Na+/K+-ATPase is a new interacting partner for the neuronal glycine transporter GlyT2 that downregulates its expression in vitro and in vivo

Monitoring of activity-driven trafficking of endogenous synaptic proteins through proximity labeling

To enable transmission of information in the brain, synaptic vesicles fuse to presynaptic membranes, liberating their content and exposing transiently a myriad of vesicular transmembrane proteins. However, versatile methods for quantifying the synaptic translocation of endogenous proteins during neuronal activity remain unavailable, as the fast dynamics of synaptic vesicle cycling difficult specific isolation of trafficking proteins during such a transient surface exposure. Here, we developed a novel approach using synaptic cleft proximity labeling to capture and quantify activity-driven trafficking of endogenous synaptic proteins at the synapse. We show that accelerating cleft biotinylation times to match the fast dynamics of vesicle exocytosis allows capturing endogenous proteins transiently exposed at the synaptic surface during neural activity, enabling for the first time the study of the translocation of nearly every endogenous synaptic protein. As proof-of-concept, we further applied this technology to obtain direct evidence of the surface translocation of noncanonical trafficking proteins, such as ATG9A and NPTX1, which had been proposed to traffic during activity but for which direct proof had not yet been shown. The technological advancement presented here will facilitate future studies dissecting the molecular identity of proteins exocytosed at the synapse during activity, helping to define the molecular machinery that sustains neurotransmission in the mammalian brain.

The presynaptic glycine transporter GlyT2 is regulated by the Hedgehog pathway in vitro and in vivo

The identity of a glycinergic synapse is maintained presynaptically by the activity of a surface glycine transporter, GlyT2, which recaptures glycine back to presynaptic terminals to preserve vesicular glycine content. GlyT2 loss-of-function mutations cause Hyperekplexia, a rare neurological disease in which loss of glycinergic neurotransmission causes generalized stiffness and strong motor alterations. However, the molecular underpinnings controlling GlyT2 activity remain poorly understood. In this work, we identify the Hedgehog pathway as a robust controller of GlyT2 expression and transport activity. Modulating the activation state of the Hedgehog pathway in vitro in rodent primary spinal cord neurons or in vivo in zebrafish embryos induced a selective control in GlyT2 expression, regulating GlyT2 transport activity. Our results indicate that activation of Hedgehog reduces GlyT2 expression by increasing its ubiquitination and degradation. This work describes a new molecular link between the Hedgehog signaling pathway and presynaptic glycine availability.

By modulating the activation state of the Hedgehog pathway, de la Rocha-Muñoz et al demonstrate that Hedgehog signaling controls the expression and transport activity of the neuronal glycine transporter GlyT2. This work begins to reveal a potential link between the Hedgehog signaling pathway and presynaptic glycine availability.

Calcium-Dependent Regulation of the Neuronal Glycine Transporter GlyT2 by M2 Muscarinic Acetylcholine Receptors

The neuronal glycine transporter GlyT2 modulates inhibitory glycinergic neurotransmission and plays a key role in regulating nociceptive signal progression. The cholinergic system acting through muscarinic acetylcholine receptors (mAChRs) also mediates important regulations of nociceptive transmission being the M2 subtype the most abundantly expressed in the spinal cord. Here we studied the effect of M2 mAChRs stimulation on GlyT2 function co-expressed in a heterologous system with negligible levels of muscarinic receptor activity. We found GlyT2 is down-regulated by carbachol in a calcium-dependent manner. Different components involved in cell calcium homeostasis were analysed to establish a role in the mechanism of GlyT2 inhibition. GlyT2 down-regulation by carbachol was increased by thapsigargin and reduced by internal store depletion, although calcium release from endoplasmic reticulum or mitochondria had a minor role on GlyT2 inhibition. Our results are consistent with a GlyT2 sensitivity to intracellular calcium mobilized by M2 mAChRs in the subcortical area of the plasma membrane. A crucial role of the plasma membrane sodium calcium exchanger NCX is proposed.

The Na+, K+-ATPase β1 subunit regulates epithelial tight junctions via MRCKα

An intact lung epithelial barrier is essential for lung homeostasis. The Na⁺, K⁺-ATPase (NKA), primarily serving as an ion transporter, also regulates epithelial barrier function via modulation of tight junctions. However, the underlying mechanism is not well understood. Here, we show that overexpression of the NKA β1 subunit upregulates the expression of tight junction proteins, leading to increased alveolar epithelial barrier function by an ion transport–independent mechanism. Using IP and mass spectrometry, we identified a number of unknown protein interactions of the β1 subunit, including a top candidate, myotonic dystrophy kinase–related cdc42-binding kinase α (MRCKα), which is a protein kinase known to regulate peripheral actin formation. Using a doxycycline-inducible gene expression system, we demonstrated that MRCKα and its downstream activation of myosin light chain is required for the regulation of alveolar barrier function by the NKA β1 subunit. Importantly, MRCKα is expressed in both human airways and alveoli and has reduced expression in patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), a lung illness that can be caused by multiple direct and indirect insults, including the infection of influenza virus and SARS-CoV-2. Our results have elucidated a potentially novel mechanism by which NKA regulates epithelial tight junctions and have identified potential drug targets for treating ARDS and other pulmonary diseases that are caused by barrier dysfunction.

