Characterization and mapping of the 12 kDa FK506-binding protein (FKBP12)-binding site on different isoforms of the ryanodine receptor and of the inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor

FK506 regulates Ca2+ release evoked by inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate independently of FK-binding protein in endothelial cells

Background and Purpose

FK506 and rapamycin are modulators of FK‐binding proteins (FKBP) that are used to suppress immune function after organ and hematopoietic stem cell transplantations. The drugs share the unwanted side‐effect of evoking hypertension that is associated with reduced endothelial function and nitric oxide production. The underlying mechanisms are not understood. FKBP may regulate IP₃ receptors (IP₃R) and ryanodine receptors (RyR) to alter Ca²⁺ signalling in endothelial cells.

Experimental Approach

We investigated the effects of FK506 and rapamycin on Ca²⁺ release via IP₃R and RyR in hundreds of endothelial cells, using the indicator Cal‐520, in intact mesenteric arteries from male Sprague‐Dawley rats. IP₃Rs were activated by acetylcholine or localised photo‐uncaging of IP₃, and RyR by caffeine.

Key Results

While FKBPs were present, FKBP modulation with rapamycin did not alter IP₃‐evoked Ca²⁺ release. Conversely, FK506, which modulates FKBP and blocks calcineurin, increased IP₃‐evoked Ca²⁺ release. Inhibition of calcineurin (okadiac acid or cypermethrin) also increased IP₃‐evoked Ca²⁺ release and blocked FK506 effects. When calcineurin was inhibited, FK506 reduced IP₃‐evoked Ca²⁺ release. These findings suggest that IP₃‐evoked Ca²⁺ release is not modulated by FKBP, but by FK506‐mediated calcineurin inhibition. The RyR modulators caffeine and ryanodine failed to alter Ca²⁺ signalling suggesting that RyR is not functional in native endothelium.

Conclusion and Implications

The hypertensive effects of the immunosuppressant drugs FK506 and rapamycin, while mediated by endothelial cells, do not appear to be exerted at the documented cellular targets of Ca²⁺ release and altered FKBP binding to IP₃ and RyR.

Bcl-2 and FKBP12 bind to IP3 and ryanodine receptors at overlapping sites: the complexity of protein-protein interactions for channel regulation

The 12- and 12.6-kDa FK506-binding proteins, FKBP12 (12-kDa FK506-binding protein) and FKBP12.6 (12.6-kDa FK506-binding protein), have been implicated in the binding to and the regulation of ryanodine receptors (RyRs) and inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptors (IP3Rs), both tetrameric intracellular Ca2+-release channels. Whereas the amino acid sequences responsible for FKBP12 binding to RyRs are conserved in IP3Rs, FKBP12 binding to IP3Rs has been questioned and could not be observed in various experimental models. Nevertheless, conservation of these residues in the different IP3R isoforms and during evolution suggested that they could harbour an important regulatory site critical for IP3R-channel function. Recently, it has become clear that in IP3Rs, this site was targeted by B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2) via its Bcl-2 homology (BH)4 domain, thereby dampening IP3R-mediated Ca2+ flux and preventing pro-apoptotic Ca2+ signalling. Furthermore, vice versa, the presence of the corresponding site in RyRs implied that Bcl-2 proteins could associate with and regulate RyR channels. Recently, the existence of endogenous RyR-Bcl-2 complexes has been identified in primary hippocampal neurons. Like for IP3Rs, binding of Bcl-2 to RyRs also involved its BH4 domain and suppressed RyR-mediated Ca2+ release. We therefore propose that the originally identified FKBP12-binding site in IP3Rs is a region critical for controlling IP3R-mediated Ca2+ flux by recruiting Bcl-2 rather than FKBP12. Although we hypothesize that anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 proteins, but not FKBP12, are the main physiological inhibitors of IP3Rs, we cannot exclude that Bcl-2 could help engaging FKBP12 (or other FKBP isoforms) to the IP3R, potentially via calcineurin.

Association of the EF-hand and PH domains of the guanine nucleotide exchange factor SLAT with IP₃ receptor 1 promotes Ca²⁺ signaling in T cells

The guanine nucleotide exchange factor SLAT (SWAP-70-like adaptor of T cells) regulates T cell activation and differentiation by enabling Ca(2+) release from intracellular stores in response to stimulation of the T cell receptor (TCR). We found a TCR-induced association between SLAT and inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3) receptor type 1 (IP3R1). The N-terminal region of SLAT, which contains two EF-hand motifs that we determined bound Ca(2+), and the SLAT pleckstrin homology (PH) domain independently bound to IP3R1 by associating with a conserved motif within the IP3R1 ligand-binding domain. Disruption of the SLAT-IP3R1 interaction with cell-permeable, IP3R1-based fusion peptides inhibited TCR-stimulated Ca(2+) signaling, activation of the transcription factor NFAT (nuclear factor of activated T cells), and production of cytokines, suggesting that this interaction is required for optimal T cell activation. The finding that SLAT is an IP3R1-interacting protein required for T cell activation suggests that this interaction could be a potential target for a selective immunosuppressive drug.

Proteomics reveals potential non-neuronal cholinergic receptor-effectors in endothelial cells

AIM

The non-neuronal acetylcholine system (NNAS) in endothelial cells participates in modulating endothelial function, vascular tone, angiogenesis and inflammation, thus plays a critical role in cardiovascular diseases. In this study, we used a proteomic approach to study potential downstream receptor-effectors of NNAS that were involved in regulating cellular function in endothelial cells.

METHODS

Human umbilical vein endothelial cells were incubated in the presence of acetylcholine, oxotremorine, pilocarpine or nicotine at the concentration of 10 μmol/L for 12 h, and the expressed proteins in the cells were separated and identified with two-dimensional electrophoresis (2-DE) and LC-MS. The protein spots with the largest changes were identified by LC-MS. Biowork software was used for database search of the peptide mass fingerprints.

