Benzodiazepines modulate GABAA receptors by regulating the preactivation step after GABA binding

An intersubunit electrostatic interaction in the GABAA receptor facilitates its responses to benzodiazepines

Benzodiazepines are positive allosteric modulators of the GABA_A receptor (GABA_AR), acting at the α-γ subunit interface to enhance GABA_AR function. GABA or benzodiazepine binding induces distinct conformational changes in the GABA_AR. The molecular rearrangements in the GABA_AR following benzodiazepine binding remain to be fully elucidated. Using two molecular models of the GABA_AR, we identified electrostatic interactions between specific amino acids at the α-γ subunit interface that were broken by, or formed after, benzodiazepine binding. Using two-electrode voltage clamp electrophysiology in Xenopus laevis oocytes, we investigated these interactions by substituting one or both amino acids of each potential pair. We found that Lys¹⁰⁴ in the α₁ subunit forms an electrostatic bond with Asp⁷⁵ of the γ₂ subunit after benzodiazepine binding and that this bond stabilizes the positively modified state of the receptor. Substitution of these two residues to cysteine and subsequent covalent linkage between them increased the receptor's sensitivity to low GABA concentrations and decreased its response to benzodiazepines, producing a GABA_AR that resembles a benzodiazepine-bound WT GABA_AR. Breaking this bond restored sensitivity to GABA to WT levels and increased the receptor's response to benzodiazepines. The α₁ Lys¹⁰⁴ and γ₂ Asp⁷⁵ interaction did not play a role in ethanol or neurosteroid modulation of GABA_AR, suggesting that different modulators induce different conformational changes in the receptor. These findings may help explain the additive or synergistic effects of modulators acting at the GABA_AR.

Synthesis of chiral GABAA receptor subtype selective ligands as potential agents to treat schizophrenia as well as depression

A series of novel imidazobenzodiazepine analogs of the lead chiral ligand SH-053-2'F-S-CH3 (2), an α2/α3/α5 (Bz)GABA (A)ergic receptor subtype selective ligand, which reversed PCP-induced prepulse inhibition (PPI) of acoustic startle, were synthesized. These chiral (S)-CH3 ligands are targeted for the treatment of schizophrenia and depression. These new ligands were designed by modifying the liable ester functionality in 2 to improve the metabolic stability, cytotoxicity, and activity as compared to 2. Based on the data to date, the most promising ligands are the N-cyclopropyl amide GL-I-55 (8c) and the methyl bioisostere GL-I-65 (9a). The in vitro metabolic stability, cytotoxicity and in vivo locomotor effects are described in this report. Based on these results, 8c and 9a are the most promising for further in vivo pharmacology.

Conflicting Effects of Methylglyoxal and Potential Significance of miRNAs for Seizure Treatment

According to an update from the World Health Organization, approximately 50 million people worldwide suffer from epilepsy, and nearly one-third of these individuals are resistant to the currently available antiepileptic drugs, which has resulted in an insistent pursuit of novel strategies for seizure treatment. Recently, methylglyoxal (MG) was demonstrated to serve as a partial agonist of the gamma-aminobutyric acid type A (GABA_A) receptor and to play an inhibitory role in epileptic activities. However, MG is also a substrate in the generation of advanced glycation end products (AGEs) that function by activating the receptor of AGEs (RAGE). The AGE/RAGE axis is responsible for the transduction of inflammatory cascades and appears to be an adverse pathway in epilepsy. This study systematically reviewed the significance of GABAergic MG, glyoxalase I (GLO1; responsible for enzymatic catalysis of MG cleavage) and downstream RAGE signaling in epilepsy. This work also discussed the potential of miRNAs that target multiple mRNAs and introduced a preliminary scheme for screening and validating miRNA candidates with the goal of reconciling the conflicting effects of MG for the future development of seizure treatments.

GABA Type A Receptor Activation in the Allosteric Coagonist Model Framework: Relationship between EC50 and Basal Activity

The concerted transition model for multimeric proteins is a simple formulation for analyzing the behavior of transmitter-gated ion channels. We used the model to examine the relationship between the EC50 for activation of the GABA type A (GABAA) receptor by the transmitter GABA and basal activity employing concatemeric ternary GABAA receptors expressed in Xenopus oocytes. Basal activity, reflecting the receptor function in the absence of the transmitter, can be changed either by mutation to increase constitutive activity or by the addition of a second agonist (acting at a different site) to increase background activity. The model predicts that either mechanism for producing a change in basal activity will result in identical effects on the EC50 We examined receptor activation by GABA while changing the level of basal activity with the allosterically acting anesthetics propofol, pentobarbital, or alfaxalone. We found that the relationship between EC50 and basal activity was well described by the concerted transition model. Changes in the basal activity by gain-of-function mutations also resulted in predictable changes in the EC50 Finally, we altered the number of GABA-binding sites by a mutation and again found that the relationship could be well described by the model. Overall, the results support the idea that interactions between the transmitter GABA and the allosteric agonists propofol, pentobarbital, or alfaxalone can be understood as reflecting additive and independent free energy changes, without assuming any specific interactions.

Spontaneous activity, singly bound states and the impact of alpha1Phe64 mutation on GABAAR gating in the novel kinetic model based on the single-channel recordings

GABA_A receptor is the primary mediator of inhibition in the adult mammalian brain. Our recent studies revealed that a classic gating scheme for GABA_AR needed to be updated with an intermediate step (flipping) and that the α₁Phe64 mutation at the GABA binding site affects this transition. However, description of flipping at the single-channel level remains incomplete. In particular, its role in singly-bound and spontaneous activity remains unknown. We have performed thus single-channel recordings over wide range of agonist concentration for wild-type α₁β₂γ_2L receptors and α₁Phe64 mutants. For WT receptors we observed relatively frequent brief spontaneous openings which were also present at low [GABA]. However, closed times distributions for spontaneous activity and at low [GABA] were clearly different indicating that a proportion of short-lived openings were due to liganded, most likely singly bound receptors. Increasing [GABA] resulted in prolongation of bursts and increased occurrence of bursts with long openings and short closures. Mutations of α₁Phe64 residue dramatically affected the open and closed time distributions at high and saturating [GABA], especially in the case of cysteine mutants. However, this mutation weakly affected spontaneous or singly bound activity. Model fitting of our single-channel data led us to propose a novel and, to our knowledge, most complete GABA_AR kinetic model in which flipping occurs in singly and doubly bound states. However, spontaneous activity did not reveal involvement of flipping. Moreover, we report that α₁Phe64 mutation affects not only the flipping but also the opening/closing transitions indicating its generalized impact on the receptor gating.