Ouabain-Induced Gene Expression Changes in Human iPSC-Derived Neuron Culture Expressing Dopamine and cAMP-Regulated Phosphoprotein 32 and GABA Receptors

Cardiotonic steroids (CTS) are specific inhibitors and endogenous ligands of a key enzyme in the CNS-the Na⁺, K⁺-ATPase, which maintains and creates an ion gradient on the plasma membrane of neurons. CTS cause the activation of various signaling cascades and changes in gene expression in neurons and other cell types. It is known that intracerebroventricular injection of cardiotonic steroid ouabain causes mania-like behavior in rodents, in part due to activation of dopamine-related signaling cascades in the dopamine and cAMP-regulated phosphoprotein 32 (DARPP-32) expressing medium spiny neurons in the striatum. Dopaminergic projections in the striatum innervate these GABAergic medium spiny neurons. The objective of this study was to assess changes in the expression of all genes in human iPSC-derived expressing DARPP-32 and GABA receptors neurons under the influence of ouabain. We noted a large number of statistically significant upregulated and downregulated genes after a 16-h incubation with non-toxic concentration (30 nM) of ouabain. These changes in the transcriptional activity were accomplished with activation of MAP-kinase ERK1/2 and transcriptional factor cAMP response element-binding protein (CREB). Thus, it can be concluded that 30 nM ouabain incubated for 16 h with human iPSC-derived expressing DARPP-32 and GABA receptors neurons activates genes associated with neuronal maturation and synapse formation, by increasing the expression of genes associated with translation, vesicular transport, and increased electron transport chain function. At the same time, the expression of genes associated with proliferation, migration, and early development of neurons decreases. These data indicate that non-toxic concentrations of ouabain may induce neuronal maturation, neurite growth, and increased synaptogenesis in dopamine-receptive GABAergic neurons, suggesting formation of plasticity and the establishment of new neuronal junctions.

A System for Assessing Dual Action Modulators of Glycine Transporters and Glycine Receptors

Reduced inhibitory glycinergic neurotransmission is implicated in a number of neurological conditions such as neuropathic pain, schizophrenia, epilepsy and hyperekplexia. Restoring glycinergic signalling may be an effective method of treating these pathologies. Glycine transporters (GlyTs) control synaptic and extra-synaptic glycine concentrations and slowing the reuptake of glycine using specific GlyT inhibitors will increase glycine extracellular concentrations and increase glycine receptor (GlyR) activation. Glycinergic neurotransmission can also be improved through positive allosteric modulation (PAM) of GlyRs. Despite efforts to manipulate this synapse, no therapeutics currently target it. We propose that dual action modulators of both GlyTs and GlyRs may show greater therapeutic potential than those targeting individual proteins. To show this, we have characterized a co-expression system in Xenopus laevis oocytes consisting of GlyT1 or GlyT2 co-expressed with GlyRα1. We use two electrode voltage clamp recording techniques to measure the impact of GlyTs on GlyRs and the effects of modulators of these proteins. We show that increases in GlyT density in close proximity to GlyRs diminish receptor currents. Reductions in GlyR mediated currents are not observed when non-transportable GlyR agonists are applied or when Na+ is not available. GlyTs reduce glycine concentrations across different concentration ranges, corresponding with their ion-coupling stoichiometry, and full receptor currents can be restored when GlyTs are blocked with selective inhibitors. We show that partial inhibition of GlyT2 and modest GlyRα1 potentiation using a dual action compound, is as useful in restoring GlyR currents as a full and potent single target GlyT2 inhibitor or single target GlyRα1 PAM. The co-expression system developed in this study will provide a robust means for assessing the likely impact of GlyR PAMs and GlyT inhibitors on glycine neurotransmission.

Heterogeneity of Astrocytic and Neuronal GLT-1 at Cortical Excitatory Synapses, as Revealed by its Colocalization With Na+/K+-ATPase α Isoforms

GLT-1, the major glutamate transporter, is expressed at perisynaptic astrocytic processes (PAP) and axon terminals (AxT). GLT-1 is coupled to Na+/K+-ATPase (NKA) α1-3 isoforms, whose subcellular distribution and spatial organization in relationship to GLT-1 are largely unknown. Using several microscopy techniques, we showed that at excitatory synapses α1 and α3 are exclusively neuronal (mainly in dendrites and in some AxT), while α2 is predominantly astrocytic. GLT-1 displayed a differential colocalization with α1-3. GLT-1/α2 and GLT-1/α3 colocalization was higher in GLT-1 positive puncta partially (for GLT-1/α2) or almost totally (for GLT-1/α3) overlapping with VGLUT1 positive terminals than in nonoverlapping ones. GLT-1 colocalized with α2 at PAP, and with α1 and α3 at AxT. GLT-1 and α2 gold particles were ∼1.5-2 times closer than GLT-1/α1 and GLT-1/α3 particles. GLT-1/α2 complexes (edge to edge interdistance of gold particles ≤50 nm) concentrated at the perisynaptic region of PAP membranes, whereas neuronal GLT-1/α1 and GLT-1/α3 complexes were fewer and more uniformly distributed in AxT. These data unveil different composition of GLT-1 and α subunits complexes in the glial and neuronal domains of excitatory synapses. The spatial organization of GLT-1/α1-3 complexes suggests that GLT-1/NKA interaction is more efficient in astrocytes than in neurons, further supporting the dominant role of astrocytic GLT-1 in glutamate homeostasis.

