A2 adenosine receptors inhibit calcium influx through L-type calcium channels in rod photoreceptors of the salamander retina

Circadian clock organization in the retina: From clock components to rod and cone pathways and visual function

Circadian (24-h) clocks are cell-autonomous biological oscillators that orchestrate many aspects of our physiology on a daily basis. Numerous circadian rhythms in mammalian and non-mammalian retinas have been observed and the presence of an endogenous circadian clock has been demonstrated. However, how the clock and associated rhythms assemble into pathways that support and control retina function remains largely unknown. Our goal here is to review the current status of our knowledge and evaluate recent advances. We describe many previously-observed retinal rhythms, including circadian rhythms of morphology, biochemistry, physiology, and gene expression. We evaluate evidence concerning the location and molecular machinery of the retinal circadian clock, as well as consider findings that suggest the presence of multiple clocks. Our primary focus though is to describe in depth circadian rhythms in the light responses of retinal neurons with an emphasis on clock control of rod and cone pathways. We examine evidence that specific biochemical mechanisms produce these daily light response changes. We also discuss evidence for the presence of multiple circadian retinal pathways involving rhythms in neurotransmitter activity, transmitter receptors, metabolism, and pH. We focus on distinct actions of two dopamine receptor systems in the outer retina, a dopamine D4 receptor system that mediates circadian control of rod/cone gap junction coupling and a dopamine D1 receptor system that mediates non-circadian, light/dark adaptive regulation of gap junction coupling between horizontal cells. Finally, we evaluate the role of circadian rhythmicity in retinal degeneration and suggest future directions for the field of retinal circadian biology.

Adenosine A2A Receptor: A New Neuroprotective Target in Light-Induced Retinal Degeneration

Continuous illumination induces the degeneration of photoreceptors. This animal model of light-induced retinal degeneration resembles many characteristics of human degenerative diseases of the outer retina, such as age-related macular degeneration. This work aimed to evaluate the potential neuroprotective effect of the modulation of adenosine A2A receptor in the model of light-induced retinal degeneration. Sprague-Dawley rats were intravitreally injected in the right eye with either CGS 21680, an adenosine A2A receptor agonist, or SCH 58261, an adenosine A2A receptor antagonist. Contralateral eyes were injected with respective vehicles as control. Then, rats were subjected to continuous illumination (12,000 lux) for 24 h. Retinas were processed by glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) immunohistochemistry, terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) technique, Western blotting (WB), and quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Another group of rats was subjected to functional studies by electroretinography. Animals treated with CGS21680 showed a significant increase of apoptotic nuclei in the outer nuclear layer and a significant increase of GFAP immunoreactive area of the retinas but did not alter WB nor electroretinography results. qRT-PCR showed that CGS 21680 significantly increased the expression of interleukin-1β. On the opposite, SCH 58261 significantly decreased apoptotic nuclei in the outer nuclear layer and GFAP immunoreactive area of the retinas. It also significantly decreased GFAP and activated caspase-3 levels as measured by WB and preserved retinal function, as treated eyes showed significantly greater amplitudes of a- and b-waves and oscillatory potentials. qRT-PCR revealed that SCH 58261 significantly decreased the expression of tumor necrosis factor-α. These results show that the blockade of the A2A receptor before the start of the pathogenic process is neuroprotective, as it prevents light-induced retinal damage. The use of A2A receptor antagonists deserves to be evaluated in retinal degenerative diseases.

Cannabinoids Regulate Sensory Processing in Early Olfactory and Visual Neural Circuits

Our sensory systems such as the olfactory and visual systems are the target of neuromodulatory regulation. This neuromodulation starts at the level of sensory receptors and extends into cortical processing. A relatively new group of neuromodulators includes cannabinoids. These form a group of chemical substances that are found in the cannabis plant. Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) are the main cannabinoids. THC acts in the brain and nervous system like the chemical substances that our body produces, the endogenous cannabinoids or endocannabinoids, also nicknamed the brain's own cannabis. While the function of the endocannabinoid system is understood fairly well in limbic structures such as the hippocampus and the amygdala, this signaling system is less well understood in the olfactory pathway and the visual system. Here, we describe and compare endocannabinoids as signaling molecules in the early processing centers of the olfactory and visual system, the olfactory bulb, and the retina, and the relevance of the endocannabinoid system for synaptic plasticity.

A Circadian Clock in the Retina Regulates Rod-Cone Gap Junction Coupling and Neuronal Light Responses via Activation of Adenosine A2A Receptors

Adenosine, a major neuromodulator in the central nervous system (CNS), is involved in a variety of regulatory functions such as the sleep/wake cycle. Because exogenous adenosine displays dark- and night-mimicking effects in the vertebrate retina, we tested the hypothesis that a circadian (24 h) clock in the retina uses adenosine to control neuronal light responses and information processing. Using a variety of techniques in the intact goldfish retina including measurements of adenosine overflow and content, tracer labeling, and electrical recording of the light responses of cone photoreceptor cells and cone horizontal cells (cHCs), which are post-synaptic to cones, we demonstrate that a circadian clock in the retina itself-but not activation of melatonin or dopamine receptors-controls extracellular and intracellular adenosine levels so that they are highest during the subjective night. Moreover, the results show that the clock increases extracellular adenosine at night by enhancing adenosine content so that inward adenosine transport ceases. Also, we report that circadian clock control of endogenous cone adenosine A_2A receptor activation increases rod-cone gap junction coupling and rod input to cones and cHCs at night. These results demonstrate that adenosine and A_2A receptor activity are controlled by a circadian clock in the retina, and are used by the clock to modulate rod-cone electrical synapses and the sensitivity of cones and cHCs to very dim light stimuli. Moreover, the adenosine system represents a separate circadian-controlled pathway in the retina that is independent of the melatonin/dopamine pathway but which nevertheless acts in concert to enhance the day/night difference in rod-cone coupling.

Voltage- and calcium-gated ion channels of neurons in the vertebrate retina

In this review, we summarize studies investigating the types and distribution of voltage- and calcium-gated ion channels in the different classes of retinal neurons: rods, cones, horizontal cells, bipolar cells, amacrine cells, interplexiform cells, and ganglion cells. We discuss differences among cell subtypes within these major cell classes, as well as differences among species, and consider how different ion channels shape the responses of different neurons. For example, even though second-order bipolar and horizontal cells do not typically generate fast sodium-dependent action potentials, many of these cells nevertheless possess fast sodium currents that can enhance their kinetic response capabilities. Ca2+ channel activity can also shape response kinetics as well as regulating synaptic release. The L-type Ca2+ channel subtype, CaV1.4, expressed in photoreceptor cells exhibits specific properties matching the particular needs of these cells such as limited inactivation which allows sustained channel activity and maintained synaptic release in darkness. The particular properties of K+ and Cl- channels in different retinal neurons shape resting membrane potentials, response kinetics and spiking behavior. A remaining challenge is to characterize the specific distributions of ion channels in the more than 100 individual cell types that have been identified in the retina and to describe how these particular ion channels sculpt neuronal responses to assist in the processing of visual information by the retina.

Adenosine receptor expression in the adult zebrafish retina

Adenosine is an endogenous nucleoside in the central nervous system that acts on adenosine receptors. These are G protein-coupled receptors that have four known subtypes: A1, A2A, A2B, and A3 receptors. In the present study, we aimed to map the location of the adenosine receptor subtypes in adult wild-type zebrafish retina using in situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry. A1R, A2AR, and A2BR mRNA were detected in the ganglion cell layer (GCL), the inner nuclear layer (INL), the outer nuclear layer (ONL), and the outer segment (OS). A3R mRNA was detected in the GCL, ONL, and OS. A1R-immunoreactivity was expressed as puncta in the INL and in the outer plexiform layer (OPL). A1Rs were located within the cone pedicle and contiguous to horizontal cell tips in the OPL. A2AR-immunoreactivity was expressed as puncta in the GCL, inner plexiform layer (IPL), INL, and outer retina. A2AR puncta in the outer retina were situated around the ellipsoids and nuclei of cones, and weakly around the rod nuclei. A1Rs and A2ARs were clustered around ON cone bipolar cell terminals and present in the OFF lamina of the INL but were not expressed on mixed rod/cone response bipolar cell terminals. A2BR-immunoreactivity was mainly localized to the Müller cells, while A3Rs were found to be expressed in retinal ganglion cells of the GCL, INL, ONL, and OS. In summary, all four adenosine receptor subtypes were localized in the zebrafish retina and are in agreement with expression patterns shown in retinas from other species.

