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Márquez M, Muñoz M, Córdova A, Puebla M, Figueroa XF. Connexin 40-Mediated Regulation of Systemic Circulation and Arterial Blood Pressure. J Vasc Res 2023; 60:87-100. [PMID: 37331352 DOI: 10.1159/000531035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Vascular system is a complex network in which different cell types and vascular segments must work in concert to regulate blood flow distribution and arterial blood pressure. Although paracrine/autocrine signaling is involved in the regulation of vasomotor tone, direct intercellular communication via gap junctions plays a central role in the control and coordination of vascular function in the microvascular network. Gap junctions are made up by connexin (Cx) proteins, and among the four Cxs expressed in the cardiovascular system (Cx37, Cx40, Cx43, and Cx45), Cx40 has emerged as a critical signaling pathway in the vessel wall. This Cx is predominantly found in the endothelium, but it is involved in the development of the cardiovascular system and in the coordination of endothelial and smooth muscle cell function along the length of the vessels. In addition, Cx40 participates in the control of vasomotor tone through the transmission of electrical signals from the endothelium to the underlying smooth muscle and in the regulation of arterial blood pressure by renin-angiotensin system in afferent arterioles. In this review, we discuss the participation of Cx40-formed channels in the development of cardiovascular system, control and coordination of vascular function, and regulation of arterial blood pressure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mónica Márquez
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Matías Muñoz
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Alexandra Córdova
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Mariela Puebla
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Xavier F Figueroa
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
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Lozić M, Filipović N, Jurić M, Kosović I, Benzon B, Šolić I, Kelam N, Racetin A, Watanabe K, Katsuyama Y, Ogata M, Saraga-Babić M, Vukojević K. Alteration of Cx37, Cx40, Cx43, Cx45, Panx1, and Renin Expression Patterns in Postnatal Kidneys of Dab1-/- ( yotari) Mice. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:1284. [PMID: 33525532 PMCID: PMC7865779 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22031284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2020] [Revised: 01/24/2021] [Accepted: 01/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Numerous evidence corroborates roles of gap junctions/hemichannels in proper kidney development. We analyzed how Dab1 gene functional silencing influences expression and localization of Cx37, Cx40, Cx43, Cx45, Panx1 and renin in postnatal kidneys of yotari mice, by using immunohistochemistry and electron microscopy. Dab1 Δ102/221 might lead to the activation of c-Src tyrosine kinase, causing the upregulation of Cx43 in the medulla of yotari mice. The expression of renin was more prominent in yotari mice (p < 0.001). Renin granules were unusually present inside the vascular walls of glomeruli capillaries, in proximal and distal convoluted tubules and in the medulla. Disfunction of Cx40 is likely responsible for increased atypically positioned renin cells which release renin in an uncontrolled fashion, but this doesn't rule out simultaneous involvement of other Cxs, such as Cx45 which was significantly increased in the yotari cortex. The decreased Cx37 expression in yotari medulla might contribute to hypertension reduction provoked by high renin expression. These findings imply the relevance of Cxs/Panx1 as markers of impaired kidney function (high renin) in yotari mice and that they have a role in the preservation of intercellular signaling and implicate connexopathies as the cause of premature death of yotari mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirela Lozić
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, University of Split School of Medicine, 21000 Split, Croatia; (M.L.); (N.F.); (M.J.); (I.K.); (B.B.); (I.Š.); (N.K.); (A.R.); (M.S.-B.)
| | - Natalija Filipović
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, University of Split School of Medicine, 21000 Split, Croatia; (M.L.); (N.F.); (M.J.); (I.K.); (B.B.); (I.Š.); (N.K.); (A.R.); (M.S.-B.)
| | - Marija Jurić
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, University of Split School of Medicine, 21000 Split, Croatia; (M.L.); (N.F.); (M.J.); (I.K.); (B.B.); (I.Š.); (N.K.); (A.R.); (M.S.-B.)
