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Liang Q, Chi G, Cirqueira L, Zhi L, Marasco A, Pilati N, Gunthorpe MJ, Alvaro G, Large CH, Sauer DB, Treptow W, Covarrubias M. The binding and mechanism of a positive allosteric modulator of Kv3 channels. Nat Commun 2024; 15:2533. [PMID: 38514618 PMCID: PMC10957983 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-46813-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Small-molecule modulators of diverse voltage-gated K+ (Kv) channels may help treat a wide range of neurological disorders. However, developing effective modulators requires understanding of their mechanism of action. We apply an orthogonal approach to elucidate the mechanism of action of an imidazolidinedione derivative (AUT5), a highly selective positive allosteric modulator of Kv3.1 and Kv3.2 channels. AUT5 modulation involves positive cooperativity and preferential stabilization of the open state. The cryo-EM structure of the Kv3.1/AUT5 complex at a resolution of 2.5 Å reveals four equivalent AUT5 binding sites at the extracellular inter-subunit interface between the voltage-sensing and pore domains of the channel's tetrameric assembly. Furthermore, we show that the unique extracellular turret regions of Kv3.1 and Kv3.2 essentially govern the selective positive modulation by AUT5. High-resolution apo and bound structures of Kv3.1 demonstrate how AUT5 binding promotes turret rearrangements and interactions with the voltage-sensing domain to favor the open conformation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiansheng Liang
- Department of Neuroscience,, Sidney Kimmel Medical College of Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, 19107, USA
- Jack and Vicki Farber Institute for Neuroscience and the Jefferson Synaptic Biology Center, Sidney Kimmel Medical College of Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, 19107, USA
| | - Gamma Chi
- Centre for Medicines Discovery, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Roosevelt Drive, Oxford, OX3 7DQ, UK
| | - Leonardo Cirqueira
- Laboratorio de Biologia Teorica e Computacional, University of Brasilia, Brasilia, Brazil
| | - Lianteng Zhi
- Department of Neuroscience,, Sidney Kimmel Medical College of Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, 19107, USA
- Jack and Vicki Farber Institute for Neuroscience and the Jefferson Synaptic Biology Center, Sidney Kimmel Medical College of Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, 19107, USA
| | - Agostino Marasco
- Autifony Srl, Istituto di Ricerca Pediatrica Citta' della Speranza, Via Corso Stati Uniti, 4f, 35127, Padua, Italy
| | - Nadia Pilati
- Autifony Srl, Istituto di Ricerca Pediatrica Citta' della Speranza, Via Corso Stati Uniti, 4f, 35127, Padua, Italy
| | - Martin J Gunthorpe
- Autifony Therapeutics, Ltd, Stevenage Bioscience Catalyst, Gunnels Wood Road, Stevenage, SG1 2FX, UK
| | - Giuseppe Alvaro
- Autifony Srl, Istituto di Ricerca Pediatrica Citta' della Speranza, Via Corso Stati Uniti, 4f, 35127, Padua, Italy
| | - Charles H Large
- Autifony Therapeutics, Ltd, Stevenage Bioscience Catalyst, Gunnels Wood Road, Stevenage, SG1 2FX, UK
| | - David B Sauer
- Centre for Medicines Discovery, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Roosevelt Drive, Oxford, OX3 7DQ, UK
| | - Werner Treptow
- Laboratorio de Biologia Teorica e Computacional, University of Brasilia, Brasilia, Brazil
| | - Manuel Covarrubias
- Department of Neuroscience,, Sidney Kimmel Medical College of Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, 19107, USA.
- Jack and Vicki Farber Institute for Neuroscience and the Jefferson Synaptic Biology Center, Sidney Kimmel Medical College of Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, 19107, USA.
