Proton modulation of functionally distinct GABAA receptors in acutely isolated pyramidal neurons of rat hippocampus

SLC4A10 mutation causes a neurological disorder associated with impaired GABAergic transmission

SLC4A10 is a plasma-membrane bound transporter that utilizes the Na+ gradient to drive cellular HCO3- uptake, thus mediating acid extrusion. In the mammalian brain, SLC4A10 is expressed in principal neurons and interneurons, as well as in epithelial cells of the choroid plexus, the organ regulating the production of CSF. Using next generation sequencing on samples from five unrelated families encompassing nine affected individuals, we show that biallelic SLC4A10 loss-of-function variants cause a clinically recognizable neurodevelopmental disorder in humans. The cardinal clinical features of the condition include hypotonia in infancy, delayed psychomotor development across all domains and intellectual impairment. Affected individuals commonly display traits associated with autistic spectrum disorder including anxiety, hyperactivity and stereotyped movements. In two cases isolated episodes of seizures were reported in the first few years of life, and a further affected child displayed bitemporal epileptogenic discharges on EEG without overt clinical seizures. While occipitofrontal circumference was reported to be normal at birth, progressive postnatal microcephaly evolved in 7 out of 10 affected individuals. Neuroradiological features included a relative preservation of brain volume compared to occipitofrontal circumference, characteristic narrow sometimes 'slit-like' lateral ventricles and corpus callosum abnormalities. Slc4a10 -/- mice, deficient for SLC4A10, also display small lateral brain ventricles and mild behavioural abnormalities including delayed habituation and alterations in the two-object novel object recognition task. Collapsed brain ventricles in both Slc4a10-/- mice and affected individuals suggest an important role of SLC4A10 in the production of the CSF. However, it is notable that despite diverse roles of the CSF in the developing and adult brain, the cortex of Slc4a10-/- mice appears grossly intact. Co-staining with synaptic markers revealed that in neurons, SLC4A10 localizes to inhibitory, but not excitatory, presynapses. These findings are supported by our functional studies, which show the release of the inhibitory neurotransmitter GABA is compromised in Slc4a10-/- mice, while the release of the excitatory neurotransmitter glutamate is preserved. Manipulation of intracellular pH partially rescues GABA release. Together our studies define a novel neurodevelopmental disorder associated with biallelic pathogenic variants in SLC4A10 and highlight the importance of further analyses of the consequences of SLC4A10 loss-of-function for brain development, synaptic transmission and network properties.

Computational Investigation of Mechanisms for pH Modulation of Human Chloride Channels

Many transmembrane proteins are modulated by intracellular or extracellular pH. Investigation of pH dependence generally proceeds by mutagenesis of a wide set of amino acids, guided by properties such as amino-acid conservation and structure. Prediction of pKas can streamline this process, allowing rapid and effective identification of amino acids of interest with respect to pH dependence. Commencing with the calcium-activated chloride channel bestrophin 1, the carboxylate ligand structure around calcium sites relaxes in the absence of calcium, consistent with a measured lack of pH dependence. By contrast, less relaxation in the absence of calcium in TMEM16A, and maintenance of elevated carboxylate sidechain pKas, is suggested to give rise to pH-dependent chloride channel activity. This hypothesis, modulation of calcium/proton coupling and pH-dependent activity through the extent of structural relaxation, is shown to apply to the well-characterised cytosolic proteins calmodulin (pH-independent) and calbindin D9k (pH-dependent). Further application of destabilised, ionisable charge sites, or electrostatic frustration, is made to other human chloride channels (that are not calcium-activated), ClC-2, GABAA, and GlyR. Experimentally determined sites of pH modulation are readily identified. Structure-based tools for pKa prediction are freely available, allowing users to focus on mutagenesis studies, construct hypothetical proton pathways, and derive hypotheses such as the model for control of pH-dependent calcium activation through structural flexibility. Predicting altered pH dependence for mutations in ion channel disorders can support experimentation and, ultimately, clinical intervention.

Carbonic Anhydrase Inhibitors and Epilepsy: State of the Art and Future Perspectives

Carbonic anhydrases (CAs) are a group of ubiquitously expressed metalloenzymes that catalyze the reversible hydration/dehydration of CO₂/HCO₃. Thus, they are involved in those physiological and pathological processes in which cellular pH buffering plays a relevant role. The inhibition of CAs has pharmacologic applications for several diseases. In addition to the well-known employment of CA inhibitors (CAIs) as diuretics and antiglaucoma drugs, it has recently been demonstrated that CAIs could be considered as valid therapeutic agents against obesity, cancer, kidney dysfunction, migraine, Alzheimer's disease and epilepsy. Epilepsy is a chronic brain disorder that dramatically affects people of all ages. It is characterized by spontaneous recurrent seizures that are related to a rapid change in ionic composition, including an increase in intracellular potassium concentration and pH shifts. It has been reported that CAs II, VII and XIV are implicated in epilepsy. In this context, selective CAIs towards the mentioned isoforms (CAs II, VII and XIV) have been proposed and actually exploited as anticonvulsants agents in the treatment of epilepsy. Here, we describe the research achievements published on CAIs, focusing on those clinically used as anticonvulsants. In particular, we examine the new CAIs currently under development that might represent novel therapeutic options for the treatment of epilepsy.

The β2 subunit E155 residue as a proton sensor at the binding site on GABA type A receptors

GABA type A receptor plays a key role in inhibitory signaling in the adult central nervous system. This receptor can be modulated by protons but the underlying molecular mechanisms have not been fully explored. To find possible pH-sensor residues, a comparative study for proton-activated GLIC channel and α₁β₂γ₂ GABA receptor was performed and pK 's of respective residues were estimated by numerical algorithms which consider local interactions. β E155, located at the GABA binding site, showed pK_a values close to physiological values and dependence on the receptor state and ligation, suggesting a role in modulation by pH. To validate this prediction, pH sensitivity of current responses to GABA was investigated using patch-clamp technique for WT and mutated (β₂E155[C, S, Q, L]) GABA receptors. Cysteine mutation preserved pH sensitivity. However, for remaining mutants, the sensitivity to acidification (pH = 6.0) was reduced becoming not statistically significant. The effect of alkaline pH (8.0) was maintained for all mutants with exception for β₂E155L for which it was nearly abolished. To further explore the impact of considered mutations, molecular docking was performed which indicated that pH modulation is probably affected by interplay between binding site residues, zwitterion GABA and protons. These data, altogether, indicate that mutation of β₂E155 to hydrophobic residue (L) maximally impaired pH modulation while for polar substitutions the effect was smaller. In conclusion, our data provide evidence that a key binding site residue β₂E155 plays an important role in proton sensitivity of GABA receptor.

Carbogen inhalation during non-convulsive status epilepticus: A quantitative exploratory analysis of EEG recordings

Objective

To quantify the effect of inhaled 5% carbon-dioxide/95% oxygen on EEG recordings from patients in non-convulsive status epilepticus (NCSE).

Methods

Five children of mixed aetiology in NCSE were given high flow of inhaled carbogen (5% carbon dioxide/95% oxygen) using a face mask for maximum 120s. EEG was recorded concurrently in all patients. The effects of inhaled carbogen on patient EEG recordings were investigated using band-power, functional connectivity and graph theory measures. Carbogen effect was quantified by measuring effect size (Cohen’s d) between “before”, “during” and “after” carbogen delivery states.

Results

Carbogen’s apparent effect on EEG band-power and network metrics across all patients for “before-during” and “before-after” inhalation comparisons was inconsistent across the five patients.

Conclusion

The changes in different measures suggest a potentially non-homogeneous effect of carbogen on the patients’ EEG. Different aetiology and duration of the inhalation may underlie these non-homogeneous effects. Tuning the carbogen parameters (such as ratio between CO₂ and O₂, duration of inhalation) on a personalised basis may improve seizure suppression in future.

Interstitial ions: A key regulator of state-dependent neural activity?

Throughout the nervous system, ion gradients drive fundamental processes. Yet, the roles of interstitial ions in brain functioning is largely forgotten. Emerging literature is now revitalizing this area of neuroscience by showing that interstitial cations (K+, Ca2+ and Mg2+) are not static quantities but change dynamically across states such as sleep and locomotion. In turn, these state-dependent changes are capable of sculpting neuronal activity; for example, changing the local interstitial ion composition in the cortex is sufficient for modulating the prevalence of slow-frequency neuronal oscillations, or potentiating the gain of visually evoked responses. Disturbances in interstitial ionic homeostasis may also play a central role in the pathogenesis of central nervous system diseases. For example, impairments in K+ buffering occur in a number of neurodegenerative diseases, and abnormalities in neuronal activity in disease models disappear when interstitial K+ is normalized. Here we provide an overview of the roles of interstitial ions in physiology and pathology. We propose the brain uses interstitial ion signaling as a global mechanism to coordinate its complex activity patterns, and ion homeostasis failure contributes to central nervous system diseases affecting cognitive functions and behavior.