Short-term and long-term effects of diazepam on the memory for discrimination and generalization of scopolamine

Benzodiazepines are among the most widely prescribed and misused psychopharmaceutical drugs. Although they are well-tolerated, they are also capable of producing amnestic effects similar to those observed after pharmacological or organic cholinergic dysfunction. To date, the effect of benzodiazepine diazepam on the memory for discrimination of anticholinergic drugs has not been reported. The aim of the present study was to analyze the immediate and long-term effects of diazepam on a drug discrimination task with scopolamine. Male Wistar rats were trained to discriminate between scopolamine and saline administration using a two-lever discrimination task. Once discrimination was acquired, the subjects were divided into three independent groups, (1) control, (2) diazepam, and (3) diazepam chronic administration (10 days). Subsequently, generalization curves for scopolamine were obtained. Additionally, the diazepam and control groups were revaluated after 90 days without having been given any other treatment. The results showed that diazepam produced a significant reduction in the generalization gradient for scopolamine, indicating an impairment of discrimination. The negative effect of diazepam persisted even 90 days after drug had been administered. Meanwhile, the previous administration of diazepam for 10 days totally abated the generalization curve and the general performance of the subjects. The results suggest that diazepam affects memory for the stimulus discrimination of anticholinergic drugs and does so persistently, which could be an important consideration during the treatment of amnesic patients with benzodiazepines.

Orthosteric- versus allosteric-dependent activation of the GABAA receptor requires numerically distinct subunit level rearrangements

Anaesthetic molecules act on synaptic transmission via the allosteric modulation of ligand-gated chloride channels, such as hetero-oligomeric α₁β₂γ₂ GABA_A receptors. To elucidate the overall activation paradigm via allosteric versus orthosteric sites, we used highly homologous, but homo-oligomeric, ρ₁ receptors that are contrastingly insensitive to anaesthetics and respond partially to several full GABA α₁β₂γ₂ receptor agonists. Here, we coexpressed varying ratios of RNAs encoding the wild-type and the mutated ρ₁ subunits, which are anaesthetic-sensitive and respond with full efficacy to partial GABA agonists, to generate distinct ensembles of receptors containing five, four, three, two, one, or zero mutated subunits. Using these experiments, we then demonstrate that, in the pentamer, three anaesthetic-sensitive ρ₁ subunits are needed to impart full efficacy to the partial GABA agonists. By contrast, five anaesthetic-sensitive subunits are required for direct activation by anaesthetics alone, and only one anaesthetic-sensitive subunit is sufficient to confer the anaesthetic-dependent potentiation to the GABA current. In conclusion, our data indicate that GABA and anaesthetics holistically activate the GABA_A ρ₁ receptor through distinct subunit level rearrangements and suggest that in contrast to the global impact of GABA via orthosteric sites, the force of anaesthetics through allosteric sites may not propagate to the neighbouring subunits and, thus, may have only a local and limited effect on the ρ₁ GABA_A receptor model system.

Structural mechanisms of activation and desensitization in neurotransmitter-gated ion channels

Ion channels gated by neurotransmitters are present across metazoans, in which they are essential for brain function, sensation and locomotion; closely related homologs are also found in bacteria. Structures of eukaryotic pentameric cysteine-loop (Cys-loop) receptors and tetrameric ionotropic glutamate receptors in multiple functional states have recently become available. Here, I describe how these studies relate to established ideas regarding receptor activation and how they have enabled decades' worth of functional work to be pieced together, thus allowing previously puzzling aspects of receptor activity to be understood.

Disruption of brain MEK-ERK sequential phosphorylation and activation during midazolam-induced hypnosis in mice: Roles of GABAA receptor, MEK1 inactivation, and phosphatase MKP-3

Midazolam is a positive allosteric modulator at GABA_A receptor that induces a short hypnosis and neuroplasticity, in which the sequential phosphorylation of MEK1/2 and ERK1/2 was shown to play a role. This study investigated the parallel activation of p-MEK and p-ERK and regulatory mechanisms induced by midazolam through the stimulation of GABA_A receptors in the mouse brain. During the time course of midazolam (60mg/kg)-induced sleep in mice (lasting for about 2h) p-Ser217/221 MEK1/2 was increased (+146% to +258%) whereas, unexpectedly, p-Tyr204/Thr202 ERK1/2 was found decreased (-16% to -38%), revealing uncoupling of MEK to ERK signals in various brain regions. Midazolam-induced p-MEK1/2 upregulation was prevented by pretreatment (30min) with flumazenil (10mg/kg), indicating the involvement of GABA_A receptors. Also unexpectedly, midazolam-induced p-ERK1/2 downregulation was not prevented by flumazenil (10 or 30mg/kg). Notably, during midazolam-induced sleep the content of inactivated p-Thr286 MEK1, which can dampen ERK1/2 activation, was increased (+33% to +149%) through a mechanism sensitive to flumazenil (10mg/kg). Midazolam also increased MKP-3 (+13% to +73%) content and this upregulation was prevented by flumazenil (10mg/kg); an effect suggesting ERK inactivation because MKP-3 is the phosphatase selective for ERK1/2 dephosphorylation. The results indicate that during midazolam-induced sleep in mice there is an uncoupling of p-MEK (increased) to p-ERK (decreased) signals. p-ERK1/2 downregulation (not involving GABA_A receptors) is the result of increased inactivated MEK1 and phosphatase MKP-3 (both effects involving GABA_A receptors). These findings are relevant for the neurobiology and clinical use of benzodiazepines.

ISOLATION OF NOVEL PARA-PENTYL PHENYL BENZOATE FROM MONDIA WHITEI. (HOOK.F.) SKEELS (PERIPLOCACEAE), ITS STRUCTURE, SYNTHESIS AND NEUROPHARMACOLOGICAL EVALUATION

BACKGROUND

Mondia whitei L. (Hook. F.) Skeels (Periplocaceae) is a medicinal plant used locally in managing pain, fever, loss of appetite and as aphrodiasc in the South-Western states of Nigeria. However, the fruit is consumed habitually in the South-Eastern states of Nigeria, leading to speculation that it may possess some central nervous system effect but which has not been scientifically investigated, hence this study.

