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De Bock M, De Smet MA, Verwaerde S, Tahiri H, Schumacher S, Van Haver V, Witschas K, Steinhäuser C, Rouach N, Vandenbroucke RE, Leybaert L. Targeting gliovascular connexins prevents inflammatory blood-brain barrier leakage and astrogliosis. JCI Insight 2022; 7:135263. [PMID: 35881483 PMCID: PMC9462469 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.135263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2019] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The blood-brain barrier is formed by capillary endothelial cells expressing Cx37, Cx40 and Cx43, and is joined by closely apposed astrocytes expressing Cx43 and Cx30. We investigated whether connexin-targeting peptides could limit barrier leakage triggered by LPS-induced systemic inflammation in mice. Intraperitoneal LPS increased endothelial and astrocytic Cx43 expression, elevated TNFα, IL1β, IFNγ and IL6 in plasma and IL6 in the brain, and induced barrier leakage recorded over 24h. Barrier leakage was largely prevented by global Cx43 knockdown and Cx43/Cx30 double-knockout in astrocytes, slightly diminished by endothelial Cx43 knockout and not protected by global Cx30 knockout. Intravenous administration of Gap27 or Tat-Gap19 just before LPS also prevented barrier leakage, and intravenous BAPTA-AM to chelate intracellular calcium was equally effective. Patch-clamp experiments demonstrated LPS-induced Cx43 hemichannel opening in endothelial cells, which was suppressed by Gap27, Gap19 and BAPTA. LPS additionally triggered astrogliosis that was prevented by intravenous Tat-Gap19 or BAPTA-AM. Cortically applied Tat-Gap19 or BAPTA-AM to primarily target astrocytes, also strongly diminished barrier leakage. In vivo dye uptake and in vitro patch-clamp showed Cx43 hemichannel opening in astrocytes that was induced by IL6 in a calcium-dependent manner. We conclude that targeting endothelial and astrocytic connexins is a powerful approach to limit barrier failure and astrogliosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marijke De Bock
- Department of Basic & Applied Medical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Maarten Aj De Smet
- Department of Basic & Applied Medical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Stijn Verwaerde
- Department of Basic & Applied Medical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Hanane Tahiri
- Department of Basic & Applied Medical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Steffi Schumacher
- Department of Basic & Applied Medical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Valérie Van Haver
- Department of Basic & Applied Medical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Katja Witschas
- Department of Basic & Applied Medical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | | | - Nathalie Rouach
- Center for Interdisiplinary Research in Biology (CIRB), College de France, Paris, France
| | | | - Luc Leybaert
- Department of Basic & Applied Medical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
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2
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Hoorelbeke D, Decrock E, De Smet M, De Bock M, Descamps B, Van Haver V, Delvaeye T, Krysko DV, Vanhove C, Bultynck G, Leybaert L. Cx43 channels and signaling via IP 3/Ca 2+, ATP, and ROS/NO propagate radiation-induced DNA damage to non-irradiated brain microvascular endothelial cells. Cell Death Dis 2020; 11:194. [PMID: 32188841 PMCID: PMC7080808 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-020-2392-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2019] [Revised: 02/17/2020] [Accepted: 02/18/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Radiotherapeutic treatment consists of targeted application of radiation beams to a tumor but exposure of surrounding healthy tissue is inevitable. In the brain, ionizing radiation induces breakdown of the blood-brain barrier by effects on brain microvascular endothelial cells. Damage from directly irradiated cells can be transferred to surrounding non-exposed bystander cells, known as the radiation-induced bystander effect. We investigated involvement of connexin channels and paracrine signaling in radiation-induced bystander DNA damage in brain microvascular endothelial cells exposed to focused X-rays. Irradiation caused DNA damage in the directly exposed area, which propagated over several millimeters in the bystander area. DNA damage was significantly reduced by the connexin channel-targeting peptide Gap26 and the Cx43 hemichannel blocker TAT-Gap19. ATP release, dye uptake, and patch clamp experiments showed that hemichannels opened within 5 min post irradiation in both irradiated and bystander areas. Bystander signaling involved cellular Ca2+ dynamics and IP3, ATP, ROS, and NO signaling, with Ca2+, IP3, and ROS as crucial propagators of DNA damage. We conclude that bystander effects are communicated by a concerted cascade involving connexin channels, and IP3/Ca2+, ATP, ROS, and NO as major contributors of regenerative signal expansion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Delphine Hoorelbeke
- Physiology group, Department of Basic and Applied Medical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Elke Decrock
- Physiology group, Department of Basic and Applied Medical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Maarten De Smet
- Physiology group, Department of Basic and Applied Medical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Marijke De Bock
- Physiology group, Department of Basic and Applied Medical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Benedicte Descamps
- Infinity Lab, IBiTech-MEDISIP, Department of Electronics and Information Systems, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Valérie Van Haver
- Physiology group, Department of Basic and Applied Medical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Tinneke Delvaeye
- Physiology group, Department of Basic and Applied Medical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Dmitri V Krysko
- Cell Death Investigation and Therapy Laboratory, Department of Human Structure and Repair, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.,Department of Physiology, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moskow, Russia
| | - Christian Vanhove
- Infinity Lab, IBiTech-MEDISIP, Department of Electronics and Information Systems, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Geert Bultynck
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Luc Leybaert
- Physiology group, Department of Basic and Applied Medical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.
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3
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Jacob S, Davies G, De Bock M, Hermans B, Wintmolders C, Bottelbergs A, Borgers M, Theunis C, Van Broeck B, Manyakov NV, Balschun D, Drinkenburg WHIM. Neural oscillations during cognitive processes in an App knock-in mouse model of Alzheimer's disease pathology. Sci Rep 2019; 9:16363. [PMID: 31705038 PMCID: PMC6841667 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-51928-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2019] [Accepted: 10/10/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Multiple animal models have been created to gain insight into Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathology. Among the most commonly used models are transgenic mice overexpressing human amyloid precursor protein (APP) with mutations linked to familial AD, resulting in the formation of amyloid β plaques, one of the pathological hallmarks observed in AD patients. However, recent evidence suggests that the overexpression of APP by itself can confound some of the reported observations. Therefore, we investigated in the present study the AppNL-G-Fmodel, an App knock-in (App-KI) mouse model that develops amyloidosis in the absence of APP-overexpression. Our findings at the behavioral, electrophysiological, and histopathological level confirmed an age-dependent increase in Aβ1-42 levels and plaque deposition in these mice in accordance with previous reports. This had apparently no consequences on cognitive performance in a visual discrimination (VD) task, which was largely unaffected in AppNL-G-F mice at the ages tested. Additionally, we investigated neurophysiological functioning of several brain areas by phase-amplitude coupling (PAC) analysis, a measure associated with adequate cognitive functioning, during the VD task (starting at 4.5 months) and the exploration of home environment (at 5 and 8 months of age). While we did not detect age-dependent changes in PAC during home environment exploration for both the wild-type and the AppNL-G-F mice, we did observe subtle changes in PAC in the wild-type mice that were not present in the AppNL-G-F mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofia Jacob
- Department of Neuroscience, Janssen Research & Development, a Division of Janssen Pharmaceutica NV, Beerse, Belgium
- Brain & Cognition, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Gethin Davies
- Department of Neuroscience, Janssen Research & Development, a Division of Janssen Pharmaceutica NV, Beerse, Belgium
| | - Marijke De Bock
- Department of Neuroscience, Janssen Research & Development, a Division of Janssen Pharmaceutica NV, Beerse, Belgium
| | - Bart Hermans
- Department of Neuroscience, Janssen Research & Development, a Division of Janssen Pharmaceutica NV, Beerse, Belgium
| | - Cindy Wintmolders
- Department of Neuroscience, Janssen Research & Development, a Division of Janssen Pharmaceutica NV, Beerse, Belgium
| | - Astrid Bottelbergs
- Department of Neuroscience, Janssen Research & Development, a Division of Janssen Pharmaceutica NV, Beerse, Belgium
| | - Marianne Borgers
- Department of Neuroscience, Janssen Research & Development, a Division of Janssen Pharmaceutica NV, Beerse, Belgium
| | - Clara Theunis
- Department of Neuroscience, Janssen Research & Development, a Division of Janssen Pharmaceutica NV, Beerse, Belgium
| | - Bianca Van Broeck
- Department of Neuroscience, Janssen Research & Development, a Division of Janssen Pharmaceutica NV, Beerse, Belgium
| | - Nikolay V Manyakov
- Digital Phenotyping, Janssen Research & Development, a Division of Janssen Pharmaceutica NV, Beerse, Belgium
| | | | - Wilhelmus H I M Drinkenburg
- Department of Neuroscience, Janssen Research & Development, a Division of Janssen Pharmaceutica NV, Beerse, Belgium.
- Groningen Institute for Evolutionary Life Sciences, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands.
