Intracellular metabolism of adenosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate and calcium inward current in perfused neurones of Helix pomatia

Heightened Hippocampal β-Adrenergic Receptor Function Drives Synaptic Potentiation and Supports Learning and Memory in the TgF344-AD Rat Model during Prodromal Alzheimer's Disease

The central noradrenergic (NA) system is critical for the maintenance of attention, behavioral flexibility, spatial navigation, and learning and memory, those cognitive functions lost first in early Alzheimer's disease (AD). In fact, the locus coeruleus (LC), the sole source of norepinephrine (NE) for >90% of the brain, is the first site of pathologic tau accumulation in human AD with axon loss throughout forebrain, including hippocampus. The dentate gyrus is heavily innervated by LC-NA axons, where released NE acts on β-adrenergic receptors (ARs) at excitatory synapses from entorhinal cortex to facilitate long-term synaptic plasticity and memory formation. These synapses experience dysfunction in early AD before cognitive impairment. In the TgF344-AD rat model of AD, degeneration of LC-NA axons in hippocampus recapitulates human AD, providing a preclinical model to investigate synaptic and behavioral consequences. Using immunohistochemistry, Western blot analysis, and brain slice electrophysiology in 6- to 9-month-old wild-type and TgF344-AD rats, we discovered that the loss of LC-NA axons coincides with the heightened β-AR function at medial perforant path-dentate granule cell synapses that is responsible for the increase in LTP magnitude at these synapses. Furthermore, novel object recognition is facilitated in TgF344-AD rats that requires β-ARs, and pharmacological blockade of β-ARs unmasks a deficit in extinction learning only in TgF344-AD rats, indicating a greater reliance on β-ARs in both behaviors. Thus, a compensatory increase in β-AR function during prodromal AD in TgF344-AD rats heightens synaptic plasticity and preserves some forms of learning and memory.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT The locus coeruleus (LC), a brain region located in the brainstem which is responsible for attention and arousal, is damaged first by Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathology. The LC sends axons to hippocampus where released norepinephrine (NE) modulates synaptic function required for learning and memory. How degeneration of LC axons and loss of NE in hippocampus in early AD impacts synaptic function and learning and memory is not well understood despite the importance of LC in cognitive function. We used a transgenic AD rat model with LC axon degeneration mimicking human AD and found that heightened function of β-adrenergic receptors in the dentate gyrus increased synaptic plasticity and preserved learning and memory in early stages of the disease.

A single amino acid mutation attenuates rundown of voltage-gated calcium channels

The activity of voltage-gated calcium channels (VGCCs) decreases with time in whole-cell and inside-out patch-clamp recordings. In this study we found that substituting a single amino acid (I1520) at the intracellular end of IIIS6 in the alpha(1) subunit of P/Q-type Ca(2+) channels with histidine or aspartate greatly attenuated channel rundown in inside-out patch-clamp recordings. The homologous mutations also slowed rundown of N- and L-type Ca(2+) channels, albeit to a lesser degree. In P/Q-type channels, the attenuation of rundown is accompanied by an increased apparent affinity for phosphatidylinositol-4,5-bisphosphate, which has been shown to be critical for maintaining Ca(2+) channel activity [L. Wu, C.S. Bauer, X.-G. Zhen, C. Xie, J. Yang, Dual regulation of voltage-gated calcium channels by PtdIns(4,5)P2. Nature 419 (2002) 947-952]. Furthermore, the histidine mutation significantly stabilized the open state, making the channels easier to open, slower to close, harder to inactivate and faster to recover from inactivation. Our finding that mutation of a single amino acid can greatly attenuate rundown provides an easy and efficient way to slow the rundown of VGCCs, facilitating functional studies that require direct access to the cytoplasmic side of the channel.

A cGMP-dependent cascade enhances an L-type-like Ca2+ current in identified snail neurons

We studied the impact of an NO-cGMP dependent signalling pathway on the high-voltage-activated (HVA) Ca(2+) current in identified neurons of the pulmonate snail, Helix pomatia, using Ba(2+) as charge carrier. The 3',5'-cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) analogues, dibutyryl-cGMP and 8-bromo-cGMP, consistently induced a biphasic response, consisting of an increase superseded by a decline of the Ba(2+) current. The NO donor, sodium nitroprusside (SNP), modulated only in a minority of neurons the Ba(2+) current. Blockade of protein kinase activity with 1-[5-isoquinolinesulfonyl]-2 methyl piperazine (H 7), a nonselective protein kinase inhibitor, or Rp-8-pCPT-cGMP, a selective protein kinase G (PKG) inhibitor, decreased, whereas Rp-cAMP, a selective protein kinase A (PKA) inhibitor, increased the Ba(2+) current upon application of cGMP analogues or SNP. Okadaic acid or calyculin, inhibitors of protein phosphatase 1 (PP1) and protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A), augmented the Ba(2+) current. Under these conditions, cGMP analogues or SNP had an additive-enhancing effect on the Ba(2+) current. When neurons were exposed to the nonselective phosphodiesterase (PDE) inhibitor 3-isobutyl-1-methylxanthine (IBMX), cGMP analogues induced a persistent increase of the Ba(2+) current, whereas SNP induced a biphasic response. These data suggest coexistence of cGMP-PKG and cGMP-PDE pathways as well as crosstalk between cGMP and 3',5'-cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) pathways, which converge on HVA Ca channels in Helix neurons. In this model, augmentation of the Ba(2+) current through HVA Ca channels is accomplished by PKA and PKG, whereas attenuation is mediated by PDEs, which prevent activation of protein kinases via hydrolysis of cyclic nucleotides.

Calcium-dependent inactivation of neuronal calcium channel currents is independent of calcineurin

Dephosphorylation by the Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent phosphatase calcineurin has been suggested as an important mechanism of Ca2+-dependent inactivation of voltage-gated Ca2+ channels. We have tested whether calcineurin plays a role in the inactivation process of two types of high-voltage-activated Ca2+ channels (L and N type) widely expressed in the central nervous system, using the immunosuppressive drug FK506 (tacrolimus), which inhibits calcineurin after binding to intracellular FK506 binding proteins. Inactivation of L- and N-type Ca2+ channels was studied in a rat pituitary tumor cell line (GH3) and chicken dorsal root ganglion neurons, respectively. With the use of antisera directed against the calcineurin subunit B and the 12,000 mol. wt binding protein, we show that both proteins are present in the cytoplasm of GH3 cells and chicken dorsal root ganglion neurons. Ionic currents through voltage-gated Ca2+ channels were investigated in the perforated-patch and whole-cell configurations of the patch-clamp technique. The inactivation of L- as well as N-type Ca2+ currents could be well fitted with a bi-exponential function. Inactivation was largely reduced when Ba2+ substituted for extracellular Ca2+ or when the Ca2+ chelator EGTA was present intracellularly, indicating that both types of Ca2+ currents exhibited Ca2+-dependent inactivation. Extracellular (perforated-patch configuration) or intracellular (whole-cell configuration) application of FK506 to inactivate calcineurin had no effect on the amplitude and time-course of Ca2+ channel current inactivation of either L- or N-type Ca2+ channels. In addition, we found that recovery from inactivation and rundown of N-type Ca2+ channel currents were not affected by FK506. Our results provide direct evidence that the calcium-dependent enzyme calcineurin is not involved in the inactivation process of the two Ca2+ channel types which are important for neuronal functioning, such as gene expression and transmitter release.

