Sample records for kcl-stimulated 45ca uptake

  1. KCl stimulation increases norepinephrine transporter function in PC12 cells.

    PubMed

    Mandela, Prashant; Ordway, Gregory A

    2006-09-01

    The norepinephrine transporter (NET) plays a pivotal role in terminating noradrenergic signaling and conserving norepinephrine (NE) through the process of re-uptake. Recent evidence suggests a close association between NE release and regulation of NET function. The present study evaluated the relationship between release and uptake, and the cellular mechanisms that govern these processes. KCl stimulation of PC12 cells robustly increased [3H]NE uptake via the NET and simultaneously increased [3H]NE release. KCl-stimulated increases in uptake and release were dependent on Ca2+. Treatment of cells with phorbol-12-myristate-13-acetate (PMA) or okadaic acid decreased [3H]NE uptake but did not block KCl-stimulated increases in [3H]NE uptake. In contrast, PMA increased [3H]NE release and augmented KCl-stimulated release, while okadaic acid had no effects on release. Inhibition of Ca2+-activated signaling cascades with KN93 (a Ca2+ calmodulin-dependent kinase inhibitor), or ML7 and ML9 (myosin light chain kinase inhibitors), reduced [3H]NE uptake and blocked KCl-stimulated increases in uptake. In contrast, KN93, ML7 and ML9 had no effect on KCl-stimulated [3H]NE release. KCl-stimulated increases in [3H]NE uptake were independent of transporter trafficking to the plasma membrane. While increases in both NE release and uptake mediated by KCl stimulation require Ca2+, different intracellular mechanisms mediate these two events.

  2. Ca$sup 45$ UPTAKE BY DOG ERYTHROCYTES SUSPENDED IN SODIUM AND POTASSIUM CHLORIDE SOLUTIONS

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Omachi, A.; Markel, R.P.; Hegarty, H.

    1961-04-01

    The disappearance of Ca/sup 4//sup 5/ from the medium was greater when washed dog erythrocytes were suspended in isotonic KCl rather than in isotonic NaCl. Cells stored in a refrigerator for 24 hr or more took up even greater quantities of Ca/sup 4//sup 5/ when incubated in KCl but cells suspended in NaCl did not show any difference from fresh cells. This result is consistent with the view that competition takes place between Ca and Na ions for binding sites as a consequence of the similarity in ionic radii. Acid-citrate-dextrose and, to a certain extent, heparin appeared to delay themore » increased uptake by stored cells. Addition of glucose, adenosine, or Nembutal to stored blood had no effect. Fresh cells hemolyzed by saponin or by hypotonic media took up no more Ca than unhemolyzed fresh cells. Calcium uptake in KCl was -dependent upon pH, greater amounts being taken up at alkaline pH. In contrast to dog red cells, human and cat erythrocytes did not show differences in uptake in NaCl and in KCl, before or after storage. (auth)« less

  3. Follicle-stimulating hormone receptor-mediated uptake of sup 45 Ca sup 2+ by cultured rat Sertoli cells does not require activation of cholera toxin- or pertussis toxin-sensitive guanine nucleotide binding proteins or adenylate cyclase

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Grasso, P.; Reichert, L.E. Jr.

    1990-08-01

    We have previously reported that FSH stimulates flux of 45Ca2+ into cultured Sertoli cells from immature rats via voltage-sensitive and voltage-independent calcium channels. In the present study, we show that this effect of FSH does not require cholera toxin (CT)- or pertussis toxin (PT)-sensitive guanine nucleotide binding (G) protein or activation of adenylate cyclase (AC). Significant stimulation of 45Ca2+ influx was observed within 1 min, and maximal response (3.2-fold over basal levels) was achieved within 2 min after exposure to FSH. FSH-stimulated elevations in cellular cAMP paralleled increases in 45Ca2+ uptake, suggesting a possible coupling of AC activation to 45Ca2+more » influx. (Bu)2cAMP, however, was not able to enhance 45Ca2+ uptake over basal levels at a final concentration of 1000 microM, although a concentration-related increase in androstenedione conversion to estradiol was evident. Exposure of Sertoli cells to CT (10 ng/ml) consistently stimulated basal levels of androstenedione conversion to estradiol but had no effect on basal levels of 45Ca2+ uptake. Similarly, CT had no effect on FSH-induced 45Ca2+ uptake, but potentiated FSH-stimulated estradiol synthesis. PT (10 ng/ml) augmented basal and FSH-stimulated estradiol secretion without affecting 45Ca2+ influx. The adenosine analog N6-phenylisopropyladenosine, which binds to Gi-coupled adenosine receptors on Sertoli cells, inhibited FSH-stimulated androgen conversion to estradiol in a dose-related (1-1000 nM) manner, but FSH-stimulated 45Ca2+ influx remained unchanged. Our results show that in contrast to FSH-stimulated estradiol synthesis, the flux of 45Ca2+ into Sertoli cells in response to FSH is not mediated either directly or indirectly by CT- or PT-sensitive G protein, nor does it require activation of AC. Our data further suggest that the FSH receptor itself may function as a calcium channel.« less

  4. Comparative effects of vinpocetine and 8-Br-cyclic GMP on the contraction and /sup 45/Ca-fluxes in the rabbit aorta

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Chiu, P.J.; Tetzloff, G.; Ahn, H.S.

    1988-07-01

    Vinpocetine is a highly specific inhibitor of calmodulin-dependent phosphodiesterase (CaM-PDE) with an IC50 of 19 microM and produces a significant accumulation of cyclic GMP but not cyclic AMP in rabbit aorta. In isolated rabbit aortic strips, vinpocetine (0.01 and 0.1 mM) inhibited the contraction and /sup 45/Ca uptake due to both phenylephrine (1 microM) and KCl (40 mM), whereas 8-Br-cyclic GMP (0.1-1mM) selectively impaired phenylephrine-induced responses. Furthermore, the KCl-stimulated /sup 45/Ca efflux in normal Ca2+ buffer, which reflects elevated cytosolic Ca2+, was greatly diminished by vinpocetine but not by 8-Br-cyclic GMP. However, phenylephrine-induced /sup 45/Ca efflux and contraction in Ca2+-freemore » buffer, which reflect Ca2+ release from intracellular sites, were similarly inhibited by both vinpocetine and 8-Br-cyclic GMP. The results suggest that vinpocetine may effect vasodilatation through blockade of the slow channel and selective inhibition of CaM-PDE in the vascular smooth muscle.« less

  5. Mechanism of Aluminum Inhibition of Net 45Ca2+ Uptake by Amaranthus Protoplasts 1

    PubMed Central

    Rengel, Zdenko; Elliott, Daphne C.

    1992-01-01

    Calcium ions serve as a second messenger in signal transduction and metabolic regulation. Effects of Al on calcium homeostasis remain to be elucidated. Short-term net 45Ca2+ uptake by Amaranthus tricolor protoplasts was monitored from uptake media prepared to test the influence of pH, Al, and various inhibitors. Accumulation of 45Ca2+ increased during the first 3 to 6 minutes and then leveled off or declined. Al and Ca2+ channel blockers (verapamil and bepridil) decreased net 45Ca2+ uptake. This decrease was more pronounced when Al and bepridil were both present in uptake media, but Al did not aggravate verapamil-induced reduction of net 45Ca2+ uptake. Erythrosin B and calmidazolium each increased net 45Ca2+ uptake, probably by interfering with Ca2+ efflux. This effect was undetectable in the presence of Al. Mycophenolic acid decreased net 45Ca2+ uptake; guanosine alleviated this effect. Al-induced reduction of net 45Ca2+ uptake was not aggravated by mycophenolic acid. Net 45Ca2+ uptake was generally less at pH 4.5 than at 5.5 for all treatments. It is concluded that Al ions affect net 45Ca2+ uptake by binding to the verapamil-specific channel site that is different from the bepridil-specific one, as well as by interfering with the action of guanosine 5′-triphosphate-binding proteins. PMID:16668688

  6. Ca 45 Uptake in Fracture Callus of Normal and Aminoacetonitrile-Treated Rats

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Bolognani, L.; Ponseti, T. V.

    1962-04-01

    Calcium content and Ca 45 uptake were measured in the fracture callus of normal and AAN-treated rats. It appears that total calcium deposition and Ca 45 uptake are both higher in the young callus, 5 and 10 days after fracture, of the AAN-treated animals. By the 20th day, mineralization of the callus in both groups is similar.

  7. Effect of the dB-c-AMP and forskolin on /sup 45/Ca influx, net Ca uptake and tension on rabbit aortic smooth muscle

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Not Available

    1986-03-01

    The effect of dibutiryl-adenosine-3',5'-cyclic-monophosphate (dB-c-AMP) and forskolin on aortic tension and /sup 45/Ca influx were measured. dB-c-AMP reduced both the rate of force development and the maximal tension achieved in solutions containing various K/sup +/ concentrations. Stimulated /sup 45/Ca influx was also reduced however to a lesser extent than was the tension. Forskolin showed more marked effects of a similar nature. Thus, both these agents which increase intracellular c-AMP caused a rightward shift in the curve expressing force(ordinate) as a function of Ca influx (abscissa). Consequently, they found that dB-c-AMP stimulated more net Ca to be taken up by themore » sarcoplasmic reticulum(SR) at the same influx rate. The conclusion that c-AMP produced these effects by stimulating Ca uptake into the superficial SR was supported by the finding that dB-c-AMP increased the amount of Ca taken up into a caffeine releasable fraction.« less

  8. EFFECT OF CHELATING AGENTS ON UPTAKE OF Ca$sup 45$ AND Sr$sup 85$ BY DEFATTED BONE IN VITRO

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Samachson, J.; Lederer, H.

    The presence of chelating agents in buffered solutions affected the relative uptake of Ca/sup 45/ and Sr/sup 85/ by defatted bone powder. Strong chelating agents, like ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid and cyclohexanediaminetetraacetic acid, decreased the ratio of Ca/sup 45//Sr/sup 85/ uptake considerably in presence of Ca, Ca plus Sr, or Sr carrier. Citrate and adenosinetriphosphate had similar but weaker effects. No effect was shown by glucose, lactate, gluconate, bicarbonate, bicarbonate plus phosphate, glutamate, aspartate, borate, glycerophosphate, lysine or glutathione. Those compeunds which showed no effect had stability constants for Ca of less than 3. Strong chelating agents also decreased the relative amountmore » of Sr/sup 85/ removed from defatted bone powder by exchange. Results indicate that natural chelating agents may be partly responsible for the low Ca/sup 45//Sr/sup 85/ uptake ratio by bone from serum compared with uptake from synthetic inorganic solutions and emphasize the difficulty of removing be partly responsible for the low Ca/sup 45//Sr/sup 85/ uptske ratio by bone from serum compared with uptake from synthetic inorganic solutions and emphasize the difficulty of removing Sr/sup 35/ from bone with chelating agents now available. (auth)« less

  9. Effects of calmodulin and calmodulin inhibitors on Ca uptake by sarcoplasmic reticulum of saponin skinned caudal artery

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Stout, M.A.; Silver, P.J.

    1986-03-05

    Calmodulin (CaM) stimulates plasma membrane transport in many cell types, however, its role in Ca regulation by the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) in smooth muscle has not been established. /sup 45/Ca uptake was studied in saponin skinned strips of rat caudal artery as a function of CaM and the CaM inhibitors, W-7, calmidazolium (CaMZ), and trifluoperazine (TFP). Although caudal artery strips lose approximately 30% of total tissue CaM during skinning, 0.3 - 2 ..mu..M CaM did not increase /sup 45/Ca uptake over a wide range of free Ca concentrations (10/sup -8/ - 10/sup -6/M). Neither W-7 nor CaMZ at concentration ofmore » 10/sup -4/ - 2 x 10/sup -4/M inhibited the MgATP-dependent Ca uptake. Ca uptake was not affected by 50 ..mu..M TFP but a significant inhibition was produced by 500 ..mu..M. Studies of the effects of TFP on /sup 45/Ca efflux indicated that TFP concentrations which inhibited Ca uptake also significantly increased the rate of Ca release. The results suggest that total Ca uptake in caudal artery depends mainly upon MgATP and is not modulated by exogenous CaM or affected by these CaM inhibitors. They cannot preclude that CaM may affect initial velocities or that the CaM inhibitors failed to reach active sites.« less

  10. Effects of calcium antagonists on isolated bovine cerebral arteries: inhibition of constriction and calcium-45 uptake induced by potassium or serotonin

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Wendling, W.W.; Harakal, C.

