Identification and characterization of a Ca(2+)-sensitive nonspecific cation channel underlying prolonged repetitive firing in Aplysia neurons

New insights into the physiology and pathophysiology of the atypical sodium leak channel NALCN

Cell excitability and its modulation by hormones and neurotransmitters involve the concerted action of a large repertoire of membrane proteins, especially ion channels. Unique complements of coexpressed ion channels are exquisitely balanced against each other in different excitable cell types, establishing distinct electrical properties that are tailored for diverse physiological contributions, and dysfunction of any component may induce a disease state. A crucial parameter controlling cell excitability is the resting membrane potential (RMP) set by extra- and intracellular concentrations of ions, mainly Na+, K+, and Cl-, and their passive permeation across the cell membrane through leak ion channels. Indeed, dysregulation of RMP causes significant effects on cellular excitability. This review describes the molecular and physiological properties of the Na+ leak channel NALCN, which associates with its accessory subunits UNC-79, UNC-80, and NLF-1/FAM155 to conduct depolarizing background Na+ currents in various excitable cell types, especially neurons. Studies of animal models clearly demonstrate that NALCN contributes to fundamental physiological processes in the nervous system including the control of respiratory rhythm, circadian rhythm, sleep, and locomotor behavior. Furthermore, dysfunction of NALCN and its subunits is associated with severe pathological states in humans. The critical involvement of NALCN in physiology is now well established, but its study has been hampered by the lack of specific drugs that can block or agonize NALCN currents in vitro and in vivo. Molecular tools and animal models are now available to accelerate our understanding of how NALCN contributes to key physiological functions and the development of novel therapies for NALCN channelopathies.

Sodium-mediated plateau potentials in an identified decisional neuron contribute to feeding-related motor pattern genesis in Aplysia

Motivated behaviors such as feeding depend on the functional properties of decision neurons to provide the flexibility required for behavioral adaptation. Here, we analyzed the ionic basis of the endogenous membrane properties of an identified decision neuron (B63) that drive radula biting cycles underlying food-seeking behavior in Aplysia. Each spontaneous bite cycle arises from the irregular triggering of a plateau-like potential and resultant bursting by rhythmic subthreshold oscillations in B63's membrane potential. In isolated buccal ganglion preparations, and after synaptic isolation, the expression of B63's plateau potentials persisted after removal of extracellular calcium, but was completely suppressed in a tetrodotoxin (TTX)- containing bath solution, thereby indicating the contribution of a transmembrane Na⁺ influx. Potassium outward efflux through tetraethylammonium (TEA)- and calcium-sensitive channels was found to contribute to each plateau's active termination. This intrinsic plateauing capability, in contrast to B63's membrane potential oscillation, was blocked by the calcium-activated non-specific cationic current (I_CAN) blocker flufenamic acid (FFA). Conversely, the SERCA blocker cyclopianozic acid (CPA), which abolished the neuron's oscillation, did not prevent the expression of experimentally evoked plateau potentials. These results therefore indicate that the dynamic properties of the decision neuron B63 rely on two distinct mechanisms involving different sub-populations of ionic conductances.

Hydrogen peroxide and phosphoinositide metabolites synergistically regulate a cation current to influence neuroendocrine cell bursting

In various neurons, including neuroendocrine cells, non-selective cation channels elicit plateau potentials and persistent firing. Reproduction in the marine snail Aplysia californica is initiated when the neuroendocrine bag cell neurons undergo an afterdischarge, that is, a prolonged period of enhanced excitability and spiking during which egg-laying hormone is released into the blood. The afterdischarge is associated with both the production of hydrogen peroxide (H₂ O₂ ) and activation of phospholipase C (PLC), which hydrolyses phosphatidylinositol-4,5-bisphosphate into diacylglycerol (DAG) and inositol trisphosphate (IP₃ ). We previously demonstrated that H₂ O₂ gates a voltage-dependent cation current and evokes spiking in bag cell neurons. The present study tests if DAG and IP₃ impact the H₂ O₂ -induced current and excitability. In whole-cell voltage-clamped cultured bag cell neurons, bath-application of 1-oleoyl-2-acetyl-sn-glycerol (OAG), a DAG analogue, enhanced the H₂ O₂ -induced current, which was amplified by the inclusion of IP₃ in the pipette. A similar outcome was produced by the PLC activator, N-(3-trifluoromethylphenyl)-2,4,6-trimethylbenzenesulfonamide. In current-clamp, OAG or OAG plus IP₃ , elevated the frequency of H₂ O₂ -induced bursting. PKC is also triggered during the afterdischarge; when PKC was stimulated with phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate, it caused a voltage-dependent inward current with a reversal potential similar to the H₂ O₂ -induced current. Furthermore, PKC activation followed by H₂ O₂ reduced the onset latency and increased the duration of action potential firing. Finally, inhibiting nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase with 3-benzyl-7-(2-benzoxazolyl)thio-1,2,3-triazolo[4,5-d]pyrimidine diminished evoked bursting in isolated bag cell neuron clusters. These results suggest that reactive oxygen species and phosphoinostide metabolites may synergize and contribute to reproductive behaviour by promoting neuroendocrine cell firing. KEY POINTS: Aplysia bag cell neurons secrete reproductive hormone during a lengthy burst of action potentials, known as the afterdischarge. During the afterdischarge, phospholipase C (PLC) hydrolyses phosphatidylinositol-4,5-bisphosphate into diacylglycerol (DAG) and inositol trisphosphate (IP₃ ). Subsequent activation of protein kinase C (PKC) leads to H₂ O₂ production. H₂ O₂ evokes a voltage-dependent inward current and action potential firing. Both a DAG analogue, 1-oleoyl-2-acetyl-sn-glycerol (OAG), and IP₃ enhance the H₂ O₂ -induced current, which is mimicked by the PLC activator, N-(3-trifluoromethylphenyl)-2,4,6-trimethylbenzenesulfonamide. The frequency of H₂ O₂ -evoked afterdischarge-like bursting is augmented by OAG or OAG plus IP₃ . Stimulating PKC with phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate shortens the latency and increases the duration of H₂ O₂ -induced bursts. The nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase inhibitor, 3-benzyl-7-(2-benzoxazolyl)thio-1,2,3-triazolo[4,5-d]pyrimidine, attenuates burst firing in bag cell neuron clusters.

Tyrosine Phosphorylation Determines Afterdischarge Initiation by Regulating an Ionotropic Cholinergic Receptor

Changes to neuronal activity often involve a rapid and precise transition from low to high excitability. In the marine snail, Aplysia, the bag cell neurons control reproduction by undergoing an afterdischarge, which begins with synaptic input releasing acetylcholine to open an ionotropic cholinergic receptor. Gating of this receptor causes depolarization and a shift from silence to continuous action potential firing, leading to the neuroendocrine secretion of egg-laying hormone and ovulation. At the onset of the afterdischarge, there is a rise in intracellular Ca²⁺, followed by both protein kinase C (PKC) activation and tyrosine dephosphorylation. To determine whether these signals influence the acetylcholine ionotropic receptor, we examined the bag cell neuron cholinergic response both in culture and isolated clusters using whole-cell and/or sharp-electrode electrophysiology. The acetylcholine-induced current was not altered by increasing intracellular Ca²⁺ via voltage-gated Ca²⁺ channels, clamping intracellular Ca²⁺ with exogenous Ca²⁺ buffers, or activating PKC with phorbol esters. However, lowering phosphotyrosine levels by inhibiting tyrosine kinases both reduced the cholinergic current and prevented acetylcholine from triggering action potentials or afterdischarge-like bursts. In other systems, acetylcholine receptors are often modulated by multiple signals, but bag cell neurons appear to be more restrictive in this regard. Prior work finds that, as the afterdischarge proceeds, tyrosine dephosphorylation leads to biophysical alterations that promote persistent firing. Because this firing is subsequent to the cholinergic input, inhibiting the acetylcholine receptor may represent a means of properly orchestrating synaptically induced changes in excitability.