RESULTS

Over 1200 polypeptides were reproducibly detected in 2-DE with a pH range of 3-10. Acetylcholine, oxotremorine, pilocarpine and nicotine treatment caused 16, 9, 8 and 9 protein spots, respectively, expressed differentially. Four protein spots were identified as destrin, FK506 binding protein 1A (FKBP1A), macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) and profilin-1. Western blotting analyses showed that treatment of the cells with cholinergic agonists significantly decreased the expression of destrin, FKBP1A and MIF, and increased the expression of profilin-1.

CONCLUSION

A set of proteins differentially expressed in endothelial cells in response to cholinergic agonists may have important implications for the downstream biological effects of NNAS.

Unraveling the role of peptidyl-prolyl isomerases in neurodegeneration

Immunophilins are a family of highly conserved proteins with a peptidyl-prolyl isomerase activity that binds immunosuppressive drugs such as FK506, cyclosporin A, and rapamycin. Immunophilins can be divided into two subfamilies, the cyclophilins, and the FK506 binding proteins (FKBPs). Next to the immunophilins, a third group of peptidyl-prolyl isomerases exist, the parvulins, which do not influence the immune system. The beneficial role of immunophilin ligands in neurodegenerative disease models has been known for more than a decade but remains largely unexplained in terms of molecular mechanisms. In this review, we summarize reported effects of parvulins, immunophilins, and their ligands in the context of neurodegeneration. We focus on the role of FKBP12 in Parkinson's disease and propose it as a novel drug target for therapy of Parkinson's disease.

STIM1 as a key regulator for Ca2+ homeostasis in skeletal-muscle development and function

Stromal interaction molecules (STIM) were identified as the endoplasmic-reticulum (ER) Ca2+ sensor controlling store-operated Ca2+ entry (SOCE) and Ca2+-release-activated Ca2+ (CRAC) channels in non-excitable cells. STIM proteins target Orai1-3, tetrameric Ca2+-permeable channels in the plasma membrane. Structure-function analysis revealed the molecular determinants and the key steps in the activation process of Orai by STIM. Recently, STIM1 was found to be expressed at high levels in skeletal muscle controlling muscle function and properties. Novel STIM targets besides Orai channels are emerging.Here, we will focus on the role of STIM1 in skeletal-muscle structure, development and function. The molecular mechanism underpinning skeletal-muscle physiology points toward an essential role for STIM1-controlled SOCE to drive Ca2+/calcineurin/nuclear factor of activated T cells (NFAT)-dependent morphogenetic remodeling programs and to support adequate sarcoplasmic-reticulum (SR) Ca2+-store filling. Also in our hands, STIM1 is transiently up-regulated during the initial phase of in vitro myogenesis of C2C12 cells. The molecular targets of STIM1 in these cells likely involve Orai channels and canonical transient receptor potential (TRPC) channels TRPC1 and TRPC3. The fast kinetics of SOCE activation in skeletal muscle seem to depend on the triad-junction formation, favoring a pre-localization and/or pre-formation of STIM1-protein complexes with the plasma-membrane Ca2+-influx channels. Moreover, Orai1-mediated Ca2+ influx seems to be essential for controlling the resting Ca2+ concentration and for proper SR Ca2+ filling. Hence, Ca2+ influx through STIM1-dependent activation of SOCE from the T-tubule system may recycle extracellular Ca2+ losses during muscle stimulation, thereby maintaining proper filling of the SR Ca2+ stores and muscle function. Importantly, mouse models for dystrophic pathologies, like Duchenne muscular dystrophy, point towards an enhanced Ca2+ influx through Orai1 and/or TRPC channels, leading to Ca2+-dependent apoptosis and muscle degeneration. In addition, human myopathies have been associated with dysfunctional SOCE. Immunodeficient patients harboring loss-of-function Orai1 mutations develop myopathies, while patients suffering from Duchenne muscular dystrophy display alterations in their Ca2+-handling proteins, including STIM proteins. In any case, the molecular determinants responsible for SOCE in human skeletal muscle and for dysregulated SOCE in patients of muscular dystrophy require further examination.

Identification and comparative analysis of the peptidyl-prolyl cis/trans isomerase repertoires of H. sapiens, D. melanogaster, C. elegans, S. cerevisiae and Sz. pombe

The peptidyl-prolyl cis/trans isomerase (PPIase) class of proteins comprises three member families that are found throughout nature and are present in all the major compartments of the cell. Their numbers appear to be linked to the number of genes in their respective genomes, although we have found the human repertoire to be smaller than expected due to a reduced cyclophilin repertoire. We show here that whilst the members of the cyclophilin family (which are predominantly found in the nucleus and cytoplasm) and the parvulin family (which are predominantly nuclear) are largely conserved between different repertoires, the FKBPs (which are predominantly found in the cytoplasm and endoplasmic reticulum) are not. It therefore appears that the cyclophilins and parvulins have evolved to perform conserved functions, while the FKBPs have evolved to fill ever-changing niches within the constantly evolving organisms. Many orthologous subgroups within the different PPIase families appear to have evolved from a distinct common ancestor, whereas others, such as the mitochondrial cyclophilins, appear to have evolved independently of one another. We have also identified a novel parvulin within Drosophila melanogaster that is unique to the fruit fly, indicating a recent evolutionary emergence. Interestingly, the fission yeast repertoire, which contains no unique cyclophilins and parvulins, shares no PPIases solely with the budding yeast but it does share a majority with the higher eukaryotes in this study, unlike the budding yeast. It therefore appears that, in comparison with Schizosaccharomyces pombe, Saccharomyces cerevisiae is a poor representation of the higher eukaryotes for the study of PPIases.