Rundown of the hyperpolarization-activated KAT1 channel involves slowing of the opening transitions regulated by phosphorylation

Disappearance of the functional activity or rundown of ion channels upon patch excision in many cells involves a decrease in the number of channels available to open. A variety of cellular and biophysical mechanisms have been shown to be involved in the rundown of different ion channels. We examined the rundown process of the plant hyperpolarization-activated KAT1 K+ channel expressed in Xenopus oocytes. The decrease in the KAT1 channel activity on patch excision was accompanied by progressive slowing of the activation time course, and it was caused by a shift in the voltage dependence of the channel without any change in the single-channel amplitude. The single-channel analysis showed that patch excision alters only the transitions leading up to the burst states of the channel. Patch cramming or concurrent application of protein kinase A (PKA) and ATP restored the channel activity. In contrast, nonspecific alkaline phosphatase (ALP) accelerated the rundown time course. Low internal pH, which inhibits ALP activity, slowed the KAT1 rundown time course. The results show that the opening transitions of the KAT1 channel are enhanced not only by hyperpolarization but also by PKA-mediated phosphorylation.

Calcineurin involvement in the regulation of high-threshold Ca2+ channels in NG108-15 (rodent neuroblastoma x glioma hybrid) cells

1. We examined the relationship between calcineurin (protein phosphatase 2B (PP2B) and voltage-operated Ca2+ channels (VOCCs) in NG108-15 cells. PP2B expression in NG108-15 cells was altered by transfection with plasmid constructs containing a full length cDNA of human PP2B beta(3) in sense (CN-15) and antisense (CN-21) orientation. 2. Confocal immunocytochemical localization showed that in wild-type cells, PP2B immunoreactivity is uniformly distributed in undifferentiated cells and located at the inner surface of soma membrane and neurites in differentiated cells. 3. To test the Ca2+ dependence of the VOCC, we used high-frequency stimulation (HFS). The L- and N-type VOCCs decreased by 37 and 52%, respectively, whereas the T-type current was only marginally sensitive to this procedure. FK-506 (2 microM), a specific blocker of PP2B, reduced the inhibition of L- and N-type VOCCs induced by HFS by 30 and 33%, respectively. 4. In CN-15-transfected cells overexpressing PP2B, total high-voltage-activated (HVA) VOCCs were suppressed by about 60% at a test potential of +20 mV. Intracellular addition of EGTA or FK-506 into CN-15-transfected cells induced an up to 5-fold increase of HVA VOCCs. 5. These findings indicate that PP2B activity does not influence the expression of HVA Ca2+ channels, but modulates their function by Ca(2+)-dependent dephosphorylation. Thus HVA VOCCs, in a phosphorylated state under control conditions, are downregulated by PP2B upon stimulation, with the major effect on N-type VOCCs.

Multiple second messenger routes enhance two high-voltage-activated calcium currents in molluscan neuroendocrine cells

Two types of high-voltage-activated calcium currents were identified in whole-cell voltage-clamp recordings of the neuroendocrine caudodorsal cells, which control egg-laying in the freshwater snail Lymnaea stagnalis. The currents were: (i) a rapidly inactivating high-voltage-activated current, with an activation threshold of -40 mV and maximal amplitude at +10 mV; and (ii) a slowly inactivating high-voltage-activated current, with a threshold of -10 mV and a peak at +30 mV. Both currents were reduced by nifedipine and verapamil, but not by omega-conotoxin GVIA, suggesting that they belong to the L-type family of calcium currents. The voltage-dependence of inactivation of the rapidly inactivating high-voltage-activated current was bell-shaped. Time-constants of inactivation ranged from 10 to 25 ms. Steady-state inactivation was characterized by a potential of half maximal inactivation of -21.7 +/- 3.4 mV and a slope factor of 8.1 +/- 1.7 mV. The voltage-dependence of inactivation of the slowly inactivating high-voltage-activated current was S-shaped. Time-constants of inactivation increased with depolarization up to a maximum of 300 ms. The steady-state inactivation parameters were a potential of half maximal inactivation of +6.8 +/- 2.2 mV and a slope factor of 6.0 +/- 1.1 mV. The membrane-permeable analog of cAMP, 8-chlorophenylthio-cyclic AMP, predominantly increased the slowly inactivating high-voltage-activated current, and shifted its voltage-dependence of activation and inactivation 10 mV to the left. The rapidly inactivating high-voltage-activated current was slightly increased by 8-chlorophenylthio-cyclic AMP. 8-Bromo-cyclic GMP and the phorbol ester, 12-O-tetradecanoyl-13-phorbol acetate, had qualitatively similar effects. Both agents enhanced the rapidly inactivating current and, to a lesser degree, the slowly inactivating current, without affecting their voltage-dependence. The cyclic AMP-dependent protein kinase inhibitor, Walsh inhibitor peptide, antagonized the stimulating effect of 8-chlorophenylthio-cyclic AMP. The broad-spectrum protein kinase inhibitor 1-(5-isoquino-linylsulfonyl)-2-methyl-piperazine (H-7) strongly attenuated the effects of 8-chlorophenylthio-cyclic AMP, 8-bromo-cyclic GMP and 12-O-tetradecanoyl-13-phorbol acetate, suggesting that all treatments increase both types of high-voltage-activated calcium currents through phosphorylation of the channel-complex.

Anoxia reduces depolarization induced calcium uptake in the rat hippocampal slice

Veratridine-induced depolarization caused a large increase in Ca uptake in the rat hippocampal slice (30.2 vs. 9.0 nM/mg dry weight). This uptake was reduced to 18.4 nM/mg when veratridine was combined with anoxia. When compared with veratridine exposure alone, the combination of anoxia and veratridine increased intracellular Na (460 vs. 380 microM/g), decreased intracellular K (30 vs. 40 microM/g) and decreased ATP levels (0.1 vs. 0.8 nM/mg). The changes in Na, K, and ATP should enhance net Ca uptake, yet Ca uptake was reduced. This suggests an effect of anoxia to block Ca channels. In summary anoxia attenuates depolarization-induced Ca uptake. This may represent a mechanism by which neurons are partially protected against anoxic damage which could be more severe if depolarization-induced Ca uptake was not limited.

Chronic ingestion of ethanol increases the number of Ca2+ channels of hippocampal neurons of long-sleep but not short-sleep mice

Whole cell and single channel Ca2+ currents were compared for hippocampal neurons of normal and ethanol-tolerant long-sleep and short-sleep mice. The properties of these currents were equivalent for normal LS and SS mice. In contrast, the peak amplitude of the whole cell Ca2+ current increased significantly for neurons isolated from LS but not SS mice chronically ingesting ethanol. Since there were no changes in the functional properties of single channel events, these data indicate that chronic ingestion of ethanol causes an increase in the number of functional Ca2+ channels in the membrane of hippocampal neurons of LS mice.

