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Gómez GI, García-Rodríguez C, Marillán JE, Vergara SA, Alvear TF, Farias-Pasten A, Sáez JC, Retamal MA, Rovegno M, Ortiz FC, Orellana JA. Acute activation of hemichannels by ethanol leads to Ca 2+-dependent gliotransmitter release in astrocytes. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 12:1422978. [PMID: 38974144 PMCID: PMC11224458 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2024.1422978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2024] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 07/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Multiple studies have demonstrated that acute ethanol consumption alters brain function and cognition. Nevertheless, the mechanisms underlying this phenomenon remain poorly understood. Astrocyte-mediated gliotransmission is crucial for hippocampal plasticity, and recently, the opening of hemichannels has been found to play a relevant role in this process. Hemichannels are plasma membrane channels composed of six connexins or seven pannexins, respectively, that oligomerize around a central pore. They serve as ionic and molecular exchange conduits between the cytoplasm and extracellular milieu, allowing the release of various paracrine substances, such as ATP, D-serine, and glutamate, and the entry of ions and other substances, such as Ca2+ and glucose. The persistent and exacerbated opening of hemichannels has been associated with the pathogenesis and progression of several brain diseases for at least three mechanisms. The uncontrolled activity of these channels could favor the collapse of ionic gradients and osmotic balance, the release of toxic levels of ATP or glutamate, cell swelling and plasma membrane breakdown and intracellular Ca2+ overload. Here, we evaluated whether acute ethanol exposure affects the activity of astrocyte hemichannels and the possible repercussions of this phenomenon on cytoplasmatic Ca2+ signaling and gliotransmitter release. Acute ethanol exposure triggered the rapid activation of connexin43 and pannexin1 hemichannels in astrocytes, as measured by time-lapse recordings of ethidium uptake. This heightened activity derived from a rapid rise in [Ca2+]i linked to extracellular Ca2+ influx and IP3-evoked Ca2+ release from intracellular Ca2+ stores. Relevantly, the acute ethanol-induced activation of hemichannels contributed to a persistent secondary increase in [Ca2+]i. The [Ca2+]i-dependent activation of hemichannels elicited by ethanol caused the increased release of ATP and glutamate in astroglial cultures and brain slices. Our findings offer fresh perspectives on the potential mechanisms behind acute alcohol-induced brain abnormalities and propose targeting connexin43 and pannexin1 hemichannels in astrocytes as a promising avenue to prevent deleterious consequences of alcohol consumption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gonzalo I. Gómez
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Universidad Autónoma de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Claudia García-Rodríguez
- Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencia de Valparaíso, Facultad de Ciencias, Instituto de Neurociencia, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso, Chile
| | - Jesús E. Marillán
- Departamento de Neurología, Escuela de Medicina and Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencias, Facultad de Medicina, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Sergio A. Vergara
- Departamento de Neurología, Escuela de Medicina and Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencias, Facultad de Medicina, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Tanhia F. Alvear
- Departamento de Neurología, Escuela de Medicina and Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencias, Facultad de Medicina, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Arantza Farias-Pasten
- Departamento de Neurología, Escuela de Medicina and Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencias, Facultad de Medicina, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Juan C. Sáez
- Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencia de Valparaíso, Facultad de Ciencias, Instituto de Neurociencia, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso, Chile
| | - Mauricio A. Retamal
- Programa de Comunicación Celular en Cancer, Facultad de Medicina Clínica Alemana, Universidad del Desarrollo, Santiago, Chile
| | - Maximiliano Rovegno
- Departamento de Medicina Intensiva, Facultad de Medicina, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Fernando C. Ortiz
- Mechanisms of Myelin Formation and Repair Laboratory, Departamento de Biología, Facultad de Química y Biología, Universidad de Santiago de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Juan A. Orellana
- Departamento de Neurología, Escuela de Medicina and Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencias, Facultad de Medicina, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
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Stürmer S, Bolz S, Zrenner E, Ueffing M, Haq W. Sustained Extracellular Electrical Stimulation Modulates the Permeability of Gap Junctions in rd1 Mouse Retina with Photoreceptor Degeneration. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:1616. [PMID: 38338908 PMCID: PMC10855676 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25031616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2023] [Revised: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Neurons build vast gap junction-coupled networks (GJ-nets) that are permeable to ions or small molecules, enabling lateral signaling. Herein, we investigate (1) the effect of blinding diseases on GJ-nets in mouse retinas and (2) the impact of electrical stimulation on GJ permeability. GJ permeability was traced in the acute retinal explants of blind retinal degeneration 1 (rd1) mice using the GJ tracer neurobiotin. The tracer was introduced via the edge cut method into the GJ-net, and its spread was visualized in histological preparations (fluorescent tagged) using microscopy. Sustained stimulation was applied to modulate GJ permeability using a single large electrode. Our findings are: (1) The blind rd1 retinas displayed extensive intercellular coupling via open GJs. Three GJ-nets were identified: horizontal, amacrine, and ganglion cell networks. (2) Sustained stimulation significantly diminished the tracer spread through the GJs in all the cell layers, as occurs with pharmaceutical inhibition with carbenoxolone. We concluded that the GJ-nets of rd1 retinas remain coupled and functional after blinding disease and that their permeability is regulatable by sustained stimulation. These findings are essential for understanding molecular signaling in diseases over coupled networks and therapeutic approaches using electrical implants, such as eliciting visual sensations or suppressing cortical seizures.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Wadood Haq
