Coupling between transepithelial Na transport and basolateral K conductance in renal proximal tubule

EAST syndrome: Clinical, pathophysiological, and genetic aspects of mutations in KCNJ10

EAST syndrome is a recently described autosomal recessive disorder secondary to mutations in KCNJ10 (Kir4.1), a gene encoding a potassium channel expressed in the brain, eye, ear and kidney. This condition is characterized by 4 cardinal features; Epilepsy, Ataxia, Sensorineural deafness, and (a renal salt-wasting) Tubulopathy, hence the acronym EAST syndrome. Here we review reported clinical manifestations, in particular the neurological signs and symptoms which typically have the most impact on the quality of life of patients. In addition we review the pathophysiology and genetic aspects of the disease. So far 14 different KCNJ10 mutations have been published which either directly affect channel function or may lead to mislocalisation. Investigations of the pathophysiology may provide clues to potential treatments.

The gasotransmitter hydrogen sulphide decreases Na⁺ transport across pulmonary epithelial cells

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE The transepithelial absorption of Na(+) in the lungs is crucial for the maintenance of the volume and composition of epithelial lining fluid. The regulation of Na(+) transport is essential, because hypo- or hyperabsorption of Na(+) is associated with lung diseases such as pulmonary oedema or cystic fibrosis. This study investigated the effects of the gaseous signalling molecule hydrogen sulphide (H(2) S) on Na(+) absorption across pulmonary epithelial cells. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Ion transport processes were electrophysiologically assessed in Ussing chambers on H441 cells grown on permeable supports at air/liquid interface and on native tracheal preparations of pigs and mice. The effects of H(2)S were further investigated on Na(+) channels expressed in Xenopus oocytes and Na(+) /K(+)-ATPase activity in vitro. Membrane abundance of Na(+) /K(+)-ATPase was determined by surface biotinylation and Western blot. Cellular ATP concentrations were measured colorimetrically, and cytosolic Ca(2+) concentrations were measured with Fura-2. KEY RESULTS H(2)S rapidly and reversibly inhibited Na(+) transport in all the models employed. H(2)S had no effect on Na(+) channels, whereas it decreased Na(+) /K(+)-ATPase currents. H(2)S did not affect the membrane abundance of Na(+) /K(+)-ATPase, its metabolic or calcium-dependent regulation, or its direct activity. However, H(2)S inhibited basolateral calcium-dependent K(+) channels, which consequently decreased Na(+) absorption by H441 monolayers. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS H(2) S impairs pulmonary transepithelial Na(+) absorption, mainly by inhibiting basolateral Ca(2+)-dependent K(+) channels. These data suggest that the H(2)S signalling system might represent a novel pharmacological target for modifying pulmonary transepithelial Na(+) transport.

Basolateral membrane K+ channels in renal epithelial cells

The major function of epithelial tissues is to maintain proper ion, solute, and water homeostasis. The tubule of the renal nephron has an amazingly simple structure, lined by epithelial cells, yet the segments (i.e., proximal tubule vs. collecting duct) of the nephron have unique transport functions. The functional differences are because epithelial cells are polarized and thus possess different patterns (distributions) of membrane transport proteins in the apical and basolateral membranes of the cell. K(+) channels play critical roles in normal physiology. Over 90 different genes for K(+) channels have been identified in the human genome. Epithelial K(+) channels can be located within either or both the apical and basolateral membranes of the cell. One of the primary functions of basolateral K(+) channels is to recycle K(+) across the basolateral membrane for proper function of the Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase, among other functions. Mutations of these channels can cause significant disease. The focus of this review is to provide an overview of the basolateral K(+) channels of the nephron, providing potential physiological functions and pathophysiology of these channels, where appropriate. We have taken a "K(+) channel gene family" approach in presenting the representative basolateral K(+) channels of the nephron. The basolateral K(+) channels of the renal epithelia are represented by members of the KCNK, KCNJ, KCNQ, KCNE, and SLO gene families.

Potassium excretion during antinatriuresis: perspective from a distal nephron model

Renal excretion of Na(+) and K(+) must be regulated independently within the distal nephron, but is complicated by the fact that changing excretion of one solute requires adjustments in the transport of both. It is long known that hypovolemia increases Na(+) reabsorption while impairing K(+) excretion, even when distal Na(+) delivery is little changed. Renewed interest in this micropuncture observation came with identification of the molecular defects underlying familial hyperkalemic hypertension (FHH), which also increases distal Na(+) reabsorption and impairs K(+) excretion. In this work, a mathematical model of the distal nephron (Weinstein AM. Am J Physiol Renal Physiol 295: F1353-F1364, 2008), including the distal convoluted tubule (DCT), connecting segment (CNT), and collecting duct (CD), is used to examine renal K(+) excretion during antinatriuresis. Within the model, Na(+) avidity is represented as the modulation of DCT NaCl reabsorption, and the K(+) secretion signal is an aldosterone-like effect on principal cells of the CNT and CD. The first model prediction is that changes in DCT NaCl reabsorption are not mediated by NaCl cotransporter density alone, but require additional adjustments of both peritubular Na-K-ATPase and KCl cotransport. A second observation is that the CNT response to increased DCT Na(+) reabsorption should not only stabilize CD K(+) delivery but also compensate for the compromise of K(+) excretion downstream, as low Na(+) delivery increases CD K(+) reabsorption. Such anticipatory regulation is seen with the aldosterone response of hypovolemia, while the FHH phenotype manifests enhanced DCT NaCl transport but a blunted aldosterone effect. The model emphasizes the need for two distinct signals to the distal nephron, regulating Na(+) excretion and K(+) excretion, in contrast to a single switch apportioning NaCl reabsorption and Na(+)-for-K(+) exchange.