    1987-05-01

    The purpose of this study was to determine the mechanisms by which organic calcium channel blockers inhibit cerebral vasoconstriction. Isolated bovine middle cerebral arteries were cut into rings to measure contractility or into strips to measure radioactive calcium (/sup 45/Ca) influx and efflux. Calcium channel blockers (10(-5) M verapamil or 3.3 X 10(-7) M nifedipine) and calcium-deficient solutions all produced near-maximal inhibition of both potassium- and serotonin-induced constriction. In calcium-deficient solutions containing potassium or serotonin, verapamil and nifedipine each blocked subsequent calcium-induced constriction in a competitive manner. Potassium and serotonin significantly increased /sup 45/Ca uptake into cerebral artery strips duringmore » 5 minutes of /sup 45/Ca loading; for potassium /sup 45/Ca uptake increased from 62 to 188 nmol/g, and for serotonin from 65 to 102 nmol/g. Verapamil or nifedipine had no effect on basal /sup 45/Ca uptake but significantly blocked the increase in /sup 45/Ca uptake induced by potassium or serotonin. Potassium, and to a lesser extent serotonin, each induced a brief increase in the rate of /sup 45/Ca efflux into calcium-deficient solutions. Verapamil or nifedipine had no effect on basal or potassium-stimulated /sup 45/Ca efflux. The results demonstrate that verapamil and nifedipine block /sup 45/Ca uptake through both potential-operated (potassium) and receptor-operated (serotonin) channels in bovine middle cerebral arteries.« less

  11. Increased transfer of 45Ca into brain and cerebrospinal fluid from plasma during chronic hypocalcemia in rats.

    PubMed

    Murphy, V A; Rapoport, S I

    1988-06-28

    Recent studies have shown regulation of central nervous system [Ca] after chronic hypo- and hypercalcemia. To investigate the mechanism of this regulation, 3-week-old rats were fed diets for 8 weeks that contained low or normal levels of Ca. Plasma [Ca] was 40% less in rats fed the low Ca diet than in animals fed normal diet. Unidirectional transfer coefficients for Ca (KCa) and Cl (KCl) into cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and brain were determined from the 10 min uptake of intravenously injected 45Ca and 36Cl in awake animals. KCa for CSF was 68% greater in low-Ca rats than in normal rats. Likewise, the values of KCa for brain regions with areas adjacent to the ventricles like the hippocampus and pons-medulla were 50% higher than in normal animals. On the other hand, KCas for parietal cortex, a brain region distant from the choroid plexus and not expected to be influenced by Ca entry into CSF, were similar between the groups. Comparison of the regional ratios of KCa/KCl revealed that a selective increase of Ca transport occurred into CSF and all brain regions except the parietal cortex in Ca-deficient rats. The results suggest that Ca homeostasis of CSF and brain [Ca] during chronic hypocalcemia is due to increased transfer of Ca from blood to brain, and that the regulation occurs via the CSF, possibly at the choroid plexus, but not via the cerebral capillaries.

  12. Calcium-independent phospholipase A2 participates in KCl-induced calcium sensitization of vascular smooth muscle.

    PubMed

    Ratz, Paul H; Miner, Amy S; Barbour, Suzanne E

    2009-07-01

    In vascular smooth muscle, KCl not only elevates intracellular free Ca(2+) ([Ca(2+)](i)), myosin light chain kinase activity and tension (T), but also can inhibit myosin light chain phosphatase activity by activation of rhoA kinase (ROCK), resulting in Ca(2+) sensitization (increased T/[Ca(2+)](i) ratio). Precisely how KCl causes ROCK-dependent Ca(2+) sensitization remains to be determined. Using Fura-2-loaded isometric rings of rabbit artery, we found that the Ca(2+)-independent phospholipase A(2) (iPLA(2)) inhibitor, bromoenol lactone (BEL), reduced the KCl-induced tonic but not early phasic phase of T and potentiated [Ca(2+)](i), reducing Ca(2+) sensitization. The PKC inhibitor, GF-109203X (> or =3 microM) and the pseudo-substrate inhibitor of PKCzeta produced a response similar to BEL. BEL reduced basal and KCl-stimulated myosin phosphatase phosphorylation. Whereas BEL and H-1152 produced strong inhibition of KCl-induced tonic T (approximately 50%), H-1152 did not induce additional inhibition of tissues already inhibited by BEL, suggesting that iPLA(2) links KCl stimulation with ROCK activation. The cPLA(2) inhibitor, pyrrolidine-1, inhibited KCl-induced tonic increases in [Ca(2+)](i) but not T, whereas the inhibitor of 20-HETE production, HET0016, acted like the ROCK inhibitor H-1152 by causing Ca(2+) desensitization. These data support a model in which iPLA(2) activity regulates Ca(2+) sensitivity.

  13. Retinoic acid stimulation of human dermal fibroblast proliferation is dependent on suboptimal extracellular Ca2+ concentration.

    PubMed Central

    Varani, J.; Shayevitz, J.; Perry, D.; Mitra, R. S.; Nickoloff, B. J.; Voorhees, J. J.

    1990-01-01

    Human dermal fibroblasts failed to proliferate when cultured in medium containing 0.15 mmol/l (millimolar) Ca2+ (keratinocyte growth medium [KGM]) but did when the external Ca2+ concentration was raised to 1.4 mmol/l. All-trans retinoic acid (retinoic acid) stimulated proliferation in KGM but did not further stimulate growth in Ca2(+)-supplemented KGM. The ability of retinoic acid to stimulate proliferation was inhibited in KGM prepared without Ca2+ or prepared with 0.03 mmol/l Ca2+ and in KGM treated with 1 mmol/l ethylene-glycol-bis-(beta-aminoethyl ether)N,N'-tetra acetic acid. Using 45Ca2+ to measure Ca2+ influx and efflux, it was found that retinoic acid minimally increased Ca2+ uptake into fibroblasts. In contrast, retinoic acid treatment of fibroblasts that had been pre-equilibrated for 1 day with 45Ca2+ inhibited release of intracellular Ca2+ into the extracellular fluid. Retinoic acid also stimulated 35S-methionine incorporation into trichloroacetic acid-precipitable material but in contrast to its effect on proliferation, stimulation of 35S-methionine incorporation occurred in both high-Ca2+ and low-Ca2+ medium. These data indicate that retinoic acid stimulation of proliferation, but not protein synthesis, is dependent on the concentration of Ca2+ in the extracellular environment. PMID:2356860

  14. Alteration in mitochondrial Ca(2+) uptake disrupts insulin signaling in hypertrophic cardiomyocytes.

    PubMed

    Gutiérrez, Tomás; Parra, Valentina; Troncoso, Rodrigo; Pennanen, Christian; Contreras-Ferrat, Ariel; Vasquez-Trincado, César; Morales, Pablo E; Lopez-Crisosto, Camila; Sotomayor-Flores, Cristian; Chiong, Mario; Rothermel, Beverly A; Lavandero, Sergio

    2014-11-07

    Cardiac hypertrophy is characterized by alterations in both cardiac bioenergetics and insulin sensitivity. Insulin promotes glucose uptake by cardiomyocytes and its use as a substrate for glycolysis and mitochondrial oxidation in order to maintain the high cardiac energy demands. Insulin stimulates Ca(2+) release from the endoplasmic reticulum, however, how this translates to changes in mitochondrial metabolism in either healthy or hypertrophic cardiomyocytes is not fully understood. In the present study we investigated insulin-dependent mitochondrial Ca(2+) signaling in normal and norepinephrine or insulin like growth factor-1-induced hypertrophic cardiomyocytes. Using mitochondrion-selective Ca(2+)-fluorescent probes we showed that insulin increases mitochondrial Ca(2+) levels. This signal was inhibited by the pharmacological blockade of either the inositol 1,4,5-triphosphate receptor or the mitochondrial Ca(2+) uniporter, as well as by siRNA-dependent mitochondrial Ca(2+) uniporter knockdown. Norepinephrine-stimulated cardiomyocytes showed a significant decrease in endoplasmic reticulum-mitochondrial contacts compared to either control or insulin like growth factor-1-stimulated cells. This resulted in a reduction in mitochondrial Ca(2+) uptake, Akt activation, glucose uptake and oxygen consumption in response to insulin. Blocking mitochondrial Ca(2+) uptake was sufficient to mimic the effect of norepinephrine-induced cardiomyocyte hypertrophy on insulin signaling. Mitochondrial Ca(2+) uptake is a key event in insulin signaling and metabolism in cardiomyocytes.

  15. Synthetic peptides corresponding to human follicle-stimulating hormone (hFSH)-beta-(1-15) and hFSH-beta-(51-65) induce uptake of 45Ca++ by liposomes: evidence for calcium-conducting transmembrane channel formation

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Grasso, P.; Santa-Coloma, T.A.; Reichert, L.E. Jr.

    1991-06-01

    We have previously described FSH receptor-mediated influx of 45Ca++ in cultured Sertoli cells from immature rats and receptor-enriched proteoliposomes via activation of voltage-sensitive and voltage-independent calcium channels. We have further shown that this effect of FSH does not require cholera toxin- or pertussis toxin-sensitive guanine nucleotide binding protein or activation of adenylate cyclase. In the present study, we have identified regions of human FSH-beta-subunit which appear to be involved in mediating calcium influx. We screened 11 overlapping peptide amides representing the entire primary structure of hFSH-beta-subunit for their effects on 45Ca++ flux in FSH receptor-enriched proteoliposomes. hFSH-beta-(1-15) and hFSH-beta-(51-65) inducedmore » uptake of 45Ca++ in a concentration-related manner. This effect of hFSH-beta-(1-15) and hFSH-beta-(51-65) was also observed in liposomes lacking incorporated FSH receptor. Reducing membrane fluidity by incubating liposomes (containing no receptor) with hFSH-beta-(1-15) or hFSH-beta-(51-65) at temperatures lower than the transition temperatures of their constituent phospholipids resulted in no significant (P greater than 0.05) difference in 45Ca++ uptake. The effectiveness of the calcium ionophore A23187, however, was abolished. Ruthenium red, a voltage-independent calcium channel antagonist, was able to completely block uptake of 45Ca++ induced by hFSH-beta-(1-15) and hFSH-beta-(51-65) whereas nifedipine, a calcium channel blocker specific for L-type voltage-sensitive calcium channels, was without effect. These results suggest that in addition to its effect on voltage-sensitive calcium channel activity, interaction of FSH with its receptor may induce formation of transmembrane aqueous channels which also facilitate influx of extracellular calcium.« less

  16. [Effects of hypoxic acclimatization on myocardial sarcoplasmic reticulum ATPase and 45Ca2+ uptake in rats].

    PubMed

    Long, Chao-liang; Zhang, Yan-fang; Yin, Zhao-yun; Wang, Hai

    2005-08-01

    To study the effect of acute hypoxia and hypoxic acclimatization on myocardial function of rats. Eighteen male Wistar rats were randomly divided into three groups: normoxic control, acute hypoxia and intermittent hypoxic acclimatization group (n=6). After being exposed to hypoxia (8000 m) for 4 h before and after intermittent hypoxic acclimatization (3000 m and 5000 m, 14 d respectively, 4 h/d), the rats were decapitated and then myocardial sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) were derived from cardiac muscles. Activities of Na+, K(+)-ATPase, Ca2+, Mg2(+)-ATPase in SR, phosphorylation of phospholamban (PLB) and the ability of 45Ca2+ uptake in SR were observed in all these three groups. 1) Hypoxia had no effects on the activity of Na+, K(+)-ATPase in rats myocardial SR of rats. 2) Compared with normoxic control rats, the activity of Ca2+, Mg2(+)-ATPase in myocardial SR of rats after acute hypoxia was reduced significantly (P<0.01). After intermittent hypoxic acclimatization, its activity increased significantly as compared with that of acute hypoxic rats (P<0.01). 3) The phosphorylation of PLB in acute hypoxic rats was reduced significantly compared with normoxic control rats. After intermittent hypoxic acclimatization, its phosphorylation was increased significantly compared with that of acute hypoxic rats. It suggests that hypoxic acclimatization could alleviate the inhibition of calcium pump. 4) The ability of 45Ca2+ uptake of SR in acute hypoxic rats was decreased significantly. After hypoxic acclimatization, its ability was strengthened significantly. These results suggest that the increased function of myocardial SR calcium pump, the strengthened phosphorylation of PLB to alleviate the inhibition of calcium pump and the increased function of Ca2+ transport in SR are the mechanisms of hypoxic acclimatization protecting cardiac functions from injury induced by severe hypoxia.

  17. Chronic ethanol administration inhibits calmodulin-dependent Ca++ uptake in synaptosomal membranes.

    PubMed

    Ross, D H

    1986-06-01

    Chronic ethanol administration inhibits ATP-dependent Ca++ uptake in a preparation of synaptic membranes prepared from mice following 1, 4 and 7 days of ethanol exposure in a liquid diet. Addition of calmodulin (2.5 micrograms) to membranes from mice receiving the control diet produced a slight stimulation of ATP dependent Ca++ uptake. Membranes from ETOH treated mice exhibited reduced capacity to take up Ca++ in ATP-dependent fashion. When calmodulin was added to membranes isolated from mice receiving ETOH on Days 1, 4 and 7 ATP-dependent Ca++ uptake was significantly stimulated (p less than 0.01) compared to (1) ETOH treated membranes in absence of calmodulin, and (2) control membranes. Behavioral tolerance as estimated by bar holding technique was found to be 25, 65 and 91 percent complete for Days 1, 4 and 7 respectively. These studies demonstrate that continued exposure of mice to ethanol via consumption of an ethanol containing liquid diet inhibits one of the mechanisms involving the cytosolic buffering of intracellular Ca++ in nerve terminals. This biochemical effect seen in parallel with the development of tolerance to ethanol impairment of bar holding suggests that increased cytosolic Ca++ may aid in central nervous system adaptation to ethanol.

  18. Acetylglyceryl ether phosphorylcholine (AGEPC; platelet-activating factor)-induced stimulation of rabbit platelets: correlation between phosphatidic acid level, 45Ca2+ uptake, and (3H)serotonin secretion

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Shukla, S.D.; Hanahan, D.J.