- Institute for Ophthalmic Research, University of Tuebingen, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany
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3
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Peracchia C. Gap Junction Channel Regulation: A Tale of Two Gates-Voltage Sensitivity of the Chemical Gate and Chemical Sensitivity of the Fast Voltage Gate. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:982. [PMID: 38256055 PMCID: PMC10815820 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25020982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Gap junction channels are regulated by gates sensitive to cytosolic acidification and trans-junctional voltage (Vj). We propose that the chemical gate is a calmodulin (CaM) lobe. The fast-Vj gate is made primarily by the connexin's NH2-terminus domain (NT). The chemical gate closes the channel slowly and completely, while the fast-Vj gate closes the channel rapidly but incompletely. The chemical gate closes with increased cytosolic calcium concentration [Ca2+]i and with Vj gradients at Vj's negative side. In contrast, the fast-Vj gate closes at the positive or negative side of Vj depending on the connexin (Cx) type. Cxs with positively charged NT close at Vj's negative side, while those with negatively charged NT close at Vj's positive side. Cytosolic acidification alters in opposite ways the sensitivity of the fast-Vj gate: it increases the Vj sensitivity of negative gaters and decreases that of positive gaters. While the fast-Vj gate closes and opens instantaneously, the chemical gate often shows fluctuations, likely to reflect the shifting of the gate (CaM's N-lobe) in and out of the channel's pore.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camillo Peracchia
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, School of Medicine and Dentistry, University Rochester, Rochester, NY 14642-8711, USA
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4
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Acosta FM, Riquelme MA, Gu S, Jiang JX. Evaluation of Connexin Hemichannel Activity In Vivo. Methods Mol Biol 2024; 2801:111-124. [PMID: 38578417 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3842-2_9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/06/2024]
Abstract
Connexin hemichannels (Cx HCs) are hexameric structures at the cell plasma membrane, whose function as membrane transport proteins allows for the passive flow of small hydrophilic molecules and ions (≤1 kDa) between the cytosol and the extracellular environment. Activation of Cx HCs is highly dependent on pathological conditions. HC activity provokes changes in the microenvironment, inducing the dissemination of signaling molecules in both an autocrine and paracrine manner. Given the elicitation of a variety of signaling pathways, and assortment of Cx species and dispersion throughout the body, Cx HCs have been implicated in a range of processes such as cell proliferation, differentiation, cell death, and tissue modeling and remodeling. While studying the expression and localization of Cx HCs can be done using traditional laboratory techniques, such as immunoblot analysis, measuring the functionality/activity of the HCs requires a more explicit methodology and is essential for determining Cx-mediated physiological changes. The study of Cx HC function/activity has focused mainly on in vitro measurements through electrophysiological characterization or, more commonly, using HC-permeable dye uptake studies. Here, we describe the use of dye uptake to measure Cx HC activity in vivo using mechanically stimulated osteocytic Cx43 HCs with Evans blue dye as our model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisca M Acosta
- Department of Biochemistry and Structural Biology, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Manuel A Riquelme
- Department of Biochemistry and Structural Biology, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Sumin Gu
- Department of Biochemistry and Structural Biology, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Jean X Jiang
- Department of Biochemistry and Structural Biology, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA.
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Chen X, Wang W, Li H, Zhang X. Enriched environment alleviates neurological deficits via downregulation of Cx43 after experimental stroke. Brain Res 2023; 1821:148619. [PMID: 37805009 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2023.148619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2023] [Revised: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/09/2023]
Abstract
While it has been demonstrated that enriched environment (EE) can protect against cerebral ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury, the underlying mechanism remains largely unknown. Connexin 43 (Cx43) is a key component of gap junctions, which may mediate cell-to-cell communication in neural cells. This study aimed to investigate the neuroprotective effects of EE against cerebral I/R injury in rats by modulating Cx43. A rat model of cerebral I/R injury was established by middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO)/reperfusion. Rats were randomly divided into the sham, MCAO, MCAO + EE, MCAO + Gap19, and MCAO + EE + Gap19 groups. The modified neurological severity score test and Morris water maze assay were used to assess neurological deficits. The infarct volume was measured using triphenyltetrazolium chloride (TTC) staining. Neuronal survival was detected by immunofluorescence. The indices of oxidative stress were determined using ELISA, and the reactive oxygen species levels were determined using a dihydroethidium probe. Cx43 and inflammation-related protein expression levels were also measured using western blotting and immunohistochemistry. EE and Gap19 treatment significantly improved neurological deficits, reduced infarct volumes, attenuated neuronal injury, and suppressed inflammatory cytokine expression and oxidative stress. Furthermore, EE and Gap19 treatment notably downregulated the expression of Cx43 and the inflammation-related pathway TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB in the ischemic penumbra. Gap19, a Cx43 inhibitor, markedly enhanced the neuroprotective effects of EE in rats with cerebral I/R injury. EE treatment protects against cerebral I/R injury in rats via Cx43 downregulation. Our findings may shed light on the mechanism underlying the protective efficacy of EE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiuping Chen
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Wansong Wang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Hui Li
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Ruijin 2rd, Shanghai 200025, China.