The expression of adenosine receptors changes throughout light induced retinal degeneration in the rat

The modulation of adenosine receptors, A1 (A1R) and A2A (A2AR), is neuroprotective in different models of retinal injury. In order to understand the processes underlying retinal degeneration, we studied the expression of adenosine receptors in the retinas of control and continuously illuminated (CI) rats by qRT-PCR, Western blot (WB) and immunohistochemistry (IHC). Significant increases of A1R, A2AR, and A2BR mRNAs at 1, 5, and 7 days of CI (P < 0.0001) were observed by qRT-PCR. Also, a significant increase of A3R mRNA was detected after 5 and 7 days of CI. WB studies showed a significant rise of A1R on day 1 of CI and on days 5 and 7 (P < 0.0001), while A2AR increase was seen from 2 days of CI on (P < 0.001). After 1 day of CI, A1R immunoreactivity (A1R-IR) increased in ganglion cell layer, inner nuclear layer, and in both the outer and inner plexiform layers. After 2 days of CI, the A1R-IR went back to control levels. After 5 days of CI, a second rise in A1R, which persisted until 7 days of CI, was measured (P < 0.0001). A significant rise of A2aR immunoreactivity was also observed at day 2 of CI at GCL and INL and subsided at days 5 and 7 (P < 0.0001). The observed up-regulation of A1R after 1 day of CI, corresponds with the peak of oxidative stress; while the rise of A2aR at day 2 of CI, coincides with the massive apoptosis of photoreceptors. We postulate that an early modulation of adenosine receptors could delay or prevent the degeneration of photoreceptors.

Ca2+-mitochondria axis drives cell division in hematopoietic stem cells

Most of the hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) within the bone marrow (BM) show quiescent state with a low mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨ_m). In contrast, upon stress hematopoiesis, HSCs actively start to divide. However, the underlying mechanism for the initiation of HSC division still remains unclear. To elucidate the mechanism underlying the transition of cell cycle state in HSCs, we analyzed the change of mitochondria in HSCs after BM suppression induced by 5-fluoruracil (5-FU). We found that HSCs initiate cell division after exhibiting enhanced ΔΨ_m as a result of increased intracellular Ca²⁺ level. Although further activation of Ca²⁺-mitochondria pathway led to loss of HSCs after cell division, the appropriate suppression of intracellular Ca²⁺ level by exogenous adenosine or Nifedipine, a Ca²⁺ channel blocker, prolonged cell division interval in HSCs, and simultaneously achieved both cell division and HSC maintenance. Collectively, our results indicate that the Ca²⁺-mitochondria pathway induces HSC division critically to determine HSC cell fate.

Adenosine A1 receptor: A neuroprotective target in light induced retinal degeneration

Light induced retinal degeneration (LIRD) is a useful model that resembles human retinal degenerative diseases. The modulation of adenosine A1 receptor is neuroprotective in different models of retinal injury. The aim of this work was to evaluate the potential neuroprotective effect of the modulation of A1 receptor in LIRD. The eyes of rats intravitreally injected with N6-cyclopentyladenosine (CPA), an A1 agonist, which were later subjected to continuous illumination (CI) for 24 h, showed retinas with a lower number of apoptotic nuclei and a decrease of Glial Fibrillary Acidic Protein (GFAP) immunoreactive area than controls. Lower levels of activated Caspase 3 and GFAP were demonstrated by Western Blot (WB) in treated animals. Also a decrease of iNOS, TNFα and GFAP mRNA was demonstrated by RT-PCR. A decrease of Iba 1⁺/MHC-II⁺ reactive microglial cells was shown by immunohistochemistry. Electroretinograms (ERG) showed higher amplitudes of a-wave, b-wave and oscillatory potentials after CI compared to controls. Conversely, the eyes of rats intravitreally injected with dipropylcyclopentylxanthine (DPCPX), an A1 antagonist, and subjected to CI for 24 h, showed retinas with a higher number of apoptotic nuclei and an increase of GFAP immunoreactive area compared to controls. Also, higher levels of activated Caspase 3 and GFAP were demonstrated by Western Blot. The mRNA levels of iNOS, nNOS and inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β and TNFα) were not modified by DPCPX treatment. An increase of Iba 1⁺/MHC-II⁺ reactive microglial cells was shown by immunohistochemistry. ERG showed that the amplitudes of a-wave, b-wave, and oscillatory potentials after CI were similar to control values. A single pharmacological intervention prior illumination stress was able to swing retinal fate in opposite directions: CPA was neuroprotective, while DPCPX worsened retinal damage. In summary, A1 receptor agonism is a plausible neuroprotective strategy in LIRD.

Retinal A2A and A3 adenosine receptors modulate the components of the rat electroretinogram

Adenosine is a neuromodulator present in various areas of the central nervous system, including the retina. Adenosine may serve a neuroprotective role in the retina, based on electroretinogram (ERG) recordings from the rat retina. Our purpose was to assess the role of A2A and A3 adenosine receptors in the generation and modulation of the rat ERG. The flash ERG was recorded with corneal electrodes from Sprague Dawley rats. Agonists and antagonists for A2A and A3 receptors, and adenosine were injected (5 µl) into the vitreous. The effects on the components of the single flash scotopic and photopic ERGs were examined, and ERG flicker. Adenosine (0.5 mM) increased the mean amplitudes of the scotopic ERG a-waves (68 ± 8 to 97 ± 14 µV, P = 0.042), and b-waves (236 ± 38 µV to 305 ± 42 µV). A2A agonist CGS21680 (2 mM) reduced the mean amplitude of the ERG b-wave, from 298 ± 21 µV in response to the brightest stimulus to 212 ± 19 µV (P = 0.005), and mean scotopic oscillatory potentials (OPs) from 100 ± 9 µV to 47 ± 11 µV (P = 0.023). ZM241385 [4 mM], an A2A antagonist, decreased the scotopic b-wave of the ERG. A3 agonist 2-CI-IB-MECA (0.5 mM) increased the a-wave, while decreasing the scotopic and photopic ERG b-waves, and the scotopic OPs. A3 antagonist VUF5574 (1 mM) increased the mean amplitude of the scotopic a-wave (66 ± 8 to 140 ± 29 µV, P = 0.046) and b-wave (224 ± 20 to 312 ± 39 µV, P = 0.0037). No significant effects on ERG flicker were found. We conclude that retinal neurons containing A2A and/or A3 adenosine receptors contribute to the generation of the ERG a- and b-waves and OPs.

A Presynaptic Group III mGluR Recruits Gβγ/SNARE Interactions to Inhibit Synaptic Transmission by Cone Photoreceptors in the Vertebrate Retina

G-protein βγ subunits (Gβγ) interact with presynaptic proteins and regulate neurotransmitter release downstream of Ca²⁺ influx. To accomplish their roles in sensory signaling, photoreceptor synapses use specialized presynaptic proteins that support neurotransmission at active zone structures known as ribbons. While several G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) influence synaptic transmission at ribbon synapses of cones and other retinal neurons, it is unknown whether Gβγ contributes to these effects. We tested whether activation of one particular GPCR, a metabotropic glutamate receptor (mGluR), can reduce cone synaptic transmission via Gβγ in tiger salamander retinas. In recordings from horizontal cells, we found that an mGluR agonist (L-AP4) reduced cone-driven light responses and mEPSC frequency. In paired recordings of cones and horizontal cells, L-AP4 slightly reduced cone I_Ca (∼10%) and caused a larger reduction in cone-driven EPSCs (∼30%). Proximity ligation assay revealed direct interactions between SNAP-25 and Gβγ subunits in retinal synaptic layers. Pretreatment with the SNAP-25 cleaving protease BoNT/A inhibited L-AP4 effects on synaptic transmission, as did introduction of a peptide derived from the SNAP-25 C terminus. Introducing Gβγ subunits directly into cones reduced EPSC amplitude. This effect was inhibited by BoNT/A, supporting a role for Gβγ/SNAP-25 interactions. However, the mGluR-dependent reduction in I_Ca was not mimicked by Gβγ, indicating that this effect was independent of Gβγ. The finding that synaptic transmission at cone ribbon synapses is regulated by Gβγ/SNAP-25 interactions indicates that these mechanisms are shared by conventional and ribbon-type synapses. Gβγ liberated from other photoreceptor GPCRs is also likely to regulate synaptic transmission.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Dynamic regulation of synaptic transmission by presynaptic G-protein coupled receptors shapes information flow through neural circuits. At the first synapse in the visual system, presynaptic metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluRs) regulate cone photoreceptor synaptic transmission, although the mechanisms and functional impact of this are unclear. We show that mGluRs regulate light response encoding across the cone synapse, accomplished in part by triggering G-protein βγ subunits (Gβγ) interactions with SNAP-25, a core component of the synaptic vesicle fusion machinery. In addition to revealing a role in visual processing, this provides the first demonstration that Gβγ/SNAP-25 interactions regulate synaptic function at a ribbon-type synapse, contributing to an emerging picture of the ubiquity of Gβγ/SNARE interactions in regulating synaptic transmission throughout the nervous system.

