Novel signaling mechanisms in the ovary during oocyte maturation and ovulation

During the peri-ovulatory period, the gonadotropin LH triggers major changes in both the somatic and germ cell compartments of the ovarian follicle. The oocyte completes the meiotic cell cycle to become a fertilizable egg, and dramatic changes in gene expression and secretion take place in the somatic compartment of the follicle in preparation for follicular rupture and oocyte release. The concerted changes are regulated by activation of intracellular signaling pathways as well as paracrine and autocrine regulatory loops. This review will provide a summary of the current knowledge of the molecular events triggered by LH focusing mostly on the signaling pathways required for oocyte maturation.

Role of phosphodiesterases in adult-onset pulmonary arterial hypertension

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is characterized by increased mean pulmonary artery pressure (mPAP) due to vasoconstriction and structural changes in the small pulmonary arteries (PAs); proliferation of pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells (PASMCs) contributes to the remodeling. The abnormal pathophysiology in the pulmonary vasculature relates to decreased cyclic nucleotide levels in PASMCs. Phosphodiesterases (PDEs) catalyze the hydrolysis of cAMP and cGMP, thereby PDE inhibitors are effective in vasodilating the PA and decreasing PASMC proliferation. Experimental studies support the use of PDE3, PDE5, and PDE1 inhibitors in PAH. PDE5 inhibitors such as sildenafil are clinically approved to treat different forms of PAH and lower mPAP, increase functional capacity, and decrease right ventricular hypertrophy, without decreasing systemic arterial pressure. New evidence suggests that the combination of PDE inhibitors with other therapies for PAH may be beneficial in treating the disease. Furthermore, inhibiting PDEs in the heart and the inflammatory cells that infiltrate the PA may offer new targets to reduce right ventricular hypertrophy and inhibit inflammation that is associated with and contributes to the development of PAH. This chapter summarizes the advances in the area and the future of PDEs in PAH.

Evidence for the potential influence of cyclic nucleotides on maintenance of or reactivation from latency of herpes simplex virus in trigeminal ganglionic neurons

Herpes simplex virus infections are epidemic throughout developed countries, and recurrent herpes simplex keratitis is the most common cause of corneal blindness in these countries, NIH (1973). No available antiviral agent is capable of eradicating the state of viral ganglionic latency, and hence no effective treatment currently exists for prevention of viral re-activation from latency, with resultant recurrent infectious viral clinical manifestations. Putative triggers of re-activation include stress, sunburn, menses, trauma, and fever. These 'triggers' seem to share at least one common characteristic: the potential ability to influence intracellular cyclic nucleotide levels through the action of such first order messengers as catacolamines (stress, trauma) and/or arachadonic acid metabolites (sunburn, fever, trauma, and menses). We exploited an in vitro model of HSV ganglionic latency, and developed a model of in vitro organ culture ganglionic viral reactivation from latency. We then examined the effect of a variety of agents on this model. We found that agents which have been shown to elevate cyclic AMP levels consistently produce increased viral shedding (compared to control, spontaneous reactivation rate) in our model of viral reactivation from latency. In contrast, agents which have been shown to depress c-AMP levels and/or to elevate c-GMP levels inhibit viral reactivation from latency in this in vitro model. We conclude that intracellular cyclic nucleotide levels may influence events which control herpes simplex genome transcription.

Cyclic nucleotide-regulated ion channels: spotlight on symmetry

In this issue of Structure, Chiu et al. (2007) report the 16 A EM structure of the prokaryotic cyclic nucleotide-regulated K(+) channel MloK1. This structure reveals that the channel is arranged as a four-fold symmetric tetramer.

Membrane currents and mechanisms of olfactory transduction

The term olfactory transduction refers to the mechanisms that transform chemical information into electrical signals. With the patch-clamp technique it is possible to record those signals and to infer something about the mechanism that produced them. The direct activation of a cation-permeable channel by cAMP is the final step in producing the odour-induced ionic current. Because it occupies a critical position in the transduction process, measurements of the ion channel's activity provide useful insights into the molecular processes underlying olfactory transduction. In addition to its activation by cAMP and cGMP, the channel is modulated by both extracellular and intracellular Ca2+ ions and by extracellular Mg2+ ions, all at physiological concentrations. These effects are probably important in promoting signal reliability. An unusual feature of this channel is its termination kinetics--it can remain active for hundreds of milliseconds after the agonist has been removed. This is likely to add to the integrating properties of the olfactory sensory neuron.

How does alcohol impair neuronal migration?

Maternal alcohol consumption during pregnancy can cause serious birth defects, of which fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) is the most devastating. Recognized by characteristic craniofacial abnormalities and growth deficiency, this condition produces severe alcohol-induced damage in the developing brain. FAS children experience ataxia; deficits in intellectual functioning; and difficulties in learning, memory, problem solving, and attention. Multiple aspects of central nervous system development can be affected by alcohol exposure, but the most striking abnormalities are neuronal and glial migration. Little is known about cellular mechanisms by which alcohol affects the migration of immature neurons. Recently, it has been found that Ca(2+) signaling and cyclic nucleotide signaling are the central targets of the action of alcohol in neuronal cell migration. Most importantly, the aberrant migration of immature neurons caused by alcohol exposure is significantly ameliorated by controlling the activity of these second-messenger pathways. In this Mini-Review, we first describe how alcohol exposure impairs the migration of cerebellar granule cells and then discuss the signaling mechanisms involved.

The role of cyclic nucleotides in axon guidance

During the formation of the nervous system, axonal growth cones navigate through the complex environment of the developing embryo to innervate their targets. Growth cones achieve this formidable feat by responding to attractive or repulsive guidance cues expressed at specific points along the trajectory of their growth, which impart the directional information required for accurate pathfinding. While much is known about guidance molecules and their receptors, many questions remain unanswered. Which signal transduction pathways are activated within the growth cone after encountering a guidance cue? How is this related to rearrangement of the growth cone cytoskeleton? Do different cues use different signal transduction pathways? This chapter will review some of the work that has addressed these fundamental questions, with a specific focus on the role of the cyclic nucleotides, cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) and cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP), in axon guidance.

Sperm chemotaxis in marine invertebrates--molecules and mechanisms

Sperm are attracted by chemical substances which are released by the egg. This process is called chemotaxis. Several molecules that are involved in chemotactic signaling of sperm from marine invertebrates are described and a model of the signaling pathway is presented. We discuss the motor response during chemotaxis and propose a model of the navigation strategy of sperm.