KCNJ10 gene mutations causing EAST syndrome (epilepsy, ataxia, sensorineural deafness, and tubulopathy) disrupt channel function

Mutations of the KCNJ10 (Kir4.1) K(+) channel underlie autosomal recessive epilepsy, ataxia, sensorineural deafness, and (a salt-wasting) renal tubulopathy (EAST) syndrome. We investigated the localization of KCNJ10 and the homologous KCNJ16 in kidney and the functional consequences of KCNJ10 mutations found in our patients with EAST syndrome. Kcnj10 and Kcnj16 were found in the basolateral membrane of mouse distal convoluted tubules, connecting tubules, and cortical collecting ducts. In the human kidney, KCNJ10 staining was additionally observed in the basolateral membrane of the cortical thick ascending limb of Henle's loop. EM of distal tubular cells of a patient with EAST syndrome showed reduced basal infoldings in this nephron segment, which likely reflects the morphological consequences of the impaired salt reabsorption capacity. When expressed in CHO and HEK293 cells, the KCNJ10 mutations R65P, G77R, and R175Q caused a marked impairment of channel function. R199X showed complete loss of function. Single-channel analysis revealed a strongly reduced mean open time. Qualitatively similar results were obtained with coexpression of KCNJ10/KCNJ16, suggesting a dominance of KCNJ10 function in native renal KCNJ10/KCNJ16 heteromers. The decrease in the current of R65P and R175Q was mainly caused by a remarkable shift of pH sensitivity to the alkaline range. In summary, EAST mutations of KCNJ10 lead to impaired channel function and structural changes in distal convoluted tubules. Intriguingly, the metabolic alkalosis present in patients carrying the R65P mutation possibly improves residual function of KCNJ10, which shows higher activity at alkaline pH.

The role of volume-sensitive ion transport systems in regulation of epithelial transport

This review focuses on using the knowledge on volume-sensitive transport systems in Ehrlich ascites tumour cells and NIH-3T3 cells to elucidate osmotic regulation of salt transport in epithelia. Using the intestine of the European eel (Anguilla anguilla) (an absorptive epithelium of the type described in the renal cortex thick ascending limb (cTAL)) we have focused on the role of swelling-activated K+- and anion-conductive pathways in response to hypotonicity, and on the role of the apical (luminal) Na+-K+-2Cl- cotransporter (NKCC2) in the response to hypertonicity. The shrinkage-induced activation of NKCC2 involves an interaction between the cytoskeleton and protein phosphorylation events via PKC and myosin light chain kinase (MLCK). Killifish (Fundulus heteroclitus) opercular epithelium is a Cl(-)-secreting epithelium of the type described in exocrine glands, having a CFTR channel on the apical side and the Na+/K+ ATPase, NKCC1 and a K+ channel on the basolateral side. Osmotic control of Cl- secretion across the operculum epithelium includes: (i) hyperosmotic shrinkage activation of NKCC1 via PKC, MLCK, p38, OSR1 and SPAK; (ii) deactivation of NKCC by hypotonic cell swelling and a protein phosphatase, and (iii) a protein tyrosine kinase acting on the focal adhesion kinase (FAK) to set levels of NKCC activity.

Overexpression of Na(+)/K (+)-ATPase parallels the increase in sodium transport and potassium recycling in an in vitro model of proximal tubule cellular ageing

Na(+)/K(+)-ATPase plays a key role in the transport of Na(+) throughout the nephron, but ageing appears to be accompanied by changes in the regulation and localization of the pump. In the present study, we examined the effect of in vitro cell ageing on the transport of Na(+) and K(+) ions in opossum kidney (OK) cells in culture. Cells were aged by repeated passing, and Na(+)/K(+)-ATPase activity and K(+) conductance were evaluated using electrophysiological methods. Na(+)K(+)-ATPase alpha(1)- and beta(1)-subunit expression was quantified by Western blot techniques. Na(+)/H(+) exchanger activity, changes in membrane potential, cell viability, hydrogen peroxide production and cellular proliferation were determined using fluorimetric assays. In vitro cell ageing is accompanied by an increase in transepithelial Na(+) transport, which results from an increase in the number of Na(+)/K(+)-ATPase alpha(1)- and beta(1)-subunits, in the membrane. Increases in Na(+)/K(+)-ATPase activity were accompanied by increases in K(+) conductance as a result of functional coupling between Na(+)/K(+)-ATPase and basolateral K(+) channels. Cell depolarization induced by both KCl and ouabain was more pronounced in aged cells. No changes in Na(+)/H(+) exchanger activity were observed. H(2)O(2) production was increased in aged cells, but exposure for 5 days to 1 and 10 microM: of H(2)O(2) had no effect on Na(+)/K(+)-ATPase expression. Ouabain (100 nM: ) increased alpha(1)-subunit, but not beta(1)-subunit, Na(+)/K(+)-ATPase expression in aged cells only. These cells constitute an interesting model for the study of renal epithelial cell ageing.