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Freitas-Andrade M, Wang N, Bechberger JF, De Bock M, Lampe PD, Leybaert L, Naus CC. Targeting MAPK phosphorylation of Connexin43 provides neuroprotection in stroke. J Exp Med 2019; 216:916-935. [PMID: 30872361 PMCID: PMC6446879 DOI: 10.1084/jem.20171452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2017] [Revised: 03/31/2018] [Accepted: 02/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
This study demonstrates that astrocytic connexin43 gap junction hemichannels are largely controlled by four C-terminal tail–located serine residues and provides mechanistic insight on how phosphorylation of these residues affects recovery from stroke. Connexin43 (Cx43) function is influenced by kinases that phosphorylate specific serine sites located near its C-terminus. Stroke is a powerful inducer of kinase activity, but its effect on Cx43 is unknown. We investigated the impact of wild-type (WT) and knock-in Cx43 with serine to alanine mutations at the protein kinase C (PKC) site Cx43S368A, the casein kinase 1 (CK1) sites Cx43S325A/328Y/330A, and the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) sites Cx43S255/262/279/282A (MK4) on a permanent middle cerebral artery occlusion (pMCAO) stroke model. We demonstrate that MK4 transgenic animals exhibit a significant decrease in infarct volume that was associated with improvement in behavioral performance. An increase in astrocyte reactivity with a concomitant decrease in microglial reactivity was observed in MK4 mice. In contrast to WT, MK4 astrocytes displayed reduced Cx43 hemichannel activity. Pharmacological blockade of Cx43 hemichannels with TAT-Gap19 also significantly decreased infarct volume in WT animals. This study provides novel molecular insights and charts new avenues for therapeutic intervention associated with Cx43 function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moises Freitas-Andrade
- Cellular & Physiological Sciences, Life Sciences Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Nan Wang
- Basic and Applied Medical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - John F Bechberger
- Cellular & Physiological Sciences, Life Sciences Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Marijke De Bock
- Basic and Applied Medical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Paul D Lampe
- Translational Research Program, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA
| | - Luc Leybaert
- Basic and Applied Medical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Christian C Naus
- Cellular & Physiological Sciences, Life Sciences Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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Hoorelbeke D, Decrock E, Van Haver V, De Bock M, Leybaert L. Calcium, a pivotal player in photodynamic therapy? Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Cell Res 2018; 1865:1805-1814. [PMID: 30076858 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2018.07.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2018] [Revised: 06/28/2018] [Accepted: 07/30/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Photodynamic therapy combines three non-toxic components: light, oxygen and a photosensitizer to generate singlet oxygen and/or other ROS molecules in order to target destruction of cancer cells. The damage induced in the targeted cells can furthermore propagate to non-exposed bystander cells thereby exacerbating the damage. Ca2+ signaling is strongly intertwined with ROS signaling and both play crucial roles in cell death. In this review we aimed to review current knowledge on the role of Ca2+ and ROS signaling, their effect on cell-cell propagation via connexin-linked mechanisms and the outcome in terms of cell death. In general, photodynamic therapy results in an increased cytosolic Ca2+ concentration originating from Ca2+ entry or Ca2+ release from internal stores. While photodynamic therapy can certainly induce cell death, the outcome depends on the cell type and the photosensitizer used. Connexin channels propagating the Ca2+ signal, and presumably regenerating ROS at distance, may play a role in spreading the effect to neighboring non-exposed bystander cells. Given the various cell types and photosensitizers used, there is currently no unified signaling scheme to explain the role of Ca2+ and connexins in the responses following photodynamic therapy. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Calcium signaling in health, disease and therapy edited by Geert Bultynck and Jan Parys.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Elke Decrock
- Physiology group, Dept. of Basic Medical Sciences, UGent, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Valérie Van Haver
- Physiology group, Dept. of Basic Medical Sciences, UGent, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Marijke De Bock
- Physiology group, Dept. of Basic Medical Sciences, UGent, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Luc Leybaert
- Physiology group, Dept. of Basic Medical Sciences, UGent, Ghent, Belgium.
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6
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Decrock E, Hoorelbeke D, Ramadan R, Delvaeye T, De Bock M, Wang N, Krysko DV, Baatout S, Bultynck G, Aerts A, Vinken M, Leybaert L. Calcium, oxidative stress and connexin channels, a harmonious orchestra directing the response to radiotherapy treatment? Biochimica et Biophysica Acta (BBA) - Molecular Cell Research 2017; 1864:1099-1120. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2017.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2016] [Revised: 02/02/2017] [Accepted: 02/04/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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7
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Bol M, Wang N, De Bock M, Wacquier B, Decrock E, Gadicherla A, Decaluwé K, Vanheel B, van Rijen HVM, Krysko DV, Bultynck G, Dupont G, Van de Voorde J, Leybaert L. At the cross-point of connexins, calcium, and ATP: blocking hemichannels inhibits vasoconstriction of rat small mesenteric arteries. Cardiovasc Res 2017; 113:195-206. [PMID: 27677282 DOI: 10.1093/cvr/cvw215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2016] [Revised: 09/22/2016] [Accepted: 09/25/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
AIMS Connexins form gap-junctions (GJs) that directly connect cells, thereby coordinating vascular cell function and controlling vessel diameter and blood flow. GJs are composed of two hemichannels contributed by each of the connecting cells. Hemichannels also exist as non-junctional channels that, when open, lead to the entry/loss of ions and the escape of ATP. Here we investigated cross-talk between hemichannels and Ca2+/purinergic signalling in controlling blood vessel contraction. We hypothesized that hemichannel Ca2+ entry and ATP release contributes to smooth muscle cell (SMC) Ca2+ dynamics, thereby influencing vessel contractility. We applied several peptide modulators of hemichannel function and inhibitors of Ca2+ and ATP signalling to investigate their influence on SMC Ca2+ dynamics and vessel contractility. METHODS AND RESULTS Confocal Ca2+ imaging studies on small mesenteric arteries (SMAs) from rat demonstrated that norepinephrine-induced SMC Ca2+ oscillations were inhibited by blocking IP3 receptors with xestospongin-C and by interfering with hemichannel function, most notably by the specific Cx43 hemichannel blocking peptide TAT-L2 and by TAT-CT9 that promotes Cx43 hemichannel opening. Evidence for hemichannel involvement in SMC function was supported by the fact that TAT-CT9 significantly increased SMC resting cytoplasmic Ca2+ concentration, indicating it facilitated Ca2+ entry, and by the observation that norepinephrine-triggered vessel ATP release was blocked by TAT-L2. Myograph tension measurements on isolated SMAs showed significant inhibition of norepinephrine-triggered contractility by the ATP receptor antagonist suramin, but the strongest effect was observed with TAT-L2 that gave ∼80% inhibition at 37 °C. TAT-L2 inhibition of vessel contraction was significantly reduced in conditional Cx43 knockout animals, indicating the effect was Cx43 hemichannel-dependent. Computational modelling suggested these results could be explained by the opening of a single hemichannel per SMC. CONCLUSIONS These results indicate that Cx43 hemichannels contribute to SMC Ca2+ dynamics and contractility, by facilitating Ca2+ entry, ATP release, and purinergic signalling.