| | - Ivona Kosović
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, University of Split School of Medicine, 21000 Split, Croatia; (M.L.); (N.F.); (M.J.); (I.K.); (B.B.); (I.Š.); (N.K.); (A.R.); (M.S.-B.)
| | - Benjamin Benzon
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, University of Split School of Medicine, 21000 Split, Croatia; (M.L.); (N.F.); (M.J.); (I.K.); (B.B.); (I.Š.); (N.K.); (A.R.); (M.S.-B.)
| | - Ivana Šolić
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, University of Split School of Medicine, 21000 Split, Croatia; (M.L.); (N.F.); (M.J.); (I.K.); (B.B.); (I.Š.); (N.K.); (A.R.); (M.S.-B.)
| | - Nela Kelam
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, University of Split School of Medicine, 21000 Split, Croatia; (M.L.); (N.F.); (M.J.); (I.K.); (B.B.); (I.Š.); (N.K.); (A.R.); (M.S.-B.)
| | - Anita Racetin
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, University of Split School of Medicine, 21000 Split, Croatia; (M.L.); (N.F.); (M.J.); (I.K.); (B.B.); (I.Š.); (N.K.); (A.R.); (M.S.-B.)
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Medicine, University of Mostar, 88000 Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Koichiro Watanabe
- Department of Anatomy, Shiga University of Medical Science, Ötsu 520-2192, Japan; (K.W.); (Y.K.)
| | - Yu Katsuyama
- Department of Anatomy, Shiga University of Medical Science, Ötsu 520-2192, Japan; (K.W.); (Y.K.)
| | - Masaki Ogata
- Division of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Tohoku Medical and Pharmaceutical University, Sendai, 981-Miyagi 8558, Japan;
| | - Mirna Saraga-Babić
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, University of Split School of Medicine, 21000 Split, Croatia; (M.L.); (N.F.); (M.J.); (I.K.); (B.B.); (I.Š.); (N.K.); (A.R.); (M.S.-B.)
| | - Katarina Vukojević
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, University of Split School of Medicine, 21000 Split, Croatia; (M.L.); (N.F.); (M.J.); (I.K.); (B.B.); (I.Š.); (N.K.); (A.R.); (M.S.-B.)
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Medicine, University of Mostar, 88000 Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina
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Wang LJ, Ma KT, Shi WY, Wang YZ, Zhao L, Chen XY, Li XZ, Jiang XW, Zhang ZS, Li L, Si JQ. Enhanced gap junctional channel activity between vascular smooth muscle cells in cerebral artery of spontaneously hypertensive rats. Clin Exp Hypertens 2017; 39:295-305. [PMID: 28513236 DOI: 10.1080/10641963.2016.1235181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
The aim of the present study is to investigate the effects of hypertension on the gap junctions between vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) in the cerebral arteries (CAs) of spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs). The functions of gap junctions in the CAs of VSMCs in SHRs and control normotensive Wistar-Kyoto (WKY) rats were studied using whole-cell patch clamp recordings and pressure myography, and the expression levels of connexins were analyzed using reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction and Western blot analyses. Whole-cell patch clamp measurements revealed that the membrane capacitance and conductance of in situ VSMCs in the CAs were significantly greater in SHRs than in WKY rats, suggesting that gap junction coupling is enhanced between VSMCs in the CAs of SHRs. Application of the endothelium-independent vasoconstrictors KCl or phenylephrine (PE) stimulated a greater vasoconstriction in the CAs of SHRs than in those of WKY rats. The EC50 value of KCl was 24.9 mM (n = 14) and 36.9 mM (n=12) for SHRs and WKY rats, respectively. The EC50 value of PE was 0.9 µM (n = 7) and 2.2 µM (n = 7) for SHRs and WKY rats, respectively. Gap junction inhibitors 18β-glycyrrhetinic acid (18β-GA), niflumic acid (NFA), and 2-aminoethoxydiphenyl borate (2-APB) attenuated KCl-induced vasoconstriction in SHRs and WKY rats. The mRNA and protein expression levels of the gap junction protein connexin 45 (Cx45) were significantly higher in the CAs of SHRs than in those of WKY rats. Phosphorylated Cx43 protein expression was significantly higher in the CAs of SHRs than in those of WKY rats, despite the total Cx43 mRNA and protein expression levels in the cerebral artery (CA) exhibiting no significant difference between SHRs and WKY rats. Increases in the expression of Cx45 and phosphorylation of Cx43 may promote gap junction communication among VSMCs in the CAs of SHRs, which may enhance the contractile response of the CA to vasoconstrictors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Jie Wang