Regression adjusted colocalisation colour mapping (RACC): A novel biological visual analysis method for qualitative colocalisation analysis of 3D fluorescence micrographs

The qualitative analysis of colocalisation in fluorescence microscopy is of critical importance to the understanding of biological processes and cellular function. However, the degree of accuracy achieved may differ substantially when executing different yet commonly utilized colocalisation analyses. We propose a novel biological visual analysis method that determines the correlation within the fluorescence intensities and subsequently uses this correlation to assign a colourmap value to each voxel in a three-dimensional sample while also highlighting volumes with greater combined fluorescence intensity. This addresses the ambiguity and variability which can be introduced into the visualisation of the spatial distribution of correlation between two fluorescence channels when the colocalisation between these channels is not considered. Most currently employed and generally accepted methods of visualising colocalisation using a colourmap can be negatively affected by this ambiguity, for example by incorrectly indicating non-colocalised voxels as positively correlated. In this paper we evaluate the proposed method by applying it to both synthetic data and biological fluorescence micrographs and demonstrate how it can enhance the visualisation in a robust way by visualising only truly colocalised regions using a colourmap to indicate the qualitative measure of the correlation between the fluorescence intensities. This approach may substantially support fluorescence microscopy applications in which precise colocalisation analysis is of particular relevance.

E3 ubiquitin ligases LNX1 and LNX2 are major regulators of the presynaptic glycine transporter GlyT2

The neuronal glycine transporter GlyT2 is an essential regulator of glycinergic neurotransmission that recaptures glycine in presynaptic terminals to facilitate transmitter packaging in synaptic vesicles. Alterations in GlyT2 expression or activity result in lower cytosolic glycine levels, emptying glycinergic synaptic vesicles and impairing neurotransmission. Lack of glycinergic neurotransmission caused by GlyT2 loss-of-function mutations results in Hyperekplexia, a rare neurological disease characterized by generalized stiffness and motor alterations that may cause sudden infant death. Although the importance of GlyT2 in pathology is known, how this transporter is regulated at the molecular level is poorly understood, limiting current therapeutic strategies. Guided by an unbiased screening, we discovered that E3 ubiquitin ligase Ligand of Numb proteins X1/2 (LNX1/2) modulate the ubiquitination status of GlyT2. The N-terminal RING-finger domain of LNX1/2 ubiquitinates a cytoplasmic C-terminal lysine cluster in GlyT2 (K751, K773, K787 and K791), and this process regulates the expression levels and transport activity of GlyT2. The genetic deletion of endogenous LNX2 in spinal cord primary neurons causes an increase in GlyT2 expression and we find that LNX2 is required for PKC-mediated control of GlyT2 transport. This work identifies, to our knowledge, the first E3 ubiquitin-ligases acting on GlyT2, revealing a novel molecular mechanism that controls presynaptic glycine availability. Providing a better understanding of the molecular regulation of GlyT2 may help future investigations into the molecular basis of human disease states caused by dysfunctional glycinergic neurotransmission, such as hyperekplexia and chronic pain.

Lipid-Based Inhibitors Act Directly on GlyT2

The endogenous lipids N-arachidonylglycine and oleoyl-l-carnitine are potential therapeutic leads in the treatment of chronic pain through their inhibition of the glycine transporter GlyT2. However, their mechanism of action is unknown. It has been hypothesized that these "bioactive" lipids either inhibit GlyT2 indirectly, by significantly perturbing the biophysical properties of the membrane, or directly, by binding directly to the transporter (either from a membrane-exposed or solvent-exposed binding site). Here, we used molecular dynamics simulations to study the effects of the lipids anandamide, N-arachidonylglycine, and oleoyl-l-carnitine on (a) the biophysical properties of the bilayer and (b) direct binding interactions with GlyT2. During the simulations, the biophysical properties of the bilayer itself, for example, the area per lipid, bilayer thickness, and order parameters, were not significantly altered by the presence or type of bioactive lipid, regardless of the presence of GlyT2. Our work, together with previous computational and experimental data, suggests that these acyl-inhibitors of GlyT2 inhibit the transporter by directly binding to it. However, these bioactive lipids bound to various parts of GlyT2 and did not prefer a single binding site during 4.5 μs of simulation. We postulate that the binding site is located at the solvent-exposed regions of GlyT2. Understanding the mechanism of action of these and related bioactive lipids is essential in effectively developing high-affinity GlyT2 inhibitors for the treatment of pain.