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Chen YT, Hong MR, Zhang XJ, Kostas J, Li Y, Kraus RL, Santarelli VP, Wang D, Gomez-Llorente Y, Brooun A, Strickland C, Soisson SM, Klein DJ, Ginnetti AT, Marino MJ, Stachel SJ, Ishchenko A. Identification, structural, and biophysical characterization of a positive modulator of human Kv3.1 channels. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2023; 120:e2220029120. [PMID: 37812700 PMCID: PMC10589703 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2220029120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Voltage-gated potassium channels (Kv) are tetrameric membrane proteins that provide a highly selective pathway for potassium ions (K+) to diffuse across a hydrophobic cell membrane. These unique voltage-gated cation channels detect changes in membrane potential and, upon activation, help to return the depolarized cell to a resting state during the repolarization stage of each action potential. The Kv3 family of potassium channels is characterized by a high activation potential and rapid kinetics, which play a crucial role for the fast-spiking neuronal phenotype. Mutations in the Kv3.1 channel have been shown to have implications in various neurological diseases like epilepsy and Alzheimer's disease. Moreover, disruptions in neuronal circuitry involving Kv3.1 have been correlated with negative symptoms of schizophrenia. Here, we report the discovery of a novel positive modulator of Kv3.1, investigate its biophysical properties, and determine the cryo-EM structure of the compound in complex with Kv3.1. Structural analysis reveals the molecular determinants of positive modulation in Kv3.1 channels by this class of compounds and provides additional opportunities for rational drug design for the treatment of associated neurological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun-Ting Chen
- Computational and Structural Chemistry, Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, NJ07033
| | - Mee Ra Hong
- Computational and Structural Chemistry, Merck & Co., Inc., West Point, PA19486
| | - Xin-Jun Zhang
- Department of Neuroscience, Merck & Co., Inc., West Point, PA19486
| | - James Kostas
- Computational and Structural Chemistry, Merck & Co., Inc., West Point, PA19486
| | - Yuxing Li
- Department of Neuroscience, Merck & Co., Inc., West Point, PA19486
| | - Richard L. Kraus
- Department of Neuroscience, Merck & Co., Inc., West Point, PA19486
| | | | - Deping Wang
- Computational and Structural Chemistry, Merck & Co., Inc., West Point, PA19486
| | | | - Alexei Brooun
- Computational and Structural Chemistry, Merck & Co., Inc., West Point, PA19486
| | - Corey Strickland
- Computational and Structural Chemistry, Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, NJ07033
| | - Stephen M. Soisson
- Computational and Structural Chemistry, Merck & Co., Inc., West Point, PA19486
| | - Daniel J. Klein
- Computational and Structural Chemistry, Merck & Co., Inc., West Point, PA19486
| | | | | | | | - Andrii Ishchenko
- Computational and Structural Chemistry, Merck & Co., Inc., West Point, PA19486
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Zemel BM, Nevue AA, Tavares LES, Dagostin A, Lovell PV, Jin DZ, Mello CV, von Gersdorff H. Motor cortex analogue neurons in songbirds utilize Kv3 channels to generate ultranarrow spikes. eLife 2023; 12:e81992. [PMID: 37158590 PMCID: PMC10241522 DOI: 10.7554/elife.81992] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2022] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Complex motor skills in vertebrates require specialized upper motor neurons with precise action potential (AP) firing. To examine how diverse populations of upper motor neurons subserve distinct functions and the specific repertoire of ion channels involved, we conducted a thorough study of the excitability of upper motor neurons controlling somatic motor function in the zebra finch. We found that robustus arcopallialis projection neurons (RAPNs), key command neurons for song production, exhibit ultranarrow spikes and higher firing rates compared to neurons controlling non-vocal somatic motor functions (dorsal intermediate arcopallium [AId] neurons). Pharmacological and molecular data indicate that this striking difference is associated with the higher expression in RAPNs of high threshold, fast-activating voltage-gated Kv3 channels, that likely contain Kv3.1 (KCNC1) subunits. The spike waveform and Kv3.1 expression in RAPNs mirror properties of Betz cells, specialized upper motor neurons involved in fine digit control in humans and other primates but absent in rodents. Our study thus provides evidence that songbirds and primates have convergently evolved the use of Kv3.1 to ensure precise, rapid AP firing in upper motor neurons controlling fast and complex motor skills.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin M Zemel
- Vollum Institute, Oregon Health and Science UniversityPortlandUnited States
| | - Alexander A Nevue
- Department of Behavioral Neuroscience, Oregon Health and Science UniversityPortlandUnited States
| | - Leonardo ES Tavares
- Vollum Institute, Oregon Health and Science UniversityPortlandUnited States
- Department of Physics, Pennsylvania State UniversityUniversity ParkUnited States
| | - Andre Dagostin
- Vollum Institute, Oregon Health and Science UniversityPortlandUnited States
| | - Peter V Lovell
- Department of Behavioral Neuroscience, Oregon Health and Science UniversityPortlandUnited States
| | - Dezhe Z Jin
- Department of Physics, Pennsylvania State UniversityUniversity ParkUnited States
| | - Claudio V Mello
- Department of Behavioral Neuroscience, Oregon Health and Science UniversityPortlandUnited States
| | - Henrique von Gersdorff
- Vollum Institute, Oregon Health and Science UniversityPortlandUnited States
- Oregon Hearing Research Center, Oregon Health and Science UniversityPortlandUnited States
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Hearing loss drug discovery and medicinal chemistry: Current status, challenges, and opportunities. PROGRESS IN MEDICINAL CHEMISTRY 2022; 61:1-91. [PMID: 35753714 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pmch.2022.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Hearing loss is a severe high unmet need condition affecting more than 1.5 billion people globally. There are no licensed medicines for the prevention, treatment or restoration of hearing. Prosthetic devices, such as hearing aids and cochlear implants, do not restore natural hearing and users struggle with speech in the presence of background noise. Hearing loss drug discovery is immature, and small molecule approaches include repurposing existing drugs, combination therapeutics, late-stage discovery optimisation of known chemotypes for identified molecular targets of interest, phenotypic tissue screening and high-throughput cell-based screening. Hearing loss drug discovery requires the integration of specialist therapeutic area biology and otology clinical expertise. Small molecule drug discovery projects in the global clinical portfolio for hearing loss are here collated and reviewed. An overview is provided of human hearing, inner ear anatomy, inner ear delivery, types of hearing loss and hearing measurement. Small molecule experimental drugs in clinical development for hearing loss are reviewed, including their underpinning biology, discovery strategy and activities, medicinal chemistry, calculated physicochemical properties, pharmacokinetics and clinical trial status. SwissADME BOILED-Egg permeability modelling is applied to the molecules reviewed, and these results are considered. Non-small molecule hearing loss assets in clinical development are briefly noted in this review. Future opportunities in hearing loss drug discovery for human genomics and targeted protein degradation are highlighted.