Mechanisms of antagonistic action of internal Ca2+ on serotonin-induced potentiation of Ca2+ currents in Helix neurones

The influence of internal Ca2+ ions has been investigated during intracellular perfusion of isolated neurones from pedal ganglia of Helix pomatia in which serotonin (5-HT) induces a cyclic-adenosine-monophosphate-(cAMP)-dependent enhancement of high-threshold Ca2+ current (ICa). Internal free Ca2+ ([Ca2+]i) was varied between 0.01 and 10 microM by addition of Ca(2+)-EGTA [ethylenebis(oxonitrilo)tetraacetate] buffer. Elevation of [Ca2+]i depressed the 5-HT effect. The dose/effect curve for the Ca2+ blockade had a biphasic character and could be described by the sum of two Langmuir's isotherms for tetramolecular binding with dissociation constants Kd1 = 0.063 microM and Kd2 = 1 microM. Addition of calmodulin (CM) antagonists (50 microM trifluoperazine or 50 microM chlorpromazine), phosphodiesterase (PDE) antagonists [100 microM isobutylmethylxanthine (IBMX) or 5 mM theophylline] and protein phosphatase antagonists [2 microM okadaic acid (OA)] in the perfusion solution caused "anticalcium" action and modified the Ca2+ binding isotherm. Using the effect of OA and IBMX, two components of the total Ca2+ inhibition were separated and evaluated. In the presence of one of these blockers tetramolecular curves with Kd1 = 0.04 microM and Kd2 = 0.69 microM were obtained describing the activation of the retained unblocked enzyme--PDE or calcineurin (CN) correspondingly. The sum of these isotherms gave a biphasic curve similar to that in control. Leupeptin (100 microM), a blocker of Ca(2+)-dependent proteases did not influence the amplitude of 5-HT effect, indicating that channel proteolysis is not involved in the depression. Our findings show that the molecular mechanism of Ca(2+)-induced suppression of the cAMP-dependent upregulation of Ca2+ channels is due to involvement of two Ca(2+)-CM-dependent enzymes: PDE reducing the cAMP level, and CN causing channel dephosphorylation. No other processes are involved in the investigated phenomenon at a Ca2+ concentration of less than or equal to 10 microM.

A cytoskeletal mechanism for Ca2+ channel metabolic dependence and inactivation by intracellular Ca2+

Many different types of voltage-dependent Ca2+ channels inactivate when intracellular ATP declines or intracellular Ca2+ rises. An inside-out, patch-clamp technique was applied to the Ca2+ channels of Lymnaea neurons to determine the mechanism(s) underlying these two phenomena. Although no evidence was found for a phosphorylation mechanism, agents that act on the cytoskeleton were found to alter Ca2+ channel activity. The cytoskeletal disrupters colchicine and cytochalasin B were found to speed Ca2+ channel decline in ATP, whereas the cytoskeletal stabilizers taxol and phalloidin were found to prolong Ca2+ channel activity without ATP. In addition, cytoskeletal stabilizers reduced Ca(2+)-dependent channel inactivation, suggesting that both channel metabolic dependence and Ca(2+)-dependent inactivation result from a cytoskeletal interaction.

Inactivation of the Ba2+ current in dissociated Helix neurons: voltage dependence and the role of phosphorylation

The rate of inactivation of the voltage-dependent Ba2+ current in dissociated neurons from the snail Helix aspersa was found to be modulated by phosphorylation. Conditions were chosen such that the most likely mechanism of inactivation of the Ba2+ current was a voltage-dependent/calcium-independent inactivation process. If adenosine-triphosphate (ATP) was not included in the patch electrode filling solution, or if alkaline phosphatase was added, the Ba2+ current rapidly ran down and the rate of inactivation greatly increased with time. Dialysis with either ATP gamma S or the phosphatase inhibitor okadaic acid (OA) either enhanced the amplitude or greatly reduced the rate of run-down of the Ba2+ current (depending upon the presence of ATP), as well as reducing the rate of inactivation. However, dialysis with either the catalytic subunit of the cyclic-adenosine-mono-phosphate-dependent protein kinase (cAMP-PK), a synthetic peptide inhibitor of this enzyme, or staurosporine (a potent inhibitor of protein kinase C), did not have any significant effect on the amplitude or kinetics of the Ba2+ current. Surprisingly, dialysis with a peptide inhibitor (CKIP) of the Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (Ca(2+)-CaM-PK) significantly reduced the rate of inactivation of this current. These results suggest that phosphorylation may exert its effect by modulating the gating properties of the Ca2+ channels.

Novel suppression of an L-type calcium channel in neurones of murine dorsal root ganglia by 2,3-butanedione monoxime

1. Voltage-activated currents through calcium channels in primary cultures of murine dorsal root ganglion cells (DRG) were studied with the whole-cell and cell-attached patch recording techniques. 2. The chemical phosphatase 2,3-butanedione monoxime (BDM) reversibly reduced the amplitude of L-type calcium current (ICa) in a dose-dependent manner; at a concentration of 20 mM, BDM caused a 47% suppression of ICa. 3. Application of 10 mM-8-bromo-cyclic AMP or 50 microM-isoprenaline onto DRG treated with BDM completely restored ICa to the pre-BDM level. 4. In striking contrast, bath application of Bay K 8644 (0.5-5 microM) had no effect on the BDM-suppressed ICa. As expected, Bay K 8644 alone caused a two- to threefold increase of the maximal ICa and shifted its I-V relationship to the left. Interestingly, if a cell was first exposed to Bay K 8644 further treatment with 20 mM-BDM resulted in 100% suppression of ICa. This suggests that Bay K 8644 changes the conformation of the calcium channel to one which is more sensitive or more accessible to the action of the phosphatase. 5. Pre-treatment of DRG with an activator of protein kinase C, 12-O-tetradecanoyl-phorbol-13-acetate, did not antagonize BDM's effect on ICa. 6. The depressant action of BDM on ICa was distinct from that of nifedipine in that it did not exhibit use dependence. 7. When single calcium channel currents were recorded in cell-attached patches (barium as the charge carrier), bath application of BDM reduced the percentage of time that the channel spent in the open state. 8. Superfusion with 8-bromo-cyclic AMP restored the ensemble macroscopic 'ICa' to the pre-BDM amplitude. This was due to a dramatic enhancement of the frequency of channel openings. 9. We suggest that BDM acts through the cytoplasm to alter cyclic AMP-dependent protein kinase modulation of neuronal L-type calcium channels. The brief, high-frequency openings which 8-bromo-cyclic AMP activates in the presence of BDM may reflect a rapid phosphorylation-dephosphorylation sequence which controls channel gating.