Flow-dependent transport in a mathematical model of rat proximal tubule

The mathematical model of rat proximal tubule has been extended to include calculation of microvillous torque and to incorporate torque-dependent solute transport in a compliant tubule. The torque calculation follows that of Du Z, Yan Q, Duan Y, Weinbaum S, Weinstein AM, and Wang T (Am J Physiol 290: F289-F296, 2006). In the model calculations, torque-dependent scaling of luminal membrane transporter density [either as an ensemble or just type 3 Na(+)/H(+) exchanger (NHE3) alone] had a relatively small impact on overall Na(+) reabsorption and could produce a lethal derangement of cell volume; coordinated regulation of luminal and peritubular transporters was required to represent the overall impact of luminal flow on Na(+) reabsorption. When the magnitude of torque-dependent Na(+) reabsorption in the model agrees with that observed in mouse proximal tubules, the model tubule shows nearly perfect perfusion-absorption balance at high luminal perfusion rates, but enhanced sensitivity of reabsorption at low flow. With a slightly lower coefficient for torque-sensitive transporter insertion, perfusion-absorption balance in the model tubule is closer to observations in the rat over a broader range of inlet flows. In simulation of hyperglycemia, torque-dependent transport attenuated the diuretic effect and brought the model tubule into closer agreement with experimental observation in the rat. The model was also extended to represent finite rates of hydration and dehydration of CO(2) and H(2)CO(3). With carbonic anhydrase inhibition, torque-dependent transport blunted the diuretic effect and enhanced the shift from paracellular to transcellular NaCl reabsorption. The new features of this model tubule are an important step toward simulation of glomerulotubular balance.

Hypotonicity induced K+ and anion conductive pathways activation in eel intestinal epithelium

Control of cell volume is a fundamental and highly conserved physiological mechanism, essential for survival under varying environmental and metabolic conditions. Epithelia (such as intestine, renal tubule, gallbladder and gills) are tissues physiologically exposed to osmotic stress. Therefore, the activation of 'emergency' systems of rapid cell volume regulation is fundamental in their physiology. The aim of the present work was to study the physiological response to hypotonic stress in a salt-transporting epithelium, the intestine of the euryhaline teleost Anguilla anguilla. Eel intestinal epithelium, when symmetrically bathed with Ringer solution, develops a net Cl- current giving rise to a negative transepithelial potential at the basolateral side of the epithelium. The eel intestinal epithelium responded to a hypotonic challenge with a biphasic decrease in the transepithelial voltage (V(te)) and the short circuit current (I(sc)). This electrophysiological response correlated with a regulatory volume decrease (RVD) response, recorded by morphometrical measurement of the epithelium height. Changes in the transepithelial resistance were also observed following the hypotonicity exposure. The electrogenic V(te) and I(sc) responses to hypotonicity resulted from the activation of different K+ and anion conductive pathways on the apical and basolateral membranes of the epithelium: (a) iberiotoxin-sensitive K+ channels on the apical and basolateral membrane, (b) apamin-sensitive K+ channels mainly on the basolateral membrane, (c) DIDS-sensitive anion channels on the apical membrane. The functional integrity of the basal Cl- conductive pathway on the basolateral membrane is also required. The electrophysiological response to hypotonic stress was completely abolished by Ca2+ removal from the Ringer perfusing solution, but was not affected by depletion of intracellular Ca2+ stores by thapsigargin.

Molecular diversity and regulation of renal potassium channels

K(+) channels are widely distributed in both plant and animal cells where they serve many distinct functions. K(+) channels set the membrane potential, generate electrical signals in excitable cells, and regulate cell volume and cell movement. In renal tubule epithelial cells, K(+) channels are not only involved in basic functions such as the generation of the cell-negative potential and the control of cell volume, but also play a uniquely important role in K(+) secretion. Moreover, K(+) channels participate in the regulation of vascular tone in the glomerular circulation, and they are involved in the mechanisms mediating tubuloglomerular feedback. Significant progress has been made in defining the properties of renal K(+) channels, including their location within tubule cells, their biophysical properties, regulation, and molecular structure. Such progress has been made possible by the application of single-channel analysis and the successful cloning of K(+) channels of renal origin.

Proximal renal tubular acidosis in TASK2 K+ channel-deficient mice reveals a mechanism for stabilizing bicarbonate transport

The acid- and volume-sensitive TASK2 K+ channel is strongly expressed in renal proximal tubules and papillary collecting ducts. This study was aimed at investigating the role of TASK2 in renal bicarbonate reabsorption by using the task2 -/- mouse as a model. After backcross to C57BL6, task2 -/- mice showed an increased perinatal mortality and, in adulthood, a reduced body weight and arterial blood pressure. Patch-clamp experiments on proximal tubular cells indicated that TASK2 was activated during HCO3- transport. In control inulin clearance measurements, task2 -/- mice showed normal NaCl and water excretion. During i.v. NaHCO3 perfusion, however, renal Na+ and water reabsorption capacity was reduced in -/- animals. In conscious task2 -/- mice, blood pH, HCO3- concentration, and systemic base excess were reduced but urinary pH and HCO3- were increased. These data suggest that task2 -/- mice exhibit metabolic acidosis caused by renal loss of HCO3-. Both in vitro and in vivo results demonstrate the specific coupling of TASK2 activity to HCO3- transport through external alkalinization. The consequences of the task2 gene inactivation in mice are reminiscent of the clinical manifestations seen in human proximal renal tubular acidosis syndrome.

