Functional properties of the rat Na/H exchanger NHE-2 isoform expressed in Na/H exchanger-deficient Chinese hamster ovary cells

Rapid acid extrusion response triggered by alpha(1) adrenoceptor in CHO cells

1. Using a microphysiometer with synchronized valve switching, we investigated real-time acid extrusion from Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells in which human alpha(1) adrenoceptor (AR) is stably expressed, in response to noradrenaline (NA). 2. In the cells expressing alpha(1a) AR, the time course of extracellular acidification after stimulation had two phases; in the first phase it transiently reached a rate several times greater than the base rate with a peak at around 10 s, and in the second it increased to 2 times the base rate and reached a plateau in 2 min. Both phases showed a concentration-dependent increase of acidification rate in response to NA, but had distinct pEC(50) values; 5.6 for the transient phase and 7.2 for the steady phase. 3. In the cells expressing alpha(1b) AR, the transient phase was not detected but the steady phase was observed. The pEC(50) value was 7.1, although the magnitude of the response was much smaller than that with alpha(1a) AR. 4. Both 5-(N-ethyl-N-isopropyl)amiloride (EIPA) and HOE642 inhibited the acid extrusion response by either AR in a concentration-dependent manner. EIPA and HOE642 had high pIC(50) values (7.4 and 7.3, respectively) for inhibition of the transient phase response via alpha(1a) AR. In the inhibition of the steady phase response via alpha(1a) AR, both drugs revealed the presence of two components in the response; one had high pIC(50) values (8.1 and 8.2 for EIPA and HOE642, respectively) and the other had low pIC(50) values (5.6 and 6.0, respectively). In contrast, the steady phase response via alpha(1b) AR was inhibited by EIPA and HOE642 with low pIC(50) values (5.3 and 5.9, respectively). 5. As Ca2+ was depleted, the alpha(1a) AR-induced transient phase disappeared, while the steady phase was not affected. 6. These results suggest that alpha(1a) AR drives two acid extrusion systems in CHO cells upon stimulation; one elicits the transient response, which is largely mediated by an EIPA/HOE642-sensitive and Ca(2+)-dependent Na(+)-H(+) exchanger (NHE), presumably NHE1, and the other induces the steady acid extrusion that is mediated by NHE1 and another NHE which has low sensitivity to both EIPA and HOE642. alpha(1b) AR drives only the steady phase acid extrusion response, which is mainly mediated by NHEs other than NHE1.

Differential expression and regulation of Na(+)/H(+) exchanger isoforms in rabbit parietal and mucous cells

Several Na(+)/H(+) exchanger (NHE) isoforms are expressed in the stomach, and NHE1 and NHE2 knockout mice display gastric mucosal atrophy. This study investigated the cellular distribution of the NHE isoforms NHE1, NHE2, NHE3, and NHE4 in rabbit gastric epithelial cells and their regulation by intracellular pH (pH(i)), hyperosmolarity, and an increase in cAMP. Semiquantitative RT-PCR and Northern blot experiments showed high NHE1 and NHE2 mRNA levels in mucous cells and high NHE4 mRNA levels in parietal and chief cells. Fluorescence optical measurements in cultured rabbit parietal and mucous cells using the pH-sensitive dye 2',7'-bis(2-carboxyethyl)-5(6)-carboxyfluorescein and NHE isoform-specific inhibitors demonstrated that in both cell types, intracellular acidification activates NHE1 and NHE2, whereas hyperosmolarity activates NHE1 and NHE4. The relative contribution of the different isoforms to pH(i)- and hyperosmolarity-activated Na(+)/H(+) exchange in the different cell types paralleled their relative expression levels. cAMP elevation also stimulated NHE4, whereas an increase in osmolarity above a certain threshold further increased NHE1 and not NHE4 activity. We conclude that in rabbit gastric epithelium, NHE1 and NHE4 regulate cell volume and NHE1 and NHE2 regulate pH(i). The high NHE1 and NHE2 expression levels in mucous cells may reflect their special need for pH(i) regulation during high gastric acidity. NHE4 is likely involved in volume regulation during acid secretion.

Defective fluid secretion and NaCl absorption in the parotid glands of Na+/H+ exchanger-deficient mice

Multiple Na(+)/H(+) exchangers (NHEs) are expressed in salivary gland cells; however, their functions in the secretion of saliva by acinar cells and the subsequent modification of the ionic composition of this fluid by the ducts are unclear. Mice with targeted disruptions of the Nhe1, Nhe2, and Nhe3 genes were used to study the in vivo functions of these exchangers in parotid glands. Immunohistochemistry indicated that NHE1 was localized to the basolateral and NHE2 to apical membranes of both acinar and duct cells, whereas NHE3 was restricted to the apical region of duct cells. Na(+)/H(+) exchange was reduced more than 95% in acinar cells and greater than 80% in duct cells of NHE1-deficient mice (Nhe1(-/-)). Salivation in response to pilocarpine stimulation was reduced significantly in both Nhe1(-/-) and Nhe2(-/-) mice, particularly during prolonged stimulation, whereas the loss of NHE3 had no effect on secretion. Expression of Na(+)/K(+)/2Cl(-) cotransporter mRNA increased dramatically in Nhe1(-/-) parotid glands but not in those of Nhe2(-/-) or Nhe3(-/-) mice, suggesting that compensation occurs for the loss of NHE1. The sodium content, chloride activity and osmolality of saliva in Nhe2(-/-) or Nhe3(-/-) mice were comparable with those of wild-type mice. In contrast, Nhe1(-/-) mice displayed impaired NaCl absorption. These results suggest that in parotid duct cells apical NHE2 and NHE3 do not play a major role in Na(+) absorption. These results also demonstrate that basolateral NHE1 and apical NHE2 modulate saliva secretion in vivo, especially during sustained stimulation when secretion depends less on Na(+)/K(+)/2Cl(-) cotransporter activity.

Kinetic and pharmacological properties of human brain Na(+)/H(+) exchanger isoform 5 stably expressed in Chinese hamster ovary cells

The recently cloned Na(+)/H(+) exchanger isoform 5 (NHE5) is expressed predominantly in brain, yet little is known about its functional properties. To facilitate its characterization, a full-length cDNA encoding human NHE5 was stably transfected into NHE-deficient Chinese hamster ovary AP-1 cells. Pharmacological analyses revealed that H(+)(i)-activated (22)Na(+) influx mediated by NHE5 was inhibited by several classes of drugs (amiloride compounds, 3-methylsulfonyl-4-piperidinobenzoyl guanidine methanesulfonate, cimetidine, and harmaline) at half-maximal concentrations that were intermediate to those determined for the high affinity NHE1 and the low affinity NHE3 isoforms, but closer to the latter. Kinetic analyses showed that the extracellular Na(+) dependence of NHE5 activity followed a simple hyperbolic relationship with an apparent affinity constant (K(Na)) of 18.6 +/- 1.6 mM. By contrast to other NHE isoforms, NHE5 also exhibited a first-order dependence on the intracellular H(+) concentration, achieving half-maximal activation at pH 6.43 +/- 0.08. Extracellular monovalent cations, such as H(+) and Li(+), but not K(+), acted as effective competitive inhibitors of (22)Na(+) influx by NHE5. In addition, the transport activity of NHE5 was highly dependent on cellular ATP levels. Overall, these functional features distinguish NHE5 from other family members and closely resemble those of an amiloride-resistant NHE isoform identified in hippocampal neurons.

Macula densa Na(+)/H(+) exchange activities mediated by apical NHE2 and basolateral NHE4 isoforms

Functional and immunohistochemical studies were performed to localize and identify Na(+)/H(+) exchanger (NHE) isoforms in macula densa cells. By using the isolated perfused thick ascending limb with attached glomerulus preparation dissected from rabbit kidney, intracellular pH (pH(i)) was measured with fluorescence microscopy by using 2',7'-bis-(2-carboxyethyl)-5-(and -6) carboxyfluorescein. NHE activity was assayed by measuring the initial rate of Na(+)-dependent pH(i) recovery from an acid load imposed by prior lumen and bath Na(+) removal. Removal of Na(+) from the bath resulted in a significant, DIDS-insensitive, ethylisopropyl amiloride (EIPA)-inhibitable decrease in pH(i). This basolateral transporter showed very low affinity for EIPA and Hoechst 694 (IC(50) = 9.0 and 247 microM, respectively, consistent with NHE4). The recently reported apical NHE was more sensitive to inhibition by these drugs (IC(50) = 0.86 and 7.6 microM, respectively, consistent with NHE2). Increasing osmolality, a known activator of NHE4, greatly stimulated basolateral NHE. Immunohistochemical studies using antibodies against NHE1-4 peptides demonstrated expression of NHE2 along the apical and NHE4 along the basolateral, membrane, whereas NHE1 and NHE3 were not detected. These results suggest that macula densa cells functionally and immunologically express NHE2 at the apical membrane and NHE4 at the basolateral membrane. These two isoforms likely participate in Na(+) transport, pH(i), and cell volume regulation and may be involved in tubuloglomerular feedback signaling by these cells.