Parathyroid hormone enhances calcium current in snail neurones--simulation of the effect by phorbol esters

Effects of parathyroid hormone substance (PTH) on the voltage-activated calcium current (ICa) were studied on intracellularly perfused neurones of the snail, Helix pomatia, under voltage-clamp conditions. Application of 0.1 nM PTH produced a marked potentiation of the current. The effect developed slowly (60-70 min) and remained after removal of PTH. Potentiation could be observed in most neurones, but varied considerably from cell to cell; in some neurones ICa was increased 2- to 3-fold. Addition of ethylenebis(oxonitrilo)tetraacetate (EGTA, 10 mM) to, or removal of adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP, 2 mM) from the intracellular perfusing solution resulted in a suppression or attenuation of the potentiating effect. The effect could be reproduced by the synthetic 1-34 amino acid fragment of PTH. Extracellularly applied protein kinase-C (PK-C) activator phorbol ester phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA, 0.1-10 microM) produced a similar slow increase in ICa (up to 1.5- to 2-fold), while its inactive analogue (4 alpha-phorbol ester) had no effect on ICa. The effects of PTH and PMA were not additive. PK-C inhibitors [1-(5-isoquinoline-sulphonyl)-2-methylpiperazine hydrochloride] (H-7, 100 microM) and staurosporine (100 microM) as well as calcium channel antagonists Cd2+, verapamil, nifedipine and nimodipine depressed the effect of PTH. The chloride channel blocker 4,4'-diisothiocyanato-stilbene-2,2'-disulphonic acid (DIDS, 1 mM) did not affect the potentiating action of PTH. Activation of the adenylate cyclase system also potentiated ICa in some neurones, but this effect had a different time course and was additive to the effect of PTH.2=

Regulation of potassium conductance in the cellular membrane at early embryogenesis

At the early stages of development of the fresh water fish loach (Misgurnus fossilis) the resting membrane potential (Er) of cleaving cells oscillates periodically with an amplitude of 8-12 mV. Er oscillation correlates with the cell cycle and is accompanied by changes of K+ conductivity. Two types of K(+)-selective ionic channels with conductance of approximately 70 and 25 pS in symmetrical (150 mM KCl) solution were observed in the membrane of cleaving loach embryos. 'High' conductance and 'low' conductance channels were recorded in approximately 90% and 10% of patches investigated (n = 275), respectively? The activity of 'high' conductance channels was regulated by the application of pressure to the membrane, ie these channels were stretch-activated (SA). The activity of SA channels changes dramatically during the cell-cleavage cycle. At the beginning of interphase the probability of SA channels being in the open state (P0) was minimal, while at prometaphase the probability was increased 10-100-fold. Application of ATP to the cytoplasmic inside-out patches induced a reversible elevation of stretch sensitivity of the SA channels in 50% of the patches, while the non-hydrolyzable analogue of ATP was not effective. Combined application of ATP, cAMP and cAMP-dependent protein kinase (PK) induced a reversible elevation in the SA channel activity while inhibitors of PK prevented its activating effects. Phosphatase inhibitors prolonged the activating effect of PK on SA channels. We propose that oscillations of the resting potential during the cell-cleavage cycle arise due to modulation of SA channel sensitivity to stretch through cAMP-dependent phosphorylation.

Effects of serotonin and cAMP on calcium currents in different neurones of Helix pomatia

Effects of application of serotonin (5-HT) and intracellular administration of cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) on voltage-gated calcium current (ICa) were studied in isolated, intracellularly perfused Helix pomatia neurones. Two types of the effects of 5-HT (1-10 microM) were observed in different neurones: reversible inhibition (by about 20%) or reversible potentiation (up to 50%) of the current amplitude. Some cells did not respond to 5-HT application. In cells with the potentiating effect of 5-HT, ICa could also be increased by intracellular introduction of cAMP (100 microM), but not the guanosine analogue, cGMP (50-100 microM). These effects were not additive and could be potentiated by theophylline (5 mM) and 3-isobutyl-1-methylxanthine (IBMX, 100-500 microM); they could be mimicked by forskolin (10-50 microM) and abolished by tolbutamide (1-5 mM) or protein kinase inhibitor (500 micrograms/ml), indicating that cAMP-dependent phosphorylation mediates the potentiating action of 5-HT on ICa. In neurones showing inhibitory effect of 5-HT, neither cAMP nor forskolin increased ICa. Methiothepin (10-50 microM), a 5-HT1,2 receptor antagonist, irreversibly inhibited the potentiating effect of 5-HT, while antagonists of 5-HT2 receptors cyproheptadine (10-50 microM) or ketanserine (10-60 microM) and of 5-HT3 receptors ISC 205-930 (10-50 microM) or cocaine (5-25 microM) had no effect on ICa and its enhancement by 5-HT. It is suggested that in certain snail neurones the possibility of cAMP-dependent up-regulation of ICa correlates with the presence of 5-HT1-like receptors in the neuronal membrane.

Effects of okadaic acid and ATP gamma S on cell length and Ca(2+)-channel currents recorded in single smooth muscle cells of the guinea-pig taenia caeci

1. The effects of inhibiting phosphatase activity on Ca(2+)-channel currents and cell shortening in single cells of the guinea-pig taenia caeci were investigated by whole-cell voltage clamp and video recording techniques. 2. Ca(2+)-channel currents were isolated by use of pipette solutions containing Cs, tetraethylammonium and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) (3 mM). Ca2+ or Ba2+ (7.5 mM) in the bathing solution acted as the charge carrier during inward current flow. 3. Ca(2+)-channel currents in 7.5 mM Ba2+ (IBa) were recorded at potentials positive to -40 mV, were maximal near 0 mV and reversed near +60 mV. Both the inward and outward flow of current was blocked by 100 microM Cd2+. 4. Addition of the ATP analogue, adenosine 5'-O(3-thiotriphosphate) (ATP gamma S) (1 mM) to the pipette solution (containing 3 mM ATP) caused cell shortening to 23 +/- 2% (n = 5) of their initial length within 5 min. Control cells (containing 4 mM ATP) did not contract during recording periods up to 60 min in duration. 5. IBa, recorded 1-2 min after membrane rupture, was 134 +/- 19 (n = 13) pA, compared with 209 +/- 25 (n = 5) pA in control cells, otherwise there were no significant time-dependent effects of ATP gamma S. In particular, ATP gamma S did not prevent the decrease in amplitude, nor the acceleration of inactivation when Ca2+ (7.5 mM) replaced Ba2+ as the permeating ion. 6. Okadaic acid (OA) (50 microM), a chemical inhibitor of phosphatase activity, produced similar effects when applied intracellularly. When OA (25,microM) was applied extracellularly the rate of rundown of 'Ba was slowed. 7. Isoprenaline (1 microM) alone had no effect on 'Ba, but induced a small increase in IBa in the presence of OA (25 microM). 8. Thus, our results indicate that (1) the contractions in ATP gamma S and OA may well arise from the activation of a kinase which phosphorylates myosin at low concentrations of Ca2 +, and (2) changes in the state of phosphorylation of Ca2+ channels, or associated proteins, in the taenia caeci modulate their function, but probably not via mechanisms involving cyclic AMP-dependent protein kinases.