Nicotine inhibits potassium currents in Aplysia bag cell neurons

Acetylcholine and the archetypal cholinergic agonist, nicotine, are typically associated with the opening of ionotropic receptors. In the bag cell neurons, which govern the reproductive behavior of the marine snail, Aplysia californica, there are two cholinergic responses: a relatively large acetylcholine-induced current and a relatively small nicotine-induced current. Both currents are readily apparent at resting membrane potential and result from the opening of distinct ionotropic receptors. We now report a separate current response elicited by applying nicotine to cultured bag cell neurons under whole cell voltage-clamp. This current was ostensibly inward, best resolved at depolarized voltages, presented a noncooperative dose-response with a half-maximal concentration near 1.5 mM, and associated with a decrease in membrane conductance. The unique nicotine-evoked response was not altered by intracellular perfusion with the G protein blocker GDPβS or exposure to classical nicotinic antagonists but was occluded by replacing intracellular K(+) with Cs(+) Consistent with an underlying mechanism of direct inhibition of one or more K(+) channels, nicotine was found to rapidly reduce the fast-inactivating A-type K(+) current as well as both components of the delayed-rectifier K(+) current. Finally, nicotine increased bag cell neuron excitability, which manifested as reduction in spike threshold, greater action potential height and width, and markedly more spiking to continuous depolarizing current injection. In contrast to conventional transient activation of nicotinic ionotropic receptors, block of K(+) channels could represent a nonstandard means for nicotine to profoundly alter the electrical properties of neurons over prolonged periods of time.

Ca2+ removal by the plasma membrane Ca2+-ATPase influences the contribution of mitochondria to activity-dependent Ca2+ dynamics in Aplysia neuroendocrine cells

After Ca(2+) influx, mitochondria can sequester Ca(2+) and subsequently release it back into the cytosol. This form of Ca(2+)-induced Ca(2+) release (CICR) prolongs Ca(2+) signaling and can potentially mediate activity-dependent plasticity. As Ca(2+) is required for its subsequent release, Ca(2+) removal systems, like the plasma membrane Ca(2+)-ATPase (PMCA), could impact CICR. Here we examine such a role for the PMCA in the bag cell neurons of Aplysia californica CICR is triggered in these neurons during an afterdischarge and is implicated in sustaining membrane excitability and peptide secretion. Somatic Ca(2+) was measured from fura-PE3-loaded cultured bag cell neurons recorded under whole cell voltage clamp. Voltage-gated Ca(2+) influx was elicited with a 5-Hz, 1-min train, which mimics the fast phase of the afterdischarge. PMCA inhibition with carboxyeosin or extracellular alkalization augmented the effectiveness of Ca(2+) influx in eliciting mitochondrial CICR. A Ca(2+) compartment model recapitulated these findings and indicated that disrupting PMCA-dependent Ca(2+) removal increases CICR by enhancing mitochondrial Ca(2+) loading. Indeed, carboxyeosin augmented train-evoked mitochondrial Ca(2+) uptake. Consistent with their role on Ca(2+) dynamics, cell labeling revealed that the PMCA and mitochondria overlap with Ca(2+) entry sites. Finally, PMCA-dependent Ca(2+) extrusion did not impact endoplasmic reticulum-dependent Ca(2+) removal or release, despite the organelle residing near Ca(2+) entry sites. Our results demonstrate that Ca(2+) removal by the PMCA influences the propensity for stimulus-evoked CICR by adjusting the amount of Ca(2+) available for mitochondrial Ca(2+) uptake. This study highlights a mechanism by which the PMCA could impact activity-dependent plasticity in the bag cell neurons.

Acetylcholine-evoked afterdischarge in Aplysia bag cell neurons

A brief synaptic input to the bag cell neurons of Aplysia evokes a lengthy afterdischarge and the secretion of peptide hormones that trigger ovulation. The input transmitter is unknown, although prior work has shown that afterdischarges are prevented by strychnine. Because molluscan excitatory cholinergic synapses are blocked by strychnine, we tested the hypothesis that acetylcholine acts on an ionotropic receptor to initiate the afterdischarge. In cultured bag cell neurons, acetylcholine induced a short burst of action potentials followed by either return to near baseline or, like a true afterdischarge, transition to continuous firing. The current underlying the acetylcholine-induced depolarization was dose dependent, associated with increased membrane conductance, and sensitive to the nicotinic antagonists hexamethonium, mecamylamine, and α-conotoxin ImI. Whereas nicotine, choline, carbachol, and glycine did not mimic acetylcholine, tetramethylammonium did produce a similar current. Consistent with an ionotropic receptor, the response was not altered by intracellular dialysis with the G protein blocker guanosine 5′-(β-thio)diphosphate. Recording from the intact bag cell neuron cluster showed acetylcholine to evoke prominent depolarization, which often led to extended bursting, but only in the presence of the acetylcholinesterase inhibitor neostigmine. Extracellular recording confirmed that exogenous acetylcholine caused genuine afterdischarges, which, as per those generated synaptically, rendered the cluster refractory to further stimulation. Finally, treatment with a combination of mecamylamine and α-conotoxin ImI blocked synaptically induced afterdischarges in the intact bag cell neuron cluster. Acetylcholine appears to elicit the afterdischarge through an ionotropic receptor. This represents an expedient means for transient stimulation to elicit prolonged firing in the absence of ongoing synaptic input.

Role for protein kinase C in controlling Aplysia bag cell neuron excitability

Targeting signalling molecules to ion channels can expedite regulation and assure the proper transition of changes to excitability. In the bag cell neurons of Aplysia, single-channel studies of excised patches have revealed that protein kinase C (PKC) gates a non-selective cation channel through a close, physical association. This channel drives a prolonged afterdischarge and concomitant neuropeptide secretion to provoke reproductive behaviour. However, it is not clear if PKC alters cation channel function and/or the membrane potential at the whole-cell level. Afterdischarge-like depolarizations can be evoked in cultured bag cell neurons by bath-application of Conus textile venom (CtVm), which triggers the cation channel through an apparent intracellular pathway. The present study shows that the CtVm-induced depolarization was reduced by nearly 50% compared to control following dialysis with the G-protein blocker, guanosine-5'-O-2-thiodiphosphate (GDP-β-S), or treatment with either the phospholipase C inhibitor, 1-[6-[[(17β)-3-Methoxyestra-1,3,5(10)-trien-17-yl]amino]hexyl]-1H-pyrrole-2,5-dione (U-73122), or the PKC inhibitor, sphinganine. Neurons exposed to the PKC activator, phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA), displayed depolarization with accompanying spiking, and were found to be far more responsive to depolarizing current injection versus control. Immunocytochemical staining for the two typical Aplysia PKC isoforms, Apl I and Apl II, revealed that both kinases were present in unstimulated cultured bag cell neurons. However, in CtVm-treated neurons, the staining intensity for PKC Apl I increased, peaking at 10 min post-application. Conversely, the intensity of PKC Apl II staining decreased over the duration of CtVm exposure. Our results suggest that the CtVm-induced depolarization involves PKC activation, and is consistent with prior work showing PKC closely-associating with the cation channel to produce the depolarization necessary for the afterdischarge and species propagation.