NHE1, NHE2, and NHE3 contribute to regulation of intracellular pH in murine duodenal epithelial cells

Na(+)/H(+)-exchangers (NHE) mediate acid extrusion from duodenal epithelial cells, but the isoforms involved have not previously been determined. Thus we investigated 1) the contribution of Na(+)-dependent processes to acid extrusion, 2) sensitivity to Na(+)/H(+) exchange inhibitors, and 3) molecular expression of NHE isoforms. By fluorescence spectroscopy the recovery of intracellular pH (pH(i)) was measured on suspensions of isolated acidified murine duodenal epithelial cells loaded with 2', 7'-bis(2-carboxyethyl)-5(6)-carboxyfluorescein. Expression of NHE isoforms was studied by RT-PCR and Western blot analysis. Reduction of extracellular Na(+) concentration ([Na(+)](o)) during pH(i) recovery decreased H(+) efflux to minimally 12.5% of control with a relatively high apparent Michaelis constant for extracellular Na(+). The Na(+)/H(+) exchange inhibitors ethylisopropylamiloride and amiloride inhibited H(+) efflux maximally by 57 and 80%, respectively. NHE1, NHE2, and NHE3 were expressed at the mRNA level (RT-PCR) as well as at the protein level (Western blot analysis). On the basis of the effects of low [Na(+)](o) and inhibitors we propose that acid extrusion in duodenal epithelial cells involves Na(+)/H(+) exchange by isoforms NHE1, NHE2, and NHE3.

Lessons from genetically engineered animal models VIII. Absorption and secretion of ions in the gastrointestinal tract

Absorption and secretion of ions in gastrointestinal and other epithelial tissues require the concerted activities of ion pumps, channels, symporters, and exchangers, which operate in coupled systems to mediate transepithelial transport. Our understanding of the identities, membrane locations, and biochemical activities of epithelial ion transporters has advanced significantly in recent years, but major gaps and uncertainties remain in our understanding of their physiological functions. Increasingly, this problem is being addressed by the analysis of mutant mouse models developed by gene targeting. In this review, we discuss gene knockout studies of the secretory isoform of the Na(+)-K(+)-2Cl(-) cotransporter, isoforms 1, 2, and 3 of the Na(+)/H(+) exchanger, and the colonic H(+)-K(+)-ATPase. This approach is leading to a clearer understanding of the functions of these transporters in the living animal.

Na(+)/H(+) exchangers (NHE1-3) have similar turnover numbers but different percentages on the cell surface

NHE1, NHE2, and NHE3 are well-characterized cloned members of the mammalian Na(+)/H(+) exchanger (NHE) gene family. Given the specialized function and regulation of NHE1, NHE2, and NHE3, we compared basal turnover numbers of NHE1, NHE2, and NHE3 measured in the same cell system: PS120 fibroblasts lacking endogenous NHEs. NHE1, NHE2, and NHE3 were epitope tagged with vesicular stomatitis virus glycoprotein (VSVG). The following characteristics were determined on the same passage of cells transfected with NHE1V, NHE2V, or NHE3V: 1) maximal reaction velocity (V(max)) by (22)Na(+) uptake and fluorometery, 2) total amount of NHE protein by quantitative Western analysis with internal standards of VSVG-tagged maltose-binding protein, and 3) cell surface expression by cell surface biotinylation. Cell surface expression (percentage of total NHE) was 88.8 +/- 3.5, 64.6 +/- 3.3, 20.0 +/- 2.6, and 14.0 +/- 1.3 for NHE1V, 85- and 75-kDa NHE2V, and NHE3V, respectively. Despite these divergent cell surface expression levels, turnover numbers for NHE1, NHE2, and NHE3 were similar (80.3 +/- 9.6, 92.1 +/- 8.6, and 99.2 +/- 9.1 s(-1), when V(max) was determined using (22)Na uptake at 22 degrees C and 742 +/- 47, 459 +/- 16, and 609 +/- 39 s(-1) when V(max) was determined using fluorometry at 37 degrees C). These data indicate that, in the same cell system, intrinsic properties that determine turnover number are conserved among NHE1, NHE2, and NHE3.

The mudskipper, Periophthalmodon schlosseri, actively transports NH4+ against a concentration gradient

Periophthalmodon schlosseri can maintain ammonia excretion rates and low levels of ammonia in its tissues when exposed to 8 and 30 mM NH4Cl, but tissue ammonia levels rise when the fish is exposed to 100 mM NH4Cl in 50% seawater. Because the transepithelial potential is not high enough to maintain the NH4+ concentration gradient between blood and water, ammonia excretion under such a condition would appear to be active. Branchial Na+-K+-ATPase activity is very high and can be activated by physiological levels of NH4+ instead of K+. Ammonia excretion by the fish against a concentration gradient is inhibited by the addition of ouabain and amiloride to the external medium. It is concluded that Na+-K+-ATPase and an Na+/H+ exchanger may be involved in the active excretion of ammonia across the gills. This unique ability of P. schlosseri to actively excrete ammonia is related to the special structure of its gills and allows the fish to continue to excrete ammonia while air exposed or in its burrow.

Molecular cloning, tissue distribution, and functional expression of the human Na(+)/H(+) exchanger NHE2

In the present report, we describe the cloning of a human colonic cDNA that describes the full-length Na(+)/H(+) exchanger (NHE) 2 coding region. The human NHE2 (hNHE2) cDNA encodes for a polypeptide of 812 amino acids with a 90% overall identity to both rabbit and rat NHE2 isoforms. In comparison with SLC9A2, recently reported as the human NHE2, the hNHE2 polypeptide is 115 amino acids longer in the NH(2)-terminal end and shows only an 84% DNA nucleotide sequence identity. Northern blot analysis revealed that hNHE2 message has an uneven tissue distribution, with high levels in the skeletal muscle, colon, and kidney and lower levels in the testis, prostate, ovary, and small intestine. Protein expression studies with hNHE2 clone showed that a 75-kDa protein was expressed. Stable expression of transfected full-length hNHE2 cDNA in Na(+)/H(+) exchange-deficient LAP1 cells exhibited Na(+)-dependent pH recovery after an acid prepulse that was inhibited by 0.1 mM amiloride. These data indicate that this cDNA is the true human NHE2 cDNA and that the encoded protein is capable of catalyzing Na(+)/H(+) exchange activity.

Na+/H+ exchangers. Molecular diversity and relevance to heart

During the last several years, significant advances have been made in our understanding of the molecular, cellular, and physiological diversity of mammalian Na+/H+ exchangers. This transporter forms a multigene family of at least six members (NHE1-NHE6) that share approximately 20-60% amino acid identity. NHE1 is the most predominant isoform expressed in heart and it contributes significantly to myocardial pHi homeostasis, which is important for maintaining contractility. However, hyperactivation of NHE1 during episodes of cardiac ischemia and reperfusion disrupts the intracellular ion balance, leading to cardiac dysfunction and damage in several animal models, but which can be prevented by pharmacological antagonists of NHE1. Molecular studies have indicated that the predicted transmembrane segments M4 and M9 contain several residues involved in drug sensitivity. Molecular dissection of the drug binding region should facilitate the rational design of more potent and isoform-specific drugs that may provide therapeutic benefit in the prevention of cardiac ischemia and reperfusion injuries.