Activity- and pH-dependent adenosine shifts at the end of a focal seizure in the entorhinal cortex

Adenosine (ADO) is an endogenous modulator of neuronal excitability, with anticonvulsant and neuroprotective effects. It has been proposed that the activity-dependent release of ADO promoted by the extracellular acidification occurring during seizures contributes to seizure termination. To verify this hypothesis, we recorded field potentials, pH and ADO changes measured with enzymatic biosensors during acute focal seizures in the medial entorhinal cortex (mEC) of the isolated guinea-pig brain maintained in vitro. The effect of ADO on seizure-like events (SLEs) induced by GABAa receptor antagonism with bicuculline methiodide (BMI; 50 μM) was assessed by arterial applications of 1 mM ADO. ADO either reduced or prevented epileptiform activity. The A1 receptor antagonist DPCPX (100-500 μM) prolonged BMI-induced seizures and was able to precipitate SLEs in the absence of proconvulsant. Simultaneous recordings of brain activity, extracellular ADO and pH shifts demonstrated that ADO decreases at the onset and progressively rises toward the end of SLEs induced by either BMI or 4-aminopyridine (4AP; 50 μM), reaching maximal values 1-5 min after SLE termination. ADO changes were preceded by a SLE-dependent extracellular acid shift. Both pH acidification and ADO changes were abolished by 22 mM HEPES in the arterial perfusate. In these conditions, SLE duration was prolonged. Our data confirm that ADO plays a role in regulating brain excitability. Its increase depends on seizure-induced acid pH shift and it is maximal after the end of the SLE. These findings strongly suggest that ADO contributes to termination of focal seizures and to the establishment of the postictal depression.

Endogenous brain-sparing responses in brain pH and PO2 in a rodent model of birth asphyxia

AIM

To study brain-sparing physiological responses in a rodent model of birth asphyxia which reproduces the asphyxia-defining systemic hypoxia and hypercapnia.

METHODS

Steady or intermittent asphyxia was induced for 15-45 minutes in anaesthetized 6- and 11-days old rats and neonatal guinea pigs using gases containing 5% or 9% O₂ plus 20% CO₂ (in N₂ ). Hypoxia and hypercapnia were induced with low O₂ and high CO₂ respectively. Oxygen partial pressure (PO₂ ) and pH were measured with microsensors within the brain and subcutaneous ("body") tissue. Blood lactate was measured after asphyxia.

RESULTS

Brain and body PO₂ fell to apparent zero with little recovery during 5% O₂ asphyxia and 5% or 9% O₂ hypoxia, and increased more than twofold during 20% CO₂ hypercapnia. Unlike body PO₂ , brain PO₂ recovered rapidly to control after a transient fall (rat), or was slightly higher than control (guinea pig) during 9% O₂ asphyxia. Asphyxia (5% O₂ ) induced a respiratory acidosis paralleled by a progressive metabolic (lact)acidosis that was much smaller within than outside the brain. Hypoxia (5% O₂ ) produced a brain-confined alkalosis. Hypercapnia outlasting asphyxia suppressed pH recovery and prolonged the post-asphyxia PO₂ overshoot. All pH changes were accompanied by consistent shifts in the blood-brain barrier potential.

CONCLUSION

Regardless of brain maturation stage, hypercapnia can restore brain PO₂ and protect the brain against metabolic acidosis despite compromised oxygen availability during asphyxia. This effect extends to the recovery phase if normocapnia is restored slowly, and it is absent during hypoxia, demonstrating that exposure to hypoxia does not mimic asphyxia.

Extracellular pH modulation of excitatory synaptic transmission in hippocampal CA3 neurons

In this study, the effect of extracellular pH on glutamatergic synaptic transmission was examined in mechanically dissociated rat hippocampal CA3 pyramidal neurons using a whole-cell patch-clamp technique under voltage-clamp conditions. Native synaptic boutons were isolated without using any enzymes, using a so-called "synapse bouton preparation," and preserved for the electrical stimulation of single boutons. Both the frequency and amplitude of spontaneous excitatory postsynaptic currents (sEPSCs) were found to decrease and increase in response to modest acidic (~pH 6.5) and basic (~pH 8.5) solutions, respectively. These changes in sEPSC frequency were not affected by the addition of TTX but completely disappeared by successive addition of Cd²⁺. However, changes in sEPSC amplitude induced by acidic and basic extracellular solutions were not affected by the addition of neither TTX nor Cd²⁺. The glutamate-induced whole-cell currents were decreased and increased by acidic and basic solutions, respectively. Acidic pH also decreased the amplitude and increased the failure rate (R_f) and paired-pulse rate (PPR) of glutamatergic electrically evoked excitatory postsynaptic currents (eEPSCs), while a basic pH increased the amplitude and decreased both the R_f and PPR of eEPSCs. The kinetics of the currents were not affected by changes in pH. Acidic and basic solutions decreased and increased voltage-gated Ca²⁺ but not Na⁺ channel currents in the dentate gyrus granule cell bodies. Our results indicate that extracellular pH modulates excitatory transmission via both pre- and postsynaptic sites, with the presynaptic modulation correlated to changes in voltage-gated Ca²⁺ channel currents.NEW & NOTEWORTHY The effects of external pH changes on spontaneous, miniature, and evoked excitatory synaptic transmission in CA3 hippocampal synapses were examined using the isolated nerve bouton preparation, which allowed for the accurate regulation of extracellular pH at the synapses. Acidification generally reduced transmission, partly via effects on presynaptic Ca²⁺ channel currents, while alkalization generally enhanced transmission. Both pre- and postsynaptic sites contributed to these effects.

Protons modulate gating of recombinant α1β2γ2 GABAA receptor by affecting desensitization and opening transitions

Protons are potent modulators of GABA_A receptors (GABA_ARs) and α₁Phe64 residue was implicated in their pH sensitivity. Recently, we have demonstrated that this residue is involved in flipping transitions which precede channel opening. We thus re-addressed the mechanism of GABA_AR modulation by protons by considering the gating scheme extended by flipping. The impact of pH changes was examined on currents mediated by wild-type α₁β₂γ₂ receptors or by their α₁Phe64Leu or α₁Phe64Cys mutants and elicited by saturating concentrations of full (GABA) or partial (piperidine-4-sulfonic acid) agonists. To describe the impact of extracellular pH on receptor gating, we combined macroscopic analysis of currents elicited by rapid agonist applications with single-channel studies. Acidification (pH 6.0) increased current amplitudes (in the case of leucine mutants effect was stronger when P4S was used) and decreased the rate and the extent of desensitization whereas alkalization (pH 8.0) had the opposite but weaker effect. Deactivation kinetics for wild-type receptors was slowed down by acidification while in the case of mutants this effect was observed upon alkalization. Moreover, α₁Phe64 mutations enhanced GABA_AR sensitivity to alkaline pH. Single-channel analysis revealed that acidification prolonged burst durations and affected shut but not open time distributions. Model simulations for macroscopic and single-channel activity indicated a novel mechanism in which protons primarily affected opening and desensitization rates but not flipping/unflipping. This evidence for the impact of protons on the receptor gating together with previously demonstrated effect on the agonist binding, point to a complex effect of extracellular pH on GABA_AR macromolecule.

Methodological standards for in vitro models of epilepsy and epileptic seizures. A TASK1-WG4 report of the AES/ILAE Translational Task Force of the ILAE

In vitro preparations are a powerful tool to explore the mechanisms and processes underlying epileptogenesis and ictogenesis. In this review, we critically review the numerous in vitro methodologies utilized in epilepsy research. We provide support for the inclusion of detailed descriptions of techniques, including often ignored parameters with unpredictable yet significant effects on study reproducibility and outcomes. In addition, we explore how recent developments in brain slice preparation relate to their use as models of epileptic activity.

