Developmental regulation of neuronal KCa channels by TGFbeta 1: transcriptional and posttranscriptional effects mediated by Erk MAP kinase

Blockade of endothelial adenosine receptor 2 A suppresses atherosclerosis in vivo through inhibiting CREB-ALK5-mediated endothelial to mesenchymal transition

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading cause of death worldwide, and morbidity and mortality rates continue to rise. Atherosclerosis constitutes the principal etiology of CVDs. Endothelial injury, inflammation, and dysfunction are the initiating factors of atherosclerosis. Recently, we reported that endothelial adenosine receptor 2 A (ADORA2A), a G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR), plays critical roles in neovascularization disease and cerebrovascular disease. However, the precise role of endothelial ADORA2A in atherosclerosis is still not fully understood. Here, we showed that ADORA2A expression was markedly increased in the aortic endothelium of humans with atherosclerosis or Apoe-/- mice fed a high-cholesterol diet. In vivo studies unraveled that endothelial-specific Adora2a deficiency alleviated endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT) and prevented the formation and instability of atherosclerotic plaque in Apoe-/- mice. Moreover, pharmacologic inhibition of ADORA2A with KW6002 recapitulated the anti-atherogenic phenotypes observed in genetically Adora2a-deficient mice. In cultured human aortic endothelial cells (HAECs), siRNA knockdown of ADORA2A or KW6002 inhibition of ADORA2A decreased EndMT, whereas adenoviral overexpression of ADORA2A induced EndMT. Mechanistically, ADORA2A upregulated ALK5 expression via a cAMP/PKA/CREB axis, leading to TGFβ-Smad2/3 signaling activation, thereby promoting EndMT. In conclusion, these findings, for the first time, demonstrate that blockade of ADORA2A attenuated atherosclerosis via inhibition of EndMT induced by the CREB1-ALK5 axis. This study discloses a new link between endothelial ADORA2A and EndMT and indicates that inhibiting endothelial ADORA2A could be an effective novel strategy for the prevention and treatment of atherosclerotic CVDs.

Peptide Lv Promotes Trafficking and Membrane Insertion of KCa3.1 through the MEK1-ERK and PI3K-Akt Signaling Pathways

Peptide Lv is a small endogenous secretory peptide that is proangiogenic through hyperpolarizing vascular endothelial cells (ECs) by enhancing the current densities of KCa3.1 channels. However, it is unclear how peptide Lv enhances these currents. One way to enhance the current densities of ion channels is to promote its trafficking and insertion into the plasma membrane. We hypothesized that peptide Lv-elicited KCa3.1 augmentation occurs through activating the mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase 1 (MEK1)-extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) and phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)-protein kinase B (Akt) signaling pathways, which are known to mediate ion channel trafficking and membrane insertion in neurons. To test this hypothesis, we employed patch-clamp electrophysiological recordings and cell-surface biotinylation assays on ECs treated with peptide Lv and pharmaceutical inhibitors of ERK and Akt. Blocking ERK or Akt activation diminished peptide Lv-elicited EC hyperpolarization and increase in KCa3.1 current densities. Blocking PI3K or Akt activation decreased the level of plasma membrane-bound, but not the total amount of KCa3.1 protein in ECs. Therefore, the peptide Lv-elicited EC hyperpolarization and KCa3.1 augmentation occurred in part through channel trafficking and insertion mediated by MEK1-ERK and PI3K-Akt activation. These results demonstrate the molecular mechanisms of how peptide Lv promotes EC-mediated angiogenesis.

MicroRNA cerebrospinal fluid profile during the early brain injury period as a biomarker in subarachnoid hemorrhage patients

Introduction

Delayed cerebral ischemia (DCI) is a dreadful complication present in up to 30% of patients with spontaneous subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). Indeed, DCI is one of the main causes of long-term disability in SAH, yet its prediction and prevention are troublesome in poor-grade SAH cases. In this prospective study, we explored the potential role of micro ribonucleic acid (microRNA, abbreviated miRNAs)-small non-coding RNAs involved in clue gene regulation at the post-transcriptional level-as biomarkers of neurological outcomes in SAH patients.

Methods

We analyzed the expression of several miRNAs present in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of SAH patients during the early stage of the disease (third-day post-hemorrhage). NanoString Technologies were used for the characterization of the CSF samples.

Results

We found an overexpression of miRNAs in the acute stage of 57 SAH in comparison with 10 non-SAH controls. Moreover, a differential expression of specific miRNAs was detected according to the severity of clinical onset, but also regarding the development of DCI and the midterm functional outcomes.

Conclusion

These observations reinforce the potential utility of miRNAs as prognostic and diagnostic biomarkers in SAH patients. In addition, the identification of specific miRNAs related to SAH evolution might provide insights into their regulatory functions of pathophysiological pathways, such as the TGF-β inflammatory pathway and blood-brain barrier disruption.

TGF-β/Smad Signalling in Neurogenesis: Implications for Neuropsychiatric Diseases

TGF-β/Smad signalling has been the subject of extensive research due to its role in the cell cycle and carcinogenesis. Modifications to the TGF-β/Smad signalling pathway have been found to produce disparate effects on neurogenesis. We review the current research on canonical and non-canonical TGF-β/Smad signalling pathways and their functions in neurogenesis. We also examine the observed role of neurogenesis in neuropsychiatric disorders and the relationship between TGF-β/Smad signalling and neurogenesis in response to stressors. Overlapping mechanisms of cell proliferation, neurogenesis, and the development of mood disorders in response to stressors suggest that TGF-β/Smad signalling is an important regulator of stress response and is implicated in the behavioural outcomes of mood disorders.