Multiple firing patterns in deep dorsal horn neurons of the spinal cord: computational analysis of mechanisms and functional implications

Deep dorsal horn relay neurons (dDHNs) of the spinal cord are known to exhibit multiple firing patterns under the control of local metabotropic neuromodulation: tonic firing, plateau potential, and spontaneous oscillations. This work investigates the role of interactions between voltage-gated channels and the occurrence of different firing patterns and then correlates these two phenomena with their functional role in sensory information processing. We designed a conductance-based model using the NEURON software package, which successfully reproduced the classical features of plateau in dDHNs, including a wind-up of the neuronal response after repetitive stimulation. This modeling approach allowed us to systematically test the impact of conductance interactions on the firing patterns. We found that the expression of multiple firing patterns can be reproduced by changes in the balance between two currents (L-type calcium and potassium inward rectifier conductances). By investigating a possible generalization of the firing state switch, we found that the switch can also occur by varying the balance of any hyperpolarizing and depolarizing conductances. This result extends the control of the firing switch to neuromodulators or to network effects such as synaptic inhibition. We observed that the switch between the different firing patterns occurs as a continuous function in the model, revealing a particular intermediate state called the accelerating mode. To characterize the functional effect of a firing switch on information transfer, we used correlation analysis between a model of peripheral nociceptive afference and the dDHN model. The simulation results indicate that the accelerating mode was the optimal firing state for information transfer.

Mitochondrial Ca2+ Activates a Cation Current in Aplysia Bag Cell Neurons

Ion channels may be gated by Ca2+ entering from the extracellular space or released from intracellular stores—typically the endoplasmic reticulum. The present study examines how Ca2+ impacts ion channels in the bag cell neurons of Aplysia californica. These neuroendocrine cells trigger ovulation through an afterdischarge involving Ca2+ influx from Ca2+ channels and Ca2+ release from both the mitochondria and endoplasmic reticulum. Liberating mitochondrial Ca2+ with the protonophore, carbonyl cyanide-4-trifluoromethoxyphenyl-hydrazone (FCCP), depolarized bag cell neurons, whereas depleting endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ with the Ca2+-ATPase inhibitor, cyclopiazonic acid, did not. In a concentration-dependent manner, FCCP elicited an inward current associated with an increase in conductance and a linear current/voltage relationship that reversed near −40 mV. The reversal potential was unaffected by changing intracellular Cl−, but left-shifted when extracellular Ca2+ was removed and right-shifted when intracellular K+ was decreased. Strong buffering of intracellular Ca2+ decreased the current, although the response was not altered by blocking Ca2+-dependent proteases. Furthermore, fura imaging demonstrated that FCCP elevated intracellular Ca2+ with a time course similar to the current itself. Inhibiting either the V-type H+-ATPase or the ATP synthetase failed to produce a current, ruling out acidic Ca2+ stores or disruption of ATP production as mechanisms for the FCCP response. Similarly, any involvement of reactive oxygen species potentially produced by mitochondrial depolarization was mitigated by the fact that dialysis with xanthine/xanthine oxidase did not evoke an inward current. However, both the FCCP-induced current and Ca2+ elevation were diminished by disabling the mitochondrial permeability transition pore with the alkylating agent, N-ethylmaleimide. The data suggest that mitochondrial Ca2+ gates a voltage-independent, nonselective cation current with the potential to drive the afterdischarge and contribute to reproduction. Employing Ca2+ from mitochondria, rather than the more common endoplasmic reticulum, represents a diversification of the mechanisms that influence neuronal activity.

Persistent Ca2+ Current Contributes to a Prolonged Depolarization in Aplysia Bag Cell Neurons

Neurons may initiate behavior or store information by translating prior activity into a lengthy change in excitability. For example, brief input to the bag cell neurons of Aplysia results in an approximate 30-min afterdischarge that induces reproduction. Similarly, momentary stimulation of cultured bag cells neurons evokes a prolonged depolarization lasting many minutes. Contributing to this is a voltage-independent cation current activated by Ca2+ entering during the stimulus. However, the cation current is relatively short-lived, and we hypothesized that a second, voltage-dependent persistent current sustains the prolonged depolarization. In bag cell neurons, the inward voltage-dependent current is carried by Ca2+; thus we tested for persistent Ca2+ current in primary culture under voltage clamp. The observed current activated between −40 and −50 mV exhibited a very slow decay, presented a similar magnitude regardless of stimulus duration (10–60 s), and, like the rapid Ca2+ current, was enhanced when Ba2+ was the permeant ion. The rapid and persistent Ca2+ current, but not the cation current, were Ni2+ sensitive. Consistent with the persistent current contributing to the response, Ni2+ reduced the amplitude of a prolonged depolarization evoked under current clamp. Finally, protein kinase C activation enhanced the rapid and persistent Ca2+ current as well as increased the prolonged depolarization when elicited by an action potential-independent stimulus. Thus the prolonged depolarization arises from Ca2+ influx triggering a cation current, followed by voltage-dependent activation of a persistent Ca2+ current and is subject to modulation. Such synergy between currents may represent a common means of achieving activity-dependent changes to excitability.

Regulation of cation channel voltage and Ca2+ dependence by multiple modulators

Ion channel regulation is key to controlling neuronal excitability. However, the extent that modulators and gating factors interact to regulate channels is less clear. For Aplysia, a nonselective cation channel plays an essential role in reproduction by driving an afterdischarge in the bag cell neurons to elicit egg-laying hormone secretion. We examined the regulation of cation channel voltage and Ca2+ dependence by protein kinase C (PKC) and inositol trisphosphate (IP3)-two prominent afterdischarge signals. In excised, inside-out patches, the channel remained open longer and reopened more often with depolarization from -90 to +30 mV. As previously reported, PKC could closely associate with the channel and increase activity at -60 mV. We now show that, following the effects of PKC, voltage dependence was shifted to the left (essentially enhanced), particularly at more negative voltages. Conversely, the voltage dependence of channels lacking PKC was shifted to the right (essentially suppressed). Predictably, activity was increased at all Ca2+ concentrations following the effects of PKC; nevertheless, Ca2+ dependence was actually shifted to the right. Moreover, whereas IP3 did not alter activity at -60 mV, it drastically shifted Ca2+ dependence to the right-an outcome largely reversed by PKC. With respect to the afterdischarge, these data suggest PKC initially upregulates the channel by direct gating and shifting voltage dependence to the left. Subsequently, PKC and IP3 attenuate the channel by suppressing Ca2+ dependence. This ensures hormone delivery by allowing afterdischarge initiation and maintenance but also prevents interminable bursting. Similar regulatory interactions may be used by other neurons to achieve diverse outputs.

