1
|
Héja L, Simon Á, Kardos J. Simulation of gap junction formation reveals critical role of Cys disulfide redox state in connexin hemichannel docking. Cell Commun Signal 2024; 22:185. [PMID: 38500186 PMCID: PMC10949817 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-023-01439-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 03/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Video Abstract.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- László Héja
- Institute of Organic Chemistry, Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Magyar Tudósok Körútja 2, 1117, Budapest, Hungary.
| | - Ágnes Simon
- Institute of Organic Chemistry, Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Magyar Tudósok Körútja 2, 1117, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Julianna Kardos
- Institute of Organic Chemistry, Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Magyar Tudósok Körútja 2, 1117, Budapest, Hungary
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Posukh OL, Maslova EA, Danilchenko VY, Zytsar MV, Orishchenko KE. Functional Consequences of Pathogenic Variants of the GJB2 Gene (Cx26) Localized in Different Cx26 Domains. Biomolecules 2023; 13:1521. [PMID: 37892203 PMCID: PMC10604905 DOI: 10.3390/biom13101521] [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: 09/15/2023] [Revised: 10/08/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
One of the most common forms of genetic deafness has been predominantly associated with pathogenic variants in the GJB2 gene, encoding transmembrane protein connexin 26 (Cx26). The Cx26 molecule consists of an N-terminal domain (NT), four transmembrane domains (TM1-TM4), two extracellular loops (EL1 and EL2), a cytoplasmic loop, and a C-terminus (CT). Pathogenic variants in the GJB2 gene, resulting in amino acid substitutions scattered across the Cx26 domains, lead to a variety of clinical outcomes, including the most common non-syndromic autosomal recessive deafness (DFNB1A), autosomal dominant deafness (DFNA3A), as well as syndromic forms combining hearing loss and skin disorders. However, for rare and poorly documented variants, information on the mode of inheritance is often lacking. Numerous in vitro studies have been conducted to elucidate the functional consequences of pathogenic GJB2 variants leading to amino acid substitutions in different domains of Cx26 protein. In this work, we summarized all available data on a mode of inheritance of pathogenic GJB2 variants leading to amino acid substitutions and reviewed published information on their functional effects, with an emphasis on their localization in certain Cx26 domains.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Olga L. Posukh
- Federal Research Center Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia; (E.A.M.); (V.Y.D.); (M.V.Z.); (K.E.O.)
- Novosibirsk State University, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Ekaterina A. Maslova
- Federal Research Center Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia; (E.A.M.); (V.Y.D.); (M.V.Z.); (K.E.O.)
- Novosibirsk State University, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Valeriia Yu. Danilchenko
- Federal Research Center Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia; (E.A.M.); (V.Y.D.); (M.V.Z.); (K.E.O.)
- Novosibirsk State University, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Marina V. Zytsar
- Federal Research Center Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia; (E.A.M.); (V.Y.D.); (M.V.Z.); (K.E.O.)
| | - Konstantin E. Orishchenko
- Federal Research Center Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia; (E.A.M.); (V.Y.D.); (M.V.Z.); (K.E.O.)
- Novosibirsk State University, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Jones JC, Bodenstine TM. Connexins and Glucose Metabolism in Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms231710172. [PMID: 36077565 PMCID: PMC9455984 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231710172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2022] [Revised: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Connexins are a family of transmembrane proteins that regulate diverse cellular functions. Originally characterized for their ability to mediate direct intercellular communication through the formation of highly regulated membrane channels, their functions have been extended to the exchange of molecules with the extracellular environment, and the ability to modulate numerous channel-independent effects on processes such as motility and survival. Notably, connexins have been implicated in cancer biology for their context-dependent roles that can both promote or suppress cancer cell function. Moreover, connexins are able to mediate many aspects of cellular metabolism including the intercellular coupling of nutrients and signaling molecules. During cancer progression, changes to substrate utilization occur to support energy production and biomass accumulation. This results in metabolic plasticity that promotes cell survival and proliferation, and can impact therapeutic resistance. Significant progress has been made in our understanding of connexin and cancer biology, however, delineating the roles these multi-faceted proteins play in metabolic adaptation of cancer cells is just beginning. Glucose represents a major carbon substrate for energy production, nucleotide synthesis, carbohydrate modifications and generation of biosynthetic intermediates. While cancer cells often exhibit a dependence on glycolytic metabolism for survival, cellular reprogramming of metabolic pathways is common when blood perfusion is limited in growing tumors. These metabolic changes drive aggressive phenotypes through the acquisition of functional traits. Connections between glucose metabolism and connexin function in cancer cells and the surrounding stroma are now apparent, however much remains to be discovered regarding these relationships. This review discusses the existing evidence in this area and highlights directions for continued investigation.