Tight Coupling of Astrocyte pH Dynamics to Epileptiform Activity Revealed by Genetically Encoded pH Sensors

Astrocytes can both sense and shape the evolution of neuronal network activity and are known to possess unique ion regulatory mechanisms. Here we explore the relationship between astrocytic intracellular pH dynamics and the synchronous network activity that occurs during seizure-like activity. By combining confocal and two-photon imaging of genetically encoded pH reporters with simultaneous electrophysiological recordings, we perform pH measurements in defined cell populations and relate these to ongoing network activity. This approach reveals marked differences in the intracellular pH dynamics between hippocampal astrocytes and neighboring pyramidal neurons in rodent in vitro models of epilepsy. With three different genetically encoded pH reporters, astrocytes are observed to alkalinize during epileptiform activity, whereas neurons are observed to acidify. In addition to the direction of pH change, the kinetics of epileptiform-associated intracellular pH transients are found to differ between the two cell types, with astrocytes displaying significantly more rapid changes in pH. The astrocytic alkalinization is shown to be highly correlated with astrocytic membrane potential changes during seizure-like events and mediated by an electrogenic Na(+)/HCO3 (-) cotransporter. Finally, comparisons across different cell-pair combinations reveal that astrocytic pH dynamics are more closely related to network activity than are neuronal pH dynamics. This work demonstrates that astrocytes exhibit distinct pH dynamics during periods of epileptiform activity, which has relevance to multiple processes including neurometabolic coupling and the control of network excitability.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT

Dynamic changes in intracellular ion concentrations are central to the initiation and progression of epileptic seizures. However, it is not known how changes in intracellular H(+) concentration (ie, pH) differ between different cell types during seizures. Using recently developed pH-sensitive proteins, we demonstrate that astrocytes undergo rapid alkalinization during periods of seizure-like activity, which is in stark contrast to the acidification that occurs in neighboring neurons. Rapid astrocytic pH changes are highly temporally correlated with seizure activity, are mediated by an electrogenic Na(+)/HCO3- cotransporter, and are more tightly coupled to network activity than are neuronal pH changes. As pH has profound effects on signaling in the nervous system, this work has implications for our understanding of seizure dynamics.

Acute neuroinflammation provokes intracellular acidification in mouse hippocampus

Background

Maintaining pH levels within the physiological norm is an important component of brain homeostasis. However, in some pathological or physiological conditions, the capacity of the pH regulatory system could be overpowered by various factors resulting in a transient or permanent alteration in pH levels. Such changes are often observed in pathological conditions associated with neuroinflammation. We hypothesized that neuroinflammation itself is a factor affecting pH levels in neural tissue. To assess this hypothesis, we examined the effects of acute LPS-induced neuroinflammation on intra- and extracellular pH (pHi and pHo) levels in the CA1 region of mouse hippocampus.

Methods

Acute neuroinflammation was induced using two approaches: (1) in vivo by i.p. injections of LPS (5 mg/kg) and (2) in vitro by incubating hippocampal slices of naïve animals in the LPS-containing media (1 μg/mL, 1 h at 35 °C). Standard techniques were used to prepare hippocampal slices. pHi was measured using ratiometric pH-sensitive fluorescent dye BCECF-AM. pHo was assessed using calibrated pH-sensitive micropipettes. The presence of neuroinflammation was verified with immunohistochemistry (IL-1β and Iba1) and ELISA (IL-1β and TNF-α).

Results

A significant reduction of pHi was observed in the slices of the LPS-injected 3-month-old (LPS 7.13 ± 0.03; Sal 7.22 ± 0.03; p = 0.043, r = 0.43) and 19-month-old (LPS 6.78 ± 0.08; Sal 7.13 ± 0.03; p = 0.0001, r = 0.32) mice. In contrast, the levels of pHo within the slice, measured in 19-month-old animals, were not affected (LPS 7.27 ± 0.02; Sal 7.26 ± 0.02; p = 0.6, r = 0.13). A reduction of pHi was also observed in the LPS-treated slices during the interval 3.5–7 h after the LPS exposure (LPS 6.92 ± 0.07; Veh 7.28 ± 0.05; p = 0.0001, r = 0.46).

Conclusions

Acute LPS-induced neuroinflammation results in a significant intracellular acidification of the CA1 neurons in mouse hippocampus, while the pHo remains largely unchanged. Such changes may represent a specific protective reaction of neural tissue in unfavorable external conditions or be a part of the pathological process.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12974-016-0747-8) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Comparison of kinetic and pharmacological profiles of recombinant α1γ2L and α1β2γ2L GABAA receptors - A clue to the role of intersubunit interactions

The fastest inhibitory mechanism in the CNS is mediated by ionotropic GABAA receptors and it is known that subunit composition critically determines their properties. While a typical GABAA receptor consists of two α, two β and one γ/δ subunit, there are some exceptions, e.g. αβ receptors. Functional α1γ2 GABAA receptors can be expressed in recombinant model (Verdoorn et al., 1990) and although their role remains unknown, it seems appealing to extend their characterization to further explore the structure-function relationship of GABAA receptors. Intriguingly, this receptor is lacking canonical GABA binding sites but it can be activated by GABA and dose-response relationships for α1β2γ2L and α1γ2L receptors overlap. Deactivation kinetics was similar for both receptors but the percentage of the fast component was smaller in the case of α1γ2L receptors and, consequently, the mean deactivation time constant was slower. The rate and extent of macroscopic desensitization were smaller in the case of α1γ2L receptors but they showed slower recovery. Both receptor types had a similar proton sensitivity showing only subtle but significant differences in pH effects on deactivation. Flurazepam exerted a similar effect on both receptors but the rapid deactivation components were differently affected and an opposite effect was observed on desensitization extent. Rebound currents evoked by pentobarbital were undistinguishable for both receptor types. Taking altogether, although some significant differences were found, α1β2γ2L and α1γ2L receptors showed unforeseen similarity. We propose that functioning of GABAA receptors might rely on subunit-subunit cooperative interactions to a larger extent than believed so far.

Ion dynamics during seizures

Changes in membrane voltage brought about by ion fluxes through voltage and transmitter-gated channels represent the basis of neural activity. As such, electrochemical gradients across the membrane determine the direction and driving force for the flow of ions and are therefore crucial in setting the properties of synaptic transmission and signal propagation. Ion concentration gradients are established by a variety of mechanisms, including specialized transporter proteins. However, transmembrane gradients can be affected by ionic fluxes through channels during periods of elevated neural activity, which in turn are predicted to influence the properties of on-going synaptic transmission. Such activity-induced changes to ion concentration gradients are a feature of both physiological and pathological neural processes. An epileptic seizure is an example of severely perturbed neural activity, which is accompanied by pronounced changes in intracellular and extracellular ion concentrations. Appreciating the factors that contribute to these ion dynamics is critical if we are to understand how a seizure event evolves and is sustained and terminated by neural tissue. Indeed, this issue is of significant clinical importance as status epilepticus—a type of seizure that does not stop of its own accord—is a life-threatening medical emergency. In this review we explore how the transmembrane concentration gradient of the six major ions (K⁺, Na⁺, Cl⁻, Ca²⁺, H⁺and HCO3−) is altered during an epileptic seizure. We will first examine each ion individually, before describing how multiple interacting mechanisms between ions might contribute to concentration changes and whether these act to prolong or terminate epileptic activity. In doing so, we will consider how the availability of experimental techniques has both advanced and restricted our ability to study these phenomena.

Carbonic anhydrases and brain pH in the control of neuronal excitability

H(+) ions are remarkably efficient modulators of neuronal excitability. This renders brain functions highly sensitive to small changes in pH which are generated "extrinsically" via mechanisms that regulate the acid-base status of the whole organism; and "intrinsically", by activity-induced transmembrane fluxes and de novo generation of acid-base equivalents. The effects of pH changes on neuronal excitability are mediated by diverse, largely synergistically-acting mechanisms operating at the level of voltage- and ligand-gated ion channels and gap junctions. In general, alkaline shifts induce an increase in excitability which is often intense enough to trigger epileptiform activity, while acidosis has the opposite effect. Brain pH changes show a wide variability in their spatiotemporal properties, ranging from long-lasting global shifts to fast and highly localized transients that take place in subcellular microdomains. Thirteen catalytically-active mammalian carbonic anhydrase isoforms have been identified, whereof 11 are expressed in the brain. Distinct CA isoforms which have their catalytic sites within brain cells and the interstitial fluid exert a remarkably strong influence on the dynamics of pH shifts and, consequently, on neuronal functions. In this review, we will discuss the various roles of H(+) as an intra- and extracellular signaling factor in the brain, focusing on the effects mediated by CAs. Special attention is paid on the developmental expression patterns and actions of the neuronal isoform, CA VII. Studies on the various functions of CAs will shed light on fundamental mechanisms underlying neuronal development, signaling and plasticity; on pathophysiological mechanisms associated with epilepsy and related diseases; and on the modes of action of CA inhibitors used as CNS-targeting drugs.