METHODOLOGY

Fresh fruits of Mondia whitei were collected and identified by a taxonomist. They were chopped into small pieces and extracted with absolute ethanol. The crude extract was subjected to various chromatographic techniques to isolate a novel compound whose structure was elucidated from the analysis of the crystal data and by extensive use of spectroscopy. The structure was confirmed by synthesis. The compound was subjected to anxiolytic and sedative activity assay. Computational analysis of the receptor binding event of isolated compound at the gamma amino butyric acid A receptor was also evaluated.

RESULTS

The structure of the compound was elucidated as para pentyl phenyl benzoate. The neuropharmacological evaluation of the compound indicated significant (p<0.05) depression of the central nervous system. The binding characteristics of the compound to gamma amino butyric acid A receptors appears to be more favorable than those obtained for gamma amino butyric acid, chlorpromazine, benzamidine, and is comparable with the affinity obtained for pentobarbitone and diazepam.

CONCLUSION

These present data provide evidence for the role of para pentyl phenyl benzoate in the habitual consumption of the fruit as well as its central nervous system activities.

To what extent is it possible to dissociate the anxiolytic and sedative/hypnotic properties of GABAA receptors modulators?

The relatively common view indicates a possible dissociation between the anxiolytic and sedative/hypnotic properties of benzodiazepines (BZs). Indeed, GABAA receptor (GABAAR) subtypes have specific cerebral distribution in distinct neural circuits. Thus, GABAAR subtype-selective drugs may be expected to perform distinct functions. However, standard behavioral test assays provide limited direction towards highlighting new action mechanisms of ligands targeting GABAARs. Automated behavioral tests, lack sensitivity as some behavioral characteristics or subtle behavioral changes of drug effects or that are not considered in the overall analysis (Ohl et al., 2001) and observation-based analyses are not always performed. In addition, despite the use of genetically engineered mice, any possible dissociation between the anxiolytic and sedative properties of BZs remains controversial. Moreover, the involvement the different subtypes of GABAAR subtypes in the anxious behavior and the mechanism of action of anxiolytic agents remains unclear since there has been little success in the pharmacological investigations so far. This raises the question of the involvement of the different subunits in anxiolytic-like and/or sedative effects; and the actual implication of these subunits, particularly, α-subunits in the modulation of sedation and/or anxiety-related disorders. This present review was prompted by several conflicting studies on the degree of involvement of these subunits in anxiolytic-like and/or sedative effects. To this end, we explored the GABAergic system, particularly, the role of different subunits containing synaptic GABAARs. We report herein the targeting gene encoding the different subunits and their contribution in anxiolytic-like and/or sedative actions, as well as, the mechanism underlying tolerance to BZs.

Benzodiazepine Use Attenuates Cortical β-Amyloid and is Not Associated with Progressive Cognitive Decline in Nondemented Elderly Adults: A Pilot Study Using F18-Florbetapir Positron Emission Tomography

OBJECTIVE

It is inconclusive as to whether benzodiazepines (BZDs) are related to cognitive deterioration in the elderly populations. Animal studies suggest that γ-aminobutyric acid A receptor agonists, such as BZDs, may prevent Aβ-neurotoxicity and reduce β-amyloid (Aβ). However, no studies have investigated the effects of BZD use on Aβ in humans.

METHODS

This cross-sectional, prospective study using Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative sites in the United States and Canada on nondemented elderly adults between 55 and 90 years of age assessed cortical Aβ levels by positron emission tomography radiotracer F¹⁸-Florbetapir. Changes in global cognitive function and verbal memory performance over 2 years were assessed using scores on Montreal Cognitive Assessment and five domains of Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test, respectively.

RESULTS

Previous BZD users (N = 15) had lower cortical Aβ levels in frontal (F(1, 26) = 8.82, p = 0.006), cingulate (F(1, 26) = 8.58, p = 0.007), parietal (F(1, 26) = 7.31, p = 0.012), and temporal (F(1, 26) = 7.67, p = 0.010) regions compared with matched BZD nonusers (N = 15), after controlling for history of psychiatric disorders and antidepressant use. Also, no differences were found in global cognitive function and changes in cortical Aβ over 2 years between continuous BZD users (N = 15) andthe matched nonuser group (N = 15).

CONCLUSION

Previous BZD use was associated with lower cortical Aβ levels in nondemented elderly control subjects. Future studies with larger samples are required to replicate our findings.

Ligand Binding at the 4-4 Agonist-Binding Site of the 42 nAChR Triggers Receptor Activation through a Pre-Activated Conformational State

The α4β2 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) is the most abundant subtype in the brain and exists in two functional stoichiometries: (α4)₃(β2)₂ and (α4)₂(β2)₃. A distinct feature of the (α4)₃(β2)₂ receptor is the biphasic activation response to the endogenous agonist acetylcholine, where it is activated with high potency and low efficacy when two α4-β2 binding sites are occupied and with low potency/high efficacy when a third α4-α4 binding site is occupied. Further, exogenous ligands can bind to the third α4-α4 binding site and potentiate the activation of the receptor by ACh that is bound at the two α4-β2 sites. We propose that perturbations of the recently described pre-activation step when a third binding site is occupied are a key driver of these distinct activation properties. To investigate this, we used a combination of simple linear kinetic models and voltage clamp electrophysiology to determine whether transitions into the pre-activated state were increased when three binding sites were occupied. We separated the binding at the two different sites with ligands selective for the α4-β2 site (Sazetidine-A and TC-2559) and the α4-α4 site (NS9283) and identified that when a third binding site was occupied, changes in the concentration-response curves were best explained by an increase in transitions into a pre-activated state. We propose that perturbations of transitions into a pre-activated state are essential to explain the activation properties of the (α4)₃(β2)₂ receptor by acetylcholine and other ligands. Considering the widespread clinical use of benzodiazepines, this discovery of a conserved mechanism that benzodiazepines and ACh potentiate receptor activation via a third binding site can be exploited to develop therapeutics with similar properties at other cys-loop receptors.