Aβ40 modulates GABA(A) receptor α6 subunit expression and rat cerebellar granule neuron maturation through the ERK/mTOR pathway

In addition to their neurotoxic role in Alzheimer's disease (AD), β-amyloid peptides (Aβs) are also known to play physiological roles. Here, we show that recombinant Aβ40 significantly increased the outward current of the GABA(A) receptor containing (GABA(A)α6) in rat cerebellar granule neurons (CGNs). The Aβ40-mediated increase in GABA(A)α6 current was mediated by an increase in GABA(A)α6 protein expression at the translational rather than the transcriptional level. The exposure of CGNs to Aβ40 markedly induced the phosphorylation of ERK (pERK) and mammalian target of rapamycin (pmTOR). The increase in GABA(A)α6 current and expression was attenuated by specific inhibitors of ERK or mTOR, suggesting that the ERK and mTOR signaling pathways are required for the effect of Aβ40 on GABA(A)α6 current and expression in CGNs. A pharmacological blockade of the p75 neurotrophin receptor (p75(NTR)), but not the insulin or α7-nAChR receptors, abrogated the effect of Aβ40 on GABA(A)α6 protein expression and current. Furthermore, the expression of GABA(A)α6 was lower in CGNs from APP(-/-) mice than in CGNs from wild-type mice. Moreover, the internal granule layer (IGL) in APP(-/-) mice was thinner than the IGL in wild-type mice. The injection of Aβ40 into the cerebellum reversed this effect, and the application of p75(NTR) blocking antibody abolished the effects of Aβ40 on cerebellum morphology in APP(-/-) mice. Our results suggest that low concentrations of Aβ40 play a role in regulating CGN maturation through p75(NTR).

Calcineurin serves in the circadian output pathway to regulate the daily rhythm of L-type voltage-gated calcium channels in the retina

The L-type voltage-gated calcium channels (L-VGCCs) in avian retinal cone photoreceptors are under circadian control, in which the protein expression of the α1 subunits and the current density are greater at night than during the day. Both Ras-mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and Ras-phosphatidylionositol 3 kinase-protein kinase B (PI3K-AKT) signaling pathways are part of the circadian output that regulate the L-VGCC rhythm, while cAMP-dependent signaling is further upstream of Ras to regulate the circadian outputs in photoreceptors. However, there are missing links between cAMP-dependent signaling and Ras in the circadian output regulation of L-VGCCs. In this study, we report that calcineurin, a Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent serine (ser)/threonine (thr) phosphatase, participates in the circadian output pathway to regulate L-VGCCs through modulating both Ras-MAPK and Ras-PI3K-AKT signaling. The activity of calcineurin, but not its protein expression, was under circadian regulation. Application of a calcineurin inhibitor, FK-506 or cyclosporine A, reduced the L-VGCC current density at night with a corresponding decrease in L-VGCCα1D protein expression, but the circadian rhythm of L-VGCCα1D mRNA levels were not affected. Inhibition of calcineurin further reduced the phosphorylation of ERK and AKT (at thr 308) and inhibited the activation of Ras, but inhibitors of MAPK or PI3K signaling did not affect the circadian rhythm of calcineurin activity. However, inhibition of adenylate cyclase significantly dampened the circadian rhythm of calcineurin activity. These results suggest that calcineurin is upstream of MAPK and PI3K-AKT but downstream of cAMP in the circadian regulation of L-VGCCs.

Generating diversity: Mechanisms regulating the differentiation of autonomic neuron phenotypes

Sympathetic and parasympathetic postganglionic neurons innervate a wide range of target tissues. The subpopulation of neurons innervating each target tissue can express unique combinations of neurotransmitters, neuropeptides, ion channels and receptors, which together comprise the chemical phenotype of the neurons. The target-specific chemical phenotype shown by autonomic postganglionic neurons arises during development. In this review, we examine the different mechanisms that generate such a diversity of neuronal phenotypes from the pool of apparently homogenous neural crest progenitor cells that form the sympathetic ganglia. There is evidence that the final chemical phenotype of autonomic postganglionic neurons is generated by both signals at the level of the cell body that trigger cell-autonomous programs, as well as signals from the target tissues they innervate.

MAGI-1 interacts with Slo1 channel proteins and suppresses Slo1 expression on the cell surface

Large conductance Ca(2+)-activated K(+) (BK(Ca)) channels encoded by the Slo1 gene (also known as KCNMA1) are physiologically important in a wide range of cell types and form complexes with a number of other proteins that affect their function. We performed a yeast two-hybrid screen to identify proteins that interact with BK(Ca) channels using a bait construct derived from domains in the extreme COOH-terminus of Slo1. A protein known as membrane-associated guanylate kinase with inverted orientation protein-1 (MAGI-1) was identified in this screen. MAGI-1 is a scaffolding protein that allows formation of complexes between certain transmembrane proteins, actin-binding proteins, and other regulatory proteins. MAGI-1 is expressed in a number of tissues, including podocytes and the brain. The interaction between MAGI-1 and BK(Ca) channels was confirmed by coimmunoprecipitation and glutathione S-transferase pull-down assays in differentiated cells of a podocyte cell line and in human embryonic kidneys (HEK)293T cells transiently coexpressing MAGI-1a and three different COOH-terminal Slo1 variants. Coexpression of MAGI-1 with Slo1 channels in HEK-293T cells results in a significant reduction in the surface expression of Slo1, as assessed by cell-surface biotinylation assays, confocal microscopy, and whole cell recordings. Partial knockdown of endogenous MAGI-1 expression by small interfering RNA (siRNA) in differentiated podocytes increased the surface expression of endogenous Slo1 as assessed by electrophysiology and cell-surface biotinylation assays, whereas overexpression of MAGI-1a reduced steady-state voltage-evoked outward current through podocyte BK(Ca) channels. These data suggest that MAGI-1 plays a role in regulation of surface expression of BK(Ca) channels in the kidney and possibly in other tissues.