Fast micro-iontophoresis of glutamate and GABA: a useful tool to investigate synaptic integration

One of the fundamental interests in neuroscience is to understand the integration of excitatory and inhibitory inputs along the very complex structure of the dendritic tree, which eventually leads to neuronal output of action potentials at the axon. The influence of diverse spatial and temporal parameters of specific synaptic input on neuronal output is currently under investigation, e.g. the distance-dependent attenuation of dendritic inputs, the location-dependent interaction of spatially segregated inputs, the influence of GABAergig inhibition on excitatory integration, linear and non-linear integration modes, and many more. With fast micro-iontophoresis of glutamate and GABA it is possible to precisely investigate the spatial and temporal integration of glutamatergic excitation and GABAergic inhibition. Critical technical requirements are either a triggered fluorescent lamp, light-emitting diode (LED), or a two-photon scanning microscope to visualize dendritic branches without introducing significant photo-damage of the tissue. Furthermore, it is very important to have a micro-iontophoresis amplifier that allows for fast capacitance compensation of high resistance pipettes. Another crucial point is that no transmitter is involuntarily released by the pipette during the experiment. Once established, this technique will give reliable and reproducible signals with a high neurotransmitter and location specificity. Compared to glutamate and GABA uncaging, fast iontophoresis allows using both transmitters at the same time but at very distant locations without limitation to the field of view. There are also advantages compared to focal electrical stimulation of axons: with micro-iontophoresis the location of the input site is definitely known and it is sure that only the neurotransmitter of interest is released. However it has to be considered that with micro-iontophoresis only the postsynapse is activated and presynaptic aspects of neurotransmitter release are not resolved. In this article we demonstrate how to set up micro-iontophoresis in brain slice experiments.

Neuronal carbonic anhydrase VII provides GABAergic excitatory drive to exacerbate febrile seizures

Brain carbonic anhydrases (CAs) are known to modulate neuronal signalling. Using a novel CA VII (Car7) knockout (KO) mouse as well as a CA II (Car2) KO and a CA II/VII double KO, we show that mature hippocampal pyramidal neurons are endowed with two cytosolic isoforms. CA VII is predominantly expressed by neurons starting around postnatal day 10 (P10). The ubiquitous isoform II is expressed in neurons at P20. Both isoforms enhance bicarbonate-driven GABAergic excitation during intense GABAA-receptor activation. P13-14 CA VII KO mice show behavioural manifestations atypical of experimental febrile seizures (eFS) and a complete absence of electrographic seizures. A low dose of diazepam promotes eFS in P13-P14 rat pups, whereas seizures are blocked at higher concentrations that suppress breathing. Thus, the respiratory alkalosis-dependent eFS are exacerbated by GABAergic excitation. We found that CA VII mRNA is expressed in the human cerebral cortex before the age when febrile seizures (FS) occur in children. Our data indicate that CA VII is a key molecule in age-dependent neuronal pH regulation with consequent effects on generation of FS.

Minireview: pH and synaptic transmission

As a general rule a rise in pH increases neuronal activity, whereas it is dampened by a fall of pH. Neuronal activity per se also challenges pH homeostasis by the increase of metabolic acid equivalents. Moreover, the negative membrane potential of neurons promotes the intracellular accumulation of protons. Synaptic key players such as glutamate receptors or voltage-gated calcium channels show strong pH dependence and effects of pH gradients on synaptic processes are well known. However, the processes and mechanisms that allow controlling the pH in synaptic structures and how these mechanisms contribute to normal synaptic function are only beginning to be resolved.

pH-dependent inhibition of native GABA(A) receptors by HEPES

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Artificial buffers such as HEPES are extensively used to control extracellular pH (pH(e) ) to investigate the effect of H(+) ions on GABA(A) receptor function.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

In neurones cultured from spinal cord dorsal horn (DH), dorsal root ganglia (DRG) and cerebellar granule cells (GC) of neonatal rats, we studied the effect of pH(e) on currents induced by GABA(A) receptor agonists, controlling pH(e) with HCO(3) (-) or different concentrations of HEPES.

KEY RESULTS

Changing HEPES concentration from 1 to 20 mM at constant pH(e) strongly inhibited the currents induced by submaximal GABA applications, but not those induced by glycine or glutamate, on DH, DRG or GC neurones, increasing twofold the EC(50) for GABA in DH neurones and GC. Submaximal GABA(A) receptor-mediated currents were also inhibited by piperazine-N,N'-bis(2-ethanesulfonic acid) (PIPES), 3-(N-morpholino)propanesulfonic acid, tris(hydroxymethyl)aminomethane or imidazole. PIPES and HEPES, both piperazine derivatives, similarly inhibited GABA(A) receptors, whereas the other buffers had weaker effects and 2-(N-morpholino)ethanesulfonic acid had no effect. HEPES-induced inhibition of submaximal GABA(A) receptor-mediated currents was unaffected by diethylpyrocarbonate, a histidine-modifying reagent. HEPES-induced inhibition of GABA(A) receptors was independent of membrane potential, HCO(3) (-) and intracellular Cl(-) concentration and was not modified by flumazenil, which blocks the benzodiazepine binding site. However, it strongly depended on pH(e) .

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

Inhibition of GABA(A) receptors by HEPES depended on pH(e) , leading to an apparent H(+) -induced inhibition of DH GABA(A) receptors, unrelated to the pH sensitivity of these receptors in both low and physiological buffering conditions, suggesting that protonated HEPES caused this inhibition.

Proton production, regulation and pathophysiological roles in the mammalian brain

The recent demonstration of proton signaling in C. elegans muscle contraction suggests a novel mechanism for proton-based intercellular communication and has stimulated enthusiasm for exploring proton signaling in higher organisms. Emerging evidence indicates that protons are produced and regulated in localized space and time. Furthermore, identification of proton regulators and sensors in the brain leads to the speculation that proton production and regulation may be of major importance for both physiological and pathological functions ranging from nociception to learning and memory. Extracellular protons may play a role in signal transmission by not only acting on adjacent cells but also affecting the cell from which they were released. In this review, we summarize the upstream and downstream pathways of proton production and regulation in the mammalian brain, with special emphasis on the proton extruders and sensors that are critical in the homeostatic regulation of pH, and discuss their potential roles in proton signaling under normal and pathophysiological conditions.

Identification of a nuclear carbonic anhydrase in Caenorhabditis elegans

BACKGROUND

Carbonic anhydrases (CA) catalyze the inter-conversion of CO(2) with HCO(3) and H(+), and are involved in a wide variety of physiologic processes such as anion transport, pH regulation, and water balance. In mammals there are sixteen members of the classical α-type CA family, while the simple genetic model organism Caenorhabditis elegans codes for six αCA isoforms (cah-1 through cah-6).

METHODS

Fluorescent reporter constructs were used to analyze gene promoter usage, splice variation, and protein localization in transgenic worms. Catalytic activity of recombinant CA proteins was assessed using Hansson's histochemistry. CA's ability to regulate pH as a function of CO(2) and HCO(3) was measured using dynamic fluorescent imaging of genetically-targeted biosensors.

RESULTS

Each of the six CA genes was found to be expressed in a distinct repertoire of cell types. Surprisingly, worms also expressed a catalytically-active CA splice variant, cah-4a, in which an alternative first exon targeted the protein to the nucleus. Cah-4a expression was restricted mainly to the nervous system, where it was found in nearly all neurons, and recombinant CAH-4A protein could regulate pH in the nucleus.

CONCLUSIONS

In addition to establishing C. elegans as a platform for studying αCA function, this is the first example of a nuclear-targeted αCA in any organism to date.

GENERAL SIGNIFICANCE

A classical αCA isoform is targeted exclusively to the nucleus where its activity may impact nuclear physiologic and pathophysiologic responses.

Impact of synaptic neurotransmitter concentration time course on the kinetics and pharmacological modulation of inhibitory synaptic currents

The time course of synaptic currents is a crucial determinant of rapid signaling between neurons. Traditionally, the mechanisms underlying the shape of synaptic signals are classified as pre- and post-synaptic. Over the last two decades, an extensive body of evidence indicated that synaptic signals are critically shaped by the neurotransmitter time course which encompasses several phenomena including pre- and post-synaptic ones. The agonist transient depends on neurotransmitter release mechanisms, diffusion within the synaptic cleft, spill-over to the extra-synaptic space, uptake, and binding to post-synaptic receptors. Most estimates indicate that the neurotransmitter transient is very brief, lasting between one hundred up to several hundreds of microseconds, implying that post-synaptic activation is characterized by a high degree of non-equilibrium. Moreover, pharmacological studies provide evidence that the kinetics of agonist transient plays a crucial role in setting the susceptibility of synaptic currents to modulation by a variety of compounds of physiological or clinical relevance. More recently, the role of the neurotransmitter time course has been emphasized by studies carried out on brain slice models that revealed a striking, cell-dependent variability of synaptic agonist waveforms ranging from rapid pulses to slow volume transmission. In the present paper we review the advances on studies addressing the impact of synaptic neurotransmitter transient on kinetics and pharmacological modulation of synaptic currents at inhibitory synapses.

Five percent CO₂ is a potent, fast-acting inhalation anticonvulsant

PURPOSE

CO₂ has been long recognized for its anticonvulsant properties. We aimed to determine whether inhaling 5% CO₂ can be used to suppress seizures in epilepsy patients. The effect of CO₂ on cortical epileptic activity accompanying behavioral seizures was studied in rats and nonhuman primates, and based on these data, preliminary tests were carried out in humans.

