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Bhoi JD, Goel M, Ribelayga CP, Mangel SC. Circadian clock organization in the retina: From clock components to rod and cone pathways and visual function. Prog Retin Eye Res 2023; 94:101119. [PMID: 36503722 PMCID: PMC10164718 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2022.101119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2020] [Revised: 08/22/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Circadian (24-h) clocks are cell-autonomous biological oscillators that orchestrate many aspects of our physiology on a daily basis. Numerous circadian rhythms in mammalian and non-mammalian retinas have been observed and the presence of an endogenous circadian clock has been demonstrated. However, how the clock and associated rhythms assemble into pathways that support and control retina function remains largely unknown. Our goal here is to review the current status of our knowledge and evaluate recent advances. We describe many previously-observed retinal rhythms, including circadian rhythms of morphology, biochemistry, physiology, and gene expression. We evaluate evidence concerning the location and molecular machinery of the retinal circadian clock, as well as consider findings that suggest the presence of multiple clocks. Our primary focus though is to describe in depth circadian rhythms in the light responses of retinal neurons with an emphasis on clock control of rod and cone pathways. We examine evidence that specific biochemical mechanisms produce these daily light response changes. We also discuss evidence for the presence of multiple circadian retinal pathways involving rhythms in neurotransmitter activity, transmitter receptors, metabolism, and pH. We focus on distinct actions of two dopamine receptor systems in the outer retina, a dopamine D4 receptor system that mediates circadian control of rod/cone gap junction coupling and a dopamine D1 receptor system that mediates non-circadian, light/dark adaptive regulation of gap junction coupling between horizontal cells. Finally, we evaluate the role of circadian rhythmicity in retinal degeneration and suggest future directions for the field of retinal circadian biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob D Bhoi
- Ruiz Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, McGovern Medical School, UTHEALTH-The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA; Neuroscience Honors Research Program, William Marsh Rice University, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Manvi Goel
- Department of Neuroscience, Wexner Medical Center, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Christophe P Ribelayga
- Ruiz Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, McGovern Medical School, UTHEALTH-The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA; Neuroscience Honors Research Program, William Marsh Rice University, Houston, TX, USA.
| | - Stuart C Mangel
- Department of Neuroscience, Wexner Medical Center, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA.
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Fan Y, Li J, Huang L, Wang K, Zhao M. 7-Methylxanthine Influences the Behavior of ADORA2A-DRD2 Heterodimers in Human Retinal Pigment Epithelial Cells. Ophthalmic Res 2022; 65:678-684. [PMID: 35724635 DOI: 10.1159/000525563] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The goal of this study was to investigate the presence of ADORA2A-DRD2 heterodimers in human retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells; determine if 7-methylxanthine (7-MX), a nonselective adenosine receptor antagonist which was used to control myopia progression, can influence the behavior of RPE cells through the ADORA2A-DRD2 receptor pathway; and assess the changes in the expression of signaling molecules during cellular signal transduction. METHODS Human RPE cells were cultured in vitro in the presence or absence of 7-MX. Cell proliferation was evaluated with the CCK-8 assay. Apoptosis and necrosis rates were determined by annexin V-FITC/propidium iodide staining and flow cytometry. Immunofluorescence and coimmunoprecipitation were used to examine the protein expression and colocalization of ADORA2A and DRD2 in RPE cells. ADORA2A and DRD2 were knocked down with small interfering RNAs (siRNAs). Changes in the protein expression of ERK1/2 and phospho-ERK1/2 (pERK 1/2), which are signaling molecules downstream of dopamine receptors, were evaluated by Western blot analysis. RESULTS Immunofluorescence and coimmunoprecipitation showed that ADORA2A and DRD2 were colocalized in RPE cells. The expression of ADORA2A in RPE cells was inhibited by treatment with 50 µmol/L 7-MX for 48 h, and the expression of DRD2, ERK1/2, and pERK1/2 was increased after treatment with 50 µmol/L 7-MX for 48 h. After siRNA-mediated knockdown of DRD2 in RPE cells and further treatment with 50 µmol/L 7-MX for 48 h, the expression of DRD2 was nearly restored to the level observed in the native control. At the experimental concentrations, 7-MX and siRNAs did not affect the proliferation or apoptosis of human RPE cells. CONCLUSIONS ADORA2A and DRD2 heterodimers were present in RPE cells. 7-MX may affect the behaviors of RPE cells through the ADORA2A-DRD2 receptor pathway. 7-MX is an inhibitor of ADORA2A receptors that can prevent inhibition of the DRD2 receptor pathway and increase DRD2 receptor pathway activity. This phenomenon may explain the mechanism of action through which 7-MX can control myopia progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuzhuo Fan
- Institute of Medical Technology, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China, .,Department of Ophthalmology & Clinical Center of Optometry, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China, .,College of Optometry, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China, .,Eye Disease and Optometry Institute, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China, .,Beijing Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Therapy of Retinal and Choroid Diseases, Beijing, China,
| | - Jiarui Li
- Department of Ophthalmology & Clinical Center of Optometry, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China.,College of Optometry, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China.,Eye Disease and Optometry Institute, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Therapy of Retinal and Choroid Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Lvzhen Huang
- Department of Ophthalmology & Clinical Center of Optometry, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China.,College of Optometry, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China.,Eye Disease and Optometry Institute, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Therapy of Retinal and Choroid Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Kai Wang
- Institute of Medical Technology, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China.,Department of Ophthalmology & Clinical Center of Optometry, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China.,College of Optometry, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China.,Eye Disease and Optometry Institute, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Therapy of Retinal and Choroid Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Mingwei Zhao
- Institute of Medical Technology, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China.,Department of Ophthalmology & Clinical Center of Optometry, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China.,College of Optometry, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China.,Eye Disease and Optometry Institute, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Therapy of Retinal and Choroid Diseases, Beijing, China