CNG and HCN channels: two peas, one pod

Cyclic nucleotide-activated ion channels play a fundamental role in a variety of physiological processes. By opening in response to intracellular cyclic nucleotides, they translate changes in concentrations of signaling molecules to changes in membrane potential. These channels belong to two families: the cyclic nucleotide-gated (CNG) channels and the hyperpolarization-activated cyclic nucleotide-modulated (HCN) channels. The two families exhibit high sequence similarity and belong to the superfamily of voltage-gated potassium channels. Whereas HCN channels are activated by voltage and CNG channels are virtually voltage independent, both channels are activated by cyclic nucleotide binding. Furthermore, the channels are thought to have similar channel structures, leading to similar mechanisms of activation by cyclic nucleotides. However, although these channels are structurally and behaviorally similar, they have evolved to perform distinct physiological functions. This review describes the physiological roles and biophysical behavior of CNG and HCN channels. We focus on how similarities in structure and activation mechanisms result in common biophysical models, allowing CNG and HCN channels to be viewed as a single genre.

Compartmentation of cyclic nucleotide signaling in the heart: the role of A-kinase anchoring proteins

The activation of the cyclic nucleotide protein kinase A (PKA) and PKG by their respective second messengers is responsible for the modulation of many cellular functions in the heart including cardiac hypertrophy, strength of contraction, and ion flux. However, several studies have revealed that a general increase in cyclic nucleotide concentration in the cell is not sufficient for the specific regulation of target proteins. These studies found that PKA and PKG must be colocalized with their targets to ensure spatial-temporal control of substrate phosphorylation. This compartmentation of cyclic nucleotide signaling is accomplished by tethering the protein kinases with their respective substrates through the association with scaffolding proteins. For cAMP signaling, A-kinase anchoring proteins (AKAPs) provide a molecular mechanism for cAMP compartmentation, allowing for the precise control of PKA-mediated phosphorylation events. (cAMP, PKA, AKAP, PKG).

A role for cyclic nucleotide monophosphates in synaptic modulation by a crayfish neuropeptide

DF2 (DRNFLRFamide), a FMRFamide-like peptide, has been shown to increase the amount of transmitter released at crayfish neuromuscular junctions. Here, we examined a possible role for the cyclic nucleotide monophosphates, cAMP and cGMP, in DF2's effects on synaptic transmission. The effects of DF2 on synaptic transmission were monitored by recording excitatory postsynaptic potentials (EPSPs) in the deep abdominal extensor muscles of the crayfish, Procambarus clarkii. A number of activators and inhibitors were used to determine whether or not cAMP, cGMP, protein kinase A (PKA) and protein kinase G (PKG) mediate the effect of this neuropeptide. Phosphodiesterase inhibitors, known to inhibit the breakdown of cAMP (IBMX) and/or cGMP (mdBAMQ), potentiate the effect of DF2 on synaptic transmission. Activators of PKA (Sp-cAMPS) and PKG (8-pCPT-cGMP) increase EPSP amplitude, mimicking the effects of DF2. Inhibitors of PKA (Rp-cAMPS) and PKG (Rp-8-pCPT-cGMPS) each block a portion of the response to the peptide, and when applied together these two inhibitors completely block the response. Taken together, these results indicate that cyclic nucleotides and cyclic nucleotide-dependent protein kinases are necessary components of the pathway underlying modulation by this neuropeptide.

Cyclic nucleotides induce long-term augmentation of glutamate-activated chloride current in molluscan neurons

1. Literature data indicate that serotonin induces the long-term potentiation of glutamate (Glu) response in molluscan neurons. The aim of present work was to elucidate whether cyclic nucleotides can cause the same effect. 2. Experiments were carried out on isolated neurons of the edible snail (Helix pomatia) using a two-microelectrode voltage-clamp method. 3. In the majority of the cells examined, the application of Glu elicited a Cl- -current. The reversal potential (Er) of this current lied between -35 and -55 mV in different cells. 4. Picrotoxin, a blocker of Cl- -channels, suppressed this current equally on both sides of Er. Furosemide, an antagonist of both Cl- -channels and the Na+/K+/Cl- -cotransporter, had a dual effect on Glu-response: decrease in conductance, and shift of Er to negative potentials. 5. A short-term (2 min) cell treatment with 8-Br-cAMP or 8-Br-cGMP caused long-term (up to 30 min) change in Glu-response. At a holding potential of -60 mV, which was close to the resting level, an increase in Glu-activated inward current was observed. This potentiation seems to be related to the right shift of Er of Glu-activated Cl- -current rather than to the increase in conductance of Cl- -channels. The blocking effect of picrotoxin rested after 8-Br-cAMP treatment. 6. The change in the Cl- -homeostasis as a possible mechanism for the observed effect of cyclic nucleotides is discussed.

Cyclic nucleotide signaling in cavernous smooth muscle

INTRODUCTION

Penile erection depends on cavernous smooth muscle relaxation that is principally regulated by cyclic nucleotide signaling. It is hoped that a comprehensive review of publications relevant to this subject will be helpful to both scientists and clinicians who are interested in the sciences of erectile function/dysfunction. AIMS. To review the roles of extracellular signaling molecules, their receptors, intracellular effectors, and phosphodiesterases in cyclic nucleotide signaling that leads to cavernous smooth muscle relaxation. The involvement of these molecules in the development of erectile dysfunction and the possibility of using them as therapeutic agents or targets are also discussed.

METHODS

Entrez, the search engine for life sciences, was used to search for publications relevant to the topics of this review. Keywords used in the searches included vascular, cavernous, penis, smooth muscle, signaling molecules (adenosine, nitric oxide, etc.), and key elements in the cyclic nucleotide signaling pathways (cAMP, cGMP, cyclases, PKG, PKA, etc.). Articles that are dedicated to the study of erectile function/dysfunction were prioritized for citation.

RESULTS

More than 1,000 articles were identified, many of which are studies of the vascular system and are therefore reviewed but not cited. Studies on erectile function have identified both cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) and cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) signaling pathways in cavernous smooth muscle. Many signaling molecules of these two pathways have been shown capable of inducing erection when administered intracavernously. However, for sexually induced erection, nitric oxide (NO) is the responsible signaling molecule and it passes on the signal through soluble guanyl cyclase (sGC), cGMP, and protein kinase G (PKG).

CONCLUSIONS

The NO/sGC/cGMP/PKG pathway is principally responsible for sexually stimulated erection. Detumescence is mainly carried out by the degradation of cGMP by phosphodiesterase 5. Both cAMP and cGMP signaling pathways are susceptible to genetic and biochemical alterations in association with erectile dysfunction. Several key elements along these pathways are potential therapeutic targets.