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MESH Headings
- Adenosine Triphosphate/metabolism
- Animals
- Calcium/metabolism
- Calcium Signaling/drug effects
- Cell Communication/drug effects
- Computer Simulation
- Connexin 43/antagonists & inhibitors
- Connexin 43/deficiency
- Connexin 43/genetics
- Connexin 43/metabolism
- Connexins/antagonists & inhibitors
- Connexins/metabolism
- Female
- Gap Junctions/drug effects
- Gap Junctions/metabolism
- Genotype
- In Vitro Techniques
- Inositol 1,4,5-Trisphosphate Receptors/agonists
- Inositol 1,4,5-Trisphosphate Receptors/metabolism
- Mesenteric Arteries/drug effects
- Mesenteric Arteries/metabolism
- Mice, Knockout
- Microscopy, Confocal
- Models, Cardiovascular
- Muscle, Smooth, Vascular/drug effects
- Muscle, Smooth, Vascular/metabolism
- Myocytes, Smooth Muscle/drug effects
- Myocytes, Smooth Muscle/metabolism
- Norepinephrine/pharmacology
- Peptides/pharmacology
- Phenotype
- Purinergic Antagonists/pharmacology
- Rats, Wistar
- Time Factors
- Vasoconstriction/drug effects
- Vasoconstrictor Agents/pharmacology
- Vasodilator Agents/pharmacology
- Gap Junction alpha-4 Protein
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Affiliation(s)
- Mélissa Bol
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Physiology Group, Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences, Ghent University, De Pintelaan 185 (Block B, Room 031), 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Nan Wang
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Physiology Group, Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences, Ghent University, De Pintelaan 185 (Block B, Room 031), 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Marijke De Bock
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Physiology Group, Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences, Ghent University, De Pintelaan 185 (Block B, Room 031), 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Benjamin Wacquier
- Unité de Chronobiologie Théorique, Faculté des Sciences, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), 1000 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Elke Decrock
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Physiology Group, Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences, Ghent University, De Pintelaan 185 (Block B, Room 031), 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Ashish Gadicherla
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Physiology Group, Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences, Ghent University, De Pintelaan 185 (Block B, Room 031), 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Kelly Decaluwé
- Department of Pharmacology, Vascular Research Unit, Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Bert Vanheel
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Physiology Group, Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences, Ghent University, De Pintelaan 185 (Block B, Room 031), 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Harold Victor Maria van Rijen
- Department of Medical Physiology, Division of Heart and Lungs, University Medical Center Utrecht, 3508 GA Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Dmitri Vadim Krysko
- Molecular Signaling and Cell Death Unit, VIB Inflammation Research Center, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Biomedical Molecular Biology, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Geert Bultynck
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Signalling, Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, KULeuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Geneviève Dupont
- Unité de Chronobiologie Théorique, Faculté des Sciences, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), 1000 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Johan Van de Voorde
- Department of Pharmacology, Vascular Research Unit, Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Luc Leybaert
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Physiology Group, Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences, Ghent University, De Pintelaan 185 (Block B, Room 031), 9000 Ghent, Belgium;
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Crespo Yanguas S, Willebrords J, Johnstone SR, Maes M, Decrock E, De Bock M, Leybaert L, Cogliati B, Vinken M. Pannexin1 as mediator of inflammation and cell death. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Cell Res 2016; 1864:51-61. [PMID: 27741412 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2016.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2016] [Revised: 10/07/2016] [Accepted: 10/08/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Pannexins form channels at the plasma membrane surface that establish a pathway for communication between the cytosol of individual cells and their extracellular environment. By doing so, pannexin signaling dictates several physiological functions, but equally underlies a number of pathological processes. Indeed, pannexin channels drive inflammation by assisting in the activation of inflammasomes, the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines, and the activation and migration of leukocytes. Furthermore, these cellular pores facilitate cell death, including apoptosis, pyroptosis and autophagy. The present paper reviews the roles of pannexin channels in inflammation and cell death. In a first part, a state-of-the-art overview of pannexin channel structure, regulation and function is provided. In a second part, the mechanisms behind their involvement in inflammation and cell death are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Crespo Yanguas
- Department of In Vitro Toxicology and Dermato-Cosmetology, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Joost Willebrords
- Department of In Vitro Toxicology and Dermato-Cosmetology, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Scott R Johnstone
- College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, British Heart Foundation Glasgow Cardiovascular Research Centre, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Michaël Maes
- Department of In Vitro Toxicology and Dermato-Cosmetology, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Elke Decrock
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Physiology group, Ghent University, Gent, Belgium
| | - Marijke De Bock
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Physiology group, Ghent University, Gent, Belgium
| | - Luc Leybaert
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Physiology group, Ghent University, Gent, Belgium
| | - Bruno Cogliati
- Department of Pathology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Mathieu Vinken
- Department of In Vitro Toxicology and Dermato-Cosmetology, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium.
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9
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De Bock M, Van Haver V, Vandenbroucke RE, Decrock E, Wang N, Leybaert L. Into rather unexplored terrain-transcellular transport across the blood-brain barrier. Glia 2016; 64:1097-123. [DOI: 10.1002/glia.22960] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2015] [Revised: 11/16/2015] [Accepted: 12/03/2015] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Marijke De Bock
- Physiology Group, Department of Basic Medical Sciences; Ghent University; Ghent Belgium
| | - Valérie Van Haver
- Physiology Group, Department of Basic Medical Sciences; Ghent University; Ghent Belgium
| | - Roosmarijn E. Vandenbroucke
- Inflammation Research Center, VIB; Ghent Belgium
- Department of Biomedical Molecular Biology; Ghent University; Ghent Belgium
| | - Elke Decrock
- Physiology Group, Department of Basic Medical Sciences; Ghent University; Ghent Belgium
| | - Nan Wang
- Physiology Group, Department of Basic Medical Sciences; Ghent University; Ghent Belgium
| | - Luc Leybaert
- Physiology Group, Department of Basic Medical Sciences; Ghent University; Ghent Belgium
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10
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Decrock E, De Bock M, Wang N, Bol M, Gadicherla AK, Leybaert L. Electroporation loading of membrane-impermeable molecules to investigate intra- and intercellular Ca2+ signaling. Cold Spring Harb Protoc 2015; 2015:284-8. [PMID: 25734060 DOI: 10.1101/pdb.prot076562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Electroporation is a technique that temporarily induces pores in the plasma membranes of cells, thereby allowing plasma membrane-impermeable substances to enter the cells. This loading method requires an electrical drive circuit providing an electroporation signal, an electrode to apply the signal to a localized zone in a cell monolayer, and a special solution that has a low electrical conductivity. To avoid impairment of cell function and cell death from the electroporation procedure itself, the applied electrical signal should ideally be a high-frequency oscillating signal (50 kHz) without any direct current (DC) component. Here, we describe the detailed procedure of electroporation loading.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elke Decrock
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Physiology Group, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Marijke De Bock
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Physiology Group, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Nan Wang
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Physiology Group, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Mélissa Bol
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Physiology Group, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Ashish K Gadicherla
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Physiology Group, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Luc Leybaert
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Physiology Group, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
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Decrock E, De Bock M, Wang N, Bol M, Gadicherla AK, Leybaert L. Flash photolysis of caged IP3 to trigger intercellular Ca2+ waves. Cold Spring Harb Protoc 2015; 2015:289-92. [PMID: 25734061 DOI: 10.1101/pdb.prot076570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Caged IP3 is an inactive form of the second messenger IP3, consisting of the biologically active molecule linked to a cage group through a photolabile bond. This bond is cleaved by exposure to brief "flashes" of ultraviolet (UV) light, thereby releasing the active IP3 molecule. The protection of caged IP3 against metabolic transformation in combination with a defined time point of fast photoliberation of IP3 provides an efficient way to temporally and spatially control the cytosolic release of IP3 and subsequent increase of cytoplasmic Ca(2+). These properties make it an ideal method for kinetic studies and also a well-suited procedure to initiate intercellular Ca(2+) waves from a point source of IP3. This protocol describes cell loading with membrane impermeable caged IP3 and the UV flash illumination procedure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elke Decrock
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Physiology Group, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Marijke De Bock
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Physiology Group, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Nan Wang
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Physiology Group, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Mélissa Bol
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Physiology Group, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Ashish K Gadicherla
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Physiology Group, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Luc Leybaert
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Physiology Group, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
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12
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Decrock E, De Bock M, Wang N, Bol M, Gadicherla AK, Leybaert L. Electroporation loading and flash photolysis to investigate intra- and intercellular Ca2+ signaling. Cold Spring Harb Protoc 2015; 2015:239-49. [PMID: 25734071 DOI: 10.1101/pdb.top066068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Many cellular functions are driven by variations in the intracellular Ca(2+) concentration ([Ca(2+)]i), which may appear as a single-event transient [Ca(2+)]i elevation, repetitive [Ca(2+)]i increases known as Ca(2+) oscillations, or [Ca(2+)]i increases propagating in the cytoplasm as Ca(2+) waves. Additionally, [Ca(2+)]i changes can be communicated between cells as intercellular Ca(2+) waves (ICWs). ICWs are mediated by two possible mechanisms acting in parallel: one involving gap junctions that form channels directly linking the cytoplasm of adjacent cells and one involving a paracrine messenger, in most cases ATP, that is released into the extracellular space, leading to [Ca(2+)]i changes in neighboring cells. The intracellular messenger inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3) that triggers Ca(2+) release from Ca(2+) stores is crucial in these two ICW propagation scenarios, and is also a potent trigger to initiate ICWs. Loading inactive, "caged" IP3 into cells followed by photolytic "uncaging" with UV light, thereby liberating IP3, is a well-established method to trigger [Ca(2+)]i changes in single cells that is also effective in initiating ICWs. We here describe a method to load cells with caged IP3 by local electroporation of monolayer cell cultures and to apply flash photolysis to increase intracellular IP3 and induce [Ca(2+)]i changes, or initiate ICWs. Moreover, the electroporation method allows loading of membrane-impermeable agents that interfere with IP3 and Ca(2+) signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elke Decrock