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Xiao H, Lin S, Jiang D, Lin Y, Liu L, Zhang Q, He J, Chen Y. Association of Extracellular Signal-Regulated Kinase Genes With Myopia: A Longitudinal Study of Chinese Children. Front Genet 2021; 12:654869. [PMID: 34122509 PMCID: PMC8191505 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2021.654869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2021] [Accepted: 04/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective The present study was designed to investigate whether the extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) signaling pathway, a downstream component of dopamine signaling, is involved in myopia among Chinese children. Methods During a 3.5-year follow-up, 488 primary school students were enrolled in this study. Non-cycloplegic spherical equivalent refraction (SE) and other ocular parameters were assessed. Four variants of four genes in the ERK signaling pathway were selected: RASGRF1 rs6495367, PTPN5 rs1550870, PTPRR rs11178469, and PDGFRA rs6554163. SNPscan was used to genotype single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). PLINK software was used to assess the associations of the genetic variants with the occurrence or development of myopia, SE, and other ocular parameters. We created a protein-protein interaction (PPI) network and microRNA (miRNA)-gene network using String and Cytoscape and conducted enrichment analyses on the genes in these networks. Results In total, 426 children (baseline age: 7.28 ± 0.26 years; 236 (55.4%) boys and 190 girls) wereenrolled. After adjusting for confounding factors with 10,000 permutations, children with the CT or TT genotype of PTPN5 rs1550870 were more susceptible to myopia than those with the CC genotype (adjusted p = 0.011). Additionally, PTPN5 rs1550870 was correlated with significant myopic shift and increasing axial length (AL) and lens thickness (LT) but had a negative effect on central corneal thickness (CCT). RASGRF1 rs6495367 was negatively associated with myopic shift (additive: adjusted p = 0.034; dominant: adjusted p = 0.020), myopic SE and AL. PDGFRA rs6554163 TA or AA was negatively associated with increasing LT (adjusted p = 0.033). Evaluation of the effects of SNP-SNP combinations on incident myopia revealed a statistically significant one-locus model: PTPN5 rs1550870 [cross-validation consistency (CVC) = 10/10, adjusted p = 0.0107]. The genes in the PPI and miRNA-gene interaction networks were subjected to enrichment analyses, which suggested that these genes are involved mainly in eye development and dopaminergic synapse-related processes. Conclusion We identified genetic variants of crucial ERK signaling pathway genes that were significantly correlated with myopia and ocular parameter alterations in Chinese children. A combination of gene and miRNA functional analyses with enrichment analyses highlights the regulatory effects associated with ocular development and dopamine biological functions. This study offers novel clues to understand the role of dopamine in the molecular mechanisms of myopia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haishao Xiao
- School of Optometry and Ophthalmology, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Shudan Lin
- School of Optometry and Ophthalmology, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Dandan Jiang
- The Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Yaoyao Lin
- The Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Linjie Liu
- School of Optometry and Ophthalmology, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Qiqi Zhang
- School of Optometry and Ophthalmology, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Juan He
- School of Optometry and Ophthalmology, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Yanyan Chen
- The Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
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Non-visual Opsins and Novel Photo-Detectors in the Vertebrate Inner Retina Mediate Light Responses Within the Blue Spectrum Region. Cell Mol Neurobiol 2020; 42:59-83. [PMID: 33231827 DOI: 10.1007/s10571-020-00997-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2020] [Accepted: 11/03/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
In recent decades, a number of novel non-visual opsin photopigments belonging to the family of G protein- coupled receptors, likely involved in a number of non-image-forming processes, have been identified and characterized in cells of the inner retina of vertebrates. It is now known that the vertebrate retina is composed of visual photoreceptor cones and rods responsible for diurnal/color and nocturnal/black and white vision, and cells like the intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs) and photosensitive horizontal cells in the inner retina, both detecting blue light and expressing the photopigment melanopsin (Opn4). Remarkably, these non-visual photopigments can continue to operate even in the absence of vision under retinal degeneration. Moreover, inner retinal neurons and Müller glial cells have been shown to express other photopigments such as the photoisomerase retinal G protein-coupled receptor (RGR), encephalopsin (Opn3), and neuropsin (Opn5), all able to detect blue/violet light and implicated in chromophore recycling, retinal clock synchronization, neuron-to-glia communication, and other activities. The discovery of these new photopigments in the inner retina of vertebrates is strong evidence of novel light-regulated activities. This review focuses on the features, localization, photocascade, and putative functions of these novel non-visual opsins in an attempt to shed light on their role in the inner retina of vertebrates and in the physiology of the whole organism.
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Ko GYP. Circadian regulation in the retina: From molecules to network. Eur J Neurosci 2020; 51:194-216. [PMID: 30270466 PMCID: PMC6441387 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.14185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2018] [Revised: 08/16/2018] [Accepted: 08/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The mammalian retina is the most unique tissue among those that display robust circadian/diurnal oscillations. The retina is not only a light sensing tissue that relays light information to the brain, it has its own circadian "system" independent from any influence from other circadian oscillators. While all retinal cells and retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) possess circadian oscillators, these oscillators integrate by means of neural synapses, electrical coupling (gap junctions), and released neurochemicals (such as dopamine, melatonin, adenosine, and ATP), so the whole retina functions as an integrated circadian system. Dysregulation of retinal clocks not only causes retinal or ocular diseases, it also impacts the circadian rhythm of the whole body, as the light information transmitted from the retina entrains the brain clock that governs the body circadian rhythms. In this review, how circadian oscillations in various retinal cells are integrated, and how retinal diseases affect daily rhythms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gladys Y-P Ko
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas
- Texas A&M Institute for Neuroscience, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas
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Nikolaeva DA, Astakhova LA, Firsov ML. The effects of dopamine and dopamine receptor agonists on the phototransduction cascade of frog rods. Mol Vis 2019; 25:400-414. [PMID: 31523118 PMCID: PMC6707617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2018] [Accepted: 08/02/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Accumulating evidence suggests that dopamine, the major catecholamine in the vertebrate retina, may modulate cAMP-mediated signaling in photoreceptors to optimize vision in the light/dark cycle. The main putative mechanism of dopamine-induced adaptation changes in photoreceptors is activation of D2-like receptors (D2R), which leads to a decrease of the intracellular cAMP level and reduction of protein kinase A (PKA) activity. However, the mechanisms by which dopamine exerts its regulating effect on the phototransduction cascade remain largely unknown. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of dopamine and dopamine receptor agonists on rod photoresponses. METHODS The experiments were performed on solitary rods of the Rana ridibunda frog. Photoreceptor currents were recorded using a suction pipette technique. The effects of dopamine (0.1-50 µM) and selective dopamine receptor agonists-D1R agonist SKF-38393 (0.1-50 µM), D2R agonist quinpirole (2.5-50 µM), and D1-D2 receptor heterodimer agonist SKF-83959 (50 µM)-were examined. RESULTS We found that, when applied to the rod inner segments (RISs), dopamine and dopamine receptor agonists had no effect on photoresponses. In contrast, the rods responded to dopamine and all agonists applied to their outer segments by decreasing sensitivity to light. At the highest tested concentration (50 µM), the most prominent effect on light sensitivity was induced by D1R agonist SKF-38393, while dopamine, D2R agonist quinpirole, and D1-D2 receptor heterodimer agonist SKF-83959 produced somewhat lower and approximately equal effects. Moreover, SKF-38393 reduced sensitivity at all tested concentrations starting from the smallest one (0.1 µM), whereas dopamine and quinpirole started their action from the higher concentrations of 2.5 µM and 50 µM, respectively. In addition, dopamine, SKF-38393, and quinpirole, on average, did not change the intracellular calcium level as judged from the "exchange current", while SKF-83959 increased it by ~1.3 times. CONCLUSIONS Dopamine induces a decrease in rod sensitivity, mostly by reducing the activation rate of the cascade, and to a much lesser extent, speeding up the turning off of the cascade. The sign of the reaction to all tested drugs, lack of selectivity of dopamine and dopamine receptor agonist action, and analysis of factors that determine sensitivity of photoreceptors suggest that, in rod outer segments (ROSs), dopamine action is mediated by D1-D2 receptor heterodimers but not D1R or D2R alone. This work supports the assumption made earlier by other authors that dopamine exercises its regulatory effect via at least two independent mechanisms, which are cAMP and Ca2+ mediated.