Multiple myosin motors interact with sodium/potassium-ATPase alpha 1 subunits

The alpha1 (α1) subunit of the sodium/potassium ATPase (i.e., Na⁺/K⁺-ATPase α1), the prototypical sodium pump, is expressed in each eukaryotic cell. They pump out three sodium ions in exchange for two extracellular potassium ions to establish a cellular electrochemical gradient important for firing of neuronal and cardiac action potentials. We hypothesized that myosin (myo or myh) motor proteins might interact with Na⁺/K⁺-ATPase α1 subunits in order for them to play an important role in the transport and trafficking of sodium pump. To this end immunoassays were performed to determine whether class II non-muscle myosins (i.e., NMHC-IIA/myh9, NMHC-IIB/myh10 or NMHC-IIC/myh14), myosin Va (myoVa) and myosin VI (myoVI) would interact with Na⁺/K⁺-ATPase α1 subunits. Immunoprecipitation of myh9, myh10, myh14, myoVa and myoVI from rat brain tissues led to the co-immunoprecipitation of Na⁺/K⁺-ATPase α1 subunits expressed there. Heterologous expression studies using HEK293 cells indicated that recombinant myh9, myh10, myh14 and myoVI interact with Na⁺/K⁺-ATPase α1 subunits expressed in HEK293 cells. Additional results indicated that loss of tail regions in recombinant myh9, myh10, myh14 and myoVI did not affect their interaction with Na⁺/K⁺-ATPase α1 subunits. However, recombinant myh9, myh10 and myh14 mutants having reduced or no actin binding ability, as a result of loss of their actin binding sites, displayed greatly reduced or null interaction with Na⁺/K⁺-ATPase α1 subunits. These results suggested the involvement of the actin binding site, but not tail regions, of NMHC-IIs in their interaction with Na⁺/K⁺-ATPase α1 subunits. Overall these results suggest a role for these diverse myosins in the trafficking and transport of sodium pump in neuronal and non-neuronal tissues.

Hyperekplexia-associated mutations in the neuronal glycine transporter 2

Hyperekplexia or startle disease is a dysfunction of inhibitory glycinergic neurotransmission characterized by an exaggerated startle in response to trivial tactile or acoustic stimuli. Although rare, this disorder can have serious consequences, including sudden infant death. One of the most frequent causes of hyperekplexia are mutations in the SLC6A5 gene, encoding the neuronal glycine transporter 2 (GlyT2), a key component of inhibitory glycinergic presynapses involved in synaptic glycine recycling though sodium and chloride-dependent co-transport. Most GlyT2 mutations detected so far are recessive, but two dominant missense mutations have been described. The detailed analysis of these mutations has revealed structural cues on the quaternary structure of GlyT2, and opens the possibility that novel selective pharmacochaperones have potential therapeutic effects in hyperekplexia.

Neuronal Porosome Complex: Secretory Machinery at the Nerve Terminal

Neuronal porosomes are 15 nm cup-shaped lipoprotein secretory machines composed of nearly 30 proteins present at the presynaptic membrane, that have been investigated using multiple imaging modalities, such as electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, and solution X-ray. Synaptic vesicles transiently dock and fuse at the base of the porosome cup facing the cytosol, by establishing a fusion pore for neurotransmitter release. Studies on the morphology, dynamics, isolation, composition, and reconstitution of the neuronal porosome complex provide a molecular understanding of its structure and function. In the past twenty years, a large body of evidence has accumulated on the involvement of the neuronal porosome proteins in neurotransmission and various neurological disorders. In light of these findings, this review briefly summarizes our current understanding of the neuronal porosome complex, the secretory nanomachine at the nerve terminal.

Serotonin Transporter Associated Protein Complexes Are Enriched in Synaptic Vesicle Proteins and Proteins Involved in Energy Metabolism and Ion Homeostasis

The serotonin transporter (SERT) mediates Na⁺-dependent high-affinity serotonin uptake and plays a key role in regulating extracellular serotonin concentration in the brain and periphery. To gain novel insight into SERT regulation, we conducted a comprehensive proteomics screen to identify components of SERT-associated protein complexes in the brain by employing three independent approaches. In vivo SERT complexes were purified from rat brain using an immobilized high-affinity SERT ligand, amino-methyl citalopram. This approach was combined with GST pulldown and yeast two-hybrid screens using N- and C-terminal cytoplasmic transporter domains as bait. Potential SERT associated proteins detected by at least two of the interaction methods were subjected to gene ontology analysis resulting in the identification of functional protein clusters that are enriched in SERT complexes. Prominent clusters include synaptic vesicle proteins, as well as proteins involved in energy metabolism and ion homeostasis. Using subcellular fractionation and electron microscopy we provide further evidence that SERT is indeed associated with synaptic vesicle fractions, and colocalizes with small vesicular structures in axons and axon terminals. We also show that SERT is found in close proximity to mitochondrial membranes in both, hippocampal and neocortical regions. We propose a model of the SERT interactome, in which SERT is distributed between different subcellular compartments through dynamic interactions with site-specific protein complexes. Finally, our protein interaction data suggest novel hypotheses for the regulation of SERT activity and trafficking, which ultimately impact on serotonergic neurotransmission and serotonin dependent brain functions.