THG-1pit moves to nucleus at the onset of cerebellar granule neurons apoptosis

Thg-1pit (Tsc22d4), a murine gene belonging to the TGF-beta1-stimulated clone 22 domain (TSC22D) family, is expressed in developing and adult cerebellar granule neurons and mature Purkinje cells. We have studied THG-1pit function in primary cultures of mouse cerebellar granule neurons maintained in vitro in the presence of a medium containing 25 mM K+ (differentiating condition) or 5 mM K+ (pro-apoptotic condition), and determined the effect of culture medium, TGF-beta1 and IGF-1 on THG-1pit expression and intracellular localization. Thg-1pit encoded a 42 kDa MW protein and other, higher MW and developmentally-regulated forms. Cell exposure to 5 mM K+ elicited early and/or late waves of Thg-1pit transcription, depending on the presence/absence of TGF-beta1, and caused THG-1pit to massively and transiently move from cytoplasm and neurites to the nucleus. THG-1pit nuclear entrance was concomitant to that of AIF, suggesting that THG-1pit is involved in the induction of granule neuron apoptosis.

CNTF-evoked activation of JAK and ERK mediates the functional expression of T-type Ca2+ channels in chicken nodose neurons

Culture of chicken nodose neurons with CNTF but not BDNF causes a significant increase in T-type Ca(2+) channel expression. CNTF-induced channel expression requires 12 h stimulation to reach maximal expression and is not affected by inhibition of protein synthesis, suggesting the involvement of a post-translational mechanism. In this study, we have investigated the biochemical mechanism responsible for the CNTF-dependent stimulation of T-type channel expression in nodose neurons. Stimulation of nodose neurons with CNTF evoked a considerable increase in signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT3) and extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) phosphorylation. CNTF-evoked ERK phosphorylation was transient whereas BDNF-evoked activation of ERK was sustained. Pre-treatment of nodose neurons with the Janus tyrosine kinase (JAK) inhibitor P6 blocked STAT3 and ERK phosphorylation, whereas the ERK inhibitor U0126 prevented ERK activation but not STAT3 phosphorylation. Both P6 and U0126 inhibited the stimulatory effect of CNTF on T-type channel expression. Inhibition of STAT3 activation by the selective blocker stattic has no effect on ERK phosphorylation and T-type channel expression. These results indicate that CNTF-evoked stimulation of T-type Ca(2+) channel expression in chicken nodose neurons requires JAK-dependent ERK signaling. A cardiac tissue extract derived from E20 chicken heart was also effective in promoting T-type Ca(2+) channel expression and STAT3 and ERK phosphorylation. The ability of the heart extract to stimulate JAK/STAT and ERK activation was developmentally regulated. These findings provide further support to the idea that CNTF or a CNTF-like factor mediates normal expression of T-type channels.

Extrinsic regulation of T-type Ca(2+) channel expression in chick nodose ganglion neurons

Functional expression of T-type Ca(2+) channels is developmentally regulated in chick nodose neurons. In this study we have tested the hypothesis that extrinsic factors regulate the expression of T-type Ca(2+) channels in vitro. Voltage-gated Ca(2+) currents were measured using whole-cell patch clamp recordings in E7 nodose neurons cultured under various conditions. Culture of E7 nodose neurons for 48 h with a heart extract induced the expression of T-type Ca(2+) channels without any significant effect on HVA currents. T-type Ca(2+) channel expression was not stimulated by survival promoting factors such as BDNF. The stimulatory effect of heart extract was mediated by a heat-labile, trypsin-sensitive factor. Various hematopoietic cytokines including CNTF and LIF mimic the stimulatory effect of heart extract on T-type Ca(2+) channel expression. The stimulatory effect of heart extract and CNTF requires at least 12 h continuous exposure to reach maximal expression and is not altered by culture of nodose neurons with the protein synthesis inhibitor anisomycin, suggesting that T-type Ca(2+) channel expression is regulated by a posttranslational mechanism. Disruption of the Golgi apparatus with brefeldin-A inhibits the stimulatory effect of heart extract and CNTF suggesting that protein trafficking regulates the functional expression of T-type Ca(2+) channels. Heart extract- or CNTF-evoked stimulation of T-type Ca(2+) channel expression is blocked by the Jak/STAT and MAP kinase blockers, AG490 and U0126, respectively. This study provides new insights into the electrical differentiation of placode-derived sensory neurons and the role of extrinsic factors in regulating the functional expression of Ca(2+) channels.

Alternatively spliced C-terminal domains regulate the surface expression of large conductance calcium-activated potassium channels

The Slo1 gene, also known as KCNMA1, encodes the pore-forming subunits of large-conductance Ca2+-activated K+ (BK(Ca)) channels. Products of this gene are widely expressed in vertebrate tissues, and occur in a large number (>or=20) of alternatively spliced variants that vary in their gating properties, susceptibility to modulation, and trafficking to the plasma membrane. Motifs in the large cytoplasmic C-terminal are especially important in determining the functional properties of BK(Ca) channels. Here we report that chick ciliary ganglion neurons express transcripts and proteins of two Slo1 splice variants that differ at the extreme C-terminal. We refer to these variants as VEDEC and QEDRL (or QEERL for the orthologous mammalian versions), after the five terminal amino acid residues in each isoform. Individual ciliary ganglion neurons preferentially express these variants in different subcellular compartments. Moreover, QEERL channels show markedly higher levels of constitutive expression on the plasma membrane than VEDEC channels in HEK293T and NG108-15 cells. However, growth factor treatment can stimulate surface expression of VEDEC channels to levels comparable to those seen with QEERL. In addition, we show that co-expression of a soluble protein composed of VEDEC C-terminal tail residues markedly increases cell surface expression of full-length VEDEC channels, suggesting that this region binds to proteins that cause retention of the these channels in intracellular stores.