Regulation of renal K transport by dietary K intake

Extracellular K must be kept within a narrow concentration range for the normal function of neurons, skeletal muscle, and cardiac myocytes. Maintenance of normal plasma K is achieved by a dual mechanism that includes extrarenal factors such as insulin and beta-adrenergic agonists, which stimulate the movement of K from extracellular to intracellular fluid and modulate renal K excretion. Dietary K intake is an important factor for the regulation of K secretion: An increase in K intake stimulates secretion, whereas a decrease inhibits K secretion and enhances absorption. This effect of changes in dietary K intake on tubule K transport is mediated by aldosterone-dependent and -independent mechanisms. Recently, it has been demonstrated that the protein tyrosine kinase (PTK)-dependent signal transduction pathway is an important aldosterone-independent regulatory mechanism that mediates the effect of altered K intake on K secretion. A low-K intake stimulates PTK activity, which leads to increase in phosphorylation of cloned inwardly rectifying renal K (ROMK) channels, whereas a high-K intake has the opposite effect. Stimulation of tyrosine phosphorylation also suppresses K secretion in principal cell by facilitating the internalization of apical K channels in the collecting duct.

Hypoxia-induced inhibition of whole cell membrane currents and ion transport of A549 cells

In excitable cells, hypoxia inhibits K channels, causes membrane depolarization, and initiates complex adaptive mechanisms. It is unclear whether K channels of alveolar epithelial cells reveal a similar response to hypoxia. A549 cells were exposed to hypoxia during whole cell patch-clamp measurements. Hypoxia reversibly inhibited a voltage-dependent outward current, consistent with a K current, because tetraethylamonium (TEA; 10 mM) abolished this effect; however, iberiotoxin (0.1 microM) does not. In normoxia, TEA and iberiotoxin inhibited whole cell current (-35%), whereas the K-channel inhibitors glibenclamide (1 microM), barium (1 mM), chromanol B293 (10 microM), and 4-aminopyridine (1 mM) were ineffective. (86)Rb uptake was measured to see whether K-channel modulation also affected transport activity. TEA, iberiotoxin, and 4-h hypoxia (1.5% O(2)) inhibited total (86)Rb uptake by 40, 20, and 35%, respectively. Increased extracellular K also inhibited (86)Rb uptake in a dose-dependent way. The K-channel opener 1-ethyl-2-benzimidazolinone (1 mM) increased (86)Rb uptake by 120% in normoxic and hypoxic cells by activation of Na-K pumps (+60%) and Na-K-2Cl cotransport (+170%). However, hypoxic transport inhibition was also seen in the presence of 1-ethyl-2-benzimidazolinone, TEA, and iberiotoxin. These results indicate that hypoxia, membrane depolarization, and K-channel inhibition decrease whole cell membrane currents and transport activity. It appears, therefore, that a hypoxia-induced change in membrane conductance and membrane potential might be a link between hypoxia and alveolar ion transport inhibition.

Activity of the basolateral K+ channels is coupled to the Na+-K+-ATPase in the cortical collecting duct

Microelectrode and patch-clamp techniques were used in the isolated cortical collecting duct to study the effects of stimulating Na+-K+-ATPase by raising bath K+ (Fujii Y and Katz AI. Am J Physiol Renal Fluid Electrolyte Physiol 257: F595-F601, 1989 and Muto S, Asano Y, Seldin D, and Giebisch. Am J Physiol Renal Physiol 276: F143-F158, 1999) on the transepithelial (VT) and basolateral membrane (VB) voltages and basolateral K+ channel activity. Increasing bath K+ from 2.5 to 8.5 mM resulted in an initial hyperpolarization of both VT and VB followed by a delayed depolarization. The effects of raising bath K+ on VT and VB were attenuated by decreasing luminal Na+ from 146.8 to 14.0 mM and were abolished by removal of luminal Na+, whereas those were magnified in desoxycorticosterone acetate (DOCA)-treated rabbits. Increasing bath K+ also led to a significant reduction of the intracellular Na+ and Ca2+ concentrations. The transepithelial conductance (GT) or fractional apical membrane resistance (fRA) were unaltered during the initial hyperpolarization phase, whereas, in the late depolarization phase, there were an increase in GT and a decrease in fRA, both of which were attenuated in the presence of low luminal Na+ (14.0 mM). In tubules from DOCA-treated animals, bath Ba2+ not only caused a significantly larger initial hyperpolarization of VT and VB but also blunted the late depolarization by high bath K+. Nomega-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester (l-NAME) partially mimicked the effect of Ba2+ and decreased the amplitude of the late depolarization. Patch-clamp experiments showed that raising bath K+ from 2.5 to 8.5 mM resulted in an increased activity of the basolateral K+ channel, which was absent in the presence of l-NAME. We conclude that stimulation of Na+-K+-ATPase increases the basolateral K+ conductance and that this effect involves suppression of nitric oxide-dependent inhibition of K+ channels.