    1984-08-01

    When 32P-labeled rabbits platelet were incubated with 5 X 10(-10) M 1-O-alkyl-2-acetyl-sn-glyceryl-3-phosphorylcholine (AGEPC), either in the presence or absence (0.1 mM EGTA) of added Ca2+, there was a three- to five-fold increase in the (32P)phosphatidic acid (PA) pool within 15 to 20 s. This event was followed by a gradual decrease in the (32P)PA level to near basal level in 5 min. AGEPC effected this change in (32P)PA in a characteristic dose- and time-dependent manner. Polar head group analogs of AGEPC, such as AGEDME and AGEMME, also effected an increase in PA labeling at levels comparable to those previously reportedmore » for their activity toward rabbit platelets. Other analogs, i.e., lysoGEPC and the enantiomer, sn-1-AGEPC, which are inactive toward rabbit platelets, also showed no effect on the level of (32P)PA. The finding that the PA level in rabbit platelets could be manipulated by the addition of AGEPC, without any added Ca2+, provided an excellent model system for establishing a correlation between the uptake of Ca2+, serotonin release, and PA level. Thus, PA must be regarded as a sensitive indicator of a reaction mechanism important to the platelet response to AGEPC, and could be the focal point in promoting calcium uptake during the stimulation process.« less

  19. Differential blockade of agonist- and depolarization-induced sup 45 Ca2+ influx in smooth muscle cells

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Wallnoefer, A.C.; Cauvin, C.; Lategan, T.W.

    1989-10-01

    ATP stimulated {sup 45}Ca2+ influx in rat aortic smooth muscle cells in a concentration-dependent manner (EC50 = 3.6 +/- 0.5 X 10(-7) M). ADP and GTP were less effective than ATP in stimulating {sup 45}Ca2+ influx; AMP was weakly active and the adenosine agonist 5'-(N-ethyl-carboxamido)-adenosine (NECA) had no effect. ATP gamma S was about equieffective with ATP, whereas alpha,beta-methylene-ATP (APCPP) did not induce {sup 45}Ca2+ influx. Stimulation of {sup 45}Ca2+ influx by ATP was not abolished by the dihydropyridine Ca2+ channel antagonist darodipine (PY 108-068), which completely blocked depolarization-induced {sup 45}Ca2+ influx. Inorganic cations (La3+, Cd2+, Co2+, Ni2+, Mn2+, andmore » Mg2+) were able to inhibit both agonist- and depolarization-induced {sup 45}Ca2+ influx. Cd2+, however, was approximately 20 times more selective in blocking K+-stimulated than agonist-stimulated {sup 45}Ca2+ influx. These data indicate that ATP-stimulated Ca2+ influx in rat aortic smooth muscle cells is resistant to darodipine but is reduced by La3+, Cd2+, and other inorganic blockers of Ca2+ channels.« less

  20. Environmental and cortisol-mediated control of Ca(2+) uptake in tilapia (Oreochromis mossambicus).

    PubMed

    Lin, Chia-Hao; Kuan, Wei-Chun; Liao, Bo-Kai; Deng, Ang-Ni; Tseng, Deng-Yu; Hwang, Pung-Pung

    2016-04-01

    Ca(2+) is a vital element for many physiological processes in vertebrates, including teleosts, which live in aquatic environments and acquire Ca(2+) from their surroundings. Ionocytes within the adult gills or larval skin are critical sites for transcellular Ca(2+) uptake in teleosts. The ionocytes of zebrafish were found to contain transcellular Ca(2+) transporters, epithelial Ca(2+) channel (ECaC), plasma membrane Ca(2+)-ATPase 2 (PMCA2), and Na(+)/Ca(2+) exchanger 1b (NCX1b), providing information about the molecular mechanism of transcellular Ca(2+) transports mediated by ionocytes in fish. However, more evidence is required to establish whether or not a similar mechanism of transcellular Ca(2+) transport also exists in others teleosts. In the present study, ecac, pmca2, and ncx1 were found to be expressed in the branchial ionocytes of tilapia, thereby providing further support for the mechanism of transcellular Ca(2+) transport through ionocytes previously proposed for zebrafish. In addition, we also reveal that low Ca(2+) water treatment of tilapia stimulates Ca(2+) uptake and expression of ecac and cyp11b (the latter encodes a cortisol-synthesis enzyme). Treatment of tilapia with exogenous cortisol (20 mg/l) enhanced both Ca(2+) influx and ecac expression. Therefore, increased cyp11b expression is suggested to enhance Ca(2+) uptake capacity in tilapia exposed to low Ca(2+) water. Furthermore, the application of cortisol receptor antagonists revealed that cortisol may regulate Ca(2+) uptake through glucocorticoid and/or mineralocorticoid receptor (GR and/or MR) in tilapia. Taken together, the data suggest that cortisol may activate GR and/or MR to execute its hypercalcemic action by stimulating ecac expression in tilapia.

  1. IP/sub 3/ stimulates CA/sup + +/ efflux from fusogenic carrot protoplasts

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Rincon, M.; Boss, W.F.

    1986-04-01

    Polyphosphoinositide breakdown plays an important role in signal transduction in animal cells (Berridge and Irvine, 1984, Nature, 312:315). Upon stimulation, phospholipase C hydrolyzes phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate to inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP/sub 3/) and diacylglycerol both of which act as cellular second messengers. IP/sub 3/ mobilizes Ca/sup + +/ from internal stores, hence the cytosolic free Ca/sup + +/ concentration increases and those physiological activities regulated by Ca/sup + +/ are stimulated. To test if plant cells also responded to IP/sub 3/, Ca/sup + +/ efflux studies were done with fusogenic carrot protoplasts released in EGTA. The protoplasts were preloaded with /sup 45/Ca/supmore » + +/ placed in a Ca/sup + +/-free medium, and efflux determined as /sup 45/Ca/sup + +/ loss from the protoplasts. IP/sub 3/ (10-20..mu..M) caused enhanced /sup 45/Ca/sup + +/ efflux and the response was sustained for at least 15 min. In plants, as in animals, the observed IP/sub 3/-enhanced /sup 45/Ca/sup + +/ efflux suggested that IP/sub 3/ released Ca/sup + +/ from internal stores, and the increased free cytosolic Ca/sup + +/ activated Ca/sup + +/ pumping mechanisms which restored the Ca/sup + +/ concentration in the cytosol to the normal level.« less

  2. The deformation stimulated luminescence in KCl, KBr and KI crystals

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Shunkeyev, K.; Sergeyev, D.; Drozdowski, W.; Brylev, K.; Myasnikova, L.; Barmina, A.; Zhanturina, N.; Sagimbaeva, Sh; Aimaganbetova, Z.

    2017-05-01

    Currently, strengthening of the intensity of luminescence in alkali halide crystals (AHC) at lattice symmetry lowering is discussed as a promising direction for the development of scintillation detectors [1-3]. In this regard, for the study of anion excitons and radiation defects in the AHC anion sublattice at deformation, the crystals with the same sizes of cations and different sizes of anions were chosen. In the X-ray spectra of KCl at 10 K, the luminescence at 3.88 eV; 3.05 eV and 2.3 eV is clearly visible. The luminescence at 3.05 eV corresponds to the tunneling recharge [F*, H]. Luminescence at 3.88 eV is quenched in the region of thermal destruction of F‧-centers and characterizes tunneling recharge of F‧, VK-centers. In KCl at 90 K, the luminescence of self-trapped excitons (STE) is completely absent. In KBr at deformation not only STE luminescence, but also deformation stimulated luminescence at 3.58 eV were recorded, the last one corresponds to tunneling recharge of F‧, VK-centers. In KI crystal at 10 K and 90 K at deformation, only STE luminescence is enhanced. There are no deformation luminescence bands in KI compares with KBr and KCl crystals.

  3. Adrenergic-agonist-induced Ca2+ fluxes in rat parotid cells are not Na+-dependent.

    PubMed Central

    Helman, J; Roth, G S; Baum, B J

    1985-01-01

    We investigated the hypothesis that extracellular Na+ is required for the rapid mobilization of Ca2+ by rat parotid cells after adrenergic stimulation. When Na+ salts in the media were osmotically replaced with either choline chloride (+atropine) or sucrose, efflux of 45Ca2+ from preloaded cells, caused by 10 microM-(-)-adrenaline, was unchanged. Similarly adrenaline stimulated 45Ca2+ uptake into cells under nonsteady-state conditions in the presence or absence of Na+. Monensin, a Na+ ionophore, was able to elicit a modest increase in 45Ca2+ efflux, compared with controls. Studies of net 45Ca2+ flux, performed under near-steady-state conditions, showed that adrenaline caused net 45Ca2+ accumulation, whereas monensin caused net 45Ca2+ release. The effect of monensin required the presence of Na+ in the incubation medium. Both 1 mM-LaCl3 and 0.1 mM-D-600 prevented adrenaline-stimulated 45Ca2+ uptake into cells, but had no effect on monensin-induced changes. We conclude that (1) the rapid mobilization of Ca2+ by adrenergic agonists seen in rat parotid cells does not require a Na+out greater than Na+in gradient and (2) the nature of the monensin effect is quite different from the adrenergic-agonist-induced response. PMID:2413840

  4. The effects of lubrol WX on brain membrane Ca2+/Mg2+ ATPase and ATP-dependent Ca2+ uptake activity following acute and chronic ethanol.

    PubMed

    Ross, D H; Garrett, K M; Cardenas, H L

    1985-02-01

    Acute administration of ethanol (2.5 gm/kg, i.p.) to rats inhibits the cytosolic buffering of Ca2+ in nerve terminals. Ca2+ ATPase and ATP-dependent Ca2+ uptake are both inhibited 30 min after a single dose of ethanol. Chronic ethanol administration (6%, 14 days) did not inhibit Ca2+ ATPase but significantly stimulated ATP-dependent Ca2+ uptake. Lubrol WX treatment of acute ethanolic membranes reverses the inhibition of Ca2+ ATPase seen following ethanol. Lubrol WX treatment of chronic ethanolic membranes prevents the increase in ATP-dependent Ca2+ uptake seen in ethanolic membranes. Both acute and chronic ethanol-induced changes in Ca2+ transport within nerve terminals may involve lipid-dependent parameters of the membrane which may underlie neuronal adaptation.

  5. Calmodulin stimulation of calcium transport in carrot microsomal vesicles. [Daucus carota

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Pierce, W.S.; Sze, H.

    1987-04-01

    ATP-dependent /sup 45/Ca/sup 2 +/ uptake into microsomal vesicles isolated from cultured carrot cells (Daucus carota Danvers) was stimulated 2-3 fold by 5 ug/ml calmodulin (CaM). Microsomal vesicles separated with a linear sucrose gradient showed two peaks with CaM-stimulated Ca/sup 2 +/ uptake activities. One peak (at 1.12 g/cc) comigrated with the activity of the antimycin A-insensitive NADH-dependent cytochrome c reductase. This transport activity was enhanced 10-20 fold by 10 mM oxalate and appeared to be associates with vesicles derived primarily from the ER. The other peak of CaM-stimulated Ca/sup 2 +/ uptake (at 1.17 g/cc) was not affected bymore » oxalate. These vesicles are probably derived from the plasma membrane. Preliminary experiments with the low-density vesicles (ER) vesicles, indicate that inositol-1,4,5-trisphosphate caused a transient reduction in intravesicular Ca/sup 2 +/. These results are consistent with the ER being an important site of intracellular Ca/sup 2 +/ regulation.« less

  6. Effects of Partial Substitutions of NaCl with KCl, CaSO4 and MgSO4 on the Quality and Sensorial Properties of Pork Patties.

    PubMed

    Davaatseren, Munkhtugs; Chun, Ji-Yeon; Cho, Hyung-Yong; Min, Sang-Gi; Choi, Mi-Jung

    2014-01-01

    This study investigated the effects of NaCl replacers (KCl, CaSO4, and MgSO4) on the quality and sensorial properties of pork patty. In the characteristics of spray-dried salt particles, KCl showed the largest particle size with low viscosity in solution. Meanwhile CaSO4 treatment resulted in the smallest particle size and the highest viscosity (p<0.05). In comparison of the qualities of pork patties manufactured by varying level of Na replacers, MgSO4 treatment exhibited low cooking loss comparing to control (p<0.05). Textural properties of KCl and MgSO4 treatments showed similar pattern, i.e., low level of the replacers caused harder and less adhesive texture than those of control (p<0.05), whereas the hardness of these products was not different with control when the replacers were added more than 1.0%. The addition of CaSO4 also manifested harder and less adhesive than control (p<0.05), but the textural properties of CaSO4 treatment was not affected by level of Ca-salt. Eventually, sensorial properties indicated that KCl and CaSO4 influenced negative effects on pork patties. In contrast, MgSO4 showed better sensorial properties in juiciness intensity, tenderness intensity as well as overall acceptability than control, reflecting that MgSO4 was an effective Na-replacer in meat product formulation.

  7. Calbindin-D(28k) controls [Ca(2+)](i) and insulin release. Evidence obtained from calbindin-d(28k) knockout mice and beta cell lines

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Sooy, K.; Schermerhorn, T.; Noda, M.; Surana, M.; Rhoten, W. B.; Meyer, M.; Fleischer, N.; Sharp, G. W.; Christakos, S.