Collapse
|
4
|
Gap Junction-Dependent and -Independent Functions of Connexin43 in Biology. BIOLOGY 2022; 11:biology11020283. [PMID: 35205149 PMCID: PMC8869330 DOI: 10.3390/biology11020283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2021] [Revised: 02/08/2022] [Accepted: 02/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
For the first time in animal evolution, the emergence of gap junctions allowed direct exchanges of cellular substances for communication between two cells. Innexin proteins constituted primordial gap junctions until the connexin protein emerged in deuterostomes and took over the gap junction function. After hundreds of millions of years of gene duplication, the connexin gene family now comprises 21 members in the human genome. Notably, GJA1, which encodes the Connexin43 protein, is one of the most widely expressed and commonly studied connexin genes. The loss of Gja1 in mice leads to swelling and a blockage of the right ventricular outflow tract and death of the embryos at birth, suggesting a vital role of Connexin43 gap junction in heart development. Since then, the importance of Connexin43-mediated gap junction function has been constantly expanded to other types of cells. Other than forming gap junctions, Connexin43 can also form hemichannels to release or uptake small molecules from the environment or even mediate many physiological processes in a gap junction-independent manner on plasma membranes. Surprisingly, Connexin43 also localizes to mitochondria in the cell, playing important roles in mitochondrial potassium import and respiration. At the molecular level, Connexin43 mRNA and protein are processed with very distinct mechanisms to yield carboxyl-terminal fragments with different sizes, which have their unique subcellular localization and distinct biological activities. Due to many exciting advancements in Connexin43 research, this review aims to start with a brief introduction of Connexin43 and then focuses on updating our knowledge of its gap junction-independent functions.
Collapse
|
5
|
Cliff CL, Williams BM, Chadjichristos CE, Mouritzen U, Squires PE, Hills CE. Connexin 43: A Target for the Treatment of Inflammation in Secondary Complications of the Kidney and Eye in Diabetes. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:600. [PMID: 35054783 PMCID: PMC8776095 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23020600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2021] [Revised: 01/03/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Of increasing prevalence, diabetes is characterised by elevated blood glucose and chronic inflammation that precedes the onset of multiple secondary complications, including those of the kidney and the eye. As the leading cause of end stage renal disease and blindness in the working population, more than ever is there a demand to develop clinical interventions which can both delay and prevent disease progression. Connexins are membrane bound proteins that can form pores (hemichannels) in the cell membrane. Gated by cellular stress and injury, they open under pathophysiological conditions and in doing so release 'danger signals' including adenosine triphosphate into the extracellular environment. Linked to sterile inflammation via activation of the nod-like receptor protein 3 inflammasome, targeting aberrant hemichannel activity and the release of these danger signals has met with favourable outcomes in multiple models of disease, including secondary complications of diabetes. In this review, we provide a comprehensive update on those studies which document a role for aberrant connexin hemichannel activity in the pathogenesis of both diabetic eye and kidney disease, ahead of evaluating the efficacy of blocking connexin-43 specific hemichannels in these target tissues on tissue health and function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chelsy L. Cliff
- Joseph Banks Laboratories, School of Life, Sciences University of Lincoln, Lincoln LN6 7DL, UK; (C.L.C.); (B.M.W.); (P.E.S.)
| | - Bethany M. Williams
- Joseph Banks Laboratories, School of Life, Sciences University of Lincoln, Lincoln LN6 7DL, UK; (C.L.C.); (B.M.W.); (P.E.S.)
| | - Christos E. Chadjichristos
- National Institutes for Health and Medical Research, UMR-S1155, Batiment Recherche, Tenon Hospital, 4 Rue de la Chine, 75020 Paris, France;
| | - Ulrik Mouritzen
- Ciana Therapeutics, Ole Maaloes Vej 3, 2200 Copenhagen N, Denmark;
| | - Paul E. Squires
- Joseph Banks Laboratories, School of Life, Sciences University of Lincoln, Lincoln LN6 7DL, UK; (C.L.C.); (B.M.W.); (P.E.S.)
| | - Claire E. Hills
- Joseph Banks Laboratories, School of Life, Sciences University of Lincoln, Lincoln LN6 7DL, UK; (C.L.C.); (B.M.W.); (P.E.S.)