Glycinergic transmission: glycine transporter GlyT2 in neuronal pathologies

Glycinergic neurons are major contributors to the regulation of neuronal excitability, mainly in caudal areas of the nervous system. These neurons control fluxes of sensory information between the periphery and the CNS and diverse motor activities like locomotion, respiration or vocalization. The phenotype of a glycinergic neuron is determined by the expression of at least two proteins: GlyT2, a plasma membrane transporter of glycine, and VIAAT, a vesicular transporter shared by glycine and GABA. In this article, we review recent advances in understanding the role of GlyT2 in the pathophysiology of inhibitory glycinergic neurotransmission. GlyT2 mutations are associated to decreased glycinergic function that results in a rare movement disease termed hyperekplexia (HPX) or startle disease. In addition, glycinergic neurons control pain transmission in the dorsal spinal cord and their function is reduced in chronic pain states. A moderate inhibition of GlyT2 may potentiate glycinergic inhibition and constitutes an attractive target for pharmacological intervention against these devastating conditions.

A novel de novo mutation in ATP1A3 and childhood-onset schizophrenia

We describe a child with onset of command auditory hallucinations and behavioral regression at 6 yr of age in the context of longer standing selective mutism, aggression, and mild motor delays. His genetic evaluation included chromosomal microarray analysis and whole-exome sequencing. Sequencing revealed a previously unreported heterozygous de novo mutation c.385G>A in ATP1A3, predicted to result in a p.V129M amino acid change. This gene codes for a neuron-specific isoform of the catalytic α-subunit of the ATP-dependent transmembrane sodium–potassium pump. Heterozygous mutations in this gene have been reported as causing both sporadic and inherited forms of alternating hemiplegia of childhood and rapid-onset dystonia parkinsonism. We discuss the literature on phenotypes associated with known variants in ATP1A3, examine past functional studies of the role of ATP1A3 in neuronal function, and describe a novel clinical presentation associated with mutation of this gene.

Insights into the Pathology of the α3 Na(+)/K(+)-ATPase Ion Pump in Neurological Disorders; Lessons from Animal Models

The transmembrane Na(+)-/K(+) ATPase is located at the plasma membrane of all mammalian cells. The Na(+)-/K(+) ATPase utilizes energy from ATP hydrolysis to extrude three Na(+) cations and import two K(+) cations into the cell. The minimum constellation for an active Na(+)-/K(+) ATPase is one alpha (α) and one beta (β) subunit. Mammals express four α isoforms (α1-4), encoded by the ATP1A1-4 genes, respectively. The α1 isoform is ubiquitously expressed in the adult central nervous system (CNS) whereas α2 primarily is expressed in astrocytes and α3 in neurons. Na(+) and K(+) are the principal ions involved in action potential propagation during neuronal depolarization. The α1 and α3 Na(+)-/K(+) ATPases are therefore prime candidates for restoring neuronal membrane potential after depolarization and for maintaining neuronal excitability. The α3 isoform has approximately four-fold lower Na(+) affinity compared to α1 and is specifically required for rapid restoration of large transient increases in [Na(+)]i. Conditions associated with α3 deficiency are therefore likely aggravated by suprathreshold neuronal activity. The α3 isoform been suggested to support re-uptake of neurotransmitters. These processes are required for normal brain activity, and in fact autosomal dominant de novo mutations in ATP1A3 encoding the α3 isoform has been found to cause the three neurological diseases Rapid Onset Dystonia Parkinsonism (RDP), Alternating Hemiplegia of Childhood (AHC), and Cerebellar ataxia, areflexia, pes cavus, optic atrophy, and sensorineural hearing loss (CAPOS). All three diseases cause acute onset of neurological symptoms, but the predominant neurological manifestations differ with particularly early onset of hemiplegic/dystonic episodes and mental decline in AHC, ataxic encephalopathy and impairment of vision and hearing in CAPOS syndrome and late onset of dystonia/parkinsonism in RDP. Several mouse models have been generated to study the in vivo consequences of Atp1a3 modulation. The different mice show varying degrees of hyperactivity, gait problems, and learning disability as well as stress-induced seizures. With the advent of several Atp1a3-gene or chemically modified animal models that closely phenocopy many aspects of the human disorders, we will be able to reach a much better understanding of the etiology of RDP, AHC, and CAPOS syndrome.

Specialized Functional Diversity and Interactions of the Na,K-ATPase

Na,K-ATPase is a protein ubiquitously expressed in the plasma membrane of all animal cells and vitally essential for their functions. A specialized functional diversity of the Na,K-ATPase isozymes is provided by molecular heterogeneity, distinct subcellular localizations, and functional interactions with molecular environment. Studies over the last decades clearly demonstrated complex and isoform-specific reciprocal functional interactions between the Na,K-ATPase and neighboring proteins and lipids. These interactions are enabled by a spatially restricted ion homeostasis, direct protein-protein/lipid interactions, and protein kinase signaling pathways. In addition to its "classical" function in ion translocation, the Na,K-ATPase is now considered as one of the most important signaling molecules in neuronal, epithelial, skeletal, cardiac and vascular tissues. Accordingly, the Na,K-ATPase forms specialized sub-cellular multimolecular microdomains which act as receptors to circulating endogenous cardiotonic steroids (CTS) triggering a number of signaling pathways. Changes in these endogenous cardiotonic steroid levels and initiated signaling responses have significant adaptive values for tissues and whole organisms under numerous physiological and pathophysiological conditions. This review discusses recent progress in the studies of functional interactions between the Na,K-ATPase and molecular microenvironment, the Na,K-ATPase-dependent signaling pathways and their significance for diversity of cell function.