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OIsen T, Capurro A, Švent M, Pilati N, Large C, Hartell N, Hamann M. Sparsely Distributed, Pre-synaptic Kv3 K + Channels Control Spontaneous Firing and Cross-Unit Synchrony via the Regulation of Synaptic Noise in an Auditory Brainstem Circuit. Front Cell Neurosci 2021; 15:721371. [PMID: 34539351 PMCID: PMC8446535 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2021.721371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2021] [Accepted: 08/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Spontaneous subthreshold activity in the central nervous system is fundamental to information processing and transmission, as it amplifies and optimizes sub-threshold signals, thereby improving action potential initiation and maintaining reliable firing. This form of spontaneous activity, which is frequently considered noise, is particularly important at auditory synapses where acoustic information is encoded by rapid and temporally precise firing rates. In contrast, when present in excess, this form of noise becomes detrimental to acoustic information as it contributes to the generation and maintenance of auditory disorders such as tinnitus. The most prominent contribution to subthreshold noise is spontaneous synaptic transmission (synaptic noise). Although numerous studies have examined the role of synaptic noise on single cell excitability, little is known about its pre-synaptic modulation owing in part to the difficulties of combining noise modulation with monitoring synaptic release. Here we study synaptic noise in the auditory brainstem dorsal cochlear nucleus (DCN) of mice and show that pharmacological potentiation of Kv3 K+ currents reduces the level of synaptic bombardment onto DCN principal fusiform cells. Using a transgenic mouse line (SyG37) expressing SyGCaMP2-mCherry, a calcium sensor that targets pre-synaptic terminals, we show that positive Kv3 K+ current modulation decreases calcium influx in a fifth of pre-synaptic boutons. Furthermore, while maintaining rapid and precise spike timing, positive Kv3 K+ current modulation increases the synchronization of local circuit neurons by reducing spontaneous activity. In conclusion, our study identifies a unique pre-synaptic mechanism which reduces synaptic noise at auditory synapses and contributes to the coherent activation of neurons in a local auditory brainstem circuit. This form of modulation highlights a new therapeutic target, namely the pre-synaptic bouton, for ameliorating the effects of hearing disorders which are dependent on aberrant spontaneous activity within the central auditory system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy OIsen
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology and Behaviour, College of Life Sciences, University of Leicester, Leicester, United Kingdom.,Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Alberto Capurro
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology and Behaviour, College of Life Sciences, University of Leicester, Leicester, United Kingdom.,Biosciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Maša Švent
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology and Behaviour, College of Life Sciences, University of Leicester, Leicester, United Kingdom
| | | | - Charles Large
- Autifony Therapeutics Limited, Stevenage Bioscience Catalyst, Stevenage, United Kingdom
| | - Nick Hartell
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology and Behaviour, College of Life Sciences, University of Leicester, Leicester, United Kingdom
| | - Martine Hamann
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology and Behaviour, College of Life Sciences, University of Leicester, Leicester, United Kingdom.,Biosciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
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Wu J, Kaczmarek LK. Modulation of Neuronal Potassium Channels During Auditory Processing. Front Neurosci 2021; 15:596478. [PMID: 33613177 PMCID: PMC7887315 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2021.596478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2020] [Accepted: 01/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The extraction and localization of an auditory stimulus of interest from among multiple other sounds, as in the ‘cocktail-party’ situation, requires neurons in auditory brainstem nuclei to encode the timing, frequency, and intensity of sounds with high fidelity, and to compare inputs coming from the two cochleae. Accurate localization of sounds requires certain neurons to fire at high rates with high temporal accuracy, a process that depends heavily on their intrinsic electrical properties. Studies have shown that the membrane properties of auditory brainstem neurons, particularly their potassium currents, are not fixed but are modulated in response to changes in the auditory environment. Here, we review work focusing on how such modulation of potassium channels is critical to shaping the firing pattern and accuracy of these neurons. We describe how insights into the role of specific channels have come from human gene mutations that impair localization of sounds in space. We also review how short-term and long-term modulation of these channels maximizes the extraction of auditory information, and how errors in the regulation of these channels contribute to deficits in decoding complex auditory information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Wu