Transforming growth factor-beta2 modulates synaptic efficacy and plasticity and induces phosphorylation of CREB in hippocampal neurons

Transforming growth factor-betas (TGF-betas) are widely expressed and play roles as multifunctional growth factors and regulators of key events in development, disease, and repair. However, it is not known whether TGF-betas affect the plasticity of hippocampal neurons. As a first step to address this issue, we examined whether TGF-beta2 modulated the electrophysiological and biochemical properties of cultured hippocampal neurons. We found that prolonged 24 h treatment with TGF-beta2 induced facilitation of evoked postsynaptic currents (ePSCs). This facilitation was associated with a decrease in short-term synaptic depression of ePSCs and increases in both the amplitude and frequency of spontaneous miniature postsynaptic currents (mPSCs). The long-term changes of ePSCs and mPSCs may be associated with cAMP response element-binding protein (CREB), which has been previously implicated in long-term potentiation. Immunofluorescence techniques and Western blot analysis both revealed that TGF-beta2 enhanced the phosphorylation of CREB. Together, these results suggest that TGF-beta2 may play a role in the cascade of events underlying long-term synaptic facilitation in hippocampus, and that CREB may be an important mediator of these effects.

Beta1-subunits increase surface expression of a large-conductance Ca2+-activated K+ channel isoform

Auxiliary (beta) subunits of large-conductance Ca(2+)-activated K(+) (BK(Ca)) channels regulate the gating properties of the functional channel complex. Here we show that an avian beta1-subunit also stimulates the trafficking of BK(Ca) channels to the plasma membrane in HEK293T cells and in a native population of developing vertebrate neurons. One C-terminal variant of BK(Ca) alpha-subunits, called the VEDEC isoform after its five last residues, is largely retained in intracellular compartments when it is heterologously expressed in HEK293T cells. A closely related splice variant, called QEERL, shows high levels of constitutive trafficking to the plasma membrane. Co-expression of beta1-subunits with the VEDEC isoform resulted in a large increase in surface BK(Ca) channels as assessed by cell-surface biotinylation assays, whole cell recordings of membrane current, and confocal microscopy in HEK293T cells. Co-expression of beta1-subunits slowed the gating kinetics of BK(Ca) channels, as reported previously. Consistent with this, overexpression of beta1-subunits in a native cell type that expresses intracellular VEDEC channels, embryonic day 9 chick ciliary ganglion neurons, resulted in a significant increase in macroscopic Ca(2+)-activated K(+) current. Both the cytoplasmic N- and C-terminal domains of avian beta1 are able to bind directly to VEDEC and QEERL channels. However, overexpression of the N-terminal domain by itself is sufficient to stimulate trafficking of VEDEC channels to the plasma membrane, whereas overexpression of either the cytoplasmic C-terminal domain or the extracellular loop domain did not affect surface expression of VEDEC.

Calcium-activated potassium channel of the tobacco hornworm, Manduca sexta: molecular characterization and expression analysis

Large-conductance calcium- and voltage-gated potassium channels (BK or Slowpoke) serve as dynamic integrators linking electrical signaling and intracellular activity. These channels can mediate many different Ca2+-dependent physiological processes including the regulation of neuronal and neuroendocrine cell excitability and muscle contraction. To gain insights into the function of BK channels in vivo, we isolated a full-length cDNA encoding the alpha subunit of a Slowpoke channel from the tobacco hornworm, Manduca sexta (msslo). Amino acid sequence comparison of the deduced Manduca protein revealed at least 80% identity to the insect Slo channels. The five C-terminal alternative splice regions are conserved, but the cloned cDNA fragments contained some unique combinations of exons E, G and I. Our spatial profile revealed that transcript levels were highest in skeletal muscle when compared with the central nervous system (CNS) and visceral muscle. The temporal profile suggested that msslo expression is regulated developmentally in a tissue- and regional-specific pattern. The levels of msslo transcripts remain relatively constant throughout metamorphosis in the CNS, transiently decline in the heart and are barely detectable in the gut except in adults. A dramatic upregulation of msslo transcript levels occurs in thoracic but not abdominal dorsal longitudinal body wall muscles (DLM), suggesting that the msSlo current plays an important role in the excitation or contractile properties of the phasic flight muscle. Our developmental profile of msslo expression suggests that msSlo currents may contribute to the changes in neural circuits and muscle properties that produce stage-specific functions and behaviors.

TGF-β1-Induced Long-Term Changes in Neuronal Excitability in Aplysia Sensory Neurons Depend on MAPK

Transforming growth factor beta-1 (TGF-β1) plays important roles in the early development of the nervous system and has been implicated in neuronal plasticity in adult organisms. It induces long-term increases in sensory neuron excitability in Aplysia as well as a long-term enhancement of synaptic efficacy at sensorimotor synapses. In addition, TGF-β1 acutely regulates synapsin phosphorylation and reduces synaptic depression induced by low-frequency stimuli. Because of the critical role of MAPK in other forms of long-term plasticity in Aplysia, we examined the role of MAPK in TGF-β1-induced long-term changes in neuronal excitability. Prolonged (6 h) exposure to TGF-β1 induced long-term increases in excitability. We confirmed this finding and now report that exposure to TGF-β1 was sufficient to activate MAPK and increase nuclear levels of active MAPK. Moreover, TGF-β1 enhanced phosphorylation of the Aplysia transcriptional activator cAMP response element binding protein (CREB)1, a homologue to vertebrate CREB. Both the TGF-β1-induced long-term changes in neuronal excitability and the phosphorylation of CREB1 were blocked in the presence of an inhibitor of the MAPK cascade, confirming a role for MAPK in long-term modulation of sensory neuron function.