Context-Dependent Modulation of GABAAR-Mediated Tonic Currents

Tonic GABA currents mediated by high-affinity extrasynaptic GABAA receptors, are increasingly recognized as important regulators of cell and neuronal network excitability. Dysfunctional GABAA receptor signaling that results in modified tonic GABA currents is associated with a number of neurological disorders. Consequently, developing compounds to selectively modulate the activity of extrasynaptic GABAA receptors underlying tonic inhibition is likely to prove therapeutically useful. Here, we examine the GABAA receptor subtype selectivity of the weak partial agonist, 5-(4-piperidyl)isoxazol-3-ol (4-PIOL), as a potential mechanism for modulating extrasynaptic GABAA receptor-mediated tonic currents. By using recombinant GABAA receptors expressed in HEK293 cells, and native GABAA receptors of cerebellar granule cells, hippocampal neurons, and thalamic relay neurons, 4-PIOL evidently displayed differential agonist and antagonist-type profiles, depending on the extrasynaptic GABAA receptor isoforms targeted. For neurons, this resulted in differential modulation of GABA tonic currents, depending on the cell type studied, their respective GABAA receptor subunit compositions, and critically, on the ambient GABA levels. Unexpectedly, 4-PIOL revealed a significant population of relatively low-affinity γ2 subunit-containing GABAA receptors in the thalamus, which can contribute to tonic inhibition under specific conditions when GABA levels are raised. Together, these data indicate that partial agonists, such as 4-PIOL, may be useful for modulating GABAA receptor-mediated tonic currents, but the direction and extent of this modulation is strongly dependent on relative expression levels of different extrasynaptic GABAA receptor subtypes, and on the ambient GABA levels.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT

A background level of inhibition (tonic) is important in the brain for controlling neuronal excitability. Increased levels of tonic inhibition are associated with some neurological disorders but there are no specific ligands capable of selectively reducing tonic inhibition. Here we explore the use of a GABA partial agonist as a selective chemical tool in three different brain regions. We discover that the activity of a partial agonist is heavily dependent upon the GABAA receptor subunit composition underpinning tonic inhibition, and on the ambient levels of GABA in the brain.

Structure and dynamics underlying elementary ligand binding events in human pacemaking channels

Although molecular recognition is crucial for cellular signaling, mechanistic studies have relied primarily on ensemble measures that average over and thereby obscure underlying steps. Single-molecule observations that resolve these steps are lacking due to diffraction-limited resolution of single fluorophores at relevant concentrations. Here, we combined zero-mode waveguides with fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) to directly observe binding at individual cyclic nucleotide-binding domains (CNBDs) from human pacemaker ion channels critical for heart and brain function. Our observations resolve the dynamics of multiple distinct steps underlying cyclic nucleotide regulation: a slow initial binding step that must select a 'receptive' conformation followed by a ligand-induced isomerization of the CNBD. X-ray structure of the apo CNBD and atomistic simulations reveal that the isomerization involves both local and global transitions. Our approach reveals fundamental mechanisms underpinning ligand regulation of pacemaker channels, and is generally applicable to weak-binding interactions governing a broad spectrum of signaling processes.

Activation-induced regulation of GABAA receptors: Is there a link with the molecular basis of benzodiazepine tolerance?

Benzodiazepines have been used clinically for more than 50 years to treat disorders such as insomnia, anxiety, and epilepsy, as well as to aid muscle relaxation and anesthesia. The therapeutic index for benzodiazepines if very high and the toxicity is low. However, their usefulness is limited by the development of either or both tolerance to most of their pharmacological actions and dependence. Tolerance develops at different rates depending on the pharmacological action, suggesting the existence of distinct mechanisms for each behavioral parameter. Alternatively, multiple mechanisms could coexist depending on the subtype of GABAA receptor expressed and the brain region involved. Because most of the pharmacological actions of benzodiazepines are mediated through GABAA receptor binding, adaptive alterations in the number, structure, and/or functions of these receptors may play an important role in the development of tolerance. This review is focused on the regulation of GABAA receptors induced by long-term benzodiazepine exposure and its relationship with the development of tolerance. Understanding the mechanisms behind benzodiazepine tolerance is critical for designing drugs that could maintain their efficacy during long-term treatments.

α2-containing GABA(A) receptors: a requirement for midazolam-escalated aggression and social approach in mice

RATIONALE

Benzodiazepines (BZDs) are prescribed to reduce anxiety, agitation, and muscle spasms and for their sedative-hypnotic and anticonvulsant effects. Under specific conditions, BZDs escalate aggression in some individuals. Specific effects of BZDs have been linked to the α-subunit subtype composition of GABAA receptors.

OBJECTIVES

Point-mutated mice rendered selectively insensitive to BZDs at α1-, α2-, or α3-containing GABAA receptors were used to determine which α-subunit subtypes are necessary for BZDs to escalate aggression and social approach and to reduce fear-motivated behavior.

METHODS

During resident-intruder confrontations, male wild-type (WT) and point-mutated α1(H101R), α2(H101R), and α3(H126R) mice were treated with midazolam (0-1.7 mg/kg, i.p.) and evaluated for aggression in an unfamiliar environment. Separate midazolam-treated WT and point-mutated mice were assessed for social approach toward a female or investigated in a 6-day fear-potentiated startle procedure.

RESULTS

Moderate doses of midazolam (0.3-0.56 mg/kg, i.p.) escalated aggression in WT and α3(H126R) mutants and increased social approach in WT and α1(H101R) mice. The highest dose of midazolam (1.0 mg/kg) reduced fear-potentiated startle responding. All mice were sensitive to the sedative effect of midazolam (1.7 mg/kg) except α1(H101R) mutants.

CONCLUSIONS

Midazolam requires BZD-sensitive α1- and α2-containing GABAA receptors in order to escalate aggression and α2- and α3-containing receptors to reduce social anxiety-like behavior. GABAA receptors containing the α1-subunit are crucial for BZD-induced sedation, while α2-containing GABAA receptors may be a shared site of action for the pro-aggressive and anxiolytic effects of BZDs.

A nonequilibrium binary elements-based kinetic model for benzodiazepine regulation of GABAA receptors

A nonequilibrium kinetic model that explicitly treats the energetics of interactions between structural domains is used to describe positive modulation of the GABA_A receptor by benzodiazepines.

Ion channels, like many other proteins, are composed of multiple structural domains. A stimulus that impinges on one domain, such as binding of a ligand to its recognition site, can influence the activity of another domain, such as a transmembrane channel gate, through interdomain interactions. Kinetic schemes that describe the function of interacting domains typically incorporate a minimal number of states and transitions, and do not explicitly model interactions between domains. Here, we develop a kinetic model of the GABA_A receptor, a ligand-gated ion channel modulated by numerous compounds including benzodiazepines, a class of drugs used clinically as sedatives and anxiolytics. Our model explicitly treats both the kinetics of distinct functional domains within the receptor and the interactions between these domains. The model describes not only how benzodiazepines that potentiate GABA_A receptor activity, such as diazepam, affect peak current dose–response relationships in the presence of desensitization, but also their effect on the detailed kinetics of current activation, desensitization, and deactivation in response to various stimulation protocols. Finally, our model explains positive modulation by benzodiazepines of receptor currents elicited by either full or partial agonists, and can resolve conflicting observations arguing for benzodiazepine modulation of agonist binding versus channel gating.