- Department of Pharmacology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Leonard K Kaczmarek
- Department of Pharmacology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
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7
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Smith PA. K + Channels in Primary Afferents and Their Role in Nerve Injury-Induced Pain. Front Cell Neurosci 2020; 14:566418. [PMID: 33093824 PMCID: PMC7528628 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2020.566418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2020] [Accepted: 08/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Sensory abnormalities generated by nerve injury, peripheral neuropathy or disease are often expressed as neuropathic pain. This type of pain is frequently resistant to therapeutic intervention and may be intractable. Numerous studies have revealed the importance of enduring increases in primary afferent excitability and persistent spontaneous activity in the onset and maintenance of peripherally induced neuropathic pain. Some of this activity results from modulation, increased activity and /or expression of voltage-gated Na+ channels and hyperpolarization-activated cyclic nucleotide-gated (HCN) channels. K+ channels expressed in dorsal root ganglia (DRG) include delayed rectifiers (Kv1.1, 1.2), A-channels (Kv1.4, 3.3, 3.4, 4.1, 4.2, and 4.3), KCNQ or M-channels (Kv7.2, 7.3, 7.4, and 7.5), ATP-sensitive channels (KIR6.2), Ca2+-activated K+ channels (KCa1.1, 2.1, 2.2, 2.3, and 3.1), Na+-activated K+ channels (KCa4.1 and 4.2) and two pore domain leak channels (K2p; TWIK related channels). Function of all K+ channel types is reduced via a multiplicity of processes leading to altered expression and/or post-translational modification. This also increases excitability of DRG cell bodies and nociceptive free nerve endings, alters axonal conduction and increases neurotransmitter release from primary afferent terminals in the spinal dorsal horn. Correlation of these cellular changes with behavioral studies provides almost indisputable evidence for K+ channel dysfunction in the onset and maintenance of neuropathic pain. This idea is underlined by the observation that selective impairment of just one subtype of DRG K+ channel can produce signs of pain in vivo. Whilst it is established that various mediators, including cytokines and growth factors bring about injury-induced changes in DRG function and excitability, evidence presently available points to a seminal role for interleukin 1β (IL-1β) in control of K+ channel function. Despite the current state of knowledge, attempts to target K+ channels for therapeutic pain management have met with limited success. This situation may change with the advent of personalized medicine. Identification of specific sensory abnormalities and genetic profiling of individual patients may predict therapeutic benefit of K+ channel activators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter A. Smith
- Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience and Mental Health Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
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A Mechanistic Study of p11 Reveals a Promising New Rapid-Action Antidepressant Target. Biol Psychiatry 2020; 88:e23-e24. [PMID: 32792054 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2020.06.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2020] [Accepted: 06/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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9
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Choudhury N, Linley D, Richardson A, Anderson M, Robinson SW, Marra V, Ciampani V, Walter SM, Kopp‐Scheinpflug C, Steinert JR, Forsythe ID. Kv3.1 and Kv3.3 subunits differentially contribute to Kv3 channels and action potential repolarization in principal neurons of the auditory brainstem. J Physiol 2020; 598:2199-2222. [DOI: 10.1113/jp279668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2020] [Accepted: 03/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Nasreen Choudhury