Sensitivity of stretch-activated K+ channels changes during cell-cleavage cycle and may be regulated by cAMP-dependent protein kinase

The properties of stretch-activated K+ channels in the membrane of loach (Misgurnus fossilis) embryos were studied using the patch-clamp technique. It was found that in the early stages of embryogenesis (2-256 cells) the stretch sensitivity of stretch-activated (SA) channels changes dramatically during the cell cleavage cycle. At the beginning of interphase the stretch sensitivity of SA channels and the probability of being in the open state (P0) were minimal, whereas at prometaphase they were increased 10-100-fold. Application of ATP to the cytoplasmic surface of excised inside-out patches induced a reversible increase in resting P0 and of stretch sensitivity of the SA channels in 50% of the patches, but the non-hydrolysable analogue of ATP, 5'-adenylylimidodiphosphate (AMP-PNP), was not effective. Phosphatase inhibitors (orthovanadate and para-nitrophenyl phosphate) prolonged the effect of ATP. Combined application of ATP, cAMP and cAMP-dependent protein kinase (PK) induced a reversible increase in the SA channel activity in 70% of those excised patches which did not respond to ATP. Inhibitors of PK prevented its activating effect. Dibutyryl-cAMP (dB cAMP) transiently increased activity of SA channels in intact cells. These results suggest that activity of SA channels may be regulated through cAMP-dependent phosphorylation and thus provide the basis for explanation of stretch sensitivity modulation during the cell cycle.

The effect of oxytocin on potential-dependent calcium current in snail neurons, Helix pomatia

1. The effect of external application of oxytocin on inward calcium current in dialyzed snail neurons has been investigated under clamp conditions. 2. External application of oxytocin in a dose-dependent manner (Kd 0.9 microM) inhibits inward calcium current in dialyzed neurons of the snail, Helix pomatia. 3. Inhibition of calcium current developed with the time constant of about 2 min. The degree of restoration of calcium current after oxytocin washout depends on duration of oxytocin action. 4. It has been suggested that inhibition of calcium current by oxytocin occurs in two stages, the initial one is more fast and reversible and the second one--more slow and irreversible. The participation of soluble second messengers in the inhibitory effect of oxytocin on calcium current is discussed.

Dependence of hormone secretion on activation-inactivation kinetics of voltage-sensitive Ca2+ channels in pituitary gonadotrophs

The relationships between the activation status of voltage-sensitive Ca2+ channels and secretory responses were analyzed in perfused rat gonadotrophs during stimulation by high extracellular K+ concentration ([K+]e) or the physiological agonist, gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH). Increase of [K+]e to 50 mM evokes an on-off secretory response, with a rapid rise in luteinizing hormone (LH) secretion to a peak at 35 sec (on response) followed by an exponential decrease to the steady-state level. Cessation of K+ stimulation elicits a transient (off) response followed by an exponential decrease to the basal level. The LH response to high [K+]e is nifedipine-sensitive and its amplitude depends on membrane potential. There is a close relationship between the LH secretory response to high [K+]e and the amplitude of the inward Ca2+ current measured at 100 msec in whole-cell patch clamp experiments. In addition, the profile of the LH secretory response is similar to that of the response of intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) in K(+)-stimulated cells. In Ca2(+)-deficient medium, the effect of high [K+]e is abolished; subsequent elevation of [Ca2+]e during the K+ pulse is followed by restoration of the on response, but with reduced magnitude. Agonist stimulation during the steady-state phase of the [K+]e pulse or after repetitive stimulation by high [K+]e elicited biphasic [Ca2+]i and secretory responses with a significantly reduced plateau phase; conversely, K(+)-induced LH release was reduced in cells treated with desensitizing doses of GnRH. These findings indicate that depolarization-induced changes in the status of voltage-sensitive Ca2+ channels determine the profiles of [Ca2+]i and LH responses to stimulation by high [K+]e; the initial activation of dihydropyridine-sensitive Ca2+ channels is clearly dependent on membrane potential, whereas their subsequent inactivation depends on increased [Ca2+]i. Such inactivation of voltage-sensitive Ca2+ channels also occurs during GnRH action and may represent an additional regulatory mechanism to limit the entry of extracellular Ca2+ during prolonged or frequent agonist stimulation.

ATP-sensitive K(+)-channel run-down is Mg2+ dependent

ATP-sensitive K(+)-channel currents were recorded from isolated membrane patches and voltage-clamped CRI-G1 insulin-secreting cells. Internal Mg2+ ions inhibited ATP-K+ channels by a voltage-dependent block of the channel current and decrease of open-state probability. The run-down of ATP-K+ channel activity was also shown to be [Mg2+]i dependent, being almost abolished in Mg2(+)-free conditions. Substitution of Mn2+ for Mg2+ did not prevent run-down, nor did the presence of phosphate-donating nucleotides, a protease or phosphatase inhibitor or replacement of Cl- by gluconate.

A dual-pipette technique that permits rapid internal dialysis and membrane potential measurement in voltage-clamped cardiomyocytes

Guinea pig ventricular myocytes were voltage-clamped and dialysed using two glass patch pipettes (P1, P2) with tip openings of around 2 microns. A substantial improvement in the efficacy of dialysis from P2 was achieved by the application of positive pressure (15-30 cm H2O) to P2, and similar negative pressure to P1. Evidence of enhanced dialysis was obtained by measuring the effect on Ca channel current of P2 dialysates containing Ca, cAMP, GTP [gamma-S], trypsin, or the catalytic subunit of protein kinase A. Times to maximum response were 3-5 times shorter than those calculated or observed by others using a single-pipette method. The speeding-up was verified in comparative experiments with 100 microM GTP [gamma-S] dialysates; maximum stimulation of ICa occurred after 1.3-1.8 min with the dual-pipette method, versus 8.2 min with a single pipette. Other advantages of the dual-pipette method include the option of following a control dialysis from P1 with a test dialysis from P2, and the measurement of actual membrane potential. The disadvantages are that the rate of success is lower than with single-pipette experiments, and that smaller cardiomyocytes are difficult subjects.

GABAA receptor function is regulated by phosphorylation in acutely dissociated guinea-pig hippocampal neurones

1. Current mediated by GABAA receptors was examined in pyramidal cells acutely dissociated from the hippocampus of mature guinea-pigs. Current responses were measured using whole-cell voltage-clamp recordings. An internal perfusion technique was used to change the intracellular contents during recording. 2. Application of GABA (100-300 microM) by short duration pressure pulses produced outward current responses at a holding potential of -10 mV. When recordings were made with intracellular solutions which did not contain Mg-ATP, GABA responses progressively decreased to less than 10% of their initial values after 10 min. This 'run-down' of the GABA response could not be accounted for by desensitization since the rate of run-down was not dependent upon agonist application. 3. The run-down of the GABAA response was reversed when Mg2+ (4 mM) and ATP (2 mM) were introduced into the intracellular perfusate. In addition to the presence of Mg-ATP, buffering of Ca2+ in the intracellular solution to low levels (approximately 10(-8) M) was also necessary to stabilize the GABAA response. 4. The role of a phosphorylation process in regulating the GABAA receptor was tested. After the GABA response stabilized, introduction of alkaline phosphatase (100 micrograms/ml) to the intracellular perfusate caused a complete run-down of the GABA response. 5. Stable GABA responses were obtained when ATP was replaced by ATP-gamma-S (adenosine 5'-O-(thiotriphosphate), an analogue of ATP that donates a thiophosphate group resulting in a product that is more resistant to hydrolysis. Following such treatment GABA responses declined more slowly after the introduction of intracellular alkaline phosphatase. 6. Run-down of GABA responses accelerated when intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) was elevated to about 5 x 10(-4) M. The run-down caused by elevated [Ca2+]i could be stopped and reversed by reducing [Ca2+]i to about 10(-8) M. 7. The introduction of ATP-gamma-S to the intracellular medium retarded the run-down of GABA responses caused by elevation of [Ca2+]i. 8. N-(6-Aminohexyl)-5-chloro-1-naphthalenesulphonamide (W-7), a calmodulin inhibitor, reduced the rate of run-down induced by elevated [Ca2+]i. 9. These results suggest that the function of the GABAA receptor is maintained by phosphorylation of the receptor or some closely associated regulatory molecule. Elevation of [Ca2+]i destabilizes the function of the GABAA receptor, probably by activating a Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent phosphatase.