Dopamine D2-like receptor-mediated opening of K+ channels in opossum kidney cells

(1) This study examined the effects of dopamine D(1)- and D(2)-like receptor activation upon basolateral K(+) (I(K)) currents and changes in membrane potential in opossum kidney (OK) cells. (2) The addition of amphotericin B (3 micro g ml(-1)) to the apical side resulted in a rapid increase in I(K), this effect being markedly inhibited by the addition of the K(+) channel blockers barium chloride (1 mM) or glibenclamide (10 micro M), but not apamin (1 micro M). The K(+) channel opener pinacidil increased the amphotericin B-induced I(K). The selective D(2)-like receptor agonist quinerolane increased, in a concentration dependent manner (EC(50)=136 nM), I(K) across the basolateral membrane, this effect being abolished by pre-treatment with pertussis toxin (PTX), S-sulpiride (selective D(2)-like receptor antagonist) and glibenclamide. The selective D(1)-like receptor agonist SKF 38393 did not change I(K). Both H-89 (PKA inhibitor) and chelerythrine (PKC inhibitor) failed to prevent the stimulatory effect of quinerolane upon I(K). (3) Quinerolane did not change basal levels of cyclic AMP and also failed to affect the forskolin-induced increase in cyclic AMP levels. (4) The stimulation of D(2)-like receptor was associated with a rapid hyperpolarizing effect, whereas D(1)-like receptor activation was accompanied by increases in cell membrane potential. The hyperpolarizing effect of quinerolane (EC(50)=129 nM) was prevented by pre-treatment with PTX, S-sulpiride and glibenclamide. (5) It is concluded that stimulation of dopamine D(2)-like, but not D(1)-like, receptors coupled to PTX-sensitive G proteins of the G(i/o) class produce membrane hyperpolarization through opening of K(ATP) channels.

Angiotensin II stimulates basolateral K channels in rat cortical collecting ducts

We used the patch-clamp technique to study the effects of angiotensin II (ANG II) on basolateral K channels in cortical collecting ducts (CCDs). Application of ANG II (100 pM-100 nM) increased the activity of basolateral 18-pS K channels. This effect of ANG II was completely abolished by losartan, which is an antagonist of type 1 angiotensin (AT(1)) receptors. In contrast, inhibition of type 2 angiotensin (AT(2)) receptors did not block the stimulatory effect of ANG II. Also, application of ANG II significantly increased intracellular Ca(2+) concentrations, which were measured with fura 2 dye. To explore the role of Ca(2+)-dependent pathways in the regulation of basolateral K channels, the effects of ANG II on channel activity were examined in the presence of arachidonyltrifluoromethyl ketone to inhibit phospholipase A(2) (PLA(2)), GF-109203X [a protein kinase C (PKC) inhibitor], and N(G)-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester (l-NAME) to inhibit nitric oxide synthase. Inhibition of either PLA(2) or PKC did not block the effect of ANG II on basolateral K-channel activity. However, the stimulatory effect of ANG II was absent in the CCDs treated with l-NAME. Moreover, addition of the membrane-permeant 8-bromo-guanosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate (8-bromo-cGMP) not only increased channel activity but also abolished the stimulatory effect of ANG II on channel activity. We conclude that ANG II increases basolateral K-channel activity via the stimulation of AT(1) receptors, and the stimulatory effect of ANG II is mediated by a nitric oxide-dependent cGMP pathway.

D2-like receptor-mediated inhibition of Na+-K+-ATPase activity is dependent on the opening of K+ channels

This study examined the effects of D2-like dopamine receptor activation on Na+-K+-ATPase activity while apical-to-basal, ouabain-sensitive, amphotericin B-induced increases in short-circuit current and basolateral K+ (I(K)) currents in opossum kidney cells were measured. The inhibitory effect of dopamin on Na+-K+-ATPase activity was completely abolished by either D1- or D2-like receptor antagonists and mimicked by D1- and D2-like receptor agonists SKF-38393 and quinerolane, respectively. Blockade of basolateral K+ channels with BaCl2 (1 mM) or glibenclamide (10 microM), but not apamin (1 microM), totally prevented the inhibitory effects of quinerolane. The K+ channel opener pinacidil decreased Na+-K+-ATPase activity. The inhibitory effect of quinerolane on Na+-K+- ATPase activity was abolished by pretreatment of opossum kidney cells with pertussis toxin (PTX). Quinerolane increased I(K) across the basolateral membrane in a concentration-dependent manner; this effect was abolished by pretreatment with PTX, S-sulpiride, and glibenclamide. SKF-38393 did not change I(K). Both H-89 (protein kinase A inhibitor) and chelerythrine (protein kinase C inhibitor) failed to prevent the stimulatory effect of quinerolane on I(K). The stimulation of the D2-like receptor was associated with a rapid hyperpolarizing effect, whereas D1-like receptor activation was accompanied by increases in cell membrane potential. It is concluded that stimulation of D2-like receptors leads to inhibition of Na+-K+-ATPase activity and hyperpolarization; both effects are associated with the opening of K+ channels.