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Physiology Group, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Marijke De Bock
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Physiology Group, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Nan Wang
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Physiology Group, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Mélissa Bol
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Physiology Group, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Ashish K Gadicherla
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Physiology Group, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Luc Leybaert
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Physiology Group, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
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Abudara V, Bechberger J, Freitas-Andrade M, De Bock M, Wang N, Bultynck G, Naus CC, Leybaert L, Giaume C. The connexin43 mimetic peptide Gap19 inhibits hemichannels without altering gap junctional communication in astrocytes. Front Cell Neurosci 2014; 8:306. [PMID: 25374505 PMCID: PMC4204617 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2014.00306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 134] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2014] [Accepted: 09/10/2014] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
In the brain, astrocytes represent the cellular population that expresses the highest amount of connexins (Cxs). This family of membrane proteins is the molecular constituent of gap junction channels and hemichannels that provide pathways for direct cytoplasm-to-cytoplasm and inside-out exchange, respectively. Both types of Cx channels are permeable to ions and small signaling molecules allowing astrocytes to establish dynamic interactions with neurons. So far, most pharmacological approaches currently available do not distinguish between these two channel functions, stressing the need to develop new specific molecular tools. In astrocytes two major Cxs are expressed, Cx43 and Cx30, and there is now evidence indicating that at least Cx43 operates as a gap junction channel as well as a hemichannel in these cells. Based on studies in primary cultures as well as in acute hippocampal slices, we report here that Gap19, a nonapeptide derived from the cytoplasmic loop of Cx43, inhibits astroglial Cx43 hemichannels in a dose-dependent manner, without affecting gap junction channels. This peptide, which not only selectively inhibits hemichannels but is also specific for Cx43, can be delivered in vivo in mice as TAT-Gap19, and displays penetration into the brain parenchyma. As a result, Gap19 combined with other tools opens up new avenues to decipher the role of Cx43 hemichannels in interactions between astrocytes and neurons in physiological as well as pathological situations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Verónica Abudara
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Biology, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Collège de France Paris, France
| | - John Bechberger
- Department of Cellular and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Life Sciences Institute, University of British Columbia Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Moises Freitas-Andrade
- Department of Cellular and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Life Sciences Institute, University of British Columbia Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Marijke De Bock
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences - Physiology Group, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University Ghent, Belgium
| | - Nan Wang
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences - Physiology Group, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University Ghent, Belgium
| | - Geert Bultynck
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Signaling, Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Christian C Naus
- Department of Cellular and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Life Sciences Institute, University of British Columbia Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Luc Leybaert
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences - Physiology Group, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University Ghent, Belgium
| | - Christian Giaume
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Biology, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Collège de France Paris, France
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14
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De Bock M, Decrock E, Wang N, Bol M, Vinken M, Bultynck G, Leybaert L. The dual face of connexin-based astroglial Ca(2+) communication: a key player in brain physiology and a prime target in pathology. Biochim Biophys Acta 2014; 1843:2211-32. [PMID: 24768716 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2014.04.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2014] [Revised: 04/11/2014] [Accepted: 04/12/2014] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
For decades, studies have been focusing on the neuronal abnormalities that accompany neurodegenerative disorders. Yet, glial cells are emerging as important players in numerous neurological diseases. Astrocytes, the main type of glia in the central nervous system , form extensive networks that physically and functionally connect neuronal synapses with cerebral blood vessels. Normal brain functioning strictly depends on highly specialized cellular cross-talk between these different partners to which Ca(2+), as a signaling ion, largely contributes. Altered intracellular Ca(2+) levels are associated with neurodegenerative disorders and play a crucial role in the glial responses to injury. Intracellular Ca(2+) increases in single astrocytes can be propagated toward neighboring cells as intercellular Ca(2+) waves, thereby recruiting a larger group of cells. Intercellular Ca(2+) wave propagation depends on two, parallel, connexin (Cx) channel-based mechanisms: i) the diffusion of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate through gap junction channels that directly connect the cytoplasm of neighboring cells, and ii) the release of paracrine messengers such as glutamate and ATP through hemichannels ('half of a gap junction channel'). This review gives an overview of the current knowledge on Cx-mediated Ca(2+) communication among astrocytes as well as between astrocytes and other brain cell types in physiology and pathology, with a focus on the processes of neurodegeneration and reactive gliosis. Research on Cx-mediated astroglial Ca(2+) communication may ultimately shed light on the development of targeted therapies for neurodegenerative disorders in which astrocytes participate. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Calcium signaling in health and disease. Guest Editors: Geert Bultynck, Jacques Haiech, Claus W. Heizmann, Joachim Krebs, and Marc Moreau.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marijke De Bock
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Physiology group, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Elke Decrock
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Physiology group, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Nan Wang
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Physiology group, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Mélissa Bol
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Physiology group, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Mathieu Vinken
- Department of Toxicology, Center for Pharmaceutical Research, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, B-1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Geert Bultynck
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Signalling, KULeuven, Campus Gasthuisberg O/N-I bus 802, B-3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Luc Leybaert
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Physiology group, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium
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15
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Wang N, De Bock M, Decrock E, Bol M, Gadicherla A, Bultynck G, Leybaert L. Connexin targeting peptides as inhibitors of voltage- and intracellular Ca2+-triggered Cx43 hemichannel opening. Neuropharmacology 2013; 75:506-16. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2013.08.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2013] [Revised: 08/19/2013] [Accepted: 08/20/2013] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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16
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De Bock M, Kerrebrouck M, Wang N, Leybaert L. Neurological manifestations of oculodentodigital dysplasia: a Cx43 channelopathy of the central nervous system? Front Pharmacol 2013; 4:120. [PMID: 24133447 PMCID: PMC3783840 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2013.00120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2013] [Accepted: 09/02/2013] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The coordination of tissue function is mediated by gap junctions (GJs) that enable direct cell–cell transfer of metabolic and electric signals. GJs are formed by connexins of which Cx43 is most widespread in the human body. In the brain, Cx43 GJs are mostly found in astroglia where they coordinate the propagation of Ca2+ waves, spatial K+ buffering, and distribution of glucose. Beyond its role in direct intercellular communication, Cx43 also forms unapposed, non-junctional hemichannels in the plasma membrane of glial cells. These allow the passage of several neuro- and gliotransmitters that may, combined with downstream paracrine signaling, complement direct GJ communication among glial cells and sustain glial-neuronal signaling. Mutations in the GJA1 gene encoding Cx43 have been identified in a rare, mostly autosomal dominant syndrome called oculodentodigital dysplasia (ODDD). ODDD patients display a pleiotropic phenotype reflected by eye, hand, teeth, and foot abnormalities, as well as craniofacial and bone malformations. Remarkably, neurological symptoms such as dysarthria, neurogenic bladder (manifested as urinary incontinence), spasticity or muscle weakness, ataxia, and epilepsy are other prominent features observed in ODDD patients. Over 10 mutations detected in patients diagnosed with neurological disorders are associated with altered functionality of Cx43 GJs/hemichannels, but the link between ODDD-related abnormal channel activities and neurologic phenotype is still elusive. Here, we present an overview on the nature of the mutants conveying structural and functional changes of Cx43 channels and discuss available evidence for aberrant Cx43 GJ and hemichannel function. In a final step, we examine the possibilities of how channel dysfunction may lead to some of the neurological manifestations of ODDD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marijke De Bock
- Physiology Group, Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Ghent University Ghent, Belgium
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17
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De Bock M, Wang N, Decrock E, Bol M, Gadicherla AK, Culot M, Cecchelli R, Bultynck G, Leybaert L. Endothelial calcium dynamics, connexin channels and blood-brain barrier function. Prog Neurobiol 2013; 108:1-20. [PMID: 23851106 DOI: 10.1016/j.pneurobio.2013.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 99] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2013] [Revised: 06/12/2013] [Accepted: 06/18/2013] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Situated between the circulation and the brain, the blood-brain barrier (BBB) protects the brain from circulating toxins while securing a specialized environment for neuro-glial signaling. BBB capillary endothelial cells exhibit low transcytotic activity and a tight, junctional network that, aided by the cytoskeleton, restricts paracellular permeability. The latter is subject of extensive research as it relates to neuropathology, edema and inflammation. A key determinant in regulating paracellular permeability is the endothelial cytoplasmic Ca(2+) concentration ([Ca(2+)]i) that affects junctional and cytoskeletal proteins. Ca(2+) signals are not one-time events restricted to a single cell but often appear as oscillatory [Ca(2+)]i changes that may propagate between cells as intercellular Ca(2+) waves. The effect of Ca(2+) oscillations/waves on BBB function is largely unknown and we here review current evidence on how [Ca(2+)]i dynamics influence BBB permeability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marijke De Bock
- Dept. of Basic Medical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.