Advances in the pharmacology of lGICs auxiliary subunits

Ligand-gated ion channels (LGICs) are cell surface integral proteins that mediate the fast neurotransmission in the nervous system. LGICs require auxiliary subunits for their trafficking, assembly and pharmacological modulation. Auxiliary subunits do not form functional homomeric receptors, but are reported to assemble with the principal subunits in order to modulate their pharmacological profiles. For example, nACh receptors are built at least by co-assemble of α and β subunits, and the neuronal auxiliary subunits β3 and α5 and muscle type β, δ, γ, and ϵ determine the agonist affinity of these receptors. Serotonergic 5-HT3B, 5-HT3C, 5-HT3D and 5-HT3E are reported to assemble with the 5-HT3A subunit to modulate its pharmacological profile. Functional studies evaluating the role of γ2 and δ auxiliary subunits of GABAA receptors have made important advances in the understanding of the action of benzodiazepines, ethanol and neurosteroids. Glycine receptors are composed principally by α1-3 subunits and the auxiliary subunit β determines their synaptic location and their pharmacological response to propofol and ethanol. NMDA receptors appear to be functional as heterotetrameric channels. So far, the existence of NMDA auxiliary subunits is controversial. On the other hand, Kainate receptors are modulated by NETO 1 and 2. AMPA receptors are modulated by TARPs, Shisa 9, CKAMP44, CNIH2-3 auxiliary proteins reported that controls their trafficking, conductance and gating of channels. P2X receptors are able to associate with auxiliary Pannexin-1 protein to modulate P2X7 receptors. Considering the pharmacological relevance of different LGICs auxiliary subunits in the present work we will highlight the therapeutic potential of these modulator proteins.

A Multifaceted GABAA Receptor Modulator: Functional Properties and Mechanism of Action of the Sedative-Hypnotic and Recreational Drug Methaqualone (Quaalude)

In the present study, we have elucidated the functional characteristics and mechanism of action of methaqualone (2-methyl-3-o-tolyl-4(3H)-quinazolinone, Quaalude), an infamous sedative-hypnotic and recreational drug from the 1960s-1970s. Methaqualone was demonstrated to be a positive allosteric modulator at human α1,2,3,5β2,3γ2S GABAA receptors (GABAARs) expressed in Xenopus oocytes, whereas it displayed highly diverse functionalities at the α4,6β1,2,3δ GABAAR subtypes, ranging from inactivity (α4β1δ), through negative (α6β1δ) or positive allosteric modulation (α4β2δ, α6β2,3δ), to superagonism (α4β3δ). Methaqualone did not interact with the benzodiazepine, barbiturate, or neurosteroid binding sites in the GABAAR. Instead, the compound is proposed to act through the transmembrane β((+))/α((-)) subunit interface of the receptor, possibly targeting a site overlapping with that of the general anesthetic etomidate. The negligible activities displayed by methaqualone at numerous neurotransmitter receptors and transporters in an elaborate screening for additional putative central nervous system (CNS) targets suggest that it is a selective GABAAR modulator. The mode of action of methaqualone was further investigated in multichannel recordings from primary frontal cortex networks, where the overall activity changes induced by the compound at 1-100 μM concentrations were quite similar to those mediated by other CNS depressants. Finally, the free methaqualone concentrations in the mouse brain arising from doses producing significant in vivo effects in assays for locomotion and anticonvulsant activity correlated fairly well with its potencies as a modulator at the recombinant GABAARs. Hence, we propose that the multifaceted functional properties exhibited by methaqualone at GABAARs give rise to its effects as a therapeutic and recreational drug.

Zolpidem and eszopiclone prime α1β2γ2 GABAA receptors for longer duration of activity

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

GABAA receptors mediate neuronal inhibition in the brain. They are the primary targets for benzodiazepines, which are widely used to treat neurological disorders including anxiety, epilepsy and insomnia. The mechanism by which benzodiazepines enhance GABAA receptor activity has been extensively studied, but there is little mechanistic information on how non-benzodiazepine drugs that bind to the same site exert their effects. Eszopiclone and zolpidem are two non-benzodiazepine drugs for which no mechanism of action has yet been proposed, despite their clinical importance as sleeping aids. Here we investigate how both drugs enhance the activity of α1β2γ2 GABAA receptors.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

We used rapid ligand application onto macropatches and single-channel kinetic analysis to assess rates of current deactivation. We also studied synaptic currents in primary neuronal cultures and in heterosynapses, whereby native GABAergic nerve terminals form synapses with HEK293 cells expressing α1β2γ2 GABAA receptors. Drug binding and modulation was quantified with the aid of an activation mechanism.

KEY RESULTS

At the single-channel level, the drugs prolonged the duration of receptor activation, with similar KD values of ∼80 nM. Channel activation was prolonged primarily by increasing the equilibrium constant between two connected shut states that precede channel opening.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

As the derived mechanism successfully simulated the effects of eszopiclone and zolpidem on ensemble currents, we propose it as the definitive mechanism accounting for the effects of both drugs. Importantly, eszopiclone and zolpidem enhanced GABAA receptor currents via a mechanism that differs from that proposed for benzodiazepines.

The desensitization gate of inhibitory Cys-loop receptors

Cys-loop neurotransmitter-gated ion channels are vital for communication throughout the nervous system. Following activation, these receptors enter into a desensitized state in which the ion channel shuts even though the neurotransmitter molecules remain bound. To date, the molecular determinants underlying this most fundamental property of Cys-loop receptors have remained elusive. Here we present a generic mechanism for the desensitization of Cys-loop GABAA (GABAARs) and glycine receptors (GlyRs), which both mediate fast inhibitory synaptic transmission. Desensitization is regulated by interactions between the second and third transmembrane segments, which affect the ion channel lumen near its intracellular end. The GABAAR and GlyR pore blocker picrotoxin prevented desensitization, consistent with its deep channel-binding site overlapping a physical desensitization gate.

Pharmacological characterisation of murine α4β1δ GABAA receptors expressed in Xenopus oocytes

Background

GABA_A receptor subunit composition has a profound effect on the receptor’s physiological and pharmacological properties. The receptor β subunit is widely recognised for its importance in receptor assembly, trafficking and post-translational modifications, but its influence on extrasynaptic GABA_A receptor function is less well understood. Here, we examine the pharmacological properties of a potentially native extrasynaptic GABA_A receptor that incorporates the β1 subunit, specifically composed of α4β1δ and α4β1 subunits.