Identification of functional FKB protein in Echinococcus granulosus: its involvement in the protoscolicidal action of rapamycin derivates and in calcium homeostasis

FK506 (tacrolimus) and polyketide macrolides such as rapamycin and its derivates bind to FK506-binding proteins (FKBPs). These proteins display a peptidyl-prolyl rotamase function that is believed to catalyze protein folding and they are well-validated anti-proliferative drug targets in certain pathogenic microorganisms, and their functions have been characterized in parasitic protozoa. However, much less is known in helminths and trials with rapalogs on cestoda have not yet been reported. Due to a growing need for new treatment options for human cystic echinococcosis, the in vitro efficacy of rapalogs in Echinococcus granulosus was investigated. We determined the effect of ramapycin, FK506 and everolimus against this cestode, demonstrating their protoscolicidal ability. Also, we observed synergic scolicidal actions during combined therapy with rapalogs plus cyclosporine A, proposing dual administration of drugs to improve pharmacological effects in vivo. We have identified an E. granulosus (Eg)-fkb1 gene that encodes Eg-FKBP, an archetypal protein of the FKBP family, which includes all residues implicated in the binding of pharmacological ligands, in the enzymatic activity and in interactions with possible target proteins. Levels of Eg-fkb1 mRNA are over-expressed by acid but not rapalog treatment. We also described the presence of receptor-operated calcium channels in the larval stage, suggesting that exogenous ligands may dissociate the interaction of Eg-FKBP from these intracellular channels, enhancing the activity of the Ca(2+) release and interfering with their normal regulatory functions. As rapamycin sensitivity is the major criterion used to detect targets of rapamycin kinase, we identified and analyzed in silico critical residues of putative homologs in the Echinococcus genome. These preliminary results will allow us to continue subsequent studies that could reveal the precise intracellular functions of Eg-FKBP, providing greater knowledge for further identification of downstream target proteins, a promising target for chemotherapy of cystic echinococcosis.

Regulation by FK506 and rapamycin of Ca2+ release from the sarcoplasmic reticulum in vascular smooth muscle: the role of FK506 binding proteins and mTOR

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

The sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR), regulates the cytoplasmic Ca(2+) concentration ([Ca(2+)](cyto)) in vascular smooth muscle. Release from the SR is controlled by two intracellular receptor/channel complexes, the ryanodine receptor (RyR) and the inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor (IP(3)R). These receptors may be regulated by the accessory FK506-binding protein (FKBP) either directly, by binding to the channel, or indirectly via FKBP modulation of two targets, the phosphatase, calcineurin or the kinase, mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR).

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

Single portal vein myocytes were voltage-clamped in whole cell configuration and [Ca(2+)](cyto) measured using fluo-3. IP(3)Rs were activated by photolysis of caged IP(3) and RyRs activated by hydrostatic application of caffeine.

KEY RESULTS

FK506 which displaces FKBP from each receptor (to inhibit calcineurin) increased the [Ca(2+)](cyto) rise evoked by activation of either RyR or IP(3)R. Rapamycin which displaces FKBP (to inhibit mTOR) also increased the amplitude of the caffeine-evoked, but reduced the IP(3)-evoked [Ca(2+)](cyto) rise. None of the phosphatase inhibitors, cypermethrin, okadaic acid or calcineurin inhibitory peptide, altered either caffeine- or IP(3)-evoked [Ca(2+)](cyto) release; calcineurin did not contribute to FK506-mediated potentiation of RyR- or IP(3)R-mediated Ca(2+) release. The mTOR inhibitor LY294002, like rapamycin, decreased IP(3)-evoked Ca(2+) release.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

Ca(2+) release in portal vein myocytes, via RyR, was modulated directly by FKBP binding to the channel; neither calcineurin nor mTOR contributed to this regulation. However, IP(3)R-mediated Ca(2+) release, while also modulated directly by FKBP may be additionally regulated by mTOR. Rapamycin inhibition of IP(3)-mediated Ca(2+) release may be explained by mTOR inhibition.

Regulation of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor type 1 function during oocyte maturation by MPM-2 phosphorylation

Egg activation and further embryo development require a sperm-induced intracellular Ca(2+) signal at the time of fertilization. Prior to fertilization, the egg's Ca(2+) machinery is therefore optimized. To this end, during oocyte maturation, the sensitivity, i.e. the Ca(2+) releasing ability, of the inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor type 1 (IP(3)R1), which is responsible for most of this Ca(2+) release, markedly increases. In this study, the recently discovered specific Polo-like kinase (Plk) inhibitor BI2536 was used to investigate the role of Plk1 in this process. BI2536 inactivates Plk1 in oocytes at the early stages of maturation and significantly decreases IP(3)R1 phosphorylation at an MPM-2 epitope at this stage. Moreover, this decrease in Plk1-dependent MPM-2 phosphorylation significantly lowers IP(3)R1 sensitivity. Finally, using in vitro phosphorylation techniques we identified T(2656) as a major Plk1 site on IP(3)R1. We therefore propose that the initial increase in IP(3)R1 sensitivity during oocyte maturation is underpinned by IP(3)R1 phosphorylation at an MPM-2 epitope(s).

Ryanodine receptor-mediated arrhythmias and sudden cardiac death

The cardiac ryanodine receptor-Ca²⁺ release channel (RyR2) is an essential sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) transmembrane protein that plays a central role in excitation–contraction coupling (ECC) in cardiomyocytes. Aberrant spontaneous, diastolic Ca²⁺ leak from the SR due to dysfunctional RyR2 contributes to the formation of delayed after-depolarisations, which are thought to underlie the fatal arrhythmia that occurs in both heart failure (HF) and in catecholaminergic polymorphic ventricular tachycardia (CPVT). CPVT is an inherited disorder associated with mutations in either the RyR2 or a SR luminal protein, calsequestrin. RyR2 shows normal function at rest in CPVT but the RyR2 dysfunction is unmasked by physical exercise or emotional stress, suggesting abnormal RyR2 activation as an underlying mechanism. Several potential mechanisms have been advanced to explain the dysfunctional RyR2 observed in HF and CPVT, including enhanced RyR2 phosphorylation status, altered RyR2 regulation at luminal/cytoplasmic sites and perturbed RyR2 intra/inter-molecular interactions. This review considers RyR2 dysfunction in the context of the structural and functional modulation of the channel, and potential therapeutic strategies to stabilise RyR2 function in cardiac pathology.