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Chang JYA, Shi L, Ko ML, Ko GYP. Circadian Regulation of Mitochondrial Dynamics in Retinal Photoreceptors. J Biol Rhythms 2019; 33:151-165. [PMID: 29671706 DOI: 10.1177/0748730418762152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Energy expenditure and metabolism in the vertebrate retina are under circadian control, as we previously reported that the overall retinal ATP content and various signaling molecules related to metabolism display daily or circadian rhythms. Changes in the fission and fusion process of mitochondria, the major organelles producing ATP, in retinal photoreceptors are largely dependent on light exposure, but whether mitochondrial dynamics in photoreceptors and retinal neurons are under circadian control is not clear. Herein, we investigated the possible roles of circadian oscillators in regulating mitochondrial dynamics, mitophagy, and redox states in the chicken retina and mammalian photoreceptors. After entrainment to 12:12-h light-dark (LD) cycles for several days followed by free-running in constant darkness (DD), chicken embryonic retinas and cone-derived 661W cells were collected in either LD or DD at 6 different zeitgeber time (ZT) or circadian time (CT) points. The protein expression of mitochondrial dynamin-related protein 1 (DRP1), mitofusin 2 (MFN2), and PTEN-induced putative kinase 1 (PINK1) displayed daily rhythms, but only DRP1 was under circadian control in the chicken retinas and cultured 661W cells. In addition, cultured chicken retinal cells responded to acute oxidative stress differently from 661W cells. Using pMitoTimer as a mitochondrial redox indicator, we found that the mitochondrial redox states were more affected by light exposure than regulated by circadian oscillators. Thus, this study demonstrates that the influence of cyclic lights might outweigh the circadian regulation of complex mitochondrial dynamics in light-sensing retinal cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janet Ya-An Chang
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas.,Interdisciplinary Toxicology Program, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas
| | - Liheng Shi
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas
| | - Michael L Ko
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas
| | - Gladys Y-P Ko
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas.,Interdisciplinary Toxicology Program, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas.,Texas A&M Institute for Neuroscience, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas
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Shi L, Chang JYA, Yu F, Ko ML, Ko GYP. The Contribution of L-Type Ca v1.3 Channels to Retinal Light Responses. Front Mol Neurosci 2017; 10:394. [PMID: 29259539 PMCID: PMC5723326 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2017.00394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2017] [Accepted: 11/10/2017] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
L-type voltage-gated calcium channels (LTCCs) regulate tonic neurotransmitter release from sensory neurons including retinal photoreceptors. There are three types of LTCCs (Cav1.2, Cav1.3, and Cav1.4) expressed in the retina. While Cav1.2 is expressed in all retinal cells including the Müller glia and neurons, Cav1.3 and Cav1.4 are expressed in the retinal neurons with Cav1.4 exclusively expressed in the photoreceptor synaptic terminals. Mutations in the gene encoding Cav1.4 cause incomplete X-linked congenital stationary night blindness in humans. Even though Cav1.3 is present in the photoreceptor inner segments and the synaptic terminals in various vertebrate species, its role in vision is unclear, since genetic alterations in Cav1.3 are not associated with severe vision impairment in humans or in Cav1.3-null (Cav1.3-/-) mice. However, a failure to regulate Cav1.3 was found in a mouse model of Usher syndrome, the most common cause of combined deafness and blindness in humans, indicating that Cav1.3 may contribute to retinal function. In this report, we combined physiological and morphological data to demonstrate the role of Cav1.3 in retinal physiology and function that has been undervalued thus far. Through ex vivo and in vivo electroretinogram (ERG) recordings and immunohistochemical staining, we found that Cav1.3 plays a role in retinal light responses and synaptic plasticity. Pharmacological inhibition of Cav1.3 decreased ex vivo ERG a- and b-wave amplitudes. In Cav1.3-/- mice, their dark-adapted ERG a-, b-wave, and oscillatory potential amplitudes were significantly dampened, and implicit times were delayed compared to the wild type (WT). Furthermore, the density of ribbon synapses was reduced in the outer plexiform layer of Cav1.3-/- mice retinas. Hence, Cav1.3 plays a more prominent role in retinal physiology and function than previously reported.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liheng Shi
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States
| | - Janet Ya-An Chang
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States
| | - Fei Yu
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States
| | - Michael L Ko
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States
| | - Gladys Y-P Ko
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States.,Texas A&M Institute of Neuroscience, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States
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Abstract
Retinas of all classes of vertebrates contain endogenous circadian clocks that control many aspects of retinal physiology, including retinal sensitivity to light, neurohormone synthesis, and cellular events such as rod disk shedding, intracellular signaling pathways, and gene expression. The vertebrate retina is an example of a “peripheral” oscillator that is particularly amenable to study because this tissue is well characterized, the relationships between the various cell types are extensively studied, and many local clock-controlled rhythms are known. Although the existence of a photoreceptor clock is well established in several species, emerging data are consistent with multiple or dual oscillators within the retina that interact to control local physiology. Aprominent example is the antiphasic regulation of melaton in and dopamine in photoreceptors and inner retina, respectively. This review focuses on the similarities and differences in the molecular mechanisms of the retinal versus the SCN oscillators, as well as on the expression of core components of the circadian clockwork in retina. Finally, the interactions between the retinal clock(s) and the master clock in the SCN are examined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla B Green
- Department of Biology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22904, USA.