METHODS

  In freely moving rats, cortical afterdischarges paralleled by myoclonic convulsions were evoked by sensorimotor cortex stimulation. Five percent CO₂ was applied for 5 min, 3 min before stimulation. In macaque monkeys, hypercarbia was induced by hypoventilation while seizure activity was electrically or chemically evoked in the sensorimotor cortex. Seven patients with drug-resistant partial epilepsy were examined with video-EEG (electroencephalography) and received 5% CO₂ in medical carbogen shortly after electrographic seizure onset.

RESULTS

In rats, 5% CO₂ strongly suppressed cortical afterdischarges, by approximately 75%, whereas responses to single-pulse stimulation were reduced by about 15% only. In macaques, increasing pCO₂) from 37 to 44-45 mm Hg (corresponding to inhalation of 5% CO₂ or less) suppressed stimulation-induced cortical afterdischarges by about 70% and single, bicuculline-induced epileptiform spikes by approximately 25%. In a pilot trial carried out in seven patients, a rapid termination of electrographic seizures was seen despite the fact that the application of 5% CO₂ was started after seizure generalization.

CONCLUSIONS

Five percent CO₂ has a fast and potent anticonvulsant action. The present data suggest that medical carbogen with 5% CO₂ can be used for acute treatment to suppress seizures in epilepsy patients.

Synchronous GABA-receptor-dependent potentials in limbic areas of the in-vitro isolated adult guinea pig brain

Epileptiform discharges are known to reflect the hypersynchronous glutamatergic activation of cortical neurons. However, experimental evidence has revealed that epileptiform synchronization is also contributed to by population events mediated by GABA(A) receptors. Here, we analysed the spatial distribution of GABA(A)-receptor-dependent interictal events in the hippocampal/parahippocampal region of the adult guinea pig brain isolated in vitro. We found that arterial perfusion of this preparation with 4-aminopyridine caused the appearance of glutamatergic-independent interictal potentials that were reversibly abolished by GABA(A) receptor antagonism. Laminar profiles and current source density analysis performed in different limbic areas demonstrated that these GABA(A)-receptor-mediated events were independently generated in different areas of the hippocampal/parahippocampal formation (most often in the medial entorhinal cortex) and propagated between interconnected limbic structures of both hemispheres. Finally, intracellular recordings from principal neurons of the medial entorhinal cortex demonstrated that the GABAergic field potential correlated to inhibitory postsynaptic potentials (membrane potential reversal, -68.12 +/- 8.01 mV, n = 5) that were interrupted by ectopic spiking. Our findings demonstrate that, in an acute seizure model developed in the adult guinea pig brain, hypersynchronous GABA(A)-receptor-mediated interictal events are generated from independent sources and propagate within limbic cortices in the absence of excitatory synaptic transmission. As spared or enhanced inhibition was reported in models of epilepsy, our data may support a role of GABA-mediated signaling in ictogenesis and epileptogenesis.

Arresting a Seizure by Dropping a Little Acid

Seizure Termination by Acidosis Depends on ASIC1a. Ziemann AE, Schnizler MK, Albert GW, Severson MA, Howard MA 3rd, Welsh MJ, Wemmie JA. Nat Neurosci 2008;11(7):816–822. Most seizures stop spontaneously; however, the molecular mechanisms that terminate seizures remain unknown. Observations that seizures reduced brain pH and that acidosis inhibited seizures indicate that acidosis halts epileptic activity. Because acid-sensing ion channel 1a (ASIC1a) is exquisitely sensitive to extracellular pH and regulates neuron excitability, we hypothesized that acidosis might activate ASIC1a, which would terminate seizures. Disrupting mouse ASIC1a increased the severity of chemoconvulsant-induced seizures, whereas overexpressing ASIC1a had the opposite effect. ASIC1a did not affect seizure threshold or onset, but shortened seizure duration and prevented seizure progression. CO2 inhalation, long known to lower brain pH and inhibit seizures, required ASIC1a to interrupt tonic-clonic seizures. Acidosis activated inhibitory interneurons through ASIC1a, suggesting that ASIC1a might limit seizures by increasing inhibitory tone. Our results identify ASIC1a as an important element in seizure termination when brain pH falls and suggest both a molecular mechanism for how the brain stops seizures and new therapeutic strategies.

Adjunctive topiramate enhances the risk of hypothermia associated with valproic acid therapy

BACKGROUND

Topiramate was approved for the treatment of epilepsy in 1999 and has since been approved for the prevention of migraine headache. It is structurally different from the majority of antiepileptic medications and is pharmacodynamically unique in its ability to inhibit the enzyme carbonic anhydrase. Postmarketing reports of topiramate-associated hypothermia have occurred but this adverse event has not been well characterized. Data mining of an adverse event database was used to assist in the identification of hypothermia.

OBJECTIVE

We sought to explore a possible association between the concomitant use of topiramate and valproic acid and the induction of hypothermia.

METHODS

This was a pharmacovigilance case series survey of spontaneous hypothermia, a reported adverse event in patients treated with topiramate and valproic acid, alone and in combination. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration's Adverse Events Reporting System (AERS) database was searched for reports of hypothermia in association with the use of topiramate. A data mining algorithm was used on the AERS to identify scores for hypothermia associated with antiepileptic drugs.

RESULTS

We identified 22 unduplicated reports of hypothermia in patients exposed to topiramate. Three of the 22 were confounded by patient overdoses with multiple drugs and not considered. Use of more than one antiepileptic drug was reported in most of the remaining 19 reports. Of these 19 reports, valproic acid was mentioned in 7. Two of the 19 reports mentioned topiramate only. Eleven of the 19 patients were men. The median age of the 19 patients was 40 years (range, 3(1/2)-82 years). Body temperatures ranged from 29.5 degrees C (moderate hypothermia) to 35 degrees C (mild hypothermia) with a median of 34 degrees C. Eleven of 18 reports of hypothermia occurred during the cooler months (one report did not indicate the time of year in which hypothermia occurred). Comorbid conditions included hypothyroidism in six reports, five in patients who received valproic acid concomitantly with topiramate and five reports of hyperammonemia in similarly treated patients. Data mining scores (empirical Bayes geometric mean) for antiepileptic drugs ranged from a high of 5.845 for phenobarbital to 2.956 for gabapentin. Hypothermia was reported 4.7 times more frequently when topiramate was used than was statistically expected.

CONCLUSION

We have found hypothermia, defined as an unintentional drop in body core temperature to <35 degrees C, to be associated with concomitant administration of topiramate (a carbonic anhydrase inhibitor) and valproic acid in patients who have tolerated either drug alone. Data mining analysis for topiramate showed a signal of hypothermia. Topiramate was reported 4.72 times more frequently in the database than would be statistically expected when considering all other drugs. Topiramate may act pharmacodynamically to potentiate the effects of valproic acid as a result of its ability to decrease blood HCO(3) (-) and increase blood ammonia levels.

Na(+)/H(+) exchanger inhibition modifies dopamine neurotransmission during normal and metabolic stress conditions

Na(+)/H(+) exchanger (NHE) proteins are involved in intracellular pH and volume regulation and may indirectly influence neurotransmission. The abundant NHE isoform 1 (NHE1) has also been linked to brain cell damage during metabolic stress. It is not known, however, whether NHE1 or other NHE isoforms play a role in striatal dopamine (DA) neurotransmission under normal or metabolic stress conditions. Our study tested the hypothesis that NHE inhibition with cariporide mesilate (HOE-642) modifies striatal DA overflow and DAergic terminal damage in mice caused by the mitochondrial inhibitor malonate. We also explored the expression of NHE1-5 in the striatum and substantia nigra. Reverse microdialysis of HOE-642 elicited a transient elevation followed by a reduction in DA overflow accompanied by a decline in striatal DA content. HOE-642 pre-treatment diminished the malonate-induced DA overflow without reducing the intensity of the metabolic stress or subsequent DAergic axonal damage. Although NHE isoforms 1-5 are expressed in the striatum and midbrain, NHE1 protein was not co-located on nigrostriatal DAergic neurons. The absence of NHE1 co-location on DAergic neurons suggests that the effects of HOE-642 on striatal DA overflow are either mediated via NHE1 located on other cell types or that HOE-642 is acting through multiple NHE isoforms.