- Auditory Neurophysiology Laboratory, Department of Neuroscience Psychology & Behaviour College of Life Sciences University of Leicester Leicester LE1 7RH UK
| | - Deborah Linley
- Auditory Neurophysiology Laboratory, Department of Neuroscience Psychology & Behaviour College of Life Sciences University of Leicester Leicester LE1 7RH UK
| | - Amy Richardson
- Auditory Neurophysiology Laboratory, Department of Neuroscience Psychology & Behaviour College of Life Sciences University of Leicester Leicester LE1 7RH UK
| | - Michelle Anderson
- Auditory Neurophysiology Laboratory, Department of Neuroscience Psychology & Behaviour College of Life Sciences University of Leicester Leicester LE1 7RH UK
| | - Susan W. Robinson
- Neurotoxicity at the Synaptic Interface MRC Toxicology Unit University of Leicester, UK
| | - Vincenzo Marra
- Department of Neuroscience Psychology & Behaviour College of Life Sciences University of Leicester Leicester LE1 7RH UK
| | - Victoria Ciampani
- Auditory Neurophysiology Laboratory, Department of Neuroscience Psychology & Behaviour College of Life Sciences University of Leicester Leicester LE1 7RH UK
| | - Sophie M. Walter
- Auditory Neurophysiology Laboratory, Department of Neuroscience Psychology & Behaviour College of Life Sciences University of Leicester Leicester LE1 7RH UK
| | - Conny Kopp‐Scheinpflug
- Division of Neurobiology Department Biology II Ludwig‐Maximilians‐University Munich Großhaderner Strasse 2 Planegg‐Martinsried D‐82152 Germany
| | - Joern R. Steinert
- Auditory Neurophysiology Laboratory, Department of Neuroscience Psychology & Behaviour College of Life Sciences University of Leicester Leicester LE1 7RH UK
| | - Ian D. Forsythe
- Auditory Neurophysiology Laboratory, Department of Neuroscience Psychology & Behaviour College of Life Sciences University of Leicester Leicester LE1 7RH UK
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Modulators of Kv3 Potassium Channels Rescue the Auditory Function of Fragile X Mice. J Neurosci 2019; 39:4797-4813. [PMID: 30936239 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.0839-18.2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2018] [Revised: 03/15/2019] [Accepted: 03/26/2019] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Fragile X syndrome (FXS) is characterized by hypersensitivity to sensory stimuli, including environmental sounds. We compared the auditory brainstem response (ABR) recorded in vivo in mice lacking the gene (Fmr1 -/y ) for fragile X mental retardation protein (FMRP) with that in wild-type animals. We found that ABR wave I, which represents input from the auditory nerve, is reduced in Fmr1 -/y animals, but only at high sound levels. In contrast, wave IV, which represents the activity of auditory brainstem nuclei is enhanced at all sound levels, suggesting that loss of FMRP alters the central processing of auditory signals. Current-clamp recordings of neurons in the medial nucleus of the trapezoid body in the auditory brainstem revealed that, in contrast to neurons from wild-type animals, sustained depolarization triggers repetitive firing rather than a single action potential. In voltage-clamp recordings, K+ currents that activate at positive potentials ("high-threshold" K+ currents), which are required for high-frequency firing and are carried primarily by Kv3.1 channels, are elevated in Fmr1 -/y mice, while K+ currents that activate near the resting potential and inhibit repetitive firing are reduced. We therefore tested the effects of AUT2 [((4-({5-[(4R)-4-ethyl-2,5-dioxo-1-imidazolidinyl]-2-pyridinyl}oxy)-2-(1-methylethyl) benzonitrile], a compound that modulates Kv3.1 channels. AUT2 reduced the high-threshold K+ current and increased the low-threshold K+ currents in neurons from Fmr1 -/y animals by shifting the activation of the high-threshold current to more negative potentials. This reduced the firing rate and, in vivo, restored wave IV of the ABR. Our results from animals of both sexes suggest that the modulation of the Kv3.1 channel may have potential for the treatment of sensory hypersensitivity in patients with FXS.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT mRNA encoding the Kv3.1 potassium channel was one of the first described targets of the fragile X mental retardation protein (FMRP). Fragile X syndrome is caused by loss of FMRP and, in humans and mice, causes hypersensitivity to auditory stimuli. We found that components of the auditory brain response (ABR) corresponding to auditory brainstem activity are enhanced in mice lacking FMRP. This is accompanied by hyperexcitability and altered potassium currents in auditory brainstem neurons. Treatment with a drug that alters the voltage dependence of Kv3.1 channels normalizes the imbalance of potassium currents, as well as ABR responses in vivo, suggesting that such compounds may be effective in treating some symptoms of fragile X syndrome.