Results

GABA activated concentration-dependent responses at α4β1δ and α4β1 receptors with EC₅₀ values in the nanomolar to micromolar range, respectively. The divalent cations Zn²⁺ and Cu²⁺, and the β1-selective inhibitor salicylidine salicylhydrazide (SCS), inhibited GABA-activated currents at α4β1δ receptors. Surprisingly the α4β1 receptor demonstrated biphasic sensitivity to Zn²⁺ inhibition that may reflect variable subunit stoichiometries with differing sensitivity to Zn²⁺. The neurosteroid tetrahydro-deoxycorticosterone (THDOC) significantly increased GABA-initiated responses in concentrations above 30 nM for α4β1δ receptors.

Conclusions

With this study we report the first pharmacological characterisation of various GABA_A receptor ligands acting at murine α4β1δ GABA_A receptors, thereby improving our understanding of the molecular pharmacology of this receptor isoform. This study highlights some notable differences in the pharmacology of murine and human α4β1δ receptors. We consider the likelihood that the α4β1δ receptor may play a role as an extrasynaptic GABA_A receptor in the nervous system.

GABAergic transmission to kisspeptin neurons is differentially regulated by time of day and estradiol in female mice

Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) secretion is regulated by estradiol feedback. This feedback switches from negative to positive in females; this switch depends on time of day in many species. Estradiol feedback is likely conveyed via afferents. Kisspeptin neurons of the arcuate nucleus and anteroventral-periventricular region (AVPV) may differentially regulate GnRH neurons during negative and positive feedback, respectively. We tested estradiol and time of day regulation of GABAergic transmission and postsynaptic response to GABA in these two populations using transgenic mice with GFP-identified kisspeptin neurons. Ovariectomized (OVX) mice treated or not with estradiol (E) were studied in the AM (negative feedback) or PM (positive feedback). GABAA receptor reversal potential was unaffected by time of day or estradiol. GABA depolarized the membrane potential of arcuate neurons from OVX+E mice; this response was blunted in cells from OVX mice. GABA hyperpolarized AVPV kisspeptin neurons, except in the OVX PM group in which GABA did not alter membrane potential attributable to a PM hyperpolarization of baseline membrane potential. In both kisspeptin neuron populations from OVX mice, the frequency of GABAergic spontaneous postsynaptic currents was increased in the PM; this increase was blunted by estradiol. In arcuate, but not AVPV, kisspeptin neurons, estradiol reduced miniature postsynaptic current amplitude independent of time of day. Using nonstationary fluctuation analysis and diazepam to manipulate GABAA receptor apparent affinity, the decrease in arcuate miniature postsynaptic current amplitude was attributed to decreased number of receptors bound by GABA. Time of day and estradiol feedback thus both target presynaptic and postsynaptic mechanisms to differentially regulate kisspeptin neurons via GABAergic transmission.

LY293558 prevents soman-induced pathophysiological alterations in the basolateral amygdala and the development of anxiety

Exposure to nerve agents can cause brain damage due to prolonged seizure activity, producing long-term behavioral deficits. We have previously shown that LY293558, a GluK1/AMPA receptor antagonist, is a very effective anticonvulsant and neuroprotectant against nerve agent exposure. In the present study, we examined whether the protection against nerve agent-induced seizures and neuropathology conferred by LY293558 translates into protection against pathophysiological alterations in the basolateral amygdala (BLA) and the development of anxiety, which is the most prevalent behavioral deficit resulting from exposure. LY293558 (15 mg/kg) was administered to rats, along with atropine and HI-6, at 20 min after exposure to soman (1.2 × LD50). At 24 h, 7 days, and 30 days after exposure, soman-exposed rats who did not receive LY293558 had reduced but prolonged evoked field potentials in the BLA, as well as increased paired-pulse ratio, suggesting neuronal damage and impaired synaptic inhibition; rats who received LY293558 did not differ from controls in these parameters. Long-term potentiation of synaptic transmission was impaired at 7 days after exposure in the soman-exposed rats who did not receive anticonvulsant treatment, but not in the LY293558-treated rats. Anxiety-like behavior assessed by the open field and acoustic startle response tests was increased in the soman-exposed rats at 30 and 90 days after exposure, while rats treated with LY293558 did not differ from controls. Along with our previous findings, the present data demonstrate the remarkable efficacy of LY293558 in counteracting nerve agent-induced seizures, neuropathology, pathophysiological alterations in the BLA, and anxiety-related behavioral deficits.

The limitations of diazepam as a treatment for nerve agent-induced seizures and neuropathology in rats: comparison with UBP302

Exposure to nerve agents induces prolonged status epilepticus (SE), causing brain damage or death. Diazepam (DZP) is the current US Food and Drug Administration-approved drug for the cessation of nerve agent-induced SE. Here, we compared the efficacy of DZP with that of UBP302 [(S)-3-(2-carboxybenzyl)willardiine; an antagonist of the kainate receptors that contain the GluK1 subunit] against seizures, neuropathology, and behavioral deficits induced by soman in rats. DZP, administered 1 hour or 2 hours postexposure, terminated the SE, but seizures returned; thus, the total duration of SE within 24 hours after soman exposure was similar to (DZP at 1 hour) or longer than (DZP at 2 hours) that in the soman-exposed rats that did not receive the anticonvulsant. Compared with DZP, UBP302 stopped SE with a slower time course, but dramatically reduced the total duration of SE within 24 hours. Neuropathology and behavior were assessed in the groups that received anticonvulsant treatment 1 hour after exposure. UBP302, but not DZP, reduced neuronal degeneration in a number of brain regions, as well as neuronal loss in the basolateral amygdala and the CA1 hippocampal area, and prevented interneuronal loss in the basolateral amygdala. Anxiety-like behavior was assessed in the open field and by the acoustic startle response 30 days after soman exposure. The results showed that anxiety-like behavior was increased in the DZP-treated group and in the group that did not receive anticonvulsant treatment, but not in the UBP302-treated group. The results argue against the use of DZP for the treatment of nerve agent-induced seizures and brain damage and suggest that targeting GluK1-containing receptors is a more effective approach.