Hyperpolarization-activated cyclic nucleotide-gated cation channels regulate auditory coincidence detection in nucleus laminaris of the chick

Coincidence detection of bilateral acoustic signals in nucleus laminaris (NL) is the first step in azimuthal sound source localization in birds. Here, we demonstrate graded expression of hyperpolarization-activated cyclic nucleotide-gated (HCN) cation channels along the tonotopic axis of NL and its role in the regulation of coincidence detection. Expression of HCN1 and HCN2, but not HCN3 or HCN4, was detected in NL. Based on measurement of both subtype mRNA and protein, HCN1 varied along the tonotopic axis and was minimal in high-characteristic frequency (CF) neurons. In contrast, HCN2 was evenly distributed. The resting conductance was larger and the steady-state activation curve of Ih was more positive in neurons of middle to low CF than those of high CF, consistent with the predominance of HCN1 channels in these neurons. Application of 8-Br-cAMP or noradrenaline generated a depolarizing shift of the Ih voltage activation curve. This shift was larger in neurons of high CF than in those of middle CF. The shift in the activation voltage of Ih depolarized the resting membrane, accelerated the EPSP time course, and significantly improved the coincidence detection in neurons of high CF, suggesting that Ih may improve the localization of sound sources.

Model of calcium oscillations due to negative feedback in olfactory cilia

We present a mathematical model for calcium oscillations in the cilia of olfactory sensory neurons. The underlying mechanism is based on direct negative regulation of cyclic nucleotide-gated channels by calcium/calmodulin and does not require any autocatalysis such as calcium-induced calcium release. The model is in quantitative agreement with available experimental data, both with respect to oscillations and to fast adaptation. We give predictions for the ranges of parameters in which oscillations should be observable. Relevance of the model to calcium oscillations in other systems is discussed.

[Signal transduction, pillar of the neurobiological integration of memory. An alternative view to the cholinergic hypothesis]

Neurophysiological, biochemical and molecular processes described in the integration of memory are closely related with neurotransmitters such as glutamate and serotonin (SHT) and with the function of calcium and potassium ion channels more than with cholinergic activity. Infact, glutamate and 5-HT receptors are closely related with Long-Term potentiation (L TP) processes, the mechanism by which memory is preserved throughout time. That is, the activation of the 5-HTI receptor triggers a transduction signal that after influencing nuclear cell activity, provokes several presynaptic changes, which leads to the displacement of magnesium from the postsynaptic area depolarizing the neuron and leading to the activation of N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors (NMDA). As a whole, this process contributes to the support and perpetuation of LTP, which consists of the following processes: LTPI that depends on protein kinase activity; LTP2 linked to translation of genes; and LTP3 closely related to genes transcription. On the opposite side but in perfect balance, we find the mechanism of Long-Term depression (LTD), which is triggered instead when the Ca+ +flow decreases in the presynaptic neuron activating the inhibitor-1 enzyme that promotes the dephosphorylation of a calmodulin-dependent protein kinasell and as a result, the inhibition of autophosphorylation and consequently of LTP too. Despite the widespread dissemination of the cholinergic hypothesis in Alzheimer's disease, memory build up rather than involving acetylcholine essentially depends on the participation of other neurotransmitters such as 5-HT and glutamate, which have not been adequately considered in the treatment of this disease. However, beyond neurotransmission, it is the cellular mechanism of autophosphorylation of several protein kinases, the process susceptible of being activated or controlled by the action of distinct substances. In such a case, it would be possible to exert some influence on gene expression improving perhaps, some of the physiopathological deficits that characterize memory disruption.

Phosphodiesterase inhibitors in female sexual dysfunction

Based on the increasing knowledge on both the physiology of penile erection and the pathophysiology of erectile dysfunction, selective phosphodiesterase (PDE) inhibitors have been successfully introduced in the oral treatment of male erectile dysfunction. Because of their central role in smooth muscle tone regulation, PDEs remain an attractive target for drug development in urology. Since the distribution and functional significance of PDE isoenzymes vary in different tissues, selective inhibitors of the isoenzymes have the potential to exert at least partially specific effects on the target tissue. Currently, PDE inhibitors are under investigation with potential uses in urinary stone disease, overactive bladder and the so-called benign prostatic syndrome. The convincing clinical data on the use of the orally active PDE5 inhibitors sildenafil (VIAGRA), vardenafil (LEVITRA) and tadalafil (CIALIS) in the treatment of erectile dysfunction are accompanied by boosting research activities on intracellular signal transduction and PDE characterisation in female genital tissues with the aid of immunohistochemistry and immunocytochemistry and molecular biology. The expression of various PDE isoforms in the human clitoris, vagina and labia minora was shown by means of immunohistochemistry and RT-PCR analyses and it was concluded from functional studies that an increase in cGMP or cAMP might be involved in the regulation of female genital blood flow and the control of genital non-vascular smooth muscle. As a consequence, the efficacy and safety of the PDE5 inhibitor sildenafil in the treatment of symptoms of female sexual dysfunction (FSD), including female sexual arousal disorders (FSAD), have been evaluated. Although the experiences from these early clinical studies have so far not been conclusive, they suggest that, after appropriate evaluation of patients, inhibition of PDE5 might be of benefit for selected individuals with FSAD. Such research efforts will possibly allow the identification of efficacious and diagnostic tools for erectile dysfunction and of even more selective drugs in its therapy.

Calcium sensitization as a pharmacological target in vascular smooth-muscle regulation

Numerous diseases have been associated with alteration(s) in smooth-muscle cell tone (ie, heightened contraction and/or diminished relaxation), including vascular disorders such as hypertension, cerebral vasospasm, coronary vasospasm and erectile dysfunction. Given the numerous steps that occur between receptor activation, signal transduction and cellular activation in vascular smooth muscle, it is not surprising that the etiology of common cardiovascular diseases/disorders is multifactorial. Nonetheless, this review will highlight the potential importance of the relationship between intracellular calcium levels and force generation, referred to as calcium sensitization, to these disease processes. As such, the complexities of the overlapping biochemical systems/pathways that govern calcium sensitization in vascular myocytes are reviewed, and the possibility that alterations in calcium sensitization may provide a common link among distinct vascular disorders is explored. A corollary of this supposition is that improved knowledge and understanding of the intrinsically complex regulation of calcium sensitization will provide novel opportunities for improved therapy of vascular disease.

Differential signaling in presynaptic neurotransmitter release

Neuronal communication is tightly regulated by presynaptic signaling, thereby temporarily and locally secreting one or more transmitters in order to exert propagation or modulation of network activity. In the last 2 decades our insight into the molecular regulation of presynaptic transmitter vesicle traffic and fusion has exponentionally grown due to the identification of specific functional interactions between presynaptic proteins involved in these processes. In addition, a plethora of extracellular and intracellular messengers regulate neurotransmitter release, occasionally leading to short- or long-term adaptations of the synapse to altered environmental signals. Important in this respect is the ability of various nerve terminals to diverge their output by differentiation in secretion of co-localized transmitters. This divergence in presynaptic signaling may converge in the postsynaptic target neuron or spread to neighbouring cells. In this review differential presynaptic signaling mechanisms will be related to their potential divergent roles in transmitter release.