Cloning of rabbit Kir6.1, SUR2A, and SUR2B: possible candidates for a renal K(ATP) channel

In rabbit proximal tubules, a basolateral ATP- and taurine-sensitive K(+) channel (K(ATP)) was shown to be involved in the regulation of the basolateral K(+) conductance as a function of the rate of apical Na(+) entry. To establish the molecular identity of this channel, we used degenerated primers to look for cDNA transcripts for an inwardly rectifying K(+) channel (Kir6.1 and Kir6.2) and sulfonylurea receptors (SUR1, SUR2A, and SUR2B) in a cDNA library obtained from rabbit proximal tubules. PCR products were found only for Kir6.1, SUR2A, and SUR2B. Expression of Kir6.1 in Xenopus oocytes generated an additional K(+) current that was found to be sensitive to external barium and intracellular taurine and to changes in intracellular ATP concentrations. To study the specificity of the taurine sensitivity, intracellular taurine was tested on several members of the Kir family expressed in Xenopus oocytes. K(+) currents induced by Kir1.1A, Kir2.1, Kir3.2, Kir4.1, or Kir5.1 were insensitive to taurine, but all tested combinations of Kir6.x with or without the SUR subunit were significantly inhibited by taurine. This study suggests that the taurine-sensitive K(ATP) channel of rabbit proximal tubules is formed by a combination of Kir6.1 plus SUR2A and/or SUR2B.

Ca2+ mediates the effect of inhibition of Na+-K+-ATPase on the basolateral K+ channels in the rat CCD

We investigated the effect of inhibiting Na+-K+-ATPase on the basolateral 18-pS K+ channel in the cortical collecting duct (CCD) of the rat kidney. Inhibiting Na+-K+-ATPase with strophanthidin decreased the activity of the 18-pS K+ channel and increased the intracellular Ca2+ to 420 nM. Removal of extracellular Ca2+ abolished the effect of strophanthidin. When intracellular Ca2+ was raised with 5 microM ionomycin or A-23187 to 300, 400, and 500 nM, the activity of the 18-pS K+ channel in cell-attached patches fell by 40, 85, and 96%, respectively. To explore the mechanism of Ca2+-induced inhibition, the effect of 400 nM Ca2+ on channel activity was studied in the presence of calphostin C, an inhibitor of protein kinase C, or KN-93 and KN-62, inhibitors of calmodulin-dependent kinase II. Addition of calphostin C or KN-93 or KN-62 failed to block the inhibitory effect of high concentrations of Ca2+ . This suggested that the inhibitory effect of high concentrations of Ca2+ was not mediated by protein kinase C or calmodulin-dependent kinase II pathways. To examine the possibility that the inhibitory effect of high concentrations of Ca2+ was mediated by the interaction of nitric oxide with superoxide, we investigated the effect of 400 nM Ca2+ on channel activity in the presence of 4,5-dihydroxy-1,3-benzenedisulfonic acid (Tiron) or N(omega)-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester. Pretreatment of the tubules with 4,5-dihydroxy-1,3-benzenedisulfonic acid or N(omega)-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester completely abolished the inhibitory effect of 400 nM Ca2+ on channel activity. Moreover, application of 4,5-dihydroxy-1,3-benzenedisulfonic acid reversed the inhibitory effect of strophanthidin. We conclude that the effect of inhibiting Na+-K+-ATPase is mediated by intracellular Ca2+ and the inhibitory effect of high concentrations of Ca2+ is the result of interaction of nitric oxide with superoxide.

Stimulation of Na+-alanine cotransport activates a voltage-dependent conductance in single proximal tubule cells isolated from frog kidney

1. The swelling induced by Na+-alanine cotransport in proximal tubule cells of the frog kidney is followed by regulatory volume decrease (RVD). This RVD is inhibited by gadolinium (Gd3+), an inhibitor of stretch-activated channels, but is independent of extracellular Ca2+. 2. In this study, the whole cell patch clamp technique was utilized to examine the effect of Na+-alanine cotransport on two previously identified volume- and Gd3+-sensitive conductances. One conductance is voltage dependent and anion selective (GVD) whilst the other is voltage independent and cation selective (GVI). 3. Addition of 5 mM L-alanine to the bathing solution increased the whole cell conductance and gave a positive (depolarizing) shift in the reversal potential (Vrev, equivalent to the membrane potential in current-clamped cells) consistent with activation of Na+-alanine cotransport. Vrev shifted from -36 +/- 4.9 to +12.9 +/- 4.2 mV (n = 15). 4. In the presence of alanine, the total whole cell conductance had several components including the cotransporter conductance and GVD and GVI. These conductances were separated using Gd3+, which inhibits both GVD and GVI, and the time dependency of GVD. Of these two volume-sensitive conductances, L-alanine elicited a specific increase in GVD, whereas GVI was unaffected. 5. The L-alanine-induced activation of GVD was significantly reduced when cells were incubated in a hypertonic bathing solution. 6. In summary, in single proximal tubule cells isolated from frog kidney, on stimulation of Na+-alanine cotransport GVD is activated, while GVI is unaffected. Taken with other evidence, this suggests that GVD is activated by cell swelling, consequent upon alanine entry, and may play a role as an anion efflux pathway during alanine-induced volume regulation.