Differential responses of the backbone and side-chain conformational dynamics in FKBP12 upon binding the transition-state analog FK506: implications for transition-state stabilization and target protein recognition

FKBP12 serves a dual role as a peptidyl-prolyl cis-trans isomerase and as a modulator of several cell signaling pathways. The macrolide FK506 is a transition-state analog of the catalyzed reaction and displaces FKBP12 from its natural target proteins. We compared the conformational exchange dynamics of the backbone and methyl-bearing side chains of FKBP12 in the free and FK506-bound states using NMR relaxation-dispersion experiments. Our results show that the free enzyme exchanges between the ground state and an excited state that resembles the ligand-bound state or Michaelis complex. In FK506-bound FKBP12, the backbone is confined to a single conformation, while conformational exchange prevails for many methyl groups. The residual side-chain dynamics in the transition-state analog-bound state suggests that the transition-state ensemble involves multiple conformations, a finding that challenges the long-standing concept of conformational restriction in the transition-state complex. Furthermore, exchange between alternative conformations is observed in the bound state for an extended network of methyl groups that includes locations remote from the active site. Several of these locations are known to be important for interactions with cellular target proteins, including calcineurin and the ryanodine receptor, suggesting that the conformational heterogeneity might play a role in the promiscuous binding of FKBP12 to different targets.

Regulation of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate-induced Ca2+ release by reversible phosphorylation and dephosphorylation

The inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3) receptor (IP3R) is a universal intracellular Ca2+-release channel. It is activated after cell stimulation and plays a crucial role in the initiation and propagation of the complex spatio-temporal Ca2+ signals that control cellular processes as different as fertilization, cell division, cell migration, differentiation, metabolism, muscle contraction, secretion, neuronal processing, and ultimately cell death. To achieve these various functions, often in a single cell, exquisite control of the Ca2+ release is needed. This review aims to highlight how protein kinases and protein phosphatases can interact with the IP3R or with associated proteins and so provide a large potential for fine tuning the Ca2+-release activity and for creating efficient Ca2+ signals in subcellular microdomains.

Chaperones as Parts of Organelle Networks

The efficiency, divergence, and specificity of virtually all intracellular metabolic and signalling pathways largely depend on their compartmentalized organization. A corollary of the requirement of compartmentalization is the dynamic structural partition of the intracellular space by endomembrane systems. A branch of these membranes communicate with the extracellular space through the endo- and exocytotic processes. Others, like the mitochondrial and endoplasmic reticulum networks accomplish a further role, being fundamental for the maintenance of cellular energy balance and for determination of cell fate under stress conditions. Recent structural and functional studies revealed that the interaction of these networks and the connectivity state of mitochondria controls metabolic flow, protein transport, intracellular Ca2+ signalling, and cell death. Moreover, reflecting the fact that the above processes are accomplished in a microdomain between collaborating organelle membranes, the existence of macromolecular complexes at their contact sites have also been revealed. Being not only assistants of nascent protein folding, chaperones are proposed to participate in assembling and maintaining the function of the above complexes. In this chapter we discuss recently found examples of such an assembly of protein interactions driven by chaperone proteins, and their role in regulating physiological and pathological processes.

Phosphorylation of IP3R1 and the regulation of [Ca2+]i responses at fertilization: a role for the MAP kinase pathway

A sperm-induced intracellular Ca2+ signal ([Ca2+]i) underlies the initiation of embryo development in most species studied to date. The inositol 1,4,5 trisphosphate receptor type 1 (IP3R1) in mammals, or its homologue in other species, is thought to mediate the majority of this Ca2+ release. IP3R1-mediated Ca2+ release is regulated during oocyte maturation such that it reaches maximal effectiveness at the time of fertilization, which, in mammalian eggs, occurs at the metaphase stage of the second meiosis (MII). Consistent with this, the [Ca2+]i oscillations associated with fertilization in these species occur most prominently during the MII stage. In this study, we have examined the molecular underpinnings of IP3R1 function in eggs. Using mouse and Xenopus eggs, we show that IP3R1 is phosphorylated during both maturation and the first cell cycle at a MPM2-detectable epitope(s), which is known to be a target of kinases controlling the cell cycle. In vitro phosphorylation studies reveal that MAPK/ERK2, one of the M-phase kinases, phosphorylates IP3R1 at at least one highly conserved site, and that its mutation abrogates IP3R1 phosphorylation in this domain. Our studies also found that activation of the MAPK/ERK pathway is required for the IP3R1 MPM2 reactivity observed in mouse eggs, and that eggs deprived of the MAPK/ERK pathway during maturation fail to mount normal [Ca2+]i oscillations in response to agonists and show compromised IP3R1 function. These findings identify IP3R1 phosphorylation by M-phase kinases as a regulatory mechanism of IP3R1 function in eggs that serves to optimize [Ca2+]i release at fertilization.

Agonists and antagonists of the cardiac ryanodine receptor: Potential therapeutic agents?

This review addresses the potential use of the intracellular ryanodine receptor (RyR) Ca(2+) release channel as a therapeutic target in heart disease. Heart disease encompasses a wide range of conditions with the major contributors to mortality and morbidity being ischaemic heart disease and heart failure (HF). In addition there are many rare, but devastating conditions, some of which are either genetically linked to the RyR and its regulatory proteins or involve drug-induced modification of the proteins. The defects in Ca(2+) signalling vary with the nature of the heart disease and the stage in its progress and therefore specific corrections require different modifications of Ca(2+) signalling. Compounds that activate the RyR are potential inotropic agents to increase the Ca(2+) transient and strength of contraction. Compounds that reduce RyR activity are potentially useful in conditions where excess RyR activity initiates arrhythmias, or depletes the Ca(2+) store, as in end stage HF. It has recently been discovered that the cardio-protective action of the drug JTV519 can be attributed partly to its ability to stabilise the interaction between the RyR and the 12.6 kDa binding protein for the commonly used immunosuppressive drug FK506 (FKBP12.6, known as tacrolimus). This has established the credibility of the RyR as a therapeutic target. We explore the possibility that mutations causing the rare RyR-linked arrhythmias will open the door to identification of novel RyR-based therapeutic agents. The use of regulatory binding sites within the RyR complex or on its associated proteins as templates for drug design is discussed.