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Meighan SE, Meighan PC, Rich ED, Brown RL, Varnum MD. Cyclic nucleotide-gated channel subunit glycosylation regulates matrix metalloproteinase-dependent changes in channel gating. Biochemistry 2013; 52:8352-62. [PMID: 24164424 DOI: 10.1021/bi400824x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Cyclic-nucleotide gated (CNG) channels are essential for phototransduction within retinal photoreceptors. We have demonstrated previously that the enzymatic activity of matrix metalloproteinase-2 and -9, members of the matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) family of extracellular, Ca(2+)- and Zn(2+)-dependent proteases, enhances the ligand sensitivity of both rod (CNGA1 and CNGB1) and cone (CNGA3 and CNGB3) CNG channels. Additionally, we have observed a decrease in the maximal CNG channel current (Imax) that begins late during MMP-directed gating changes. Here we demonstrate that CNG channels become nonconductive after prolonged MMP exposure. Concurrent with the loss of conductive channels is the increased relative contribution of channels exhibiting nonmodified gating properties, suggesting the presence of a subpopulation of channels that are protected from MMP-induced gating effects. CNGA subunits are known to possess one extracellular core glycosylation site, located at one of two possible positions within the turret loop near the pore-forming region. Our results indicate that CNGA glycosylation can impede MMP-dependent modification of CNG channels. Furthermore, the relative position of the glycosylation site within the pore turret influences the extent of MMP-dependent proteolysis. Glycosylation at the site found in CNGA3 subunits was found to be protective, while glycosylation at the bovine CNGA1 site was not. Relocating the glycosylation site in CNGA1 to the position found in CNGA3 recapitulated CNGA3-like protection from MMP-dependent processing. Taken together, these data indicate that CNGA glycosylation may protect CNG channels from MMP-dependent proteolysis, consistent with MMP modification of channel function having a requirement for physical access to the extracellular face of the channel.
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Affiliation(s)
- Starla E Meighan
- Program in Neuroscience, Department of Integrative Physiology and Neuroscience, ‡WWAMI Medical Education Program, and §Center for Integrated Biotechnology, Washington State University , P.O. Box 647620, Pullman, Washington 99164, United States
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Dai G, Peng C, Liu C, Varnum MD. Two structural components in CNGA3 support regulation of cone CNG channels by phosphoinositides. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013; 141:413-30. [PMID: 23530136 PMCID: PMC3607822 DOI: 10.1085/jgp.201210944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Cyclic nucleotide-gated (CNG) channels in retinal photoreceptors play a crucial role in vertebrate phototransduction. The ligand sensitivity of photoreceptor CNG channels is adjusted during adaptation and in response to paracrine signals, but the mechanisms involved in channel regulation are only partly understood. Heteromeric cone CNGA3 (A3) + CNGB3 (B3) channels are inhibited by membrane phosphoinositides (PIP(n)), including phosphatidylinositol 3,4,5-triphosphate (PIP(3)) and phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PIP(2)), demonstrating a decrease in apparent affinity for cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP). Unlike homomeric A1 or A2 channels, A3-only channels paradoxically did not show a decrease in apparent affinity for cGMP after PIP(n) application. However, PIP(n) induced an ∼2.5-fold increase in cAMP efficacy for A3 channels. The PIP(n)-dependent change in cAMP efficacy was abolished by mutations in the C-terminal region (R643Q/R646Q) or by truncation distal to the cyclic nucleotide-binding domain (613X). In addition, A3-613X unmasked a threefold decrease in apparent cGMP affinity with PIP(n) application to homomeric channels, and this effect was dependent on conserved arginines within the N-terminal region of A3. Together, these results indicate that regulation of A3 subunits by phosphoinositides exhibits two separable components, which depend on structural elements within the N- and C-terminal regions, respectively. Furthermore, both N and C regulatory modules in A3 supported PIP(n) regulation of heteromeric A3+B3 channels. B3 subunits were not sufficient to confer PIP(n) sensitivity to heteromeric channels formed with PIP(n)-insensitive A subunits. Finally, channels formed by mixtures of PIP(n)-insensitive A3 subunits, having complementary mutations in N- and/or C-terminal regions, restored PIP(n) regulation, implying that intersubunit N-C interactions help control the phosphoinositide sensitivity of cone CNG channels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gucan Dai
- Department of Integrative Physiology and Neuroscience, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164, USA
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Huang CCY, Ko ML, Ko GYP. A new functional role for mechanistic/mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) in the circadian regulation of L-type voltage-gated calcium channels in avian cone photoreceptors. PLoS One 2013; 8:e73315. [PMID: 23977383 PMCID: PMC3747127 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0073315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2013] [Accepted: 07/19/2013] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
In the retina, the L-type voltage-gated calcium channels (L-VGCCs) are responsible for neurotransmitter release from photoreceptors and are under circadian regulation. Both the current densities and protein expression of L-VGCCs are significantly higher at night than during the day. However, the underlying mechanisms of circadian regulation of L-VGCCs in the retina are not completely understood. In this study, we demonstrated that the mechanistic/mammalian target of rapamycin complex (mTORC) signaling pathway participated in the circadian phase-dependent modulation of L-VGCCs. The activities of the mTOR cascade, from mTORC1 to its downstream targets, displayed circadian oscillations throughout the course of a day. Disruption of mTORC1 signaling dampened the L-VGCC current densities, as well as the protein expression of L-VGCCs at night. The decrease of L-VGCCs at night by mTORC1 inhibition was in part due to a reduction of L-VGCCα1 subunit translocation from the cytosol to the plasma membrane. Finally, we showed that mTORC1 was downstream of the phosphatidylionositol 3 kinase-protein kinase B (PI3K-AKT) signaling pathway. Taken together, mTORC1 signaling played a role in the circadian regulation of L-VGCCs, in part through regulation of ion channel trafficking and translocation, which brings to light a new functional role for mTORC1: the modulation of ion channel activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cathy Chia-Yu Huang
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, United States of America
| | - Michael Lee Ko
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, United States of America
| | - Gladys Yi-Ping Ko
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Ma H, Thapa A, Morris LM, Michalakis S, Biel M, Frank MB, Bebak M, Ding XQ. Loss of cone cyclic nucleotide-gated channel leads to alterations in light response modulating system and cellular stress response pathways: a gene expression profiling study. Hum Mol Genet 2013; 22:3906-19. [PMID: 23740940 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddt245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The cone photoreceptor cyclic nucleotide-gated (CNG) channel is essential for central and color vision and visual acuity. Mutations in the channel subunits CNGA3 and CNGB3 are associated with achromatopsia and cone dystrophy. We investigated the gene expression profiles in mouse retina with CNG channel deficiency using whole genome expression microarrays. As cones comprise only 2 to 3% of the total photoreceptor population in the wild-type mouse retina, the mouse lines with CNG channel deficiency on a cone-dominant background, i.e. Cnga3-/-/Nrl-/- and Cngb3-/-/Nrl-/- mice, were used in our study. Comparative data analysis revealed a total of 105 genes altered in Cnga3-/-/Nrl-/- and 92 in Cngb3-/-/Nrl-/- retinas, relative to Nrl-/- retinas, with 27 genes changed in both genotypes. The differentially expressed genes primarily encode proteins associated with cell signaling, cellular function maintenance and gene expression. Ingenuity pathway analysis (IPA) identified 26 and 9 canonical pathways in Cnga3-/-/Nrl-/- and Cngb3-/-/Nrl-/- retinas, respectively, with 6 pathways being shared. The shared pathways include phototransduction, cAMP/PKA-mediated signaling, endothelin signaling, and EIF2/endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, whereas the IL-1, CREB, and purine metabolism signaling were found to specifically associate with Cnga3 deficiency. Thus, CNG channel deficiency differentially regulates genes that affect cell processes such as phototransduction, cellular survival and gene expression, and such regulations play a crucial role(s) in the retinal adaptation to impaired cone phototransduction. Though lack of Cnga3 and Cngb3 shares many common pathways, deficiency of Cnga3 causes more significant alterations in gene expression. This work provides insights into how cones respond to impaired phototransduction at the gene expression levels.