The role of Ca2+ in volume regulation induced by Na+-coupled alanine uptake in single proximal tubule cells isolated from frog kidney

1. It has been suggested that epithelial cells maintain cell volume and function, in the face of changes in the rate of transepithelial transport, by activation of volume-regulatory pathways. 2. The aim of the following study was to examine directly the effect of an alteration in Na+-coupled alanine transport on cell length in single proximal tubule cells isolated from frog kidney. 3. An optical technique was used to examine the change in cell length induced by 5 mM L-alanine. 4. On addition of L-alanine to the bath there was an initial increase in cell length to a peak value. This was followed by two types of response. In eighteen out of thirty-one cells a typical volume-regulatory response was observed. The remaining cells showed no volume regulation. 5. Volume regulation was not affected by the removal of extracellular Ca2+. The mean degrees of recovery were 159 +/- 21 % (n = 18) and 144 +/- 18 % (n = 8) in the presence and absence of Ca2+, respectively. 6. Volume regulation was inhibited by depletion of intracellular Ca2+ stores, or in the presence of either Gd3+ or DIDS. The mean degrees of regulation were 55.4 +/- 9.2 % (n = 7), 68.2 +/- 18.8 % (n = 7) and 69.1 +/- 14.3 % (n = 7), respectively. 7. The alanine-induced increases in cell length were both stereospecific and Na+ dependent. 8. The evidence suggests that volume regulation induced by Na+-coupled alanine uptake may be dependent on the release of Ca2+ from intracellular stores. This is in contrast to volume regulation induced by hypotonic shock, which appears to require extracellular Ca2+. Results obtained using a hypotonic shock should, therefore, be viewed with caution.

Regulation of an inwardly rectifying ATP-sensitive K+ channel in the basolateral membrane of renal proximal tubule

Functional coupling of Na+,K+-ATPase pump activity to a basolateral membrane (BLM) K+ conductance is crucial for sustaining transport in the proximal tubule. Apical sodium entry stimulates pump activity, lowering cytosolic [ATP], which in turn disinhibits ATP-sensitive K+ (KATP) channels. Opening of these KATP channels mediates hyperpolarization of the BLM that facilitates Na+ reabsorption and K+ recycling required for continued Na+,K+-ATPase pump turnover. Despite its physiological importance, little is known about the regulation of this channel. The present study focuses on the regulation of the BLM KATP channel by second messengers and protein kinases using membrane patches from dissociated, polarized Ambystoma proximal tubule cells. The channel is regulated by protein kinases A and C, but in opposing directions. The channel is activated by forskolin in cell-attached (c/a) patches, and by PKA in inside-out (i/o) membrane patches. However, phosphorylation by PKA is not sufficient to prevent channel rundown. In contrast, the channel is inhibited by phorbol ester in c/a patches, and PKC decreases channel activity (nPo) in i/o patches. The channel is pH sensitive, and lowering cytosolic pH reduces nPo. Increasing intracellular [Ca2+] ([Ca2+]i) in c/a patches decreases nPo, and this effect is direct since [Ca2+]i inhibits nPo with a Ki of approximately 170 nM in i/o patches. Membrane stretch and hypotonic swelling do not significantly affect channel behavior, but the channel appears to be regulated by the actin cytoskeleton. Finally, the activity of this BLM KATP channel is coupled to transcellular transport. In c/a patches, maneuvers that inhibit turnover of the Na+,K+-ATPase pump reduce nPo, presumably due to a rise in intracellular [ATP], although the associated cell depolarization cannot be ruled out as the possible cause. Conversely, stimulation of transport (and thus pump turnover) leads to increases in nPo, presumably due to a fall in intracellular [ATP]. These results show that the inwardly rectifying KATP channel in the BLM of the proximal tubule is a key element in the feedback system that links cellular metabolism with transport activity. We conclude that coupling of this KATP channel to the activity of the Na+,K+-ATPase pump is a mechanism by which steady state NaCl reabsorption in the proximal tubule may be maintained.

The role of active transport in potassium reabsorption in the proximal convoluted tubule of the anaesthetized rat

1. We have previously assessed the contributions of diffusion and convection to net potassium reabsorption in the rat proximal convoluted tubule (PCT). The present study was conducted to evaluate the role of active transport in convective potassium reabsorption by measuring the transepithelial potassium reflection coefficient (sigmaK) in the presence and absence of cyanide in anaesthetized rats previously prepared for in vivo microperfusion. 2. Osmotic water permeability (Pf) was measured in double-perfused tubules (lumen and peritubular capillaries) by manipulating the applied transepithelial osmotic gradient between -30 and +40 mosmol (kg H2O)(-1) using raffinose added to or subtracted from luminal perfusates. Pf was unaffected by the presence of cyanide when the estimated dissipation of osmotic gradients along each tubule were taken into account. 3. The proportion of K+ (and Na+) convectively transported with water fluxes (i.e. sigmaK) was not affected by cyanide. In the absence of active transport and following correction for any diffusive component, sigmaK was 0.56 +/- 0.13, indicating substantial solvent drag which probably occurs via the paracellular pathway. 4. However, cyanide caused a reduction in net potassium flux over the entire range of fluid fluxes used in double-perfusion experiments. Subsequent single-perfusion experiments (tubule lumen only) using the specific K+-H+-ATPase inhibitor, SCH28080, failed to reveal any direct evidence for a primary active K+ transporting mechanism involved in K+ reabsorption in the PCT.