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18
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Iyyathurai J, D'hondt C, Wang N, De Bock M, Himpens B, Retamal MA, Stehberg J, Leybaert L, Bultynck G. Peptides and peptide-derived molecules targeting the intracellular domains of Cx43: gap junctions versus hemichannels. Neuropharmacology 2013; 75:491-505. [PMID: 23664811 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2013.04.050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2013] [Revised: 04/17/2013] [Accepted: 04/18/2013] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
About a decade ago, the molecular determinants controlling the opening and closing of Cx43 gap junction channels have been identified. Advanced biophysical approaches revealed a critical role for structural rearrangements in the cytoplasmic loop and dimerization of the C-terminal tail, resulting in binding of the C-terminal tail to the cytoplasmic loop and Cx43 gap junction channel closure during cellular acidosis. This has spurred the development of Cx43-mimetic peptides and peptidomimetics that interfere with these loop/tail interactions, thereby preventing the closure of Cx43 gap junctions, e.g. in the heart upon ischemia. Recently, we found that loop/tail interactions control Cx43-hemichannel activity but with an opposite effect. Binding of the C-terminal tail to the cytoplasmic loop is a requisite for the opening of Cx43 hemichannels in response to different stimuli, like decreased extracellular [Ca2+], increased intracellular [Ca2+], positive membrane potentials or ischemia. Strikingly, peptides that favor the open state of Cx43 gap junctions like the L2 peptide inhibit Cx43-hemichannel opening. These tools now provide unprecedented opportunities to selectively inhibit Cx43 hemichannels while maintaining Cx43 gap junction communication, impossible to achieve with siRNA or knockdown approaches both affecting gap junctions and hemichannels. These tools not only are very helpful to unravel the role of Cx43 hemichannels in complex biological systems, but also hold therapeutic potential to counteract excessive Cx43-hemichannel activity like in ischemia/reperfusion in the brain and the heart or to prevent Cx43 hemichannel-mediated gliotransmitter release in the basal amygdala during memory consolidation in response to emotional events. This article is part of the Special Issue Section entitled 'Current Pharmacology of Gap Junction Channels and Hemichannels'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jegan Iyyathurai
- KU Leuven, Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Signaling, Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Campus Gasthuisberg O/N-I Bus 802, Herestraat 49, BE-3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Catheleyne D'hondt
- KU Leuven, Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Signaling, Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Campus Gasthuisberg O/N-I Bus 802, Herestraat 49, BE-3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Nan Wang
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Physiology Group, Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Ghent University, De Pintelaan 185 (Block B-Rm 310), B-9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Marijke De Bock
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Physiology Group, Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Ghent University, De Pintelaan 185 (Block B-Rm 310), B-9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Bernard Himpens
- KU Leuven, Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Signaling, Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Campus Gasthuisberg O/N-I Bus 802, Herestraat 49, BE-3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Mauricio A Retamal
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Medicina, Clínica Alemana-Universidad del Desarrollo, Santiago, Chile
| | - Jimmy Stehberg
- Universidad Andres Bello, Laboratorio de Neurobiologia, Departamento de Ciencias Biologicas, Facultad de Ciencias Biologicas & Facultad de Medicina, Santiago, Chile; Universidad Andres Bello, Centro de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Santiago, Chile
| | - Luc Leybaert
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Physiology Group, Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Ghent University, De Pintelaan 185 (Block B-Rm 310), B-9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Geert Bultynck
- KU Leuven, Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Signaling, Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Campus Gasthuisberg O/N-I Bus 802, Herestraat 49, BE-3000 Leuven, Belgium.
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Decrock E, De Bock M, Wang N, Gadicherla AK, Bol M, Delvaeye T, Vandenabeele P, Vinken M, Bultynck G, Krysko DV, Leybaert L. IP3, a small molecule with a powerful message. Biochim Biophys Acta 2013; 1833:1772-86. [PMID: 23291251 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2012.12.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2012] [Revised: 12/18/2012] [Accepted: 12/19/2012] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Research conducted over the past two decades has provided convincing evidence that cell death, and more specifically apoptosis, can exceed single cell boundaries and can be strongly influenced by intercellular communication networks. We recently reported that gap junctions (i.e. channels directly connecting the cytoplasm of neighboring cells) composed of connexin43 or connexin26 provide a direct pathway to promote and expand cell death, and that inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3) diffusion via these channels is crucial to provoke apoptosis in adjacent healthy cells. However, IP3 itself is not sufficient to induce cell death and additional factors appear to be necessary to create conditions in which IP3 will exert proapoptotic effects. Although IP3-evoked Ca(2+) signaling is known to be required for normal cell survival, it is also actively involved in apoptosis induction and progression. As such, it is evident that an accurate fine-tuning of this signaling mechanism is crucial for normal cell physiology, while a malfunction can lead to cell death. Here, we review the role of IP3 as an intracellular and intercellular cell death messenger, focusing on the endoplasmic reticulum-mitochondrial synapse, followed by a discussion of plausible elements that can convert IP3 from a physiological molecule to a killer substance. Finally, we highlight several pathological conditions in which anomalous intercellular IP3/Ca(2+) signaling might play a role. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled:12th European Symposium on Calcium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elke Decrock
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
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20
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Wang N, De Vuyst E, Ponsaerts R, Boengler K, Palacios-Prado N, Wauman J, Lai CP, De Bock M, Decrock E, Bol M, Vinken M, Rogiers V, Tavernier J, Evans WH, Naus CC, Bukauskas FF, Sipido KR, Heusch G, Schulz R, Bultynck G, Leybaert L. Selective inhibition of Cx43 hemichannels by Gap19 and its impact on myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury. Basic Res Cardiol 2012. [PMID: 23184389 DOI: 10.1007/s00395-012-0309-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 194] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Connexin-43 (Cx43), a predominant cardiac connexin, forms gap junctions (GJs) that facilitate electrical cell-cell coupling and unapposed/nonjunctional hemichannels that provide a pathway for the exchange of ions and metabolites between cytoplasm and extracellular milieu. Uncontrolled opening of hemichannels in the plasma membrane may be deleterious for the myocardium and blocking hemichannels may confer cardioprotection by preventing ionic imbalance, cell swelling and loss of critical metabolites. Currently, all known hemichannel inhibitors also block GJ channels, thereby disturbing electrical cell-cell communication. Here we aimed to characterize a nonapeptide, called Gap19, derived from the cytoplasmic loop (CL) of Cx43 as a hemichannel blocker and examined its effect on hemichannel currents in cardiomyocytes and its influence in cardiac outcome after ischemia/reperfusion. We report that Gap 19 inhibits Cx43 hemichannels without blocking GJ channels or Cx40/pannexin-1 hemichannels. Hemichannel inhibition is due to the binding of Gap19 to the C-terminus (CT) thereby preventing intramolecular CT-CL interactions. The peptide inhibited Cx43 hemichannel unitary currents in both HeLa cells exogenously expressing Cx43 and acutely isolated pig ventricular cardiomyocytes. Treatment with Gap19 prevented metabolic inhibition-enhanced hemichannel openings, protected cardiomyocytes against volume overload and cell death following ischemia/reperfusion in vitro and modestly decreased the infarct size after myocardial ischemia/reperfusion in mice in vivo. We conclude that preventing Cx43 hemichannel opening with Gap19 confers limited protective effects against myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nan Wang
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Physiology group, Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
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21
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Wang N, De Bock M, Antoons G, Gadicherla AK, Bol M, Decrock E, Evans WH, Sipido KR, Bukauskas FF, Leybaert L. Connexin mimetic peptides inhibit Cx43 hemichannel opening triggered by voltage and intracellular Ca2+ elevation. Basic Res Cardiol 2012; 107:304. [PMID: 23095853 DOI: 10.1007/s00395-012-0304-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 119] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2011] [Revised: 09/10/2012] [Accepted: 09/27/2012] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Connexin mimetic peptides (CxMPs), such as Gap26 and Gap27, are known as inhibitors of gap junction channels but evidence is accruing that these peptides also inhibit unapposed/non-junctional hemichannels (HCs) residing in the plasma membrane. We used voltage clamp studies to investigate the effect of Gap26/27 at the single channel level. Such an approach allows unequivocal identification of HC currents by their single channel conductance that is typically ~220 pS for Cx43. In HeLa cells stably transfected with Cx43 (HeLa-Cx43), Gap26/27 peptides inhibited Cx43 HC unitary currents over minutes and increased the voltage threshold for HC opening. By contrast, an elevation of intracellular calcium ([Ca(2+)](i)) to 200-500 nM potentiated the unitary HC current activity and lowered the voltage threshold for HC opening. Interestingly, Gap26/27 inhibited the Ca(2+)-potentiated HC currents and prevented lowering of the voltage threshold for HC opening. Experiments on isolated pig ventricular cardiomyocytes, which display strong endogenous Cx43 expression, demonstrated voltage-activated unitary currents with biophysical properties of Cx43 HCs that were inhibited by small interfering RNA targeting Cx43. As observed in HeLa-Cx43 cells, HC current activity in ventricular cardiomyocytes was potentiated by [Ca(2+)](i) elevation to 500 nM and was inhibited by Gap26/27. Our results indicate that under pathological conditions, when [Ca(2+)](i) is elevated, Cx43 HC opening is promoted in cardiomyocytes and CxMPs counteract this effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nan Wang