Characterization of human SLC4A10 as an electroneutral Na/HCO3 cotransporter (NBCn2) with Cl- self-exchange activity

The SLC4A10 gene product, commonly known as NCBE, is highly expressed in rodent brain and has been characterized by others as a Na(+)-driven Cl-HCO(3) exchanger. However, some of the earlier data are not consistent with Na(+)-driven Cl-HCO(3) exchange activity. In the present study, northern blot analysis showed that, also in humans, NCBE transcripts are predominantly expressed in brain. In some human NCBE transcripts, splice cassettes A and/or B, originally reported in rats and mice, are spliced out. In brain cDNA, we found evidence of a unique partial splice of cassette B that is predicted to produce an NCBE protein with a novel C terminus containing a protein kinase C phosphorylation site. We used pH-sensitive microelectrodes to study the molecular physiology of human NCBE expressed in Xenopus oocytes. In agreement with others we found that NCBE mediates the 4,4'-diisothiocyanato-stilbene-2,2'-disulfonic acid-sensitive, Na(+)-dependent transport of HCO(3)(-). For the first time, we demonstrated that this transport process is electroneutral. Using Cl(-)-sensitive microelectrodes positioned at the oocyte surface, we found that, unlike both human and squid Na(+)-driven Cl-HCO(3) exchangers, human NCBE does not normally couple the net influx of HCO(3)(-) to a net efflux of Cl(-). Moreover we found that that the (36)Cl efflux from NCBE-expressing oocytes, interpreted by others to be coupled to the influx of Na(+) and HCO(3)(-), actually represents a CO(2)/HCO(3)(-)-stimulated Cl(-) self-exchange not coupled to either Na(+) or net HCO(3)(-) transport. We propose to rename NCBE as the second electroneutral Na/HCO(3) cotransporter, NBCn2.

Regulation of pH in the mammalian central nervous system under normal and pathological conditions: facts and hypotheses

The maintenance of pH homeostasis in the CNS is of key importance for proper execution and regulation of neurotransmission, and deviations from this homeostasis are a crucial factor in the mechanism underlying a spectrum of pathological conditions. The first few sections of the review are devoted to the brain operating under normal conditions. The article commences with an overview of how extrinsic factors modelling the brain at work: neurotransmitters, depolarising stimuli (potassium and voltage changes) and cyclic nucleotides as major signal transducing vehicles affect pH in the CNS. Further, consequences of pH alterations on the major aspects of CNS function and metabolism are outlined. Next, the major cellular events involved in the transport, sequestration, metabolic production and buffering of protons that are common to all the mammalian cells, including the CNS cells. Since CNS function reflects tight interaction between astrocytes and neurons, the pH regulatory events pertinent to either cell type are discussed: overwhelming evidence implicates astrocytes as a key player in pH homeostasis in the brain. The different classes of membrane proteins involved in proton shuttling are listed and their mechanisms of action are given. These include: the Na+/H+ exchanger, different classes of bicarbonate transporters acting in a sodium-dependent- or -independent mode, monocarboxylic acid transporters and the vacuolar-type proton ATPase. A separate section is devoted to carbonic anhydrase, which is represented by multiple isoenzymes capable of pH buffering both in the cell interior and in the extracellular space. Next, impairment of pH regulation and compensatory responses occurring in brain affected by different pathologies: hypoxia/ischemia, epilepsy, hyperammonemic encephalopathies, cerebral tumours and HIV will be described. The review is limited to facts and plausible hypotheses pertaining to phenomena directly involved in pH regulation: changes in pH that accompany metabolic stress but have no distinct implications for the pH regulatory mechanisms are not dealt with. In most cases, the vast body of knowledge derived from in vitro studies remains to be verified in in vivo settings.

Extracellular proton modulates GABAergic synaptic transmission in rat hippocampal CA3 neurons

Acidification, which occurs in some pathological conditions, such as ischemia and hypoxia often induces neurotoxicity. The activation of acid-sensing ion channels (ASICs), which are highly permeable to calcium, has been considered the main target responsible for calcium overload in ischemic/hypoxic brain. However, the influence of extracellular proton on GABAergic synaptic transmission is not well understood. In the rat (aged 6-12 postnatal days) hippocampal CA3 neurons dissociated with an enzyme-free, mechanical method, we show that raising the extracellular pH (to 8.5) or lowering it (to 6.0) significantly increased or decreased, respectively, the frequency and the amplitude of spontaneous inhibitory postsynaptic currents mediated by gamma-aminobutyric acid A (GABA(A)) receptors. Interestingly, these modifications were not altered by amiloride (100 microM, an antagonist for ASICs), tetrodotoxin (0.5 microM, a sodium channel blocker), cadmium (100 microM, a nonselective blocker for voltage-gated calcium channels), or a medium containing low calcium (0.5 mM). Significantly, changes in extracellular pH biphasically altered the peak amplitude of the currents elicited by exogenous GABA in CA3 neurons dissociated with enzyme. Raising the extracellular pH (to 8.5) or lowering (to 6.5) shifted the concentration-response curves of GABA to the left or right, respectively, without altering the maximal responses. These data suggest that proton alters the apparent affinity of GABA receptors for agonist. Thus, extracellular proton modifies GABAergic synaptic transmission both presynaptically and postsynaptically, and this could be independent of ASICs and voltage-gated calcium channels. Our finding may constitute a new mechanism underlying acidification-induced neurotoxicity.

Identification of residues mediating inhibition of glycine receptors by protons

We previously identified H109 of the glycine alpha1 subunit as a putative proton binding site. In the present studies, we explored additional proton binding site(s) as well as the mechanism underlying modulation of glycine receptors by protons. Whole-cell glycine currents were recorded from HEK 293 cells transiently expressing wild type or mutant glycine receptors. Individual mutation of 3 of 4 remaining extracellular histidine residue into alanine (i.e., alpha1 H107A, H215A or H419A), reduced the receptor sensitivity to protons to a varying extent. In contrast, mutation of alpha1 H201A did not affect proton sensitivity. Double, triple or quadruple histidine mutation of these residues caused a further reduction of proton sensitivity, suggesting multiple binding sites for proton action on glycine receptors. Furthermore, the substitution T133A, which mediates Zn(2+) inhibition, virtually abolished the proton effect on peak amplitude and current kinetics of glycine response. Replacement of T with S on position 133 partially restored receptor sensitivity to protons, suggesting the hydroxyl group of residue T133 is essential for proton-mediated modulation. In heteromeric alpha1beta receptors, mutations beta H132A and S156A, which correspond to H109 and T133 of the alpha1 subunit, respectively, also affected proton inhibition. In conclusion, multiple extracellular histidine residues (H107, H109, H215 and H419) and threonine residues of the alpha1 and beta Zn(2+) coordination sites are critical for modulation of the glycine receptor by protons.

Silencing acid-sensing ion channel 1a alters cone-mediated retinal function

The action of extracellular protons on retinal activity and phototransduction occurs through pH-sensitive elements, mainly membrane conductances present on the different cell types of the outer and inner nuclear layers and of the ganglion cell layer. Acid-sensing ion channels (ASICs) are depolarizing conductances that are directly activated by protons. We investigated the participation of ASIC1a, a particular isoform of ASICs, in retinal physiology in vivo using electroretinogram measurements. In situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry localized ASIC1a in the outer and inner nuclear layers (cone photoreceptors, horizontal cells, some amacrine and bipolar cells) and in the ganglion cell layer. Both the in vivo knockdown of ASIC1a by antisense oligonucleotides and the in vivo blocking of its activity by PcTx1, a specific venom peptide, were able to decrease significantly and reversibly the photopic a- and b-waves and oscillatory potentials. Our study indicates that ASIC1a is an important channel in normal retinal activity. Being present in the inner segments of cones and inner nuclear layer cells, and mainly at synaptic cleft levels, it could participate in gain adaptation to ambient light of the cone pathway, facilitating cone hyperpolarization in brightness and modulating synaptic transmission of the light-induced visual signal.

Effect of extracellular pH on recombinant alpha1beta2gamma2 and alpha1beta2 GABAA receptors

Recently, we have reported that extracellular protons allosterically modulated neuronal GABA(A) receptors [Mozrzymas, J.W., Zarnowska, E.D., Pytel, M., Mercik, K., 2003a. Modulation of GABA(A) receptors by hydrogen ions reveals synaptic GABA transient and a crucial role of desensitiztion process. Journal of Neuroscience 23, 7981-7992]. However, GABAARs in neurons are heterogeneous and the effect of hydrogen ions depends on the receptor subtype. In particular, gamma2 subunit sets the receptor sensibility to several modulators including protons. However, the mechanisms whereby protons modulate gamma2-containing and gamma2-free GABAARs have not been fully elucidated. To this end, current responses to ultrafast GABA applications were recorded for alpha1beta2gamma2 and alpha1beta2 receptors at different pH values. For both receptor types, increase in pH induced a decrease in amplitudes of currents elicited by saturating [GABA] but this effect was stronger for alpha1beta2 receptors. In the case of alpha1beta2gamma2 receptors, protons strongly affected the current time course due to a down regulation of binding and desensitization rates. This effect was qualitatively similar to that described in neurons. Protons strongly influenced the amplitude of alpha1beta2 receptor-mediated currents but the effect on their kinetics was weak suggesting a predominant direct non-competitive inhibition with a minor allosteric modulation. In conclusion, we provide evidence that extracellular protons strongly affect GABAA receptors and that, depending on the presence of the gamma2 subunit, the modulatory mechanisms show profound quantitative and qualitative differences.