| | - Xin Zhang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, 169 Donghu Street, Wuhan 430071, Hubei, China.
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Miglietta S, Cristiano L, Battaglione E, Macchiarelli G, Nottola SA, De Marco MP, Costanzi F, Schimberni M, Colacurci N, Caserta D, Familiari G. Heavy Metals in Follicular Fluid Affect the Ultrastructure of the Human Mature Cumulus-Oocyte Complex. Cells 2023; 12:2577. [PMID: 37947655 PMCID: PMC10650507 DOI: 10.3390/cells12212577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Revised: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023] Open
Abstract
It is known that exposure to heavy metal such as lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd) has several adverse effects, particularly on the human reproductive system. Pb and Cd have been associated with infertility in both men and women. In pregnant women, they have been associated with spontaneous abortion, preterm birth, and impairment of the development of the fetus. Since these heavy metals come from both natural and anthropogenic activities and their harmful effects have been observed even at low levels of exposure, exposure to them remains a public health issue, especially for the reproductive system. Given this, the present study aimed to investigate the potential reproductive effects of Pb and Cd levels in the follicular fluid (FF) of infertile women and non-smokers exposed to heavy metals for professional reasons or as a result of living in rural areas near landfills and waste disposal areas in order to correlate the intrafollicular presence of these metals with possible alterations in the ultrastructure of human cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs), which are probably responsible for infertility. Blood and FF metals were measured using atomic absorption spectrometry. COCs corresponding to each FF analyzed were subjected to ultrastructural analyses using transmission electron microscopy. We demonstrated for the first time that intrafollicular levels of Pb (0.66 µg/dL-0.85 µg/dL) and Cd (0.26 µg/L-0.41 µg/L) could be associated with morphological alterations of both the oocyte and cumulus cells' (CCs) ultrastructure. Since blood Cd levels (0.54 µg/L-1.87 µg/L) were above the current reference values established by the guidelines of the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) (0.4 µg/L), whereas blood Pb levels (1.28 µg/dL-3.98 µg/dL) were below the ATSDR reference values (≤5 µg/dL), we believe that these alterations could be due especially to Cd, even if we cannot exclude a possible additional effect of Pb. Our results highlighted that oocytes were affected in maturation and quality, whereas CCs showed scarcely active steroidogenic elements. Regressing CCs, with cytoplasmic alterations, were also numerous. According to Cd's endocrine-disrupting activity, the poor steroidogenic activity of CCs might correlate with delayed oocyte cytoplasmic maturation. So, we conclude that levels of heavy metals in the blood and the FF might negatively affect fertilization, embryo development, and pregnancy, compromising oocyte competence in fertilization both directly and indirectly, impairing CC steroidogenic activity, and inducing CC apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Selenia Miglietta
- Department of Anatomy, Histology, Forensic Medicine and Orthopaedics, Sapienza University, 00165 Rome, Italy; (E.B.); (S.A.N.); (G.F.)
| | - Loredana Cristiano
- Department of Life Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy; (L.C.); (G.M.)
| | - Ezio Battaglione
- Department of Anatomy, Histology, Forensic Medicine and Orthopaedics, Sapienza University, 00165 Rome, Italy; (E.B.); (S.A.N.); (G.F.)
| | - Guido Macchiarelli
- Department of Life Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy; (L.C.); (G.M.)
| | - Stefania Annarita Nottola
- Department of Anatomy, Histology, Forensic Medicine and Orthopaedics, Sapienza University, 00165 Rome, Italy; (E.B.); (S.A.N.); (G.F.)
| | - Maria Paola De Marco
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Translational Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Sant’Andrea University Hospital, Via di Grottarossa 1035, 00189 Rome, Italy; (M.P.D.M.); (F.C.); (D.C.)
| | - Flavia Costanzi
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Translational Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Sant’Andrea University Hospital, Via di Grottarossa 1035, 00189 Rome, Italy; (M.P.D.M.); (F.C.); (D.C.)
| | - Mauro Schimberni
- GENERA Centers for Reproductive Medicine, Clinica Valle Giulia, 00197 Rome, Italy;
| | - Nicola Colacurci
- Department of Woman Child and General and Specialized Surgery, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy;
| | - Donatella Caserta
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Translational Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Sant’Andrea University Hospital, Via di Grottarossa 1035, 00189 Rome, Italy; (M.P.D.M.); (F.C.); (D.C.)
| | - Giuseppe Familiari
- Department of Anatomy, Histology, Forensic Medicine and Orthopaedics, Sapienza University, 00165 Rome, Italy; (E.B.); (S.A.N.); (G.F.)