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Héja L, Simon Á, Szabó Z, Kardos J. Connexons Coupling to Gap Junction Channel: Potential Role for Extracellular Protein Stabilization Centers. Biomolecules 2021; 12:biom12010049. [PMID: 35053197 PMCID: PMC8773650 DOI: 10.3390/biom12010049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2021] [Revised: 12/21/2021] [Accepted: 12/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Connexin (Cx) proteins establish intercellular gap junction channels (Cx GJCs) through coupling of two apposed hexameric Cx hemichannels (Cx HCs, connexons). Pre- and post-GJ interfaces consist of extracellular EL1 and EL2 loops, each with three conserved cysteines. Previously, we reported that known peptide inhibitors, mimicking a variety of Cx43 sequences, appear non-selective when binding to homomeric Cx43 vs. Cx36 GJC homology model subtypes. In pursuit of finding potentially Cx subtype-specific inhibitors of connexon-connexon coupling, we aimed at to understand better how the GJ interface is formed. Here we report on the discovery of Cx GJC subtype-specific protein stabilization centers (SCs) featuring GJ interface architecture. First, the Cx43 GJC homology model, embedded in two opposed membrane bilayers, has been devised. Next, we endorsed the fluctuation dynamics of SCs of the interface domain of Cx43 GJC by applying standard molecular dynamics under open and closed cystine disulfide bond (CS-SC) preconditions. The simulations confirmed the major role of the unique trans-GJ SC pattern comprising conserved (55N, 56T) and non-conserved (57Q) residues of the apposed EL1 loops in the stabilization of the GJC complex. Importantly, clusters of SC patterns residing close to the GJ interface domain appear to orient the interface formation via the numerous SCs between EL1 and EL2. These include central 54CS-S198C or 61CS-S192C contacts with residues 53R, 54C, 55N, 197D, 199F or 64V, 191P, respectively. In addition, we revealed that GJC interface formation is favoured when the psi dihedral angle of the nearby 193P residue is stable around 180° and the interface SCs disappear when this angle moves to the 0° to −45° range. The potential of the association of non-conserved residues with SC motifs in connexon-connexon coupling makes the development of Cx subtype-specific inhibitors viable.
Collapse
|
7
|
Lymphatic Connexins and Pannexins in Health and Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22115734. [PMID: 34072103 PMCID: PMC8199429 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22115734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2021] [Revised: 05/18/2021] [Accepted: 05/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
This review highlights current knowledge on the expression and function of connexins and pannexins, transmembrane channel proteins that play an important role in intercellular communication, in both the developing and mature lymphatic vasculature. A particular focus is given to the involvement of these proteins in functions of the healthy lymphatic system. We describe their influence on the maintenance of extracellular fluid homeostasis, immune cell trafficking to draining lymph nodes and dietary nutrient absorption by intestinal villi. Moreover, new insights into connexin mutations in primary and secondary lymphedema as well as on the implication of lymphatic connexins and pannexins in acquired cardiovascular diseases are discussed, allowing for a better understanding of the role of these proteins in pathologies linked to dysfunctions in the lymphatic system.
Collapse
|
8
|
Ottolini M, Sonkusare SK. The Calcium Signaling Mechanisms in Arterial Smooth Muscle and Endothelial Cells. Compr Physiol 2021; 11:1831-1869. [PMID: 33792900 PMCID: PMC10388069 DOI: 10.1002/cphy.c200030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The contractile state of resistance arteries and arterioles is a crucial determinant of blood pressure and blood flow. Physiological regulation of arterial contractility requires constant communication between endothelial and smooth muscle cells. Various Ca2+ signals and Ca2+ -sensitive targets ensure dynamic control of intercellular communications in the vascular wall. The functional effect of a Ca2+ signal on arterial contractility depends on the type of Ca2+ -sensitive target engaged by that signal. Recent studies using advanced imaging methods have identified the spatiotemporal signatures of individual Ca2+ signals that control arterial and arteriolar contractility. Broadly speaking, intracellular Ca2+ is increased by ion channels and transporters on the plasma membrane and endoplasmic reticular membrane. Physiological roles for many vascular Ca2+ signals have already been confirmed, while further investigation is needed for other Ca2+ signals. This article focuses on endothelial and smooth muscle Ca2+ signaling mechanisms in resistance arteries and arterioles. We discuss the Ca2+ entry pathways at the plasma membrane, Ca2+ release signals from the intracellular stores, the functional and physiological relevance of Ca2+ signals, and their regulatory mechanisms. Finally, we describe the contribution of abnormal endothelial and smooth muscle Ca2+ signals to the pathogenesis of vascular disorders. © 2021 American Physiological Society. Compr Physiol 11:1831-1869, 2021.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Matteo Ottolini
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Swapnil K Sonkusare