- a Department of Physiology , Medical College of Shihezi University , Shihezi , China
| | - Ke-Tao Ma
- a Department of Physiology , Medical College of Shihezi University , Shihezi , China.,b The Key Laboratory of Xinjiang Endemic and Ethnic Diseases, Medical College of Shihezi University , Shihezi , China
| | - Wen-Yan Shi
- a Department of Physiology , Medical College of Shihezi University , Shihezi , China.,c Department of Physiology , Huazhong University of Science and Technology of Basic Medical Sciences , Wuhan , China
| | - Ying-Zi Wang
- a Department of Physiology , Medical College of Shihezi University , Shihezi , China
| | - Lei Zhao
- a Department of Physiology , Medical College of Shihezi University , Shihezi , China.,b The Key Laboratory of Xinjiang Endemic and Ethnic Diseases, Medical College of Shihezi University , Shihezi , China
| | - Xin-Yan Chen
- a Department of Physiology , Medical College of Shihezi University , Shihezi , China
| | - Xin-Zhi Li
- a Department of Physiology , Medical College of Shihezi University , Shihezi , China.,b The Key Laboratory of Xinjiang Endemic and Ethnic Diseases, Medical College of Shihezi University , Shihezi , China
| | - Xue-Wei Jiang
- a Department of Physiology , Medical College of Shihezi University , Shihezi , China
| | - Zhong-Shuang Zhang
- a Department of Physiology , Medical College of Shihezi University , Shihezi , China.,b The Key Laboratory of Xinjiang Endemic and Ethnic Diseases, Medical College of Shihezi University , Shihezi , China
| | - Li Li
- a Department of Physiology , Medical College of Shihezi University , Shihezi , China.,b The Key Laboratory of Xinjiang Endemic and Ethnic Diseases, Medical College of Shihezi University , Shihezi , China
| | - Jun-Qiang Si
- a Department of Physiology , Medical College of Shihezi University , Shihezi , China.,b The Key Laboratory of Xinjiang Endemic and Ethnic Diseases, Medical College of Shihezi University , Shihezi , China.,c Department of Physiology , Huazhong University of Science and Technology of Basic Medical Sciences , Wuhan , China.,d Department of Physiology , Wuhan University School of Basic Medical Sciences , Wuhan , China
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Zhang Z, Payne K, Pallone TL. Descending Vasa Recta Endothelial Membrane Potential Response Requires Pericyte Communication. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0154948. [PMID: 27171211 PMCID: PMC4865043 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0154948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2016] [Accepted: 04/21/2016] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Using dual-cell electrophysiological recording, we examined the routes for equilibration of membrane potential between the pericytes and endothelia that comprise the descending vasa recta (DVR) wall. We measured equilibration between pericytes in intact vessels, between pericytes and endothelium in intact vessels and between pericytes physically separated from the endothelium. Dual pericyte recording on the abluminal surface of DVR showed that both resting potential and subsequent time-dependent voltage fluctuations after vasoconstrictor stimulation remained closely equilibrated, regardless of the agonist employed (angiotensin II, vasopressin or endothelin 1). When pericytes where removed from the vessel wall but retained physical contact with one another, membrane potential responses were also highly coordinated. In contrast, responses of pericytes varied independently when they were isolated from both the endothelium and from contact with one another. When pericytes and endothelium were in contact, their resting potentials were similar and their temporal responses to stimulation were highly coordinated. After completely isolating pericytes from the endothelium, their mean resting potentials became discordant. Finally, complete endothelial isolation eliminated all membrane potential responses to angiotensin II. We conclude that cell-to-cell transmission through the endothelium is not needed for pericytes to equilibrate their membrane potentials. AngII dependent responses of DVR endothelia may originate from gap junction coupling to pericytes rather than via receptor dependent signaling in the endothelium, per se.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhong Zhang