Diversity of calcium ion channels in cellular membranes

Successful introduction of techniques for separation of different ionic currents and recording of single channel activity has demonstrated the diversity of membrane structures responsible for generation of calcium signal during various forms of cellular activity. In excitable cells the electrically-operated calcium channels have been separated into two types functioning in different membrane potential ranges (low- and high-threshold ones). The low-threshold channels are ontogenetically primary and may play a role in regulation of cell development and differentiation. A similar function may also be characteristic of chemically-operated channels in some highly specialized cells (lymphocytes). The high-threshold channels in excitable cells generate an intracellular signal coupling membrane excitation and intracellular metabolic processes responsible for specific cellular reactions (among them retention of traces of previous activity in neurons--"learning"--being especially important). Chemically-operated N-methyl-D-aspartate-channels also participate in this function. The calcium signal can be potentiated by activation of calcium-operated channels in the membranes of intracellular structures, resulting in the liberation of calcium ions from the intracellular stores. Although different types of calcium channels have some common features in their structure which may indicate their genetic similarity, their specific properties make them well suited for participation in a wide range of cellular mechanisms.

Modulation of calcium current by calmodulin antagonists

The short-term effects of bath applied calmodulin antagonists--chlorpromazine, trifluoperazine and calmidazolium (R24571)--on potential-dependent calcium channels in the membrane of intracellularly perfused snail neurons were studied in voltage clamp conditions. All the drugs affected the calcium inward current peak value, the effects being reversible and dependent on the concentration used. Submicromolar concentrations (0.1-1 microM) increased the current amplitude (the maximal effect was on the average 20% at 0.5 microM), whereas higher concentrations inhibited the current. Analysis of the dose-effect curve for the blockade suggests positive cooperativity in the interaction of the drugs with the channel; experimental data on chlorpromazine action (10-100 microM) are well approximated by a binding curve for two molecules with the effective Kd = 70 microM. The efficiency of the blockade depended neither on the current-carrying cations (calcium or barium) nor on the intracellular introduction of 10 mM EGTA. The presence of calmodulin antagonists influenced the blockade of the calcium current by inorganic blockers: 50 microM chlorpromazine decreased the Kd value from 90 to 50 microM for the current blockade by Cd ions. It is suggested that calmodulin antagonists interact with two sites in the calcium channel, with high and low binding affinity (responsible for enhancement and inhibition of the current, respectively). The interaction induces changes in binding of penetrating cations in the channel, thereby producing modulation of the calcium current amplitude.

"Run-down" of the Ca current during long whole-cell recordings in guinea pig heart cells: role of phosphorylation and intracellular calcium

We examined by a statistical approach the decrease of the Ca current ("run-down") during long-lasting recordings with the whole-cell patch-clamp technique in guinea pig ventricular myocytes. The results are as follows. (1) Run-down of the Ca current (ICa) occurs in three phases (T1-T3). T1 (38 +/- 19 min, n = 135) and T3 (35 +/- 17 min, n = 23) are characterized by a slow rate of decay of ICa [90 +/- 20 and 60 +/- 20 nA.cm-2.min-1, respectively]. T1 and T3 are separated by T2 (6 +/- 4 min, n = 135) during which the current decays quickly [1200 +/- 230 nA.cm-2.min-1]. Between the onsets of T1 and T3, ICa decreases from 11 +/- 3 to 3.5 +/- 1 microA/cm2. (2) Normalized current-voltage relationship, reversal potential and voltage-dependencies of steady-state activation and inactivation of ICa are globally shifted toward more negative potentials during the run-down process by 10-15 mV. (3) ICa3 measured during T3 retains the pharmacological properties (blockade by D600, NiCl2 and CoCl3, increase by isoprenaline and insensitivity to tetrodotoxin) of the original ICa. (4) Intracellular perfusion of the nonhydrolysable ATP analogue AMP-PNP does not prevent the occurrence of T2, suggesting that a phosphorylation-dephosphorylation process is not involved in the fast run-down of ICa. (5) With 0.1 mM EGTA in the pipette, addition of 3 mM ATP significantly prolongs ICa survival. No improvements are obtained by increasing the ATP concentration to 10 mM or replacing ATP with creatine phosphate.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Potassium outward current dependent on extracellular calcium in snail neuronal membrane

In experiments on isolated intracellularly dialysed neurons of the snail Helix pomatia a component of delayed inactivating potassium outward current depending on the presence of Ca2+ ions in the extracellular medium has been distinguished, which differs from the already known potassium current sensitive to intracellular calcium ions. This component decreases with a decrease in extracellular calcium (in the range of 10(-2) - 10(-5) M); it is not affected or even increased by intracellular introduction of ethyleneglycolbis(aminoethylether)tetra-acetate (10 mM) or fluoride ions (77 mM) and can be blocked by addition of 1.5 mM cobalt ions to the extracellular solution. Contrary to the slow rising potassium current dependent on intracellular calcium, this current has a fast rising phase (several milliseconds) and time-dependent inactivation. The inactivation depends on extracellular potassium ions: it slowed down when [K+]out is increased in the range of 1-10 mM. Extracellular application of calmodulin blockers calmidazolium (6.5 X 10(-7) M) and chlorpromazine (2.5 X 10(-6) M) selectively inhibits the potassium current dependent on intracellular calcium but does not affect that dependent on external calcium. Tetraethylammonium (10 mM) depresses the latter current on both intra- and extracellular application, the former being more effective. The existence of a special type of potassium channel sensitive to extracellular calcium ions is postulated.

Calcium-dependent inactivation of potential-dependent calcium inward current in an isolated guinea-pig smooth muscle cell

1. Calcium current (ICa) was studied in single isolated smooth muscle cells of a guinea-pig taenia caeci dialysed with Cs+-containing solution to suppress K+ outward current. 2. With increasing step depolarizations up to +10 mV, acceleration of ICa inactivation was observed. With further increase of step depolarization, ICa inactivation was slowed down. The largest ICa (observed at +10 mV) was characterized by the maximal speed of inactivation. 3. Comparison of ICa in different external concentrations of Ca2+ ions ([Ca2+]o) revealed that at the same membrane potential the time course of ICa inactivation was slower, the smaller the amplitude of ICa. Slowing down of ICa inactivation was observed also during its partial block by Co2+ ions. 4. Elevation of temperature increased ICa peak amplitude and accelerated its decay. The amplitude of ICa was increased by a factor of 1.7 +/- 0.14 (n = 6) when the temperature was raised by 10 degrees C. 5. Calculations of Ca2+ entry during ICa as a time integral of Co2+-sensitive current, and comparison with the degree of ICa inactivation, showed that inactivation was tightly related to Ca2+ entry in the membrane potential range -20 to +40 mV. 6. Ba2+ current through Ca2+ channels was larger than ICa and its inactivation was considerably slower. 7. Recovery of ICa from inactivation was found to be potential dependent. When the cell membrane was hyperpolarized, ICa recovery was accelerated. 8. It was concluded that inactivation and recovery of ICa in smooth muscle cells were influenced by both Ca2+ entry and membrane potential. It was also pointed out that the observed events are difficult to explain by the hypothesis that inactivation was produced simply by accumulation of Ca2+ ions near the inner side of the membrane, and that recovery was due to lowering of internal free Ca2+ ion concentration ([Ca2+]i).