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA.,Department of Molecular Physiology & Biological Physics, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA.,Robert M. Berne Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Natha CM, Vemulapalli V, Fiori MC, Chang CWT, Altenberg GA. Connexin hemichannel inhibitors with a focus on aminoglycosides. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2021; 1867:166115. [PMID: 33711451 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2021.166115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2020] [Revised: 02/06/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Connexins are membrane proteins involved directly in cell-to-cell communication through the formation of gap-junctional channels. These channels result from the head-to-head docking of two hemichannels, one from each of two adjacent cells. Undocked hemichannels are also present at the plasma membrane where they mediate the efflux of molecules that participate in autocrine and paracrine signaling, but abnormal increase in hemichannel activity can lead to cell damage in disorders such as cardiac infarct, stroke, deafness, cataracts, and skin diseases. For this reason, connexin hemichannels have emerged as a valid therapeutic target. Know small molecule hemichannel inhibitors are not ideal leads for the development of better drugs for clinical use because they are not specific and/or have toxic effects. Newer inhibitors are more selective and include connexin mimetic peptides, anti-connexin antibodies and drugs that reduce connexin expression such as antisense oligonucleotides. Re-purposed drugs and their derivatives are also promising because of the significant experience with their clinical use. Among these, aminoglycoside antibiotics have been identified as inhibitors of connexin hemichannels that do not inhibit gap-junctional channels. In this review, we discuss connexin hemichannels and their inhibitors, with a focus on aminoglycoside antibiotics and derivatives of kanamycin A that inhibit connexin hemichannels, but do not have antibiotic effect.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cristina M Natha
- Department of Cell Physiology and Molecular Biophysics, and Center for Membrane Protein Research, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, USA
| | - Varun Vemulapalli
- Department of Cell Physiology and Molecular Biophysics, and Center for Membrane Protein Research, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, USA
| | - Mariana C Fiori
- Department of Cell Physiology and Molecular Biophysics, and Center for Membrane Protein Research, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, USA
| | - Cheng-Wei T Chang
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Utah State University, Logan, UT, USA
| | - Guillermo A Altenberg
- Department of Cell Physiology and Molecular Biophysics, and Center for Membrane Protein Research, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Ovsepian SV, O'Leary VB, Vesselkin NP. Evolutionary origins of chemical synapses. VITAMINS AND HORMONES 2020; 114:1-21. [PMID: 32723540 DOI: 10.1016/bs.vh.2020.04.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Synaptic transmission is a fundamental neurobiological process by which neurons interact with each other and non-neuronal cells. It involves release of active substances from the presynaptic neuron onto receptive elements of postsynaptic cells, inducing waves of spreading electrochemical response. While much has been learned about the cellular and molecular mechanisms driving and governing transmitter release and sensing, the evolutionary origin of synaptic connections remains obscure. Herein, we review emerging evidence and concepts suggesting that key components of chemical synapse arose independently from neurons, in different functional and biological contexts, before the rise of multicellular living forms. We argue that throughout evolution, distinct synaptic constituents have been co-opted from ancestral forms for a new role in early metazoan, leading to the rise of chemical synapses and neurotransmission. Such a mosaic model of the origin of chemical synapses agrees with and supports the pluralistic hypothesis of evolutionary change.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Saak V Ovsepian
- Institute for Biological and Medical Imaging, Helmholtz Zentrum Munich, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Neuherberg, Germany; International Centre for Neurotherapeutics, Dublin City University, Dublin, Ireland; Department of Experimental Neurobiology, National Institute of Mental Health, Klecany, Czech Republic; Department of Psychiatry and Medical Psychology, 3rd Faculty of Medicine of Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic.
| | - Valerie B O'Leary
- Department of Medical Genetics, Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Ruská, Czech Republic
| | - Nikolai P Vesselkin
- Sechenov Institute of Evolutionary Physiology and Biochemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, St. Petersburg, Russia; Faculty of Medicine, The State University of Saint Petersburg, St. Petersburg, Russia
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Rozas-Villanueva MF, Casanello P, Retamal MA. Role of ROS/RNS in Preeclampsia: Are Connexins the Missing Piece? Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21134698. [PMID: 32630161 PMCID: PMC7369723 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21134698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2020] [Revised: 06/18/2020] [Accepted: 06/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Preeclampsia is a pregnancy complication that appears after 20 weeks of gestation and is characterized by hypertension and proteinuria, affecting both mother and offspring. The cellular and molecular mechanisms that cause the development of preeclampsia are poorly understood. An important feature of preeclampsia is an increase in oxygen and nitrogen derived free radicals (reactive oxygen species/reactive nitrogen species (ROS/RNS), which seem to be central players setting the development and progression of preeclampsia. Cell-to-cell communication may be disrupted as well. Connexins (Cxs), a family of transmembrane proteins that form hemichannels and gap junction channels (GJCs), are essential in paracrine and autocrine cell communication, allowing the movement of signaling molecules between cells as well as between the cytoplasm and the extracellular media. GJCs and hemichannels are fundamental for communication between endothelial and smooth muscle cells and, therefore, in the control of vascular contraction and relaxation. In systemic vasculature, the activity of GJCs and hemichannels is modulated by ROS and RNS. Cxs participate in the development of the placenta and are expressed in placental vasculature. However, it is unknown whether Cxs are modulated by ROS/RNS in the placenta, or whether this potential modulation contributes to the pathogenesis of preeclampsia. Our review addresses the possible role of Cxs in preeclampsia, and the plausible modulation of Cxs-formed channels by ROS and RNS. We suggest these factors may contribute to the development of preeclampsia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- María F. Rozas-Villanueva