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21201, United States of America
| | - Kristie Payne
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21201, United States of America
| | - Thomas L Pallone
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21201, United States of America
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Li L, Zhang W, Shi WY, Ma KT, Zhao L, Wang Y, Zhang L, Li XZ, Zhu H, Zhang ZS, Liu WD, Si JQ. The enhancement of Cx45 expression and function in renal interlobar artery of spontaneously hypertensive rats at different age. Kidney Blood Press Res 2016; 40:52-65. [PMID: 25791497 DOI: 10.1159/000368482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/16/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS This study was designed to investigate the expression and function of gap junction protein connexin 45 (Cx45) in renal interlobar artery (RIA) of spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR), and the association between hypertension and enhanced vasoconstrictive response in SHR. METHODS Western blot analysis and pressure myography were used to examine the differences in expression and function of Cx45 in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) of RIA between SHR and normotensive Wistar-Kyoto (WKY) rats. RESULTS Our results demonstrated that 1) whole-cell patch clamp measurements showed that the membrane capacitance and conductance of in-situ RIA VSMCs of SHR were significantly greater than those of WKY rats (p<0.05, n=6), suggesting that the coupling of gap junction between VSMCs of RIA was enhanced in SHR; 2) the KCl or phenylephrine (PE)-stimulated RIA constriction was more pronounced in SHR than that in WKY rats (p<0.05, n=10). After applying a gap junction inhibitor 18β-glycyrrhetintic acid (18β-GA), the inhibitory effect of 18β-GA on KCl or PE-induced vasoconstriction was greater in SHR (p<0.05, n=10); and 3) the expression of Cx45 in RIA of SHR was greater than that in WKY rats (p<0.05, n=3) at 4, 12 and 48 wks of age. CONCLUSIONS The hypertension-induced elevation of Cx45 may affect communication between VSMCs and coupling between VSMCs and endothelium, which results in an increased vasoconstrictive response in renal artery and might contribute to the development of hypertension.
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Gerl M, Vöckl J, Kurt B, van Veen TAB, Kurtz A, Wagner C. Inducible deletion of connexin 40 in adult mice causes hypertension and disrupts pressure control of renin secretion. Kidney Int 2015; 87:557-63. [PMID: 25229336 DOI: 10.1038/ki.2014.303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2014] [Revised: 07/17/2014] [Accepted: 07/24/2014] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Genetic loss-of-function defects of connexin 40 in renal juxtaglomerular cells are associated with renin-dependent hypertension. The dysregulation of renin secretion results from an intrarenal displacement of renin cells and an interruption of the negative feedback control of renin secretion by blood pressure. It is unknown whether this phenotype is secondary to developmental defects of juxtaglomerular renin cells due to connexin 40 malfunction, or whether acute functional defects of connexin 40 in the normal adult kidney can also lead to a similar dysregulation of renin secretion and hypertension. To address this question, we generated mice with an inducible deletion of connexin 40 in the adult kidney by crossing connexin 40-floxed mice with mice harboring a ubiquitously expressed tamoxifen-inducible Cre recombinase. Tamoxifen treatment in these mice strongly reduced connexin 40 mRNA and protein expression in the kidneys. These mice displayed persistent hypertension with renin expression shifted from the media layer of afferent arterioles to juxtaglomerular periglomerular cells. Control of renin secretion by the perfusion pressure was abolished in vitro, whereas in vivo plasma renin concentrations were increased. Thus, interruption of the connexin 40 gene in the adult kidney produced very similar changes in the renin system as had embryonic deletion. Hence, impairments of connexin 40 function in the normal adult kidney can cause renin-dependent hypertension.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melanie Gerl
- Department of Physiology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Josef Vöckl
- Department of Physiology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Birgül Kurt