Molecular recognition of cyclic-nucleotides and current sensors for their detection

This work briefly describes available sensors for cAMP and cGMP. Many sensors are based on derivatization of naturally occurring products such as immunoglobulins, protein kinases, etc. Only a few published works deal with chemosensors, which are built up by "total" chemical synthesis. This field stays opened for combinatorial chemist. The best sensors are protein kinases genetically modified with mutants of green fluorescent protein, which allow screening of entire cell cultures.

Cyclic nucleotide signaling mediates an odorant-suppressible chloride conductance in lobster olfactory receptor neurons

We have previously shown that lobster olfactory receptor neurons (ORNs) express an odorant-suppressible Cl(-) conductance that modulates the output of the cells. Here, we develop a more complete pharmacological profile of this conductance, showing it is blockable by the Cl(-) channel blockers DIDS, 9-AC and flufenamic acid, but not by niflumic acid. We then show that a conductance with this pharmacological profile is mediated by cyclic nucleotide signaling. These findings further our understanding of the cellular mechanisms through which odorants can modulate the output of lobster ORNs.

Control of the ciliary beat by cyclic nucleotides in intact cortical sheets from Paramecium

The locomotor behavior of Paramecium depends on the ciliary beat direction and beat frequency. Changes in the ciliary beat are controlled by a signal transduction mechanism that follows changes in the membrane potential. These events take place in cilia covered with a ciliary membrane. To determine the effects of second messengers in the cilia, cortical sheets were used with intact ciliary membrane as a half-closed system in which each cilium is covered with a ciliary membrane with an opening to the cell body. Cyclic nucleotides and their derivatives applied from an opening to the cell body affected the ciliary beat. cAMP and 8-Br-cAMP increased the beat frequency and the efficiency of propulsion and acted antagonistically to the action of Ca(2+). cGMP and 8-Br-cGMP increased the efficiency of propulsion accompanying clear metachronal waves but decreased the beat frequency. These results indicate that the cyclic nucleotides affect target proteins in the ciliary axonemes surrounded by the ciliary membrane without a membrane potential and increase the efficiency of propulsion of the ciliary beat. In vitro phosphorylation of isolated ciliary axonemes in the presence of cyclic nucleotides and their derivatives revealed that the action of cAMP was correlated with the phosphorylation of 29-kDa and 65-kDa proteins and that the action of cGMP was correlated with the phosphorylation of a 42-kDa protein.

Motility of a biflagellate sperm: waveform analysis and cyclic nucleotide activation

The sperm of the freshwater clam Corbicula fluminea are unusual in that they have two flagella, both of which are capable of beating. When Corbicula sperm are removed from the gonad and placed into freshwater, most remain immotile. Video microscopy was used to assess signaling molecules capable of activating Corbicula sperm motility. Experiments using the cAMP analogs dbcAMP or 8-Br-cAMP show that elevating cAMP activates flagellar motility. Treatments with 8-Br-cGMP activated motility in similar numbers of sperm. Treatments with the selective cAMP-dependent protein kinase (PKA) inhibitor H-89 block activation by 8-Br-cAMP but not by 8-Br-cGMP. Similar treatments with the cGMP-dependent protein kinase (PKG) inhibitor Rp-8-pCPT-cGMPS block activation by 8-Br-cGMP but not by 8-Br-cAMP. These results suggest that cAMP and cGMP each work through their specific kinase to activate flagellar motility. Analysis of spontaneously activated freely swimming sperm shows that the two flagella beat with different parameters. The A flagellum beats with a shorter wavelength and a higher frequency than the B flagellum. The observed differences in flagellar waveform indicate that the flagella are differentially controlled.

Sertoli-Sertoli and Sertoli-germ cell interactions and their significance in germ cell movement in the seminiferous epithelium during spermatogenesis

Spermatogenesis is the process by which a single spermatogonium develops into 256 spermatozoa, one of which will fertilize the ovum. Since the 1950s when the stages of the epithelial cycle were first described, reproductive biologists have been in pursuit of one question: How can a spermatogonium traverse the epithelium, while at the same time differentiating into elongate spermatids that remain attached to the Sertoli cell throughout their development? Although it was generally agreed upon that junction restructuring was involved, at that time the types of junctions present in the testis were not even discerned. Today, it is known that tight, anchoring, and gap junctions are found in the testis. The testis also has two unique anchoring junction types, the ectoplasmic specialization and tubulobulbar complex. However, attention has recently shifted on identifying the regulatory molecules that "open" and "close" junctions, because this information will be useful in elucidating the mechanism of germ cell movement. For instance, cytokines have been shown to induce Sertoli cell tight junction disassembly by shutting down the production of tight junction proteins. Other factors such as proteases, protease inhibitors, GTPases, kinases, and phosphatases also come into play. In this review, we focus on this cellular phenomenon, recapping recent developments in the field.

Cyclic nucleotides

The natural occurrence of cyclic nucleotides in higher plants, formerly a topic of fierce debate, is now established, as is the presence of nucleotidyl cyclases and cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterases capable of their synthesis and breakdown. Here we describe the significant properties of cyclic nucleotides, also outlining their second messenger functions and the history of plant cyclic nucleotide research over its first three decades. Findings of the last five years are detailed within the context of the functional role of cyclic nucleotides in higher plants, with particular emphasis upon nucleotidyl cyclases and cyclic nucleotide-responsive protein kinases, -binding proteins and -gated ion channels, with future objectives and strategies discussed.

Cyclic nucleotide-gated ion channels

Cyclic nucleotide-gated (CNG) ion channels were first discovered in rod photoreceptors, where they are responsible for the primary electrical signal of the photoreceptor in response to light. CNG channels are highly specialized membrane proteins that open an ion-permeable pore across the membrane in response to the direct binding of intracellular cyclic nucleotides. CNG channels have been identified in a number of other tissues, including the brain, where their roles are only beginning to be appreciated. Recently, significant progress has been made in understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying their functional specializations. From these studies, a picture is beginning to emerge for how the binding of cyclic nucleotide is transduced into the opening of the pore and how this allosteric transition is modulated by various physiological effectors.