Flufenamic acid affects multiple currents and causes intracellular Ca2+ release in Aplysia bag cell neurons

Flufenamic acid (FFA) is a nonsteroidal antiinflammatory agent, commonly used to block nonselective cation channels. We previously reported that FFA potentiated, rather than inhibited, a cation current in Aplysia bag cell neurons. Prompted by this paradoxical result, the present study examined the effects of FFA on membrane currents and intracellular Ca2+ in cultured bag cell neurons. Under whole cell voltage clamp, FFA evoked either outward (I out) or inward (I in) currents. I out had a rapid onset, was inhibited by the K+ channel blocker, tetraethylammonium, and was associated with both an increase in membrane conductance and a negative shift in the whole cell current reversal potential. I in developed more slowly, was inhibited by the cation channel blocker, Gd3+, and was concomitant with both an increased conductance and positive shift in reversal potential. FFA also enhanced the use-dependent inactivation and caused a positive-shift in the activation curve of the voltage-dependent Ca2+ current. Furthermore, as measured by ratiometric imaging, FFA produced a rise in intracellular Ca2+ that persisted in the absence of extracellular Ca2+ and was reduced by depleting either the endoplasmic reticulum and/or mitochondrial stores. Ca2+ appeared to be involved in the activation of I in, as strong intracellular Ca2+ buffering effectively eliminated I in but did not alter I out. Finally, the effects of FFA were likely not due to block of cyclooxygenase given that the general cyclooxygenase inhibitor, indomethacin, failed to evoke either current. That FFA influences a number of neuronal properties needs to be taken into consideration when employing it as a cation channel antagonist.

Synchronous and asynchronous bursting states: role of intrinsic neural dynamics

Brain signals such as local field potentials often display gamma-band oscillations (30-70 Hz) in a variety of cognitive tasks. These oscillatory activities possibly reflect synchronization of cell assemblies that are engaged in a cognitive function. A type of pyramidal neurons, i.e., chattering neurons, show fast rhythmic bursting (FRB) in the gamma frequency range, and may play an active role in generating the gamma-band oscillations in the cerebral cortex. Our previous phase response analyses have revealed that the synchronization between the coupled bursting neurons significantly depends on the bursting mode that is defined as the number of spikes in each burst. Namely, a network of neurons bursting through a Ca(2+)-dependent mechanism exhibited sharp transitions between synchronous and asynchronous firing states when the neurons exchanged the bursting mode between singlet, doublet and so on. However, whether a broad class of bursting neuron models commonly show such a network behavior remains unclear. Here, we analyze the mechanism underlying this network behavior using a mathematically tractable neuron model. Then we extend our results to a multi-compartment version of the NaP current-based neuron model and prove a similar tight relationship between the bursting mode changes and the network state changes in this model. Thus, the synchronization behavior couples tightly to the bursting mode in a wide class of networks of bursting neurons.

Activity-Dependent Initiation of a Prolonged Depolarization in Aplysia Bag Cell Neurons: Role for a Cation Channel

The translation of prior activity into changes in excitability is essential for memory and the initiation of behavior. After brief synaptic input, the bag cell neurons of Aplysia californica undergo a nearly 30-min afterdischarge to release egg-laying hormone. The present study examines a prolonged depolarization in cultured bag cell neurons. A 5-Hz, 10-s action potential train elicited a depolarization of about 10 mV, which lasted ≤30 min and was reduced by calmodulin kinase inhibition. Very broad action potentials (resulting from TEA application) decreased prolonged depolarization amplitude, indicating that strong Ca2+ influx did not necessarily promote the response. The prolonged depolarization current ( IPD) was recorded after 5-Hz, 10-s trains of square voltage pulses of varying duration (10–150 ms). Despite Ca2+ influx increasing steadily with pulse duration, IPD was most reliably initiated at 100 ms, suggesting a Ca2+ window or limit exists for triggering IPD. Consistent with this, modestly broader action potentials, evoked by lengthening the train current-pulse duration, resulted in smaller prolonged depolarizations. With respect to the properties of IPD, it displayed a linear current–voltage relationship with a reversal potential of about −45 mV that was shifted to approximately −25 mV by lowering internal K+ or about −56 mV by lowering external Na+ and Ca2+. IPD was blocked by Gd3+, but was not antagonized by MDL-123302A, SKF-96365, 2-APB, tetrodotoxin, or flufenamic acid. Optimal Ca2+ influx may activate calmodulin kinase and a voltage-independent, nonselective cation channel to initiate the prolonged depolarization, thereby contributing to the afterdischarge and reproduction.

Effects of flufenamic acid on fictive locomotion, plateau potentials, calcium channels and NMDA receptors in the lamprey spinal cord

A Ca(2+)-activated, non-selective cation current (I(CAN)) has been suggested to contribute to plateau potentials in lamprey reticulospinal neurons, providing the drive for locomotor initiation. Flufenamic acid (FFA) is commonly used as a blocker of I(CAN). To explore the effects of FFA on spinal locomotor pattern generation, we induced fictive locomotion in the isolated lamprey spinal cord. Bath-applied FFA (100-200microM) caused a marked reduction of amplitude and regularity of the locomotor burst activity. We next analyzed the NMDA-induced membrane potential oscillations in single spinal neurons. The duration of depolarizing plateaus was markedly reduced when applying FFA, suggesting an involvement of I(CAN). However, in experiments with intracellular injection of the Ca(2+) chelator BAPTA, and in the presence of the K(Ca)-channel blocker apamin, no support was found for an involvement of I(CAN). We therefore explored alternative explanations of the effects of FFA. FFA reduced the size of the slow, Ca(2+)-dependent afterhyperpolarization, suggesting an influence on calcium channels. FFA also reduced the NMDA component of reticulospinal EPSPs as well as NMDA-induced depolarizing responses, demonstrating an influence on NMDA receptors. These non-selective effects of FFA can account for its influence on fictive locomotion and on membrane potential oscillations and thus, a specific involvement of the I(CAN) current in the lamprey spinal cord is not supported.

Ca2+-dependent regulation of a non-selective cation channel from Aplysia bag cell neurones

Ca2+-activated, non-selective cation channels feature prominently in the regulation of neuronal excitability, yet the mechanism of their Ca2+ activation is poorly defined. In the bag cell neurones of Aplysia californica, opening of a voltage-gated, non-selective cation channel initiates a long-lasting afterdischarge that induces egg-laying behaviour. The present study used single-channel recording to investigate Ca2+ activation in this cation channel. Perfusion of Ca2+ onto the cytoplasmic face of channels in excised, inside-out patches yielded a Ca2+ activation EC50 of 10 microm with a Hill coefficient of 0.66. Increasing Ca2+ from 100 nm to 10 microm caused an apparent hyperpolarizing shift in the open probability (Po) versus voltage curve. Beyond 10 microm Ca2+, additional changes in voltage dependence were not evident. Perfusion of Ba2+ onto the cytoplasmic face did not alter Po; moreover, in outside-out recordings, Po was decreased by replacing external Ca2+ with Ba2+ as a charge carrier, suggesting Ca2+ influx through the channel may provide positive feedback. The lack of Ba2+ sensitivity implicated calmodulin in Ca2+ activation. Consistent with this, the application to the cytoplasmic face of calmodulin antagonists, calmidazolium and calmodulin-binding domain, reduced Po, whereas exogenous calmodulin increased Po. Overall, the data indicated that the cation channel is activated by Ca2+ through closely associated calmodulin. Bag cell neurone intracellular Ca2+ rises markedly at the onset of the afterdischarge, which would enhance channel opening and promote bursting to elicit reproduction. Cation channels are essential to nervous system function in many organisms, and closely associated calmodulin may represent a widespread mechanism for their Ca2+ sensitivity.