Chaperone-mediated coupling of endoplasmic reticulum and mitochondrial Ca2+ channels

The voltage-dependent anion channel (VDAC) of the outer mitochondrial membrane mediates metabolic flow, Ca(2+), and cell death signaling between the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and mitochondrial networks. We demonstrate that VDAC1 is physically linked to the endoplasmic reticulum Ca(2+)-release channel inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor (IP(3)R) through the molecular chaperone glucose-regulated protein 75 (grp75). Functional interaction between the channels was shown by the recombinant expression of the ligand-binding domain of the IP(3)R on the ER or mitochondrial surface, which directly enhanced Ca(2+) accumulation in mitochondria. Knockdown of grp75 abolished the stimulatory effect, highlighting chaperone-mediated conformational coupling between the IP(3)R and the mitochondrial Ca(2+) uptake machinery. Because organelle Ca(2+) homeostasis influences fundamentally cellular functions and death signaling, the central location of grp75 may represent an important control point of cell fate and pathogenesis.

The immunophilin ligand GPI1046 protects neurons from the lethal effects of the HIV-1 proteins gp120 and Tat by modulating endoplasmic reticulum calcium load

The dysfunction and death of neuronal cells is thought to underlie the cognitive manifestations of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-associated neurological disorders. Although HIV-infected patients are living longer owing to the effectiveness of anti-retroviral therapies, the number of patients developing neurological disorders is on the rise. Thus, there is an escalating need for effective therapies to preserve cognitive function in HIV-infected patients. Using HIV-protein-induced neurotoxicity as a model system, we tested the effectiveness of a non-immunosuppressive immunophilin ligand to attenuate gp120 and Tat-induced modification of neuronal function. The immunophilin ligand GPI1046 attenuated endoplasmic reticulum (ER) calcium release induced by gp120 and Tat and protected neurons from the lethal effect of these neurotoxic HIV proteins. Both inositol 1,4,5 trisphosphate (IP(3)) and ryanodine-sensitive ER calcium release was attenuated by pre-incubation with GPI1046. Using the sarco/endoplasmic reticulum calcium pump inhibitor thapsigargin to release ER calcium, we determined that GPI1046 reduced the total ER calcium load. These findings suggest that non-immunosuppressive immunophilin ligands may be useful neuroprotective drugs in HIV dementia.

Structural Characterization of the RyR1–FKBP12 Interaction

The 12 kDa FK506-binding protein (FKBP12) constitutively binds to the calcium release channel RyR1. Removal of FKBP12 using FK506 or rapamycin causes an increased open probability and an increase in the frequency of sub-conductance states in RyR1. Using cryo-electron microscopy and single-particle image processing, we have determined the 3D difference map of FKBP12 associated with RyR1 at 16 A resolution that can be fitted with the atomic model of FKBP12 in a unique orientation. This has allowed us to better define the surfaces of close apposition between FKBP12 and RyR1. Our results shed light on the role of several FKBP12 residues that had been found critical for the specificity of the RyR1-FKBP12 interaction. As predicted from previous immunoprecipitation studies, our results suggest that Gln3 participates directly in this interaction. The orientation of RyR1-bound FKBP12, with part of its FK506 binding site facing towards RyR1, allows us to propose how FK506 is involved in the dissociation of FKBP12 from RyR1.

The aggregation of alpha‐synuclein is stimulated by FK506 binding proteins as shown by fluorescence correlation spectroscopy

Aggregation of alpha-synuclein (alpha-SYN) plays a key role in Parkinson's disease (PD). We have used fluorescence correlation spectroscopy (FCS) to study alpha-SYN aggregation in vitro and discovered that this process is clearly accelerated by addition of FK506 binding proteins (FKBPs). This effect was observed both with E. coli SlyD FKBP and with human FKBP12 and was counteracted by FK506, a specific inhibitor of FKBP. The alpha-SYN aggregates formed in the presence of FKBP12 showed fibrillar morphology. The rotamase activity of FKBP apparently accelerates the folding and subsequent aggregation of alpha-SYN. Since FK506 and other non-immunosuppressive FKBP inhibitors are known to display neuroregenerative and neuroprotective properties in disease models, the observed inhibition of rotamase activity and alpha-SYN aggregation, may explain their mode of action. Our results open perspectives for the treatment of PD with immunophilin ligands that inhibit a specific member of the FKBP family.

Inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptors as signal integrators

The inositol 1,4,5 trisphosphate (IP3) receptor (IP3R) is a Ca2+ release channel that responds to the second messenger IP3. Exquisite modulation of intracellular Ca2+ release via IP3Rs is achieved by the ability of IP3R to integrate signals from numerous small molecules and proteins including nucleotides, kinases, and phosphatases, as well as nonenzyme proteins. Because the ion conduction pore composes only approximately 5% of the IP3R, the great bulk of this large protein contains recognition sites for these substances. Through these regulatory mechanisms, IP3R modulates diverse cellular functions, which include, but are not limited to, contraction/excitation, secretion, gene expression, and cellular growth. We review the unique properties of the IP3R that facilitate cell-type and stimulus-dependent control of function, with special emphasis on protein-binding partners.

Ryanodine receptor regulation by intramolecular interaction between cytoplasmic and transmembrane domains

Ryanodine receptors (RyR) function as Ca(2+) channels that regulate Ca(2+) release from intracellular stores to control a diverse array of cellular processes. The massive cytoplasmic domain of RyR is believed to be responsible for regulating channel function. We investigated interaction between the transmembrane Ca(2+)-releasing pore and a panel of cytoplasmic domains of the human cardiac RyR in living cells. Expression of eGFP-tagged RyR constructs encoding distinct transmembrane topological models profoundly altered intracellular Ca(2+) handling and was refractory to modulation by ryanodine, FKBP12.6 and caffeine. The impact of coexpressing dsRed-tagged cytoplasmic domains of RyR2 on intracellular Ca(2+) phenotype was assessed using confocal microscopy coupled with parallel determination of in situ protein: protein interaction using fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET). Dynamic interactions between RyR cytoplasmic and transmembrane domains were mediated by amino acids 3722-4610 (Interacting or "I"-domain) which critically modulated intracellular Ca(2+) handling and restored RyR sensitivity to caffeine activation. These results provide compelling evidence that specific interaction between cytoplasmic and transmembrane domains is an important mechanism in the intrinsic modulation of RyR Ca(2+) release channels.