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Munch AS, Saljic A, Boddum K, Grunnet M, Hougaard C, Jespersen T. Pharmacological rescue of mutated Kv3.1 ion-channel linked to progressive myoclonus epilepsies. Eur J Pharmacol 2018; 833:255-262. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2018.06.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2018] [Revised: 06/07/2018] [Accepted: 06/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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12
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Olsen T, Capurro A, Pilati N, Large CH, Hamann M. Kv3 K + currents contribute to spike-timing in dorsal cochlear nucleus principal cells. Neuropharmacology 2018; 133:319-333. [PMID: 29421326 PMCID: PMC5869058 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2018.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2017] [Revised: 02/01/2018] [Accepted: 02/04/2018] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Exposure to loud sound increases burst-firing of dorsal cochlear nucleus (DCN) fusiform cells in the auditory brainstem, which has been suggested to be an electrophysiological correlate of tinnitus. The altered activity of DCN fusiform cells may be due to down-regulation of high voltage-activated (Kv3-like) K+ currents. Whole cell current-clamp recordings were obtained from DCN fusiform cells in brain slices from P15-P18 CBA mice. We first studied whether acoustic over-exposure (performed at P15) or pharmacological inhibition of K+ currents with tetraethylamonium (TEA) affect fusiform cell action potential characteristics, firing frequency and spike-timing relative to evoking current stimuli. We then tested whether AUT1, a modulator of Kv3 K+ currents reverses the effects of sound exposure or TEA. Both loud sound exposure and TEA decreased the amplitude of action potential after-hyperpolarization, reduced the maximum firing frequency, and disrupted spike-timing. These treatments also increased post-synaptic voltage fluctuations at baseline. AUT1 applied in the presence of TEA or following acoustic over-exposure, did not affect the firing frequency, but enhanced action potential after-hyperpolarization, prevented the increased voltage fluctuations and restored spike-timing. Furthermore AUT1 prevented the occurrence of bursts. Our study shows that the effect on spike-timing is significantly correlated with the amplitude of the action potential after-hyperpolarization and the voltage fluctuations at baseline. In conclusion, modulation of putative Kv3 K+ currents may restore regular spike-timing of DCN fusiform cell firing following noise exposure, and could provide a means to restore deficits in temporal encoding observed during noise-induced tinnitus. Whole cell recordings were performed in dorsal cochlear nucleus fusiform cells. Spike-timing is dependent on the action potential after-hyperpolarization. Spike-timing is dependent on synaptic baseline voltage fluctuations. Inhibition of K+ currents using TEA or acoustic over-exposure disrupt spike-timing. AUT1, a Kv3.1/3.2 K+ current modulator, counteracts the disruptive effects on spike-timing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy Olsen
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology and Behaviour, University of Leicester, University Road, Leicester LE1 7RH, UK
| | - Alberto Capurro
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology and Behaviour, University of Leicester, University Road, Leicester LE1 7RH, UK
| | - Nadia Pilati
- Autifony Srl, Via Ugo Bassi 58b, Universita' di Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Charles H Large
- Autifony Therapeutics Ltd, Stevenage Bioscience Catalyst, Gunnels Wood Road, Stevenage, SG1 2FX, UK
| | - Martine Hamann
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology and Behaviour, University of Leicester, University Road, Leicester LE1 7RH, UK.
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13
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Kaczmarek LK, Zhang Y. Kv3 Channels: Enablers of Rapid Firing, Neurotransmitter Release, and Neuronal Endurance. Physiol Rev 2017; 97:1431-1468. [PMID: 28904001 PMCID: PMC6151494 DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00002.2017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2017] [Revised: 04/24/2017] [Accepted: 05/05/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The intrinsic electrical characteristics of different types of neurons are shaped by the K+ channels they express. From among the more than 70 different K+ channel genes expressed in neurons, Kv3 family voltage-dependent K+ channels are uniquely associated with the ability of certain neurons to fire action potentials and to release neurotransmitter at high rates of up to 1,000 Hz. In general, the four Kv3 channels Kv3.1-Kv3.4 share the property of activating and deactivating rapidly at potentials more positive than other channels. Each Kv3 channel gene can generate multiple protein isoforms, which contribute to the high-frequency firing of neurons such as auditory brain stem neurons, fast-spiking GABAergic interneurons, and Purkinje cells of the cerebellum, and to regulation of neurotransmitter release at the terminals of many neurons. The different Kv3 channels have unique expression patterns and biophysical properties and are regulated in different ways by protein kinases. In this review, we cover the function, localization, and modulation of Kv3 channels and describe how levels and properties of the channels are altered by changes in ongoing neuronal activity. We also cover how the protein-protein interaction of these channels with other proteins affects neuronal functions, and how mutations or abnormal regulation of Kv3 channels are associated with neurological disorders such as ataxias, epilepsies, schizophrenia, and Alzheimer's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonard K Kaczmarek
- Departments of Pharmacology and of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Yalan Zhang
- Departments of Pharmacology and of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
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Bassetto Junior CAZ, Varanda WA, González ERP. 4-Chloro-3-nitro-N-butylbenzenesulfonamide acts on K V3.1 channels by an open-channel blocker mechanism. Amino Acids 2017; 49:1895-1906. [PMID: 28900735 DOI: 10.1007/s00726-017-2488-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2017] [Accepted: 09/07/2017] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
The effects of 4-chloro-3-nitro-N-butylbenzenesulfonamide (SMD2) on KV3.1 channels, heterologous expressed in L-929 cells, were studied with the whole cell patch-clamp technique. SMD2 blocks KV3.1 in a reversible and use-dependent manner, with IC50 around 10 µM, and a Hill coefficient around 2. Although the conductance vs. voltage relationship in control condition can be described by a single Boltzmann function, two terms are necessary to describe the data in the presence of SMD2. The activation and deactivation time constants are weakly voltage dependent both for control and in the presence of SMD2. SMD2 does not change the channel selectivity and tail currents show a typical crossover phenomenon. The time course of inactivation has a fast and a slow component, and SMD2 significantly decreased their values. Steady-state inactivation is best described by a Boltzmann equation with V 1/2 (the voltage where the probability to find the channels in the inactivated state is 50%) and K (slope factor) equals to -22.9 ± 1.5 mV and 5.3 ± 0.9 mV for control, and -30.3 ± 1.3 mV and 6 ± 0.8 mV for SMD2, respectively. The action of SMD2 is enhanced by high frequency stimulation, and by the time the channel stays open. Taken together, our results suggest that SMD2 blocks the open conformation of KV3.1. From a pharmacological and therapeutic point of view, N-alkylsulfonamides may constitute a new class of pharmacological modulators of KV3.1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos Alberto Zanutto Bassetto Junior
- Fine Organic Chemistry Laboratory, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Faculty of Science and Technology, São Paulo State University (Unesp)-Campus of Presidente Prudente, Presidente Prudente, SP, Brazil. .,Post-Graduate Program in Science and Material Technology, Presidente Prudente, SP, Brazil.