Neocortical Microenvironment in Patients with Intractable Epilepsy: Potassium and Chloride Concentrations

PURPOSE

The regulation of extracellular ion concentrations plays an important role in neuronal function and epileptogenesis. Despite the many studies into the mechanisms of epileptogenesis in human experimental models, no data are available regarding the fluctuations of extracellular potassium ([K(+)](o)) and chloride ([Cl(-)](o)) concentrations, which could underlie seizure susceptibility in human chronically epileptic tissues in vivo.

METHODS

By using cerebral microdialysis during surgical resection of epileptic foci, the basic [K(+)](o) and [Cl(-)](o) as well as their changes after epicortical electric stimulation were studied in samples of dialysates obtained from 11 patients by ion-selective microelectrodes.

RESULTS

The mean basal values of [K(+)](o) and [Cl(-)](o) in all patients were 3.83 +/- 0.08 mM and 122.9 +/- 2.6 mM, respectively. However, significant differences were observed in the basal levels of both [K(+)](o) and [Cl(-)](o) between different patients. Statistically, no correlation was found between basal [K(+)](o) or [Cl(-)](o) and electrocorticogram (ECoG) spike activity, but in one patient, dramatically lowered baseline [Cl(-)](o) was accompanied by enhanced ECoG spike activity. Application of epicortical electrical stimulation increased [K(+)](o) but not [Cl(-)](o) in all cases. According to the velocity as well as spatial distribution of [K(+)](o) reduction to the prestimulation levels, three different types of responses were observed: slow decline, fast decline, and slow and fast declines at adjacent sites.

CONCLUSIONS

These data may represent abnormalities in ion homeostasis of the epileptic brain.

The voltage dependence of GABAA receptor gating depends on extracellular pH

Recent studies have indicated that changes in extracellular pH and in membrane voltage affect the gamma-amino-n-butyric acid type A receptor gating mainly by altering desensitization and binding. To test whether the effects of membrane potential and pH are additive, their combined actions were investigated. By analyzing the current responses to rapid gamma-amino-n-butyric acid applications, we found that the current to voltage relationship was close to linear at acid pH but the increasing pH induced an inward rectification. Desensitization was enhanced at depolarizing potentials, but this strongly depended on pH, being weak at acidic and strong at basic pH values. A similar trend was observed for the onset rate of responses to saturating gamma-amino-n-butyric acid concentration. These data provide evidence that the voltage sensitivity of GABAA receptors depends on extracellular pH.

Evidence for a functional role of GABAC receptors in the rat mature hippocampus

Both gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)(C) receptor subunit mRNA and protein are expressed in the stratum pyramidale in the CA1 area of the adult rat hippocampus, but so far no conclusive evidence about functional hippocampal GABA(C) receptors has been presented. Here, the contribution of GABA(C) receptors to stimulus-evoked postsynaptic potentials was studied in the hippocampal CA1 area with extracellular and intracellular recordings at the age range of 21-47 postnatal days. Activation of GABA(C) receptors with the specific agonist cis-4-aminocrotonic acid (CACA) suppressed postsynaptic excitability and increased the membrane conductance. The GABA(C) receptor antagonist 1,2,5,6-tetrahydropyridine-4-ylmethylphosphinic acid (TPMPA), but not the GABA(A) receptor antagonist bicuculline, inhibited the effects of CACA. GABA-mediated long-lasting depolarizing responses evoked by high-frequency stimulation of local inhibitory interneurons in the CA1 area in the presence of ionotropic glutamate receptor and GABA(B) receptor blockers were prolonged by TPMPA, indicating that GABA(C) receptors are activated under these conditions. For weaker stimulation, the effect of TPMPA was enhanced after GABA uptake was inhibited. Our data demonstrate that GABA(C) receptors can be activated by endogenous synaptic transmitter release following strong stimulation or under conditions of reduced GABA uptake. The lack of GABA(C) receptor activation by less intensive stimulation under control conditions suggests that these receptors are extrasynaptic and activated via spillover of synaptically released GABA.

Protons inhibit Cl- conductance by direct or allosteric interaction with the GABA-binding site in the rat recombinant alpha1beta2gamma2L and alpha1beta2 GABAA receptor

Functional roles of external pH on the Cl- conductance were examined on Xenopus oocytes expressing rat recombinant alpha1beta2gamma2L and alpha1beta2 GABAA receptors. Acidic pH inhibited GABA-response in a reversible and concentration-dependent manner, significantly increasing the EC50 without appreciably changing the slope or maximal currents induced by GABA in the alpha1beta2gamma2L and alpha1beta2 receptors. In contrast, protonation did not influence the pentobarbital-gated currents in the alpha1beta2gamma2L receptors, suggesting that protons do not modulate channel activity by directly affecting the channel gating process. Protons competitively inhibited the bicuculline-induced antagonism on GABA in the alpha1beta2gamma2L receptors. The data support the hypothesis that protons inhibit GABAA receptor function by direct or allosteric interaction with the GABA-binding site.

Proton modulation of recombinant GABA(A) receptors: influence of GABA concentration and the beta subunit TM2-TM3 domain

Regulation of GABA(A) receptors by extracellular pH exhibits a dependence on the receptor subunit composition. To date, the molecular mechanism responsible for the modulation of GABA(A) receptors at alkaline pH has remained elusive. We report here that the GABA-activated current can be potentiated at pH 8.4 for both alphabeta and alphabeta gamma subunit-containing receptors, but only at GABA concentrations below the EC40. Site-specific mutagenesis revealed that a single lysine residue, K279 in the beta subunit TM2-TM3 linker, was critically important for alkaline pH to modulate the function of both alpha1beta2 and alpha1beta2 gamma2 receptors. The ability of low concentrations of GABA to reveal different pH titration profiles for GABA(A) receptors was also examined at acidic pH. At pH 6.4, GABA activation of alphabeta gamma receptors was enhanced at low GABA concentrations. This effect was ablated by the mutation H267A in the beta subunit. Decreasing the pH further to 5.4 inhibited GABA responses via alphabeta gamma receptors, whereas those responses recorded from alphabeta receptors were potentiated. Inserting homologous beta subunit residues into the gamma2 subunit to recreate, in alphabeta gamma receptors, the proton modulatory profile of alphabeta receptors, established that in the presence of beta2(H267), the mutation gamma2(T294K) was necessary to potentiate the GABA response at pH 5.4. This residue, T294, is homologous to K279 in the beta subunit and suggests that a lysine at this position is an important residue for mediating the allosteric effects of both acidic and alkaline pH changes, rather than forming a direct site for protonation within the GABA(A) receptor.

A Novel Chloride Channel in Drosophila melanogaster Is Inhibited by Protons

A systematic analysis of the Drosophila genome data reveals the existence of pHCl, a novel member of ligand-gated ion channel subunits. pHCl shows nearly identical similarity to glutamate-, glycine-, and histamine-gated ion channels, does however not belong to any of these ion channel types. We identified three different sites, where splicing generates multiple transcripts of the pHCl mRNA. The pHCl is expressed in Drosophila embryo, larvae, pupae, and the adult fly. In embryos, in situ hybridization detected pHCl in the neural cord and the hindgut. Functional expression of the three different splice variants of pHCl in oocytes of Xenopus laevis and Sf9 cells induces a chloride current with a linear current-voltage relationship that is inhibited by extracellular protons and activated by avermectins in a pH-dependent manner. Further, currents through pHCl channels were induced by a raise in temperature. Our data give genetic and electrophysiological evidence that pHCl is a member of a new branch of ligand-gated ion channels in invertebrates with, however, a hitherto unique combination of pharmacological and biophysical properties.

Cell type-specific synaptic dynamics of synchronized bursting in the juvenile CA3 rat hippocampus

Spontaneous synchronous bursting of the CA3 hippocampus in vitro is a widely studied model of physiological and pathological network synchronization. The role of inhibitory conductances during network bursting is not understood in detail, despite the fact that several antiepileptic drugs target GABA(A) receptors. Here, we show that the first manifestation of a burst event is a cell type-specific flurry of GABA(A) receptor-mediated inhibitory input to pyramidal cells, but not to stratum oriens horizontal interneurons. Moreover, GABA(A) receptor-mediated synaptic input is proportionally smaller in these interneurons compared with pyramidal cells. Computational models and dynamic-clamp studies using experimentally derived conductance waveforms indicate that both these factors modulate spike timing during synchronized activity. In particular, the different kinetics and the larger strength of GABAergic input to pyramidal cells defer action potential initiation and contribute to the observed delay of firing, so that the interneuronal activity leads the burst cycle. In contrast, excitatory inputs to both neuronal populations during a burst are kinetically similar, as required to maintain synchronicity. We also show that the natural pattern of activation of inhibitory and excitatory conductances during a synchronized burst cycle is different within the same neuronal population. In particular, GABA(A) receptor-mediated currents activate earlier and outlast the excitatory components driving the bursts. Thus, cell type-specific balance and timing of GABA(A) receptor-mediated input are critical to set the appropriate spike timing in pyramidal cells and interneurons and coordinate additional neurotransmitter release modulating burst strength and network frequency.