Insights into the Pathology of the α2-Na(+)/K(+)-ATPase in Neurological Disorders; Lessons from Animal Models

A functional Na⁺/K⁺-ATPase consists of a catalytic α subunit and a regulatory β subunit. Four α isoforms of the Na⁺/K⁺-ATPase are found in mammals, each with a unique expression pattern and catalytic activity. The α₂ isoform, encoded by the ATP1A2 gene, is primarily found in the central nervous system (CNS) and in heart-, skeletal- and smooth muscle tissues. In the CNS, the α₂ isoform is mainly expressed in glial cells. In particular, the α₂ isoform is found in astrocytes, important for astrocytic K⁺ clearance and, consequently, the indirect uptake of neurotransmitters. Both processes are essential for proper brain activity, and autosomal dominantly mutations in the ATP1A2 gene cause the neurological disorder Familial hemiplegic migraine type 2 (FHM2). FHM2 is a severe subtype of migraine with aura including temporary numbness or weakness, and affecting only one side of the body. FHM2 patients often suffer from neurological comorbidities such as seizures, sensory disturbances, cognitive impairment, and psychiatric manifestations. The functional consequences of FHM2 disease mutations leads to a partial or complete loss of function of pump activity; however, a clear phenotype-genotype correlation has yet to be elucidated. Gene-modified mouse models targeting the Atp1a2 gene have proved instrumental in the understanding of the pathology of FHM2. Several Atp1a2 knockout (KO) mice targeting different exons have been reported. Homozygous Atp1a2 KO mice die shortly after birth due to respiratory malfunction resulting from abnormal Cl⁻ homeostasis in brainstem neurons. Heterozygous KO mice are viable, but display altered behavior and neurological deficits such as altered spatial learning, decreased motor activity and enhanced fear/anxiety compared to wild type mice. FHM2 knock-in (KI) mouse models carrying the human in vivo disease mutations W887R and G301R have also been reported. Both models display altered cortical spreading depression (CSD) and point to deficits in the glutamatergic system as the main underlying mechanism of FHM2.

The neuronal porosome complex in health and disease

Cup-shaped secretory portals at the cell plasma membrane called porosomes mediate the precision release of intravesicular material from cells. Membrane-bound secretory vesicles transiently dock and fuse at the base of porosomes facing the cytosol to expel pressurized intravesicular contents from the cell during secretion. The structure, isolation, composition, and functional reconstitution of the neuronal porosome complex have greatly progressed, providing a molecular understanding of its function in health and disease. Neuronal porosomes are 15 nm cup-shaped lipoprotein structures composed of nearly 40 proteins, compared to the 120 nm nuclear pore complex composed of >500 protein molecules. Membrane proteins compose the porosome complex, making it practically impossible to solve its atomic structure. However, atomic force microscopy and small-angle X-ray solution scattering studies have provided three-dimensional structural details of the native neuronal porosome at sub-nanometer resolution, providing insights into the molecular mechanism of its function. The participation of several porosome proteins previously implicated in neurotransmission and neurological disorders, further attest to the crosstalk between porosome proteins and their coordinated involvement in release of neurotransmitter at the synapse.

The Na+/K+-ATPase and the amyloid-beta peptide aβ1-40 control the cellular distribution, abundance and activity of TRPC6 channels

The Na(+)/K(+)-ATPase interacts with the non-selective cation channels TRPC6 but the functional consequences of this association are unknown. Experiments performed with HEK cells over-expressing TRPC6 channels showed that inhibiting the activity of the Na(+)/K(+)-ATPase with ouabain reduced the amount of TRPC6 proteins and depressed Ca(2+) entry through TRPC6. This effect, not mimicked by membrane depolarization with KCl, was abolished by sucrose and bafilomycin-A, and was partially sensitive to the intracellular Ca(2+) chelator BAPTA/AM. Biotinylation and subcellular fractionation experiments showed that ouabain caused a multifaceted redistribution of TRPC6 to the plasma membrane and to an endo/lysosomal compartment where they were degraded. The amyloid beta peptide Aβ(1-40), another inhibitor of the Na(+)/K(+)-ATPase, but not the shorter peptide Aβ1-16, reduced TRPC6 protein levels and depressed TRPC6-mediated responses. In cortical neurons from embryonic mice, ouabain, veratridine (an opener of voltage-gated Na(+) channel), and Aβ(1-40) reduced TRPC6-mediated Ca(2+) responses whereas Aβ(1-16) was ineffective. Furthermore, when Aβ(1-40) was co-added together with zinc acetate it could no longer control TRPC6 activity. Altogether, this work shows the existence of a functional coupling between the Na(+)/K(+)-ATPase and TRPC6. It also suggests that the abundance, distribution and activity of TRPC6 can be regulated by cardiotonic steroids like ouabain and the naturally occurring peptide Aβ(1-40) which underlines the pathophysiological significance of these processes.