Regulation of neuronal K(Ca) channels by beta-neuregulin-1 does not require activation of Ras-MEK-extracellular signal-regulated kinase signaling cascades

Endogenous beta-neuregulin-1 is required for the plasma membrane expression of large-conductance (BK-type) Ca2+-activated K+ channels in developing chick ciliary neurons of the chick ciliary ganglion. During normal development, beta-neuregulin-1 acts in concert with transforming growth factor-beta1 to stimulate movement of large-conductance Ca2+-activated K+ channels from intracellular stores into the plasma membrane, although these two growth factors preferentially act on different intracellular pools. We have previously shown that actions of transforming growth factor-beta1 on ciliary neurons require activation of phosphoinositol 3-kinase and Akt, as well as a parallel cascade composed of the small GTPase Ras and a mitogen-activated protein kinase (extracellular signal-regulated kinase). In addition, we have shown that the actions of beta-neuregulin-1 require activation of phosphoinositol 3-kinase and the protein kinase Akt. Here we examine whether beta-neuregulin-1-evoked mobilization of large-conductance Ca2+-activated K+ channels also requires activation of a Ras-extracellular signal-regulated kinase signaling cascade. We observed that application of beta-neuregulin-1 caused a robust and MEK1/2-dependent increase in extracellular signal-regulated kinase diphosphorylation that indicates activation of this signaling cascade in ciliary ganglion neurons, similar to what we have previously observed for transforming growth factor-beta1. However, activation of this cascade is not necessary for beta-neuregulin-1-evoked mobilization because stimulation of macroscopic large-conductance Ca2+-activated K+ channels persisted in cells treated with the MEK1/2 inhibitors PD98059 or U0126, in cells over-expressing dominant-negative forms of extracellular signal-regulated kinase, and in cells treated with the Ras inhibitor FTI-277. These results indicate that the mechanisms that underlie beta-neuregulin-1 and transforming growth factor-beta1 mobilization of large-conductance Ca2+-activated K+ channels are only partly overlapping, possibly because they cause recruitment of spatially distinct signaling complexes.

The p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway negatively regulates Ca2+-activated K+ channel trafficking in developing parasympathetic neurons

The trafficking of large-conductance Ca2+-activated K+ channels (K(Ca)) in chick ciliary ganglion neurons is regulated by growth factors. Here we show that a canonical p38 cascade inhibits K(Ca) trafficking in ciliary ganglion neurons. Two different p38 inhibitors (SB202190 or SB203580) or over-expression of dominant-negative forms of several components of the p38 cascade increased K(Ca) in ciliary neurons. Inhibition of protein synthesis or Golgi processing had no effect on this phenomenon, suggesting that p38 is acting at a distal step of the trafficking pathway. Depolymerization of filamentous actin (F-actin) increased functional expression of K(Ca), whereas stabilization of F-actin inhibited the effect of SB202190 on K(Ca) trafficking. SB202190 also caused an immunochemically detectable increase in K(Ca) on the plasma membrane. Inhibition of p38 decreased the extent of cortical F-actin in ciliary neurons. Macroscopic K(Ca) is suppressed by transforming growth factor (TGF) beta3. Application of TGFbeta3 increased the phosphorylation of p38 in ciliary neurons and increased cortical F-actin. Thus, the p38 signaling cascade endogenously suppresses development of functional K(Ca), in part by stabilizing an F-actin barrier that prevents plasma membrane insertion of functional channel complexes. This cascade also appears to mediate inhibitory effects of TGFbeta3 on the expression of K(Ca).

Growth Factors Mobilize Multiple Pools ofKCaChannels in Developing Parasympathetic Neurons: Role of ADP-Ribosylation Factors and Related Proteins

In developing ciliary ganglion (CG) neurons, movement of functional large-conductance (BK type) Ca2+-activated K+( KCa) channels to the cell surface is stimulated by the endogenous growth factors TGFβ1 and β-neuregulin-1 (NRG1). Here we show that a brief NRG1 treatment (0.5–1.5 h) mobilizes KCachannels in a post-Golgi compartment, but longer treatments (>3.5 h) mobilize KCachannels located in the endoplasmic reticulum or Golgi apparatus. Specifically, the effects of 3.5 h NRG1 treatment were completely blocked by treatments that disrupt Golgi apparatus function. These include inhibition of microtubules, or inhibition of the ADP-ribosylation factor-1 (ARF1) system by brefeldin A, by over-expression of dominant-negative ARF1, or over-expression of an ARF1 GTPase-activating protein that blocks ARF1 cycling between GTP- and GDP-bound states. These treatments had no effect on stimulation of KCaevoked by 1.5 h treatment with NRG1, indicating that short-term responses to NRG1 do not require an intact Golgi apparatus. By contrast, both the acute and sustained effects of NRG1 were inhibited by treatments that block trafficking processes that occur close to the plasma membrane. Thus mobilization of KCawas blocked by treatments than inhibit ADP-ribosylation factor-6 (ARF6) signaling, including overexpression of dominant-negative ARF6, dominant-negative ARNO, or dominant-negative phospholipase D1. TGFβ1, the effects of which on KCaare much slower in onset, is unable to selectively mobilize channels in the post-Golgi pool, and its effects on KCaare completely blocked by inhibition of microtubules, Golgi function and also by plasma membrane ARF6 and phospholipase D1 signaling.

Akt Activation Is Necessary for Growth Factor–Induced Trafficking of Functional KCaChannels in Developing Parasympathetic Neurons

The protein kinase Akt is a crucial regulator of neuronal survival and apoptosis. Here we show that Akt activation is necessary for mobilization of large-conductance KCachannels in ciliary ganglion (CG) neurons evoked by β-neuregulin-1 (NRG1) and transforming growth factor-β1 (TGFβ1). Application of NRG1 to embryonic day 9 (E9) CG neurons increased Akt phosphorylation, as observed previously for TGFβ1. NRG1- and TGFβ1-evoked stimulation of KCais blocked by inhibitors of PI3K by overexpression of a dominant-negative form of Akt, by overexpression of CTMP, an endogenous negative regulator of Akt, and by application of the Akt inhibitor 1L-6-hydroxymethyl-chiro-inositol 2-( R)-2- O-methyl-3- O-octadecylcarbonate (HIMO). Conversely, overexpression of a constitutively-active form of Akt was sufficient by itself to increase mobilization of functional KCachannels. NRG1 and TGFβ1 evoked an Akt-dependent increase in cell-surface SLO α-subunits. These procedures have no effect on voltage-activated Ca2+currents. Thus Akt plays an essential role in the developmental regulation of excitability in CG neurons.