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Senbel AM. Interaction between nitric oxide and dopaminergic transmission in the peripheral control of penile erection. Fundam Clin Pharmacol 2011; 25:63-71. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1472-8206.2010.00828.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Shi L, Ko ML, Ko GYP. Rhythmic expression of microRNA-26a regulates the L-type voltage-gated calcium channel alpha1C subunit in chicken cone photoreceptors. J Biol Chem 2009; 284:25791-803. [PMID: 19608742 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m109.033993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) modulate gene expression by degrading or inhibiting translation of messenger RNAs (mRNAs). Here, we demonstrated that chicken microRNA-26a (gga-mir-26a) is a key posttranscriptional regulator of photoreceptor L-type voltage-gated calcium channel alpha1C subunit (L-VGCCalpha1C) expression, and its own expression has a diurnal rhythm, thereby explaining the rhythmic nature of L-VGCCalpha1Cs. Circadian oscillators in retinal photoreceptors provide a mechanism that allows photoreceptors to anticipate daily illumination changes. In photoreceptors, L-VGCC activities are under circadian control, which are higher at night and lower during the day. Interestingly, the mRNA level of VGCCalpha1D oscillates, but those for VGCCalpha1C do not. However, the protein expression of both VGCCalpha1C and alpha1D are higher at night in cone photoreceptors. The underlying mechanism regulating L-VGCCalpha1C protein expression was not clear until now. In vitro targeting reporter assays verified that gga-mir-26a specifically targeted the L-VGCCalpha1C 3'-untranslated region, and gga-mir-26a expression in the retina peaked during the day. After transfection with gga-mir-26a, L-VGCCalpha1C protein expression and L-VGCC current density decreased. Therefore, the rhythmic expression of gga-mir-26a regulated the protein expression of the L-VGCCalpha1C subunit. Additionally, both CLOCK (circadian locomoter output cycles kaput) and CREB (cAMP-response element-binding protein-1) activated gga-mir-26a expression in vitro. This result implies that gga-mir-26a might be a downstream target of circadian oscillators. Our work has uncovered new functional roles for miRNAs in the regulation of circadian rhythms in cone photoreceptors. Circadian regulated miRNAs could serve as the link between the core oscillator and output signaling that further govern biological functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liheng Shi
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas 77843-4458, USA
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Jian K, Barhoumi R, Ko ML, Ko GYP. Inhibitory effect of somatostatin-14 on L-type voltage-gated calcium channels in cultured cone photoreceptors requires intracellular calcium. J Neurophysiol 2009; 102:1801-10. [PMID: 19605612 DOI: 10.1152/jn.00354.2009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The inhibitory effects of somatostatin have been well documented for many physiological processes. The action of somatostatin is through G-protein-coupled receptor-mediated second-messenger signaling, which in turn affects other downstream targets including ion channels. In the retina, somatostatin is released from a specific class of amacrine cells. Here we report that there was a circadian phase-dependent effect of somatostatin-14 (SS14) on the L-type voltage-gated calcium channels (L-VGCCs) in cultured chicken cone photoreceptors, and our study reveals that this process is dependent on intracellular calcium stores. Application of 500 nM SS14 for 2 h caused a decrease in L-VGCC currents only during the subjective night but not the subjective day. We then explored the cellular mechanisms underlying the circadian phase-dependent effect of SS14. The inhibitory effect of SS14 on L-VGCCs was mediated through the pertussis-toxin-sensitive G-protein-dependent somatostatin receptor 2 (sst2). Activation of sst2 by SS14 further activated downstream signaling involving phospholipase C and intracellular calcium stores. Mobilization of intracellular Ca2+ was required for somatostatin induced inhibition of photoreceptor L-VGCCs, suggesting that somatostatin plays an important role in the modulation of photoreceptor physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kuihuan Jian
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, 4458 TAMU, College Station, TX 77843-4458, USA
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Abstract
Ion channels are the gatekeepers to neuronal excitability. Retinal neurons of vertebrates and invertebrates, neurons of the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) of vertebrates, and pinealocytes of non-mammalian vertebrates display daily rhythms in their activities. The interlocking transcription-translation feedback loops with specific post-translational modulations within individual cells form the molecular clock, the basic mechanism that maintains the autonomic approximately 24-h rhythm. The molecular clock regulates downstream output signaling pathways that further modulate activities of various ion channels. Ultimately, it is the circadian regulation of ion channel properties that govern excitability and behavior output of these neurons. In this review, we focus on the recent development of research in circadian neurobiology mainly from 1980 forward. We will emphasize the circadian regulation of various ion channels, including cGMP-gated cation channels, various voltage-gated calcium and potassium channels, Na(+)/K(+)-ATPase, and a long-opening cation channel. The cellular mechanisms underlying the circadian regulation of these ion channels and their functions in various tissues and organisms will also be discussed. Despite the magnitude of chronobiological studies in recent years, the circadian regulation of ion channels still remains largely unexplored. Through more investigation and understanding of the circadian regulation of ion channels, the future development of therapeutic strategies for the treatment of sleep disorders, cardiovascular diseases, and other illnesses linked to circadian misalignment will benefit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gladys Y-P Ko
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas 77843-4458, USA.