Mechanisms of postinhibitory rebound and its modulation by serotonin in excitatory swim motor neurons of the medicinal leech

Postinhibitory rebound (PIR) is defined as membrane depolarization occurring at the offset of a hyperpolarizing stimulus and is one of several intrinsic properties that may promote rhythmic electrical activity. PIR can be produced by several mechanisms including hyperpolarization-activated cation current (I(h)) or de-inactivation of depolarization-activated inward currents. Excitatory swim motor neurons in the leech exhibit PIR in response to injected current pulses or inhibitory synaptic input. Serotonin, a potent modulator of leech swimming behavior, increases the peak amplitude of PIR and decreases its duration, effects consistent with supporting rhythmic activity. In this study, we performed current clamp experiments on dorsal excitatory cell 3 (DE-3) and ventral excitatory cell 4 (VE-4). We found a significant difference in the shape of PIR responses expressed by these two cell types in normal saline, with DE-3 exhibiting a larger prolonged component. Exposing motor neurons to serotonin eliminated this difference. Cs+ had no effect on PIR, suggesting that I(h) plays no role. PIR was suppressed completely when low Na+ solution was combined with Ca2+-channel blockers. Our data support the hypothesis that PIR in swim motor neurons is produced by a combination of low-threshold Na+ and Ca2+ currents that begin to activate near -60 mV.

Activation of a calcium entry pathway by sodium pyrithione in the bag cell neurons ofAplysia

The ability of sodium pyrithione (NaP), an agent that produces delayed neuropathy in some species, to alter neuronal physiology was accessed using ratiometric imaging of cytosolic free Ca(2+) concentration ([Ca(2+)](i)) in fura PE-filled cultured Aplysia bag cell neurons. Bath-application of NaP evoked a [Ca(2+)](i) elevation in both somata and neurites with an EC(50) of approximately 300 nM and a Hill coefficient of approximately 1. The response required the presence of external Ca(2+), had an onset of 3-5 min, and generally reached a maximum within 30 min. 2-Methyl-sulfonylpyridine, a metabolite and close structural analog of NaP, did not elevate [Ca(2+)](i). Under whole-cell current-clamp recording, NaP produced a approximately 14 mV depolarization of resting membrane potential that was dependent on external Ca(2+). These data suggested that NaP stimulates Ca(2+) entry across the plasma membrane. To minimize the possibility that a change in cytosolic pH was the basis for NaP-induced Ca(2+) entry, bag cell neuron intracellular pH was estimated with the dye 2',7'-bis(carboxyethyl-5(6)-carboxy-fluorescein acetoxy methylester. Exposure of the neurons to NaP did not alter intracellular pH. The slow onset and sustained nature of the NaP response suggested that a cation exchange mechanism coupled either directly or indirectly to Ca(2+) entry could underlie the phenomenon. However, neither ouabain, a Na(+)/K(+) ATPase inhibitor, nor removal of extracellular Na(+), which eliminates Na(+)/Ca(2+) exchanger activity, altered the NaP-induced [Ca(2+)](i) elevation. Finally, the possibility that NaP gates a Ca(2+)-permeable ion channel in the plasma membrane was examined. NaP did not appear to activate two major forms of bag cell neuron Ca(2+)-permeable ion channels, as Ca(2+) entry was unaffected by inhibition of voltage-gated Ca(2+) channels using nifedipine or by inhibition of a voltage-dependent, nonselective cation channel using a high concentration of tetrodotoxin. In contrast, two potential store-operated Ca(2+) entry current inhibitors, SKF-96365 and Ni(2+), attenuated NaP-induced Ca(2+) entry. We conclude that NaP activates a slow, persistent Ca(2+) influx in Aplysia bag cell neurons.

Calcium signaling components of oscillating invertebrate neurons in vitro

We have studied the Ca(2+) dynamics of bursting-spiking neurons in the lobster stomatogastric ganglion. Neurons in this ganglion undergo spontaneous oscillations in membrane voltage with a period of 1-10 s in situ. We found that neurons isolated from the ganglion and filled with the fluorescent calcium indicator Fluo-4 show simultaneous changes of membrane potential and cytoplasmic Ca(2+) concentration ([Ca(2+)](I)). These Ca(2+) signals are highly heterogeneous both in terms of amplitude and time constants. They showed variable spatial distributions with the soma exhibiting low and slow signals, and a region in the process with large and fast signals. Ca(2+) transients in the processes are dependent on external Ca(2+) and can be blocked by Co(2+), but not other, more specific Ca(2+) current blockers. Rather, nifedipine a known Ca(2+) current blocker, affects the distribution of the Ca(2+) signal, which suggests a specific localization of Ca(2+) channels. Although the signal is not absolutely dependent on action potentials, it is greatly reduced when action potentials are blocked by tetrodotoxin. Termination of the signal depends only slightly on Ca(2+) buffering mechanisms such as mitochondria, Ca(2+)/Na(+) and Ca(2+)/H(+) exchangers. We also demonstrate the presence of caffeine-sensitive internal stores in stomatogastric ganglion cells. The store distribution is different but overlaps with the voltage-dependent distribution. The maximal caffeine-activated Ca(2+) signal is in the soma and it is smaller in the processes. Unlike the voltage-activated Ca(2+) signal this signal is not blocked by Co(2+). Nevertheless, the two types of signal interact during caffeine application. This unique spatial separation of two Ca(2+) sources may have important functional implication.

The role of Ca2+-dependent cationic current in generating gamma frequency rhythmic bursts: modeling study

Fast rhythmic bursting pyramidal neuron or chattering neuron is a promising candidate for the pacemaker of coherent gamma-band (25-70 Hz) cortical oscillation. It, however, still remains to be clarified how the neuron generates such high-frequency bursts. Here, we demonstrate in a single-compartment model neuron that the fast rhythmic bursts (FRBs) can be achieved through Ca2+-activated channels in the entire gamma frequency range. In a previous in vitro study, a subset of rat cortical pyramidal cells displayed a long-lasting depolarizing afterpotential (DAP) following a plateau-type action potential when K+ conductances were suppressed with Cs+, and this DAP was found to be mediated by a Ca2+-dependent cationic current. This current appeared also suitable for producing a hump-like DAP, a characteristic of the chattering neurons, because of its reversal potential being approximately -40 mV. In the present theoretical study, we show that the enhancement of such a DAP leads to generation of doublet/triplet spikes seen during FRBs. The firing pattern during FRBs is primarily determined by a Ca2+-dependent cationic current and a small-conductance Ca2+-dependent potassium current, which are differentially activated by a biphasically decaying Ca2+ transient produced by fast buffering and a slow pump extrusion after each spike. With varying intensities of injected current pulses, the interburst frequencies of the FRBs range over the entire gamma frequency band (25-70 Hz) in our model, while the intraburst frequencies remain higher than 300 Hz. Our model suggests that FRBs are essentially generated in the soma, unlike the model based on a persistent sodium current, and that the alteration of Ca2+ sensitivity of Ca2+-dependent cationic current plays an essential role in controlling the FRB pattern.