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7
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Sayedyahossein S, Thines L, Sacks DB. Ca 2+ signaling and the Hippo pathway: Intersections in cellular regulation. Cell Signal 2023; 110:110846. [PMID: 37549859 PMCID: PMC10529277 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2023.110846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Revised: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/09/2023]
Abstract
The Hippo signaling pathway is a master regulator of organ size and tissue homeostasis. Hippo integrates a broad range of cellular signals to regulate numerous processes, such as cell proliferation, differentiation, migration and mechanosensation. Ca2+ is a fundamental second messenger that modulates signaling cascades involved in diverse cellular functions, some of which are also regulated by the Hippo pathway. Studies published over the last five years indicate that Ca2+ can influence core Hippo pathway components. Nevertheless, comprehensive understanding of the crosstalk between Ca2+ signaling and the Hippo pathway, and possible mechanisms through which Ca2+ regulates Hippo, remain to be elucidated. In this review, we summarize the multiple intersections between Ca2+ and the Hippo pathway and address the biological consequences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samar Sayedyahossein
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Louise Thines
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - David B Sacks
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA.
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8
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Maxwell RW, Katyal S. Characteristics of Kundalini-Related Sensory, Motor, and Affective Experiences During Tantric Yoga Meditation. Front Psychol 2022; 13:863091. [PMID: 35846598 PMCID: PMC9282169 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.863091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2022] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Traditional spiritual literature contains rich anecdotal reports of spontaneously arising experiences occurring during meditation practice, but formal investigation of such experiences is limited. Previous work has sometimes related spontaneous experiences to the Indian traditional contemplative concept of kundalini. Historically, descriptions of kundalini come out of Tantric schools of Yoga, where it has been described as a “rising energy” moving within the spinal column up to the brain. Spontaneous meditation experiences have previously been studied within Buddhist and Christian practices and within eclectic groups of contemplative practitioners. Prior explorations of kundalini have emphasized extreme experiences, sometimes having clinical consequences. We conducted a first such investigation of kundalini-related experiences within a sample of meditators from a single Tantric Yoga tradition (known as Ananda Marga) that emphasizes the role of kundalini. We developed a semi-structured questionnaire to conduct an exploratory pilot investigation of spontaneous sensory, motor and affective experiences during meditation practice. In addition to identifying the characteristics of subjective experiences, we measured quantity of meditation, supplemental practices, trait affect and trait mindfulness. We administered it to 80 volunteers at two Ananda Marga retreats. Among reported experiences, we found the highest prevalence for positive mood shifts, followed by motor and then sensory experiences. The frequency of spontaneous experiences was not related to the quantity of practiced meditation or trait measures of mindfulness and affect. Self-reports included multiple descriptions of rising sensations, sometimes being directly called kundalini. Experiences with rising sensations were complex and many included references to positive affect, including ecstatic qualities. There were also reports of spontaneous anomalous experiences. These experiences of rising sensations resemble prior clinical descriptions that were considered kundalini-related. The individuals who reported rising sensations could not be distinguished from other participants based on the incidence of experiences, quantity of meditation practice, or trait measures of mindfulness and affect. In contrast, greater amount of Tantric Yoga meditation practice was associated with greater positive affect, less negative affect and greater mindfulness. Further study of these exploratory findings and how they may be related to spiritual and well-being goals of meditation is warranted along with scientific investigation of purported kundalini phenomena.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard W. Maxwell
- Private Practitioner, Ithaca, NY, United States
- *Correspondence: Richard W. Maxwell,
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9
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Žužul M, Lozić M, Filipović N, Čanović S, Didović Pavičić A, Petričević J, Kunac N, Šoljić V, Saraga-Babić M, Konjevoda S, Vukojevic K. The Expression of Connexin 37, 40, 43, 45 and Pannexin 1 in the Early Human Retina and Choroid Development and Tumorigenesis. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:5918. [PMID: 35682601 PMCID: PMC9180640 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23115918] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Revised: 05/08/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The expression pattern of Connexins (Cx) 37, 40, 43, 45 and Pannexin 1 (Pnx1) was analyzed immunohistochemically, as well as semi-quantitatively and quantitatively in histological sections of developing 8th- to 12th-week human eyes and postnatal healthy eye, in retinoblastoma and different uveal melanomas. Expressions of both Cx37 and Cx43 increased during development but diminished in the postnatal period, being higher in the retina than in the choroid. Cx37 was highly expressed in the choroid of retinoblastoma, and Cx43 in epitheloid melanoma, while they were both increasingly expressed in mixoid melanoma. In contrast, mild retinal Cx40 expression during development increased to strong in postnatal period, while it was significantly higher in the choroid of mixoid melanoma. Cx45 showed significantly higher expression in the developing retina compared to other samples, while it became low postnatally and in all types of melanoma. Pnx1 was increasingly expressed in developing choroid but became lower in the postnatal eye. It was strongly expressed in epithelial and spindle melanoma, and particularly in retinoblastoma. Our results indicate importance of Cx37 and Cx40 expression in normal and pathological vascularization, and Cx43 expression in inflammatory response. Whereas Cx45 is involved in early stages of eye development, Pnx1might influence cell metabolism. Additionally, Cx43 might be a potential biomarker of tumor prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matea Žužul
- Department of Ophthalmology, General Hospital Zadar, 21000 Split, Croatia; (M.Ž.); (S.Č.); (A.D.P.); (S.K.)