Disruption of an intersubunit interaction underlies Ca2+-calmodulin modulation of cyclic nucleotide-gated channels

Cyclic nucleotide-gated channels are key molecular elements for olfactory transduction. Olfactory adaptation caused by repeated exposure to an odorant has been proposed to be mediated by the binding of Ca2+-calmodulin to the NH2-terminal domain of the channel, breaking its interaction with the COOH-terminal domain and downregulating the channel. We used a fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) approach to study the structural aspects of this domain-domain interaction under physiological conditions in real time. Fluorescent proteins enhanced cyan fluorescent protein and enhanced yellow fluorescent protein were genetically attached at sites adjacent to the NH2- and COOH-terminal interacting domains, respectively, allowing direct observation of molecular rearrangements in intact channels. FRET signals caused by the specific interdomain interaction were observed in both intact cells and excised patches. Comparison of the effective FRET efficiencies demonstrated that the interaction occurs specifically between subunits but not within the same subunit. Binding of Ca2+-calmodulin caused a reversible decrease in FRET with the same time course as channel downregulation. These results suggest that a separation or reorientation of the interacting domains between subunits by Ca2+-calmodulin leads to channel downregulation. The quaternary arrangement presents a structural framework for understanding the molecular mechanism of olfactory adaptation.

Phosphorylation of the heat shock-related protein, HSP20, mediates cyclic nucleotide-dependent relaxation

Cyclic nucleotide-dependent relaxation of vascular smooth muscle is associated with increases in the phosphorylation of the small heat shock-related protein, HSP20. To determine whether phosphorylated HSP20 directly mediates relaxation, we used gene transfection and protein transduction of HSP20 analogues. Rat mesangial cells were transfected with constructs containing wild-type HSP20-enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP), phosphorylation site mutated HSP20 (S16A-HSP20-EGFP), or EGFP alone. Contractile properties were determined on a silicone polymer substrata. In the presence of serum, EGFP-vector transfected control cells and S16A-HSP20 transfected cells formed wrinkles on the polymer (contracted). Activation of cyclic nucleotide signaling pathways in the EGFP-vector transfected control cells led to a time-dependent decrease in the wrinkles (relaxation). The S16A-HSP20 transfected cells were refractory to cyclic nucleotide-dependent relaxation. Cells overexpressing the wild-type HSP20 did not form wrinkles on the polymer in response to serum (refractory to contraction). Treatment of precontracted strips of intact bovine carotid artery smooth muscle with synthetic peptides containing HIV-trans-activating transcriptional activator and a phosphopeptide motif of HSP20 led to dose-dependent relaxation. These data provide evidence that phosphorylated HSP20 has a direct role in smooth muscle relaxation and that small phosphopeptide motifs of HSP20 can mimic the effects of the entire molecule.

Regulation of intracellular cyclic AMP in skeletal muscle cells involves the efflux of cyclic nucleotide to the extracellular compartment

(1) This report analyses the intracellular and extracellular accumulation of cyclic AMP in primary rat skeletal muscle cultures, after direct and receptor-dependent stimulation of adenylyl cyclase (AC). (2) Isoprenaline, calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) and forskolin induced a transient increase in the intracellular cyclic AMP that peaked 5 min after onset stimulation. (3) Under stimulation with isoprenaline or CGRP, the intracellular cyclic AMP initial rise was followed by an exponential decline, reaching 46 and 52% of peak levels in 10 min, respectively. (4) Conversely, the forskolin-dependent accumulation of intracellular cyclic AMP decreased slowly and linearly, reaching 49% of the peak level in 30 min. (5) The loss of intracellular cyclic AMP from peak levels, induced by direct or receptor-induced activation of AC, was followed by an increase in the extracellular cyclic AMP. (6) This effect was independent on PDEs, since it was obtained in the presence of 3-isobutyl-1-methylxanthine (IBMX). (7) Besides, in isoprenaline treated cells, the beta-adrenoceptor antagonist propranolol reduced both intra- and extracellular accumulation of cyclic AMP, whereas the organic anion transporter inhibitor probenecid reduced exclusively the extracellular accumulation. (8) Together our data show that direct or receptor-dependent activation of skeletal muscle AC results in a transient increase in the intracellular cyclic AMP, despite the continuous presence of the stimulus. The temporal declining of intracellular cyclic AMP was not dependent on the cyclic AMP breakdown but associated to the efflux of cyclic nucleotide to the extracellular compartment, by an active transport since it was prevented by probenecid.

GAF domains: cyclic nucleotides come full circle

Cyclic nucleotides are ubiquitous signaling molecules that are present in life forms ranging from bacteria to yeast to humans. In higher eukaryotes, conserved molecular machinery processes signals through both cyclic adenosine monophosphate (AMP) and cyclic guanosine monophosphate (GMP). Hurley describes how one widespread cyclic nucleotide recognition module, the GAF (cyclic GMP, adenylyl cyclase, FhlA) domain, formerly thought to bind only cyclic GMP, has now been found to bind cyclic AMP as well. Recent structural analysis of a cyclic GMP-binding GAF domain shows how conserved elements among the cyclic nucleotide-binding subgroup of GAF domains recognize the common chemical moieties in the two compounds.

PDE3 cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterases and the compartmentation of cyclic nucleotide-mediated signalling in cardiac myocytes

PDE3 cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterase inhibitors raise cAMP and cGMP content in cardiac and vascular myocytes. Their administration to patients with dilated cardiomyopathy leads to improvements in hemodynamic parameters in the short term but reduces survival with chronic administration. The reasons for this 'biphasic' response have not been elucidated, but it is likely that beneficial and harmful effects of PDE3 inhibition reflect the phosphorylation of different substrates of cAMP- and cGMP-dependent protein kinases (PK-A and PK-G). It is now apparent that cardiac and vascular myocytes contain several isoforms of PDE3 that differ in their intracellular distribution and thus regulate cAMP and cGMP levels in different subcellular compartments. These isoforms also differ in their regulation by extracellular signals that may be important in the pathophysiology of dilated cardiomyopathy. An intriguing possibility is that the beneficial and harmful effects of PDE3 inhibition may be attributable to the inhibition of different isoforms of these enzymes.