- Department of Physiology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Toon A B van Veen
- Department of Medical Physiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Armin Kurtz
- Department of Physiology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Charlotte Wagner
- Department of Physiology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
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Morton SK, Chaston DJ, Howitt L, Heisler J, Nicholson BJ, Fairweather S, Bröer S, Ashton AW, Matthaei KI, Hill CE. Loss of functional endothelial connexin40 results in exercise-induced hypertension in mice. Hypertension 2015; 65:662-9. [PMID: 25547341 DOI: 10.1161/hypertensionaha.114.04578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
During activity, coordinated vasodilation of microcirculatory networks with upstream supply vessels increases blood flow to skeletal and cardiac muscles and reduces peripheral resistance. Endothelial dysfunction in humans attenuates activity-dependent vasodilation, resulting in exercise-induced hypertension in otherwise normotensive individuals. Underpinning activity-dependent hyperemia is an ascending vasodilation in which the endothelial gap junction protein, connexin (Cx)40, plays an essential role. Because exercise-induced hypertension is proposed as a forerunner to clinical hypertension, we hypothesized that endothelial disruption of Cx40 function in mice may create an animal model of this condition. To this end, we created mice in which a mutant Cx40T152A was expressed alongside wildtype Cx40 selectively in the endothelium. Expression of the Cx40T152A transgene in Xenopus oocytes and mouse coronary endothelial cells in vitro impaired both electric and chemical conductance and acted as a dominant-negative against wildtype Cx40, Cx43, and Cx45, but not Cx37. Endothelial expression of Cx40T152A in Cx40T152ATg mice attenuated ascending vasodilation, without effect on radial coupling through myoendothelial gap junctions. Using radiotelemetry, Cx40T152ATg mice showed an activity-dependent increase in blood pressure, which was significantly greater than in wildtype mice, but significantly less than in chronically hypertensive, Cx40knockout mice. The increase in heart rate with activity was also greater than in wildtype or Cx40knockout mice. We conclude that the endothelial Cx40T152A mutation attenuates activity-dependent vasodilation, producing a model of exercise-induced hypertension. These data highlight the importance of endothelial coupling through Cx40 in regulating blood pressure during activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan K Morton
- From the Eccles Institute of Neuroscience (S.K.M, D.J.C., L.H., C.E.H.) and Department of Molecular Bioscience (K.I.M.), The John Curtin School of Medical Research and Division of Biomedical Science and Biochemistry, Research School of Biology (S.F., S.B.), The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia; Department of Biochemistry, University of Texas Health Sciences Centre, San Antonio, Texas (J.H., B.J.N.); and Division of Perinatal Research, Kolling Institute of Medical Research, Royal North Shore Hospital, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia (A.W.A.)
| | - Daniel J Chaston
- From the Eccles Institute of Neuroscience (S.K.M, D.J.C., L.H., C.E.H.) and Department of Molecular Bioscience (K.I.M.), The John Curtin School of Medical Research and Division of Biomedical Science and Biochemistry, Research School of Biology (S.F., S.B.), The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia; Department of Biochemistry, University of Texas Health Sciences Centre, San Antonio, Texas (J.H., B.J.N.); and Division of Perinatal Research, Kolling Institute of Medical Research, Royal North Shore Hospital, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia (A.W.A.)
| | - Lauren Howitt
- From the Eccles Institute of Neuroscience (S.K.M, D.J.C., L.H., C.E.H.) and Department of Molecular Bioscience (K.I.M.), The John Curtin School of Medical Research and Division of Biomedical Science and Biochemistry, Research School of Biology (S.F., S.B.), The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia; Department of Biochemistry, University of Texas Health Sciences Centre, San Antonio, Texas (J.H., B.J.N.); and Division of Perinatal Research, Kolling Institute of Medical Research, Royal North Shore Hospital, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia (A.W.A.)