α-synuclein assemblies sequester neuronal α3-Na+/K+-ATPase and impair Na+ gradient

Extracellular α-synuclein (α-syn) assemblies can be up-taken by neurons; however, their interaction with the plasma membrane and proteins has not been studied specifically. Here we demonstrate that α-syn assemblies form clusters within the plasma membrane of neurons. Using a proteomic-based approach, we identify the α3-subunit of Na+/K+-ATPase (NKA) as a cell surface partner of α-syn assemblies. The interaction strength depended on the state of α-syn, fibrils being the strongest, oligomers weak, and monomers none. Mutations within the neuron-specific α3-subunit are linked to rapid-onset dystonia Parkinsonism (RDP) and alternating hemiplegia of childhood (AHC). We show that freely diffusing α3-NKA are trapped within α-syn clusters resulting in α3-NKA redistribution and formation of larger nanoclusters. This creates regions within the plasma membrane with reduced local densities of α3-NKA, thereby decreasing the efficiency of Na+ extrusion following stimulus. Thus, interactions of α3-NKA with extracellular α-syn assemblies reduce its pumping activity as its mutations in RDP/AHC.

Multiple functions of neuronal plasma membrane neurotransmitter transporters

Removal from receptors of neurotransmitters just released into synapses is one of the major steps in neurotransmission. Transporters situated on the plasma membrane of nerve endings and glial cells perform the process of neurotransmitter (re)uptake. Because the density of transporters in the membranes can fluctuate, transporters can determine the transmitter concentrations at receptors, thus modulating indirectly the excitability of neighboring neurons. Evidence is accumulating that neurotransmitter transporters can exhibit multiple functions. Being bidirectional, neurotransmitter transporters can mediate transmitter release by working in reverse, most often under pathological conditions that cause ionic gradient dysregulations. Some transporters reverse to release transmitters, like dopamine or serotonin, when activated by 'indirectly acting' substrates, like the amphetamines. Some transporters exhibit as one major function the ability to capture transmitters into nerve terminals that perform insufficient synthesis. Transporter activation can generate conductances that regulate directly neuronal excitability. Synaptic and non-synaptic transporters play different roles. Cytosolic Na(+) elevations accompanying transport can interact with plasmalemmal or/and mitochondrial Na(+)/Ca(2+) exchangers thus generating calcium signals. Finally, neurotransmitter transporters can behave as receptors mediating releasing stimuli able to cause transmitter efflux through multiple mechanisms. Neurotransmitter transporters are therefore likely to play hitherto unknown roles in multiple therapeutic treatments.

Mass Spectrometry in Pharmacokinetic Studies of a Synthetic Compound for Spinal Cord Injury Treatment

The studies of drugs that could constitute a palliative to spinal cord injury (SCI) are a continuous and increasing demand in biomedicine field from developed societies. Recently we described the chemical synthesis and antiglioma activity of synthetic glycosides. A synthetic sulfated glycolipid (here IG20) has shown chemical stability, solubility in polar solvents, and high inhibitory capacity over glioma growth. We have used mass spectrometry (MS) to monitor IG20 (m/z = 550.3) in cells and tissues of the central nervous system (CNS) that are involved in SCI recovery. IG20 was detected by MS in serum and homogenates from CNS tissue of rats, though in the latter a previous deproteinization step was required. The pharmacokinetic parameters of serum clearance at 24 h and half-life at 4 h were determined for synthetic glycoside in the adult rat using MS. A local administration of the drug near of spinal lesion site is proposed.

Molecular basis of the dominant negative effect of a glycine transporter 2 mutation associated with hyperekplexia

Hyperekplexia or startle disease is a rare clinical syndrome characterized by an exaggerated startle in response to trivial tactile or acoustic stimuli. This neurological disorder can have serious consequences in neonates, provoking brain damage and/or sudden death due to apnea episodes and cardiorespiratory failure. Hyperekplexia is caused by defective inhibitory glycinergic neurotransmission. Mutations in the human SLC6A5 gene encoding the neuronal GlyT2 glycine transporter are responsible for the presynaptic form of the disease. GlyT2 mediates synaptic glycine recycling, which constitutes the main source of releasable transmitter at glycinergic synapses. Although the majority of GlyT2 mutations detected so far are recessive, a dominant negative mutant that affects GlyT2 trafficking does exist. In this study, we explore the properties and structural alterations of the S512R mutation in GlyT2. We analyze its dominant negative effect that retains wild-type GlyT2 in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), preventing surface expression. We show that the presence of an arginine rather than serine 512 provoked transporter misfolding, enhanced association to the ER-chaperone calnexin, altered association with the coat-protein complex II component Sec24D, and thereby impeded ER exit. The S512R mutant formed oligomers with wild-type GlyT2 causing its retention in the ER. Overexpression of calnexin rescued wild-type GlyT2 from the dominant negative effect of the mutant, increasing the amount of transporter that reached the plasma membrane and dampening the interaction between the wild-type and mutant GlyT2. The ability of chemical chaperones to overcome the dominant negative effect of the disease mutation on the wild-type transporter was demonstrated in heterologous cells and primary neurons.