NHE2 contains subdomains in the COOH terminus for growth factor and protein kinase regulation

The cloned epithelial cell-specific Na+/H+ exchanger (NHE) isoform NHE2 is stimulated by fibroblast growth factor (FGF), phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA), okadaic acid (OA), and fetal bovine serum (FBS) through a change in maximal velocity of the transporter. In the present study, we used COOH-terminal truncation mutants to delineate specific domains in the COOH terminus of NHE2 that are responsible for growth factor and/or protein kinase regulation. Five truncation mutants (designated by the amino acid number at the truncation site) were stably expressed in NHE-deficient PS120 fibroblasts. The effects of PMA, FGF, OA, FBS, and W-13 [a Ca2+/calmodulin (CaM) inhibitor] were studied. Truncation mutant E2/660, but not E2/573, was stimulated by PMA. OA stimulated E2/573 but not E2/540. FGF stimulated E2/540 but not E2/499. The most truncated mutant, E2/499, was stimulated by FBS. W-13 stimulated the basal activity of the wild-type NHE2. However, W-13 had no effect on E2/755. By monitoring the emission spectra of dansylated CaM fluorescence, we showed that dansylated CaM bound directly to a purified fusion protein of glutathione S-transferase and the last 87 amino acids of NHE2 in a Ca2+-dependent manner, with a stoichiometry of 1:1 and a dissociation constant of 300 nM. Our results showed that the COOH terminus of NHE2 is organized into separate stimulatory and inhibitory growth factor/protein kinase regulatory subdomains. This organization of growth factor/protein kinase regulatory subdomains is very similar to that of NHE3, suggesting that the tertiary structures of the putative COOH termini of NHE2 and NHE3 are very similar despite the minimal amino acid identity in this part of the two proteins.

Molecular cloning, genomic organization, and functional expression of Na+/H+ exchanger isoform 5 (NHE5) from human brain

To isolate a cDNA encoding Na+/H+ exchanger isoform 5 (NHE5), we screened a human spleen library using exon sequences of the NHE5 gene. Clones spanning 2.9 kilobase pairs were isolated; however, they contained several introns and were missing coding sequences at both the 5' and 3' ends. The missing 5' sequences were obtained by 5'-rapid amplification of cDNA ends and by analysis of an NHE5 genomic clone, and the missing 3' sequences were obtained by 3'-rapid amplification of cDNA ends. Polymerase chain reaction amplification of brain cDNA yielded products in which each of the introns had been correctly excised, whereas the introns were retained in products from spleen and testis, suggesting that the NHE5 transcripts expressed in these organs do not encode a functional transporter. The intron/exon organization of the NHE5 gene was analyzed and found to be very similar to that of the NHE3 gene. The NHE5 cDNA, which encodes an 896-amino acid protein that is most closely related to NHE3, was expressed in Na+/H+ exchanger-deficient fibroblasts and shown to mediate Na+/H+ exchange activity. Northern blot analysis demonstrated that the mRNA encoding NHE5 is expressed in multiple regions of the brain, including hippocampus, consistent with the possibility that it regulates intracellular pH in hippocampal and other neurons.

Subcellular localization of the Na+/H+ exchanger NHE1 in rat myocardium

The Na+/H+ exchanger NHE1 isoform is an integral component of cardiac intracellular pH homeostasis that is critically important for myocardial contractility. To gain further insight into its physiological significance, we determined its cellular distribution in adult rat heart by using immunohistochemistry and confocal microscopy. NHE1 was localized predominantly at the intercalated disk regions in close proximity to the gap junction protein connexin 43 of atrial and ventricular muscle cells. Significant labeling of NHE1 was also observed along the transverse tubular systems, but not the lateral sarcolemmal membranes, of both cell types. In contrast, the Na+-K+-ATPase alpha1-subunit was readily labeled by a specific mouse monoclonal antibody (McK1) along the entire ventricular sarcolemma and intercalated disks and, to a lesser extent, in the transverse tubules. These results indicate that NHE1 has a distinct distribution in heart and may fulfill specialized roles by selectively regulating the pH microenvironment of pH-sensitive proteins at the intercalated disks (e.g., connexin 43) and near the cytosolic surface of sarcoplasmic reticulum cisternae (e.g., ryanodine receptor), thereby influencing impulse conduction and excitation-contraction coupling.

Expression of multiple Na+/H+ exchanger isoforms in rat parotid acinar and ductal cells

Several members of the Na+/H+ exchanger gene family (NHE1, NHE2, NHE3, and NHE4) with unique functional properties have been cloned from rat epithelial tissues. The present study examined the molecular and pharmacological properties of Na+/H+ exchange in rat parotid salivary gland cells. In acinar cells superfused with a physiological salt solution (145 mM Na+), Na+/H+ exchanger activity was inhibited by low concentrations of the amiloride derivative ethylisopropyl amiloride (EIPA; IC50 = 0.014 +/- 0.005 microM), suggesting the expression of amiloride-sensitive isoforms NHE1 and/or NHE2. Semiquantitative RT-PCR confirmed that NHE1 transcripts are most abundant in this cell type. In contrast, the intermediate sensitivity of ductal cells to EIPA indicated that inhibitor-sensitive and -resistant Na+/H+ exchanger isoforms are coexpressed. Ductal cells were about one order of magnitude more resistant to EIPA (IC50 = 0.754 +/- 0.104 microM) than cell lines expressing NHE1 or NHE2 (IC50 = 0.076 +/- 0.013 or 0.055 +/- 0.015 microM, respectively). Conversely, ductal cells were nearly one order of magnitude more sensitive to EIPA than a cell line expressing the NHE3 isoform (IC50 = 6.25 +/- 1.89 microM). Semiquantitative RT-PCR demonstrated that both NHE1 and NHE3 transcripts are expressed in ducts. NHE1 was immunolocalized to the basolateral membranes of acinar and ductal cells, whereas NHE3 was exclusively seen in the apical membrane of ductal cells. Immunoblotting, immunolocalization, and semiquantitative RT-PCR experiments failed to detect NHE2 expression in either cell type. Taken together, our results demonstrate that NHE1 is the dominant functional Na+/H+ exchanger in the plasma membrane of rat parotid acinar cells, whereas NHE1 and NHE3 act in concert to regulate the intracellular pH of ductal cells.

Membrane-limited expression and regulation of Na+-H+ exchanger isoforms by P2 receptors in the rat submandibular gland duct

1. Cell-specific reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), immunolocalization and microspectrofluorometry were used to identify and localize the Na+-H+ exchanger (NHE) isoforms expressed in the submandibular gland (SMG) acinar and duct cells and their regulation by basolateral and luminal P2 receptors in the duct. 2. The molecular and immunofluorescence analysis showed that SMG acinar and duct cells expressed NHE1 in the basolateral membrane (BLM). Duct cells also expressed NHE2 and NHE3 in the luminal membrane (LM). 3. Expression of NHE3 was unequivocally established by the absence of staining in SMG from NHE3 knockout mice. NHE3 was expressed in the LM and in subluminal regions of the duct. 4. Measurement of the inhibition of NHE activity by the amiloride analogue HOE 694 (HOE) suggested expression of NHE1-like activity in the BLM and NHE2-like activity in the LM of the SMG duct. Several acute and chronic treatments tested failed to activate NHE activity with low affinity for HOE as expected for NHE3. Hence, the physiological function and role of NHE3 in the SMG duct is not clear at present. 5. Activation of P2 receptors resulted in activation of an NHE-independent, luminal H+ transport pathway that markedly and rapidly acidified the cells. This pathway could be blocked by luminal but not basolateral Ba2+. 6. Stimulation of P2U receptors expressed in the BLM activated largely NHE1-like activity, and stimulation of P2Z receptors expressed in the LM activated largely NHE2-like activity. 7. The interrelation between basolateral and luminal NHE activities and their respective regulation by P2U and P2Z receptors can be used to co-ordinate membrane transport events in the LM and BLM during active Na+ reabsorption by the SMG duct.