Cyclic nucleotide potentiation of muscarinic responses in neuroblastoma cells

The role of cyclic nucleotides in modulating acetylcholine-induced and dopamine-induced responses was examined with cultured neuroblastoma N1E-115 cells by means of intracellular recording techniques. Acetylcholine-induced muscarinic hyperpolarization and muscarinic depolarization were potentiated by bath application of a dibutyryl analog of adenosine 3',5'-phosphate (cyclic AMP) or phosphodiesterase inhibitors, 3-isobutyl-1-methylxanthine and 4-(3-butoxy-4-methoxybenzyl)-2-imidazolidinone. Dibutyryl cyclic AMP did not affect the resting membrane potential and membrane resistance. Acetylcholine-induced nicotinic depolarization was unaffected by dibutyryl cyclic AMP or phosphodiesterase inhibitors. Intracellular pressure injection of cyclic AMP caused a potentiation of muscarinic hyperpolarization and muscarinic depolarization without marked change in the resting membrane potential. Nicotinic depolarization and dopamine depolarization were not affected by cyclic AMP injection. Among the possible metabolites of cyclic AMP, injection of adenosine potentiated muscarinic hyperpolarization, but did not change nicotinic depolarization and dopamine depolarization. Injection of guanosine 3',5'-phosphate (cyclic GMP) potentiated muscarinic hyperpolarization and muscarinic depolarization without effect on nicotinic depolarization and dopamine depolarization. We conclude that cyclic AMP and cyclic GMP enhance muscarinic responses in neuroblastoma cells. It is suggested that synaptic transmission in the nervous system may be modulated postsynaptically by changes in intracellular cyclic nucleotide levels.

Dual effects of ATP on K+ currents of mouse pancreatic beta-cells

K+ currents through ATP-dependent channels were recorded from inside-out patches of beta-cell membrane as previously described (Rorsman and Trube 1985). Channels were opened by removing ATP from the intracellular side of the membrane. The open probability and/or the number of active channels declined spontaneously ("run-down") when ATP was absent for periods longer than about 30 s. Channels subject to the run-down could be activated again after applying a blocking concentration (greater than 0.1 mM) of ATP in presence of 1 mM MgCl2 for at least 2 min. ATP in absence of Mg and the ATP-analogues AMP-PNP, AMP-PCP and ATP gamma S were ineffective in reactivating the channels. This suggests that phosphorylation of the channels or associated proteins or hydrolysis of ATP may be necessary for keeping the channels available. In contrast to the differential effects on the run-down, ATP in presence and absence of Mg and the ATP analogues were similarly effective in blocking the channels at concentrations above 0.1 mM. Using an experimental protocol avoiding the run-down the dose-inhibition curve for ATP was found to reach 50% at 18 microM.

Evidence that herbicides relaxing smooth and oblique-striated muscles affect the muscle cell membrane

1. From the example of two herbicides [chlorpropham (CIPC) and terbutryn], it has been shown that such compounds inhibit spontaneously occurring, as well as pharmacologically (ACh, KCl, caffeine) or electrically (negative DC) evoked tonic and phasic activities in different smooth and oblique-striated muscles of snails [penis retractor muscle (PRM) of Helix], worms (torsos and muscle segments of Lumbricus and Eisenia) and mice (small intestine of Mus). In PRM preparations, experiments with the denervating drugs 6-OHDA, -5,6-DHT, and reserpine, or with the serotonergic receptor blocker methysergide, produced evidence that the herbicidal side-effect was not caused by action on the nervous system. 3. A relaxant effect on ACh-evoked contractions in the PRM was induced by drugs altering the Ca2+ equilibrium, for example, theophylline, papaverine, chlorpromazine, or trifluoperazine. 4. In addition, an extracellular Ca2+ deficiency or the presence of papaverine led to an enhancement of a CIPC-caused inhibition of ACh- or KCl-induced contractions. 5. The amplitudes of chemically evoked contractions in "skinned muscle cells" of Helix PRM or Lumbricus segments were influenced neither by CIPC nor by terbutryn. 6. CIPC was concentrated by the intact PRM and by a membrane containing PRM fraction, as well as by the worms' circular muscle system. 7. A fluorescent CIPC analogue, dansyl-3-chloroaniline, characterized by a similar inhibiting property on the induced contractions was detected at the border of PRM cells. 8. It is concluded that in the different muscle systems the side-effect of the herbicidal compounds is located in the outer muscle cell membrane where a Ca2+-dependent mechanism may be concerned.

Dephosphorylation of synaptosomal proteins P96 and P139 is regulated by both depolarization and calcium, but not by a rise in cytosolic calcium alone

Depolarization of intact synaptosomes activates calcium channels, leads to an influx of calcium, and increases the phosphorylation of several neuronal proteins. In contrast, there are two synaptosomal phosphoproteins labeled in intact synaptosomes with 32Pi, termed P96 and P139, which appear to be dephosphorylated following depolarization. Within intact synaptosomes P96 was found in the cytosol whereas P139 was present largely in membrane fractions. Depolarization-stimulated dephosphorylation was fully reversible and continued for up to five cycles of depolarization/repolarization, suggesting a physiological role for the phenomenon. The basal phosphorylation of these proteins was at least partly regulated by cyclic AMP, since dibutyryl cyclic AMP produced small but significant increases in P96 and P139 labeling, even in the presence of fluphenazine at concentrations that inhibited calcium-stimulated protein kinases. Depolarization-dependent dephosphorylation was independent of a rise in intracellular calcium, since agents such as guanidine and low concentrations of A23187, which increase intracellular calcium without activating the calcium channel, did not initiate P96 or P139 dephosphorylation. These agents did sustain increases in the phosphorylation of a number of other proteins including synapsin I and protein III. The results suggest that the phosphorylation of these two synaptosomal proteins is intimately linked to the membrane potential and that their dephosphorylation is dependent on both the mechanism of calcium entry and calcium itself, rather than simply on a rise in intracellular free calcium.