Presynaptic control of glycine transporter 2 (GlyT2) by physical and functional association with plasma membrane Ca2+-ATPase (PMCA) and Na+-Ca2+ exchanger (NCX)

Fast inhibitory glycinergic transmission occurs in spinal cord, brainstem, and retina to modulate the processing of motor and sensory information. After synaptic vesicle fusion, glycine is recovered back to the presynaptic terminal by the neuronal glycine transporter 2 (GlyT2) to maintain quantal glycine content in synaptic vesicles. The loss of presynaptic GlyT2 drastically impairs the refilling of glycinergic synaptic vesicles and severely disrupts neurotransmission. Indeed, mutations in the gene encoding GlyT2 are the main presynaptic cause of hyperekplexia in humans. Here, we show a novel endogenous regulatory mechanism that can modulate GlyT2 activity based on a compartmentalized interaction between GlyT2, neuronal plasma membrane Ca(2+)-ATPase (PMCA) isoforms 2 and 3, and Na(+)/Ca(2+)-exchanger 1 (NCX1). This GlyT2·PMCA2,3·NCX1 complex is found in lipid raft subdomains where GlyT2 has been previously found to be fully active. We show that endogenous PMCA and NCX activities are necessary for GlyT2 activity and that this modulation depends on lipid raft integrity. Besides, we propose a model in which GlyT2·PMCA2-3·NCX complex would help Na(+)/K(+)-ATPase in controlling local Na(+) increases derived from GlyT2 activity after neurotransmitter release.

Glycine transporters GlyT1 and GlyT2 are differentially modulated by glycogen synthase kinase 3β

Inhibitory glycinergic neurotransmission is terminated by the specific glycine transporters GlyT1 and GlyT2 which actively reuptake glycine from the synaptic cleft. GlyT1 is associated with both glycinergic and glutamatergic pathways, and is the main regulator of the glycine levels in the synapses. GlyT2 is the main supplier of glycine for vesicle refilling, a process that is vital to preserve the quantal glycine content in synaptic vesicles. Therefore, to control glycinergic neurotransmission efficiently, GlyT1 and GlyT2 activity must be regulated by diverse neuronal and glial signaling pathways. In this work, we have investigated the possible functional modulation of GlyT1 and GlyT2 by glycogen synthase kinase 3 (GSK3β). This kinase is involved in mood stabilization, neurodegeneration and plasticity at excitatory and inhibitory synapses. The co-expression of GSK3β with GlyT1 or GlyT2 in COS-7 cells and Xenopus laevis oocytes, leads to inhibition and stimulation of GlyT1 and GlyT2 activities, respectively, with a decrease of GlyT1, and an increase in GlyT2 levels at the plasma membrane. The specificity of these changes is supported by the antagonism exerted by a catalytically inactive form of the kinase and through inhibitors of GSK3β such as lithium chloride and TDZD-8. GSK3β also increases the incorporation of 32Pi into GlyT1 and decreases that of GlyT2. The pharmacological inhibition of the endogenous GSK3β in neuron cultures of brainstem and spinal cord leads to an opposite modulation of GlyT1 and GlyT2.Our results suggest that GSK3β is important for stabilizing and/or controlling the expression of functional GlyTs on the neural cell surface.

Sarcosine preconditioning induces ischemic tolerance against global cerebral ischemia

Brain ischemic tolerance is an endogenous protective mechanism activated by a preconditioning stimulus that is closely related to N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor (NMDAR). Glycine transporter type 1 (GlyT-1) inhibitors potentiate NMDAR and suggest an alternative strategy for brain preconditioning. The aim of this work was to evaluate the effects of brain preconditioning induced by sarcosine, a GlyT-1 inhibitor, against global cerebral ischemia and its relation to NMDAR. Sarcosine was administered over 7 days (300 or 500 mg/kg/day, ip) before the induction of a global cerebral ischemia model in Wistar rats (male, 8-week-old). It was observed that sarcosine preconditioning reduced cell death in rat hippocampi submitted to cerebral ischemia. Hippocampal levels of glycine were decreased in sarcosine-treated animals, which was associated with a reduction of [(3)H] glycine uptake and a decrease in glycine transporter expression (GlyT-1 and GlyT-2). The expression of glycine receptors and the NR1 and NR2A subunits of NMDAR were not affected by sarcosine preconditioning. However, sarcosine preconditioning reduced the expression of the NR2B subunits of NMDAR. In conclusion, these data demonstrate that sarcosine preconditioning induces ischemic tolerance against global cerebral ischemia and this neuroprotective state is associated with changes in glycine transport and reduction of NR2B-containing NMDAR expression.