- Physiology Group, Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Belgium
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22
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Wang N, De Bock M, Decrock E, Bol M, Gadicherla A, Vinken M, Rogiers V, Bukauskas FF, Bultynck G, Leybaert L. Paracrine signaling through plasma membrane hemichannels. Biochim Biophys Acta 2012; 1828:35-50. [PMID: 22796188 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamem.2012.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 157] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2012] [Revised: 06/29/2012] [Accepted: 07/06/2012] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Plasma membrane hemichannels composed of connexin (Cx) proteins are essential components of gap junction channels but accumulating evidence suggests functions of hemichannels beyond the communication provided by junctional channels. Hemichannels not incorporated into gap junctions, called unapposed hemichannels, can open in response to a variety of signals, electrical and chemical, thereby forming a conduit between the cell's interior and the extracellular milieu. Open hemichannels allow the bidirectional passage of ions and small metabolic or signaling molecules of below 1-2kDa molecular weight. In addition to connexins, hemichannels can also be formed by pannexin (Panx) proteins and current evidence suggests that Cx26, Cx32, Cx36, Cx43 and Panx1, form hemichannels that allow the diffusive release of paracrine messengers. In particular, the case is strong for ATP but substantial evidence is also available for other messengers like glutamate and prostaglandins or metabolic substances like NAD(+) or glutathione. While this field is clearly in expansion, evidence is still lacking at essential points of the paracrine signaling cascade that includes not only messenger release, but also downstream receptor signaling and consequent functional effects. The data available at this moment largely derives from in vitro experiments and still suffers from the difficulty of separating the functions of connexin-based hemichannels from gap junctions and from pannexin hemichannels. However, messengers like ATP or glutamate have universal roles in the body and further defining the contribution of hemichannels as a possible release pathway is expected to open novel avenues for better understanding their contribution to a variety of physiological and pathological processes. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: The Communicating junctions, roles and dysfunctions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nan Wang
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
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De Bock M, Wang N, Bol M, Decrock E, Ponsaerts R, Bultynck G, Dupont G, Leybaert L. Connexin 43 hemichannels contribute to cytoplasmic Ca2+ oscillations by providing a bimodal Ca2+-dependent Ca2+ entry pathway. J Biol Chem 2012; 287:12250-66. [PMID: 22351781 PMCID: PMC3320976 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m111.299610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2011] [Revised: 02/16/2012] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Many cellular functions are driven by changes in the intracellular Ca(2+) concentration ([Ca(2+)](i)) that are highly organized in time and space. Ca(2+) oscillations are particularly important in this respect and are based on positive and negative [Ca(2+)](i) feedback on inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptors (InsP(3)Rs). Connexin hemichannels are Ca(2+)-permeable plasma membrane channels that are also controlled by [Ca(2+)](i). We aimed to investigate how hemichannels may contribute to Ca(2+) oscillations. Madin-Darby canine kidney cells expressing connexin-32 (Cx32) and Cx43 were exposed to bradykinin (BK) or ATP to induce Ca(2+) oscillations. BK-induced oscillations were rapidly (minutes) and reversibly inhibited by the connexin-mimetic peptides (32)Gap27/(43)Gap26, whereas ATP-induced oscillations were unaffected. Furthermore, these peptides inhibited the BK-triggered release of calcein, a hemichannel-permeable dye. BK-induced oscillations, but not those induced by ATP, were dependent on extracellular Ca(2+). Alleviating the negative feedback of [Ca(2+)](i) on InsP(3)Rs using cytochrome c inhibited BK- and ATP-induced oscillations. Cx32 and Cx43 hemichannels are activated by <500 nm [Ca(2+)](i) but inhibited by higher concentrations and CT9 peptide (last 9 amino acids of the Cx43 C terminus) removes this high [Ca(2+)](i) inhibition. Unlike interfering with the bell-shaped dependence of InsP(3)Rs to [Ca(2+)](i), CT9 peptide prevented BK-induced oscillations but not those triggered by ATP. Collectively, these data indicate that connexin hemichannels contribute to BK-induced oscillations by allowing Ca(2+) entry during the rising phase of the Ca(2+) spikes and by providing an OFF mechanism during the falling phase of the spikes. Hemichannels were not sufficient to ignite oscillations by themselves; however, their contribution was crucial as hemichannel inhibition stopped the oscillations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marijke De Bock
- From the Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Physiology Group, Ghent University 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Nan Wang
- From the Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Physiology Group, Ghent University 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Melissa Bol
- From the Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Physiology Group, Ghent University 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Elke Decrock
- From the Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Physiology Group, Ghent University 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Raf Ponsaerts
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology, Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Signaling, KULeuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium, and
| | - Geert Bultynck
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology, Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Signaling, KULeuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium, and
| | - Geneviève Dupont
- Theoretical Chronobiology Unit, Université Libre de Bruxelles, 1050 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Luc Leybaert
- From the Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Physiology Group, Ghent University 9000 Ghent, Belgium
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24
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De Bock M, Culot M, Wang N, Bol M, Decrock E, De Vuyst E, da Costa A, Dauwe I, Vinken M, Simon AM, Rogiers V, De Ley G, Evans WH, Bultynck G, Dupont G, Cecchelli R, Leybaert L. Connexin channels provide a target to manipulate brain endothelial calcium dynamics and blood-brain barrier permeability. J Cereb Blood Flow Metab 2011; 31:1942-57. [PMID: 21654699 PMCID: PMC3185887 DOI: 10.1038/jcbfm.2011.86] [Citation(s) in RCA: 123] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
The cytoplasmic Ca(2+) concentration ([Ca(2+)](i)) is an important factor determining the functional state of blood-brain barrier (BBB) endothelial cells but little is known on the effect of dynamic [Ca(2+)](i) changes on BBB function. We applied different agonists that trigger [Ca(2+)](i) oscillations and determined the involvement of connexin channels and subsequent effects on endothelial permeability in immortalized and primary brain endothelial cells. The inflammatory peptide bradykinin (BK) triggered [Ca(2+)](i) oscillations and increased endothelial permeability. The latter was prevented by buffering [Ca(2+)](i) with BAPTA, indicating that [Ca(2+)](i) oscillations are crucial in the permeability changes. Bradykinin-triggered [Ca(2+)](i) oscillations were inhibited by interfering with connexin channels, making use of carbenoxolone, Gap27, a peptide blocker of connexin channels, and Cx37/43 knockdown. Gap27 inhibition of the oscillations was rapid (within minutes) and work with connexin hemichannel-permeable dyes indicated hemichannel opening and purinergic signaling in response to stimulation with BK. Moreover, Gap27 inhibited the BK-triggered endothelial permeability increase in in vitro and in vivo experiments. By contrast, [Ca(2+)](i) oscillations provoked by exposure to adenosine 5' triphosphate (ATP) were not affected by carbenoxolone or Gap27 and ATP did not disturb endothelial permeability. We conclude that interfering with endothelial connexin hemichannels is a novel approach to limiting BBB-permeability alterations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marijke De Bock
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Physiology Group, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
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25
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Vinken M, Decrock E, De Vuyst E, De Bock M, Vandenbroucke RE, De Geest BG, Demeester J, Sanders NN, Vanhaecke T, Leybaert L, Rogiers V. Connexin32 hemichannels contribute to the apoptotic-to-necrotic transition during Fas-mediated hepatocyte cell death. Cell Mol Life Sci 2010; 67:907-18. [PMID: 19960225 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-009-0220-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2009] [Revised: 11/16/2009] [Accepted: 11/18/2009] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The present study was set up to investigate the fate of connexin32 and its channels in hepatocellular apoptosis. Primary hepatocyte cultures were exposed to Fas ligand and cycloheximide, and modifications in connexin32 expression and localization, and gap junction functionality were studied. We found that gap junction functionality rapidly declined upon progression of cell death, which was associated with a decay of the gap junctional connexin32 protein pool. Simultaneously, levels of newly synthesized connexin32 protein increased and gathered in a hemichannel configuration. This became particularly evident towards the end stages of the cell death process and was not reflected at the transcriptional level. We next either silenced connexin32 expression or inhibited connexin32 hemichannel activity prior to cell death induction. Both approaches resulted in a delayed termination of the cell death response. We conclude that connexin32 hemichannels facilitate the apoptotic-to-necrotic transition, which typically occurs in the final stage of hepatocellular apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mathieu Vinken
- Department of Toxicology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Belgium.