Movement of the C-helix during the gating of cyclic nucleotide-gated channels

Movements within the cyclic nucleotide-binding domain of cyclic nucleotide-gated channels are thought to underlie the initial phase of channel gating (Tibbs, G. R., D. T. Liu, B. G. Leypold, and S. A. Siegelbaum. 1998. J. Biol. Chem. 273:4497-4505; Zong, X., H. Zucker, F. Hofmann, and M. Biel. 1998. EMBO J. 17:353-362; Matulef, K., G. E. Flynn, and W. N. Zagotta. 1999. Neuron. 24:443-452; Paoletti, P., E. C. Young, and S. A. Siegelbaum. 1999. J. Gen. Physiol. 113:17-33; Johnson, J. P., and W. N. Zagotta. 2001. Nature. 412:917-921). To investigate these movements, cysteine mutation was performed on each of the 28 residues (Leu-583 to Asn-610), which span the agonist-binding domain of the alpha-subunit of the bovine rod cyclic nucleotide-gated channel. The effects of Cd(2+) ions, 2-trimethylammonioethylmethane thiosulfonate (MTSET) and copper phenanthroline (CuP) on channel activity were examined, in excised inside-out patches in the presence and in the absence of a saturating concentration of cGMP. The application of 100 microM Cd(2+) in the presence of saturating concentration of cGMP caused an irreversible and almost complete reduction of the current in mutant channels E594C, I600C, and L601C. In the absence of cGMP, the presence of 100 microM Cd(2+) caused a strong current reduction in all cysteine mutants from Asp-588 to Leu-607, with the exception of mutant channels A589C, M592C, M602C, K603C, and L606C. The selective effect of Cd(2+) ions was very similar to that observed when adding the oxidizing agent CuP to the bath medium, except for mutant channel G597C, where CuP caused a stronger current decrease (67 +/- 7%) than Cd(2+) (23 +/- 4%). In the absence of cGMP, MTSET caused a reduction of the current by >40% in mutant channels L607C, L601C, I600C, G597C, and E594C, whereas in the presence of cGMP only mutant channel L601C was affected. The application of MTSET protected many mutant channels from the effects of Cd(2+) and CuP. These results suggest that, when CNG channels are in the open state, residues from Asp-588 to Leu-607 are in an alpha-helical structure, homologous to the C-helix of the catabolite gene activator protein (Weber, I. T., and T. A. Steitz. 1987. J. Mol. Biol. 198:311-326). Furthermore, residues Glu-594, Gly-597, Ile-600, and Leu-601 of these helices belonging to two different subunits must be in close proximity. In the closed state the C-helices are in a different configuration and undergo significant fluctuations.

From funny current to HCN channels: 20 years of excitation

The "funny" (pacemaker) current has unusual characteristics, including activation on hyperpolarization, permeability to K(+) and Na(+), modulation by internal cAMP, and a tiny, single-channel conductance. In cardiac cells and neurons, pacemaker channels control repetitive activity and excitability. The recent cloning of HCN subunits provides new insight into the molecular basis for the funny channel properties.

Plants and sodium ions: keeping company with the enemy

Plants face a dilemma about sodium metabolism. Uptake of ubiquitous sodium ions is desirable as a way to build osmotic potential, absorb water and sustain turgor, but excess sodium ions may be toxic. Information from a number of plant species about the proteins involved in sodium-ion uptake helps to explain how plants manage to take in just the right amount.

Role of cyclic nucleotides in vasodilations of the rat thoracic aorta induced by adenosine analogues

Although adenosine analogues such as 5'-N-ethylcarboxamidoadenosine (NECA) relax the rat thoracic aorta in a partially endothelium-dependent manner via adenosine A(2A) receptors, others such as N(6)-R-phenylisopropyladenosine (R-PIA) act via an endothelium-independent, antagonist-insensitive mechanism. The role of cyclic nucleotides in these relaxations was investigated in isolated aortic rings using inhibitors of adenylate and guanylate cyclases as well as subtype-selective phosphodiesterase inhibitors. The adenylate cyclase inhibitor 9-(tetrahydro-2-furanyl)-9H-purin-6-amine (SQ 22536; 100 microM) significantly inhibited responses to NECA, but not responses to R-PIA. The type IV (cyclic AMP-selective) phosphodiesterase inhibitor 4-[(3-butoxy-4-methoxyphenyl)methyl]-2-imidazolidinone (RO 20-1724; 30 microM) significantly enhanced responses to NECA and to a lesser extent those to R-PIA. The guanylate cyclase inhibitor 1H-[1,2,4]oxadiazolo[4,3a]quinoxalin-1-one (ODQ; 100 microM) significantly inhibited responses to NECA and acetylcholine but not responses to R-PIA. The selective phosphodiesterase V (cyclic GMP-selective) inhibitors, zaprinast (10 microM) and 4-[[3',4'-(methylenedioxy)benzyl]amino]-6-methoxyquinazoline (MMQ; 1 microM), had no significant effect on responses to either NECA or R-PIA, but enhanced responses to acetylcholine. These results are consistent with the effects of NECA being via activation of endothelial receptors to release NO which stimulates guanylate cyclase, as well as smooth muscle receptors coupled to stimulation of adenylate cyclase. The lack of effect of zaprinast and MMQ on responses to NECA are likely to be due to simultaneous activation of both adenylate and guanylate cyclases in the smooth muscle, as cyclic AMP reduces the sensitivity of phosphodiesterase V to inhibitors. These results also suggest that the effects of R-PIA are via neither of these mechanisms.

Responses to prolonged odour stimulation in frog olfactory receptor cells

1. The suction pipette technique was used to record receptor current and spiking responses from isolated frog olfactory receptor cells during prolonged odour stimuli. 2. The majority (70 %) of cells displayed 'oscillatory' responses, consisting of repeated bursts of spikes accompanied by regular increases in receptor current. The period of this oscillation varied from 3.5 to 12 s in different cells. The remaining cells responded either with a 'transient' burst of spikes at the onset of stimulation (10 %), or by 'sustained' firing throughout the odour stimulus (20 %). 3. In cells with oscillatory responses, the Ca(2+)-activated Cl(-) channel blocker niflumic acid prolonged the period of oscillation only slightly, despite a 3.8-fold decrease in the receptor current. A 3-fold reduction in the external Cl(-) concentration nearly doubled the receptor current, but had little effect on the oscillation period. These results imply that the majority of the receptor current underlying these oscillatory responses is carried by the Ca(2+)-activated Cl(-) conductance, suggesting that the intracellular Ca(2+) concentration oscillates also. 4. In cells with oscillatory responses, the period of oscillation was prolonged 1.5-fold when stimulated in a low-Na(+) solution designed to incapacitate Na(+)-Ca(2+) exchange, irrespective of whether Na(+) was replaced by permeant Li(+) or impermeant choline. The dependence of the oscillation period upon external Na(+) suggests that it may be governed by the dynamics of Ca(2+) extrusion via Na(+)-Ca(2+) exchange. 5. Exposure to the membrane-permeable cyclic nucleotide analogue CPT-cAMP evoked a sustained rather than an oscillatory response even in cells with oscillatory responses to odour. The inability of CPT-cAMP to evoke an oscillatory response suggests that the cAMP concentration is likely to oscillate also. 6. Perforated-patch recordings revealed that oscillatory responses could only be evoked when the membrane potential was free to change, but not when it was clamped near the resting potential. Since substantial changes in Ca(2+)-activated Cl(-) current, and hence odour-induced depolarisation, had little effect upon the period of oscillation, changes in membrane potential are suggested to play only a permissive role in these oscillatory responses. 7. These results are interpreted in terms of the coupled oscillation of Ca(2+) and cyclic nucleotide concentrations within the olfactory cilia during prolonged odour stimulation.