Lidocaine relaxation in isolated rat aortic rings is enhanced by endothelial removal: possible role of Kv, KATP channels and A2a receptor crosstalk

BACKGROUND

Lidocaine is an approved local anesthetic and Class 1B antiarrhythmic with a number of ancillary properties. Our aim was to investigate lidocaine's vasoreactivity properties in intact versus denuded rat thoracic aortic rings, and the effect of inhibitors of nitric oxide (NO), prostenoids, voltage-dependent Kv and KATP channels, membrane Na+/K+ pump, and A2a and A2b receptors.

METHODS

Aortic rings were harvested from adult male Sprague Dawley rats and equilibrated in an organ bath containing oxygenated, modified Krebs-Henseleit solution, pH 7.4, 37 °C. The rings were pre-contracted sub-maximally with 0.3 μM norepinephrine (NE), and the effect of increasing lidocaine concentrations was examined. Rings were tested for viability after each experiment with maximally dilating 100 μM papaverine. The drugs 4-aminopyridine (4-AP), glibenclamide, 5-hydroxydecanoate, ouabain, 8-(3-chlorostyryl) caffeine and PSB-0788 were examined.

RESULTS

All drugs tested had no significant effect on basal tension. Lidocaine relaxation in intact rings was biphasic between 1 and 10 μM (Phase 1) and 10 and 1000 μM (Phase 2). Mechanical removal of the endothelium resulted in further relaxation, and at lower concentrations ring sensitivity (% relaxation per μM lidocaine) significantly increased 3.5 times compared to intact rings. The relaxing factor(s) responsible for enhancing ring relaxation did not appear to be NO- or prostacyclin-dependent, as L-NAME and indomethacin had little or no effect on intact ring relaxation. In denuded rings, lidocaine relaxation was completely abolished by Kv channel inhibition and significantly reduced by antagonists of the MitoKATP channel, and to a lesser extent the SarcKATP channel. Curiously, A2a subtype receptor antagonism significantly inhibited lidocaine relaxation above 100 μM, but not the A2b receptor.

CONCLUSIONS

We show that lidocaine relaxation in rat thoracic aorta was biphasic and significantly enhanced by endothelial removal, which did not appear to be NO or prostacyclin dependent. The unknown factor(s) responsible for enhanced relaxation was significantly reduced by Kv inhibition, 5-HD inhibition, and A2a subtype inhibition indicating a potential role for crosstalk in lidocaine's vasoreactivity.

Caffeine exposure alters adenosine system and neurochemical markers during retinal development

Evidence points to beneficial properties of caffeine in the adult central nervous system, but teratogenic effects have also been reported. Caffeine exerts most of its effects by antagonizing adenosine receptors, especially A1 and A2A subtypes. In this study, we evaluated the role of caffeine on the expression of components of the adenosinergic system in the developing avian retina and the impact of caffeine exposure upon specific markers for classical neurotransmitter systems. Caffeine exposure (5-30 mg/kg by in ovo injection) to 14-day-old chick embryos increased the expression of A1 receptors and concomitantly decreased A2A adenosine receptors expression after 48 h. Accordingly, caffeine (30 mg/kg) increased [(3) H]-8-cyclopentyl-1,3-dipropylxanthine (A1 antagonist) binding and reduced [(3) H]-ZM241385 (A2A antagonist) binding. The caffeine time-response curve demonstrated a reduction in A1 receptors 6 h after injection, but an increase after 18 and 24 h. In contrast, caffeine exposure increased the expression of A2A receptors from 18 and 24 h. Kinetic assays of [(3) H]-S-(4-nitrobenzyl)-6-thioinosine binding to the equilibrative adenosine transporter ENT1 revealed an increase in Bmax with no changes in Kd , an effect accompanied by an increase in adenosine uptake. Immunohistochemical analysis showed a decrease in retinal content of tyrosine hydroxylase, calbindin and choline acetyltransferase, but not Brn3a, after 48 h of caffeine injection. Furthermore, retinas exposed to caffeine had increased levels of phosphorylated extracellular signal-regulated kinase and cAMP-response element binding protein. Overall, we show an in vivo regulation of the adenosine system, extracellular signal-regulated kinase and cAMP-response element binding protein function and protein expression of specific neurotransmitter systems by caffeine in the developing retina. The beneficial or maleficent effects of caffeine have been demonstrated by the work of different studies. It is known that during animal development, caffeine can exert harmful effects, impairing the correct formation of CNS structures. In this study, we demonstrated cellular and tissue effects of caffeine's administration on developing chick embryo retinas. Those effects include modulation of adenosine receptors (A1 , A2 ) content, increasing in cAMP response element-binding protein (pCREB) and extracellular signal-regulated kinase phosphorylation (pERK), augment of adenosine equilibrative transporter content/activity, and a reduction of some specific cell subpopulations. ENT1, Equilibrative nucleoside transporter 1.

Weak endogenous Ca2+ buffering supports sustained synaptic transmission by distinct mechanisms in rod and cone photoreceptors in salamander retina

Differences in synaptic transmission between rod and cone photoreceptors contribute to different response kinetics in rod- versus cone-dominated visual pathways. We examined Ca²⁺ dynamics in synaptic terminals of tiger salamander photoreceptors under conditions that mimicked endogenous buffering to determine the influence on kinetically and mechanistically distinct components of synaptic transmission. Measurements of I_Cl(Ca) confirmed that endogenous Ca²⁺ buffering is equivalent to ˜0.05 mmol/L EGTA in rod and cone terminals. Confocal imaging showed that with such buffering, depolarization stimulated large, spatially unconstrained [Ca²⁺] increases that spread throughout photoreceptor terminals. We calculated immediately releasable pool (IRP) size and release efficiency in rods by deconvolving excitatory postsynaptic currents and presynaptic Ca²⁺ currents. Peak efficiency of ˜0.2 vesicles/channel was similar to that of cones (˜0.3 vesicles/channel). Efficiency in both cell types was not significantly affected by using weak endogenous Ca²⁺ buffering. However, weak Ca²⁺ buffering speeded Ca²⁺/calmodulin (CaM)-dependent replenishment of vesicles to ribbons in both rods and cones, thereby enhancing sustained release. In rods, weak Ca²⁺ buffering also amplified sustained release by enhancing CICR and CICR-stimulated release of vesicles at nonribbon sites. By contrast, elevating [Ca²⁺] at nonribbon sites in cones with weak Ca²⁺ buffering and by inhibiting Ca²⁺ extrusion did not trigger additional release, consistent with the notion that exocytosis from cones occurs exclusively at ribbons. The presence of weak endogenous Ca²⁺ buffering in rods and cones facilitates slow, sustained exocytosis by enhancing Ca²⁺/CaM-dependent replenishment of ribbons in both rods and cones and by stimulating nonribbon release triggered by CICR in rods.

Adenosine transporters and receptors: key elements for retinal function and neuroprotection

Adenosine is an important neuroactive substance in the central nervous system, including in the retina where subclasses of adenosine receptors and transporters are expressed since early stages of development. Here, we review some evidence showing that adenosine plays important functions in the mature as well as in the developing tissue. Adenosine transporters are divided into equilibrative and concentrative, and the major transporter subtype present in the retina is the ENT1. This transporter is responsible for a bidirectional transport of adenosine and the uptake or release of this nucleoside appears to be regulated by different signaling pathways that are also controlled by activation of adenosine receptors. Adenosine receptors are also key players in retina physiology regulating a variety of functions in the mature and developing tissue. Regulation of excitatory neurotransmitter release and neuroprotection are the main functions played be adenosine in the mature tissue, while regulation of cell survival and neurogenesis are some of the functions played by adenosine in developing retina. Since adenosine is neuroprotective against excitotoxic and metabolic dysfunctions observed in neurological and ocular diseases, the search for adenosine-related drugs regulating adenosine transporters and receptors can be important for advancement of therapeutic strategies against these diseases.