Protein kinase A inhibits intermediate conductance Ca2+-activated K+ channels expressed in Xenopus oocytes

Intermediate-conductance (IK) Ca(2+)-activated K(+) channels are expressed in many different cell types where they perform a variety of functions including cell volume regulation, transepithelial secretion, lymphocyte activation and cell cycle progression. IK channels are thought to be regulated by phosphorylation; however, whether kinases act directly on the channel is unclear. Using IK channels heterologously expressed in Xenopus oocytes, we demonstrate that IK channels are potently inhibited (60%) by the catalytic subunit of protein kinase A (PKA). Inhibition of IK channel current by PKA is abolished by mutation of four phosphorylation residues (S312, T327, S332, and T348) in the putative calmodulin-binding region of the channel. Evidence for direct modulation of the IK channel by PKA was further demonstrated using GST fusion proteins. The major site of phosphorylation was found to be serine 332; however, other residues were also phosphorylated. We conclude that IK channels can be directly regulated by the cAMP second-messenger system. The mechanism appears to involve direct phosphorylation by PKA of a modulatory locus in the cytoplasmic region of the channel, the site at which calmodulin is thought to interact. Modulation of IK channels by protein kinases may be an important mechanism regulating cell function.

Ras is a mediator of TGFbeta1 signaling in developing chick ciliary ganglion neurons

Large-conductance Ca(2+)-activated K(+) channels (K(Ca)) in chick ciliary ganglion neurons are regulated by target-derived TGFbeta1. Here we show that TGFbeta1 stimulation of K(Ca) expression was blocked by the structurally dissimilar Ras protein farnesyl transferase inhibitors manumycin-A and FTI-277. A similar effect was produced in ciliary neurons overexpressing RasN17, a widely used dominant-negative form of Ras. Moreover, TGFbeta1-evoked increases in phosphorylation of SMAD2 were reduced by manumycin-A, suggesting that Ras-dependent transduction cascades activated by TGFbeta1 feed back onto SMAD signaling. Thus, Ras is a mediator of pleiotropic TGFbeta1 signaling in developing neurons.

Target-mediated control of neural differentiation

The development of the nervous system entails the coordination of the spatial and chemical development of both pre- and postsynaptic elements. This coordination is accomplished by signals passing between neurons and the target cells that they innervate. This review focuses on well-characterized examples of target-mediated neuronal differentiation in the central and peripheral nervous systems. These include control of neurogenesis in the leech by male genitalia, presynaptic differentiation induced by postsynaptic molecules expressed by skeletal muscle, postsynaptic adhesion molecules that induce presynaptic differentiation in the central nervous system (CNS), target-mediated control of neurotransmitter phenotype in peripheral neurons, and target-regulated control of neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) and large conductance calcium-activated potassium channels (BK). The detailed understanding of these processes will uncover signals critical for the directed differentiation of stem cells as well as identify future targets for therapies in neural regeneration that promote the reestablishment of functional connections.

Glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor and target-dependent regulation of large-conductance KCa channels in developing chick lumbar motoneurons

The functional expression of large-conductance Ca2+-activated K+ (K(Ca)) channels in lumbar motoneurons (LMNs) of the developing chick embryo is regulated in part by interactions with striated muscle target tissues. Here we show that the functional expression of K(Ca) channels in LMNs developing in vitro can be stimulated by application of a skeletal muscle extract (MEX) or by coculture with hindlimb myotubes. A similar stimulation of K(Ca) channels in vitro can be produced by the trophic factors glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor but not by neurotrophin (NT)-3 or NT-4. The actions of MEX and hindlimb myotubes are blocked by a GDNF-neutralizing antiserum. Moreover, injection of this same antiserum into the embryonic hindlimb reduced the functional expression of K(Ca) channels in vivo to levels seen in LMNs deprived of interactions with the hindlimb. The effects of GDNF on K(Ca) channel expression in LMNs require 24 hr of continuous exposure to reach maximum and are blocked by the translation inhibitor anisomycin, indicating the need for synthesis of new proteins. GDNF actions are also blocked by the farnesyl transferase inhibitor manumycin, suggesting a role for Ras in the actions of GDNF. Finally, the actions of GDNF are inhibited by PP2, an inhibitor of Src family tyrosine kinases, and by LY29003, an inhibitor of phosphatidylinositol 3 kinases, but not by PD98059, an inhibitor of the Erk signaling cascade. None of these treatments alter expression of voltage-activated Ca2+ channels. Thus, the actions of GDNF on LMN K(Ca) channel expression appear to use a transduction pathway similar to that used for regulation of apoptosis.

Developmental regulation of neuronal K(Ca) channels by TGFbeta1: an essential role for PI3 kinase signaling and membrane insertion

TGFbeta1 is a target-derived factor responsible for the developmental expression of large-conductance Ca(2+)-activated K(+) (K(Ca)) channels in ciliary neurons of the chick ciliary ganglion. The acute effects of TGFbeta1 on K(Ca) channels are mediated by posttranslational events and require activation of the MAP kinase Erk. Here we show that TGFbeta1 evokes robust phosphorylation of Akt/PKB, a protein kinase dependent on the products of phosphatidylinositol 3-OH kinase (PI3K). TGFbeta1-evoked stimulation of K(Ca) channels is blocked by the PI3K inhibitors wortmannin and LY294002. These drugs also inhibit TGFbeta1 effects on Akt/PKB phosphorylation but have no effect on TGFbeta1-evoked Erk activation. Application of the MEK1 inhibitor PD98059 blocked TGFbeta1 effects on Erk but had no effect on Akt/PKB phosphorylation. These results indicate that PI3K and Erk represent parallel signaling cascades activated by TGFbeta1 in ciliary neurons. The effects of TGFbeta1 on functional expression of K(Ca) are blocked by the microtubule inhibitors colchicine and nocodazole, by botulinum toxins A and E, and by brefeldin-A, an agent that disrupts the Golgi apparatus. These data indicate that translocation of a membrane protein, possibly Slowpoke (SLO), is required for the acute posttranslational effects of TGFbeta1 on K(Ca) channels. Confocal immunofluorescence studies with three different SLO antisera showed robust expression of SLO in multiple intracellular compartments of embryonic day 9-13 ciliary neurons, including the cell nucleus. These data suggest that TGFbeta1 evokes insertion of SLO channels into the plasma membrane as a result of signaling cascades that entail activation of Erk and PI3K.