Prolonged activation of Ca2+-activated K+ current contributes to the long-lasting refractory period of Aplysia bag cell neurons

Stimulation of the bag cell neurons of Aplysia activates several biochemical pathways, including protein kinase C (PKC), and alters their excitability for many hours. After an approximately 30 min afterdischarge, these neurons enter an approximately 18 hr inhibited state during which additional stimulation fails to evoke discharges. In vivo, this refractory period limits the frequency of reproductive behaviors associated with egg laying. We have now examined the role of Ca2+-activated K+ (BK) currents in the refractory period. Outward currents gated by both intracellular Ca2+ and depolarization, with pharmacological characteristics of BK currents, were recorded in isolated bag cell neurons. These currents were enhanced by the BK channel activators phloretin and 1,3-dihydro-1-[2-hydroxy-5-(trifluoro-methyl)phenyl]-5-trifluoromethyl-2H-benzimidazol-2-one and inhibited by the BK blocker paxilline. The BK component of K+ current was enhanced by 12-O-tetradecanoyl-phorbol-13-acetate, an activator of PKC, and this effect was blocked by sphinganine and PKC(19-36), inhibitors of PKC in bag cell neurons. To test whether the BK current is altered during the refractory period, intact clusters were stimulated to afterdischarge, and neurons were isolated after the clusters had entered the refractory period. Compared with unstimulated cells, current density was almost doubled in refractory neurons. This increase in current was inhibited by preincubating clusters in sphinganine. Treatment of refractory clusters with paxilline significantly restored the ability of stimulation to evoke afterdischarges. Conversely, application of phloretin to previously unstimulated clusters inhibited the onset of afterdischarges. These results indicate that a prolonged increase in BK channel activity contributes to the prolonged refractory period of the bag cell neurons.

Protein kinase modulation of a neuronal cation channel requires protein-protein interactions mediated by an Src homology 3 domain

Accumulating evidence suggests that many ion channels reside within a multiprotein complex that contains kinases and other signaling molecules. The role of the adaptor proteins that physically link these complexes together for the purposes of ion channel modulation, however, has been little explored. Here, we examine the protein-protein interactions required for regulation of an Aplysia bag cell neuron cation channel by a closely associated protein kinase C (PKC). In inside-out patches, the PKC-dependent enhancement of cation channel open probability could be prevented by the src homology 3 (SH3) domain, presumably by disrupting a link between the channel and the kinase. SH3 and PDZ domains from other proteins were ineffective. Modulation was also prevented by an SH3 motif peptide that preferentially binds the SH3 domain of src. Furthermore, whole-cell depolarizations elicited by cation channel activation were decreased by the src SH3 domain. These data suggest that the cation channel-PKC association may require SH3 domain-mediated interactions to bring about modulation, promote membrane depolarization, and initiate prolonged changes in bag cell neuron excitability. In general, protein-protein interactions between ion channels and protein kinases may be a prominent mechanism underlying neuromodulation.

Ionic currents and spontaneous firing in neurons isolated from the cerebellar nuclei

Neurons of the cerebellar nuclei fire spontaneous action potentials both in vitro, with synaptic transmission blocked, and in vivo, in resting animals, despite ongoing inhibition from spontaneously active Purkinje neurons. We have studied the intrinsic currents of cerebellar nuclear neurons isolated from the mouse, with an interest in understanding how these currents generate spontaneous activity in the absence of synaptic input as well as how they allow firing to continue during basal levels of inhibition. Current-clamped isolated neurons fired regularly ( approximately 20 Hz), with shallow interspike hyperpolarizations (approximately -60 mV), much like neurons in more intact preparations. The spontaneous firing frequency lay in the middle of the dynamic range of the neurons and could be modulated up or down with small current injections. During step or action potential waveform voltage-clamp commands, the primary current active at interspike potentials was a tetrodotoxin-insensitive (TTX), cesium-insensitive, voltage-independent, cationic flux carried mainly by sodium ions. Although small, this cation current could depolarize neurons above threshold voltages. Voltage- and current-clamp recordings suggested a high level of inactivation of the TTX-sensitive transient sodium currents that supported action potentials. Blocking calcium currents terminated firing by preventing repolarization to normal interspike potentials, suggesting a significant role for K(Ca) currents. Potassium currents that flowed during action potential waveform voltage commands had high activation thresholds and were sensitive to 1 mm TEA. We propose that, after the decay of high-threshold potassium currents, the tonic cation current contributes strongly to the depolarization of neurons above threshold, thus maintaining the cycle of firing.

Activation of protein kinase C by oxytocin-related conopressin underlies pacemaker current in Lymnaea central neurons

The vasopressin/oxytocin-related neuropeptide Lys-conopressin activates two pacemaker currents in central neurons of the mollusk Lymnaea stagnalis. A high-voltage-activated current (I-HVA) is activated at potentials greater than -40 mV and resembles pacemaker currents found in many molluscan neurons. A low-voltage-activated current (I-LVA) activates throughout the range of -90 to 0 mV. Based on sequence homologies, Lymnaea conopressin receptors are thought to couple to Q-type G proteins and protein kinase C (PKC). Alternatively, agonist-induced pacemaker currents in molluscan neurons have traditionally been attributed to cAMP-dependent protein kinase (PKA) activation. Accordingly, this study aimed at resolving possible involvement of cAMP/PKA and diacylglycerol/PKC in the conopressin response. Injection of cAMP into anterior lobe neurons induced a slow inward current with a voltage dependence resembling that of I(LVA) (and not I(HVA)). However, lack of effect of the phosphodiesterase inhibitor 3-isobutyl-1-methylxanthine and the absence of cross-desensitization between cAMP and conopressin suggest that neither current is dependent on intracellular cAMP. The PKC-activating phorbol ester 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol 13-acetate (but not inactive phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate) mimicked activation of I(HVA), but not I(LVA), and occluded subsequent responses to conopressin. Activation of I(HVA) was blocked by general protein kinase inhibitors and the PKC-inhibitor GF-109203X. Modulation of the calcium buffering capacity of the pipette medium did not affect the conopressin response, suggesting that calcium dynamics are not of major importance. We conclude that conopressin activates the ion channels carrying I(LVA) and I(HVA) through different second-messenger cascades and that PKC-dependent phosphorylation underlies activation of I(HVA).

Neural electrophysiological effect of crude venom of conus textile from the south China Sea

In the present study, we characterized effects of the crude venom from Conus textile, a marine molluscivorous snail collected from the South China Sea, on neural electrophysiological activity in insect, molluscan and mammalian species. Our results demonstrate that the venom reversibly blocks the cholinergic synaptic transmission of cockroach Periplaneta americana central nervous system, partially blocks Na(+) currents in rat hippocampal CA(1) pyramidal neurons, and enhances the excitability and spontaneous activity of the giant neurons of garden snail Achatina fulica.