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Ko ML, Jian K, Shi L, Ko GYP. Phosphatidylinositol 3 kinase-Akt signaling serves as a circadian output in the retina. J Neurochem 2009; 108:1607-20. [PMID: 19166512 DOI: 10.1111/j.1471-4159.2009.05931.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
The daily rhythm of L-type voltage-gated calcium channels (L-VGCCs) is part of the cellular mechanism underlying the circadian regulation of retina physiology and function. However, it is not completely understood how the circadian clock regulates L-VGCC current amplitudes without affecting channel gating properties. The phosphatidylinositol 3 kinase-protein kinase B (PI3K-Akt) signaling pathway has been implicated in many vital cellular functions especially in trophic factor-induced ion channel trafficking and membrane insertion. Here, we report that PI3K-Akt signaling participates in the circadian phase-dependent modulation of L-VGCCs. We found that there was a circadian regulation of Akt phosphorylation on Thr308 that peaked at night. Inhibition of PI3K or Akt significantly decreased L-VGCC current amplitudes and the expression of membrane-bound L-VGCCalpha1D subunit only at night but not during the subjective day. Photoreceptors transfected with a dominant negative Ras had significantly less expression of phosphorylated Akt and L-VGCCalpha1D subunit compared with non-transfected photoreceptors. Interestingly, both PI3K-Akt and extracellular signal-related kinase were downstream of Ras, and they appeared to be parallel and equally important pathways to regulate L-VGCC rhythms. Inhibition of either pathway abolished the L-VGCC rhythm indicating that there were multiple mechanisms involved in the circadian regulation of L-VGCC rhythms in retina photoreceptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael L Ko
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA
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Ko ML, Shi L, Ko GYP. Circadian controls outweigh acute illumination effects on the activity of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) in the retina. Neurosci Lett 2008; 451:74-8. [PMID: 19111596 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2008.12.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2008] [Revised: 12/02/2008] [Accepted: 12/16/2008] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) participates in numerous cellular functions including circadian-related activities. In the retina, the activity of ERK is under circadian control. However, it is not clear whether acute illumination changes or the circadian clocks in the retina have a larger impact on ERK activity, and the cellular distribution of activated ERK (pERK) as a function of circadian time in cone photoreceptors is not known. Chick embryos were exposed to the light or dark for various lengths of time after 12:12h light-dark (LD) cycles, or on the second day of constant darkness after LD entrainment. Retinas were excised after various exposure times and relative ERK activity was determined by western immunoblotting. We also performed immunohistochemical and immunocytochemical stainings on circadian entrained retina sections and dissociated retina cells. There is about a fourfold difference in ERK activity between retinas harvested at circadian time (CT) 4 and CT 16, and the internal circadian control of ERK activity in the retina overcomes external light exposure. Also, during the subjective night, pERK was more apparent in the outer segment of cones, while pERK distribution was more uniform throughout the photoreceptors during the subjective day. Our results imply that the activity of retinal ERK is influenced more by circadian oscillators than acute illumination changes. Hence, the circadian oscillators in retina photoreceptors play a major role in the regulation of photoreceptor physiology, which leads to the circadian control of light sensitivity in photoreceptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael L Ko
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843-4458, USA
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Lorenc-Duda A, Berezińska M, Urbańska A, Gołembiowska K, Zawilska JB. Dopamine in the Turkey retina-an impact of environmental light, circadian clock, and melatonin. J Mol Neurosci 2008; 38:12-8. [PMID: 18953673 DOI: 10.1007/s12031-008-9153-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2008] [Accepted: 09/25/2008] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Substantial evidence suggests that dopamine and melatonin are mutually inhibitory factors that act in the retina as chemical analogs of day and night. Here, we show an impact of environmental light, biological clock, and melatonin on retinal levels of dopamine and its major metabolite 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid (DOPAC) in the turkey. In turkeys held under different light (L) to dark (D) cycles (16L:8D, 12L:12D, 8L:16D), retinal levels of dopamine and DOPAC fluctuated with daily rhythms. High levels of dopamine and DOPAC were observed during light hours and low during dark hours. Under the three photoperiodic regimes, rhythms of dopamine and DOPAC were out of phase with daily oscillation in retinal melatonin content. In constant darkness, dopamine and DOPAC levels oscillated in circadian rhythms. Light deprivation resulted, however, in a significant decline in amplitudes of both rhythms. Injections of melatonin (0.1-1 mumol/eye) during daytime significantly reduced retinal levels of DOPAC. This suppressive effect of melatonin was more pronounced in the dark-adapted than light-exposed turkeys. Quinpirole (a D(2)/D(4)-dopamine receptor agonist; 0.1-10 nmol/eye) injected to dark-adapted turkeys significantly decreased retinal melatonin. Our results indicate that in the turkey retina: (1) environmental light is the major factor regulating dopamine synthesis and metabolism; (2) dopaminergic neurones are controlled, in part, by intrinsic circadian clock; and (3) dopamine and melatonin are components of the mutually inhibitory loop.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Lorenc-Duda
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical University of Łódź, Łódź, Poland
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Man PS, Evans T, Carter DA. Rhythmic expression of an egr-1 transgene in rats distinguishes two populations of photoreceptor cells in the retinal outer nuclear layer. Mol Vis 2008; 14:1176-86. [PMID: 18587494 PMCID: PMC2435162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2008] [Accepted: 06/05/2008] [Indexed: 10/26/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Nocturnal rhythms of gene expression in the retina are known to be both darkness- and circadian clock-dependent, but their role and cellular location are not well defined. In the present study we have used a new transgenic rat model (early growth response gene 1-destablized, enhanced green fluorescent protein 2; egr-1-d2EGFP) to investigate the rhythmic regulation of darkness-related gene expression. METHODS Adult transgenic rats were sampled during the light and dark phases of a standard laboratory lighting schedule. The cellular location of transgene expression in retinal sections was detected either via immunohistochemistry for green fluorescent protein (GFP) or via direct microscopy. The GFP expression pattern was compared to endogenous proteins (Egr-1, melanopsin, rhodopsin) via dual fluorophore immunohistochemistry. Day-night changes in GFP and Egr-1 expression were quantified by western blot analysis of retinal protein extracts. RESULTS Nocturnal transgene expression was abundant in the outer nuclear layer (ONL) of the retina, recapitulating expression of the endogenous Egr-1 protein. The transgene provided greatly enhanced visualization of the ONL cellular expression pattern, in part due to cellular filling by GFP molecules that pervade rod photoreceptor cells including inner and outer segments. The transgene was also expressed in isolated (Egr-1-positive) cells of the inner nuclear layer and the ganglion cell layer. In the ONL, a marked day-night rhythm in transgene expression was found to be predominantly within an inner zone of this retinal nuclear layer. This concentration of rhythmic GFP/Egr-1 to the inner ONL was not associated with differential localization of rhodopsin. CONCLUSIONS Analysis of a novel transgenic rat strain has identified subpopulations of rod photoreceptor cells that differ with respect to rhythmic nocturnal expression of egr-1. These studies demonstrate the value of this genetic approach that has provided a model for the functional characterization of retinal rhythms, specifically addressing the role of Egr-1 within nocturnal transcriptional events in a rod photoreceptor population. Because the darkness-dependent induction of Egr-1 is gated by a circadian clock, this model can also provide insights into the cellular mechanisms of circadian regulation in the retina.