    1999-01-01

    The role of the calcium-binding protein, calbindin-D(28k) in potassium/depolarization-stimulated increases in the cytosolic free Ca(2+) concentration ([Ca(2+)](i)) and insulin release was investigated in pancreatic islets from calbindin-D(28k) nullmutant mice (knockouts; KO) or wild type mice and beta cell lines stably transfected and overexpressing calbindin. Using single islets from KO mice and stimulation with 45 mM KCl, the peak of [Ca(2+)](i) was 3.5-fold greater in islets from KO mice compared with wild type islets (p < 0.01) and [Ca(2+)](i) remained higher during the plateau phase. In addition to the increase in [Ca(2+)](i) in response to KCl there was also a significant increase in insulin release in islets isolated from KO mice. Evidence for modulation by calbindin of [Ca(2+)](i) and insulin release was also noted using beta cell lines. Rat calbindin was stably expressed in betaTC-3 and betaHC-13 cells. In response to depolarizing concentrations of K(+), insulin release was decreased by 45-47% in calbindin expressing betaTC cells and was decreased by 70-80% in calbindin expressing betaHC cells compared with insulin release from vector transfected betaTC or betaHC cells (p < 0.01). In addition, the K(+)-stimulated intracellular calcium peak was markedly inhibited in calbindin expressing betaHC cells compared with vector transfected cells (225 nM versus 1,100 nM, respectively). Buffering of the depolarization-induced rise in [Ca(2+)](i) was also observed in calbindin expressing betaTC cells. In summary, our findings, using both isolated islets from calbindin-D(28k) KO mice and beta cell lines, establish a role for calbindin in the modulation of depolarization-stimulated insulin release and suggest that calbindin can control the rate of insulin release via regulation of [Ca(2+)](i).

  8. Measuring coral calcification under ocean acidification: methodological considerations for the 45Ca-uptake and total alkalinity anomaly technique

    PubMed Central

    Krueger, Thomas; Fine, Maoz

    2017-01-01

    As the oceans become less alkaline due to rising CO2 levels, deleterious consequences are expected for calcifying corals. Predicting how coral calcification will be affected by on-going ocean acidification (OA) requires an accurate assessment of CaCO3 deposition and an understanding of the relative importance that decreasing calcification and/or increasing dissolution play for the overall calcification budget of individual corals. Here, we assessed the compatibility of the 45Ca-uptake and total alkalinity (TA) anomaly techniques as measures of gross and net calcification (GC, NC), respectively, to determine coral calcification at pHT 8.1 and 7.5. Considering the differing buffering capacity of seawater at both pH values, we were also interested in how strongly coral calcification alters the seawater carbonate chemistry under prolonged incubation in sealed chambers, potentially interfering with physiological functioning. Our data indicate that NC estimates by TA are erroneously ∼5% and ∼21% higher than GC estimates from 45Ca for ambient and reduced pH, respectively. Considering also previous data, we show that the consistent discrepancy between both techniques across studies is not constant, but largely depends on the absolute value of CaCO3 deposition. Deriving rates of coral dissolution from the difference between NC and GC was not possible and we advocate a more direct approach for the future by simultaneously measuring skeletal calcium influx and efflux. Substantial changes in carbonate system parameters for incubation times beyond two hours in our experiment demonstrate the necessity to test and optimize experimental incubation setups when measuring coral calcification in closed systems, especially under OA conditions. PMID:28879064

  9. Phorbol ester stimulates calcium sequestration in saponized human platelets

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Yoshida, K.; Nachmias, V.T.

    1987-11-25

    When platelets are activated by agonists, calcium (Ca2+) is released from an intracellular storage site. Recent studies using fura-2 show that, after thrombin stimulation, the rise in free calcium is transient and returns to base-line levels in 2-3 min, while the transient following ADP stimulation lasts only 15-20 s. We reported previously that the phorbol ester 12,13-phorbol myristate acetate (PMA), added at nanomolar levels after thrombin, immediately accelerated the rate of return of calcium to the base line severalfold. In the present study, we used both intact and saponized platelets to determine whether this is due to stimulation of calciummore » sequestration. Using fura-2 and intact platelets, we found 1) that PMA stimulated the restoration of free Ca2+ levels after ADP as well as after thrombin, and 2) that H-7, an inhibitor of protein kinase C (Ca2+/phospholipid-dependent enzyme), slowed the return of Ca2+ to baseline levels. Using saponized platelets, we also found 3) that pretreatment of platelets with PMA before saponin treatment increased the ATP-dependent /sup 45/Ca2+ uptake 2-fold, with a half-maximal effect at 5 nm; 4) that most of the Ca2+ released by ionomycin or by myoinositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate; and 5) that a GTP-binding protein inhibitor, guanosine 5'-O-(2-thiodiphosphate), decreased basal or PMA-stimulated /sup 45/Ca2+ uptake in saponin-treated platelets. Our data suggest that activation of protein kinase C stimulates the sequestration of Ca2+ independently of cAMP or myoinositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate.« less

  10. The tripeptide aldehyde, Boc-DPhe-Phe-Lysinal, is a novel Ca2+ channel inhibitor in pituitary cells.

    PubMed

    Makara, G B; Rappay, G; Garamvölgyi, V; Nagy, I; Dankó, S; Bajusz, S

    1988-06-22

    The effect of Boc-DPhe-Phe-Lysinal (Boc-DPPL) on the 45Ca2+ uptake of rat anterior pituitary monolayer cultures was investigated. The compound decreased the basal Ca2+ uptake at 3 x 10(-4) mol/l. The 45Ca2+ uptake stimulated by potassium-induced depolarization was more sensitive to Boc-DPPL inhibition, a slight decrease was seen with 3 x 10(-6) mol/l and there was a half maximal inhibition at 3 x 10(-5) mol/l. Boc-DPPL is known to inhibit pituitary hormone release in similar concentrations, an effect might also be due to its calcium antagonist property.

  11. Calmodulin antagonists have differential effects on Ca/sup 2 +/ uptake, (Ca/sup 2 +/ + Mg/sup 2 +/)-ATPase and Ca/sup 2 +/ release in hepatic endoplasmic reticulum

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Delfert, D.M.; Koepnick, S.; McDonald, J.M.

    1986-05-01

    The effect of calmodulin (CaM) antagonists on Ca/sup 2 +/ handling by hepatic endoplasmic reticulum (ER) was studied. Ca/sup 2 +/ uptake by saponin-permeabilized hepatocytes or isolated ER was measured using /sup 45/Ca/sup 2 +/ in a filtration assay in the presence of 0.09 ..mu..M free (Ca/sup 2 +/) and inhibitors of mitochondrial Ca/sup 2 +/ transport. Each CaM-antagonist (chlorpromazine, CPZ; trifluoperazine, TFP; calmidazolium, W7 and 48/80) showed a dose-dependent inhibition of Ca/sup 2 +/ accumulation in permeabilized hepatocytes. Both the initial rate and steady state values for Ca/sup 2 +/ uptake were reduced by 50% with 40 ..mu..M calmidazolium,more » 100 ..mu..M TFP, 150..mu..M W7, 150 ..mu..M CPZ and 300 ..mu..M 48/80. Using isolated ER both calmidazolium (20 ..mu..M) and W7 (150 ..mu..M) inhibited the initial rate and steady state level of Ca/sup 2 +/ accumulation. At this concentration calmidazolium inhibited the initial rate of (Ca/sup 2 +/ + Mg/sup 2 +/)-ATPase activity, and enhanced Ca/sup 2 +/ release. In contrast, W7 had no effect on these parameters. These results suggest that the reduced level of Ca/sup 2 +/ uptake into ER vesicles in the presence of calmidazolium may result from inhibition of the (Ca/sup 2 +/ + Mg/sup 2 +/)-ATPase as well as induction of Ca/sup 2 +/ release, while W7 may act to uncouple Ca/sup 2 +/ transport from its (Ca/sup 2 +/ + Mg/sup 2 +/)-ATPase counterpart.« less

  12. Mechanism of chloride-dependent release of Ca2+ in the sarcoplasmic reticulum of rabbit skeletal muscle.

    PubMed Central

    Sukhareva, M; Morrissette, J; Coronado, R

    1994-01-01

    We investigated the effect of Cl- on the Ca2+ permeability of rabbit skeletal muscle junctional sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) using 45Ca2+ fluxes and single channel recordings. In 45Ca2+ efflux experiments, the lumen of the SR was passively loaded with solutions of 150 mM univalent salt containing 5 mM 45Ca2+. Release of 45Ca2+ was measured by rapid filtration in the presence of extravesicular 0.4-0.8 microM free Ca2+ and 150 mM of the same univalent salt loaded into the SR lumen. The rate of release was 5-10 times higher when the univalent salt equilibrated across the SR-contained Cl- (Tris-Cl, choline-Cl, KCl) instead of an organic anion or other halides (gluconate-, methanesulfonate-, acetate-, HEPES-, Br-, I-). Cations (K+, Tris+) could be interchanged without a significant effect on the release rate. To determine whether Cl- stimulated ryanodine receptors, we measured the stimulation of release by ATP (5 mM total) and caffeine (20 mM total) and the inhibition by Mg2+ (0.8 mM estimated free) in Cl(-)-free and Cl(-)-containing solutions. The effects of ATP, caffeine, and Mg2+ were the largest in K-gluconate and Tris-gluconate, intermediate in KCl, and notably poor or absent in choline-Cl and Tris-Cl. Procaine (10 mM) inhibited the caffeine-stimulated release measured in K-gluconate, whereas the Cl- channel blocker clofibric acid (10 mM) but not procaine inhibited the caffeine-insensitive release measured in choline-Cl. Ruthenium red (20 microM) inhibited release in all solutions. In SR fused to planar bilayers we identified a nonselective Cl- channel (PCl: PTris: PCa = 1:0.5:0.3) blocked by ruthenium red and clofibric acid but not by procaine. These conductive and pharmacological properties suggested the channel was likely to mediate Cl(-)-dependent SR Ca2+ release. The absence of a contribution of ryanodine receptors to the Cl(-)-dependent release were indicated by the lack of an effect of Cl- on the open probability of this channel, a complete block by procaine

  13. Ethanol stimulates glucose uptake and translocation of GLUT-4 in H9c2 myotubes via a Ca(2+)-dependent mechanism.

    PubMed

    Yu, B; Schroeder, A; Nagy, L E

    2000-12-01

    Short-term exposure to ethanol impairs glucose homeostasis, but the effects of ethanol on individual components of the glucose disposal pathway are not known. To understand the mechanisms by which ethanol disrupts glucose homeostasis, we have investigated the direct effects of ethanol on glucose uptake and translocation of GLUT-4 in H9c2 myotubes. Short-term treatment with 12.5-50 mM ethanol increased uptake of 2-deoxyglucose by 1.8-fold in differentiated myotubes. Pretreatment of H9c2 myotubes with 100 nM wortmannin, an inhibitor of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase, had no effect on ethanol-induced increases in 2-deoxyglucose uptake. In contrast, preincubation with 25 microM dantrolene, an inhibitor of Ca(2+) release from the sarcoplasmic reticulum, blocked the stimulation of 2-deoxyglucose uptake by ethanol. Increased 2-deoxyglucose uptake after ethanol treatment was associated with a decrease in small intracellular GLUT-4 vesicles and an increase in GLUT-4 localized at the cell surface. In contrast, ethanol had no effect on the quantity of GLUT-1 and GLUT-3 at the plasma membrane. These data demonstrate that physiologically relevant concentrations of ethanol disrupt the trafficking of GLUT-4 in H9c2 myotubes resulting in translocation of GLUT-4 to the plasma membrane and increased glucose uptake.

  14. Effects of platelet activating factor on contractile force and 45Ca fluxes in guinea-pig isolated atria.

    PubMed Central

    Diez, J.; Delpón, E.; Tamargo, J.

    1990-01-01

    1. The effects of platelet activating factor (PAF) were studied on the electromechanical properties and 45Ca2+ fluxes of guinea-pig isolated atria. 2 Both in spontaneously beating and electrically driven atria, PAF (10(-12)-10(-7) M) increased atrial rate but produced a biphasic effect on contractile force. At low concentrations (up to 10(-10) M) it produced a positive inotropic effect, while at higher concentrations PAF exerted a negative inotropic effect. A similar biphasic effect was observed in the slow contractions elicited by isoprenaline in K(+)-depolarized atrial fibres. 3. The positive inotropic effect of PAF was prevented by verapamil, whereas pretreatment of atria with propranolol, phentolamine, indomethacin or atropine did not modify its positive and negative inotropic actions. BN 52021, a specific PAF antagonist, abolished both the positive and negative inotropic effects. 4. PAF had no effect on the characteristics of the action potentials recorded in either normally polarized or K(+)-depolarized (slow action potential) atrial fibres. 5. At concentrations at which it increased contractile force, PAF potentiated the contractile responses to Ca2+ (0.9-9 mM), whereas at negative inotropic concentrations it inhibited them. The negative inotropic effect of PAF was partially reversed in 70% Na+ medium. 6. At 10(-11) M, PAF increased 45Ca2+ uptake and reduced the rate coefficient (kcm) for the 45Ca2+ efflux. This increase in 45Ca2+ uptake was abolished in atria pretreated with verapamil or BN 52021. However, 10(-7) M PAF modified neither 45Ca2+ uptake nor efflux in atrial muscle.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID:2379035

  15. Laser irradiation of mouse spermatozoa enhances in-vitro fertilization and Ca2+ uptake via reactive oxygen species

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Cohen, Natalie; Lubart, Rachel; Rubinstein, Sara; Breitbart, Haim

    1996-11-01

    630 nm He-Ne laser irradiation was found to have a profound influence on Ca2+ uptake in mouse spermatozoa and the fertilizing potential of these cells. Laser irradiation affected mainly the mitochondrial Ca2+ transport mechanisms. Furthermore, the effect of light was found to be Ca2+-dependent. We demonstrate that reactive oxygen species (ROS) are involved in the cascade of biochemical events evoked by laser irradiation. A causal association between laser irradiation, ROS generation, and sperm function was indicated by studies with ROS scavengers, superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase, and exogenous hydrogen peroxide. SOD treatment resulted in increased Ca2+ uptake and in enhanced fertilization rate. Catalase treatment impaired the light-induced stimulation in Ca2+ uptake and fertilization rate. Exogenous hydrogen peroxide was found to enhance Ca2+ uptake in mouse spermatozoa and the fertilizing capability of these cells in a dose-dependent manner. These results suggest that the effect of 630 nm He-Ne laser irradiation is mediated through the generation of hydrogen peroxide by the spermatozoa and that this effect plays a significant role in the augmentation of the sperm cells' capability to fertilize metaphase II-arrested eggs in-vitro.