| | - Jillian Heisler
- From the Eccles Institute of Neuroscience (S.K.M, D.J.C., L.H., C.E.H.) and Department of Molecular Bioscience (K.I.M.), The John Curtin School of Medical Research and Division of Biomedical Science and Biochemistry, Research School of Biology (S.F., S.B.), The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia; Department of Biochemistry, University of Texas Health Sciences Centre, San Antonio, Texas (J.H., B.J.N.); and Division of Perinatal Research, Kolling Institute of Medical Research, Royal North Shore Hospital, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia (A.W.A.)
| | - Bruce J Nicholson
- From the Eccles Institute of Neuroscience (S.K.M, D.J.C., L.H., C.E.H.) and Department of Molecular Bioscience (K.I.M.), The John Curtin School of Medical Research and Division of Biomedical Science and Biochemistry, Research School of Biology (S.F., S.B.), The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia; Department of Biochemistry, University of Texas Health Sciences Centre, San Antonio, Texas (J.H., B.J.N.); and Division of Perinatal Research, Kolling Institute of Medical Research, Royal North Shore Hospital, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia (A.W.A.)
| | - Stephen Fairweather
- From the Eccles Institute of Neuroscience (S.K.M, D.J.C., L.H., C.E.H.) and Department of Molecular Bioscience (K.I.M.), The John Curtin School of Medical Research and Division of Biomedical Science and Biochemistry, Research School of Biology (S.F., S.B.), The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia; Department of Biochemistry, University of Texas Health Sciences Centre, San Antonio, Texas (J.H., B.J.N.); and Division of Perinatal Research, Kolling Institute of Medical Research, Royal North Shore Hospital, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia (A.W.A.)
| | - Stefan Bröer
- From the Eccles Institute of Neuroscience (S.K.M, D.J.C., L.H., C.E.H.) and Department of Molecular Bioscience (K.I.M.), The John Curtin School of Medical Research and Division of Biomedical Science and Biochemistry, Research School of Biology (S.F., S.B.), The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia; Department of Biochemistry, University of Texas Health Sciences Centre, San Antonio, Texas (J.H., B.J.N.); and Division of Perinatal Research, Kolling Institute of Medical Research, Royal North Shore Hospital, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia (A.W.A.)
| | - Anthony W Ashton
- From the Eccles Institute of Neuroscience (S.K.M, D.J.C., L.H., C.E.H.) and Department of Molecular Bioscience (K.I.M.), The John Curtin School of Medical Research and Division of Biomedical Science and Biochemistry, Research School of Biology (S.F., S.B.), The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia; Department of Biochemistry, University of Texas Health Sciences Centre, San Antonio, Texas (J.H., B.J.N.); and Division of Perinatal Research, Kolling Institute of Medical Research, Royal North Shore Hospital, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia (A.W.A.)
| | - Klaus I Matthaei
- From the Eccles Institute of Neuroscience (S.K.M, D.J.C., L.H., C.E.H.) and Department of Molecular Bioscience (K.I.M.), The John Curtin School of Medical Research and Division of Biomedical Science and Biochemistry, Research School of Biology (S.F., S.B.), The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia; Department of Biochemistry, University of Texas Health Sciences Centre, San Antonio, Texas (J.H., B.J.N.); and Division of Perinatal Research, Kolling Institute of Medical Research, Royal North Shore Hospital, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia (A.W.A.)
| | - Caryl E Hill
- From the Eccles Institute of Neuroscience (S.K.M, D.J.C., L.H., C.E.H.) and Department of Molecular Bioscience (K.I.M.), The John Curtin School of Medical Research and Division of Biomedical Science and Biochemistry, Research School of Biology (S.F., S.B.), The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia; Department of Biochemistry, University of Texas Health Sciences Centre, San Antonio, Texas (J.H., B.J.N.); and Division of Perinatal Research, Kolling Institute of Medical Research, Royal North Shore Hospital, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia (A.W.A.).