| | - Mirela Lozić
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, University of Split, Šoltanska 2, 21000 Split, Croatia; (M.L.); (N.F.); (M.S.-B.)
| | - Natalija Filipović
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, University of Split, Šoltanska 2, 21000 Split, Croatia; (M.L.); (N.F.); (M.S.-B.)
| | - Samir Čanović
- Department of Ophthalmology, General Hospital Zadar, 21000 Split, Croatia; (M.Ž.); (S.Č.); (A.D.P.); (S.K.)
- Department of Health Studies, University of Zadar, 23000 Zadar, Croatia
| | - Ana Didović Pavičić
- Department of Ophthalmology, General Hospital Zadar, 21000 Split, Croatia; (M.Ž.); (S.Č.); (A.D.P.); (S.K.)
| | - Joško Petričević
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, University of Mostar, 88000 Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina;
| | - Nenad Kunac
- Department of Pathology, University Hospital of Split, 21000 Split, Croatia;
| | - Violeta Šoljić
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, University of Mostar, 88000 Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina;
- Faculty of Health Studies, University of Mostar, 88000 Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Mirna Saraga-Babić
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, University of Split, Šoltanska 2, 21000 Split, Croatia; (M.L.); (N.F.); (M.S.-B.)
| | - Suzana Konjevoda
- Department of Ophthalmology, General Hospital Zadar, 21000 Split, Croatia; (M.Ž.); (S.Č.); (A.D.P.); (S.K.)
- Department of Health Studies, University of Zadar, 23000 Zadar, Croatia
| | - Katarina Vukojevic
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, University of Split, Šoltanska 2, 21000 Split, Croatia; (M.L.); (N.F.); (M.S.-B.)
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, University of Mostar, 88000 Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina;
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, University of Mostar, 88000 Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina
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10
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Retamal MA, Altenberg GA. Role and Posttranslational Regulation of Cx46 Hemichannels and Gap Junction Channels in the Eye Lens. Front Physiol 2022; 13:864948. [PMID: 35431975 PMCID: PMC9006113 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.864948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Connexins are a family of proteins that can form two distinct types of channels: hemichannels and gap junction channels. Hemichannels are composed of six connexin subunits and when open allow for exchanges between the cytoplasm and the extracellular milieu. Gap junction channels are formed by head-to-head docking of two hemichannels in series, each one from one of two adjacent cells. These channels allow for exchanges between the cytoplasms of contacting cells. The lens is a transparent structure located in the eye that focuses light on the retina. The transparency of the lens depends on its lack of blood irrigation and the absence of organelles in its cells. To survive such complex metabolic scenario, lens cells express Cx43, Cx46 and Cx50, three connexins isoforms that form hemichannels and gap junction channels that allow for metabolic cooperation between lens cells. This review focuses on the roles of Cx46 hemichannels and gap junction channels in the lens under physiological conditions and in the formation of cataracts, with emphasis on the modulation by posttranslational modifications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mauricio A. Retamal
- Universidad del Desarrollo, Centro de Fisiología Celular e Integrativa, Clínica Alemana Facultad de Medicina, Santiago, Chile
- Universidad del Desarrollo, Programa de Comunicación Celular en Cáncer, Clínica Alemana Facultad de Medicina, Santiago, Chile
- Department of Cell Physiology and Molecular Biophysics, and Center for Membrane Protein Research, School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, United States
- *Correspondence: Mauricio A. Retamal, ; Guillermo A. Altenberg,
| | - Guillermo A. Altenberg
- Department of Cell Physiology and Molecular Biophysics, and Center for Membrane Protein Research, School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, United States
- *Correspondence: Mauricio A. Retamal, ; Guillermo A. Altenberg,
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11
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Takeya M, Higashi R, Hashitani H, Nakamura KI, Hayashi T, Nakashima N, Takano M. PDGFRα (+) subepithelial interstitial cells act as a pacemaker to drive smooth muscle of the guinea pig seminal vesicle. J Physiol 2022; 600:1703-1730. [PMID: 35081665 DOI: 10.1113/jp281686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2021] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