  16. Bergmann glia modulate cerebellar Purkinje cell bistability via Ca2+-dependent K+ uptake

    PubMed Central

    Wang, Fushun; Xu, Qiwu; Wang, Weishan; Takano, Takahiro; Nedergaard, Maiken

    2012-01-01

    Recent studies have shown that cerebellar Bergmann glia display coordinated Ca2+ transients in live mice. However, the functional significance of Bergmann glial Ca2+ signaling remains poorly understood. Using transgenic mice that allow selective stimulation of glial cells, we report here that cytosolic Ca2+ regulates uptake of K+ by Bergmann glia, thus providing a powerful mechanism for control of Purkinje cell-membrane potential. The decline in extracellular K+ evoked by agonist-induced Ca2+ in Bergmann glia transiently increased spike activity of Purkinje cells in cerebellar slices as well as in live anesthetized mice. Thus, Bergmann glia play a previously unappreciated role in controlling the membrane potential and thereby the activity of adjacent Purkinje cells. PMID:22547829

  17. /sup 45/Ca distribution and transport in saponin skinned vascular smooth muscle

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Stout, M.A.; Diecke, F.P.

    1983-04-01

    /sup 45/Ca distribution and transport were studied in chemically skinned strips of caudal artery from Kyoto Wistar rats. Sarcolemmal membranes were made hyperpermeable by exposure for 60 min to solutions containing 0.1 mg/ml of saponin. Skinned helical strips responded with graded contractions to changes in ethylene glycol bis-(beta-aminoethyl ether)-N,N'-tetraacetic acid buffered free Ca solutions (10(-7) to 10(-5) M) and were sensitive to the Mg-ATP concentration. Tissues loaded in the presence of 10(-7) M Ca contracted in response to 10 mM caffeine. These experiments indicate the strips are skinned and possess a functional regulatory and contractile system and an intact Camore » sequestering system. /sup 45/Ca distributes in three compartments in skinned caudal artery strips. The Ca contents of two components are linear functions of the Ca-ethylene glycol bis-(beta-aminoethyl ether)-N,N'-tetraacetic acid concentration and desaturate at rapid rates. They correspond to the extracellular and cytoplasmic spaces. A significantly smaller component releases Ca at comparatively slower rates. /sup 45/Ca uptake by the slow component consists of an ATP-dependent and an ATP-independent fraction. The /sup 45/Ca content of the ATP-dependent fraction is a function of the free Ca concentration and is independent of the Ca-ethylene glycol bis-(beta-aminoethyl ether)-N,N'-tetraacetic acid concentration. Its content was enhanced by oxalate and was abolished by Triton X-100 skinning solutions. The ATP-independent component was not affected by Triton X-100 skinning and may represent Ca binding to cytoplasmic molecules and structures. The sequestered Ca was released with caffeine or Ca but not by epinephrine. The observations indicate that the sarcoplasmic reticulum and mitochondria of vascular smooth muscle strips skinned with saponin retain their functional integrity after saponin skinning.« less

  18. An Arg-Gly-Asp peptide stimulates Ca2+ efflux from osteoclast precursors through a novel mechanism

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Yamakawa, K.; Duncan, R.; Hruska, K. A.

    1994-01-01

    We examined the effect of a peptide containing the Arg-Gly-Asp (RGD) sequence on 45Ca2+ efflux from osteoclast precursors. 45Ca(2+)-loaded osteoclast precursors were treated with GRGDSP (170 microM) for 10 min after 30 min of basal perfusion with a bicarbonate-containing buffer. GRGDSP significantly increased fractional efflux of Ca2+ from treated cells compared with vehicle-treated cells (P < 0.01) or cells treated with up to 200 micrograms/ml of a control peptide containing GRGESP. The effect of RGD was sustained for 15 min after the peptide was removed from the perfusate, but control levels of Ca2+ efflux returned by 1 h. The Ca2+ efflux effect of GRGDSP was most likely due to activation of the plasma membrane Ca(2+)-adenosinetriphosphatase (Ca(2+)-ATPase) pump, as indicated by its inhibition with vanadate and a calmodulin antagonist, N-(4-aminobutyl)-5-chloro-2-naphthalenesulfonamide, and the absence of an effect of Na+/Ca2+ exchange inhibition. An inhibitor of cyclic nucleotide-dependent protein kinases, N-[2-(methylamino)ethyl]-5-isoquinoline-sulfonamide (0.1 mM), failed to inhibit GRGDSP-stimulated Ca2+ efflux. However, genistein and herbimycin A, inhibitors of protein-tyrosine kinases, blocked Ca2+ efflux stimulated by GRGDSP. The results indicate that RGD sequences of matrix proteins may stimulate Ca2+ efflux from osteoclasts through activation of protein-tyrosine kinases and suggest that GRGDSP-stimulated Ca2+ efflux is mediated via the plasma membrane Ca(2+)-ATPase.

  19. Oxyntomodulin stimulates intestinal glucose uptake in rats.

    PubMed

    Collie, N L; Zhu, Z; Jordan, S; Reeve, J R

    1997-06-01

    Enteroglucagon peptides have long been proposed as mediators of intestinal adaptation, including mucosal growth and nutrient absorptive capacity. The hypothesis that infusions of oxyntomodulin, a bioactive form of enteroglucagon, would stimulate glucose and amino acid uptake was tested and its effects were compared with those of glucagon. Rats were infused intravenously via minipumps with either saline, rat oxyntomodulin (0.47 nmol x kg(-1) x h[-1]), or glucagon (0.88 nmol x kg(-1) x h[-1]) for 7 days, and plasma hormone levels were measured. At death, intestinal dimensions and brush border uptake of D-glucose and L-proline were measured using an in vitro everted sleeve technique. Plasma enteroglucagon and glucagon levels were increased 4- and 12-fold, respectively, but there were no effects on food intake, body weight, or intestinal dimensions. In contrast, oxyntomodulin and glucagon significantly stimulated total intestinal glucose uptake capacity by 44% and 53%, respectively, over controls. Oxyntomodulin most potently enhanced glucose uptake in the ileum (215%), whereas glucagon's greatest effect was in the jejunum (63%-85%). However, neither peptide affected proline uptake. These results support a new, specific action for oxyntomodulin in intestinal adaptation as a glucose uptake stimulator and confirm glucagon's role as a regulator of glucose uptake.

  20. Adrenergic Signaling Regulates Mitochondrial Ca2+ Uptake Through Pyk2-Dependent Tyrosine Phosphorylation of the Mitochondrial Ca2+ Uniporter

    PubMed Central

    Jhun, Bong Sook; Xu, Shangcheng; Hurst, Stephen; Raffaello, Anna; Liu, Xiaoyun; Yi, Bing; Zhang, Huiliang; Gross, Polina; Mishra, Jyotsna; Ainbinder, Alina; Kettlewell, Sarah; Smith, Godfrey L.; Dirksen, Robert T.; Wang, Wang; Rizzuto, Rosario

    2014-01-01

    Abstract Aims: Mitochondrial Ca2+ homeostasis is crucial for balancing cell survival and death. The recent discovery of the molecular identity of the mitochondrial Ca2+ uniporter pore (MCU) opens new possibilities for applying genetic approaches to study mitochondrial Ca2+ regulation in various cell types, including cardiac myocytes. Basal tyrosine phosphorylation of MCU was reported from mass spectroscopy of human and mouse tissues, but the signaling pathways that regulate mitochondrial Ca2+ entry through posttranslational modifications of MCU are completely unknown. Therefore, we investigated α1-adrenergic-mediated signal transduction of MCU posttranslational modification and function in cardiac cells. Results: α1-adrenoceptor (α1-AR) signaling translocated activated proline-rich tyrosine kinase 2 (Pyk2) from the cytosol to mitochondrial matrix and accelerates mitochondrial Ca2+ uptake via Pyk2-dependent MCU phosphorylation and tetrametric MCU channel pore formation. Moreover, we found that α1-AR stimulation increases reactive oxygen species production at mitochondria, mitochondrial permeability transition pore activity, and initiates apoptotic signaling via Pyk2-dependent MCU activation and mitochondrial Ca2+ overload. Innovation: Our data indicate that inhibition of α1-AR-Pyk2-MCU signaling represents a potential novel therapeutic target to limit or prevent mitochondrial Ca2+ overload, oxidative stress, mitochondrial injury, and myocardial death during pathophysiological conditions, where chronic adrenergic stimulation is present. Conclusion: The α1-AR-Pyk2-dependent tyrosine phosphorylation of the MCU regulates mitochondrial Ca2+ entry and apoptosis in cardiac cells. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 21, 863–879. PMID:24800979

  1. Mg(2+) differentially regulates two modes of mitochondrial Ca(2+) uptake in isolated cardiac mitochondria: implications for mitochondrial Ca(2+) sequestration.

    PubMed

    Blomeyer, Christoph A; Bazil, Jason N; Stowe, David F; Dash, Ranjan K; Camara, Amadou K S

    2016-06-01

    The manner in which mitochondria take up and store Ca(2+) remains highly debated. Recent experimental and computational evidence has suggested the presence of at least two modes of Ca(2+) uptake and a complex Ca(2+) sequestration mechanism in mitochondria. But how Mg(2+) regulates these different modes of Ca(2+) uptake as well as mitochondrial Ca(2+) sequestration is not known. In this study, we investigated two different ways by which mitochondria take up and sequester Ca(2+) by using two different protocols. Isolated guinea pig cardiac mitochondria were exposed to varying concentrations of CaCl2 in the presence or absence of MgCl2. In the first protocol, A, CaCl2 was added to the respiration buffer containing isolated mitochondria, whereas in the second protocol, B, mitochondria were added to the respiration buffer with CaCl2 already present. Protocol A resulted first in a fast transitory uptake followed by a slow gradual uptake. In contrast, protocol B only revealed a slow and gradual Ca(2+) uptake, which was approximately 40 % of the slow uptake rate observed in protocol A. These two types of Ca(2+) uptake modes were differentially modulated by extra-matrix Mg(2+). That is, Mg(2+) markedly inhibited the slow mode of Ca(2+) uptake in both protocols in a concentration-dependent manner, but not the fast mode of uptake exhibited in protocol A. Mg(2+) also inhibited Na(+)-dependent Ca(2+) extrusion. The general Ca(2+) binding properties of the mitochondrial Ca(2+) sequestration system were reaffirmed and shown to be independent of the mode of Ca(2+) uptake, i.e. through the fast or slow mode of uptake. In addition, extra-matrix Mg(2+) hindered Ca(2+) sequestration. Our results indicate that mitochondria exhibit different modes of Ca(2+) uptake depending on the nature of exposure to extra-matrix Ca(2+), which are differentially sensitive to Mg(2+). The implications of these findings in cardiomyocytes are discussed.