Regulation of photoreceptor gap junction phosphorylation by adenosine in zebrafish retina

Electrical coupling of photoreceptors through gap junctions suppresses voltage noise, routes rod signals into cone pathways, expands the dynamic range of rod photoreceptors in high scotopic and mesopic illumination, and improves detection of contrast and small stimuli. In essentially all vertebrates, connexin 35/36 (gene homologs Cx36 in mammals, Cx35 in other vertebrates) is the major gap junction protein observed in photoreceptors, mediating rod-cone, cone-cone, and possibly rod-rod communication. Photoreceptor coupling is dynamically controlled by the day/night cycle and light/dark adaptation, and is directly correlated with phosphorylation of Cx35/36 at two sites, serine110 and serine 276/293 (homologous sites in teleost fish and mammals, respectively). Activity of protein kinase A (PKA) plays a key role during this process. Previous studies have shown that activation of dopamine D4 receptors on photoreceptors inhibits adenylyl cyclase, down-regulates cAMP and PKA activity, and leads to photoreceptor uncoupling, imposing the daytime/light condition. In this study, we explored the role of adenosine, a nighttime signal with a high extracellular concentration at night and a low concentration in the day, in regulating photoreceptor coupling by examining photoreceptor Cx35 phosphorylation in zebrafish retina. Adenosine enhanced photoreceptor Cx35 phosphorylation in daytime, but with a complex dose-response curve. Selective pharmacological manipulations revealed that adenosine A2a receptors provide a potent positive drive to phosphorylate photoreceptor Cx35 under the influence of endogenous adenosine at night. A2a receptors can be activated in the daytime as well by micromolar exogenous adenosine. However, the higher affinity adenosine A1 receptors are also present and have an antagonistic though less potent effect. Thus, the nighttime/darkness signal adenosine provides a net positive drive on Cx35 phosphorylation at night, working in opposition to dopamine to regulate photoreceptor coupling via a push-pull mechanism. However, the lower concentration of adenosine present in the daytime actually reinforces the dopamine signal through action on the A1 receptor.

Adenosine modulates light responses of rat retinal ganglion cell photoreceptors througha cAMP-mediated pathway

Adenosine is an established neuromodulator in the mammalian retina, with A1 adenosine receptors being especially prevalent in the innermost ganglion cell layer. Activation of A1 receptors causes inhibition of adenylate cyclase, decreases in intracellular cyclic AMP (cAMP) levels and inhibition of protein kinase A (PKA). In this work, our aim was to characterize the effects of adenosine on the light responses of intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs) and to determine whether these photoreceptors are subject to neuromodulation through intracellular cAMP-related signalling pathways. Using multielectrode array recordings from postnatal and adult rat retinas, we demonstrated that adenosine significantly shortened the duration of ipRGC photoresponses and reduced the number of light-evoked spikes fired by these neurons. The effects were A1 adenosine receptor-mediated, and the expression of this receptor on melanopsin-containing ipRGCs was confirmed by calcium imaging experiments on isolated cells in purified cultures. While inhibition of the cAMP/PKA pathway by adenosine shortened ipRGC light responses, stimulation of this pathway with compounds such as forskolin had the opposite effect and lengthened the duration of ipRGC spiking. Our findings reveal that the modification of ipRGC photoresponses through a cAMP/PKA pathway is a general feature of rat ganglion cell photoreceptors, and this pathway can be inhibited through activation of A1 receptors by adenosine. As adenosine levels in the retina rise at night, adenosinergic modulation of ipRGCs may serve as an internal regulatory mechanism to limit transmission of nocturnal photic signals by ipRGCs to the brain. Targeting retinal A1 adenosine receptors for ipRGC inhibition represents a potential therapeutic target for sleep disorders and migraine-associated photophobia.

Adenosine and dopamine receptors coregulate photoreceptor coupling via gap junction phosphorylation in mouse retina

Gap junctions in retinal photoreceptors suppress voltage noise and facilitate input of rod signals into the cone pathway during mesopic vision. These synapses are highly plastic and regulated by light and circadian clocks. Recent studies have revealed an important role for connexin36 (Cx36) phosphorylation by protein kinase A (PKA) in regulating cell-cell coupling. Dopamine is a light-adaptive signal in the retina, causing uncoupling of photoreceptors via D4 receptors (D4R), which inhibit adenylyl cyclase (AC) and reduce PKA activity. We hypothesized that adenosine, with its extracellular levels increasing in darkness, may serve as a dark signal to coregulate photoreceptor coupling through modulation of gap junction phosphorylation. Both D4R and A2a receptor (A2aR) mRNAs were present in photoreceptors, inner nuclear layer neurons, and ganglion cells in C57BL/6 mouse retina, and showed cyclic expression with partially overlapping rhythms. Pharmacologically activating A2aR or inhibiting D4R in light-adapted daytime retina increased photoreceptor coupling. Cx36 among photoreceptor terminals, representing predominantly rod-cone gap junctions but possibly including some rod-rod and cone-cone gap junctions, was phosphorylated in a PKA-dependent manner by the same treatments. Conversely, inhibiting A2aR or activating D4R in daytime dark-adapted retina decreased Cx36 phosphorylation with similar PKA dependence. A2a-deficient mouse retina showed defective regulation of photoreceptor gap junction phosphorylation, fairly regular dopamine release, and moderately downregulated expression of D4R and AC type 1 mRNA. We conclude that adenosine and dopamine coregulate photoreceptor coupling through opposite action on the PKA pathway and Cx36 phosphorylation. In addition, loss of the A2aR hampered D4R gene expression and function.

Association of shank 1A scaffolding protein with cone photoreceptor terminals in the mammalian retina

Photoreceptor terminals contain post-synaptic density (PSD) proteins e.g., PSD-95/PSD-93, but their role at photoreceptor synapses is not known. PSDs are generally restricted to post-synaptic boutons in central neurons and form scaffolding with multiple proteins that have structural and functional roles in neuronal signaling. The Shank family of proteins (Shank 1–3) functions as putative anchoring proteins for PSDs and is involved in the organization of cytoskeletal/signaling complexes in neurons. Specifically, Shank 1 is restricted to neurons and interacts with both receptors and signaling molecules at central neurons to regulate plasticity. However, it is not known whether Shank 1 is expressed at photoreceptor terminals. In this study we have investigated Shank 1A localization in the outer retina at photoreceptor terminals. We find that Shank 1A is expressed presynaptically in cone pedicles, but not rod spherules, and it is absent from mice in which the Shank 1 gene is deleted. Shank 1A co-localizes with PSD-95, peanut agglutinin, a marker of cone terminals, and glycogen phosphorylase, a cone specific marker. These findings provide convincing evidence for Shank 1A expression in both the inner and outer plexiform layers, and indicate a potential role for PSD-95/Shank 1 complexes at cone synapses in the outer retina.

Expression of A1 adenosine receptors in the developing avian retina: in vivo modulation by A(2A) receptors and endogenous adenosine

Little is known about the mechanisms that regulate the expression of adenosine receptors during CNS development. We demonstrate here that retinas from chick embryos injected in ovo with selective adenosine receptor ligands show changes in A1 receptor expression after 48 h. Exposure to A1 agonist N⁶-cyclohexyladenosine (CHA) or antagonist 8-Cyclopentyl-1, 3-dipropylxanthine (DPCPX) reduced or increased, respectively, A1 receptor protein and [³H]DPCPX binding, but together, CHA+DPCPX had no effect. Interestingly, treatment with A(2A) agonist 3-[4-[2-[[6-amino-9-[(2R,3R,4S,5S)-5-(ethylcarbamoyl)-3,4-dihydroxy-oxolan-2-yl]purin-2-yl]amino] ethyl]phenyl] propanoic acid (CGS21680) increased A1 receptor protein and [³H]DPCPX binding, and reduced A(2A) receptors. The A(2A) antagonists 7-(2-phenylethyl)-5-amino-2-(2-furyl)-pyrazolo-[4,3-e]-1,2,4-trizolo[1,5-c] pyrimidine (SCH58261) and 4-(2-[7-amino-2-[2-furyl][1,2,4]triazolo[2,3-a][1,3,5]triazo-5-yl-amino]ethyl)phenol (ZM241385) had opposite effects on A1 receptor expression. Exposure to CGS21680 + CHA did not change A1 receptor levels, whereas CHA + ZM241385 or CGS21680 + DPCPX had no synergic effect. The blockade of adenosine transporter with S-(4-nitrobenzyl)-6-thioinosine (NBMPR) also reduced [³H]DPCPX binding, an effect blocked by DPCPX, but not enhanced by ZM241385. [³H]DPCPX binding kinetics showed that treatment with CHA reduced and CGS21680 increased the Bmax, but did not affect Kd values. CHA, DPCPX, CGS21680, and ZM241385 had no effect on A1 receptor mRNA. These data demonstrated an in vivo regulation of A1 receptor expression by endogenous adenosine or long-term treatment with A1 and A(2A) receptors modulators.