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Tsuji T, Hirota T, Takemori N, Komori N, Yoshitane H, Fukuda M, Matsumoto H, Fukada Y. Circadian proteomics of the mouse retina. Proteomics 2007; 7:3500-8. [PMID: 17726681 DOI: 10.1002/pmic.200700272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
The circadian clock in the retina regulates a variety of physiological phenomena such as disc shedding and melatonin release. Although these events are critical for retinal functions, it is almost unknown how the circadian clock controls the physiological rhythmicity. To gain insight into the processes, we performed a proteomic analysis using 2-DE to find proteins whose levels show circadian changes. Among 415 retinal protein spots, 11 protein spots showed circadian rhythmicity in their intensities. We performed MALDI-TOF MS and NanoLC-MS/MS analyses and identified proteins contained in the 11 spots. The proteins were related to vesicular transport, calcium-binding, protein degradation, metabolism, RNA-binding, and protein foldings, suggesting the clock-regulation of neurotransmitter release, transportation of the membrane proteins, calcium-binding capability, and so on. We also found a rhythmic phosphorylation of N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive fusion protein and identified one of the amino acid residues modified by phosphorylation. These findings provide a new perspective on the relationship between the physiological functions of the retina and the circadian clock system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takahiro Tsuji
- Department of Biophysics and Biochemistry, Graduate School of Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
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Ko ML, Liu Y, Dryer SE, Ko GYP. The expression of L-type voltage-gated calcium channels in retinal photoreceptors is under circadian control. J Neurochem 2007; 103:784-92. [PMID: 17683482 DOI: 10.1111/j.1471-4159.2007.04816.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Photoreceptors are non-spiking neurons, and their synapses mediate the continuous release of neurotransmitters under the control of L-type voltage-gated calcium channels (VGCCs). Photoreceptors express endogenous circadian oscillators that play important roles in regulating photoreceptor physiology and function. Here, we report that the L-type VGCCs in chick cone photoreceptors are under circadian control. The L-type VGCC currents are greater when measured during the subjective night than during the subjective day. Using antibodies against the VGCCalpha1C and VGCCalpha1D subunits, we found that the immunofluorescence intensities of both VGCCalpha1C and VGCCalpha1D in photoreceptors are higher during the subjective night. However, the mRNA levels of VGCCalpha1D, but not VGCCalpha1C, are rhythmic. Nocturnal increases in L-type VGCCs are blocked by manumycin A, PD98059, and KN93, which suggest that the circadian output pathway includes Ras, Erk, and calcium-calmodulin dependent kinase II. In summary, four independent lines of evidence show that the L-VGCCs in cone photoreceptors are under circadian control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael L Ko
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas 77843, USA
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Yu CJ, Gao Y, Li P, Li L. Synchronizing multiphasic circadian rhythms of rhodopsin promoter expression in rod photoreceptor cells. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2007; 210:676-84. [PMID: 17267653 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.02694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Endogenous circadian clocks regulate day-night rhythms of animal behavior and physiology. In zebrafish, the circadian clocks are located in the pineal gland and the retina. In the retina, each photoreceptor is considered a circadian oscillator. A critical question is whether the individual circadian oscillators are synchronized. If so, the mechanism that underlies the synchronization needs to be elucidated. We generated a transgenic zebrafish line that expresses short half-life GFP under the transcriptional control of the rhodopsin promoter. Time-lapse imaging of rhodopsin promoter-driven GFP expression revealed that during 24 h in constant darkness, rhodopsin promoter expression in rod photoreceptor cells fluctuated rhythmically. However, the pattern of fluctuation differed between individual cells. In some cells, peak expression was seen in the subjective early morning, whereas in other cells, peak expression was seen in the afternoon or at night. Light transiently decreased rhodopsin expression, thereby synchronizing the multiphasic circadian oscillation. The application of dopamine or dopamine D2 receptor agonist also synchronized the circadian rhythms of rhodopsin promoter expression. When the D2 receptors were pharmacologically blocked, light exposure produced no effect. This suggests that the synchronization of the circadian rhythms of rhodopsin promoter expression by light is mediated by dopamine D2 receptors. The mechanism that underlies the synchronization probably involves dopamine-mediated Ca2+ signaling pathways. Light, as well as dopamine, lowered Ca2+ influx into the rod cells, thereby resetting rhodopsin promoter expression to the initial phase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuan-Jiang Yu
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN 46556, USA
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Iuvone PM, Tosini G, Pozdeyev N, Haque R, Klein DC, Chaurasia SS. Circadian clocks, clock networks, arylalkylamine N-acetyltransferase, and melatonin in the retina. Prog Retin Eye Res 2005; 24:433-56. [PMID: 15845344 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2005.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 258] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Circadian clocks are self-sustaining genetically based molecular machines that impose approximately 24h rhythmicity on physiology and behavior that synchronize these functions with the solar day-night cycle. Circadian clocks in the vertebrate retina optimize retinal function by driving rhythms in gene expression, photoreceptor outer segment membrane turnover, and visual sensitivity. This review focuses on recent progress in understanding how clocks and light control arylalkylamine N-acetyltransferase (AANAT), which is thought to drive the daily rhythm in melatonin production in those retinas that synthesize the neurohormone; AANAT is also thought to detoxify arylalkylamines through N-acetylation. The review will cover evidence that cAMP is a major output of the circadian clock in photoreceptor cells; and recent advances indicating that clocks and clock networks occur in multiple cell types of the retina.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Michael Iuvone
- Department of Pharmacology, Emory University School of Medicine, 1510 Clifton Road, rm. 5107, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA.
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Li P, Temple S, Gao Y, Haimberger TJ, Hawryshyn CW, Li L. Circadian rhythms of behavioral cone sensitivity and long wavelength opsin mRNA expression: a correlation study in zebrafish. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2005; 208:497-504. [PMID: 15671338 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.01424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Using a behavioral assay based on visually mediated escape responses, we measured long-wavelength-sensitive red cone (LC) sensitivities in zebrafish. In a 24 h period, the zebrafish were least sensitive to red light in the early morning and most sensitive in the late afternoon. To investigate if the fluctuation of behavioral cone sensitivity correlates with opsin gene expression, we measured LC opsin mRNA expression at different times in the day and night under different lighting conditions. Under a normal light-dark cycle, the expression of LC opsin mRNA determined by real-time RT-PCR was low in the early morning and high in the late afternoon, similar to the fluctuation of behavioral cone sensitivity. This rhythm of LC opsin mRNA expression, however, dampened out gradually in constant conditions. After 24 h of constant light (LL), the expression of LC opsin mRNA dropped to levels similar to those determined in the early morning in control animals. By contrast, when the zebrafish were kept in constant dark (DD), the expression of LC opsin mRNA increased, to levels about 30-fold higher than the expression in the early morning in control animals. This day-night fluctuation in LC opsin mRNA expression was correlated to changes in opsin density in the outer segment of cone photoreceptor cells. Microspectrophotometry (MSP) measurements found significant differences in red cone outer segment optical density with a rhythm following the behavioral sensitivity. Furthermore, dopamine modulated the circadian rhythms in expression of LC opsin mRNA. Administration of dopamine increased LC opsin mRNA expression, but only in the early morning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ping Li
- Department of Physiology, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington, KY 40536, USA.