  2. Rapamycin (sirolimus) protects against hypoxic damage in primary heart cultures via Na+/Ca2+ exchanger activation.

    PubMed

    El-Ani, Dalia; Stav, Hagit; Guetta, Victor; Arad, Michael; Shainberg, Asher

    2011-07-04

    Rapamycin (sirolimus) is an antibiotic that inhibits protein synthesis through mammalian targeting of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling, and is used as an immunosuppressant in the treatment of organ rejection in transplant recipients. Rapamycin confers preconditioning-like protection against ischemic-reperfusion injury in isolated mouse heart cultures. Our aim was to further define the role of rapamycin in intracellular Ca(2+) homeostasis and to investigate the mechanism by which rapamycin protects cardiomyocytes from hypoxic damage. We demonstrate here that rapamycin protects rat heart cultures from hypoxic-reoxygenation (H/R) damage, as revealed by assays of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and creatine kinase (CK) leakage to the medium, by MTT (3-[4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) measurements, and desmin immunostaining. As a result of hypoxia, intracellular calcium levels ([Ca(2+)](i)) were elevated. However, treatment of heart cultures with rapamycin during hypoxia attenuated the increase of [Ca(2+)](i). Rapamycin also attenuated (45)Ca(2+) uptake into the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) of skinned heart cultures in a dose- and time-dependent manner. KB-R7943, which inhibits the "reverse" mode of Na(+)/Ca(2+) exchanger (NCX), protected heart cultures from H/R damage with or without the addition of rapamycin. Rapamycin decreased [Ca(2+)](i) following its elevation by extracellular Ca(2+) ([Ca(2+)](o)) influx, thapsigargin treatment, or depolarization with KCl. We suggest that rapamycin induces cardioprotection against hypoxic/reoxygenation damage in primary heart cultures by stimulating NCX to extrude Ca(2+) outside the cardiomyocytes. According to our findings, rapamycin preserves Ca(2+) homeostasis and prevents Ca(2+) overload via extrusion of Ca(2+) surplus outside the sarcolemma, thereby protecting the cells from hypoxic stress. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  3. β2-Adrenergic stimulation enhances Ca2+ release and contractile properties of skeletal muscles, and counteracts exercise-induced reductions in Na+–K+-ATPase Vmax in trained men

    PubMed Central

    Hostrup, M; Kalsen, A; Ørtenblad, N; Juel, C; Mørch, K; Rzeppa, S; Karlsson, S; Backer, V; Bangsbo, J

    2014-01-01

    The aim of the present study was to examine the effect of β2-adrenergic stimulation on skeletal muscle contractile properties, sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) rates of Ca2+ release and uptake, and Na+–K+-ATPase activity before and after fatiguing exercise in trained men. The study consisted of two experiments (EXP1, n = 10 males, EXP2, n = 20 males), where β2-adrenoceptor agonist (terbutaline) or placebo was randomly administered in double-blinded crossover designs. In EXP1, maximal voluntary isometric contraction (MVC) of m. quadriceps was measured, followed by exercise to fatigue at 120% of maximal oxygen uptake (). A muscle biopsy was taken after MVC (non-fatigue) and at time of fatigue. In EXP2, contractile properties of m. quadriceps were measured with electrical stimulations before (non-fatigue) and after two fatiguing 45 s sprints. Non-fatigued MVCs were 6 ± 3 and 6 ± 2% higher (P < 0.05) with terbutaline than placebo in EXP1 and EXP2, respectively. Furthermore, peak twitch force was 11 ± 7% higher (P < 0.01) with terbutaline than placebo at non-fatigue. After sprints, MVC declined (P < 0.05) to the same levels with terbutaline as placebo, whereas peak twitch force was lower (P < 0.05) and half-relaxation time was prolonged (P < 0.05) with terbutaline. Rates of SR Ca2+ release and uptake at 400 nm [Ca2+] were 15 ± 5 and 14 ± 5% (P < 0.05) higher, respectively, with terbutaline than placebo at non-fatigue, but declined (P < 0.05) to similar levels at time of fatigue. Na+–K+-ATPase activity was unaffected by terbutaline compared with placebo at non-fatigue, but terbutaline counteracted exercise-induced reductions in maximum rate of activity (Vmax) at time of fatigue. In conclusion, increased contractile force induced by β2-adrenergic stimulation is associated with enhanced rate of Ca2+ release in humans. While β2-adrenergic stimulation elicits positive inotropic and lusitropic effects on non-fatigued m. quadriceps, these effects are blunted when

  4. Calmodulin-stimulated Ca(2+)-ATPases in the vacuolar and plasma membranes in cauliflower.

    PubMed

    Askerlund, P

    1997-07-01

    The subcellular locations of Ca(2+)-ATPases in the membranes of cauliflower (Brassica oleracea L.) inflorescences were investigated. After continuous sucrose gradient centrifugation a 111-kD calmodulin (CaM)-stimulated and caM-binding Ca(2+)-ATPase (BCA1; P. Askerlund [1996] Plant Physiol 110: 913-922; S. Malmström, P. Askerlund, M.G. Plamgren [1997] FEBS Lett 400: 324-328) comigrated with vacuolar membrane markers, whereas a 116-kD caM-binding Ca(2+)-ATPase co-migrated with a marker for the plasma membrane. The 116 kD Ca(2+)-ATPase was enriched in plasma membranes obtained by aqueous two-phase partitioning, which is in agreement with a plasma membrane location of this Ca(2+)-ATPase. Countercurrent distribution of a low-density intracellular membrane fraction in an aqueous two-phase system resulted in the separation of the endoplasmic reticulum and vacuolar membranes. The 111-kD Ca(2+)-ATPase co-migrated with a vacuolar membrane marker after countercurrent distribution but not with markers for the endoplasmic reticulum. A vacuolar membrane location of the 111-kD Ca(2+)-AtPase was further supported by experiments with isolated vacuoles from cauliflower: (a) Immunoblotting with an antibody against the 111-kD Ca(2+)-ATPase showed that it was associated with the vacuoles, and (b) ATP-dependent Ca2+ uptake by the intact vacuoles was found to be CaM stimulated and partly protonophore insensitive.

  5. The influence of methionine-5-enkephalin on calcium uptake by the bovine aortic media.

    PubMed

    Kokkas, B; Kotoula, M; Kouyoumtzis, A; Kouvelas, D; Papadopoulos, K; Paradelis, A G

    1990-04-01

    The influence of methionine-5-enkephalin (M-5-E), an endogenous opioid receptor agonist, on calcium uptake by bovine aortic media was investigated in vitro. 45Ca was used and radioactivity was counted in a beta scintillation counter. M-5-E increases Ca2+ uptake by the preparation. This action is inhibited by naloxone and that is proof that an opioid receptor is stimulated. A comparative study showed that phenylephrine, an alpha-adrenoceptor agonist, exhibits the same action as M-5-E, whereas morphine's action is negligible. Phenylephrine contracts the deendotheliazed ring of the bovine aorta, whereas M-5-E fails to do so. It is concluded that an opioid receptor was identified at the bovine aortic smooth muscle. This receptor is stimulated by M-5-E resulting in an increase of the extracellular Ca2+ entrance. Although no relationship was observed between the receptor and the contraction mechanism, a possible role of M-5-E in the maintenance of the vascular tone cannot be excluded.

  6. Limited effects of exogenous glucose during severe hypoxia and a lack of hypoxia-stimulated glucose uptake in isolated rainbow trout cardiac muscle

    PubMed Central

    Becker, Tracy A.; DellaValle, Brian; Gesser, Hans; Rodnick, Kenneth J.

    2013-01-01

    SUMMARY We examined whether exogenous glucose affects contractile performance of electrically paced ventricle strips from rainbow trout under conditions known to alter cardiomyocyte performance, ion regulation and energy demands. Physiological levels of d-glucose did not influence twitch force development for aerobic preparations (1) paced at 0.5 or 1.1 Hz, (2) at 15 or 23°C, (3) receiving adrenergic stimulation or (4) during reoxygenation with or without adrenaline after severe hypoxia. Contractile responses to ryanodine, an inhibitor of Ca2+ release from the sarcoplasmic reticulum, were also not affected by exogenous glucose. However, glucose did attenuate the fall in twitch force during severe hypoxia. Glucose uptake was assayed in non-contracting ventricle strips using 2-[3H] deoxy-d-glucose (2-DG) under aerobic and hypoxic conditions, at different incubation temperatures and with different inhibitors. Based upon a lack of saturation of 2-DG uptake and incomplete inhibition of uptake by cytochalasin B and d-glucose, 2-DG uptake was mediated by a combination of facilitated transport and simple diffusion. Hypoxia stimulated lactate efflux sixfold to sevenfold with glucose present, but did not increase 2-DG uptake or reduce lactate efflux in the presence of cytochalasin B. Increasing temperature (14 to 24°C) also did not increase 2-DG uptake, but decreasing temperature (14 to 4°C) reduced 2-DG uptake by 45%. In conclusion, exogenous glucose improves mechanical performance under hypoxia but not under any of the aerobic conditions applied. The extracellular concentration of glucose and cold temperature appear to determine and limit cardiomyocyte glucose uptake, respectively, and together may help define a metabolic strategy that relies predominantly on intracellular energy stores. PMID:23685969

  7. β2-adrenergic stimulation enhances Ca2+ release and contractile properties of skeletal muscles, and counteracts exercise-induced reductions in Na+-K+-ATPase Vmax in trained men.

    PubMed

    Hostrup, M; Kalsen, A; Ortenblad, N; Juel, C; Mørch, K; Rzeppa, S; Karlsson, S; Backer, V; Bangsbo, J

    2014-12-15

    The aim of the present study was to examine the effect of β2-adrenergic stimulation on skeletal muscle contractile properties, sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) rates of Ca(2+) release and uptake, and Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase activity before and after fatiguing exercise in trained men. The study consisted of two experiments (EXP1, n = 10 males, EXP2, n = 20 males), where β2-adrenoceptor agonist (terbutaline) or placebo was randomly administered in double-blinded crossover designs. In EXP1, maximal voluntary isometric contraction (MVC) of m. quadriceps was measured, followed by exercise to fatigue at 120% of maximal oxygen uptake (V̇O2, max ). A muscle biopsy was taken after MVC (non-fatigue) and at time of fatigue. In EXP2, contractile properties of m. quadriceps were measured with electrical stimulations before (non-fatigue) and after two fatiguing 45 s sprints. Non-fatigued MVCs were 6 ± 3 and 6 ± 2% higher (P < 0.05) with terbutaline than placebo in EXP1 and EXP2, respectively. Furthermore, peak twitch force was 11 ± 7% higher (P < 0.01) with terbutaline than placebo at non-fatigue. After sprints, MVC declined (P < 0.05) to the same levels with terbutaline as placebo, whereas peak twitch force was lower (P < 0.05) and half-relaxation time was prolonged (P < 0.05) with terbutaline. Rates of SR Ca(2+) release and uptake at 400 nm [Ca(2+)] were 15 ± 5 and 14 ± 5% (P < 0.05) higher, respectively, with terbutaline than placebo at non-fatigue, but declined (P < 0.05) to similar levels at time of fatigue. Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase activity was unaffected by terbutaline compared with placebo at non-fatigue, but terbutaline counteracted exercise-induced reductions in maximum rate of activity (Vmax) at time of fatigue. In conclusion, increased contractile force induced by β2-adrenergic stimulation is associated with enhanced rate of Ca(2+) release in humans. While β2-adrenergic stimulation elicits positive inotropic and lusitropic effects on non-fatigued m. quadriceps, these effects

  8. Polyamine Uptake in Carrot Cell Cultures 1

    PubMed Central

    Pistocchi, Rossella; Bagni, Nello; Creus, José A.

    1987-01-01

    Putrescine and spermidine uptake into carrot (Daucus carota L.) cells in culture was studied. The time course of uptake showed that the two polyamines were very quickly transported into the cells, reaching a maximum absorption within 1 minute. Increasing external polyamine concentrations up to 100 millimolar showed the existence of a biphasic system with different affinities at low and high polyamine concentrations. The cellular localization of absorbed polyamines was such that a greater amount of putrescine was present in the cytoplasmic soluble fraction, while spermidine was mostly present in cell walls. The absorbed polyamines were released into the medium in the presence of increasing external concentrations of the corresponding polyamine or Ca2+. The effects of Ca2+ were different for putrescine and spermidine; putrescine uptake was slightly stimulated by 10 micromolar Ca2+ and inhibited by higher concentrations, while for spermidine uptake there was an increasing stimulation in the Ca2+ concentration range between 10 micromolar and 1 millimolar. La3+ nullified the stimulatory effect of 10 micromolar Ca2+ on putrescine uptake and that of 1 millimolar Ca2+ on spermidine uptake. La3+ at 0.5 to 1 millimolar markedly inhibited the uptake of both polyamines, suggesting that it interferes with the sites of polyamine uptake. Putrescine uptake was affected to a lesser extent by metabolic inhibitors than was spermidine uptake. It is proposed that the entry of polyamines into the cells is driven by the transmembrane electrical gradient, with a possible antiport mechanism between external and internal polyamine molecule. PMID:16665446

  9. Linking Fruit Ca Uptake Capacity to Fruit Growth and Pedicel Anatomy, a Cross-Species Study

    PubMed Central

    Song, Wenpei; Yi, Junwen; Kurniadinata, Odit F.; Wang, Huicong; Huang, Xuming

    2018-01-01

    Calcium (Ca) in flesh fruits is important for quality formation and maintenance. Most studies on fruit Ca focus on one species. This study attempted to understand some universal relations to fruit Ca uptake across species. Calcium contents in fruit tissues were analyzed in different fruits, including three cultivars of litchi, two cultivars each of grape and citrus, and one cultivar each of loquat, apple, pear, Indian jujube, and longan. In situ Ca distribution was revealed with electron probe and xylem functionality visualized by dye tracing. Fruit Ca uptake rate and activity were calculated and correlated with fruit growth and pedicel anatomy. The results showed that fruit Ca uptake rate was the highest in pomes (loquat, apple, and pear), followed by Indian jujube drupe, arillate fruits (litchis and longan) and citrus, while grape berries were the lowest. Fruit Ca uptake rate showed a strong positive correlation to growth rate. However, Ca uptake activity, reflecting Ca uptake rate relative to growth, was the highest in arillate fruits and loquat and lowest in grape berries, and had a poor correlation with fruit growth rate. In all fruits, Ca concentration in the pedicel was higher than in the fruit, and they displayed a good positive correlation. In the pedicel, Ca was most abundant in the phloem. Dye tracing showed that xylem function loss occurred with maturation in all species/varieties. Apple had the poorest xylem functionality with the least development of secondary xylem, but its Ca uptake rate was among the highest. Vessel density, size and area in the pedicel showed no correlation with fruit Ca uptake rate. It is concluded that: (1) fruit growth may be a key determinant of Ca uptake; (2) the universal pattern of Ca being higher in the pedicel than in the fruit indicates existence of a pedicel-fruit “bottleneck” effect in Ca transport across species; (3) xylem functionality loss with fruit maturation is also a universal event; (4) in the pedicel, Ca