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Wagner C, Kurtz A. Distribution and functional relevance of connexins in renin-producing cells. Pflugers Arch 2012; 465:71-7. [DOI: 10.1007/s00424-012-1134-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2012] [Revised: 06/13/2012] [Accepted: 06/15/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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Bedner P, Steinhäuser C, Theis M. Functional redundancy and compensation among members of gap junction protein families? BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-BIOMEMBRANES 2011; 1818:1971-84. [PMID: 22044799 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamem.2011.10.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2011] [Revised: 10/08/2011] [Accepted: 10/17/2011] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Gap junctions are intercellular conduits for small molecules made up by protein subunits called connexins. A large number of connexin genes were found in mouse and man, and most cell types express several connexins, lending support to the view that redundancy and compensation among family members exist. This review gives an overview of the current knowledge on redundancy and functional compensation - or lack thereof. It takes into account the different properties of connexin subunits which comprise gap junctional intercellular channels, but also the compatibility of connexins in gap junctions. Most insight has been gained by the investigation of mice deficient for one or more connexins and transgenic mice with functional replacement of one connexin gene by another. Most single deficient mice show phenotypical alterations limited to critical developmental time points or to specific organs and tissues, while mice doubly deficient for connexins expressed in the same cell type usually show more severe phenotypical alterations. Replacement of a connexin by another connexin in some cases gave rise to rescue of phenotypical alterations of connexin deficiencies, which were restricted to specific tissues. In many tissues, connexin substitution did not restore phenotypical alterations of connexin deficiencies, indicating that connexins are specialized in function. In some cases, fatal consequences arose from the replacement. The current consensus gained from such studies is that redundancy and compensation among connexins exists at least to a limited extent. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: The Communicating junctions, composition, structure and characteristics.
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Abstract
In the adult organism, systemically circulating renin almost exclusively originates from the juxtaglomerular cells in the afferent arterioles of the kidneys. These cells share similarities with pericytes and myofibro-blasts. They store renin in a vesicular network and granules and release it in a regulated fashion. The release mode of renin is not understood; in particular, the involvement of SNARE proteins is unknown. Renin release is acutely increased via the cAMP signaling pathway, which is triggered mainly by catecholamines and other G(s)-coupled agonists, and is inhibited by calcium-related pathways that are commonly activated by vasoconstrictors. Renin release from juxtaglomerular cells is directly modulated in an inverse fashion by the blood pressure inside the afferent arterioles and by the chloride content in the tubule fluid at the macula densa segment of the distal tubule. Renin release is stimulated by nitric oxide and by prostanoids released by neighboring endothelial and macula densa cells. Steady-state renin concentrations in the plasma are determined essentially by the number of renin-producing cells in the afferent arterioles, which changes in parallel with challenges to the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Armin Kurtz
- Physiologisches Institut der Universität, Regensburg, Germany.
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Renin cells are fundamental for the control of blood pressure, fluid electrolyte homeostasis and kidney development. This review discusses recent discoveries regarding the mechanisms that control the identity and fate of renin cells and their role in the maintenance of kidney architecture and function. RECENT FINDINGS It is now established that cyclic AMP is a crucial factor for the regulation of the renin phenotype. Furthermore, additional factors such as microRNAs and gap junctions have recently emerged as key regulators for the maintenance and proper functioning of renin cells. SUMMARY Experiments described in this review will hopefully raise new questions regarding the mechanisms that control the identity, plasticity and function of renin cells.