| | - Wamberto Antonio Varanda
- Department of Physiology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Eduardo René Pérez González
- Fine Organic Chemistry Laboratory, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Faculty of Science and Technology, São Paulo State University (Unesp)-Campus of Presidente Prudente, Presidente Prudente, SP, Brazil.,Post-Graduate Program in Science and Material Technology, Presidente Prudente, SP, Brazil
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15
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Thelin J, Halje P, Nielsen J, Didriksen M, Petersson P, Bastlund JF. The translationally relevant mouse model of the 15q13.3 microdeletion syndrome reveals deficits in neuronal spike firing matching clinical neurophysiological biomarkers seen in schizophrenia. Acta Physiol (Oxf) 2017; 220:124-136. [PMID: 27364459 PMCID: PMC5412918 DOI: 10.1111/apha.12746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2016] [Revised: 04/18/2016] [Accepted: 06/29/2016] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Aim To date, the understanding and development of novel treatments for mental illness is hampered by inadequate animal models. For instance, it is unclear to what extent commonly used behavioural tests in animals can inform us on the mental and affective aspects of schizophrenia. Methods To link pathophysiological processes in an animal model to clinical findings, we have here utilized the recently developed Df(h15q13)/+ mouse model for detailed investigations of cortical neuronal engagement during pre‐attentive processing of auditory information from two back‐translational auditory paradigms. We also investigate if compromised putative fast‐spiking interneurone (FSI) function can be restored through pharmacological intervention using the Kv3.1 channel opener RE1. Chronic multi‐array electrodes in primary auditory cortex were used to record single cell firing from putative pyramidal and FSI in awake animals during processing of auditory sensory information. Results We find a decreased amplitude in the response to auditory stimuli and reduced recruitment of neurones to fast steady‐state gamma oscillatory activity. These results resemble encephalography recordings in patients with schizophrenia. Furthermore, the probability of interneurones to fire with low interspike intervals during 80 Hz auditory stimulation was reduced in Df(h15q13)/+ mice, an effect that was partially reversed by the Kv3.1 channel modulator, RE1. Conclusion This study offers insight into the consequences on a neuronal level of carrying the 15q13.3 microdeletion. Furthermore, it points to deficient functioning of interneurones as a potential pathophysiological mechanism in schizophrenia and suggests a therapeutic potential of Kv3.1 channel openers.
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Affiliation(s)
- J. Thelin
- Neuroscience Research DK; H. Lundbeck A/S; Valby Denmark
- Neuronano Research Center; Lund University; Lund Sweden
| | - P. Halje
- Neuronano Research Center; Lund University; Lund Sweden
- Integrative Neurophysiology and Neurotechnology; Lund University; Lund Sweden
| | - J. Nielsen
- Neuroscience Research DK; H. Lundbeck A/S; Valby Denmark
| | - M. Didriksen
- Neuroscience Research DK; H. Lundbeck A/S; Valby Denmark
| | - P. Petersson
- Neuronano Research Center; Lund University; Lund Sweden
- Integrative Neurophysiology and Neurotechnology; Lund University; Lund Sweden
| | - J. F. Bastlund
- Neuroscience Research DK; H. Lundbeck A/S; Valby Denmark
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16
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Boddum K, Hougaard C, Xiao-Ying Lin J, von Schoubye NL, Jensen HS, Grunnet M, Jespersen T. K v3.1/K v3.2 channel positive modulators enable faster activating kinetics and increase firing frequency in fast-spiking GABAergic interneurons. Neuropharmacology 2017; 118:102-112. [PMID: 28242439 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2017.02.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2016] [Revised: 01/26/2017] [Accepted: 02/22/2017] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Due to their fast kinetic properties, Kv3.1 voltage gated potassium channels are important in setting and controlling firing frequency in neurons and pivotal in generating high frequency firing of interneurons. Pharmacological activation of Kv3.1 channels may possess therapeutic potential for treatment of epilepsy, hearing disorders, schizophrenia and cognitive impairments. Here we thoroughly investigate the selectivity and positive modulation of the two small molecules, EX15 and RE01, on Kv3 channels. Selectivity studies, conducted in Xenopus laevis oocytes confirmed a positive modulatory effect of the two compounds on Kv3.1 and to a minor extent on Kv3.2 channels. RE01 had no effect on the Kv3.3 and Kv3.4 channels, whereas EX15 had an inhibitory impact on the Kv3.4 mediated current. Voltage-clamp