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26
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Van Moorhem M, Decrock E, Coussee E, Faes L, De Vuyst E, Vranckx K, De Bock M, Wang N, D'Herde K, Lambein F, Callewaert G, Leybaert L. L-beta-ODAP alters mitochondrial Ca2+ handling as an early event in excitotoxicity. Cell Calcium 2010; 47:287-96. [PMID: 20129666 DOI: 10.1016/j.ceca.2010.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2009] [Revised: 10/30/2009] [Accepted: 01/06/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
The neurotoxin beta-N-oxalyl-L-alpha,beta-diaminopropionic acid (L-beta-ODAP) is an L-glutamate analogue at alpha-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazole propionic acid (AMPA)/kainate receptors in neurons and therefore acts as an excitotoxic substance. Chronic exposure to L-beta-ODAP present in Lathyrus sativus L. (L. sativus) seeds is proposed as the cause of the neurodegenerative disease neurolathyrism, but the mechanism of its action has not been conclusively identified. A key factor in excitotoxic neuronal cell death is a disturbance of the intracellular Ca2+ homeostasis, including changes in the capacity of intracellular Ca2+ stores like the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) or mitochondria. In this study, aequorin and other Ca2+ indicators were used in N2a neuroblastoma cells to investigate alterations of cellular Ca2+ handling after 24 h exposure to L-beta-ODAP. Our data demonstrate increased mitochondrial Ca2+ loading and hyperpolarization of the mitochondrial membrane potential (Psi(m)), which was specific for L-beta-ODAP and not observed with L-glutamate. We conclude that L-beta-ODAP disturbs the ER-mitochondrial Ca2+ signaling axis and thereby renders the cells more vulnerable to its excitotoxic effects that ultimately will lead to cell death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marijke Van Moorhem
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences-Physiology Group, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, De Pintelaan 185 (Block B, 3th Floor), Ghent University, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium
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27
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De Vuyst E, Wang N, Decrock E, De Bock M, Vinken M, Van Moorhem M, Lai C, Culot M, Rogiers V, Cecchelli R, Naus CC, Evans WH, Leybaert L. Ca(2+) regulation of connexin 43 hemichannels in C6 glioma and glial cells. Cell Calcium 2009; 46:176-87. [PMID: 19656565 DOI: 10.1016/j.ceca.2009.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 163] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2009] [Revised: 06/01/2009] [Accepted: 07/08/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Connexin hemichannels have a low open probability under normal conditions but open in response to various stimuli, forming a release pathway for small paracrine messengers. We investigated hemichannel-mediated ATP responses triggered by changes of intracellular Ca(2+) ([Ca(2+)](i)) in Cx43 expressing glioma cells and primary glial cells. The involvement of hemichannels was confirmed with gja1 gene-silencing and exclusion of other release mechanisms. Hemichannel responses were triggered when [Ca(2+)](i) was in the 500nM range but the responses disappeared with larger [Ca(2+)](i) transients. Ca(2+)-triggered responses induced by A23187 and glutamate activated a signaling cascade that involved calmodulin (CaM), CaM-dependent kinase II, p38 mitogen activated kinase, phospholipase A2, arachidonic acid (AA), lipoxygenases, cyclo-oxygenases, reactive oxygen species, nitric oxide and depolarization. Hemichannel responses were also triggered by activation of CaM with a Ca(2+)-like peptide or exogenous application of AA, and the cascade was furthermore operational in primary glial cells isolated from rat cortex. In addition, several positive feed-back loops contributed to amplify the responses. We conclude that an elevation of [Ca(2+)](i) triggers hemichannel opening, not by a direct action of Ca(2+) on hemichannels but via multiple intermediate signaling steps that are adjoined by distinct signaling mechanisms activated by high [Ca(2+)](i) and acting to restrain cellular ATP loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elke De Vuyst
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Ghent University, Belgium
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28
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De Vuyst E, De Bock M, Decrock E, Van Moorhem M, Naus C, Mabilde C, Leybaert L. In situ bipolar electroporation for localized cell loading with reporter dyes and investigating gap junctional coupling. Biophys J 2008; 94:469-79. [PMID: 17872956 PMCID: PMC2157259 DOI: 10.1529/biophysj.107.109470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2007] [Accepted: 09/05/2007] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Electroporation is generally used to transfect cells in suspension, but the technique can also be applied to load a defined zone of adherent cells with substances that normally do not permeate the plasma membrane. In this case a pulsed high-frequency oscillating electric field is applied over a small two-wire electrode positioned close to the cells. We compared unipolar with bipolar electroporation pulse protocols and found that the latter were ideally suited to efficiently load a narrow longitudinal strip of cells in monolayer cultures. We further explored this property to determine whether electroporation loading was useful to investigate the extent of dye spread between cells coupled by gap junctions, using wild-type and stably transfected C6 glioma cells expressing connexin 32 or 43. Our investigations show that the spatial spread of electroporation-loaded 6-carboxyfluorescein, as quantified by the standard deviation of Gaussian dye spread or the spatial constant of exponential dye spread, was a reliable approach to investigate the degree of cell-cell coupling. The spread of reporter dye between coupled cells was significantly larger with electroporation loading than with scrape loading, a widely used method for dye-coupling studies. We conclude that electroporation loading and dye transfer is a robust technique to investigate gap-junctional coupling that combines minimal cell damage with accurate probing of the degree of cell-cell communication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elke De Vuyst
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium
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29
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Abstract
Glucose transport over the blood-brain barrier (BBB) is a nonrate-limiting step and has therefore received little attention as a possible adjustment point within the transport reaction cascade from blood glucose to brain cell glycolysis. Considerations of the normal working point of facilitated BBB glucose shuttling via the GLUT-1 protein indicate that the transport is working at about one-third of T(max) under basal conditions. Substitution of T(max) estimates indicates that the transport is then just enough to keep up with glucose consumption, maintaining the steady state. After brain activation, glucose transport has to be stimulated, and this can be accomplished by increasing the driving force or changing the T(max) and/or K(t) parameters of BBB transport. The first possibility involves a decrease of brain interstitial glucose with subsequent flow stimulation according to the law of mass action (LMA), whereas the second possibility involves signaling from activated neurons to the BBB, a regulation loop that we propose to be called "neurobarrier coupling" (NBC). Theoretical analysis of the LMA effect and comparison with data on glucose dynamics during brain activation suggest that this factor alone only covers about half of the stimulation necessary to bring glucose delivery into line with the elevated glucose consumption during activation. Adjusting glucose entry with demand thus probably involves both LMA and NBC effects, depending on the degree of brain activation. Further work is needed to demonstrate NBC effects following physiological brain activation in vivo and to identify the signals that lead to NBC in in vitro experiments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luc Leybaert
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.
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30
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De Vuyst E, Decrock E, De Bock M, Yamasaki H, Naus CC, Evans WH, Leybaert L. Connexin hemichannels and gap junction channels are differentially influenced by lipopolysaccharide and basic fibroblast growth factor. Mol Biol Cell 2006; 18:34-46. [PMID: 17079735 PMCID: PMC1751325 DOI: 10.1091/mbc.e06-03-0182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 156] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Gap junction (GJ) channels are formed by two hemichannels (connexons), each contributed by the cells taking part in this direct cell-cell communication conduit. Hemichannels that do not interact with their counterparts on neighboring cells feature as a release pathway for small paracrine messengers such as nucleotides, glutamate, and prostaglandins. Connexins are phosphorylated by various kinases, and we compared the effect of various kinase-activating stimuli on GJ channels and hemichannels. Using peptides identical to a short connexin (Cx) amino acid sequence to specifically block hemichannels, we found that protein kinase C, Src, and lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) inhibited GJs and hemichannel-mediated ATP release in Cx43-expressing C6 glioma cells (C6-Cx43). Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) inhibited GJs, but they stimulated ATP release via hemichannels in C6-Cx43. LPS and bFGF inhibited hemichannel-mediated ATP release in HeLa-Cx43 cells, but they stimulated it in HeLa-Cx43 with a truncated carboxy-terminal (CT) domain or in HeLa-Cx26, which has a very short CT. Hemichannel potentiation by LPS was inhibited by blockers of the arachidonic acid metabolism, and arachidonic acid had a potentiating effect like LPS and bFGF. We conclude that GJ channels and hemichannels display similar or oppositely directed responses to modulatory influences, depending on the balance between kinase activity and the activity of the arachidonic acid pathway. Distinctive hemichannel responses to pathological stimulation with LPS or bFGF may serve to optimize the cell response, directed at strictly controlling cellular ATP release, switching from direct GJ communication to indirect paracrine signaling, or maximizing cell-protective strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elke De Vuyst
- *Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Elke Decrock
- *Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Marijke De Bock
- *Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Hiroshi Yamasaki
- Department of Bioscience, School of Science and Technology, Kwansei Gakuin University, Gakuin, Sanda 669-13, Japan
| | - Christian C. Naus
- Department of Cellular and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada V6T 1Z3; and
| | - W. Howard Evans
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Immunology, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Cardiff CF14 4XN, United Kingdom
| | - Luc Leybaert
- *Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium
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31
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Pradier L, Carpentier N, Delalonde L, Clavel N, Bock MD, Buée L, Mercken L, Tocqué B, Czech C. Mapping the APP/presenilin (PS) binding domains: the hydrophilic N-terminus of PS2 is sufficient for interaction with APP and can displace APP/PS1 interaction. Neurobiol Dis 1999; 6:43-55. [PMID: 10078972 DOI: 10.1006/nbdi.1998.0212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Mutations in presenilin 1 and presenilin 2 (PS1 and PS2, respectively) genes cause the large majority of familial forms of early-onset Alzheimer's disease. The physical interaction between presenilins and APP has been recently described using coimmunoprecipitation. With a similar technique, we confirmed this interaction and have mapped the interaction domains on both PS2 and APP. Using several carboxy-terminal truncated forms of PS2, we demonstrated that the hydrophilic amino terminus of PS2 (residues 1 to 87, PS2NT) was sufficient for interaction with APP. Interestingly, only a construct with a leader peptide for secretion (SecPS2NT) and not its cytosolic counterpart was shown to interact with APP. For APP, we could demonstrate interaction of PS2 with the last 100 but not the last 45 amino acids of APP, including therefore the A beta region. Accordingly, SecPS2NT is capable of binding to A beta-immunoreactive species in conditioned medium. In addition, a second region in the extracellular domain of APP also interacted with PS2. Comparable results with PS1 indicate that the two presenilins share similar determinants of binding to APP. Confirming these results, SecPS2NT is able to inhibit PS1/APP interaction. Such a competition makes it unlikely that the PS/APP interaction results from nonspecific aggregation of PS in transfected cells. The physical interaction of presenilins with a region encompassing the A beta sequence of APP could be causally related to the misprocessing of APP and the production of A beta1-42.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Pradier
- Gene Medicine Department, Rhône-Poulenc Rorer, Vitry, France.