- Centro de Fisiología Celular e Integrativa, Facultad de Medicina Clínica Alemana, Universidad del Desarrollo, Santiago 7690000, Chile;
- Programa de Doctorado en Ciencias e Innovación en Medicina, Facultad de Medicina, Clínica Alemana Universidad del Desarrollo, Santiago 7690000, Chile
| | - Paola Casanello
- Department of Obstetrics, School of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 7690000, Chile;
- Department of Neonatology, School of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 7690000, Chile
| | - Mauricio A. Retamal
- Centro de Fisiología Celular e Integrativa, Facultad de Medicina Clínica Alemana, Universidad del Desarrollo, Santiago 7690000, Chile;
- Programa de Comunicación Celular de Cáncer, Facultad de Medicina Clínica Alemana, Universidad del Desarrollo, Santiago 7690000, Chile
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Taylor SSZ, Jacobsen NL, Pontifex TK, Langlais P, Burt JM. Serine 319 phosphorylation is necessary and sufficient to induce a Cx37 conformation that leads to arrested cell cycling. J Cell Sci 2020; 133:jcs240721. [PMID: 32350069 PMCID: PMC7328134 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.240721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2019] [Accepted: 04/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Connexin 37 (Cx37; protein product of GJA4) expression profoundly suppresses proliferation of rat insulinoma (Rin) cells in a manner dependent on gap junction channel (GJCh) functionality and the presence and phosphorylation status of its C-terminus (CT). In Rin cells, growth is arrested upon induced Cx37 expression and serine 319 (S319) is frequently phosphorylated. Here, we show that preventing phosphorylation at this site (alanine substitution; S319A) relieved Cx37 of its growth-suppressive effect whereas mimicking phosphorylation at this site (aspartate substitution; S319D) enhanced the growth-suppressive properties of Cx37. Like wild-type Cx37 (Cx37-WT), Cx37-S319D GJChs and hemichannels (HChs) preferred the closed state, rarely opening fully, and gated slowly. In contrast, Cx37-S319A channels preferred open states, opened fully and gated rapidly. These data indicate that phosphorylation-dependent conformational differences in Cx37 protein and channel function underlie Cx37-induced growth arrest versus growth-permissive phenotypes. That the closed state of Cx37-WT and Cx37-S319D GJChs and HChs favors growth arrest suggests that rather than specific permeants mediating cell cycle arrest, the closed conformation instead supports interaction of Cx37 with growth regulatory proteins that result in growth arrest.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Nicole L Jacobsen
- Department of Medical Pharmacology and Physiology, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
| | - Tasha K Pontifex
- Department of Physiology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85724, USA
| | - Paul Langlais
- Department of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85724, USA
| | - Janis M Burt
- Department of Physiology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85724, USA
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Albano JMR, Facelli JC, Ferraro MB, Pickholz M. Magnesium interactions with a CX26 connexon in lipid bilayers. J Mol Model 2019; 25:232. [PMID: 31327057 DOI: 10.1007/s00894-019-4121-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2019] [Accepted: 07/04/2019] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Following our previous work, where we described the interaction of calcium with the Cx26 hemichannel, we further explore the same system by atomistic molecular dynamics simulations considering a different di-cation, magnesium. Specifically, the interaction of magnesium di-cation with the previously reported calcium binding sites (ASP2, ASP117, ASP159, GLU114, GLU119, GLU120, and VAL226) was investigated to identify similarities and differences between them. In order to do so, four extensive simulations were carried out. Two of them considered a Cx26 hemichannel embedded on a POPC bilayer with one of the di-cations and a sodium-chlorine solution. For the remaining two, no di-cations were included and a sodium-chlorine or potassium-chlorine solution was considered. Potassium has a similar atomic mass to calcium, and sodium to magnesium, but they both differ in charge (1e and 2e respectively). Magnesium and calcium, even having the same charge, showed different affinity for the explored protein. From the calcium binding sites referred above, we found that the magnesium di-cations only binds strongly to the GLU114 site of one connexin. For the sodium and potassium simulations, no specific interactions with the protein were found. Altogether, these results suggest that mass and steric effects play an important role in determining cation binding to Cx26 hemichannels.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Juan M R Albano
- Departamento de Física, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires and IFIBA, CONICET, Ciudad Universitaria, Pabellón 1, 1428, Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Instituto de Física de Buenos Aires (IFIBA), CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Julio C Facelli
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, University of Utah, 421 Wakara Way, Suite 140, Salt Lake City, UT, 84108, USA
| | - Marta B Ferraro
- Departamento de Física, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires and IFIBA, CONICET, Ciudad Universitaria, Pabellón 1, 1428, Buenos Aires, Argentina. .,Instituto de Física de Buenos Aires (IFIBA), CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| | - Monica Pickholz