Photoreceptor coupling is controlled by connexin 35 phosphorylation in zebrafish retina

Electrical coupling of neurons is widespread throughout the CNS and is observed among retinal photoreceptors from essentially all vertebrates. Coupling dampens voltage noise in photoreceptors and rod-cone coupling provides a means for rod signals to enter the cone pathway, extending the dynamic range of rod-mediated vision. This coupling is dynamically regulated by a circadian rhythm and light adaptation. We examined the molecular mechanism that controls photoreceptor coupling in zebrafish retina. Connexin 35 (homologous to Cx36 of mammals) was found at both cone-cone and rod-cone gap junctions. Photoreceptors showed strong Neurobiotin tracer coupling at night, extensively labeling the network of cones. Tracer coupling was significantly reduced in the daytime, showing a 20-fold lower diffusion coefficient for Neurobiotin transfer. The phosphorylation state of Cx35 at two regulatory phosphorylation sites, Ser110 and Ser276, was directly related to tracer coupling. Phosphorylation was high at night and low during the day. Protein kinase A (PKA) activity directly controlled both phosphorylation state and tracer coupling. Both were significantly increased in the day by pharmacological activation of PKA and significantly reduced at night by inhibition of PKA. The data are consistent with direct phosphorylation of Cx35 by PKA. We conclude that the magnitude of photoreceptor coupling is controlled by the dynamic phosphorylation and dephosphorylation of Cx35. Furthermore, the nighttime state is characterized by extensive coupling that results in a well connected cone network.

Adenosine suppresses exocytosis from cone terminals of the salamander retina

In the retina, adenosine is released in the dark and has been shown to inhibit Ca2+ influx through voltage-gated Ca2+ channels in cones. Therefore, we tested whether adenosine can inhibit exocytosis from isolated cone photoreceptors. Simultaneous measurements of membrane exocytosis and Ca2+ were made from cones using the activity-dependent dye, Synaptored-C2, and the Ca2+ indicator dye, Fluo-4. Adenosine suppressed exocytosis in cones, indicating that transmitter release is also reduced from cone terminals, and further supports an inhibitory mechanism for modulating transmitter release onto second-order neurons. Furthermore, this raises the possibility that adenosine might be neuroprotective for photoreceptors and second-order neurons by suppressing Ca2+ levels in cones and reducing exocytosis of L-glutamate, respectively.

Endocannabinoids in the retina: from marijuana to neuroprotection

The active component of the marijuana plant Cannabis sativa, Delta9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), produces numerous beneficial effects, including analgesia, appetite stimulation and nausea reduction, in addition to its psychotropic effects. THC mimics the action of endogenous fatty acid derivatives, referred to as endocannabinoids. The effects of THC and the endocannabinoids are mediated largely by metabotropic receptors that are distributed throughout the nervous and peripheral organ systems. There is great interest in endocannabinoids for their role in neuroplasticity as well as for therapeutic use in numerous conditions, including pain, stroke, cancer, obesity, osteoporosis, fertility, neurodegenerative diseases, multiple sclerosis, glaucoma and inflammatory diseases, among others. However, there has been relatively far less research on this topic in the eye and retina compared with the brain and other organ systems. The purpose of this review is to introduce the "cannabinergic" field to the retinal community. All of the fundamental works on cannabinoids have been performed in non-retinal preparations, necessitating extensive dependence on this literature for background. Happily, the retinal cannabinoid system has much in common with other regions of the central nervous system. For example, there is general agreement that cannabinoids suppress dopamine release and presynaptically reduce transmitter release from cones and bipolar cells. How these effects relate to light and dark adaptations, receptive field formation, temporal properties of ganglion cells or visual perception are unknown. The presence of multiple endocannabinoids, degradative enzymes with their bioactive metabolites, and receptors provides a broad spectrum of opportunities for basic research and to identify targets for therapeutic application to retinal diseases.

Kinetics of synaptic transmission at ribbon synapses of rods and cones

The ribbon synapse is a specialized structure that allows photoreceptors to sustain the continuous release of vesicles for hours upon hours and years upon years but also respond rapidly to momentary changes in illumination. Light responses of cones are faster than those of rods and, mirroring this difference, synaptic transmission from cones is also faster than transmission from rods. This review evaluates the various factors that regulate synaptic kinetics and contribute to kinetic differences between rod and cone synapses. Presynaptically, the release of glutamate-laden synaptic vesicles is regulated by properties of the synaptic proteins involved in exocytosis, influx of calcium through calcium channels, calcium release from intracellular stores, diffusion of calcium to the release site, calcium buffering, and extrusion of calcium from the cytoplasm. The rate of vesicle replenishment also limits the ability of the synapse to follow changes in release. Post-synaptic factors include properties of glutamate receptors, dynamics of glutamate diffusion through the cleft, and glutamate uptake by glutamate transporters. Thus, multiple synaptic mechanisms help to shape the responses of second-order horizontal and bipolar cells.

Adenosine inhibits voltage-dependent Ca2+ influx in cone photoreceptor terminals of the tiger salamander retina

Endogenous adenosine has already been shown to inhibit transmitter release from the rod synapse by suppressing Ca(2+) influx through voltage-gated Ca(2+) channels. However, it is not clear how adenosine modulates the cone synapse. Cone photoreceptors, like rod photoreceptors, also possess L-type Ca(2+) channels that regulate the release of L-glutamate. To assess the impact of adenosine on Ca(2+) influx though voltage-gated Ca(2+) channels in cone terminals, whole-cell perforated-patch clamp recording and Ca(2+) imaging with fluo-4 were used on isolated cones and salamander retinal slices. Synaptic markers (VAMP and piccolo) and activity-dependent dye labeling revealed that tiger salamander cone terminals contain a broad, vesicle-filled cytoplasmic extension at the base of the somatic compartment, which is unlike rod terminals that contain one or more thin axons, each terminating in a large bulbous synaptic terminal. The spatiotemporal Ca(2+) responses of the cone terminals do not differ significantly from the Ca(2+) responses of the soma or inner segment like that observed in rods. Whole-cell recording of cone I(Ca) and Ca(2+) imaging of synaptic terminals in cones demonstrate that adenosine inhibited both I(Ca) and the depolarization-evoked Ca(2+) increase in cone terminals in a dose-dependent manner from 1 to 50 muM. These results indicate that, as in rods, adenosine's ability to suppress voltage-dependent Ca(2+) channels at the cone synapse will limit the amount of L-glutamate released. Therefore, adenosine has an inhibitory effect on L-glutamate release at the first synapse, which likely favors elevated adenosine levels in the dark or during dark-adapted conditions.

Retrograde endocannabinoid inhibition of goldfish retinal cones is mediated by 2-arachidonoyl glycerol

A functional role for retinal endocannabinoids has not been determined. We characterized retrograde suppression of membrane currents of goldfish cones in a retinal slice. Whole-cell recordings were obtained from cone inner segments under voltage clamp. I(K(V)) was elicited by a depolarizing pulse to +54 mV from a holding potential of -70 mV. A fifty-millisecond puff of saline with 70 mM KCl or Group I mGluR agonist DHPG was applied through a pipette directly at a mixed rod/cone (Mb) bipolar cell body. The amplitude of I(K(V)) decreased 25% compared to the pre-puff control. Retrograde suppression of I(K(V)) was blocked by CB1 receptor antagonist, SR141716A. The FAAH inhibitor URB597 had no effect on the suppression of I(K(V)), whereas nimesulide, a COX-2 inhibitor, prolonged the effects of the K+ puff 10-fold. Orlistat, a blocker of 2-AG synthesis, blocked the effect of the K+ puff. Group I mGluR activation of Gq/11 was demonstrated in that a puff with DHPG decreased I(K(V)) of cones by 32%, an effect blocked by SR141716A. The effect of DHPG was not blocked by the mGluR5 antagonist MPEP, indicating involvement of mGluR1. The suppressive effect of the K+ puff vanished in a Ca2+-free, 2 mM Co2+ saline. TMB-8 or ryanodine, blocked the effect of DHPG, but not that of the K+ puff, showing that calcium influx or release from intracellular stores could mediate retrograde release. We suggest that retrograde suppression of cone I(K(V)) is mediated by Ca2+-dependent release of 2-AG from Mb bipolar cell dendrites by separate mechanisms: (1) voltage-dependent, mimicked by the K+ puff, that may be activated by the depolarizing ON response to light; (2) voltage-independent, occurring under ambient illumination, mediated by tonic mGluR1 activation. The negative feedback of this latter mechanism could regulate tonic glutamate release from cones within narrow limits, regardless of ambient illumination.

Purinergic signalling in the subretinal space: a role in the communication between the retina and the RPE

The retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) is separated from the photoreceptor outer segments by the subretinal space. While the actual volume of this space is minimal, the communication that occurs across this microenvironment is important to the visual process, and accumulating evidence suggests the purines ATP and adenosine contribute to this communication. P1 and P2 receptors are localized to membranes on both the photoreceptor outer segments and on the apical membrane of the RPE which border subretinal space. ATP is released across the apical membrane of the RPE into this space in response to various triggers including glutamate and chemical ischemia. This ATP is dephosphorylated into adenosine by a series of ectoenzymes on the RPE apical membrane. Regulation of release and ectoenzyme activity in response to light-sensitive signals can alter the balance of purines in subretinal space, and thus coordinate communication across subretinal space with the visual process.