  10. Duodenal Ca2+ absorption is not stimulated by calcitriol during early postnatal development of pigs.

    PubMed

    Schroeder, B; Dahl, M R; Breves, G

    1998-08-01

    The role of calcitriol in stimulating intestinal active Ca2+ absorption during postnatal life was studied in newborn, suckling, and weaned control (Con) piglets and piglets suffering from inherited calcitriol deficiency (Def piglets). In addition, a group of Def piglets was treated with vitamin D3 (Def-D3 piglets), which normalized plasma calcitriol levels. Regardless of age, duodenal calbindin-D9k concentrations ranged between 1,839 and 2,846 microg/g mucosa in Con piglets, between 821 and 1,219 microg/g mucosa in Def piglets, and between 2,960 and 3,692 microg/g mucosa in Def-D3 animals. In weaned animals, active Ca2+ absorption as calculated from in vitro 45Ca2+ flux rate measurements in Ussing chambers could be related to calbindin-D9k levels. Thus active Ca2+ absorption was completely absent in Def animals but was reconstituted in Def-D3 animals. In contrast, in newborn Def piglets active Ca2+ absorption functioned normally despite the low plasma calcitriol and mucosal calbindin-D9k levels and could not be affected by treatment with vitamin D3. Similar results were obtained from suckling Def piglets. The microtubule-disrupting agent colchicine caused significant inhibition of transepithelial net Ca2+ absorption in duodenal epithelia from newborn piglets without exerting an effect in suckling and weaned animals. Colchicine had no effect on Ca2+ uptake across the brush border membrane of mucosal enterocytes or on glucose-dependent electrogenic net ion flux rates in duodenal preparations from newborn Con piglets. In conclusion, our findings reveal intestinal active Ca2+ absorption during early postnatal life of pigs that involves calcitriol-independent mechanisms and that may include intact microtubule actions.

  11. A calcium-dependent protein kinase can inhibit a calmodulin-stimulated Ca2+ pump (ACA2) located in the endoplasmic reticulum of Arabidopsis

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Hwang, I.; Sze, H.; Harper, J. F.; Evans, M. L. (Principal Investigator)

    2000-01-01

    The magnitude and duration of a cytosolic Ca(2+) release can potentially be altered by changing the rate of Ca(2+) efflux. In plant cells, Ca(2+) efflux from the cytoplasm is mediated by H(+)/Ca(2+)-antiporters and two types of Ca(2+)-ATPases. ACA2 was recently identified as a calmodulin-regulated Ca(2+)-pump located in the endoplasmic reticulum. Here, we show that phosphorylation of its N-terminal regulatory domain by a Ca(2+)-dependent protein kinase (CDPK isoform CPK1), inhibits both basal activity ( approximately 10%) and calmodulin stimulation ( approximately 75%), as shown by Ca(2+)-transport assays with recombinant enzyme expressed in yeast. A CDPK phosphorylation site was mapped to Ser(45) near a calmodulin binding site, using a fusion protein containing the N-terminal domain as an in vitro substrate for a recombinant CPK1. In a full-length enzyme, an Ala substitution for Ser(45) (S45/A) completely blocked the observed CDPK inhibition of both basal and calmodulin-stimulated activities. An Asp substitution (S45/D) mimicked phosphoinhibition, indicating that a negative charge at this position is sufficient to account for phosphoinhibition. Interestingly, prior binding of calmodulin blocked phosphorylation. This suggests that, once ACA2 binds calmodulin, its activation state becomes resistant to phosphoinhibition. These results support the hypothesis that ACA2 activity is regulated as the balance between the initial kinetics of calmodulin stimulation and CDPK inhibition, providing an example in plants for a potential point of crosstalk between two different Ca(2+)-signaling pathways.

  12. Specific stimulated uptake of acetylcholine by Torpedo electric organ synaptic vesicles.

    PubMed Central

    Parsons, S M; Koenigsberger, R

    1980-01-01

    The specificity of acetylcholine uptake by synaptic vesicles isolated from the electric organ of Torpedo californica was studied. In the absence of cofactors, [3H]acetylcholine was taken up identically to[14C]choline in the same solution (passive uptake), and the equilibrium concentration achieved inside the vesicles was equal to the concentration outside. In the presence of MgATP, [3H]acetylcholine and [14C]choline in the same solution were taken up identically, except only about half as much of each was taken up (suppressed uptake). [3H]Acetylcholine uptake was stimulated by MgATP and HCO3- about 4-fold relative to suppressed uptake, for a net concentrative uptake of about 2:1 (stimulated uptake). Uptake of [14C]choline in the same solution remained at the suppressed level. [3H]Acetylcholine taken up under stimulated conditions migrated with vesicles containing [14C]mannitol on analytical glycerol density gradients during centrifugation. Vesicle were treated with nine protein modification reagents under mild conditions. Two reagents had no effect on, dithiothreitol potentiated, and six reagents strongly inhibited subsequent stimulated uptake of [3H]acetylcholine. The results indicate that uptake of acetylcholine is conditionally specific for the transported substrate, is carried out by the synaptic vesicles rather than a contaminant of the preparation, and requires a functional protein system containing a critical sulfhydryl group. PMID:6934549

  13. Electrochemical characterisation of CaCl2 deficient LiCl-KCl-CaCl2 eutectic melt and electro-deoxidation of solid UO2

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sri Maha Vishnu, D.; Sanil, N.; Mohandas, K. S.; Nagarajan, K.

    2016-03-01

    The CaCl2 deficient ternary eutectic melt LiCl-KCl-CaCl2 (50.5: 44.2: 5.3 mol %) was electrochemically characterised by cyclic voltammetry and polarization techniques in the context of its probable use as the electrolyte in the electrochemical reduction of solid UO2 to uranium metal. Tungsten (cathodic polarization) and graphite (anodic polarization) working electrodes were used in these studies carried out in the temperature range 623 K-923 K. The cathodic limit of the melt was observed to be set by the deposition of Ca2+ ions followed by Li+ ions on the tungsten electrode and the anodic limit by oxidation of chloride ions on the graphite electrode (chlorine evolution). The difference between the onset potential of deposition of Ca2+ and Li+ was found to be 0.241 V at a scan rate of 20 mV/s at 623 K and the difference decreased with increase in temperature and vanished at 923 K. Polarization measurements with stainless steel (SS) cathode and graphite anode at 673 K showed the possibility of low-energy reactions occurring on the UO2 electrode in the melt. UO2 pellets were cathodically polarized at 3.9 V for 25 h to test the feasibility of electro-reduction to uranium in the melt. The surface of the pellets was found reduced to U metal.

  14. β-Adrenergic stimulation increases the intra-sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ threshold for Ca2+ wave generation

    PubMed Central

    Domeier, Timothy L; Maxwell, Joshua T; Blatter, Lothar A

    2012-01-01

    β-Adrenergic signalling induces positive inotropic effects on the heart that associate with pro-arrhythmic spontaneous Ca2+ waves. A threshold level of sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) Ca2+ ([Ca2+]SR) is necessary to trigger Ca2+ waves, and whether the increased incidence of Ca2+ waves during β-adrenergic stimulation is due to an alteration in this threshold remains controversial. Using the low-affinity Ca2+ indicator fluo-5N entrapped within the SR of rabbit ventricular myocytes, we addressed this controversy by directly monitoring [Ca2+]SR and Ca2+ waves during β-adrenergic stimulation. Electrical pacing in elevated extracellular Ca2+ ([Ca2+]o= 7 mm) was used to increase [Ca2+]SR to the threshold where Ca2+ waves were consistently observed. The β-adrenergic agonist isoproterenol (ISO; 1 μm) increased [Ca2+]SR well above the control threshold and consistently triggered Ca2+ waves. However, when [Ca2+]SR was subsequently lowered in the presence of ISO (by lowering [Ca2+]o to 1 mm and partially inhibiting sarcoplasmic/endoplasmic reticulum calcium ATPase with cyclopiazonic acid or thapsigargin), Ca2+ waves ceased to occur at a [Ca2+]SR that was higher than the control threshold. Furthermore, for a set [Ca2+]SR level the refractoriness of wave occurrence (Ca2+ wave latency) was prolonged during β-adrenergic stimulation, and was highly dependent on the extent that [Ca]SR exceeded the wave threshold. These data show that acute β-adrenergic stimulation increases the [Ca2+]SR threshold for Ca2+ waves, and therefore the primary cause of Ca2+ waves is the robust increase in [Ca2+]SR above this higher threshold level. Elevation of the [Ca2+]SR wave threshold and prolongation of wave latency represent potentially protective mechanisms against pro-arrhythmogenic Ca2+ release during β-adrenergic stimulation. PMID:22988136

  15. Signal transduction mechanisms of K+-Cl- cotransport regulation and relationship to disease.

    PubMed

    Adragna, N C; Ferrell, C M; Zhang, J; Di Fulvio, M; Temprana, C F; Sharma, A; Fyffe, R E W; Cool, D R; Lauf, P K

    2006-01-01

    The K+-Cl- cotransport (COT) regulatory pathways recently uncovered in our laboratory and their implication in disease state are reviewed. Three mechanisms of K+-Cl- COT regulation can be identified in vascular cells: (1) the Li+-sensitive pathway, (2) the platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)-sensitive pathway and (3) the nitric oxide (NO)-dependent pathway. Ion fluxes, Western blotting, semi-quantitative RT-PCR, immunofluorescence and confocal microscopy were used. Li+, used in the treatment of manic depression, stimulates volume-sensitive K+-Cl- COT of low K+ sheep red blood cells at cellular concentrations <1 mM and inhibits at >3 mM, causes cell swelling, and appears to regulate K+-Cl- COT through a protein kinase C-dependent pathway. PDGF, a potent serum mitogen for vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs), regulates membrane transport and is involved in atherosclerosis. PDGF stimulates VSM K+-Cl- COT in a time- and concentration-dependent manner, both acutely and chronically, through the PDGF receptor. The acute effect occurs at the post-translational level whereas the chronic effect may involve regulation through gene expression. Regulation by PDGF involves the signalling molecules phosphoinositides 3-kinase and protein phosphatase-1. Finally, the NO/cGMP/protein kinase G pathway, involved in vasodilation and hence cardiovascular disease, regulates K+-Cl- COT in VSMCs at the mRNA expression and transport levels. A complex and diverse array of mechanisms and effectors regulate K+-Cl- COT and thus cell volume homeostasis, setting the stage for abnormalities at the genetic and/or regulatory level thus effecting or being affected by various pathological conditions.

  16. In vivo stimulation of oestrogen receptor α increases insulin-stimulated skeletal muscle glucose uptake

    PubMed Central

    Gorres, Brittany K; Bomhoff, Gregory L; Morris, Jill K; Geiger, Paige C

    2011-01-01

    Abstract Previous studies suggest oestrogen receptor α (ERα) is involved in oestrogen-mediated regulation of glucose metabolism and is critical for maintenance of whole body insulin action. Despite this, the effect of direct ERα modulation in insulin-responsive tissues is unknown. The purpose of the current study was to determine the impact of ERα activation, using the ER subtype-selective ligand propylpyrazoletriyl (PPT), on skeletal muscle glucose uptake. Two-month-old female Sprague–Dawley rats, ovariectomized for 1 week, were given subcutaneous injections of PPT (10 mg kg−1), oestradiol benzoate (EB; 20 μg kg−1), the ERβ agonist diarylpropionitrile (DPN, 10 mg kg−1) or vehicle every 24 h for 3 days. On the fourth day, insulin-stimulated skeletal muscle glucose uptake was measured in vitro and insulin signalling intermediates were assessed via Western blotting. Activation of ERα with PPT resulted in increased insulin-stimulated glucose uptake into the slow-twitch soleus and fast-twitch extensor digitorum longus (EDL) muscles, activation of insulin signalling intermediates (as measured by phospho-Akt (pAkt) and pAkt substrate (PAS)) and phosphorylation of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK). GLUT4 protein was increased only in the EDL muscle. Rats treated with EB or DPN for 3 days did not show an increase in insulin-stimulated skeletal muscle glucose uptake compared to vehicle-treated animals. These new findings reveal that direct activation of ERα positively mediates glucose uptake and insulin action in skeletal muscle. Evidence that oestrogens and ERα stimulate glucose uptake has important implications for understanding mechanisms of glucose homeostasis, particularly in postmenopausal women. PMID:21486807

  17. MICROSCOPIC METABOLISM OF CALCIUM IN BONE. IV. Ca$sup 45$ DEPOSITION AND GROWTH RATE IN CANINE OSTEONS

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Marshall, J.H.; Jowsey, J.; Rowland, R.E.