experiments in monoclonal hKv3.1b/HEK293 cells (34 °C) revealed that the two compounds indeed induced larger currents and faster activation kinetics. They also decrease the speed of deactivation and shifted the voltage dependence of activation, to a more negative activation threshold. Application of action potential clamping and repetitive stimulation protocols of hKv3.1b expressing HEK293 cells revealed that EX15 and RE01 significantly increased peak amplitude, half width and decay time of Kv3.1 mediated currents, even during high-frequency action potential clamping (250 Hz). In rat hippocampal slices, EX15 and RE01 increased neuronal excitability in fast-spiking interneurons in dentate gyrus. Action potential frequency was prominently increased at minor depolarizing steps, whereas more marginal effects of EX15 and RE01 were observed after stronger depolarizations. In conclusion, our results suggest that EX15 and RE01 positive modulation of Kv3.1 and Kv3.2 currents facilitate increased firing frequency in fast-spiking GABAergic interneurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kim Boddum
- Cardiac Physiology Laboratory, University of Copenhagen, Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Blegdamsvej 3B, DK-2200 Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Charlotte Hougaard
- Synaptic Transmission In vitro, H. Lundbeck A/S, Ottiliavej 9, DK-2500 Valby, Denmark
| | - Julie Xiao-Ying Lin
- Cardiac Physiology Laboratory, University of Copenhagen, Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Blegdamsvej 3B, DK-2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Nadia Lybøl von Schoubye
- Cardiac Physiology Laboratory, University of Copenhagen, Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Blegdamsvej 3B, DK-2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Henrik Sindal Jensen
- Synaptic Transmission In vitro, H. Lundbeck A/S, Ottiliavej 9, DK-2500 Valby, Denmark
| | - Morten Grunnet
- Synaptic Transmission In vitro, H. Lundbeck A/S, Ottiliavej 9, DK-2500 Valby, Denmark
| | - Thomas Jespersen
- Cardiac Physiology Laboratory, University of Copenhagen, Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Blegdamsvej 3B, DK-2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
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17
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Brown MR, El-Hassar L, Zhang Y, Alvaro G, Large CH, Kaczmarek LK. Physiological modulators of Kv3.1 channels adjust firing patterns of auditory brain stem neurons. J Neurophysiol 2016; 116:106-21. [PMID: 27052580 DOI: 10.1152/jn.00174.2016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2016] [Accepted: 04/04/2016] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Many rapidly firing neurons, including those in the medial nucleus of the trapezoid body (MNTB) in the auditory brain stem, express "high threshold" voltage-gated Kv3.1 potassium channels that activate only at positive potentials and are required for stimuli to generate rapid trains of actions potentials. We now describe the actions of two imidazolidinedione derivatives, AUT1 and AUT2, which modulate Kv3.1 channels. Using Chinese hamster ovary cells stably expressing rat Kv3.1 channels, we found that lower concentrations of these compounds shift the voltage of activation of Kv3.1 currents toward negative potentials, increasing currents evoked by depolarization from typical neuronal resting potentials. Single-channel recordings also showed that AUT1 shifted the open probability of Kv3.1 to more negative potentials. Higher concentrations of AUT2 also shifted inactivation to negative potentials. The effects of lower and higher concentrations could be mimicked in numerical simulations by increasing rates of activation and inactivation respectively, with no change in intrinsic voltage dependence. In brain slice recordings of mouse MNTB neurons, both AUT1 and AUT2 modulated firing rate at high rates of stimulation, a result predicted by numerical simulations. Our results suggest that pharmaceutical modulation of Kv3.1 currents represents a novel avenue for manipulation of neuronal excitability and has the potential for therapeutic benefit in the treatment of hearing disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maile R Brown
- Department of Pharmacology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Lynda El-Hassar
- Department of Pharmacology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Yalan Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Giuseppe Alvaro
- Autifony SRL, Verona, Italy; and Autifony Therapeutics Limited, Imperial College Incubator, London, United Kingdom
| | - Charles H Large
- Autifony SRL, Verona, Italy; and Autifony Therapeutics Limited, Imperial College Incubator, London, United Kingdom
| | - Leonard K Kaczmarek
- Department of Pharmacology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut;
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