Molecular Basis for Modulation of Recombinant α1β2γ2 GABAA Receptors by Protons

We have previously shown that extracellular protons inhibit recombinant and native GABAA receptors. In this report, we studied the site(s) and mechanism by which protons modulate the GABAA receptor. Whole cell GABA-activated currents were recorded from human embryonic kidney (HEK) 293 cells expressing recombinant α1β2γ2 GABAA receptors. Protons competitively inhibited the response to GABA and bicuculline. In contrast, change in pH did not influence direct gating of the channel by pentobarbital, and it did not influence spontaneous channel openings in α1(L264T)β2γ2 receptors, suggesting pH does not modulate channel activity by affecting the channel gating process directly. To test the hypothesis that protons modulate GABAA receptors at the ligand binding site, we systemically mutated N-terminal residues known to be involved in GABA binding and assessed effects of pH on these mutant receptors. Site-specific mutation of β2 Y205 to F or α1 F64 to A, both of which are known to influence GABA binding, significantly reduced pH sensitivity of the GABA response. These mutations did not affect Zn2+ sensitivity, suggesting that H+ and Zn2+ do not share a common site of action. Additional experiments further tested this possibility. Treatment with the histidine-modifying reagent diethylpyrocarbonate (DEPC) reduced Zn2+-mediated inhibition of GABAA receptors but had no effect on proton-induced inhibition of GABA currents. In addition, mutation of residues known to be involved in Zn2+ modulation had no effect on pH modulation of GABAA receptors. Our results support the hypothesis that protons inhibit GABAA receptor function by direct or allosteric interaction with the GABA binding site. In addition, the sites of action of H+ and Zn2+ in GABAA receptors are distinct.

Proton modulation of alpha 1 beta 3 delta GABAA receptor channel gating and desensitization

Alphabetagamma GABA(A) receptor currents are phasic and desensitizing, whereas alphabetadelta GABA(A) receptor currents are tonic and have no fast desensitization. alphabetagamma receptors are subsynaptic and mediate phasic inhibition, whereas alphabetadelta receptors are extra- or perisynaptic and mediate tonic inhibition. Given the different roles of these GABA(A) receptor isoforms and the fact that GABA(A) receptors are allosterically regulated by extracellular pH in a subunit-dependent manner, we compared the effects of changing pH on rat delta or gamma2L subunit-containing GABA(A) receptor currents. Human embryonic kidney cells (HEK293T) were transfected with cDNAs encoding rat alpha1, beta3, gamma2L, or delta GABA(A) receptor subunits in several binary and ternary combinations, and whole cell and single channel patch-clamp recordings were obtained. Lowering pH substantially enhanced alpha1beta3 receptor currents. This effect was significantly more pronounced for ternary alpha1beta3delta receptors, whereas ternary alpha1beta3gamma2L receptors were relatively insensitive to lowered pH. Lowering pH did not affect the extent of desensitization of alpha1beta3 and alpha1beta3gamma2L receptor currents, but significantly increased the extent of desensitization of alpha1beta3delta receptor currents. Lowering pH prolonged deactivation of alpha1beta3 and alpha1beta3delta receptor currents and enhanced the "steady-state" currents of alpha1beta3delta receptors evoked by long-duration (28 s) GABA applications. Lowering pH significantly increased mean open duration of alpha1beta3delta steady-state single channel currents due to introduction of a longer-duration open state, suggesting that low pH enhances alpha1beta3delta receptor steady-state currents by modifying GABA(A) receptor gating properties.

Regulation and modulation of pH in the brain

The regulation of pH is a vital homeostatic function shared by all tissues. Mechanisms that govern H+ in the intracellular and extracellular fluid are especially important in the brain, because electrical activity can elicit rapid pH changes in both compartments. These acid-base transients may in turn influence neural activity by affecting a variety of ion channels. The mechanisms responsible for the regulation of intracellular pH in brain are similar to those of other tissues and are comprised principally of forms of Na+/H+ exchange, Na+-driven Cl-/HCO3- exchange, Na+-HCO3- cotransport, and passive Cl-/HCO3- exchange. Differences in the expression or efficacy of these mechanisms have been noted among the functionally and morphologically diverse neurons and glial cells that have been studied. Molecular identification of transporter isoforms has revealed heterogeneity among brain regions and cell types. Neural activity gives rise to an assortment of extracellular and intracellular pH shifts that originate from a variety of mechanisms. Intracellular pH shifts in neurons and glia have been linked to Ca2+ transport, activation of acid extrusion systems, and the accumulation of metabolic products. Extracellular pH shifts can occur within milliseconds of neural activity, arise from an assortment of mechanisms, and are governed by the activity of extracellular carbonic anhydrase. The functional significance of these compartmental, activity-dependent pH shifts is discussed.

Modulation of GABA(A) receptors by hydrogen ions reveals synaptic GABA transient and a crucial role of the desensitization process

Protons are the most ubiquitous and very potent modulators of the biological systems. Hydrogen ions are known to modulate GABA(A) receptors (GABA(A)Rs), but the mechanism whereby these ions affect IPSCs and the gating of GABA(A)Rs is not clear. In the present study we examined the effect of protons on miniature IPSCs (mIPSCs) and found that hydrogen ions strongly affected both their amplitude and time course. To explore the underlying mechanisms with resolution adequate to the time scale of synaptic transmission, we recorded current responses to ultrafast GABA applications at various pH. These experiments revealed that the major effect of protons on GABA(A)R gating is a strong enhancement of desensitization and binding rates at increasing pH. This analysis also indicated that desensitization rate is the fastest ligand-independent transition in the GABA(A)R gating scheme. Although proton effects on the time course of mIPSCs and current responses to saturating [GABA] were similar, the pH dependencies of amplitudes were almost opposite. Our quantitative analysis, based on model simulations, indicated that this difference resulted from a much shorter receptor exposure to agonist in the case of mIPSCs. Modeling of IPSCs as current responses to brief exponentially decaying GABA applications was sufficient to reproduce correctly the pH dependence of mIPSCs, and optimal fit was obtained for peak [GABA] of 1.5-3 mm and a clearance time constant of 0.075-0.125 msec. Our analysis indicates that, for these parameters of GABA transient, in control conditions (pH 7.2) mIPSCs are not saturated.

Glycine mediated alterations in intracellular pH

Glycinergic transmission shapes the coding properties of the lateral superior olivary nucleus (LSO). We investigated intracellular pH responses in the LSO to glycine using BCECF-AM in brain slices. With extracellular bicarbonate, glycine produced an alkalinization followed by an acidification while, in the nominal absence of bicarbonate, glycine produced acidifications. Separately, in whole-cell recordings from LSO neurons, glycine caused hyperpolarization followed by long-lasting depolarization. While the bicarbonate-dependent intracellular alkalinization could be related to chloride/bicarbonate exchange, bicarbonate-independent acidification may be triggered by depolarization.

Identification of a beta subunit TM2 residue mediating proton modulation of GABA type A receptors

GABA type A (GABA(A)) receptors are functionally regulated by external protons in a manner dependent on the receptor subunit composition. Although H(+) can regulate the open probability of single GABA ion channels, exactly what residues and receptor subunits are responsible for proton-induced modulation remain unknown. This study resolves this issue by using recombinant alpha1betai subunit GABA(A) receptors expressed in human embryonic kidney cells. The potentiating effect of low external pH on GABA responses exhibited p(Ka) in accord with the involvement of histidine and/or cysteine residues. The exposure of GABA(A) receptors to the histidine-modifying reagent DEPC ablated regulation by H(+), implicating the involvement of histidine residues rather than cysteines in proton regulation. Site-specific substitution of all conserved external histidines to alanine on the beta subunits revealed that H267 alone, in the TM2 domain, is important for H(+) regulation. These results are interpreted as a direct protonation of H267 on alpha1betai receptors rather than an involvement in signal transduction. The opposing functional effects induced by Zn(2+) and H(+) at this single histidine residue most likely reflect differences in charge delocalization on the imidazole rings in the mouth of the GABA(A) receptor ion channel. Additional substitutions of H267 in beta subunits with other residues possessing charged side chains (glutamate and lysine) reveal that this area of the ion channel can profoundly influence the functional properties of GABA(A) receptors.