Plurality of anxiety and depression alteration mechanism by oleanolic acid

Our study sought to evaluate the anxiolytic and antidepressant activities of oleanolic acid as well as the neural mechanisms involved. Animal models such as barbiturate sleep-induction, light-dark box, elevated plus maze, forced swimming test, tail suspension test and open field test were conducted. Male Albino Swiss mice were treated orally with vehicle 10 mL/kg, fluoxetine 20 mg/kg, imipramine 15 mg/kg, diazepam 1 mg/kg or oleanolic acid 5-40 mg/kg. Pretreatment (intraperitoneal) of animals with pentylenetetrazole (PTZ) 20 mg/kg, 1-(2-methoxyphenyl)-4-[4- (2-phthalimido) butyl]piperazine hydrobromide (NAN-190) 0.5 mg/kg, p-chlorophenylalanine methyl ester (PCPA) 100 mg/kg or α-methyl-p-tyrosine (AMPT) 100 mg/kg, WAY100635 (WAY) 0.3 mg/kg, prazosin (PRAZ) 1 mg/kg, yohimbine 2 mg/kg as well as monoamine oxidase assay and hippocampal brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) quantification were carried out. Oleanolic acid potentiated the hypnotic effect of barbiturate and demonstrated an anxiolytic effect in both the light-dark box and elevated plus maze. This effect was not reversed by PTZ. Acute and/or chronic oral treatment of mice with oleanolic acid (5-20 mg/kg) elicited an antidepressant effect in the forced swimming test and the tail suspension test without interfering with the locomotor activity. The antidepressant effect of oleanolic acid was attenuated by NAN-190, AMPT, PCPA, WAY and PRAZ. Although monoamine oxidase activity remained unaltered by oleanolic acid, chronic administration of oleanolic acid augmented hippocampal BDNF level. These findings demonstrate multiple mechanisms of the anxiolytic and antidepressant effect of oleanolic acid.

Benzodiazepine modulation of homomeric GABAAρ1 receptors: differential effects of diazepam and 4'-chlorodiazepam

GABA(A) receptors (GABA(A)Rs) are ligand-gated ion channels that mediate inhibitory neurotransmission in the central nervous system (CNS). They are members of the Cys-loop receptor family and display marked structural and functional heterogeneity. Many GABA(A)Rs receptor subtypes are allosterically modulated by benzodiazepines (BDZs), which are drugs extensively used as anxiolytics, sedative-hypnotics and anticonvulsants. One high-affinity site and at least three additional low-affinity sites for BDZ recognition have been identified in several heteromeric and homomeric variants of the GABA(A)Rs (e.g.: α1β2γ2, α1β2/3, β3, etc.). However, the modulation of homomeric GABA(A)ρRs by BDZs was not previously revealed, and these receptors, for a long a time, were assumed to be fully insensitive to the actions of these drugs. In the present study, human homomeric GABA(A)ρ1 receptors were expressed in Xenopus oocytes and GABA-evoked responses electrophysiologically recorded in the presence or absence of BDZs. GABA(A)ρ1 receptor-mediated responses were modulated by diazepam and 4'-chlorodiazepam in the micromolar range, in a concentration-dependent, voltage-independent and reversible manner. Diazepam produced potentiating effects on GABA-evoked Cl(-) currents and 4'-Cl diazepam induced biphasic effects depending on the GABA concentration, whereas Ro15-4513 and alprazolam were negative modulators. BDZ actions were insensitive to flumazenil. Other BDZs showed negligible activity at equivalent experimental conditions. Our results suggest that GABA(A)ρ1 receptor function can be selectively and differentially modulated by BDZs.

Benzodiazepine ligands rapidly influence GABAA receptor diffusion and clustering at hippocampal inhibitory synapses

Benzodiazepines (BZDs) are widely used in the treatment of a variety of neurological and psychiatric conditions including anxiety, insomnia and epilepsy. BZDs are thought to act predominantly by affecting the gating of GABAA receptor channels, resulting in enhanced GABA-mediated currents in neurons. However, mutations mimicking the effect of BZDs on GABAAR channel gating have been shown to also impact the membrane dynamics and synaptic anchoring of the receptors. Here, using single molecule tracking combined with electrophysiological recordings, we show that BZD ligands rapidly influence the dynamic behavior of GABAARs in hippocampal neurons. Application of the inverse BZD agonist DMCM rapidly increased the diffusion and reduced the clustering of GABAARs at synapses, resulting in reduced postsynaptic currents. Conversely, the BZD full agonist diazepam had little effect at rest but reduced lateral diffusion and increased synaptic stabilization and clustering of GABAARs upon sustained neuronal activity, resulting in enhanced potency of inhibitory synapses. These effects occurred in the absence of detectable changes in gephyrin clusters, suggesting they did not reflect a rapid dispersion of the synaptic scaffold. Thus, alterations of the diffusion and synaptic anchoring of GABAARs represent a novel, unsuspected mechanism through which BZDs rapidly modulate GABA signaling in central neurons.

Actions of agonists, fipronil and ivermectin on the predominant in vivo splice and edit variant (RDLbd, I/V) of the Drosophila GABA receptor expressed in Xenopus laevis oocytes

Ionotropic GABA receptors are the targets for several classes of insecticides. One of the most widely-studied insect GABA receptors is RDL (resistance to dieldrin), originally isolated from Drosophila melanogaster. RDL undergoes alternative splicing and RNA editing, which influence the potency of GABA. Most work has focussed on minority isoforms. Here, we report the first characterisation of the predominant native splice variant and RNA edit, combining functional characterisation with molecular modelling of the agonist-binding region. The relative order of agonist potency is GABA> muscimol> TACA> β-alanine. The I/V edit does not alter the potency of GABA compared to RDLbd. Docking calculations suggest that these agonists bind and activate RDLbdI/V through a similar binding mode. TACA and β-alanine are predicted to bind with lower affinity than GABA, potentially explaining their lower potency, whereas the lower potency of muscimol and isoguvacine cannot be explained structurally from the docking calculations. The A301S (resistance to dieldrin) mutation reduced the potency of antagonists picrotoxin, fipronil and pyrafluprole but the I/V edit had no measurable effect. Ivermectin suppressed responses to GABA of RDLbdI/V, RDLbd and RDLbdI/VA301S. The dieldrin resistant variant also showed reduced sensitivity to Ivermectin. This study of a highly abundant insect GABA receptor isoform will help the design of new insecticides.