Assessing the long-term role of L-type voltage dependent calcium channel blocker verapamil on short-term presynaptic plasticity at dentate gyrus of hippocampus

High-voltage-activated Ca(2+) channels on presynaptic nerve terminals are known to play an important role in neurotransmitter release at both excitatory and inhibitory synapses. Whereas there is currently debate over the contribution of L-type voltage dependent Ca(2+) channels (L-type VDCCs) on the short-term presynaptic plasticity which is a defining feature of neuronal activity, the underlying mechanisms are poorly understood. In the present study, the L-type VDCCs chronically was inhibited with different doses of verapamil (10, 20 and 50 mg/kg; orally) to evaluate hippocampal dentate gyrus (DG) inhibitory interneuron function and its involvement on short-term plasticity using paired pulse stimulation in perforant path-DG of hippocampus. Our data show that chronic oral treatment of verapamil at dose of 50 mg/kg but not at lower doses, facilitated the excitability of DG cells at inter-stimulus intervals 20, 30 and 50 ms (P<0.03, 0.01 and 0.001; respectively) in population spike amplitude ratio, which is indicative of paired pulse potentiation in perforant path-DG synapses. While there are no significant differences in field excitatory postsynaptic potential slope ratio at all doses. We suggest that DG neurons facilitation is caused by inhibition of inhibitory interneurons directly and/or indirectly via inhibition of glutamate release in hippocampal DG. Therefore, these experiments indicate that chronic use of verapamil has effect on short-term presynaptic plasticity.

Evidence for the involvement of purinergic P2X receptors in outer retinal processing

Extracellular ATP mediates fast excitatory neurotransmission in many regions of the central nervous system through activation of P2X receptors. Although several P2X receptor subunits have been identified in the mammalian retina, little is known about the functional role of these receptors in retinal signalling. The purpose of the present study was to investigate whether purinergic P2X(7) receptors are involved in outer retinal processing by assessing receptor localization, degradation of extracellular ATP and the effect of functional activation of P2X(7) receptors on the electroretinogram (ERG). Using light and electron microscopy, we demonstrated that P2X(7) receptors are expressed postsynaptically on horizontal cell processes as well as presynaptically on photoreceptor synaptic terminals in both the rat and marmoset retina. Using an enzyme cytochemical method, we showed that ecto-ATPases are active in the outer plexiform layer of the rat retina, providing a mechanism by which purinergic synaptic transmission can be rapidly terminated. Finally, we evaluated the role of P2X(7) receptors in retinal function by assessing changes to the ERG response of rats after intravitreal delivery of the P2X(7) receptor agonist benzoyl benzoyl ATP (BzATP). Intravitreal injection of BzATP resulted in a sustained increase (up to 58%) in the amplitude of the photoreceptor-derived a-wave of the ERG. In contrast, BzATP caused a transient reduction in the rod- and cone-derived postreceptoral responses. These results provide three lines of evidence for the involvement of extracellular purines in outer retinal processing.

The dynamic range and domain-specific signals of intracellular calcium in photoreceptors

Vertebrate photoreceptors consist of strictly delimited subcellular domains: the outer segment, ellipsoid, cell body and synaptic terminal, each hosting crucial cellular functions, including phototransduction, oxidative metabolism, gene expression and transmitter release. We used optical imaging to explore the spatiotemporal dynamics of Ca(2+) signaling in non-outer segment regions of rods and cones. Sustained depolarization, designed to emulate photoreceptor activation in the darkness, evoked a standing Ca(2+) gradient in tiger salamander photoreceptors with spatially-averaged intracellular Ca(2+) concentration within synaptic terminals of approximately 2 microM and lower (approximately 750 nM) intracellular calcium concentration in the ellipsoid. Measurements from axotomized cell bodies and isolated ellipsoids showed that Ca(2+) enters the two compartments via both local L-type Ca(2+) channels and diffusion. The results from optical imaging studies were supported by immunostaining analysis. L-type voltage-operated Ca(2+) channels and plasma membrane Ca(2+) ATPases were highly expressed in synaptic terminals with progressively lower expression levels in the cell body and ellipsoid. These results show photoreceptor Ca(2+) homeostasis is controlled in a region-specific manner by direct Ca(2+) entry and diffusion as well as Ca(2+) extrusion. Moreover, quantitative measurement of intracellular calcium concentration levels in different photoreceptor compartments indicates that the dynamic range of Ca(2+) signaling in photoreceptors is approximately 40-fold, from approximately 50 nM in the light to approximately 2 microM in darkness.

Synaptic transmission at retinal ribbon synapses

The molecular organization of ribbon synapses in photoreceptors and ON bipolar cells is reviewed in relation to the process of neurotransmitter release. The interactions between ribbon synapse-associated proteins, synaptic vesicle fusion machinery and the voltage-gated calcium channels that gate transmitter release at ribbon synapses are discussed in relation to the process of synaptic vesicle exocytosis. We describe structural and mechanistic specializations that permit the ON bipolar cell to release transmitter at a much higher rate than the photoreceptor does, under in vivo conditions. We also consider the modulation of exocytosis at photoreceptor synapses, with an emphasis on the regulation of calcium channels.

Imaging of Ca2+ dynamics within the presynaptic terminals of salamander rod photoreceptors

Although the overall importance of Ca(2+) as a mediator of cell signaling and neurotransmitter release has long been appreciated, the details of Ca(2+) dynamics within the inner segments of vertebrate rod photoreceptors are just beginning to be elucidated. Even less is known regarding Ca(2+) dynamics within the rod presynaptic terminal compartment. Using fura-2 to report changes in intracellular Ca(2+), we imaged the responses of enzymatically dissociated salamander rod photoreceptors retaining intact axons and presynaptic terminals stimulated with a brief depolarizing puff of KCl (30 mM pipette concentration). In the vast majority of cells, the response was a large increase in Ca(2+) levels in the terminal compartment, but not in the soma. In contrast, rods exhibited a substantial elevation in somatic Ca(2+) levels when depolarized with a brief puff of 100 mM KCl (pipette concentration). These data are consistent with previously reported differences in Ca(2+) buffering mechanisms within the somatic and terminal compartments. Additionally, they may reflect the presence of Ca(2+) channels having distinct properties within the membranes of the two compartments. Consistent with this hypothesis, fluorescent immunocytochemistry using an antibody against the L-type Ca(2+) channel Ca(v)1.2 (alpha1C) subunit and semiquantitative confocal microscopy revealed a high concentration of immunoreactivity in the membranes of terminals of intact rods compared with the somata. Further investigations using enzymatically dissociated preparations of intact rod photoreceptors retaining their presynaptic terminals will allow further testing of these and other hypotheses regarding the compartmentalized regulation of Ca(2+) dynamics within rod photoreceptors.

Therapeutic potential of adenosine A2A receptor antagonists in Parkinson's disease

In the pursuit of improved treatments for Parkinson's disease (PD), the adenosine A(2A) receptor has emerged as an attractive nondopaminergic target. Based on the compelling behavioral pharmacology and selective basal ganglia expression of this G-protein-coupled receptor, its antagonists are now crossing the threshold of clinical development as adjunctive symptomatic treatment for relatively advanced PD. The antiparkinsonian potential of A(2A) antagonism has been boosted further by recent preclinical evidence that A(2A) antagonists might favorably alter the course as well as the symptoms of the disease. Convergent epidemiological and laboratory data have suggested that A(2A) blockade may confer neuroprotection against the underlying dopaminergic neuron degeneration. In addition, rodent and nonhuman primate studies have raised the possibility that A(2A) receptor activation contributes to the pathophysiology of dyskinesias-problematic motor complications of standard PD therapy--and that A(2A) antagonism might help prevent them. Realistically, despite being targeted to basal ganglia pathophysiology, A(2A) antagonists may be expected to have other beneficial and adverse effects elsewhere in the central nervous system (e.g., on mood and sleep) and in the periphery (e.g., on immune and inflammatory processes). The thoughtful design of new clinical trials of A(2A) antagonists should take into consideration these counterbalancing hopes and concerns and may do well to shift toward a broader set of disease-modifying as well as symptomatic indications in early PD.