Identification and cDNA cloning of a novel RNA-binding protein that interacts with the cyclic nucleotide-responsive sequence in the Type-1 plasminogen activator inhibitor mRNA

Incubation of HTC rat hepatoma cells with 8-bromo-cAMP results in a 3-fold increase in the rate of degradation of type-1 plasminogen activator inhibitor (PAI-1) mRNA. We have reported previously that the 3'-most 134 nt of the PAI-1 mRNA is able to confer cyclic nucleotide regulation of message stability onto a heterologous transcript. R-EMSA and UV cross-linking experiments have shown that this 134 nt cyclic nucleotide-responsive sequence (CRS) binds HTC cell cytoplasmic proteins ranging in size from 38 to 76 kDa. Mutations in the A-rich region of the CRS both eliminate cyclic nucleotide regulation of mRNA decay and abolish RN-protein complex formation, suggesting that these RNA-binding proteins may be important regulators of mRNA stability. By sequential R-EMSA and SDS-PAGE we have purified a protein from HTC cell polysomes that binds to the PAI-1 CRS. N-terminal sequence analysis and a search of protein data bases revealed identity with two human sequences of unknown function. We have expressed one of these sequences in E. coli and confirmed that the recombinant protein interacts specifically with the PAI-1 CRS. Mutation of the A-rich portion of the PAI-1 CRS reduces binding by the recombinant PAI-1 RNA-binding protein. The amino acid sequence of this protein includes an RGG box and two arginine-rich regions, but does not include other recognizable RNA binding motifs. Detailed analyses of nucleic acid and protein data bases demonstrate that blocks of this sequence are highly conserved in a number of metazoans, including Arabidopsis, Drosophila, birds, and mammals. Thus, we have described a novel RNA-binding protein that identifies a family of proteins with a previously undefined sequence motif. Our results suggest that this protein, PAI-RBP1, may play a role in regulation of mRNA stability.

Molecular pathways of cyclic nucleotide-induced inhibition of arterial smooth muscle cell proliferation

Cyclic adenosine 3',5'-monophosphate (cAMP) and cyclic guanosine 3',5'-monophosphate (cGMP) are second messengers involved in the intracellular signal transduction of a wide variety of extracellular stimuli. These signals regulate many biological processes including cell proliferation, differentiation, migration, and apoptosis. Recently, significant progress has been achieved in the molecular basis underlying cyclic nucleotide regulation of cell proliferation. This review summarizes our knowledge of the signaling pathways regulated by cyclic nucleotides in arterial smooth muscle cells.

Direct suppression by odorants of cyclic nucleotide-gated currents in the newt photoreceptors

Odorants are known to suppress the cyclic nucleotide-gated (CNG) current in olfactory receptor cells. It is unclear, however, whether odorants suppress the olfactory CNG current directly or whether they suppress the current by decreasing the second messenger (cAMP) through the activation of phosphodiesterase. We found that odorants also suppress CNG currents in photoreceptor cells. Under voltage clamp, an odorant puff immediately suppressed the currents induced by the intracellular cGMP in isolated newt rods and cones. Odorants also suppressed the currents induced by another cGMP analog (8-p-chlorophenylthio-cGMP, which strongly resists hydrolysis by phosphodiesterase), suggesting that the second messenger metabolism via phosphodiesterase is not involved in the suppression by odorants. This suggests that odorants suppress the CNG currents directly rather than via the second messenger system in photoreceptors, and also likely in olfactory receptor cells.

Vibrio cholerae ACE stimulates Ca(2+)-dependent Cl(-)/HCO(3)(-) secretion in T84 cells in vitro

ACE, accessory cholera enterotoxin, the third enterotoxin in Vibrio cholerae, has been reported to increase short-circuit current (I(sc)) in rabbit ileum and to cause fluid secretion in ligated rabbit ileal loops. We studied the ACE-induced change in I(sc) and potential difference (PD) in T84 monolayers mounted in modified Ussing chambers, an in vitro model of a Cl(-) secretory cell. ACE added to the apical surface alone stimulated a rapid increase in I(sc) and PD that was concentration dependent and immediately reversed when the toxin was removed. Ion replacement studies established that the current was dependent on Cl(-) and HCO(3)(-). ACE acted synergistically with the Ca(2+)-dependent acetylcholine analog, carbachol, to stimulate secretion in T84 monolayers. In contrast, the secretory response to cAMP or cGMP agonists was not enhanced by ACE. The ACE-stimulated secretion was dependent on extracellular and intracellular Ca(2+) but was not associated with an increase in intracellular cyclic nucleotides. We conclude that the mechanism of secretion by ACE involves Ca(2+) as a second messenger and that this toxin stimulates a novel Ca(2+)-dependent synergy.

Regulation of pacemaker currents in interstitial cells of Cajal from murine small intestine by cyclic nucleotides

1. Electrical rhythmicity (slow waves) in gastrointestinal muscles (GI) is generated by interstitial cells of Cajal (ICC). Cultured ICC from the murine small intestine were studied with the patch-clamp technique to characterize regulation of pacemaker currents by cyclic nucleotides. Cyclic nucleotide agonists were also tested on intact strips of murine small intestine. 2. Nitric oxide donors slowed the frequency of pacemaker currents in a concentration-dependent manner. These effects depended on cGMP formation and were reduced by 1H-[1,2, 4]oxadiazolo[4,3-a]quinoxalin-1-one (ODQ). The effects of nitric oxide donors were mimicked by membrane-permeable analogues of cGMP. The specific cGMP phosphodiesterase inhibitor zaprinast reduced the frequency of spontaneous pacemaker currents. 3. The cGMP-dependent effects on pacemaker currents were not affected by okadaic acid or KT-5823, an inhibitor of protein kinase G. 4. Forskolin, but not dideoxy forskolin, reduced the frequency of spontaneous pacemaker activity and activated a sustained outward current. The latter was likely to be due to ATP-dependent K+ channels because it was blocked by glibenclamide. 5. The effects of forskolin were not mimicked by membrane-permeable cAMP analogues. A membrane-permeable inhibitor of protein kinase A, myristoylated PKA inhibitor, and the adenylyl cyclase inhibitor SQ-22536, had no effect on responses to forskolin. 6. Responses of intact muscles to cGMP and cAMP agonists were similar to the responses of pacemaker cells. Changes in resting membrane potential and slow wave amplitude, however, were noted in intact jejunal muscles that were not observed in ICC. Differences in responses may have been due to the effects of cyclic nucleotide agonists on smooth muscle cells that would sum with responses of ICC in intact jejunal muscle strips. 7. A cGMP-dependent mechanism regulates slow wave frequency, but this occurs through direct action of cGMP not via protein phosphorylation. Regulation of pacemaker currents by cAMP-dependent mechanisms was not observed.