TGFbeta2 mediates rapid inhibition of calcium influx in identified cholinergic basal forebrain neurons

Transforming growth factors betas (TGFbetas) are known to have important roles in neuronal survival and can be upregulated in disease. However, unlike many other trophic factors, nothing is known about the rapid neurotransmitter-like actions of TGFbeta in the CNS. We explored this by examining the effects of TGFbeta on calcium influx of large enzymatically dissociated basal forebrain neurons. We show that brief application of TGFbeta2, but not TGFbeta1, to fura-2AM-loaded neurons reversibly and acutely (within seconds) inhibited K(+)-evoked calcium influx. Moreover, using single-cell RT-PCR, we confirmed that the large TGFbeta2-responsive neurons presented a cholinergic phenotype. Investigation of the signaling mechanism underlying TGFbeta2 actions using whole-cell recordings of calcium currents revealed that TGFbeta2-mediated responses were insensitive to the nonhydrolyzable GTP analogue GTPgammaS. However, TGFbeta2-mediated calcium current reductions were prevented by intracellular perfusion of a Smad2/3 peptide antagonist. Together, these results suggest that TGFbeta2 can acutely regulate the excitability of basal forebrain cholinergic neurons through an atypical signaling mechanism.

Transforming growth factor-beta 1 regulates Kir2.3 inward rectifier K+ channels via phospholipase C and protein kinase C-delta in reactive astrocytes from adult rat brain

The multifunctional cytokine, transforming growth factor beta(1) (TGF-beta(1)), exerts complex effects on astrocytes with early signaling events being less well characterized than transcriptional mechanisms. We examined the effect of TGF-beta(1) on the 14-pS Kir2.3 inward rectifier K(+) channel in rat primary cultured reactive astrocytes. Immunofluorescence study showed that cells co-expressed TGF-beta(1) receptors 1 and 2, Kir2.3, and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP). Patch clamp study showed that TGF-beta(1) (0.1-100 ng/ml) caused a rapid (<5 min) depolarization because of dose-dependent down-regulation of Kir2.3 channels, which was mimicked by the protein kinase C (PKC) activator phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (10-500 nm) and which was inhibited by the PKC inhibitor calphostin C (100 nm), by PKC desensitization produced by 3 h of exposure to phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (100 nm), and by the PKC-delta isoform-specific inhibitor rottlerin (50 microm). Immunoblot analysis and confocal imaging showed that TGF-beta(1) caused PKC-delta translocation to membrane, and co-immunoprecipitation experiments showed that TGF-beta(1) enhanced association between Kir2.3 and PKC-delta. Additional electrophysiological experiments showed that Kir2.3 channel down-regulation was blocked by the phospholipase C inhibitors, neomycin (100 microm) and D609 (200 microm). Given the commonality of signaling involving PLC-PKC-delta, we speculate that TGF-beta(1)-evoked depolarization may be an early signaling event related to gene transcription in astrocytes.

Regulation of MAP kinase by the BMP-4/TAK1 pathway in Xenopus ectoderm

Bone morphogenetic protein-4 (BMP-4) induces epidermis and represses neural fate in Xenopus ectoderm. Our previous findings implicate p42 Erk MAP kinase (MAPK) in the response to neural induction. We have examined the effects of BMP-4 on MAPK activity in gastrula ectoderm. Expression of a dominant negative BMP-4 receptor resulted in a 4.5-fold elevation in MAPK activity in midgastrula ectoderm. MAPK activity was reduced in ectoderm expressing a constitutively active BMP-4 receptor, or ectoderm treated with BMP-4 protein in the presence or absence of cycloheximide. Overexpression of TAK1 led to a reduction in MAPK activity in early gastrula ectoderm. The inhibitory effects of TAK1 could be reversed by 1 microM SB 203580, a p38 inhibitor. Treatment of isolated ectoderm with SB 203580 led to expression of otx2, NCAM, and noggin. Western blot analyses indicated that the BMP-4 pathway does not activate JNKs in ectoderm. Our findings indicate that BMP-4 inhibits ectodermal MAPK activity through a TAK1/p38-type pathway. MAPK has been shown to inactivate Smad1. Thus, our results suggest that BMP-4 and MAPK pathways are mutually antagonistic in Xenopus ectoderm, and that interactions between these pathways may govern the choice between epidermal and neural fate.

beta -Neuregulin-1 is required for the in vivo development of functional Ca2+-activated K+ channels in parasympathetic neurons

The development of functional Ca(2+)-activated K(+) channels (K(Ca)) in chick ciliary ganglion (CG) neurons requires interactions with afferent preganglionic nerve terminals. Here we show that the essential preganglionic differentiation factor is an isoform of beta-neuregulin-1. beta-Neuregulin-1 transcripts are expressed in the midbrain preganglionic Edinger-Westphal nucleus at developmental stages that coincide with or precede the normal onset of macroscopic K(Ca) in CG neurons. Injection of beta-neuregulin-1 peptide into the brains of developing embryos evoked a robust stimulation of functional K(Ca) channels at stages before the normal appearance of these channels in CG neurons developing in vivo. Conversely, injection of a neutralizing antiserum specific for beta-neuregulin-1 inhibited the development of K(Ca) channels in CG neurons. Low concentrations of beta-neuregulin-1 evoked a robust increase in whole-cell K(Ca) in CG neurons cocultured with iris target tissues. By contrast, culturing CG neurons with iris cells or low concentrations of beta-neuregulin-1 by themselves was insufficient to stimulate K(Ca). These data suggest that the preganglionic factor required for the development of K(Ca) in ciliary ganglion neurons is an isoform of beta-neuregulin-1, and that this factor acts in concert with target-derived trophic molecules to regulate the differentiation of excitability.