KEY POINTS In many visceral smooth muscle organs, spontaneous contractions are electrically driven by non-muscular pacemaker cells. In guinea pig seminal vesicles (SVs), as yet unidentified mucosal cells appear to drive neighbouring smooth muscle cells (SMCs). Two populations of spontaneously active cells are distributed in the SV mucosa. Basal epithelial cells (BECs) generate asynchronous, irregular spontaneous Ca2+ transients and spontaneous transient depolarisations (STDs). In contrast, subepithelial interstitial cells (SICs) develop synchronous Ca2+ oscillations and electrical slow waves. Pancytokeratin-immunoreactive (IR) BECs are located on the apical side of the basement membrane (BM), while platelet-derived growth factor receptor α (PDGFRα)-IR SICs are located on the basal side of the BM. Spontaneous Ca2+ transients in SICs are synchronised with those in SV SMCs. Dye-coupling between SICs and SMCs suggests that SICs act as pacemaker cells to drive the spontaneous contractions of SV smooth muscle. ABSTRACT Smooth muscle cells (SMCs) of the guinea pig seminal vesicle (SV) develop spontaneous phasic contractions, Ca2+ flashes and electrical slow waves in a mucosa dependent manner, thus it was envisaged that pacemaker cells reside in the mucosa. Here, we aimed to identify the pacemaker cells in SV mucosa using intracellular microelectrode and fluorescent Ca2+ imaging techniques. Morphological characteristics of the mucosal pacemaker cells were also investigated using focused ion beam/scanning electron microscopy tomography and fluorescent immunohistochemistry. Two populations of mucosal cells developed spontaneous Ca2+ transients and electrical activity, namely basal epithelial cells (BECs) and subepithelial interstitial cells (SICs). Pancytokeratin-immunoreactive BECs were located on the apical side of the basement membrane (BM) and generated asynchronous, irregular spontaneous Ca2+ transients and spontaneous transient depolarisations (STDs). The spontaneous Ca2+ transients and STDs were not diminished by 10 μM nifedipine but abolished by 10 μM cyclopiazonic acid (CPA). Platelet-derived growth factor receptor α (PDGFRα)-immunoreactive SICs were distributed just beneath the basal side of the BM and developed synchronous Ca2+ oscillations (SCOs) and electrical slow waves, which were suppressed by 3 μM nifedipine and abolished by 10 μM CPA. In SV mucosal preparations in which some smooth muscle bundles remained attached, SICs and residual SMCs developed temporally-correlated spontaneous Ca2+ transients. Neurobiotin injected into SICs spread to not only neighbouring SICs but also to neighbouring SMCs or vice versa. These results suggest that PDGFRα (+) SICs electrotonically drive the spontaneous contractions of SV smooth muscle. Abstract figure legend The seminal vesicles (SVs) of guinea pig generate spontaneous phasic contractions (SPCs). SV smooth muscle cells (SMCs, pink) develop SPCs associated with spontaneous electrical slow waves and Ca2+ flashes, which require the attachment of mucosal layer. Histological examination demonstrated the layer of PDGFRα-immunoreactive subepithelial interstitial cells (SICs, green) underneath of the basement membrane. The SICs spontaneously develop synchronous Ca2+ oscillations and the electrical slow waves, at the frequency corresponding to those of SPCs. The dye-coupling between SICs and SMCs further suggested that the synchronous electrical slow waves in the SICs electrotonically conduct to the SV SMCs via gap junctions (orange). Thus, the SICs appear to act as electrical pacemaker cells driving SPCs of SV. The basal epithelial cells (BECs, brown) also generated asynchronous, irregular spontaneous Ca2+ transients and spontaneous transient depolarisations, although their roles in developing SPCs remains to be explored. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mitsue Takeya
- Division of Integrated Autonomic Function, Department of Physiology, Kurume University School of Medicine, Kurume, Japan
| | - Ryuhei Higashi
- Electron Microscopic Laboratory, Central Research Unit of Kurume University School of Medicine, Kurume, Japan
| | - Hikaru Hashitani
- Department of Cell Physiology, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Kei-Ichiro Nakamura
- Division of Microscopic and Developmental Anatomy, Department of Anatomy, Kurume University School of Medicine, Kurume, Japan
| | | | - Noriyuki Nakashima