Voltage-Gated Channels and Calcium Homeostasis in Mammalian Rod Photoreceptors

Recent reports on rod photoreceptor neuroprotection by Ca2+channel blockers have pointed out the need to assess the effect of these blockers on mammalian rods. However, in mammals, rod electrophysiological characterization has been hampered by the small size of these photoreceptors, which were instead extensively studied in nonmammalian vertebrates. To further characterize ionic conductances and to assess the pharmacology of Ca2+channels in mammalian rods, freshly dissociated pig rod photoreceptors were recorded with the whole cell patch-clamp technique. Rod cells expressed 1) a hyperpolarization-activated inward-rectifying conductance ( Ih) sensitive to external Cs+; 2) a sustained outward K+current ( IK) sensitive to tetraethylammonium; 3) a sustained voltage-gated Ca2+current ( ICa) sensitive to benzothiazepine (diltiazem) and phenylalkylamine (verapamil) derivatives; 4) a Ca2+-activated Cl−current ( ICl(Ca)); and 5) a plasma membrane Ca2+-ATPase. The Ca2+current showed a range of activation from positive potentials to –60 mV with a maximum between –30 and –20 mV. In contrast to other L-type Ca2+channels, rod Ca2+channels were blocked at similar and relatively high concentrations by the diltiazem isomers and verapamil. The biphasic dose-response for d-diltiazem confirmed the low sensitivity of Ca2+channels for the molecule. The ATPase, which was localized at the axon terminal, was found to contribute to Ca2+extrusion. These results suggest that the electrophysiological features of rod photoreceptors had been preserved during evolution from nonmammalian vertebrates to mammals. This work indicates further that mammalian rods express nonclassic L-type Ca2+channels, showing a low sensitivity to the diltiazem isomers used in neuroprotective studies.

Inhibitory interaction of cannabinoid CB1 receptor and dopamine D2 receptor agonists on voltage-gated currents of goldfish cones

Dopamine is a light-adaptive signal that desensitizes the retina, while cannabinoids reportedly increase photosensitivity. The presynaptic membrane of goldfish retinal cones has dopamine D2 receptors and cannabinoid CB1 receptors. This work focused on whether dopamine D2 receptor agonist quinpirole and cannabinoid CB1 receptor agonist WIN 55212-2 (WIN) interacted to modulate voltage-dependent membrane currents of cones. A conventional patch-clamp method was used to record depolarization evoked whole-cell outward currents (Iout) and an inward calcium current (ICa) from the inner segment of cones in goldfish retinal slices. WIN had biphasic actions: low concentrations (<1 μM) increased the currentsviaGs, while higher concentrations (>1 μM) decreased the currentsviaGi/Go. Neither dopamine nor the D2 agonist quinpirole (1–20 μM) had a significant effect on eitherIoutorICa. Quinpirole at 50 μM had a mild suppressive (∼20%) effect onIout. However, quinpirole (<10 μM) completely blocked the enhancement of both currents seen with 0.7 μM WIN. The effect of quinpirole was blocked by sulpiride and by pertussis toxin, indicating that quinpirole was actingviaa D2 receptor-Gi/o coupled mechanism. The suppressive action of 50 μM quinpirole (∼20%) was not additive with the suppressive effect of 3 μM WIN (∼40%). D2 agonistsviaGi/o oppose the action of low concentrations of CB1 agonists actingviaGs to modulate cone membrane currents, suggesting a role in shaping the cone light response and/or sensitivity to changes in ambient light conditions. The nonadditive effect of high concentrations of WIN and quinpirole suggests that both decrease membrane currentsviathe same transduction pathway, Gi/Go protein kinase A (PKA).

Activation of glutamate transporters in rods inhibits presynaptic calcium currents

We found that L-glutamate (L-Glu) inhibits L-type Ca2+currents (ICa) in rod photoreceptors. This inhibition was studied in isolated rods or rods in retinal slices from tiger salamander using perforated patch whole cell recordings and Cl−-imaging techniques. Application of L-Glu inhibitedICaby ∼20% at 0.1 mM and ∼35% at 1 mM. L-Glu also produced an inward current that reversed aroundECl. The metabotropic glutamate receptor (mGluR) agonists t-ADA (Group I), DCG-IV (Group II), and L-AP4 (Group III) had no effect onICa. However, the glutamate transport inhibitor, TBOA (0.1 mM), prevented L-Glu from inhibitingICa. D-aspartate (D-Asp), a glutamate transporter substrate, also inhibitedICawith significantly more inhibition at 1 mM than 0.1 mM. Using Cl−imaging, L-Glu (0.1–1 mM) and D-Asp (0.1–1 mM) were found to stimulate a Cl−efflux from terminals of isolated rods whereas the ionotropic glutamate receptor agonists NMDA, AMPA, and kainate and the mGluR agonist, 1S,3R-ACPD, did not. Glutamate-evoked Cl−effluxes were blocked by the glutamate transport inhibitors TBOA and DHKA. Cl−efflux inhibits Ca2+channel activity in rod terminals (Thoreson et al. (2000),Visual Neuroscience17, 197). Consistent with the possibility that glutamate-evoked Cl−efflux may play a role in the inhibition, reducing intraterminal Cl−prevented L-Glu from inhibitingICa. In summary, the results indicate that activation of glutamate transporters inhibitsICain rods possibly as a consequence of Cl−efflux. The neurotransmitter L-Glu released from rod terminals might thus provide a negative feedback signal to inhibit further L-Glu release.

Adenosine-A2a receptor down-regulates cerebral smooth muscle L-type Ca2+ channel activity via protein tyrosine phosphatase, not cAMP-dependent protein kinase

Adenosine acting via A2a receptors (A2aR) is a potent cerebral vasodilator that relaxes vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) by a mechanism attributed to activation of cAMP-dependent protein kinase (cAK). We examined effects of adenosine and its mechanism of action on L-type Ca2+ channels in native VSMCs from rat basilar artery. Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and immunofluorescence imaging confirmed transcription and expression of A2aR, and in situ hybridization confirmed presence of mRNA for L-type Cav1.2b channels. In patch-clamp experiments, adenosine down-regulated Ca2+ channel currents in a concentration-dependent manner, with receptor-subtype-specific antagonists [4-(2-[7-amino-2-(2-furyl)[1,2,4]triazolo-[2,3-a][1,3,5]triazin-5-ylamino]ethyl)phenol (ZM-241385) versus 1,3-dipropyl-8-cyclopentyl-1,3-dipropylxanthine] showing that this was caused by action of A2aR. Down-regulation of channel currents was mimicked by stimulation of cGMP-dependent protein kinase (cGK; 8-Br-cGMP) and by inhibition of tyrosine kinase (AG-18) but not by stimulation of cAK [forskolin and 8-bromo-cAMP (8-Br-AMP)]. Down-regulation of currents by the A2aR agonist 2-[p-(2-carboxyeth yl)phenylethylamino]-5'-N-ethyolcarboxamidoadenosine (CGS-21680) was blocked by inhibiting protein tyrosine phosphatase (PTP; orthovanodate and dephostatin), but not by inhibiting cGK (KT-5823 and H-7). Western blots of lysate or of immunoisolated Ca2+ channels from arterial segments incubated with CGS-21680 showed 1) increased phosphorylation of vasodilator-stimulated phosphoprotein that was blocked by inhibiting cAK (KT-5720), consistent with activation of cAK by A2aR; and 2) decreased tyrosine phosphorylation of immunoisolated alpha1c subunit of the Ca2+ channel. Our data show that cAK, although activated, was not germane to down-regulation of Ca2+ channel activity by A2aR, and they delineate a novel signaling mechanism involving reduced tyrosine phosphorylation of Ca2+ channels by A2aR probably caused by PTP activation.

Reciprocal interactions between calcium and chloride in rod photoreceptors

This study used imaging and electrophysiological techniques in salamander retinal slices to correlate Ca2+ and Cl- levels in rods and thus test the hypothesis of a feedback interaction between Ca2+- and Ca2+-activated Cl- channels whereby Cl- efflux through Cl- channels can inhibit Ca2+ channels. Increasing [K+]o levels produced a concentration-dependent depolarization of rods accompanied by increases in [Ca2+]i measured with Fura-2. The voltage dependence of increases in [Ca2+]i was compared with the voltage dependence of the calcium current (ICa). [Cl-]i was measured with the dye, MEQ. Depolarization with high K+ to membrane potentials below -20 mV reduced [Cl-]i; larger depolarizations increased [Cl-]i. The Na/K/Cl cotransport inhibitor, bumetanide, shifted the apparent Cl- equilibrium potential (ECl) to more negative potentials, suggesting that this cotransporter helps establish a relatively depolarized ECl. MEQ fluorescence changes evoked by high K+ were inhibited by niflumic acid (0.1 mM), NPPB (2 microM), or replacement of Ca2+ with Ba2+, suggesting that depolarization-evoked Cl- changes result partly from stimulation of Ca2+-activated Cl- channels. Replacing >/=12 mM [Cl-]o with CH3SO4- produced a significant reduction in [Cl-]i. [Ca2+]i increases evoked by 20 or 50 mM K+ were also significantly inhibited by replacing >/=12 mM [Cl-]o with CH3SO4-. Thus modest depolarization can evoke increases in [Ca2+]i that lead to reductions in [Cl-]i, and conversely, reductions in [Cl-]i inhibit depolarization-evoked [Ca2+]i increases. These findings support the hypothesis that feedback interactions between Ca2+- and Ca2+-activated Cl- channels may contribute to the regulation of presynaptic Ca2+ currents involved in synaptic transmission from rod photoreceptors.