Regulation of apical membrane Na+/H+ exchangers NHE2 and NHE3 in intestinal epithelial cell line C2/bbe

We examined the regulation of the Na+/H+ exchangers (NHEs) NHE2 and NHE3 by expressing them in human intestinal C2/bbe cells, which spontaneously differentiate and have little basal apical NHE activity. Unidirectional apical membrane 22Na+ influxes were measured in NHE2-transfected (C2N2) and NHE3-transfected (C2N3) cells under basal and stimulated conditions, and their activities were distinguished as the HOE-642-sensitive and -insensitive components of 5-(N,N-dimethyl)amiloride-inhibitable flux. Both C2N2 and C2N3 cells exhibited increased apical membrane NHE activity under non-acid-loaded conditions compared with nontransfected control cells. NHE2 was inhibited by 8-(4-chlorophenylthio)adenosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate and thapsigargin, was stimulated by serum, and was unaffected by cGMP- and protein kinase C-dependent pathways. In contrast, NHE3 was inhibited by all regulatory pathways examined. Under acid-loaded conditions (which increase apical Na+ influx), NHE2 and NHE3 exhibited similar patterns of regulation, suggesting that the second messenger effects observed were not secondary to effects on cell pH. Thus, in contrast to their expression in nonepithelial cells, NHE2 and NHE3 expressed in an epithelial cell line behave similarly to endogenously expressed intestinal apical membrane NHEs. We conclude that physiological regulation and function of epithelium-specific NHEs are dependent on tissue-specific factors and/or conditional requirements.

Contributions of Na+/H+ exchanger isoforms to preimplantation development of the mouse

Previous work provided evidence of Na+/H+ exchanger activity in the apical domain of mouse trophectodermal plasma membranes that provides a route for entry of extracellular Na+ (Manejwala et al., 1989). This activity was hypothesized to contribute to the trans-trophectodermal Na+ flux that is required for blastocoel expansion. In the present work, we have used reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and immunocytochemistry to identify members of the Na+/H+ exchanger (NHE) family that are likely to participate in this process. When cDNA preparations from ovulated oocytes and several stages of preimplantation development were tested with PCR primers specific for the NHE-1, -2, -3, and -4 isoforms of the exchanger, only amplicons representing the NHE-1 and NHE-3 isoforms were detected. The identity of these amplicons was confirmed by direct sequencing. NHE-1 mRNA is present in oocytes and in all preimplantation stages, increasing threefold on a per embryo basis between the 4-cell and blastocyst stages. NHE-3 mRNA, on the other hand, was only detected in oocytes. Immunocytochemical analysis of blastocysts revealed that NHE-1 is localized in the basolateral domain of the trophectoderm, whereas NHE-3 is localized in the apical domain, a situation like that in epithelia of adult organs. We conclude that NHE-3, an oogenetic product that persists into the blastocyst stage, is the Na+/H+ exchanger isoform most likely to be involved in blastocoel expansion.

Polarized distribution of Na+/H+ exchanger isoforms in rabbit collecting duct cells

The present study describes two Na+/H+ exchanger (NHE) isoforms in an immortalized rabbit renal cortical collecting tubule cell line (RC.SV3). Na+/H+ exchange activity was assayed using fluorescence measurements of intracellular pH (pHi) in monolayers mounted in a cuvette containing two fluid compartments, making it possible to independently measure Na+/H+ exchange activity on either the apical or basolateral surface. RC.SV3 monolayers express Na+/H+ exchange activities in both the apical and basolateral membrane domains. The two exchangers have half-saturation constants (Km) for external sodium and sensitivities to dimethylamiloride, to HOE-694 and to cimetidine and clonidine consistant with the NHE-1 isoform on the basolateral cell surface and the NHE-2 isoform on the apical surface. Protein kinase A inhibition of basolateral exchanger activity was significantly higher than that of the apical exchanger. Protein kinase C significantly stimulated both exchangers equally. RT-PCR analysis found RNA for only NHE-1 and NHE-2, and immunofluorescence with an antibody against NHE-1 demonstrated a basolateral location for this isoform. The results suggest that RC.SV3 cells have two Na+/H+ exchange activities separated spatially to the two cellular membranes, with the NHE-1 and the NHE-2 isoforms located on the basolateral and the apical membranes, respectively.

Identification of a mitochondrial Na+/H+ exchanger

The electroneutral exchange of protons for Na+ and K+ across the mitochondrial inner membrane contributes to organellar volume and Ca2+ homeostasis. The molecular nature of these transporters remains unknown. In this report, we characterize a novel gene (YDR456w; renamed NHA2) in Saccharomyces cerevisiae whose deduced protein sequence is homologous to members of the mammalian Na+/H+ exchanger gene family. Fluorescence microscopy showed that a Nha2-green fluorescent protein chimera colocalizes with 4',6-diamidino-2-phenylindole staining of mitochondrial DNA. To assess the function of Nha2, we deleted the NHA2 gene by homologous disruption and found that benzamil-inhibitable, acid-activated 22Na+ uptake into mitochondria was abolished in the mutant strain. It also showed retarded growth on nonfermentable carbon sources and severely reduced survival during the stationary phase of the cell cycle compared with the parental strain, consistent with a defect in aerobic metabolism. Sequence comparisons revealed that Nha2 has highest identity to a putative Na+/H+ exchanger homologue (KIAA0267; renamed NHE6) in humans. Northern blot analysis demonstrated that NHE6 is ubiquitously expressed but is most abundant in mitochondrion-rich tissues such as brain, skeletal muscle, and heart. Fluorescence microscopy showed that a NHE6-green fluorescent protein chimera also accumulates in mitochondria of transfected HeLa cells. These data indicate that NHA2 and NHE6 encode homologous Na+/H+ exchangers and suggest they may be important for mitochondrial function in lower and higher eukaryotes, respectively.

NH4+ as a substrate for apical and basolateral Na(+)-H+ exchangers of thick ascending limbs of rat kidney: evidence from isolated membranes

1. We have used highly purified right-side-out luminal and basolateral membrane vesicles (LMVs and BLMVs) isolated from rat medullary thick ascending limb (MTAL) to study directly the possible roles of the LMV and BLMV Na(+)-H+ exchangers in the transport of NH4+. 2. Extravesicular NH4+ ((NH4+)o) inhibited outward H+ gradient-stimulated 22Na+ uptake in both types of vesicles. This inhibition could not be accounted for by alteration of intravesicular pH (pHi). 3. Conversely, in both plasma membrane preparations, the imposition of outward NH4+ gradients stimulated 22Na+ uptake at the acidic pHi (6.60) of MTAL cells, under conditions in which possible alterations in pHi were prevented. All NH4+ gradient-stimulated Na+ uptake was sensitive to 0.5 mM 5-(N,N-dimethyl)-amiloride. 4. The BLMV and LMV Na(+)-H+ exchangers had a similar apparent affinity for internal H+ (Hi+), with pK (-log of dissociation constant) values of 6.58 and 6.52, respectively. 5. These findings indicate that NH4+ interacts with the external and internal transport sites of the LMV and BLMV Na(+)-H+ antiporters, and that both of these exchangers can mediate the exchange of internal NH4+ ((NH4+)i) for external Na+ (Na+o) at the prevailing pHi of MTAL cells. 6. We conclude that operation of the BLMV Na(+)-H+ exchanger on the NH4(+)-Na+ mode may represent an important pathway for mediating the final step of NH4+ absorption, whereas transport of NH4+ on the apical antiporter may provide negative feedback regulation of NH4+ absorption.

Sodium-lithium countertransport: physiology and function

Current opinions on the relationships between erythrocyte sodium-lithium countertransport kinetics and primary hypertension, hyperlipidaemia and diabetic nephropathy are reviewed. Problems associated with the assay are analysed. Some possible mechanisms that could modify the kinetics of ion exchange are examined. The question of what catalyses sodium-lithium countertransport is discussed, but not answered. Some models are put forward showing how a study of sodium-lithium countertransport kinetics could further our understanding of important disease processes.

Role for epithelial Na+ channels and putative Na+/H+ exchangers in salt taste transduction in rats

The effects of the epithelial Na+ channel antagonists amiloride and benzamil and the Na+/H+ exchange antagonist 5-(N,N-dimethyl)-amiloride (DMA)-Cl on the integrated responses of the chorda tympani nerve to 30, 75, 150, 300, and 500 mM concentrations of NaCl, KCl, and NH4Cl were assessed in male Sprague-Dawley rats. Based on evidence from other systems, 1 and 25 microM amiloride and benzamil were chosen to selectively inhibit epithelial Na+ channels and 1 microM DMA was chosen to selectively inhibit Na+/H+ exchange. When added to stimulating salt solutions, amiloride, benzamil, and DMA were each effective in inhibiting responses to all three salts. The degree of inhibition varied with drug, salt, and salt concentration, but not drug dose. Amiloride suppressed NaCl responses to a greater degree than KCl and NH4Cl responses, whereas DMA suppressed NH4Cl responses to a greater degree than NaCl and KCl responses. In all but one case (25 microM amiloride added to KCl), drug suppression of taste nerve responses decreased with an increase in salt concentration. The present results suggest that 1) epithelial Na+ channels in rat taste receptor cells may play a role in KCl and NH4Cl taste transduction; 2) a Na+/H+ exchange protein may be present in taste receptor cells, representing a putative component, in addition to epithelial Na+ channels, in salt taste transduction; and 3) salt taste detection and transduction may depend on the utilization of a combination of common and distinct transcellular pathways.