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32
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Abstract
During late May 1995, 50 adult captive endangered Wyoming toads (Bufo baxteri) were brought out of hibernation. Approximately 3 to 10 days after hibernation emergence, all toads were hormonally induced to breed, and paired. Each pair was placed in their own breeding tank. Four toads developed clinical signs of disease which included lethargy and multiple (4 to 12) small (2 mm) raised hyperemic nodules with white fuzzy caps on the ventral skin. The condition progressively worsened until death occurred, within 3 to 6 days. Mycotic dermatitis caused by Mucor sp. was diagnosed in the four toads through histology and isolation of the organism. This is the first case report of a Mucor sp. causing a fatal dermatitis in an amphibian without significant inflammatory response and without systemic involvement.
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Affiliation(s)
- S K Taylor
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Wyoming, Laramie 82070, USA.
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33
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Emile L, Mercken L, Apiou F, Pradier L, Bock MD, Menager J, Clot J, Doble A, Blanchard JC. Molecular cloning, functional expression, pharmacological characterization and chromosomal localization of the human metabotropic glutamate receptor type 3. Neuropharmacology 1996; 35:523-30. [PMID: 8887960 DOI: 10.1016/0028-3908(96)84622-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Glutamic acid is the major excitatory amino acid of the central nervous system which interacts with two receptor families, the ionotropic and metabotropic glutamate receptors. The metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluRs) are coupled to G proteins and can be divided into three subgroups based on their sequence homology, signal transduction pathway and pharmacology. In this study, we describe the cloning of the cDNA encoding the human metabotropic glutamate receptor type 3 (HmGluR3). It was obtained by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) with degenerate oligonucleotides corresponding to highly conserved sequences between rat mGluRs. The receptor shows 879 amino acids with 96% amino acid sequence identity with rat mGluR3. It is strongly expressed in fetal and adult whole brain, especially in caudate nucleus and corpus callosum. The gene was identified by fluorescence in situ hybridization on chromosome 7 band q22. Activation of the human mGluR3, permanently expressed in Baby Hamster Kidney (BHK) cells, by excitatory amino acid inhibits the forskolin-stimulated accumulation of intracellular cAMP. The rank order of potency is L-glutamic acid > or = (1S,3R)-1-aminocyclopentane-1,3-dicarboxylic acid (1S,3R)-ACPD) >> ibotenic acid > quisqualic acid. (RS)-alpha-methyl-4-carboxyphenylglycine [(RS)-MCPG, 1 mM] is without effect on inhibition of forskolin-induced cAMP accumulation by L-glutamic acid.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Emile
- Rhône-Poulenc Rorer SA, Centre de Recherche de Vitry-Alfortville, Vitry sur Seine, France
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34
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Pradier L, Habert-Ortoli E, Emile L, Le Guern J, Loquet I, Bock MD, Clot J, Mercken L, Fardin V, Garret C. Molecular determinants of the species selectivity of neurokinin type 1 receptor antagonists. Mol Pharmacol 1995; 47:314-21. [PMID: 7532784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Most nonpeptide neurokinin (NK)1 antagonists display a marked difference in affinity for rat versus human NK1 receptors. The molecular basis for the species selectivity of RP67580 and CP96,345 has been previously addressed [J. Biol. Chem. 267:25668-25671 (1992); J. Biol. Chem. 268:2319-2323 (1993)]. We are extending these previous results to additional NK1 antagonists, which are members of different chemical families. Included is a new perhydroisoindolol, RPR100893, which unlike its parent compound (RP67580) is human receptor selective. Chimeric rat/human NK1 receptors, as well as rat and human mutant NK1 receptors, were constructed and expressed in COS-1 cells, and affinities for substance P and the various antagonists were determined in binding studies. With human receptor-selective antagonists, the rat R290(S-->I) mutation was the most effective in increasing antagonist affinity (from 7- to 23-fold). Combination with the R116(L-->V) mutation led to an additional increase in affinity for trans-4-hydroxy-1-(1H-indol-3-ylcarbonyl)-L-prolyl-N- methyl-N-(phenylmethyl)-L-tyrosineamide (a derivative of FK888) and to nearly full human receptor affinity for RPR100893 and (+/-)-CP99,994. Based on the gains in affinities, these results confirm and extend the role of residues 116 and 290 of the NK1 receptor in the species selectivity of these three new human receptor-selective NK1 antagonists. In comparison, the affinity of RP67580, the least selective molecule, was most affected by changes at position 116, and combination with mutations at either position 97 (V-->E) or position 290 led to the human receptor phenotype. For the heterosteroid KAN610857, modifications of the rat receptor at positions 97 and 290, and to a lesser degree position 116, were the most effective in reducing affinity. Two double-mutants [R(97,290) and R(116,290)], although different from those identified for RP67580, also displayed human receptor-like affinity. Therefore, the molecular determinants of the species selectivity appear to be different, in part, between rat and human receptor-selective compounds, even between closely related chemical families.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Pradier
- Rhône-Poulenc Rorer SA, Centre de Recherche de Vitry-Alfortville, Vitry sur Seine, France
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35
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Pradier L, Ménager J, Le Guern J, Bock MD, Heuillet E, Fardin V, Garret C, Doble A, Mayaux JF. Septide: an agonist for the NK1 receptor acting at a site distinct from substance P. Mol Pharmacol 1994; 45:287-93. [PMID: 7509440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
The hexapeptide [pGlu6,Pro9]substance P (SP)6-11, septide, has been shown to be an agonist as potent as SP in eliciting smooth muscle contraction in several in vitro preparations, while being a poor competitor of labeled SP binding. These results, as well as other pharmacological data, have suggested the existence of either a specific septide receptor or a septide site on the neurokinin (NK)1 receptor distinct from that for SP. We have used rat recombinant NK1 receptor expressed in COS-1 cells to address this issue. Both functional (agonist-induced inositol phosphate accumulation) and radioligand binding studies were conducted on transiently transfected cells. SP and septide elicited similar maximal increases (4-6-fold) in inositol phosphate levels in transfected cells, with EC50 values of 0.05 +/- 0.02 nM for SP and 5 +/- 2 nM for septide. No additivity of the maximal responses to the two agonists was observed, and neither agonist evoked any response in sham-transfected cells. RP 67580 was a competitive inhibitor of SP responses, with an inhibition constant (KB) of 13 +/- 2 nM, in agreement with displacement studies of [3H]SP binding to membranes and intact transfected cells (Ki values of 10 +/- 4 nM, and 1.16 +/- 0.06 nM, respectively). In comparison, septide responses were inhibited by RP 67580 in an uncompetitive fashion, with an apparent KB* value of 1.5 +/- 0.2 nM. Septide was a weak competitor of [3H]SP binding, with dissociation constants (Ki) of 2.9 +/- 0.6 microM and 3.7 +/- 0.9 microM for membranes and intact transfected cells, respectively. Similarly, septide at concentrations up to 10 microM did not affect [3H]RP 67580 binding. In conclusion, we have demonstrated that septide is a potent functional agonist of the NK1 receptor but it seems to act at a specific subsite different from that for SP. Although not ruling out the existence of selective septide receptors in some tissues, these results could explain some of the discrepancies with regard to the pharmacological properties of septide. Furthermore, a specific septide site on the NK1 receptor could represent an original pharmacological target.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Pradier
- Rhône-Poulenc Rorer SA, CRVA, Vitry Sur Seine, France
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Fardin V, Foucault F, Bock MD, Jolly A, Flamand O, Clerc F, Garret C. Variations in affinities for the NK1 receptor: differences between the non-peptide substance P antagonists RP 67580 and CP-96,345 and the agonist septide. Regul Pept 1993; 46:300-3. [PMID: 7692521 DOI: 10.1016/0167-0115(93)90066-h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- V Fardin
- Biology Department, Rhone-Poulenc Rorer, Centre de Recherches de Vitry-Alfortville, Vitry sur Seine, France
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