Cav1.4alpha1 subunits can form slowly inactivating dihydropyridine-sensitive L-type Ca2+ channels lacking Ca2+-dependent inactivation

The neuronal L-type calcium channels (LTCCs) Cav1.2alpha1 and Cav1.3alpha1 are functionally distinct. Cav1.3alpha1 activates at lower voltages and inactivates more slowly than Cav1.2alpha1, making it suitable to support sustained L-type Ca2+ inward currents (ICa,L) and serve in pacemaker functions. We compared the biophysical and pharmacological properties of human retinal Cav1.4alpha1 using the whole-cell patch-clamp technique after heterologous expression in tsA-201 cells with other L-type alpha1 subunits. Cav1.4alpha1-mediated inward Ba2+ currents (IBa) required the coexpression of alpha2delta1 and beta3 or beta2a subunits and were detected in a lower proportion of transfected cells than Cav1.3alpha1. IBa activated at more negative voltages (5% activation threshold; -39mV; 15 mm Ba2+) than Cav1.2alpha1 and slightly more positive than Cav1.3alpha1. Voltage-dependent inactivation of IBa was slower than for Cav1.2alpha1 and Cav1.3alpha1( approximately 50% inactivation after 5 sec; alpha2delta1 + beta3 coexpression). Inactivation was not increased with Ca2+ as the charge carrier, indicating the absence of Ca2+-dependent inactivation. Cav1.4alpha1 exhibited voltage-dependent, G-protein-independent facilitation by strong depolarizing pulses. The dihydropyridine (DHP)-antagonist isradipine blocked Cav1.4alpha1 with approximately 15-fold lower sensitivity than Cav1.2alpha1 and in a voltage-dependent manner. Strong stimulation by the DHP BayK 8644 was found despite the substitution of an otherwise L-type channel-specific tyrosine residue in position 1414 (repeat IVS6) by a phenylalanine. Cav1.4alpha1 + alpha2delta1 + beta channel complexes can form LTCCs with intermediate DHP antagonist sensitivity lacking Ca2+-dependent inactivation. Their biophysical properties should enable them to contribute to sustained ICa,L at negative potentials, such as required for tonic neurotransmitter release in sensory cells and plateau potentials in spiking neurons.

Endogenous adenosine reduces glutamatergic output from rods through activation of A2-like adenosine receptors

Adenosine is released from retina in darkness; photoreceptors possess A2 adenosine receptors, and A2 agonists inhibit L-type Ca2+ currents (ICa) in rods. We therefore investigated whether A2 agonists inhibit rod inputs into second-order neurons and whether selective antagonists to A1, A2A, or A3 receptors prevent Ca2+ influx through rod ICa. [Ca2+]i changes in rods were assessed with fura-2. ICa in rods and light responses of rods and second-order neurons were recorded using perforated patch-clamp techniques in the aquatic tiger salamander retinal slice preparation. Consistent with earlier results using the A2 agonist N6-[2-(3,5-dimethoxyphenyl)-2-(2-methylphenyl)-ethyl]adenosine (DPMA), the A2A agonist CGS-21680 significantly inhibited ICa and depolarization-evoked [Ca2+]i increases in rods. The A1 antagonist, 8-cyclopentyl-1,3-dipropylxanthine (DPCPX), and A2A antagonist, ZM-241385, but not the A3 antagonist, VUF-5574, inhibited effects of adenosine on Ca2+ influx in rods. DPCPX and ZM-241385 also inhibited effects of CGS-21680, suggesting they both act at A2A receptors. Both A2 agonists, CGS-21680 and DPMA, reduced light-evoked currents in second-order neurons but not light-evoked voltage responses of rods, suggesting that activation of A2 receptors inhibits transmitter release from rods. The inhibitory effects of CGS-21680 on both depolarization-evoked Ca2+ influx and light-evoked currents in second-order neurons were antagonized by ZM-241385. By itself, ZM-241385 enhanced the light-evoked currents in second-order neurons, suggesting that endogenous levels of adenosine inhibit transmitter release from rods. The effects of these drugs suggest that endogenous adenosine activates an A2-like adenosine receptor on rods leading to inhibition of ICa, which in turn inhibits l-glutamate release from rod photoreceptors.

Cannabinoid receptor activation differentially modulates ion channels in photoreceptors of the tiger salamander

Cannabinoid CB1 receptors have been detected in retinas of numerous species, with prominent labeling in photoreceptor terminals of the chick and monkey. CB1 labeling is well-conserved across species, suggesting that CB1 receptors might also be present in photoreceptors of the tiger salamander. Synaptic transmission in vertebrate photoreceptors is mediated by L-type calcium currents-currents that are modulated by CB1 receptors in bipolar cells of the tiger salamander. Presence of CB1 receptors in photoreceptor terminals would therefore be consistent with presynaptic modulation of synaptic transmission, a role seen for cannabinoids in other parts of the brain. Here we report immunohistochemical and electrophysiological evidence for the presence of functional CB1 receptors in rod and cone photoreceptors of the tiger salamander. The cannabinoid receptor agonist WIN 55212-2 enhances calcium currents of rod photoreceptors by 39% but decreases calcium currents of large single cones by 50%. In addition, WIN 55212-2 suppresses potassium currents of rods and large single cones by 44 and 48%, respectively. Thus functional CB1 receptors, present in the terminals of rod and cone photoreceptors, differentially modulate calcium and potassium currents in rods and large single cones. CB1 receptors are therefore well positioned to modulate neurotransmitter release at the first synapse of the visual system.

Adenosine receptors in the nervous system: pathophysiological implications

Adenosine is a ubiquitous homeostatic substance released from most cells, including neurones and glia. Once in the extracellular space, adenosine modifies cell functioning by operating G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCR; A(1), A(2A), A(2B), A(3)) that can inhibit (A(1)) or enhance (A(2)) neuronal communication. Interactions between adenosine receptors and other G-protein-coupled receptors, ionotropic receptors and receptors for neurotrophins also occur, and this might contribute to a fine-tuning of neuronal function. Manipulations of adenosine receptors influence sleep and arousal, cognition and memory, neuronal damage and degeneration, as well as neuronal maturation. These actions might have therapeutic implications for neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, as well as for other neurological situations such as epilepsy, idiopathic pain or even drug addition. Peripheral side effects associated with adenosine receptor agonists limit their usefulness in therapeutics; in contrast, adenosine receptor antagonists appear to have less side effects as it is the case of the well-known non-selective antagonists theophylline (present in tea) or caffeine (abundant in coffee and tea), and their emerging beneficial actions in Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease are encouraging. A(1) receptor antagonism may also be useful to enhance cognition and facilitate arousal, as well as in the periphery when deficits of neurotransmitter release occur (e.g. myasthenic syndromes). Enhancement of extracellular adenosine levels through drugs that influence its metabolism might prove useful approaches in situations such as neuropathic pain, where enhanced activation of inhibitory adenosine A(1) receptors is beneficial. One might then consider adenosine as a fine-tuning modulator of neuronal activity, which via subtle effects causes harmonic actions on neuronal activity. Whenever this homeostasis is disrupted, pathology may be installed and selective receptor antagonism or agonism required.

Calcium regulation in photoreceptors

In this review we describe some of the remarkable and intricate mechanisms through which the calcium ion (Ca2+) contributes to detection, transduction and synaptic transfer of light stimuli in rod and cone photoreceptors. The function of Ca2+ is highly compartmentalized. In the outer segment, Ca2+ controls photoreceptor light adaptation by independently adjusting the gain of phototransduction at several stages in the transduction chain. In the inner segment and synaptic terminal, Ca2+ regulates cells' metabolism, glutamate release, cytoskeletal dynamics, gene expression and cell death. We discuss the mechanisms of Ca2+ entry, buffering, sequestration, release from internal stores and Ca2+ extrusion from both outer and inner segments, showing that these two compartments have little in common with respect to Ca2+ homeostasis. We also investigate the various roles played by Ca2+ as an integrator of intracellular signaling pathways, and emphasize the central role played by Ca2+ as a second messenger in neuromodulation of photoreceptor signaling by extracellular ligands such as dopamine, adenosine and somatostatin. Finally, we review the intimate link between dysfunction in photoreceptor Ca2+ homeostasis and pathologies leading to retinal dysfunction and blindness.