What we don't know about the structure of ryanodine receptor calcium release channels

1. The ryanodine receptor (RyR) is the Ca2+ release channel in the sarcoplamic reticulum of skeletal and cardiac muscle and is essential for respiration and heart beat. The RyR channel releases Ca2+ from intracellular stores in a variety of other cell types, where it normally coexists with the inositiol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor (IP3R). The RyR and IP3R, forming a superfamily of homotetrameric ligand-gated intracellular Ca2+ channels, serve discrete functions: they can be located in independent Ca2+ stores with different activation mechanisms and can be coupled to different signalling pathways. 2. Although functional characteristics of the RyR have been investigated intensely, there remain major gaps in our knowledge about the structure of the protein, its ion-conducting pore, its ligand-binding sites and sites supporting the many protein/protein interactions that underlie the in vivo function of the channel. 3. Of particular importance are the transmembrane segments that form the membrane-spanning domain of the protein and the pore, define the conductance and selectivity of the channel and dictate the cytoplasmic and luminal domains and the overall protein structure. Hydropathy profiles predict between four and 12 transmembrane segments. One popular model shows four transmembrane segments in the C-terminal one-tenth of the protein. However, there is substantial evidence for a larger number of membrane-spanning segments located in both the C-terminal and central parts of the protein. 4. A model of the RyR pore based on the Streptomyces lividans KcsA channel structure is presented. Protein/protein interactions between the RyR and other regulatory proteins, as well as within the RyR subunit, are discussed.

Carbonic anhydrase-related protein is a novel binding protein for inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor type 1

The inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP(3)) receptor (IP(3)R) is an intracellular IP(3)-gated Ca(2+) channel that is located on intracellular Ca(2+) stores and modulates Ca(2+) signalling. Using the yeast two-hybrid system, we screened a mouse brain cDNA library with bait constructs for mouse IP(3)R type 1 (IP(3)R1) to identify IP(3)R1-associated proteins. In this way, we found that carbonic anhydrase-related protein (CARP) is a novel IP(3)R1-binding protein. Western blot analysis revealed that CARP is expressed exclusively in Purkinje cells of the cerebellum, in which IP(3)R1 is abundantly expressed. Immunohistochemical analysis showed that the subcellular localization of CARP in Purkinje cells is coincident with that of IP(3)R1. Biochemical analysis also showed that CARP is co-precipitated with IP(3)R1. Using deletion mutagenesis, we established that amino acids 45-291 of CARP are essential for its association with IP(3)R1, and that the CARP-binding site is located within the modulatory domain of IP(3)R1 amino acids 1387-1647. CARP inhibits IP(3) binding to IP(3)R1 by reducing the affinity of the receptor for IP(3). As reported previously, sensitivity to IP(3) for IP(3)-induced Ca(2+) release in Purkinje cells is low compared with that in other tissues. This could be due to co-expression of CARP with IP(3)R in Purkinje cells and its inhibitory effects on IP(3) binding.

In situ modulation of the human cardiac ryanodine receptor (hRyR2) by FKBP12.6

The ryanodine receptor complex (RyR), a large oligomeric assembly that functions as a Ca(2+)-release channel in the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR)/endoplasmic reticulum (ER), comprises four RyR subunits and four FK506-binding proteins (FKBP). The precise mode of interaction and modulation of the cardiac RyR (RyR2) channel by FKBP12/FKBP12.6 remains to be fully defined. We have generated a series of Chinese-hamster ovary (CHO) cell lines stably expressing discrete levels of recombinant human RyR2 (hRyR2) (CHO(hRyR2)). Confocal microscopy of CHO(hRyR2) cells co-expressing either FKBP12 or FKBP12.6 demonstrated that FKBP12.6 was sequestered from the cytoplasm to ER membranes as the cellular levels of hRyR2 increased. There was negligible hRyR2-induced subcellular redistribution of FKBP12. The magnitude of Ca(2+) release in CHO(hRyR2) cells in response to stimulation by 4-chloro- m -cresol was in direct proportion to the expression levels of hRyR2. However, in CHO(hRyR2) cells co-expressing FKBP12.6, Ca(2+) release triggered by the addition of 4-chloro- m -cresol was markedly decreased. In contrast, co-expression of FKBP12 did not affect agonist-induced Ca(2+) release in CHO(hRyR2) cells. Resting cytoplasmic [Ca(2+)] in CHO(hRyR2) remained unaltered after co-expression of FKBP12 or FKBP12.6, but estimation of the ER Ca(2+) load status showed that co-expression of FKBP12.6, but not FKBP12, promoted superfilling of the ER Ca(2+) store which could not be released by RyR2 after agonist activation. The effects of FKBP12.6 on hRyR2-mediated intracellular Ca(2+) handling could be antagonized using rapamycin (5 microM). These results suggest that FKBP12.6 associates with hRyR2 in situ to modulate precisely the functionality of hRyR2 Ca(2+)-release channel.

Modulation of type 1 inositol (1,4,5)-trisphosphate receptor function by protein kinase a and protein phosphatase 1alpha

Type 1 inositol (1,4,5)-trisphosphate receptors (InsP3R1s) play a major role in neuronal calcium (Ca2+) signaling. The InsP3R1s are phosphorylated by protein kinase A (PKA), but the functional consequences of InsP3R1 phosphorylation and the mechanisms that control the phosphorylated state of neuronal InsP3R1s are poorly understood. In a yeast two-hybrid screen of rat brain cDNA library with the InsP3R1-specific bait, we isolated the protein phosphatase 1alpha (PP1alpha). In biochemical experiments, we confirmed the specificity of the InsP3R1-PP1alpha association and immunoprecipitated the InsP3R1-PP1 complex from rat brain synaptosomes and from the neostriatal lysate. We also established that the association with PP1 facilitates dephosphorylation of PKA-phosphorylated InsP3R1 by the endogenous neostriatal PP1 and by the recombinant PP1alpaha. We demonstrated that exposure of neostriatal slices to 8-bromo-cAMP, dopamine, calyculin A, or cyclosporine A, but not to 10 nM okadaic acid, promotes the phosphorylation of neostriatal InsP3R1 by PKA in vivo. We discovered that PKA activates and PP1alpha inhibits the activity of recombinant InsP3R1 reconstituted into planar lipid bilayers. We found that phosphorylation of InsP3R1 by PKA induces at least a fourfold increase in the sensitivity of InsP3R1 to activation by InsP3 without shifting the peak of InsP3R1 bell-shaped Ca2+ dependence. Based on these data, we suggest that InsP3R1 may participate in cross talk between cAMP and Ca2+ signaling in the neostriatum and possibly in other regions of the brain.