α1F64 Residue at GABA(A) receptor binding site is involved in gating by influencing the receptor flipping transitions

GABA receptors (GABAARs) mediate inhibition in the adult brain. These channels are heteropentamers and their ligand binding sites are localized at the β+ / α- interfaces. As expected, mutations of binding-site residues affect binding kinetics but accumulating evidence indicates that gating is also altered, although the underlying mechanisms are unclear. We investigated the impact of the hydrophobic box residue localized at α1(-), F64 (α1F64), on the binding and gating of rat recombinant α1β1γ2 receptors. The analysis of current responses to rapid agonist applications confirmed a marked effect of α1F64 mutations on agonist binding and revealed surprisingly strong effects on gating, including the disappearance of rapid desensitization, the slowing of current onset, and accelerated deactivation. Moreover, nonstationary variance analysis revealed that the α1F64C mutation dramatically reduced the maximum open probability without altering channel conductance. Interestingly, for wild-type receptors, responses to saturating concentration of a partial agonist, P4S, showed no rapid desensitization, similar to GABA-evoked responses mediated by α1F64C mutants. For the α1F64L mutation, the application of the high-affinity agonist muscimol partially rescued rapid desensitization compared with responses evoked by GABA. These findings suggest that α1F64 mutations do not disrupt desensitization mechanisms but rather affect other gating features that obscure it. Model simulations indicated that all of our observations related to α1F64 mutations could be properly reproduced by altering the flipped state transitions that occurred after agonist binding but preceded opening. In conclusion, we propose that the α1F64 residue may participate in linking binding and gating by influencing flipping kinetics.

GABAergic synapses: their plasticity and role in sensory cortex

The mammalian neocortex is composed of a variety of cell types organized in a highly interconnected circuit. GABAergic neurons account for only about 20% of cortical neurons. However, they show widespread connectivity and a high degree of diversity in morphology, location, electrophysiological properties and gene expression. In addition, distinct populations of inhibitory neurons have different sensory response properties, capacities for plasticity and sensitivities to changes in sensory experience. In this review we summarize experimental evidence regarding the properties of GABAergic neurons in primary sensory cortex. We will discuss how distinct GABAergic neurons and different forms of GABAergic inhibitory plasticity may contribute to shaping sensory cortical circuit activity and function.

GABAA receptor α and γ subunits shape synaptic currents via different mechanisms

Synaptic GABAA receptors (GABAARs) mediate most of the inhibitory neurotransmission in the brain. The majority of these receptors are comprised of α1, β2, and γ2 subunits. The amygdala, a structure involved in processing emotional stimuli, expresses α2 and γ1 subunits at high levels. The effect of these subunits on GABAAR-mediated synaptic transmission is not known. Understanding the influence of these subunits on GABAAR-mediated synaptic currents may help in identifying the roles and locations of amygdala synapses that contain these subunits. Here, we describe the biophysical and synaptic properties of pure populations of α1β2γ2, α2β2γ2, α1β2γ1 and α2β2γ1 GABAARs. Their synaptic properties were examined in engineered synapses, whereas their kinetic properties were studied using rapid agonist application, and single channel recordings. All macropatch currents activated rapidly (<1 ms) and deactivated as a function of the α-subunit, with α2-containing GABAARs consistently deactivating ∼10-fold more slowly. Single channel analysis revealed that the slower current decay of α2-containing GABAARs was due to longer burst durations at low GABA concentrations, corresponding to a ∼4-fold higher affinity for GABA. Synaptic currents revealed a different pattern of activation and deactivation to that of macropatch data. The inclusion of α2 and γ1 subunits slowed both the activation and deactivation rates, suggesting that receptors containing these subunits cluster more diffusely at synapses. Switching the intracellular domains of the γ2 and γ1 subunits substantiated this inference. Because this region determines post-synaptic localization, we hypothesize that GABAARs containing γ1 and γ2 use different mechanisms for synaptic clustering.

The benzodiazepine diazepam potentiates responses of α1β2γ2L γ-aminobutyric acid type A receptors activated by either γ-aminobutyric acid or allosteric agonists

BACKGROUND

The γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) type A receptor is a target for several anesthetics, anticonvulsants, anxiolytics, and sedatives. Neurosteroids, barbiturates, and etomidate both potentiate responses to GABA and allosterically activate the receptor. We examined the ability of a benzodiazepine, diazepam, to potentiate responses to allosteric agonists.

METHODS

The GABA type A receptors were expressed in human embryonic kidney 293 cells and studied using whole-cell and single-channel patch clamp. The receptors were activated by the orthosteric agonist GABA and allosteric agonists pentobarbital, etomidate, and alfaxalone.

RESULTS

Diazepam is equally potent at enhancing responses to orthosteric and allosteric agonists. Diazepam EC50s were 25 ± 4, 26 ± 6, 33 ± 6, and 26 ± 3 nm for receptors activated by GABA, pentobarbital, etomidate, and alfaxalone, respectively (mean ± SD, 5-6 cells at each condition). Mutations to the benzodiazepine-binding site (α1(H101C), γ2(R144C), γ2(R197C)) reduced or removed potentiation for all agonists, and an inverse agonist at the benzodiazepine site reduced responses to all agonists. Single-channel data elicited by GABA demonstrate that in the presence of 1 μm diazepam the prevalence of the longest open-time component is increased from 13 ± 7 (mean ± SD, n = 5 patches) to 27 ± 8% (n = 3 patches) and the rate of channel closing is decreased from 129 ± 28 s(-1) to 47 ± 6 s(-1) (mean ± SD) CONCLUSIONS: We conclude that benzodiazepines do not act by enhancing affinity of the orthosteric site for GABA but rather by increasing channel gating efficacy. The results also demonstrate the presence of interactions between allosteric activators and potentiators, raising a possibility of effects on dosage requirements or changes in side effects.

Stoichiometry for drug potentiation of a pentameric ion channel

Drug modulation of ion channels is a powerful means to alter physiological responses for therapeutic benefit, yet the structural bases of modulation remain poorly understood. Here we study potentiation of nicotinic α7 acetylcholine receptors, which are emerging drug targets in several neurological disorders. α7 receptors are ligand-gated ion channels composed of five identical subunits, each bearing a site for the potentiating drug PNU-120596 (PNU). How the individual subunits contribute to PNU potentiation is not known. Taking advantage of a PNU-resistant mutant, we generated receptors composed of normal and PNU-resistant subunits and tagged one of the subunits with conductance mutations to report subunit stoichiometry. We then used patch clamp recording to monitor PNU potentiation of single α7 receptors with defined stoichiometry in real time. We find that potentiation depends steeply on the number of PNU-resistant subunits and that four, and possibly five, subunits must be sensitive to PNU for potentiation to occur. Thus, by monitoring the activity of every possible subunit combination, our findings predict that at the macroscopic level, PNU potentiation is highly cooperative.