- Departamento de Física, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires and IFIBA, CONICET, Ciudad Universitaria, Pabellón 1, 1428, Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Instituto de Física de Buenos Aires (IFIBA), CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Zhao X, Yu C, Zheng M, Sun J. Prognostic value of the mRNA expression of gap junction α members in patients with gastric cancer. Oncol Lett 2019; 18:1669-1678. [PMID: 31423234 PMCID: PMC6614678 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2019.10516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2018] [Accepted: 05/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Gastric cancer remains one of the primary causes of cancer-associated death worldwide. The gap junction α (GJA) family has been demonstrated to be involved in the cellular proliferation and metastasis of gastric cancer. However, the prognostic value of GJA in gastric cancer is yet to be elucidated. In the present study, the overall survival (OS) of patients with gastric cancer and the mRNA expression of GJA family members, including GJA1, GJA3, GJA4, GJA10 and GJA12, were analyzed using 593 patients with gastric cancer from the Kaplan-Meier plotter database. High GJA1 and GJA10 mRNA expression levels were associated with a poorer patient outcome (P=0.0066 and P=0.015, respectively), whereas high mRNA expression levels of GJA4 and GJA12 were associated with longer survival times (P=0.0056 and P=0.0054, respectively). Furthermore, the values of specific prognostic indicators of different subtypes of gastric cancer, including human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 status, Lauren differentiation and tumor stage, were also analyzed. The findings of the present study suggested a potential role for GJA family members in gastric cancer, which warrants further investigation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xuan Zhao
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai Minimally Invasive Surgery Center, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, P.R. China
| | - Chaoran Yu
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai Minimally Invasive Surgery Center, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, P.R. China
| | - Minhua Zheng
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai Minimally Invasive Surgery Center, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, P.R. China
| | - Jing Sun
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai Minimally Invasive Surgery Center, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Xiang Y, Wang Q, Guo Y, Ge H, Fu Y, Wang X, Tao L. Cx32 exerts anti-apoptotic and pro-tumor effects via the epidermal growth factor receptor pathway in hepatocellular carcinoma. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2019; 38:145. [PMID: 30947731 PMCID: PMC6449973 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-019-1142-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2018] [Accepted: 03/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Abnormal expression or distribution of connexin 32 (Cx32) is associated with hepatocarcinogenesis, but the role of Cx32 and the underlying mechanisms are still unclear. METHODS The expression level of Cx32 in 96 hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) specimens was determined using western blotting and immunohistochemistry. The correlation between Cx32 expression and clinicopathological parameters was analyzed. The cell apoptosis rate was examined using flow cytometry and western blotting. The role of Cx32 in the Src kinase and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) signaling pathways was measured by quantitative real-time PCR, western blotting and coimmunoprecipitation (CO-IP). The effect of Cx32 overexpression on the streptonigrin (SN)-induced tumor growth suppression and apoptosis was assessed in nude mice. RESULTS Our study showed that overexpressed Cx32 accumulated in the cytoplasm and that Cx32-containing gap junctions (GJs) were nearly absent in HCC specimens. Upregulated Cx32 expression was highly correlated with advanced tumor-node-metastasis (TNM) stage and poor tumor differentiation and was an independent predictive marker for poor prognosis in HCC. Overexpression of Cx32 significantly inhibited SN-induced apoptosis by activating the EGFR signaling pathway in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, the expression levels of Cx32 and EGFR were positively correlated in HCC specimens. The CO-IP experiments demonstrated that Cx32 could bind to Src kinase, and the western blotting results revealed that Cx32 increased the levels of EGFR and p-EGFR by upregulating Src expression. CONCLUSION The present study demonstrated that overexpressed and internalized Cx32 was associated with advanced TNM stage and poor tumor differentiation and predicted poor prognosis in HCC. Cx32 facilitated HCC progression by blocking chemotherapy-induced apoptosis in vitro and in vivo via interacting with Src and thus promoting the phosphorylation of EGFR, subsequently activating the EGFR signaling pathway. Cx32 may be a potential biomarker and a new therapeutic target for HCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuke Xiang
- Department of Pharmacology, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510080 People’s Republic of China
| | - Qin Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510080 People’s Republic of China
| | - Yunquan Guo
- Tumor Research Institute, Xinjiang Medical University Affiliated Tumor Hospital and State Key Laboratory, Urumqi, 830000 People’s Republic of China
| | - Hui Ge
- Tumor Research Institute, Xinjiang Medical University Affiliated Tumor Hospital and State Key Laboratory, Urumqi, 830000 People’s Republic of China
| | - Yile Fu
- Department of Pharmacology, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510080 People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiyan Wang
- Tumor Research Institute, Xinjiang Medical University Affiliated Tumor Hospital and State Key Laboratory, Urumqi, 830000 People’s Republic of China
| | - Liang Tao
- Department of Pharmacology, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510080 People’s Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Channels, transporters and receptors for cadmium and cadmium complexes in eukaryotic cells: myths and facts. Biometals 2019; 32:469-489. [DOI: 10.1007/s10534-019-00176-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2019] [Accepted: 01/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
|
17
|