A cellular mechanism for the transformation of a sensory input into a motor command

The initiation and control of locomotion largely depend on processing of sensory inputs. The cellular bases of locomotion have been extensively studied in lampreys where reticulospinal (RS) neurons constitute the main descending system activating and controlling the spinal locomotor networks. Ca(2+) imaging and intracellular recordings were used to study the pattern of activation of RS neurons in response to cutaneous stimulation. Pressure applied to the skin evoked a linear input/output relationship in RS neurons until a threshold level, at which a depolarizing plateau was induced, the occurrence of which was associated with the onset of swimming activity in a semi-intact preparation. The occurrence of a depolarizing plateau was abolished by blocking the NMDA receptors that are located on RS cells. Moreover, the depolarizing plateaus were accompanied by a rise in [Ca(2+)](i), and an intracellular injection of the Ca(2+) chelator BAPTA into single RS cells abolished the plateaus, suggesting that the latter are Ca(2+) dependent and rely on intrinsic properties of RS cells. The plateaus were shown to result from the activation of a Ca(2+)-activated nonselective cation current that maintains the cell in a depolarized state. It is concluded that this intrinsic property of the RS neuron is then responsible for the transformation of an incoming sensory signal into a motor command that is then forwarded to the spinal locomotor networks.

Activation of a Ca2+-permeable cation channel produces a prolonged attenuation of intracellular Ca2+ release in Aplysia bag cell neurones

1. Brief synaptic stimulation, or exposure to Conus textile venom (CtVm), triggers an afterdischarge in the bag cell neurones of Aplysia. This is associated with an elevation of intracellular calcium ([Ca2+]i) through Ca2+ release from intracellular stores and Ca2+ entry through voltage-gated Ca2+ channels and a non-selective cation channel. The afterdischarge is followed by a prolonged (approximately 18 h) refractory period during which the ability of both electrical stimulation and CtVm to trigger afterdischarges or elevate [Ca2+]i is severely attenuated. By measuring the response of isolated cells to CtVm, we have now tested the contribution of different sources of Ca2+ elevation to the onset of the prolonged refractory period. CtVm induced an increase in [Ca2+]i in both normal and Ca2+-free saline, in part by liberating Ca2+ from a store sensitive to thapsigargin or cyclopiazonic acid, but not sensitive to heparin. 3. In the presence of extracellular Ca2+, the neurones became refractory to CtVm after a single application but recovered following approximately 24 h, when CtVm could again elevate [Ca2+]i. However, this refractoriness did not develop if CtVm was applied in Ca2+-free saline. Thus, elevation of [Ca2+]i alone does not induce refractoriness to CtVm-induced [Ca2+]i elevation, but Ca2+ influx triggers this refractory-like state. 4. CtVm produces a depolarization of isolated bag cell neurones. To determine if Ca2+ influx through voltage-gated Ca2+ channels, activated during this depolarization, caused refractoriness to CtVm-induced [Ca2+]i elevation, cells were depolarized with high external potassium (60 mM), which produced a large increase in [Ca2+]i. Nevertheless, subsequent exposure of the cells to CtVm produced a normal response, suggesting that Ca2+ influx through voltage-gated Ca2+ channels does not induce refractoriness. 5. As a second test for the role of voltage-gated Ca2+ channels, these channels were blocked with nifedipine. This drug failed to prevent the onset of refractoriness to CtVm-induced [Ca2+]i elevation, providing further evidence that Ca2+ entry through voltage-gated Ca2+ channels does not initiate refractoriness. 6. To examine if Ca2+ entry through the CtVm-activated, non-selective cation channel caused refractoriness, neurones were treated with a high concentration of TTX, which blocks the cation channel. TTX protected the neurones from the refractoriness to [Ca2+]i elevation produced by CtVm in Ca2+-containing medium. 7. Using clusters of bag cell neurones in intact abdominal ganglia, we compared the ability of nifedipine and TTX to protect the cells from refractoriness to electrical stimulation. Normal, long-lasting afterdischarges could be triggered by stimulation of an afferent input after a period of exposure to CtVm in the presence of TTX. In contrast, exposure to CtVm in the presence of nifedipine resulted in refractoriness. 8. Our data indicate that Ca2+ influx through the non-selective cation channel renders cultured bag cell neurones refractory to repeated stimulation with CtVm. Moreover, the refractory period of the afterdischarge itself may also be initiated by Ca2+ entry through this cation channel.

Ionic basis for plateau potentials in deep dorsal horn neurons of the rat spinal cord

Approximately 28% of dorsal horn neurons (DHNs) in lamina V of the rat spinal cord generate voltage-dependent plateau potentials underlying accelerating discharges and prolonged afterdischarges in response to steady current pulses or stimulation of nociceptive primary afferent fibers. Using intracellular recordings in a transverse slice preparation of the cervical spinal cord, we have analyzed the ionic mechanisms involved in the generation and maintenance of plateau potentials in lamina V DHNs. Both the accelerating discharges and afterdischarges were reversibly blocked by Mn(2+) and enhanced when Ca(2+) was substituted with Ba(2+). The underlying tetrodotoxin-resistant regenerative depolarization was sensitive to dihydropyridines, being blocked by nifedipine and enhanced by Bay K 8644. Substitution of extracellular Na(+) with N-methyl-D-glucamine or choline strongly decreased the duration of the plateau potential. Loading the neurons with the calcium chelator BAPTA did not change the initial response but clearly decreased the maximum firing frequency and the duration of the afterdischarge. A similar effect was obtained with flufenamate, a specific blocker of the calcium-activated nonspecific cation current (I(CAN)). We conclude that the plateau potential of deep DHNs is supported by both Ca(2+) influx through intermediate-threshold voltage-gated calcium channels of the L-type and by subsequent activation of a CAN current. Ca(2+) influx during the plateau is potentially of importance for pain integration and the associated sensitization in spinal cord.

Muscarinic receptors regulate two different calcium-dependent non-selective cation currents in rat prefrontal cortex

Pyramidal neurons of layer V in rat prefrontal cortex display a prominent fast afterdepolarization (fADP) and a muscarinic-induced slow afterdepolarization (sADP). We have shown previously that both of these ADPs are produced by the activation of calcium-dependent non-selective cation currents. In the present report we examine whether they represent two distinct currents. In most pyramidal neurons recorded with caesium gluconate-based intracellular solution, a calcium spike is followed by a fast decaying inward aftercurrent (IfADP). The decay of IfADP is monoexponential with a time constant (t) of approximately 35 ms. Administration of carbachol (10-30 microm) increases the time constant of this decay by approximately 80% and induces the appearance of a much slower inward aftercurrent (IsADP). IfADP recorded in control conditions and in the presence of carbachol increases linearly with membrane hyperpolarization. In contrast, the carbachol-induced IsADP decreases with membrane hyperpolarization. When the sodium driving force across the cell membrane was reduced, IfADP was found to reverse at around -40 mV whereas IsADP remain inward over the same voltage range tested. Finally, bath administration of flufenamic acid (100 microm-1 mm) selectively blocks the carbachol-induced IsADP without a significant effect on the amplitude of IfADP. These differences in the electrical and pharmacological properties of IfADP and IsADP suggest that they were mediated by two distinct non-selective cation currents.