An avian sodium-hydrogen exchanger

Intestinal sodium transporters, such as the Na+/H+ exchanger (NHE) are important for Na+ conservation in land birds. In mammals, at least five isoforms of the exchanger, NHEs 1-5, have been cloned, with NHE-1 occurring in epithelial basolateral and nonepithelial cell membranes and NHE-3 being restricted to epithelial apical/brush border membranes. We had demonstrated earlier that chicken intestinal brush border membranes possess NHE activity that functionally resembles mammalian NHE-3. In this study, we used mammalian NHE-1 and NHE-3 probes to examine if chicken enterocytes possess these transporters. Antisera against rat NHE-3 recognized a 97 kDa protein in chicken intestinal brush border membrane, while a NHE-3 cDNA probe failed to recognize any transcript. A NHE-1 antibody failed to recognize any protein in brush border or basolateral membrane, while a NHE-1 cDNA probe recognized a 3.9 kb transcript. Thus, there is more than one NHE isoform in chicken intestine, and our results suggest a novel avian NHE family.

Tissue distribution of Na+/H+ exchanger isoforms NHE2 and NHE4 in rat intestine and kidney

We present evidence that tissue distribution of two highly conserved Na+/H+ exchanger isoforms, NHE2 and NHE4, differs significantly from previously published reports. Riboprobes unique to each of these antiporters, from 5' (noncoding and coding) and 3' coding regions, were used to analyze mRNA from adult rat kidney and intestine by ribonuclease protection assay and in situ hybridization. In contrast to earlier work that concluded that both NHE2 and NHE4 were expressed throughout the intestine and in the kidney, our data show that there is no NHE2 message in the kidney and NHE4 is not expressed in small or large intestine. Analyses of intestinal epithelial and kidney membrane proteins by an NHE2-specific antibody identified a doublet at < 90 kDa in intestine but not in kidney. NHE2 is highly expressed in the Na(+)-absorptive epithelium of jejunum, ileum, and ascending and descending colon. NHE4 mRNA message is found in the inner medulla of the kidney as previously reported (C. Bookstein, M. W. Musch, A. DePaoli, Y. Xie, M. Villereal, M. C. Rao, and E. B. Chang. J. Biol. Chem. 269: 29704-29709, 1994) and not in the intestine. From these data, we speculate that neither NHE2 nor NHE4 has a role in renal Na+ absorption. NHE2 is likely involved in gut Na+ absorption, whereas NHE4 may have a specialized role in cell volume rectification of inner medullary collecting duct cells. Knowledge of the correct tissue and cell-specific distribution of these two antiporters should help significantly in understanding their physiological roles.

Apical location and inhibition by arginine vasopressin of K+/H+ antiport of the medullary thick ascending limb of rat kidney

To characterize and localize a K+/H+ antiport mechanism in the renal medullary thick ascending limb (MTAL), membrane vesicles were isolated from a rat MTAL homogenate. K+/H+ antiport (in > out H+ gradient-stimulated 86Rb+ uptake) was abolished by barium and verapamil (apparent Ki of 55 microM) but unaffected by other K+ channel blockers such as quinidine and high amiloride concentrations. SCH 28080, a H+/K+-ATPase blocker, did not affect K+/H+ antiport. K+/H+ antiport activity was correlated positively with the enrichment factor of the membranes in the apical marker enzyme alkaline phosphatase (r = 0.875, p < 0.01) and negatively correlated with the enrichment factor in basolateral Na+/K+-ATPase (r = -0.665, p < 0.05). Moreover, a functional interaction occurred with Na+/H+ exchange (NHE) consistent with colocation of K+/H+ antiport and apical NHE-3, not basolateral NHE-1. K+/H+ antiport was shown by intracellular pH measurements to be inhibited by arginine vasopressin and 8-bromo-cAMP through cAMP-dependent protein kinase (protein kinase A) activation. These results demonstrate the presence of a K+/H+ antiport mechanism, which is inhibited by arginine vasopressin via protein kinase A, in the apical membrane of the MTAL.

Evidence for an amiloride-insensitive Na+/H+ exchanger in rat renal cortical tubules

We have characterized the Na+/H+ exchanger (NHE) isoforms expressed in rat renal cortical tubule fragments. Amiloride sensitivity of the Na(+)-dependent intracellular pH (pHi) recovery in suspended tubules that had been acid loaded by an NH4+ prepulse was determined in nominally CO2/HCO3(-)-free solution, using the fluorescent pH-sensitive dye 2',7'-bis(carboxyethyl)-5(6)-carboxyfluorescein. In the presence of 140 mM extracellular Na+, 800 microM amiloride inhibited the rate of Na(+)-dependent pHi recovery by only 65%, demonstrating the presence of a Na(+)-dependent amiloride-insensitive H+ extrusion system. This system was not affected by 4-acetamido-4'-isothiocyanostilbene-2,2'-disulfonic acid but was activated by 4,4'-diisothiocyanostilbene-2,2'-disulfonic acid. Lowering extracellular Na+ concentration permitted 300 microM amiloride to completely inhibit Na(+)-dependent pHi recovery. These results can be explained by the expression of a Na+/H+ exchange with the pharmacological properties of NHE4. Using reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction, we found specific mRNA for NHE1, NHE2, NHE3, and NHE4 isoforms in the renal cortex. Immunohistochemical studies using polyclonal antibodies against rat NHE4 peptide demonstrated that NHE4 is heterogeneously expressed on basolateral membrane domains of cortical tubules. These results strongly suggest that amiloride-insensitive Na+/H+ exchange expressed in renal cortical tubule suspensions is mediated by NHE4.

Characterization of the rat Na+/H+ exchanger isoform NHE4 and localization in rat hippocampus

The kinetics of the Na+/H+ exchanger (NHE) isoform NHE4 were studied by measuring 22Na+ fluxes in stably transfected NHE-deficient fibroblasts. Unlike NHE1, NHE2, and NHE3, activation of this isoform is dependent on hyperosmolarity-induced cell shrinkage. It is virtually inactive at isosmolarity and most active at 490 mosM. When induced by cell shrinkage, NHE4 exhibits a sigmoidal response to increasing extracellular Na+ concentrations, suggesting allosteric or cooperative binding kinetics. In comparison, NHE1 and -3 exhibit hyperbolic velocity vs. extracellular Na+ concentration responses at both iso- and hyperosmolar conditions. Unlike NHE1 and NHE4, hyperosmolarity-induced cell shrinkage inhibits NHE3 activity in transfected fibroblasts, reducing maximum velocity by 40%, with no effect on binding affinity to extracellular Na+.NHE4 is relatively insensitive to inhibition by amiloride analogues in the order 5-(N,N-dimethyl)amiloride > 5-(N,N-hexamethylene)amiloride ride > amiloride > 5-(N-ethyl-N-isopropyl)amiloride. Time-dependent inhibition of activity by cytochalasin D suggests a relationship between the actin cytoskeleton and regulation by cell shrinkage. By in situ hybridization of fixed tissues, NHE4 mRNA was found to be highly expressed in the cavi amnoni fields of rat hippocampus. The kinetics of this exchanger, when considered with its unusual tissue distribution in renal inner medullary collecting tubules and hippocampus, are-consistent with NHE4 having a specialized role in cell functions.