- Division of Integrated Autonomic Function, Department of Physiology, Kurume University School of Medicine, Kurume, Japan
| | - Makoto Takano
- Division of Integrated Autonomic Function, Department of Physiology, Kurume University School of Medicine, Kurume, Japan
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12
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Li Y, Parkinson DY, Feng J, Xia CH, Gong X. Quantitative X-ray tomographic analysis reveals calcium precipitation in cataractogenesis. Sci Rep 2021; 11:17401. [PMID: 34465795 PMCID: PMC8408149 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-96867-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2021] [Accepted: 08/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Cataracts, named for pathological light scattering in the lens, are known to be associated with increased large protein aggregates, disrupted protein phase separation, and/or osmotic imbalances in lens cells. We have applied synchrotron phase contrast X-ray micro-computed tomography to directly examine an age-related nuclear cataract model in Cx46 knockout (Cx46KO) mice. High-resolution 3D X-ray tomographic images reveal amorphous spots and strip-like dense matter precipitates in lens cores of all examined Cx46KO mice at different ages. The precipitates are predominantly accumulated in the anterior suture regions of lens cores, and they become longer and dense as mice age. Alizarin red staining data confirms the presence of calcium precipitates in lens cores of all Cx46KO mice. This study indicates that the spatial and temporal calcium precipitation is an age-related event associated with age-related nuclear cataract formation in Cx46KO mice, and further suggests that the loss of Cx46 promotes calcium precipitates in the lens core, which is a new mechanism that likely contributes to the pathological light scattering in this age-related cataract model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuxing Li
- Vision Science Program and School of Optometry, University of California, Berkeley, 693 Minor Hall, Berkeley, CA, 94720-2020, USA
- Tsinghua-Berkeley Shenzhen Institute (TBSI), UC Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Dilworth Y Parkinson
- Advanced Light Source Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Jun Feng
- Advanced Light Source Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Chun-Hong Xia
- Vision Science Program and School of Optometry, University of California, Berkeley, 693 Minor Hall, Berkeley, CA, 94720-2020, USA
| | - Xiaohua Gong
- Vision Science Program and School of Optometry, University of California, Berkeley, 693 Minor Hall, Berkeley, CA, 94720-2020, USA.
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13
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Quan Y, Du Y, Tong Y, Gu S, Jiang JX. Connexin Gap Junctions and Hemichannels in Modulating Lens Redox Homeostasis and Oxidative Stress in Cataractogenesis. Antioxidants (Basel) 2021; 10:1374. [PMID: 34573006 PMCID: PMC8464761 DOI: 10.3390/antiox10091374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The lens is continuously exposed to oxidative stress insults, such as ultraviolet radiation and other oxidative factors, during the aging process. The lens possesses powerful oxidative stress defense systems to maintain its redox homeostasis, one of which employs connexin channels. Connexins are a family of proteins that form: (1) Hemichannels that mediate the communication between the intracellular and extracellular environments, and (2) gap junction channels that mediate cell-cell communication between adjacent cells. The avascular lens transports nutrition and metabolites through an extensive network of connexin channels, which allows the passage of small molecules, including antioxidants and oxidized wastes. Oxidative stress-induced post-translational modifications of connexins, in turn, regulates gap junction and hemichannel permeability. Recent evidence suggests that dysfunction of connexins gap junction channels and hemichannels may induce cataract formation through impaired redox homeostasis. Here, we review the recent advances in the knowledge of connexin channels in lens redox homeostasis and their response to cataract-related oxidative stress by discussing two major aspects: (1) The role of lens connexins and channels in oxidative stress and cataractogenesis, and (2) the impact and underlying mechanism of oxidative stress in regulating connexin channels.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Jean X. Jiang
- Department of Biochemistry and Structural Biology, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA; (Y.Q.); (Y.D.); (Y.T.); (S.G.)