Modulation of a calcium-sensitive nonspecific cation channel by closely associated protein kinase and phosphatase activities

Regulation of nonspecific cation channels often underlies neuronal bursting and other prolonged changes in neuronal activity. In bag cell neurons of Aplysia, it recently has been suggested that an intracellular messenger-induced increase in the activity of a nonspecific cation channel may underlie the onset of a 30-min period of spontaneous action potentials referred to as the "afterdischarge. " In patch clamp studies of the channel, we show that the open probability of the channel can be increased by an average of 10. 7-fold by application of ATP to the cytoplasmic side of patches. Duration histograms indicate that the increase is primarily a result of a reduction in the duration and percentage of channel closures described by the slowest time constant. The increase in open probability was not observed using 5'-adenylylimidodiphosphate, a nonhydrolyzable ATP analog, and was blocked in the presence of H7 or the more specific calcium/phospholipid-dependent protein kinase C (PKC) inhibitor peptide(19-36). Because the increase in activity observed in response to ATP occurred without application of protein kinase, our results indicate that a kinase endogenous to excised patches mediates the effect. The effect of ATP could be reversed by exogenously applied protein phosphatase 1 or by a microcystin-sensitive phosphatase also endogenous to excised patches. These results, together with work demonstrating the presence of a protein tyrosine phosphatase in these patches, suggest that the cation channel is part of a regulatory complex including at least three enzymes. This complex may act as a molecular switch to activate the cation channel and, thereby, trigger the afterdischarge.

Ionic mechanism of the slow afterdepolarization induced by muscarinic receptor activation in rat prefrontal cortex

The mammalian prefrontal cortex receives a dense cholinergic innervation from subcortical regions. We previously have shown that cholinergic stimulation of layer V pyramidal neurons of the rat prefrontal cortex results in a depolarization and the appearance of a slow afterdepolarization (sADP). In the current report we examine the mechanism underlying the sADP with the use of sharp microelectrode and whole cell recording techniques in in vitro brain slices. The ability of acetylcholine (ACh) and carbachol to induce the appearance of an sADP in pyramidal cells of layer V of prefrontal cortex is antagonized in a surmountable manner by atropine and is mimicked by application of muscarine or oxotremorine. These results indicate that ACh acts on muscarinic receptors to induce the sADP. In many cell types afterpotentials are triggered by calcium influx into the cell. Therefore we examined the possibility that calcium influx might be the trigger for the generation of the sADP. Consistent with this possibility, buffering intracellular calcium reduced or abolished the sADP but had little effect on the direct muscarinic receptor-induced depolarization also seen in these cells. These results, coupled to the previous observation that calcium channel blockers inhibit the sADP, indicated that the sADP results from a rise in intracellular calcium secondary to calcium influx into the cell. The ionic basis for the current underlying the sADP (IsADP) was examined with the use of ion substitution experiments. The amplitude of IsADP was found to be reduced in a graded fashion by replacement of extracellular sodium with N-methyl-D-glucamine (NMDG). In contrast no clear evidence for the involvement of potassium or chloride channels in the generation of the sADP or IsADP could be found. This result indicated that IsADP is carried by sodium ions flowing into the cell. However, the dependence of IsADP on extracellular sodium was less pronounced than expected for a pure sodium current. We interpret these results to indicate that the sADP is most likely mediated by nonselective cation channels. Examination of the current underlying the sADP at different voltages indicated that this current was also voltage dependent, turning off with hyperpolarization. We conclude that the sADP elicited by muscarinic receptor activation in rat cortex is mediated predominantly by a calcium- and voltage-sensitive nonselective cation current. This current could represent an important mechanism through which ACh can regulate neuronal excitability in prefrontal cortex.

Conopressin affects excitability, firing, and action potential shape through stimulation of transient and persistent inward currents in mulluscan neurons

The molluscan vasopressin/oxytocin-related neuropeptide conopressin activates two persistent inward currents in neurons from the anterior lobe of the right cerebral ganglion of Lymnaea stagnalis that are involved in the control of male copulatory behavior. The low-voltage-activated (LVA) current is activated at a wide range of membrane potentials, its amplitude being only weakly voltage dependent. The high-voltage-activated (HVA) current is activated at potentials positive to -40 mV only and shows a steep voltage dependence. Occurrence of both currents varies from cell to cell, some expressing both and others only the HVA current. In most neurons that have the LVA current, a conopressin-independent persistent inward current (INSR) is found that resembles the HVA current in its voltage dependence. The functional importance of the LVA and HVA currents was studied under current-clamp conditions in isolated anterior lobe neurons. In cells exhibiting both current types, the effect of activation of the LVA current alone was investigated as follows: previously recorded LVA current profiles were injected into the neurons, and the effects were compared with responses induced by conopressin. Both treatments resulted in a strong depolarization and firing activity. No differences in firing frequency and burst duration were observed, indicating that activation of the LVA current is sufficient to evoke bursts. In cells exhibiting only the HVA current, the effect of conopressin on the response to a depolarizing stimulus was tested. Conopressin reversibly increased the number of action potentials generated by the stimulus, suggesting that the HVA current enhances excitability and counteracts accommodation. Conopressin enhanced action potential broadening during depolarizing stimuli in many neurons. Voltage-clamp experiments performed under ion-selective conditions revealed the presence of transient sodium and calcium currents. Using the action potential clamp technique, it was shown that both currents contribute to the action potential. The calcium current, which is activated mainly during the repolarizing phase of the action potential, is augmented by conopressin. Thus conopressin may directly modulate the shape of the action potential. In summary, conopressin may act simultaneously on multiple inward currents in anterior lobe neurons of Lymnaea to affect firing activity, excitability, and action potential shape.

A phenytoin-sensitive cationic current participates in generating the afterdepolarization and burst afterdischarge in rat neocortical pyramidal cells

We report here on the ionic mechanisms underlying the depolarizing afterpotential (DAP) in neocortical pyramidal cells, with special interest in those underlying the burst afterdischarge. Injections of short depolarizing current pulses under whole-cell current clamp with a CsCl-based internal medium generated, in most pyramidal cells, a single action potential with a plateau phase (plateau-AP), followed by a slowly decaying DAP both in the absence and presence of TTX. Under voltage-clamp, the same cells displayed a slow tail current (tail-I) at the offset of depolarization. When intracellular free Ca2+ was chelated with 10 mM BAPTA or when extracellular Ca2+ was replaced with equimolar Ba2+, neither the slow DAP nor the slow tail-I was observed. Extracellular application of Co2+ or Cd2+ reduced Ca2+ currents and the slow tail-I. Cation substitution experiments revealed that the channel generating the slow tail-I was permeable to K+ and Cs+ more than to Na+ (PK is approximately equal to PCs > PNa > PNMDG is approximately equal to PTEA). The cationic slow tail-I was not reduced by applying antagonists of the metabotropic glutamate receptor (MCPG, 1 mM) and the muscarinic receptor (atropine, 1-10 microM). Thus, the slow DAP was produced by activation of the cationic channel whose gating is solely dependent on [Ca2+]i. An increase in [K+]o from 3 to 6 or 9 mM enhanced the slow DAP, and resulted in a generation of burst afterdischarges. An anticonvulsant, phenytoin (PT; 1-10 microM) suppressed the slow DAP while enhancing the plateau-AP in the presence of TTX, most likely by blocking the cationic channel.