Activation of Na+/H+ exchange is required for regulatory volume decrease after modest "physiological" volume increases in jejunal villus epithelial cells

Epithelial cell volume increases that occur because of the uptake of Na+-cotransported solutes or hypotonic dilution are followed by a regulatory volume decrease (RVD) due to the activation of K+ and Cl- channels. We studied the relationship of Na+/H+ exchange (NHE) to this RVD in suspended guinea pig jejunal villus cells, using electronic sizing to measure cell volume changes and fluorescent spectroscopy of cells loaded with 2', 7'-bis(carboxyethyl)-5()-carboxyfluorescein to monitor intracellular pH (pHi). When the volume increase achieved by these cells during Na+ solute absorption was duplicated by a modest 5-7% hypotonic dilution, their pHi first acidified and then alkalinized. This alkalinization was blocked by 5-(N-methyl-N-isobutyl) amiloride (MIA; 1 microM), an inhibitor of NHE. The RVD subsequent to 5-7% hypotonic dilution was prevented by Na+-free medium and by amiloride and non-amiloride derivatives. The order of potency of these inhibitors was as follows: MIA > 5-(N,N-dimethyl) amiloride > cimetidine > clonidine, in keeping with the pattern attributable to NHE-1 as the isoform of NHE responsible for increase in pHi after modest volume increases. A substantial 30% hypotonic dilution caused acidification, and RVD following this larger volume increase was not affected by MIA. To assess the effect of hypotonicity on the activity of NHE, we measured the rate of MIA-sensitive pHi recovery from an acid load (dpHi/dt) in 5 and 30% hypotonic media. pHi recovery was faster in 5% hypotonic medium compared with isotonic medium and slowest in 30% hypotonic medium, which suggested that the activity of NHE was stimulated in the slightly hypotonic medium, but inhibited in the 30% hypotonic medium. To determine the role of activated NHE in RVD after a modest volume increase, cells were hypotonically diluted 7% in MIA to prevent RVD and then alkalinized by NH4Cl or acidified by propionic acid addition. Only after alkalinization was there complete volume regulation. We conclude that in Na+-absorbing enterocytes, the NHE-1 isoform of Na+/H+ exchange is stimulated by volume increases that duplicate the "physiological" volume increase occurring when these cells absorb Na+-cotransported solutes. The subsequent alkalinization of pHi is a required determinant of the osmolyte loss that underlies this distinct volume regulatory mechanism.

Delineation of transmembrane domains of the Na+/H+ exchanger that confer sensitivity to pharmacological antagonists

Plasma membrane Na+/H+ exchanger (NHE) isoforms NHE1 and NHE3 exhibit very different sensitivities to amiloride and its 5-amino-substituted analogues, benzoyl guanidinium derivatives (e.g. (3-methylsulfonyl-4-piperidinobenzoyl)guanidine methanesulfonate (HOE694)), and cimetidine. To define structural domains that confer differential sensitivity to these antagonists, unique restriction endonuclease sites were engineered into cDNAs for each isoform near the regions that encode the putative membrane-spanning domains. These new sites did not modify their pharmacological properties and allowed several chimeric Na+/H+ exchangers to be constructed by exchanging homologous segments. The modified parental (E1' and E3') and chimeric molecules were stably expressed in exchanger-deficient Chinese hamster ovary AP-1 cells and assayed for their sensitivities to amiloride, ethylisopropylamiloride, HOE694, and cimetidine. Most chimeras showed drug sensitivities corresponding to the dominant parental segment. However, interchanging a 66-amino acid segment containing the putative ninth transmembrane (M9) domain and its adjacent loops caused reciprocal alterations in the sensitivities of E1' and E3' to all antagonists. In addition, substituting the first five putative membrane-spanning domains of E3' with the corresponding region of E1' modestly reduced the transporter's sensitivity to cimetidine but not the other compounds. These data indicate that the protein segment between M8 and M10 may be a major site of interaction with these antagonists, although other regions modestly influence sensitivity to certain drugs.

Vestibular dark cells contain the Na+/H+ exchanger NHE-1 in the basolateral membrane

Vestibular dark cells and strial marginal cells transport K+ by similar mechanisms. We have shown that K+ transport in vestibular dark cells is sensitive to the cytosolic pH (pHi) (Wangemann et al. (1995a): J. Membrane Biol. 147: 255-262). The present study addresses pharmacologically the questions whether vestibular dark cells and strial marginal cells from the gerbil contain a Na+/H+ exchanger (NHE) and in which membrane, apical or basolateral, NHE is located. Further, the study addresses the question which NHE subtype is present in vestibular dark cells. pHi was measured micro-fluorometrically with the pH-sensitive dye 2',7'-bicarboxyethyl-5(6)-carboxyfluorescein (BCECF), cell volume which is a measure of the net balance between ion influx and efflux was monitored as cell height (CH) and the equivalent short circuit current (Isc) which is a measure of transepithelial K+ secretion was calculated from measurements of the transepithelial voltage (Vt) and the transepithelial resistance (Rt). Changes in pHi were induced by 20 or 40 mM propionate. In the presence of propionate a transient acidification of pHi was observed in vestibular dark cells as well as a subsequent alkalinization to pHi values exceeding those under control conditions. The alkalinization of pHi in the presence of propionate was inhibited by the NHE blockers amiloride and EIPA. Propionate-induced swelling of vestibular dark cells was inhibited by amiloride. The NHE blocker amiloride caused in vestibular dark cells an acidification of pHi and a decrease in CH. Amiloride caused in both vestibular dark cells and strial marginal cells a transient stimulation of Isc when added to the basolateral side but not added to the apical side. Similar effects and pHi were observed in vestibular dark cells with the amiloride analog ethyl-isopropyl-amiloride (EIPA) and similar effects on Isc were observed with EIPA and the NHE blocker HOE694 when applied to the basolateral side of vestibular dark cell epithelium. The IC50 for these basolateral effects of EIPA, HOE694 and amiloride on Isc in vestibular dark cells were 2 x 10(-7) M, 8 x 10(-7) M and 4 x 10(-5) M. These observation suggest that vestibular dark cells and strial marginal cells contain NHE in their basolateral membrane, that K+ transport in strial marginal cells in pHi sensitive similar to K+ transport in vestibular dark cells and that NHE in vestibular dark cells consists of the subtype NHE-1.

Renal Na+/H+ exchanger isoforms and their regulation by thyroid hormone

Na+ crosses the luminal membrane of the proximal tubule primarily via Na+/H+ exchange (NHE), and NHE activity is influenced by thyroid status. Pharmacological, immunological, and kinetic studies indicate multiple isoforms of NHE, and four full-length cDNAs have been cloned to date. The aims of this study were to determine which NHE mRNAs (NHE1, -2, -3, and -4) were expressed in the rat proximal tubule, the relative abundance of each in the renal cortex, and the effect of thyroid status on their expression. By blot hybridization of poly(A)+ RNA, all NHE isoform mRNAs were detected in the rat renal cortex; NHE1, -2, and -3 in the proximal tubule; and NHE1 and -3 in LLC-PK1 cells. NHE3 mRNA abundance was fourfold higher than the other three isoforms in renal cortex. The effect of thyroid status was assessed in renal cortex from euthyroid, hypothyroid, and hyperthyroid rats. Although none of the NHE mRNA levels was altered in the transition from euthyroid to hypothyroid states, both NHE2 and NHE3 mRNA levels increased 1.5-fold in the transition from hypo- to hyperthyroidism. NHE3 protein, measured by immunoblot with the use of an NHE3-specific antibody, was detected at 83-85 kDa in renal cortex and codistributed on sorbitol gradients with the brush-border marker alkaline phosphatase. No significant difference in NHE3 protein abundance was detected between hypothyroid and hyperthyroid rats. In conclusion, in the renal cortex, the NHE3 isoform predominates at the mRNA level, is expressed in apical membranes, and increases at the mRNA but not the protein levels in response to thyroid hormone treatment, suggesting parallel changes in synthesis and turnover of NHE3 by thyroid hormone.