Myers JB, Haddad BG, O'Neill SE, Chorev DS, Yoshioka CC, Robinson CV, Zuckerman DM, Reichow SL. Structure of native lens connexin 46/50 intercellular channels by cryo-EM. Nature 2018; 564:372-377. [PMID: 30542154 PMCID: PMC6309215 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-018-0786-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2017] [Accepted: 10/29/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Gap junctions establish direct pathways for cell-to-cell communication through the assembly of twelve connexin subunits that form intercellular channels connecting neighbouring cells. Co-assembly of different connexin isoforms produces channels with unique properties and enables communication across cell types. Here we used single-particle cryo-electron microscopy to investigate the structural basis of connexin co-assembly in native lens gap junction channels composed of connexin 46 and connexin 50 (Cx46/50). We provide the first comparative analysis to connexin 26 (Cx26), which-together with computational studies-elucidates key energetic features governing gap junction permselectivity. Cx46/50 adopts an open-state conformation that is distinct from the Cx26 crystal structure, yet it appears to be stabilized by a conserved set of hydrophobic anchoring residues. 'Hot spots' of genetic mutations linked to hereditary cataract formation map to the core structural-functional elements identified in Cx46/50, suggesting explanations for many of the disease-causing effects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Janette B Myers
- Department of Chemistry, Portland State University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Bassam G Haddad
- Department of Chemistry, Portland State University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Susan E O'Neill
- Department of Chemistry, Portland State University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Dror S Chorev
- Physical and Theoretical Chemistry Laboratory, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Craig C Yoshioka
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Carol V Robinson
- Physical and Theoretical Chemistry Laboratory, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Daniel M Zuckerman
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Steve L Reichow
- Department of Chemistry, Portland State University, Portland, OR, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Zhao F, Yan J, Zhao J, Shi B, Ye M, Huang X, Yu B, Lv B, Huang W. Effect of platelet-derived growth factor-BB on gap junction and connexin43 in rat penile corpus cavernosum smooth muscle cells. Andrologia 2018; 51:e13200. [PMID: 30467872 DOI: 10.1111/and.13200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2018] [Revised: 10/14/2018] [Accepted: 10/20/2018] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
We explored whether platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)-BB regulates corpus cavernosum smooth muscle cell gap junctions and can ameliorate erectile dysfunction and how it modulates connexin43 (CX43) after bilateral cavernous neurectomy. Primary cultured rat corpus cavernosum smooth muscle cells were treated with PDGF-BB with or without a PDGFR inhibitor, Akt siRNA or the depletion or promotion of β-catenin. PDGF-BB improved CCSMCs gap junction coupling and increased CX43 and PDGFRβ expression; inhibition of PDGFR activity down-regulated CX43 and decreased Akt and nuclear β-catenin. Knockdown or promotion of β-catenin down-regulated and up-regulated CX43 expression respectively. Moreover, β-catenin activation induced CX43 nuclear accumulation, which impeded CX43 down-regulation induced by PDGFR inhibition, suggesting that CX43 expression is positively correlated with nuclear β-catenin expression. Furthermore, CX43 promoter luciferase and chromatin immunoprecipitation assays indicated that β-catenin regulates CX43 transcription by directly interacting with its promoter. Male rats underwent bilateral cavernous neurectomy. After 12 weeks, they were injected with PDGF-BB, CX43 and PDGFRβ expression was significantly lower than in the control group, which was reversed by PDGF-BB injection. These results suggested that PDGF-BB contributed to the improvement of gap junction intracellular communication among corpus cavernosum smooth muscle cells, increased CX43 through PDGFRβ/Akt/nuclear β-catenin signalling, and ameliorated cavernous nerve injury-induced erectile dysfunction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fan Zhao
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Junfeng Yan
- Department of Urology, Zhejiang Hospital, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jianfeng Zhao
- Department of Urology and Andrology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Bing Shi
- Department of Urology, Nantong Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nantong, China
| | - Miaoyong Ye
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiaojun Huang
- Department of Urology and Andrology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Bo Yu
- Technology and Development Center for TCM of China, Beijing, China
| | - Bodong Lv
- Department of Urology and Andrology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China.,Andrology Laboratory on Integration of Chinese and Western Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Wenjie Huang
- Department of Urology and Andrology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Albano JMR, Mussini N, Toriano R, Facelli JC, Ferraro MB, Pickholz M. Calcium interactions with Cx26 hemmichannel: Spatial association between MD simulations biding sites and variant pathogenicity. Comput Biol Chem 2018; 77:331-342. [PMID: 30466042 DOI: 10.1016/j.compbiolchem.2018.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2018] [Revised: 07/08/2018] [Accepted: 11/08/2018] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Connexinophaties are a collective of diseases related to connexin channels and hemichannels. In particular many Cx26 alterations are strongly associated to human deafness. Calcium plays an important role on this structures regulation. Here, using calcium as a probe, extensive atomistic Molecular Dynamics simulations were performed on the Cx26 hemichannel embedded in a lipid bilayer. Exploring different initial conditions and calcium concentration, simulation reached ∼4 μs. Several analysis were carried out in order to reveal the calcium distribution and localization, such as electron density profiles, density maps and distance time evolution, which is directly associated to the interaction energy. Specific amino acid interactions with calcium and their stability were capture within this context. Few of these sites such as, GLU42, GLU47, GLY45 and ASP50, were already suggested in the literature. Besides, we identified novel calcium biding sites: ASP2, ASP117, ASP159, GLU114, GLU119, GLU120 and VAL226. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first time that these sites are reported within this context. Furthermore, since various pathologies involving the Cx26 hemichannel are associated with pathogenic variants in the corresponding CJB2 gene, using ClinVar, we were able to spatially associate the 3D positions of the identified calcium binding sites within the framework of this work with reported pathogenic variants in the CJB2 gene. This study presents a first step on finding associations between molecular features and pathological variants of the Cx26 hemichannel.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Juan M R Albano
- Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Departamento de Física, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Argentina; CONICET- Universidad de Buenos Aires, IFIBA, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Nahuel Mussini
- Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Departamento de Física, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Argentina; CONICET- Universidad de Buenos Aires, IFIBA, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Roxana Toriano
- Facultad de Medicina, Departamento de Ciencias Fisiológicas, Laboratorio de Biomembranas, Buenos Aires, Argentina; CONICET - Universidad de Buenos Aires, IFIBIO Houssay, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Julio C Facelli
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, The University of Utah, 421 Wakara Way, Suite 140, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, USA.
| | - Marta B Ferraro
- Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Departamento de Física, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Argentina; CONICET- Universidad de Buenos Aires, IFIBA, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Mónica Pickholz
- Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Departamento de Física, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Argentina; CONICET- Universidad de Buenos Aires, IFIBA, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Abstract
Harris explores the development of our current understanding of electrical coupling between cells and the channels that mediate it, highlighting the contributions of the Journal of General Physiology. As the physiology of synapses began to be explored in the 1950s, it became clear that electrical communication between neurons could not always be explained by chemical transmission. Instead, careful studies pointed to a direct intercellular pathway of current flow and to the anatomical structure that was (eventually) called the gap junction. The mechanism of intercellular current flow was simple compared with chemical transmission, but the consequences of electrical signaling in excitable tissues were not. With the recognition that channels were a means of passive ion movement across membranes, the character and behavior of gap junction channels came under scrutiny. It became evident that these gated channels mediated intercellular transfer of small molecules as well as atomic ions, thereby mediating chemical, as well as electrical, signaling. Members of the responsible protein family in vertebrates—connexins—were cloned and their channels studied by many of the increasingly biophysical techniques that were being applied to other channels. As described here, much of the evolution of the field, from electrical coupling to channel structure–function, has appeared in the pages of the Journal of General Physiology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrew L Harris
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology, and Neuroscience, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Gaitán-Peñas H, Pusch M, Estévez R. Expression of LRRC8/VRAC Currents in Xenopus Oocytes: Advantages and Caveats. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19030719. [PMID: 29498698 PMCID: PMC5877580 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19030719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2018] [Revised: 02/25/2018] [Accepted: 02/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Volume-regulated anion channels (VRACs) play a role in controlling cell volume by opening upon cell swelling. Apart from controlling cell volume, their function is important in many other physiological processes, such as transport of metabolites or drugs, and extracellular signal transduction. VRACs are formed by heteromers of the pannexin homologous protein LRRC8A (also named Swell1) with other LRRC8 members (B, C, D, and E). LRRC8 proteins are difficult to study, since they are expressed in all cells of our body, and the channel stoichiometry can be changed by overexpression, resulting in non-functional heteromers. Two different strategies have been developed to overcome this issue: complementation by transient transfection of LRRC8 genome-edited cell lines, and reconstitution in lipid bilayers. Alternatively, we have used Xenopus oocytes as a simple system to study LRRC8 proteins. Here, we have reviewed all previous experiments that have been performed with VRAC and LRRC8 proteins in Xenopus oocytes. We also discuss future strategies that may be used to perform structure-function analysis of the VRAC in oocytes and other systems, in order to understand its role in controlling multiple physiological functions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Héctor Gaitán-Peñas
- Facultat de Medicina, Departament de Ciències Fisiològiques, Universitat de Barcelona-IDIBELL, C/Feixa Llarga s/n, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, 08907 Barcelona, Spain.
- Centro de Investigación en red de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), 08907 Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Michael Pusch
- Istituto di Biofisica, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR), I-16149 Genova, Italy.
| | - Raúl Estévez
- Facultat de Medicina, Departament de Ciències Fisiològiques, Universitat de Barcelona-IDIBELL, C/Feixa Llarga s/n, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, 08907 Barcelona, Spain.
- Centro de Investigación en red de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), 08907 Barcelona, Spain.
| |
Collapse
|