Modulation of type 1 inositol (1,4,5)-trisphosphate receptor function by protein kinase a and protein phosphatase 1alpha

Type 1 inositol (1,4,5)-trisphosphate receptors (InsP3R1s) play a major role in neuronal calcium (Ca2+) signaling. The InsP3R1s are phosphorylated by protein kinase A (PKA), but the functional consequences of InsP3R1 phosphorylation and the mechanisms that control the phosphorylated state of neuronal InsP3R1s are poorly understood. In a yeast two-hybrid screen of rat brain cDNA library with the InsP3R1-specific bait, we isolated the protein phosphatase 1alpha (PP1alpha). In biochemical experiments, we confirmed the specificity of the InsP3R1-PP1alpha association and immunoprecipitated the InsP3R1-PP1 complex from rat brain synaptosomes and from the neostriatal lysate. We also established that the association with PP1 facilitates dephosphorylation of PKA-phosphorylated InsP3R1 by the endogenous neostriatal PP1 and by the recombinant PP1alpaha. We demonstrated that exposure of neostriatal slices to 8-bromo-cAMP, dopamine, calyculin A, or cyclosporine A, but not to 10 nM okadaic acid, promotes the phosphorylation of neostriatal InsP3R1 by PKA in vivo. We discovered that PKA activates and PP1alpha inhibits the activity of recombinant InsP3R1 reconstituted into planar lipid bilayers. We found that phosphorylation of InsP3R1 by PKA induces at least a fourfold increase in the sensitivity of InsP3R1 to activation by InsP3 without shifting the peak of InsP3R1 bell-shaped Ca2+ dependence. Based on these data, we suggest that InsP3R1 may participate in cross talk between cAMP and Ca2+ signaling in the neostriatum and possibly in other regions of the brain.

Role of calcineurin in calcium-mediated hypoxic injury to white matter

BACKGROUND CONTEXT

Calcium influx into cells is responsible for initiating the "final pathway" to cell death in neuronal tissue after traumatic or hypoxic injury. The specific pathways in this cascade are myriad and the importance each one plays is controversial. It is clear, though, that blocking individual pathways confers protection to these tissues.

PURPOSE

In the present study we examined the role of Cyclosporin A (CsA), FK-506 and rapamycin in modulating the effects of Ca(2+) influx through their interactions with immunophilins and specifically the end result of calcineurin modulation.

METHODS

Dorsal columns were isolated from the spinal cord of adult rats and injured by exposure to hypoxic conditions for 60 minutes. The samples were monitored electrophysiologically in an in vitro recording chamber (maintained at 37 C degrees ) during injury, and the compound action potential (CAP) was monitored with glass microelectrodes. The dorsal column was exposed to hypoxic Ringers solution alone or with the different immunosuppressants and compared with baseline readings. Functional recovery of the dorsal column was then assessed by recovery of the CAP.

RESULTS

The mean CAP decreased to about 20% of baseline control levels during hypoxia and returned 53.8+/-7.6% of baseline (p<.05) after reoxygenation. CsA, an immunosuppressant known to inhibit calcineurin, promoted a significantly greater recovery of CAP amplitude to 76.8+/-5.2% and 72.1+/-13.2% of control (p<.05) after hypoxic injury and reoxygenation of dorsal column white matter when applied at concentrations of 1 microM and 10 microM, respectively. FK-506, which also inhibits calcineurin, was applied at a concentration of 0.1 microM, and promoted CAP amplitude recovery to 82.6+/-5.0% of control after hypoxic injury and reoxygenation of dorsal column white matter. The addition of rapamycin (1 microM), which binds to the same immunophilin as FK-506, to the FK-506 (0.1 microM) solution during hypoxic injury showed recovery of CAP amplitudes to only 56.9+/-6.7% of control. Electron microscopy revealed remarkable protection of axons and prevention of organelle disruption in segments treated with CsA and FK-506 during hypoxia when compared with hypoxic controls.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, both CsA and FK-506 confer in vitro protection to dorsal columns during hypoxic injury at physiological temperatures, and rapamycin blocks the protective effect of FK-506. Thus, calcineurin may play an important role in the physiology of neuronal injury.

The role of calmodulin for inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor function

Intracellular calcium release is a fundamental signaling mechanism in all eukaryotic cells. The ryanodine receptor (RyR) and inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor (IP(3)R) are intracellular calcium release channels. Both channels can be regulated by calcium and calmodulin (CaM). In this review we will first discuss the role of calcium as an activator and inactivator of the IP(3)R, concluding that calcium is the most important regulator of the IP(3)R. In the second part we will further focus on the role of CaM as modulator of the IP(3)R, using results of the voltage-dependent Ca(2+) channels and the RyR as reference material. Here we conclude that despite the fact that different CaM-binding sites have been characterized, their function for the IP(3)R remains elusive. In the third part we will discuss the possible functional role of CaM in IP(3)-induced Ca(2+) release (IICR) by direct and indirect mechanisms. Special attention will be given to the Ca(2+)-binding proteins (CaBPs) that were shown to activate the IP(3)R in the absence of IP(3).