Plasma membrane Na+/H+ exchanger isoforms (NHE-1, -2, and -3) are differentially responsive to second messenger agonists of the protein kinase A and C pathways

Na+/H+ exchanger (NHE) activity is regulated by several types of receptors directly coupled to distinct classes (i.e. Gs, Gi, Gq, and G12) of heterotrimeric (alpha beta gamma) GTP-binding proteins (G proteins), which, upon activation, modulate production of various second messengers (e.g. cAMP, cGMP, diacylglycerol, inositol trisphosphate, and Ca2+). Recently, four isoforms of the rat Na+/H+ exchanger were identified by molecular cloning. To examine their intrinsic responsiveness to G protein and second messenger stimulation, three of these isoforms, NHE-1, -2, and -3, were stably expressed in mutant Chinese hamster ovary cells devoid of endogenous NHE activity (AP-1 cells). Incubation of cells with either AIF4-, a general agonist of G proteins, or cholera toxin, a selective activator of G alpha s that stimulates adenylate cyclase, accelerated the rates of amiloride-inhibitable 22Na+ influx mediated by NHE-1 and -2, whereas they inhibited that by NHE-3. Similarly, short term treatment with phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate, which mimics diacylglycerol activation of protein kinase C (PKC), or with agents (i.e. forskolin, 8-(4-chlorophenylthio)-cAMP, and isobutylmethylxanthine) that lead to activation of cAMP-dependent protein kinase (PKA) also stimulated transport by NHE-1 and NHE-2 but depressed that by NHE-3. The effects of phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate were blocked by depleting cells of PKC or by inhibiting PKC using chelerythrine chloride, confirming a role for PKC in modulating NHE isoform activities. Likewise, the PKA antagonist, H-89, attenuated the effects of elevated cAMPi on NHE-1, -2, and -3, further demonstrating the regulation by PKA. Unlike cAMPi, elevation of cGMPi by treatment with dibutyryl-cGMP or 8-bromo-cGMP had no influence on NHE isoform activities, thereby excluding the possibility of a role for cGMP-dependent protein kinase in these cells. These data support the concept that the NHE isoforms are differentially responsive to agonists of the PKA and PKC pathways.

Expression of NHE-3 in the apical membrane of rat renal proximal tubule and thick ascending limb

Apical membrane Na/H exchange is a principal mechanism of renal proximal tubule Na absorption and H secretion, and thick ascending limb H secretion. Based on current data on Na/H exchanger isoforms (NHE-1 to 5), NHE-3 is the likeliest candidate for the apical membrane isoform. The present study localizes NHE-3 in rat kidney using polyclonal antisera against cytoplasmic epitopes of rat NHE-3. These antisera recognized an approximately 87 kD protein in Na/H exchanger-deficient cells transfected with the rat NHE-3 gene but not in mock-transfected cells. All antisera labeled an approximately 87 kD protein in plasma membranes from cortex and outer medulla. Fractionation of cortical membranes showed labeling in apical but not basolateral membranes. Cross linking studies suggested existence of oligomeric forms of the transporter. Immunohistochemistry showed strong staining of the apical membrane of S1 convoluted, and S2 convoluted tubule with lesser staining of the S2 straight tubule and absent staining of S3. Weak staining was observed in thin descending limbs in the inner stripe and intense staining was seen in the apical membrane of medullary and cortical thick ascending limbs. NHE-3 staining was absent in the remainder of the nephron. In summary, NHE-3 is the isoform responsible for NaCl and NaHCO3 absorption in the proximal convoluted tubule, and NaHCO absorption in the thick ascending limb. In the S3 proximal tubule and the distal convoluted tubule, apical membrane Na/H exchange activity is likely mediated by other isoform(s) of the NHE family.

Na+/H+ exchange modulates acidification of early rat liver endocytic vesicles

Endocytic vesicles are acidified by an electrogenic vacuolar H(+)-ATPase. These studies examined whether rat liver endosomes also exhibit Na+/H+ exchange and whether this transporter alters acidification. Extravesicular Na+ caused saturable proton efflux from acidified endosomes with a Michaelis constant for Na+ of 7.6 mM, whereas an in-to-out Na+ gradient caused endosome acidification without MgATP and accelerated acidification with MgATP. Na(+)-driven proton fluxes were little altered by valinomycin or carbonyl cyanide m-chlorophenylhydrazone. Na+/H+ exchange was inhibited by Li+ but was not affected by K+, Cl-, amiloride (1 mM), or 5-(N,N-dimethyl) amiloride (0.1 mM). Na+/H+ exchange was detected in "early" but not in "late" liver endosomes or in lysosomes. These data suggest that early rat liver endosomes exhibit Na+/H+ exchange that, immediately after endosome formation, may accelerate vesicular acidification. Because of its insensitivity to amiloride, this exchanger may be a pharmacologically altered form of Na+/H+ exchanger-1 or a new isoform.

Parathyroid hormone and parathyroid hormone-related peptide activate the Na+/H+ exchanger NHE-1 isoform in osteoblastic cells (UMR-106) via a cAMP-dependent pathway

Parathyroid hormone (PTH) and parathyroid hormone-related peptide (PTHRP) regulate Na+/H+ exchanger activity in osteoblastic cells, although the signaling components involved are not precisely defined. Since these peptide hormones can stimulate production of diverse second messengers (i.e. cAMP and diacylglycerol) that activate protein kinase A (PKA) and protein kinase C (PKC) in target cells, it is conceivable that either one or both of these pathways can participate in modulating exchanger activity. To discriminate among these possibilities, a series of synthetic PTH and PTHRP fragments were used that stimulate adenylate cyclase and/or PKC. In the osteoblastic cell line UMR-106, human PTH(1-34) and PTHRP(1-34) augmented adenylate cyclase activity, whereas PTH(3-34), PTH(28-42), and PTH(28-48) had no effect. Nevertheless, all these peptide fragments were found to enhance PKC translocation from the cytosol to the membrane in a dose-dependent (10(-11) to 10(-7) M) manner. PTHRP(1-16), a biologically inert fragment, was incapable of influencing either the PKA or PKC pathway. PTH(1-34) and PTHRP(1-34), but not PTH(3-34), PTH(28-42), PTH(28-48), or PTHRP(1-16), elevated Na+/H+ exchanger activity, implicating cAMP as the transducing signal. In accordance with this observation, forskolin (10 microM), which directly stimulates adenylate cyclase, also activated Na+/H+ exchanger activity. The involvement of PKA was verified when the highly specific PKA inhibitor, H-89, completely abolished the stimulatory effect of PTH(1-34) and forskolin on Na+/H+ exchange. In addition, Northern blot analysis revealed the presence of only the NHE-1 isoform of the Na+/H+ exchanger in UMR-106 cells. In summary, these results indicated that PTH and PTHRP activate the Na+/H+ exchanger NHE-1 isoform in osteoblastic UMR-106 cells exclusively via a cAMP-dependent pathway.

Parathyroid hormone and parathyroid hormone-related peptide inhibit the apical Na+/H+ exchanger NHE-3 isoform in renal cells (OK) via a dual signaling cascade involving protein kinase A and C

Parathyroid hormone (PTH) and parathyroid hormone-related peptide (PTHRP) interact with a common G protein-coupled receptor and stimulate production of diverse second messengers (i.e. cAMP, diacylglycerol, and inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate) that varies depending on the target cell. In renal proximal tubule OK cells, PTH inhibits the activity of the apical membrane Na+/H+ exchanger, although it is unclear whether the signal is transmitted through protein kinase A (PKA) and/or protein kinase C (PKC). To delineate the signaling circuitry, a series of synthetic PTH and PTHRP fragments were used that stimulate the adenylate cyclase-cAMP-PKA and/or phospholipase C-diacylglycerol-PKC pathways. Human PTH-(1-34) and PTHRP-(1-34) stimulated adenylate cyclase and PKC activity, whereas the PTH analogues, PTH-(3-34), PTH-(28-42), and PTH-(28-48), selectively enhanced only PKC activity. However, each peptide fragment inhibited Na+/H+ exchanger activity by 40-50%, suggesting that PKC and possibly PKA were capable of transducing the PTH/PTHRP signal to the transporter. This was corroborated when forskolin and phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA), direct agonists of adenylate cyclase and PKC, respectively, both inhibited the Na+/H+ exchanger. The specific PKA antagonist, H-89, abolished the forskolin-mediated suppression of Na+/H+ exchanger activity, but did not prevent the inhibitory effects of PTH-(1-34) or PMA. In comparison, the potent PKC inhibitor, chelerythrine chloride, prevented the inhibition of Na+/H+ exchanger activity mediated by PTH-(28-48) and PMA but did not avert the negative regulation caused by PTH-(1-34) or forskolin. However, inhibition of both PKA and PKC prevented PTH-(1-34)-mediated suppression of Na+/H+ exchanger activity, indicating that PTH-(1-34) acted through both signaling pathways. In addition, Northern blot analysis revealed the presence of only the NHE-3 isoform of the Na+/H+ exchanger in OK cells. In summary, these results demonstrated that NHE-3 is expressed in OK cells and that activation of the PTH receptor can stimulate both the PKA and PKC pathways, each of which can independently lead to inhibition of NHE-3 activity.