Single-cell mRNA expression of HCN1 correlates with a fast gating phenotype of hyperpolarization-activated cyclic nucleotide-gated ion channels (Ih) in central neurons

Hyperpolarization-activated currents (Ih) are key players in shaping rhythmic neuronal activity. Although candidate genes for Ih channels have been cloned (HCN1-HCN4), the subunit composition of different native Ih channels is unknown. We used a combined patch-clamp and qualitative single-cell reverse transcription multiplex polymerase chain reaction (RT-mPCR) approach to analyse HCN1-4 coexpression profiles in four neuronal populations in mouse CNS. Coexpression of HCN2, HCN3 and HCN4 mRNA was detected in single neurons of all four neuronal cell types analysed. In contrast, HCN1 mRNA was detected in neocortical and hippocampal pyramidal neurons but not in dopaminergic midbrain and thalamocortical neurons. HCN1 expression was correlated with significantly faster activation kinetics on the level of individual neurons. Semiquantitative single-cell RT-mPCR analysis demonstrated that HCN1 mRNA expression is at least eightfold higher in cortical neurons than subcortical neurons. We show that single neurons possess complex coexpression patterns of Ih candidate genes. Alternative expression of HCN1 is likely to be an important molecular determinant to generate the different neuronal Ih channel species adapted to tune either subcortical or cortical network activity.

Nitric oxide, cGMP and cAMP modulate nitrobenzylthioinosine-sensitive adenosine transport in human umbilical artery smooth muscle cells from subjects with gestational diabetes

Adenosine transport was characterized in human umbilical artery smooth muscle cells isolated from non-diabetic and diabetic pregnant subjects. Transport of adenosine was mediated by a Na+-independent transport system inhibited by nanomolar concentrations of nitrobenzylthioinosine (NBMPR) in both cell types. Diabetes increased adenosine transport, an effect that was associated with a higher maximal velocity (Vmax) for NBMPR-sensitive (es) saturable nucleoside transport (18 +/- 2 vs. 61 +/- 3 pmol (microgram protein)-1 min-1, P < 0.05) and the maximal number of binding sites (Bmax) for specific [3H]NBMPR binding (74 +/- 4 vs. 156 +/- 10 pmol (microgram protein)-1, P < 0.05), with no significant changes in the Michaelis-Menten (Km) and dissociation (Kd) constants, respectively. Adenosine transport was unaltered by inhibition of nitric oxide (NO) synthase (with 100 microM NG-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester, L-NAME) or protein synthesis (with 1 microM cycloheximide), but was increased by inhibition of adenylyl cyclase activity (with 100 microM, SQ-22536) in non-diabetic cells. Diabetes-induced adenosine transport was blocked by L-NAME and associated with an increase in L-[3H]citrulline formation from L-[3H]arginine and intracellular cGMP, but with a decrease in intracellular cAMP compared with non-diabetic cells. Expression of inducible NO synthase (iNOS) was unaltered by diabetes. Dibutyryl cGMP (dbcGMP) increased, but dibutyryl cAMP (dbcAMP) decreased, adenosine transport in non-diabetic cells. dbcGMP or the NO donor S-nitrosoacetylpenicillamine (SNAP, 100 microM) did not alter the diabetes-elevated adenosine transport. However, activation of adenylyl cyclase with forskolin (1 microM), directly or after incubation of cells with dbcAMP, inhibited adenosine transport in both cell types. Our findings provide the first evidence that adenosine transport in human umbilical artery smooth muscle cells is mediated by the NBMPR-sensitive transport system es, and that its activity is upregulated by gestational diabetes.

Structure and function of cardiac pacemaker channels

Cardiac pacemaking is controlled by a mixed Na(+)/K(+) current named I(f), which is activated by hyperpolarized membrane potentials. Recently, a family of hyperpolarization-activated cyclic nucleotide-gated cation (HCN) channels has been cloned. The members of this family exhibit the general features of I(f) channels. This review describes the molecular diversity of the HCN channel family and the structural determinants of channel function including activation by voltage, modulation by cyclic nucleotides and ion permeation. The relationships between cloned HCN channel types and native cardiac I(f) currents are explored.

A novel role for cyclic nucleotide-gated cation channels in lung liquid homeostasis in sheep

1. Sheep lungs were artificially perfused in situ with warmed whole oxygenated sheep blood. The airspaces of the lungs were filled with liquid containing an impermeant tracer, to allow measurement of the rate of net transepithelial liquid movement under various conditions. 2. Dichlorobenzamil (1.5 x 10-5 M), a blocker of cyclic nucleotide-gated cation channels, inhibited the resting absorption of lung liquid in sheep aged 6 months (n = 5) (from -36.47 +/- 4.62 to -4.36 +/- 5.27 ml h-1, means +/- s.e.m.; P < 0.005, paired t test). Amiloride (10-4 M), a blocker of epithelial sodium channels, had no additive effect to that of dichlorobenzamil. 3. In the lungs of sheep aged 6 months (n = 4), amiloride (10-4 M) partially inhibited the resting absorption of liquid (from -35.21 +/- 8.57 to -11.05 +/- 4.91 ml h-1; P < 0.05, one-tailed paired t test), and dichlorobenzamil (1.5 x 10-5 M) exerted an additive effect to that of amiloride resulting in secretion at +6.29 +/- 3.05 ml h-1 (P < 0. 01, paired t test). 4. In the lungs of sheep aged 6 weeks (n = 3), amiloride (10-4 M) also inhibited the resting absorption of liquid (from -26.36 +/- 14.05 to -5.17 +/- 8.27 ml h-1; P < 0.05, one-tailed paired t test); however, dichlorobenzamil (1.5 x 10-5 M) did not exert an additive effect to that of amiloride. 5. In the lungs of sheep aged 6 months (n = 4), amiloride (10-4 M) partially inhibited the resting absorption of liquid (from -35.70 +/- 8.58 to -6.79 +/- 4.28 ml h-1; P < 0.05, paired t test), and pimozide (1.5 x 10-4 M), another blocker of cyclic nucleotide-gated cation channels, also exerted an additive effect to that of amiloride, resulting in secretion of lung liquid at +15.36 +/- 9.14 ml h-1 (P < 0.05, paired t test). 6. We conclude that cyclic nucleotide-gated cation channels mediate a component of lung liquid absorption in sheep aged 6 months (but not in sheep aged 6 weeks), and that a mechanism for lung liquid secretion (present in fetuses) is retained at 6 months of age.