ATP-sensitive K+ channels in the kidney

ATP-sensitive K+ channels (KATP channels) form a link between the metabolic state of the cell and the permeability of the cell membrane for K+ which, in turn, is a major determinant of cell membrane potential. KATP channels are found in many different cell types. Their regulation by ATP and other nucleotides and their modulation by other cellular factors such as pH and kinase activity varies widely and is fine-tuned for the function that these channels have to fulfill. In most excitable tissues they are closed and open when cell metabolism is impaired; thereby the cell is clamped in the resting state which saves ATP and helps to preserve the structural integrity of the cell. There are, however, notable exceptions from this rule; in pancreatic beta-cells, certain neurons and some vascular beds, these channels are open during the normal functioning of the cell. In the renal tubular system, KATP channels are found in the proximal tubule, the thick ascending limb of Henle's loop and the cortical collecting duct. Under physiological conditions, these channels have a high open probability and play an important role in the reabsorption of electrolytes and solutes as well as in K+ homeostasis. The physiological role of their nucleotide sensitivity is not entirely clear; one consequence is the coupling of channel activity to the activity of the Na-K-ATPase (pump-leak coupling), resulting in coordinated vectorial transport. In ischemia, however, the reduced ATP/ADP ratio would increase the open probability of the KATP channels independently from pump activity; this is particularly dangerous in the proximal tubule, where 60 to 70% of the glomerular ultrafiltrate is reabsorbed. The pharmacology of KATP channels is well developed including the sulphonylureas as standard blockers and the structurally heterogeneous family of channel openers. Blockers and openers, exemplified by glibenclamide and levcromakalim, show a wide spectrum of affinities towards the different types of KATP channels. Recent cloning efforts have solved the mystery about the structure of the channel: the KATP channels in the pancreatic beta-cell and in the principal cell of the renal cortical collecting duct are heteromultimers, composed of an inwardly rectifying K+ channel and sulphonylurea binding subunit(s) with unknown stoichiometry. The proteins making up the KATP channel in these two cell types are different (though homologous), explaining the physiological and pharmacological differences between these channel subtypes.

Cross-talk between ATP-regulated K+ channels and Na+ transport via cellular metabolism in frog skin principal cells

Isolated frog skin epithelium, mounted in an Ussing chamber and bathed in standard NaCl Ringer solution, recycles K+ across the basolateral membrane of principal cells through an inward-rectifier K+ channel (Kir) operating in parallel with a Na+-K+-ATPase pump. Here we report on the metabolic control of the Kir channel using patch clamping, short-circuit current measurement and enzymatic determination of cellular (ATP (ATPi). 2. The constitutively active Kir channel in the basolateral membrane has the characteristics of an ATP-regulated K+ channel and is now classed as a KATP channel. In excised inside-out patches the open probability (Po) of KATP channels was reduced by ATPi with half-maximum inhibition at an ATPi concentration of 50 microM. 3. ATPi measured (under normal Na+ transport conditions) with luciferin-luciferase was 1.50 +/- 0.23 mM (mean +/- S.E.M.; range, 0.4-3.3 mM n = 11). Thus the KATP channel would be expected to be inactive in intact cells if ATPi was the sole regulator of channel activity. KATP channels which were inactivated by 1 mM ATPi in excised patches could be reactivated by addition of 100 microM ADP on the cytosolic side. When added alone, ADP blocks this channel with half-maximal inhibition at [ADPi] > 5 mM. 4. Sulphonylureas inhibit single KATP channels in cell-attached patches as well as the total basolateral K+ current measured in frog skin epithelia perforated with nystatin on the apical side. 5. Na+-K+-ATPase activity is a major determinant of cytosolic ATP. Blocking the pump activity with ouabain produced a time-dependent increase in ATPi and reduced the open probability of KATP channels in cell-attached membranes. 6. We conclude that the ratio of ATP/ADP is an important metabolic coupling factor between the rate of Na+-K+ pumping and K+ recycling.

Effect of insulin on Na+,K(+)-ATPase in rat collecting duct

1. The collecting duct is involved in the whole antinatriuretic effect of insulin, as indicated in vitro by the stimulatory effect of the hormone on ouabain-sensitive 86Rb+ uptake. Since Na+,K(+)-ATPase drives Na+ reabsorption, the contribution of the Na+ pump to the effect of insulin was investigated in rat isolated cortical and outer medullary collecting duct. 2. Insulin enhanced ouabain-sensitive 86Rb+ uptake in the absence, as well as in the presence, of either 5 x 10(-4) M amiloride or 10(-3) M hydrochlorothiazide (HCT). Maximal ouabain-sensitive 86Rb+ uptake, measured in Na(+)-loaded tubules, was also enhanced by insulin. The insulin effect persisted both in the absence of external Na+, when the Na+,K(+)-ATPase operates in a Rb(+)-Rb+ exchange mode, and in tubules depolarized by a high external concentration (20 mM) of Rb+ or by addition of 3 mM Ba2+. 3. Insulin treatment did not alter the intracellular Na and K concentrations, the specific binding of [3H]ouabain measured in intact tubules, or the hydrolytic activity of Na+,K(+)-ATPase measured after permeabilization of the tubule cells. 4. In conclusion, in the rat collecting duct, insulin increased Na+,K(+)-ATPase-mediated cation transport independently of Na+ availability, membrane potential and recruitment of pump units. The effect of insulin was lost after cell permeabilization, suggesting the presence of a cytosolic factor which controls the turnover of Na+,K(+)-ATPase.