Mutational analysis of transmembrane histidines in the amiloride-sensitive Na+/H+ exchanger

The histidine-reactive reagent, diethyl pyrocarbonate (DEPC) inhibits the human amiloride-sensitive Na+/H+ exchanger (NHE1) in stably transfected fibroblasts. NHE1 was protected by cimetidine and amiloride from DEPC, and DEPC inhibition was reversed with hydroxylamine, suggesting a role for critical histidine groups in NHE activity. We replaced the histidines (H) in putative transmembrane domains (H35, H120, H349) with glycine (G) using site-directed mutagenesis. There was no significant change in NHE activity of the H120G; H349G; H120,349G; and H35,120,349G mutants compared with wild type. The 50% inhibition concentration values for amiloride, ethyl isopropyl amiloride (EIPA), and cimetidine of the H349G mutant were significantly increased compared with the wild-type NHE1. We also examined the DEPC effect on the transport activity of the triple histidine mutant (H35,120,349G) and found that NHE1 activity was still inhibited by DEPC with reversal by hydroxylamine and protected by amiloride and cimetidine. Kinetic analysis of DEPC inhibition indicated that two "critical" histidine residues are required for NHE transport activity. Substitutions of H349 with asparagine (N), glutamine (Q), serine (S), tyrosine (Y), valine (V), leucine (L), and phenylalanine (F) were also examined. There were no changes in NHE activity of these mutants compared with wild type. The H349G and H349L mutants became more resistant to amiloride, whereas the H349Y and H349F mutants became more sensitive to amiloride. The H349S (mimics NHE3) and H349Y (mimics NHE4) mutations had only modest effects on amiloride sensitivity. These results indicate that H349 affects the interaction of NHE1 with its inhibitors, even though substitutions at this site, per se, do not appear to explain the differences in amiloride sensitivity between different NHE isoforms. Despite clear-cut effects of the H349G mutation on the competitive interaction of NHE1 with cimetidine and EIPA, this mutation did not affect the affinity of NHE1 for its cationic substrates (Na+, Li+).

Separate C-terminal domains of the epithelial specific brush border Na+/H+ exchanger isoform NHE3 are involved in stimulation and inhibition by protein kinases/growth factors

NHE3, a cloned intestinal and renal brush border Na+/H+ exchanger, has previously been shown to be both stimulated and inhibited by different protein kinases/growth factors. For instance, NHE3 is stimulated by serum and fibroblast growth factor (FGF) and inhibited by protein kinase C. In the present study, we used a series of NHE3 C terminus truncation mutants to identify separate regions of the C-terminal cytoplasmic tail responsible for stimulation and inhibition by protein kinases/growth factors. Five NHE3 C terminus truncation mutant stable cell lines were generated by stably transfecting NHE3 deletion cDNAs into PS120 fibroblasts, which lack any endogenous Na+/H+ exchanger. Using fluorometric techniques, the effects of the calcium/calmodulin (CaM) inhibitor W13, calcium/CaM kinase inhibitor KN-62, phorbol myristate acetate, okadaic acid, FGF, and fetal bovine serum on Na+/H+ exchange were studied in these transfected cells. Inhibition of basal activity of full-length NHE3 is mediated by CaM at a site C-terminal to amino acid 756; this CaM effect occurs through both kinase dependent and independent mechanisms. There is another independent inhibitory domain for protein kinase C between amino acids 585 and 689. In addition, there are at least three stimulatory regions in the C-terminal domain of NHE3, corresponding to amino acids 509-543 for okadaic acid, 475-509 for FGF, and a region N-terminal to amino acid 475 for fetal bovine serum. We conclude that separate regions of the C terminus of NHE3 are involved with stimulation or inhibition of Na+/H+ exchange activity, with both stimulatory and inhibitory domains having several discrete subdomains. A conservative model to explain the way these multiple domains in the C terminus of NHE3 regulate Na+/H+ exchange is via an effect on associated regulatory proteins.

Amiloride and harmaline are potent inhibitors of NhaB, a Na+/H+ antiporter from Escherichia coli

The diuretic drug amiloride is a specific inhibitor of sodium transporting proteins in several cell types. Attempts to inhibit this activity in membrane vesicles derived from various bacteria, did not yield clear results. Therefore, we tested the effect of amiloride and its derivatives on the purified Na+/H+ antiporters of E. coli reconstituted in functional form in proteoliposomes. Whereas NhaA is not inhibited by amiloride, both amiloride and harmaline are potent inhibitors of NhaB with K0.5 of 6 and 15 microM, respectively. The pattern of inhibition by amiloride derivatives is different from that reported for mammalian antiporters but similar to that reported for the Na+/H+ antiporter of D. salina [Katz, A., Kleyman, T.R. and Pick, U. (1994) Biochemistry 33, 2389-2393]. Clonidine is a poor inhibitor (K0.5 = 200 microM) while cimetidine had no effect on the antiporter up to concentration of 1 mM. These new potent inhibitors provide us with important tools for the study of the mechanism of action of NhaB.

Molecular cloning and physical and genetic mapping of a novel human Na+/H+ exchanger (NHE5/SLC9A5) to chromosome 16q22.1

A human genomic clone for a novel fifth member of the Na+/H+ exchanger (NHE) family, NHE5 (gene symbol SLC9A5), has been isolated and partially sequenced. The deduced amino acid sequence of two exons, containing 154 codons, exhibits 59-73% identity to the other members of the NHE family, with closest similarity to NHE3. Northern blot analysis demonstrated that the NHE5 gene is expressed in brain, testis, spleen, and skeletal muscle. Fluorescence in situ hybridization analysis of a cosmid containing NHE5 to human metaphase chromosomes localized the NHE5 gene to the cytogenetic interval 16q21-q22. A panel of somatic cell hybrids containing various portions of chromosome 16 was used to refine further the placement of NHE5 within band 16q22.1. A polymorphic dinucleotide (GT/CA)n repeat contained in the NHE5 cosmid was identified and developed into a microsatellite PCR marker. This was typed in a subset of the CEPH (Centre d'Etude du Polymorphisme Humain) families to place it on a genetic map of the human genome. Pairwise linkage analysis of this marker showed that it was linked to marker D16S421 with a maximal lod score of 35.21 at a recombination fraction (theta) of 0.000, in complete concordance with its chromosomal localization by physical mapping. Multipoint linkage analysis placed NHE5 between the flanking markers D16S421 and D16S512. The cloning of this new member of the sodium hydrogen exchanger family, its chromosomal localization, and the discovery of a polymorphic marker for it now make it feasible to study the possible involvement of this gene in disorders of Na+/H+ transport.

Kinetics of Na+/H+ exchange in vascular smooth muscle cells from WKY and SHR: effects of phorbol ester

The kinetic properties of Na+/H+ exchange were investigated in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC) in culture from normotensive Wistar-Kyoto (WKY) and spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR). Antiport activity was measured in 2',7'-bis(carboxyethyl)-5(6)-carboxyfluorescein-loaded cells after nigericin-induced cytosolic acidification. Studies were performed without (control) and with pretreatment of the cells with phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA; 200 nM). Na+/H+ exchange markedly differed between the two strains with lower Hill coefficients [1.56 +/- 0.17 (SE) vs. 2.62 +/- 0.36] and higher maximal activity (Vmax) values (55.85 +/- 5.24 vs. 31.11 +/- 2.38 mmol H+.l-1.min-1) in SHR compared with WKY cell lines. PMA markedly altered the antiport kinetics in WKY VSMC with a decrease in the Hill coefficient (1.75 +/- 0.14) without affecting Vmax (31.88 +/- 1.55 mmol H+.l-1.min-1). In VSMC from SHR, PMA had no effect on the kinetic variables investigated. Thus two kinetic abnormalities are present with respect to Na+/H+ antiport activity in VSMC from SHR compared with WKY, i.e., increased Vmax and decreased Hill coefficient. The observation that PMA does not affect the kinetics of the Na+/H+ antiport in VSMC from SHR suggests a marked degree of antiporter prestimulation in this animal model of genetic hypertension.

Mammalian exchangers and co-transporters

In the past year, novel mammalian exchanger and co-transporter isoforms have been characterized. Specialized subdomains within these oligomeric transporters have been shown to be involved in biosynthesis, targeting, transport and regulation. Progress on the structural front has been limited due to the lack of high-resolution structures, but transport mutants responsible for disease states continue to be identified.