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Castrop H, Höcherl K, Kurtz A, Schweda F, Todorov V, Wagner C. Physiology of Kidney Renin. Physiol Rev 2010; 90:607-73. [PMID: 20393195 DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00011.2009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 189] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The protease renin is the key enzyme of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone cascade, which is relevant under both physiological and pathophysiological settings. The kidney is the only organ capable of releasing enzymatically active renin. Although the characteristic juxtaglomerular position is the best known site of renin generation, renin-producing cells in the kidney can vary in number and localization. (Pro)renin gene transcription in these cells is controlled by a number of transcription factors, among which CREB is the best characterized. Pro-renin is stored in vesicles, activated to renin, and then released upon demand. The release of renin is under the control of the cAMP (stimulatory) and Ca2+(inhibitory) signaling pathways. Meanwhile, a great number of intrarenally generated or systemically acting factors have been identified that control the renin secretion directly at the level of renin-producing cells, by activating either of the signaling pathways mentioned above. The broad spectrum of biological actions of (pro)renin is mediated by receptors for (pro)renin, angiotensin II and angiotensin-( 1 – 7 ).
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Affiliation(s)
- Hayo Castrop
- Institute of Physiology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Klaus Höcherl
- Institute of Physiology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Armin Kurtz
- Institute of Physiology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Frank Schweda
- Institute of Physiology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Vladimir Todorov
- Institute of Physiology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Charlotte Wagner
- Institute of Physiology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
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Hanner F, Sorensen CM, Holstein-Rathlou NH, Peti-Peterdi J. Connexins and the kidney. Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol 2010; 298:R1143-55. [PMID: 20164205 DOI: 10.1152/ajpregu.00808.2009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 104] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Connexins (Cxs) are widely-expressed proteins that form gap junctions in most organs, including the kidney. In the renal vasculature, Cx37, Cx40, Cx43, and Cx45 are expressed, with predominant expression of Cx40 in the endothelial cells and Cx45 in the vascular smooth muscle cells. In the tubules, there is morphological evidence for the presence of gap junction plaques only in the proximal tubules. In the distal nephron, Cx30, Cx30.3, and Cx37 are expressed, but it is not known whether they form gap junctions connecting neighboring cells or whether they primarily act as hemichannels. As in other systems, the major function of Cxs in the kidney appears to be intercellular communication, although they may also form hemichannels that allow cellular secretion of large signaling molecules. Renal Cxs facilitate vascular conduction, juxtaglomerular apparatus calcium signaling, and tubular purinergic signaling. Accordingly, current evidence points to roles for these Cxs in several important regulatory mechanisms in the kidney, including the renin angiotensin system, tubuloglomerular feedback, and salt and water reabsorption. At the systemic level, renal Cxs may help regulate blood pressure and may be involved in hypertension and diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fiona Hanner
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Zilkha Neurogenetic Institute, University of Southern California, 1501 San Pablo St., Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA
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Johnstone S, Isakson B, Locke D. Biological and biophysical properties of vascular connexin channels. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2009; 278:69-118. [PMID: 19815177 PMCID: PMC2878191 DOI: 10.1016/s1937-6448(09)78002-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Intercellular channels formed by connexin proteins play a pivotal role in the direct movement of ions and larger cytoplasmic solutes between vascular endothelial cells, between vascular smooth muscle cells, and between endothelial and smooth muscle cells. Multiple genetic and epigenetic factors modulate connexin expression levels and/or channel function, including cell-type-independent and cell-type-specific transcription factors, posttranslational modifications, and localized membrane targeting. Additionally, differences in protein-protein interactions, including those between connexins, significantly contribute to both vascular homeostasis and disease progression. The biophysical properties of the connexin channels identified in the vasculature, those formed by Cx37, Cx40, Cx43 and/or Cx45 proteins, are discussed in this chapter in the physiological and pathophysiological context of vessel function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott Johnstone
- Robert M. Berne Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 29908
| | - Brant Isakson
- Robert M. Berne Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 29908
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biological Physics, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 29908
| | - Darren Locke
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, New Jersey Medical School, University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey, Newark, NJ 07103
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