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14
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Gong XD, Wang Y, Hu XB, Zheng SY, Fu JL, Nie Q, Wang L, Hou M, Xiang JW, Xiao Y, Gao Q, Bai YY, Liu YZ, Li DWC. Aging-dependent loss of GAP junction proteins Cx46 and Cx50 in the fiber cells of human and mouse lenses accounts for the diminished coupling conductance. Aging (Albany NY) 2021; 13:17568-17591. [PMID: 34226295 PMCID: PMC8312418 DOI: 10.18632/aging.203247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2021] [Accepted: 06/12/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The homeostasis of the ocular lens is maintained by a microcirculation system propagated through gap junction channels. It is well established that the intercellular communications of the lens become deteriorative during aging. However, the molecular basis for this change in human lenses has not been well defined. Here, we present evidence to show that over 90% of Cx46 and Cx50 are lost in the fiber cells of normal human lenses aged 50 and above. From transparent to cataractous lenses, while Cx43 was upregulated, both Cx46 and Cx50 were significantly down-regulated in the lens epithelia. During aging of mouse lenses, Cx43 remained unchanged, but both Cx46 and Cx50 were significantly downregulated. Under oxidative stress treatment, mouse lenses develop in vitro cataractogenesis. Associated with this process, Cx43 was significantly upregulated, in contrast, Cx46 and Cx50 were sharply downregulated. Together, our results for the first time reveal that downregulation in Cx46 and Cx50 levels appears to be the major reason for the diminished coupling conductance, and the aging-dependent loss of Cx46 and Cx50 promotes senile cataractogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Dong Gong
- The State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510230, China
| | - Yan Wang
- The State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510230, China
| | - Xue-Bin Hu
- The State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510230, China
| | - Shu-Yu Zheng
- The State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510230, China
| | - Jia-Ling Fu
- The State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510230, China
| | - Qian Nie
- The State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510230, China
| | - Ling Wang
- The State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510230, China
| | - Min Hou
- The State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510230, China
| | - Jia-Wen Xiang
- The State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510230, China
| | - Yuan Xiao
- The State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510230, China
| | - Qian Gao
- The State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510230, China
| | - Yue-Yue Bai
- The State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510230, China
| | - Yi-Zhi Liu
- The State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510230, China
| | - David Wan-Cheng Li
- The State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510230, China
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15
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Zoidl GR, Spray DC. The Roles of Calmodulin and CaMKII in Cx36 Plasticity. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:4473. [PMID: 33922931 PMCID: PMC8123330 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22094473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2021] [Revised: 04/17/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Anatomical and electrophysiological evidence that gap junctions and electrical coupling occur between neurons was initially confined to invertebrates and nonmammals and was thought to be a primitive form of synaptic transmission. More recent studies revealed that electrical communication is common in the mammalian central nervous system (CNS), often coexisting with chemical synaptic transmission. The subsequent progress indicated that electrical synapses formed by the gap junction protein connexin-36 (Cx36) and its paralogs in nonmammals constitute vital elements in mammalian and fish synaptic circuitry. They govern the collective activity of ensembles of coupled neurons, and Cx36 gap junctions endow them with enormous adaptive plasticity, like that seen at chemical synapses. Moreover, they orchestrate the synchronized neuronal network activity and rhythmic oscillations that underlie the fundamental integrative processes, such as memory and learning. Here, we review the available mechanistic evidence and models that argue for the essential roles of calcium, calmodulin, and the Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II in integrating calcium signals to modulate the strength of electrical synapses through interactions with the gap junction protein Cx36.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georg R. Zoidl
- Department of Biology & Center for Vision Research (CVR), York University, Toronto, ON M3J 1P3, Canada
| | - David C. Spray
- Dominick P. Purpura Department of Neuroscience & Department of Medicine (Cardiology), Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, NY 10461, USA;
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16
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González-Casanova J, Schmachtenberg O, Martínez AD, Sanchez HA, Harcha PA, Rojas-Gomez D. An Update on Connexin Gap Junction and Hemichannels in Diabetic Retinopathy. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22063194. [PMID: 33801118 PMCID: PMC8004116 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22063194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2021] [Revised: 03/06/2021] [Accepted: 03/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is one of the main causes of vision loss in the working age population. It is characterized by a progressive deterioration of the retinal microvasculature, caused by long-term metabolic alterations inherent to diabetes, leading to a progressive loss of retinal integrity and function. The mammalian retina presents an orderly layered structure that executes initial but complex visual processing and analysis. Gap junction channels (GJC) forming electrical synapses are present in each retinal layer and contribute to the communication between different cell types. In addition, connexin hemichannels (HCs) have emerged as relevant players that influence diverse physiological and pathological processes in the retina. This article highlights the impact of diabetic conditions on GJC and HCs physiology and their involvement in DR pathogenesis. Microvascular damage and concomitant loss of endothelial cells and pericytes are related to alterations in gap junction intercellular communication (GJIC) and decreased connexin 43 (Cx43) expression. On the other hand, it has been shown that the expression and activity of HCs are upregulated in DR, becoming a key element in the establishment of proinflammatory conditions that emerge during hyperglycemia. Hence, novel connexin HCs blockers or drugs to enhance GJIC are promising tools for the development of pharmacological interventions for diabetic retinopathy, and initial in vitro and in vivo studies have shown favorable results in this regard.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorge González-Casanova
- Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Autónoma de Chile, Santiago 8910060, Chile;
| | - Oliver Schmachtenberg
- Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencia de Valparaíso, Instituto de Biología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso 2360102, Chile;
| | - Agustín D. Martínez
- Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencia de Valparaíso, Instituto de Neurociencia, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso 2360102, Chile; (A.D.M.); (H.A.S.); (P.A.H.)
| | - Helmuth A. Sanchez
- Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencia de Valparaíso, Instituto de Neurociencia, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso 2360102, Chile; (A.D.M.); (H.A.S.); (P.A.H.)
| | - Paloma A. Harcha
- Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencia de Valparaíso, Instituto de Neurociencia, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso 2360102, Chile; (A.D.M.); (H.A.S.); (P.A.H.)
| | - Diana Rojas-Gomez
- Escuela de Nutrición y Dietética, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Andres Bello, Santiago 8370146, Chile
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +56-2-26618559
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