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Kononenko NI, Medina I, Dudek FE. Persistent subthreshold voltage-dependent cation single channels in suprachiasmatic nucleus neurons. Neuroscience 2005; 129:85-92. [PMID: 15489031 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2004.06.080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/23/2004] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The hypothalamic suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) contains the primary circadian pacemaker in mammals, and transmits circadian signals by diurnal modulation of neuronal firing frequency. The ionic mechanisms underlying the circadian regulation of firing frequency are unknown, but may involve changes in membrane potential and voltage-gated ion channels. Here we describe novel tetrodotoxin- and nifedipine-resistant subthreshold, voltage-dependent cation (SVC) channels that are active at resting potential of SCN neurons and increase their open probability (P(o)) with membrane depolarization. The increased P(o) reflects changes in the kinetics of the slow component of the channel closed-time, but not the channel open-time or fast closed-time. This study provides a background for investigation of the possible role of SVC channels in regulation of circadian oscillations of membrane excitability in SCN neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- N I Kononenko
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Section of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA
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Ko GYP, Ko M, Dryer SE. Circadian and cAMP-dependent modulation of retinal cone cGMP-gated channels does not require protein synthesis or calcium influx through L-type channels. Brain Res 2004; 1021:277-80. [PMID: 15342277 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2004.05.072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/23/2004] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Circadian oscillators of chicken retinal cone photoreceptors modulate the gating properties of cGMP-gated channels (CNGCs) such that they have a higher apparent affinity for cGMP during the subjective night. This effect is driven in part by cAMP, which acts through Erk MAP kinase to initiate a cascade leading to modulation of CGNCs. Here, we show that cAMP effects on the gating properties CNGCs persist when protein synthesis is blocked. The effects is cAMP also persist when calcium influx through L-type channels is blocked by nitrendipine. The mechanisms whereby cAMP modulates CNGCs therefore differ from those previously reported to underline regulation of melatonin synthesis and secretion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gladys Y-P Ko
- Department of Biology and Biochemistry and Biological Clocks Program, University of Houston, Houston, TX 77204-5001, USA
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Bailey MJ, Beremand PD, Hammer R, Reidel E, Thomas TL, Cassone VM. Transcriptional Profiling of Circadian Patterns of mRNA Expression in the Chick Retina. J Biol Chem 2004; 279:52247-54. [PMID: 15448147 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m405679200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Previous transcriptome analyses have identified candidate molecular components of the avian pineal clock, and herein we employ high density cDNA microarrays of pineal gland transcripts to determine oscillating transcripts in the chick retina under daily and constant darkness conditions. Subsequent comparative transcriptome analysis of the pineal and retinal oscillators distinguished several transcriptional similarities between the two as well as significant differences. Rhythmic retinal transcripts were classified according to functional categories including phototransductive elements, transcription/translation factors, carrier proteins, cell signaling molecules, and stress response genes. Candidate retinal clock transcripts were also organized relative to time of day mRNA abundance, revealing groups accumulating peak mRNA levels across the circadian day but primarily reaching peak values at subjective dawn or subjective dusk. Comparison of the chick retina transcriptome to the pineal transcriptome under constant conditions yields an interesting group of conserved genes. This group includes putative clock elements cry1 and per3 in addition to several previously unidentified and uninvestigated genes exhibiting profiles of mRNA abundance that varied markedly under daily and constant conditions. In contrast, many transcripts were differentially regulated, including those believed to be involved in both melatonin biosynthesis and circadian clock mechanisms. Our results indicate an intimate transcriptional relationship between the avian pineal and retina in addition to providing previously uncharacterized molecular elements that we hypothesize to be involved in circadian rhythm generation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J Bailey
- Center for Biological Clocks Research, Department of Biology, and Laboratory for Functional Genomics, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas 77843-3258, USA
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Fan SF, Yazulla S. Inhibitory interaction of cannabinoid CB1 receptor and dopamine D2 receptor agonists on voltage-gated currents of goldfish cones. Vis Neurosci 2004; 21:69-77. [PMID: 15137583 DOI: 10.1017/s0952523804041070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Dopamine is a light-adaptive signal that desensitizes the retina, while cannabinoids reportedly increase photosensitivity. The presynaptic membrane of goldfish retinal cones has dopamine D2 receptors and cannabinoid CB1 receptors. This work focused on whether dopamine D2 receptor agonist quinpirole and cannabinoid CB1 receptor agonist WIN 55212-2 (WIN) interacted to modulate voltage-dependent membrane currents of cones. A conventional patch-clamp method was used to record depolarization evoked whole-cell outward currents (Iout) and an inward calcium current (ICa) from the inner segment of cones in goldfish retinal slices. WIN had biphasic actions: low concentrations (<1 μM) increased the currentsviaGs, while higher concentrations (>1 μM) decreased the currentsviaGi/Go. Neither dopamine nor the D2 agonist quinpirole (1–20 μM) had a significant effect on eitherIoutorICa. Quinpirole at 50 μM had a mild suppressive (∼20%) effect onIout. However, quinpirole (<10 μM) completely blocked the enhancement of both currents seen with 0.7 μM WIN. The effect of quinpirole was blocked by sulpiride and by pertussis toxin, indicating that quinpirole was actingviaa D2 receptor-Gi/o coupled mechanism. The suppressive action of 50 μM quinpirole (∼20%) was not additive with the suppressive effect of 3 μM WIN (∼40%). D2 agonistsviaGi/o oppose the action of low concentrations of CB1 agonists actingviaGs to modulate cone membrane currents, suggesting a role in shaping the cone light response and/or sensitivity to changes in ambient light conditions. The nonadditive effect of high concentrations of WIN and quinpirole suggests that both decrease membrane currentsviathe same transduction pathway, Gi/Go protein kinase A (PKA).
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Affiliation(s)
- Shih-Fang Fan
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11794-5230, USA
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