The inhibition of the sarcoplasmic/endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPase by macrocyclic lactones and cyclosporin A

The pharmacology of macrocyclic lactones is varied, with many beneficial effects in treating disease processes. FK-506, rapamycin and ascomycin have been utilized as immunosuppressant agents. Ivermectin is typically used to treat parasitic worm infections in mammals. Another immunosuppressant, cyclosporin A, is a cyclic oligotide that has similar immunosuppressant properties to those exerted by macrocyclic lactones. Here we report on the inhibition by these compounds of sarcoplasmic/endoplasmic-reticulum Ca(2+)-ATPase (SERCA) Ca(2+) pumps. Ivermectin, cyclosporin A and rapamycin all inhibited the skeletal muscle sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca(2+)-ATPase (SERCA1). In addition, although ivermectin inhibited brain microsomal endoplasmic reticulum (type 2b) Ca(2+)-ATPase, cyclosporin A and rapamycin did not. As cyclosporin A also did not inhibit cardiac Ca(2+)-ATPase activity, this would suggest that it could be an isoform-specific inhibitor. Ivermectin was shown to be the most potent Ca(2+)-ATPase inhibitor of the macrocyclic lactones (IC(50)=7 microM). It appears to show a 'competitive' inhibition with respect to high concentrations of ATP by increasing the regulatory binding site K(m) but without affecting the catalytic site K(m). In addition, ivermectin stabilizes the ATPase in an E1 conformational state, and inhibits Ca(2+) release from the enzyme during turnover. This would suggest that ivermectin inhibits Ca(2+) release from the luminal binding sites of the phosphoenzyme intermediate, a step that is known to be accelerated by high [ATP].

Termination of cardiac Ca(2+) sparks: an investigative mathematical model of calcium-induced calcium release

A Ca(2+) spark arises when a cluster of sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) channels (ryanodine receptors or RyRs) opens to release calcium in a locally regenerative manner. Normally triggered by Ca(2+) influx across the sarcolemmal or transverse tubule membrane neighboring the cluster, the Ca(2+) spark has been shown to be the elementary Ca(2+) signaling event of excitation-contraction coupling in heart muscle. However, the question of how the Ca(2+) spark terminates remains a central, unresolved issue. Here we present a new model, "sticky cluster," of SR Ca(2+) release that simulates Ca(2+) spark behavior and enables robust Ca(2+) spark termination. Two newly documented features of RyR behavior have been incorporated in this otherwise simple model: "coupled gating" and an opening rate that depends on SR lumenal [Ca(2+)]. Using a Monte Carlo method, local Ca(2+)-induced Ca(2+) release from clusters containing between 10 and 100 RyRs is modeled. After release is triggered, Ca(2+) flux from RyRs diffuses into the cytosol and binds to intracellular buffers and the fluorescent Ca(2+) indicator fluo-3 to produce the model Ca(2+) spark. Ca(2+) sparks generated by the sticky cluster model resemble those observed experimentally, and Ca(2+) spark duration and amplitude are largely insensitive to the number of RyRs in a cluster. As expected from heart cell investigation, the spontaneous Ca(2+) spark rate in the model increases with elevated cytosolic or SR lumenal [Ca(2+)]. Furthermore, reduction of RyR coupling leads to prolonged model Ca(2+) sparks just as treatment with FK506 lengthens Ca(2+) sparks in heart cells. This new model of Ca(2+) spark behavior provides a "proof of principle" test of a new hypothesis for Ca(2+) spark termination and reproduces critical features of Ca(2+) sparks observed experimentally.

Modulation of type-1 Ins(1,4,5)P3 receptor channels by the FK506-binding protein, FKBP12

FK506-binding protein (FKBP12) is highly expressed in neuronal tissue, where it is proposed to localize calcineurin to intracellular calcium-release channels, ryanodine receptors and Ins(1,4,5)P(3) receptors (InsP(3)Rs). The effects of FKBP12 on ryanodine receptors have been well characterized but the nature and function of binding of FKBP12 to InsP(3)R is more controversial, with evidence for and against a tight interaction between these two proteins. To investigate this, we incorporated purified type-1 InsP(3)R from rat cerebellum into planar lipid bilayers to monitor the effects of exogenous recombinant FKBP12 on single-channel activity, using K(+) as the current carrier. Here we report for the first time that FKBP12 causes a substantial change in single-channel properties of the type-1 InsP(3)R, specifically to increase the amount of time the channel spends in a fully open state. In the presence of ATP, FKBP12 can also induce co-ordinated gating with neighbouring receptors. The effects of FKBP12 were reversed by FK506. We also present data showing that rapamycin, at sub-optimal concentrations of Ins(2,4,5)P(3), decreases the rate of calcium release from cerebellar microsomes. These results provide evidence for a direct functional interaction between FKBP12 and the type-1 InsP(3)R.

Regulation of Ins(1,4,5)P3 receptor isoforms by endogenous modulators

Three isoforms of the inositol (1,4,5)-trisphosphate [Ins(1,4,5)P3] receptor have been identified. Each receptor isoform has been functionally characterized using many different techniques. Although these receptor isoforms possess high homology, interesting differences in their Ca2+ dependence, Ins(1,4,5)P3 sensitivity and subcellular distribution exist, implying distinct cellular roles. Indeed, interplay among the isoforms might be necessary for a cell to control spatial and temporal aspects of cytosolic Ca2+ signals, which are important for many cellular processes. In this review isoform-specific functions, primarily at the single-channel level, will be highlighted and these properties will be correlated with Ca2+ signals in intact cells.

Analysis of type 1 ryanodine receptor-12 kDa FK506-binding protein interaction

Although dissociation of the 12 kDa FK506 binding protein (FKBP12)-type 1 ryanodine receptor (RyR1) complex by macrolide immunosuppressants is well documented, effects of many solutes and drugs have not been quantitated. In the current study, the influence of these on binding between solubilised RyR1 and an FKBP12-glutathione-S-transferase fusion protein was analysed using a novel assay. Association between these two proteins is stable, and is not greatly altered by changes in temperature, pH, cations, and endogenous solutes over physiological ranges. Ascomycin, an FK506 analogue, was identified for the first time as a drug which can disrupt the FKBP12-RyR1 complex.