Regulation of MAP kinase by calcium-sensing receptor in bovine parathyroid and CaR-transfected HEK293 cells

Regulation of the extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1 and 2 (ERK1/2) pathway by the extracellular calcium (Ca2+o)-sensing receptor (CaR) was investigated in bovine parathyroid and CaR-transfected human embryonic kidney (HEKCaR) cells. Elevating Ca2+o or adding the selective CaR activator NPS R-467 elicited rapid, dose-dependent phosphorylation of ERK1/2. These phosphorylations were attenuated by pretreatment with pertussis toxin (PTX) or by treatment with the phosphotyrosine kinase (PTK) inhibitors genistein and herbimycin, the phosphatidylinositol-specific phospholipase C (PI-PLC) inhibitor U-73122, or the protein kinase C (PKC) inhibitor GF109203X and were enhanced by the PKC activator phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate. Combined treatment with PTX and inhibitors of both PKC and PTK nearly abolished high Ca2+o-evoked ERK1/2 activation in HEKCaR cells, demonstrating CaR-mediated coupling via both Gq and G(i). High Ca2+o increased serine phosphorylation of the 85-kDa cytosolic phospholipase A2 (cPLA2) in both parathyroid and HEKCaR cells. The selective mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) inhibitor PD98059 abolished high-Ca2+o)-induced ERK1/2 activation and reduced cPLA2 phosphorylation in both cell types, documenting MAPK's role in cPLA2 activation. Thus our data suggest that the CaR activates MAPK through PKC, presumably through Gq/11-mediated activation of PI-PLC, as well as through G(i)- and PTK-dependent pathway(s) in bovine parathyroid and HEKCaR cells and indicate the importance of MAPK in cPLA2 activation.

Developmental expression of retinal cone cGMP-gated channels: evidence for rapid turnover and trophic regulation

The cyclic GMP-gated cationic channels of vertebrate photoreceptors are essential for visual phototransduction. We have examined the developmental regulation of cGMP-gated channels in morphologically identified cones in the chick retina. Expression of cone-type cGMP-gated channel mRNA can be detected at embryonic day 6 (E6), but expression of functional channels, as accessed by patch-clamp recordings, cannot be detected until E8. Plasma membrane channels in embryonic cones have a high turnover rate because inhibition of protein synthesis or disruption of the Golgi apparatus causes an almost complete loss of functional cGMP-gated channels within 12 hr. Different subpopulations of cones begin to express functional channels at different developmental stages, but all cones express channels by E10. Expression of cGMP-gated channels in at least one cone subpopulation appears to require one or more soluble differentiation factors, which are presumably present in the normal microenvironment of the developing retina. Application of chick embryo extract (CEE), a rich source of trophic factors, causes marked stimulation of cGMP-gated channel expression in chick cones at E8, but not at E6. Inhibition of MAP kinase (Erk) signaling using PD98059, or inhibition of PI3 kinase signaling by LY294002, blocked the stimulatory effects of CEE on E8 cones. Several recombinant trophic factors were also tested, but none could mimic the stimulatory effects of CEE on channel expression. In summary, the developmental expression of cGMP-gated cationic channels in embryonic cones appears to be regulated by epigenetic factors. The ability of cones to respond to these epigenetic factors is also developmentally regulated.

BK-Type K(Ca) channels in two parasympathetic cell types: differences in kinetic properties and developmental expression

The intrinsic electrical properties of identified choroid and ciliary neurons of the chick ciliary ganglion were examined by patch-clamp recording methods. These neurons are derived from a common pool of mesencephalic neural crest precursor cells but innervate different target tissues and have markedly different action potential waveforms and intrinsic patterns of repetitive spike discharge. Therefore it is important to determine whether these cell types express different types of plasma membrane ionic channels, and to ascertain the developmental stages at which these cell types begin to diverge. This study has focused on large-conductance Ca(2+)-activated K(+) channels (K(Ca)), which are known to regulate spike waveform and repetitive firing in many cell types. Both ciliary ganglion cell types, identified on the basis of size and somatostatin immunoreactivity, express a robust macroscopic K(Ca) carried by a kinetically homogeneous population of large-conductance (BK-type) K(Ca) channels. However, the kinetic properties of these channels are different in the two cell types. Steady-state fluctuation analyses of macroscopic K(Ca) produced power spectra that could be fitted with a single Lorentzian curve in both cell types. However, the resulting corner frequency was significantly lower in choroid neurons than in ciliary neurons, suggesting that the underlying K(Ca) channels have a longer mean open-time in choroid neurons. Consistent with fluctuation analyses, significantly slower gating of K(Ca) channels in choroid neurons was also observed during macroscopic activation and deactivation at membrane potentials positive to -30 mV. Differences in the kinetic properties of K(Ca) channels could also be observed directly in single-channel recordings from identified embryonic day 13 choroid and ciliary neurons. The mean open-time of large-conductance K(Ca) channels was significantly greater in choroid neurons than in ciliary neurons in excised inside-out patches. The developmental expression of functional K(Ca) channels appears to be regulated differently in the two cell types. Although both cell types acquire functional K(Ca) at the same developmental stages (embryonic days 9-13), functional expression of these channels in ciliary neurons requires target-derived trophic factors. In contrast, expression of functional K(Ca) channels proceeds normally in choroid neurons developing in vitro in the absence of target-derived trophic factors. Consistent with this, extracts of ciliary neuron target tissues (striated muscle of the iris/ciliary body) contain K(Ca) stimulatory activity. However, K(Ca) stimulatory activity cannot be detected in extracts of the smooth muscle targets of choroid neurons.