Channels produced by spider venoms in bilayer lipid membrane: mechanisms of ion transport and toxic action

The selectivity of ion channels produced by latrotoxin obtained from a black widow spider venom and by venom from the spider Steatoda paykulliana in bilayer phospholipid membrane was studied. Experimental current-voltage curves of these channels were used for the estimation of parameters of a two barrier model of their energy profiles. Selectivities of both types of channels are similar. Alkaline earth cations are permeable, the permeability increasing in the order Mg2+ less than Ca2+ less than Sr2+ less than Ba2+. In contrast transition metal cations block the channel, their efficiency decreases in the order: Cd2+ greater than or equal to Ni2+ greater than Zn2+ greater than Co2+ greater than Mn2+ (Steatoda paykulliana spider venom) and Cd2+ greater than Co2+ greater than Ni2+ greater than Zn2+ greater than Mn2+ (latrotoxin). Amplitudes of current carried by corresponding ions are mainly determined by the depth of the potential well for this ion, i.e., by its affinity to the cation binding site in the channel. The channels are also permeable to monovalent cations but they do not bind them. Selectivity for monovalent cations depends on Ca2+ concentration at the cis-side of membrane in the micromolar range. However, the addition of Ca2+ to the trans-side up to 10 mM does not affect currents carried by monovalent ions. It is suggested that venom-induced calcium channels have two conformational states with different selectivities which interconvert upon binding one calcium ion. Possible general schemes for the organisation of calcium channels in excitable membranes are also discussed. Finally, using a mathematical model of synaptic transmission, possible mechanisms of toxic action of spider venoms are considered.

An enzymatic mechanism for calcium current inactivation in dialysed Helix neurones

'Wash-out' and inactivation of the Ca current were examined in dialysed, voltage-clamped neurones of Helix aspersa under conditions that isolate the Ca current virtually free of other currents. EGTA or other internal Ca2+ chelators were routinely omitted from the dialysate. The time-dependent loss, or wash-out, of Ca current was slowed by addition to the dialysing solution of agents, such as dibutyryl adenosine 3'-5'-cyclic monophosphate (dibutyryl cyclic AMP), Mg adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP) and the catalytic subunit of cyclic-AMP-dependent protein kinase, that promote protein phosphorylation and by EGTA. However, neither the phosphorylation-promoting agents nor internal EGTA prevented wash-out entirely, nor did they significantly restore previously 'washed-out' current. With phosphorylating agents in the dialysing solution, the irreversible development of wash-out was greatly reduced by introduction of leupeptin, an inhibitor of protease activity. Thus, the irreversible component of wash-out appears to result from a Ca-dependent proteolytic process. In the presence of leupeptin alone, Ca current amplitude continued to decline: however, the current could be largely or fully restored with addition of catalytic subunit, dibutyryl cyclic AMP, and Mg ATP to the dialysing solution. Thus, inhibition of proteolysis revealed a reversible component of wash-out that appears to result from dephosphorylation. During perfusion with leupeptin, Mg ATP, dibutyryl cyclic AMP and catalytic subunit the Ca current remained stable for up to several hours without addition of internal Ca2+ buffer. The rate of inactivation of the current that occurs during a depolarizing step showed only a very gradual decline during this time. Under these conditions, perfusion with calcineurin, a Ca-calmodulin-dependent phosphatase, caused a significant increase in the rate of Ca current inactivation. This inactivation was virtually eliminated by introduction of EGTA or by replacement of external Ca2+ with Ba2+, which is consistent with the ion dependency for calmodulin-dependent activation of calcineurin. When ATP in the dialysate was replaced with ATP-gamma-S (adenosine 5'-O-(thiotriphosphate], an analogue that donates a thiophosphate group resistant to hydrolysis, the rate of inactivation slowed. Since Ca-dependent inactivation during step depolarizations is enhanced by conditions that promote dephosphorylation, and Ca current wash-out is slowed by conditions that promote phosphorylation, inactivation and reversible wash-out appear to be related.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)

Calcium channel currents in pars intermedia cells of the rat pituitary gland. Kinetic properties and washout during intracellular dialysis

Ca channel currents in primary cultured pars intermedia cells were studied using whole-cell recording with patch pipettes. Experiments were carried out at 18-21 degrees C in cells internally dialyzed with K-free, EGTA-containing solutions and in the presence of 10 mM Ca or 10 mM Ba in the external solution. Ca and Ba currents depended on the activity of two main populations of channels, SD and FD. With Ca as the charge carrier, these two populations differed in their closing time constants at -80 mV (SD, 1.8 ms; FD, 110 microseconds), apparent activation levels (SD, -40 mV; FD, -5 mV), half-maximal activation levels (SD, +5 to +10 mV; FD, +20 to +25 mV), half-times of activation at +20 mV (SD, 2.5-3.5 ms; FD, 1.0-1.3 ms), and time courses of inactivation (SD, fast; FD, slow). Functional FD channels were almost completely lost within 20-25 min of breaking into a cell, whereas SD channels retained most of their functional activity. In addition, the conductance-voltage curve for FD channels shifted approximately 15 mV toward more negative membrane potentials within 11-14 min under whole-cell recording. At that time, 60-70% of the FD channel maximum conductance was lost. However, the conductance-voltage curve for SD channels shifted less than 5 mV within 25 min. The addition of 3 mM MgATP and 40 microM GTP to the internal solution slowed down the loss of FD channels and prevented the shift in their activation curve. It was also found that the amplitude of the current carried by FD channels tends to increase as a function of the age of the culture, with no obvious changes in the kinetic properties of the channels or in SD channel activity.

Differentiation of voltage-gated potassium current and modulation of excitability in cultured amphibian spinal neurones

Gigaohm-seal whole-cell voltage-clamp techniques were used to study the development of ionic currents in the membrane of embryonic amphibian (Ambystoma) spinal neurones during in vitro differentiation. Dissociated neural plate cells, some of which are neuronal precursor cells, were placed into culture. Cells became excitable at the time of neurite outgrowth, 2-3 days later, and over the next 2-10 days the duration of the action potential shortened from about 100 ms to about 1 ms. Voltage-clamp recordings demonstrated that at the time of appearance of neurites, activatable Na, Ca and voltage-gated K channels were present in the membrane (Ca-dependent K channels were not studied). Over succeeding days in culture, records of total membrane current indicated that the amplitudes of peak inward and steady-state outward currents both increased. As a result of these increases, the pattern of total membrane current came to be increasingly dominated by outward currents. With inward Na and Ca currents blocked, a voltage-gated K current (IK(V] could be studied in isolation. The reversal potential of this current varied in good agreement with the equilibrium potential for K ions predicted by the Nernst relation. The wave form of IK(V) activation was sigmoidal. Activation was more rapid at more positive voltages (relative to the usual holding potential of -70 mV), and deactivation was more rapid at more negative voltages. The amplitude of IK(V) increased during neural development, while cell size remained approximately constant. Increases in rates of activation and deactivation were observed in parallel with the increase in current density. When measured at 0 mV, cells studied on day 4 of culture or earlier showed steady-state chord conductances (gK(V] of less than 20 nS, and one-half activation times (t1/2) of 2 X 5-10 ms. Older cells showed gK(V)s of 10-80 nS, and t1/2s of 0 X 8-2 X 5 ms. As Na, and to a lesser extent Ca, current amplitudes were also increasing during differentiation, these observations concerning IK(V) suggested that its amplitude and kinetic changes might in part be responsible for the observed decrease in action potential duration during development. This hypothesis was tested by modelling Na, Ca and voltage-gated K currents and testing the effects of changes in amplitude and kinetics of IK(V) on the duration and ionic dependence of reconstructed action potentials. The results obtained using this model suggested that the increase in IK(V) amplitude and activation rate was sufficient to change action potential duration and apparent ionic sensitivity.