    1959-02-01

    The Ca/sup 45/ content of individual osteons in three dogs given single intravenous injections has been measured autoradiographically and correlated with osteon canal diameter measured from microradiographs. An osteon was found to contain up to 10/sup -6/ of the injected activity, its total activity per unit length being approximately proportional to the square of its canal diameter at the time of injection. The activities observed at 12 hours or 2 weeks after injection divided by the corresponding time integral of the blood specific activity yield an accretion rate for calcium at each canal diameter such that the half-diameter time formore » the canal of an average forming osteon in a rather wide distnibution is 3 plus or minus 1 weeks, which is consistent with direct observations of osteon growth. It is concluded that the intense concentrations or in vivo-deposited Ca/sup 45/ which we have observed in canine osteons 12 hours or more after injection are due to accretion of calcium in appositional growth at approximately the specific activity measured in the large veins. The nature of the Ca/sup 45/ uptake in osteons which have completed or arrested appositional growth before injection cannot be inferred from the present data, but such uptake is here of an order of magnitude less than that due to appositional growth. Comparison of calculated blood flow with observed osteon growth rate indieates that an osteon in the early stages of appositiona« less

  18. Interleukin-1 stimulates zinc uptake by human thymic epithelial cells

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Coto, J.A.; Hadden, J.W.

    1991-03-15

    Thymic epithelial cells (TEC) are known to secrete peptides which influence the differentiation and maturation of T-lymphocytes. These peptides include the thymic hormones thymulin, thymosin-{alpha}1, and thymopoietin. The biological activity of thymulin is dependent on the presence of zinc in an equimolar ratio. The authors have shown that both interleukin-1{alpha}(IL-1{alpha}) and interleukin-1{beta}(IL-1{beta}), which stimulate proliferation of TEC, stimulate the uptake of Zn-65 in-vitro independent of this proliferation. Mitomycin-C was used to inhibit the proliferation of TEC. Two other stimulators of proliferation of TEC, bovine pituitary extract (BPE) and epidermal growth factor (EGF), did not stimulate zinc uptake by the TECmore » independent of proliferation. They have also shown, utilizing in-situ hybridization, that IL-1 and zinc induce metallothionein(MT) mRNA expression in human thymic epithelial cells. The exact role of metallothionein is not clear, but it is thought to be involved in regulation of trace metal metabolism, especially in maintenance of zinc homeostasis. Their current hypothesis is that IL-1 stimulates uptake of zinc into the TEC, followed by its complexing with metallothionein. Zinc is then thought to be transferred from metallothionein to thymulin. Immunostaining, utilizing an antithymulin antibody and a fluoresceinated goat anti-rabbit second antibody, confirms the presence of thymulin in TEC and its dependence on zinc. Upon stimulation, thymulin is then secreted. Known stimulants for thymulin include progesterone, dexamethasone, estradiol, testosterone, and prolactin. None of these secretagogues increase zinc uptake, suggesting the priming of the zinc-thymulin complex is unrelated to the regulation of its secretion.« less

  19. INTERACTION OF LASER RADIATION WITH MATTER: Influence of Ca and Pb impurities on the bulk optical strength of ultrapure NaCl and KCl crystals

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Vinogradov, An V.; Voszka, R.; Kovalev, Valerii I.; Faĭzullov, F. S.; Janszky, J.

    1987-06-01

    A significant increase (by a factor of about 3) of the bulk damage threshold in the case of interaction of CO2 laser radiation pulses with ultrapure NaCl and KCl crystals grown in a reactive atmosphere was observed on introduction of divalent metal ions Ca and Pb in concentrations of 10-5-10-6 mol/mol. Impurities were introduced in concentrations of 10-8-10-3 and 2×10-7-10-4 mol/mol into the melts of KCl and NaCl, respectively. The concentration of other impurities (including OH) did not exceed ~10-6 mol/mol. A physical model was developed to account for the observed dependence on the basis of an analogy between a system of colloidal particles and F centers in a crystal and a liquid-vapor system.

  20. PDGF activates K-Cl cotransport through phosphoinositide 3-kinase and protein phosphatase-1 in primary cultures of vascular smooth muscle cells.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Jing; Lauf, Peter K; Adragna, Norma C

    2005-07-15

    K-Cl cotransport (K-Cl COT, KCC) is an electroneutrally coupled movement of K and Cl present in most cells. In this work, we studied the pathways of regulation of K-Cl COT by platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) in primary cultures of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs). Wortmannin and LY 294002 blocked the PDGF-induced K-Cl COT activation, indicating that the phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI 3-K) pathway is involved. However, PD 98059 had no effect on K-Cl COT activation by PDGF, suggesting that the mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway is not involved under the experimental conditions tested. Involvement of phosphatases was also examined. Sodium orthovanadate, cyclosporin A and okadaic acid had no effect on PDGF-stimulated K-Cl COT. Calyculin A blocked the PDGF-stimulated K-Cl COT by 60%, suggesting that protein phosphatase-1 (PP-1) is a mediator in the PDGF signaling pathway/s. In conclusion, our results indicate that the PDGF-mediated pathways of K-Cl COT regulation involve the signaling molecules PI 3-K and PP-1.

  1. Inositol phosphates influence the membrane bound Ca/sup 2 +//Mg/sup 2 +/ stimulated ATPase from human erythrocyte membranes

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Kester, M.; Ekholm, J.; Kumar, R.

    1986-03-01

    The modulation by exogenous inositol phosphates of the membrane Ca/sup 2 +//Mg/sup 2 +/ ATPase from saponin/EGTA lysed human erythrocytes was determined in a buffer (pH 7.6) containing histidine, 80 mM, MgCl/sub 2/, 3.3 mM, NaCl, 74 mM, KCl, 30 mM, Na/sub 2/ATP, 2.3 mM, ouabain, 0.83 mM, with variable amounts of CaCl/sub 2/ and EGTA. The ATPase assay was linear with time at 44/sup 0/C. The inositol phosphates were commercially obtained and were also prepared from /sup 32/P labeled rabbit platelet inositol phospholipids. Inositol triphosphate (IP/sub 3/) elevated the Ca/sup 2 +//Mg/sup 2 +/ ATPase activity over basal levelsmore » in a dose, time, and calcium dependent manner and were increased up to 85% of control values. Activities for the Na/sup +//K/sup +/-ATPase and a Mg/sup 2 +/ ATPase were not effected by IP/sub 3/. Ca/sup 2 +//Mg/sup 2 +/APTase activity with IP/sub 2/ or IP/sub 3/ could be synergistically elevated with calmodulin addition. The activation of the ATPase with IP/sub 3/ was calcium dependent in a range from .001 to .02 mM. The apparent Km and Vmax values were determined for IP/sub 3/ stimulated Ca/sup 2 +//Mg/sup 2 +/ ATPase.« less

  2. KCl cotransport regulation and protein kinase G in cultured vascular smooth muscle cells.

    PubMed

    Adragna, N C; Zhang, J; Di Fulvio, M; Lincoln, T M; Lauf, P K

    2002-05-15

    K-Cl cotransport is activated by vasodilators in erythrocytes and vascular smooth muscle cells and its regulation involves putative kinase/phosphatase cascades. N-ethylmaleimide (NEM) activates the system presumably by inhibiting a protein kinase. Nitrovasodilators relax smooth muscle via cGMP-dependent activation of protein kinase G (PKG), a regulator of membrane channels and transporters. We investigated whether PKG regulates K-Cl cotransport activity or mRNA expression in normal, PKG-deficient-vector-only-transfected (PKG-) and PKG-catalytic-domain-transfected (PKG+) rat aortic smooth muscle cells. K-Cl cotransport was calculated as the Cl-dependent Rb influx, and mRNA was determined by semiquantitative RT-PCR. Baseline K-Cl cotransport was higher in PKG+ than in PKG- cells (p <0.01). At 0.5 mM, NEM stimulated K-Cl cotransport by 5-fold in PKG- but not in PKG+ cells. However, NEM was more potent although less effective to activate K-Cl cotransport in normal (passage 1-3) and PKG+ than in PKG- cells. In PKG- cells, [(dihydroindenyl) oxy] alkanoic acid (300 mM) but not furosemide (1 mM) inhibited K-Cl cotransport. Furthermore, no difference in K-Cl cotransport mRNA expression was observed between these cells. In conclusion, this study shows that manipulation of PKG expression in vascular smooth muscle cells affects K-Cl cotransport activity and its activation by NEM.

  3. SK2 channels regulate mitochondrial respiration and mitochondrial Ca2+ uptake.

    PubMed

    Honrath, Birgit; Matschke, Lina; Meyer, Tammo; Magerhans, Lena; Perocchi, Fabiana; Ganjam, Goutham K; Zischka, Hans; Krasel, Cornelius; Gerding, Albert; Bakker, Barbara M; Bünemann, Moritz; Strack, Stefan; Decher, Niels; Culmsee, Carsten; Dolga, Amalia M

    2017-05-01

    Mitochondrial calcium ([Ca 2+ ] m ) overload and changes in mitochondrial metabolism are key players in neuronal death. Small conductance calcium-activated potassium (SK) channels provide protection in different paradigms of neuronal cell death. Recently, SK channels were identified at the inner mitochondrial membrane, however, their particular role in the observed neuroprotection remains unclear. Here, we show a potential neuroprotective mechanism that involves attenuation of [Ca 2+ ] m uptake upon SK channel activation as detected by time lapse mitochondrial Ca 2+ measurements with the Ca 2+ -binding mitochondria-targeted aequorin and FRET-based [Ca 2+ ] m probes. High-resolution respirometry revealed a reduction in mitochondrial respiration and complex I activity upon pharmacological activation and overexpression of mitochondrial SK2 channels resulting in reduced mitochondrial ROS formation. Overexpression of mitochondria-targeted SK2 channels enhanced mitochondrial resilience against neuronal death, and this effect was inhibited by overexpression of a mitochondria-targeted dominant-negative SK2 channel. These findings suggest that SK channels provide neuroprotection by reducing [Ca 2+ ] m uptake and mitochondrial respiration in conditions, where sustained mitochondrial damage determines progressive neuronal death.

  4. SK2 channels regulate mitochondrial respiration and mitochondrial Ca2+ uptake

    PubMed Central

    Honrath, Birgit; Matschke, Lina; Meyer, Tammo; Magerhans, Lena; Perocchi, Fabiana; Ganjam, Goutham K; Zischka, Hans; Krasel, Cornelius; Gerding, Albert; Bakker, Barbara M; Bünemann, Moritz; Strack, Stefan; Decher, Niels; Culmsee, Carsten; Dolga, Amalia M

    2017-01-01

    Mitochondrial calcium ([Ca2+]m) overload and changes in mitochondrial metabolism are key players in neuronal death. Small conductance calcium-activated potassium (SK) channels provide protection in different paradigms of neuronal cell death. Recently, SK channels were identified at the inner mitochondrial membrane, however, their particular role in the observed neuroprotection remains unclear. Here, we show a potential neuroprotective mechanism that involves attenuation of [Ca2+]m uptake upon SK channel activation as detected by time lapse mitochondrial Ca2+ measurements with the Ca2+-binding mitochondria-targeted aequorin and FRET-based [Ca2+]m probes. High-resolution respirometry revealed a reduction in mitochondrial respiration and complex I activity upon pharmacological activation and overexpression of mitochondrial SK2 channels resulting in reduced mitochondrial ROS formation. Overexpression of mitochondria-targeted SK2 channels enhanced mitochondrial resilience against neuronal death, and this effect was inhibited by overexpression of a mitochondria-targeted dominant-negative SK2 channel. These findings suggest that SK channels provide neuroprotection by reducing [Ca2+]m uptake and mitochondrial respiration in conditions, where sustained mitochondrial damage determines progressive neuronal death. PMID:28282037

  5. Bumetanide hyperpolarizes Madin-Darby canine kidney cells and enhances cellular gentamicin uptake via elevating cytosolic Ca2+ thus facilitating intermediate conductance Ca2+-activated potassium channels

    PubMed Central

    Wang, Tian; Yang, Yu-qin; Karasawa, Takatoshi; Wang, Qi; Phillips, Amanda; Guan, Bing-Cai; Ma, Ke-Tao; Jiang, Meiyan; Xie, Ding-Hua; Steyger, Peter S.; Jiang, Zhi-Gen

    2012-01-01

    Loop diuretics such as bumetanide and furosemide enhance aminoglycoside ototoxicity when co-administered to patients and animal models. The underlying mechanism(s) is poorly understood. We investigated the effect of these diuretics on cellular uptake of aminoglycosides, using Texas Red-tagged gentamicin (GTTR), and intracellular/whole-cell recordings of Madin-Darby Canine kidney (MDCK) cells. We found that bumetanide and furosemide concentration-dependently enhanced cytoplasmic GTTR fluorescence by ~60%. This enhancement was suppressed by La3+, a non-selective cation channel (NSCC) blocker, and by K+ channel blockers Ba2+ and clotrimazole, but not by tetraethylammonium (TEA), 4-aminopyridine (4-AP) or glipizide, nor by Cl− channel blockers diphenylamine-2-carboxylic acid (DPC), niflumic acid (NFA), and CFTRinh-172. Bumetanide and furosemide hyperpolarized MDCK cells by ~14 mV, increased whole-cell I/V slope conductance; the bumetanide-induced net current I/V showed a reversal potential (Vr) ~−80 mV. Bumetanide-induced hyperpolarization and I/V change was suppressed by Ba2+ or clotrimazole, and absent in elevated [Ca2+]i, but not affected by apamin, 4-AP, TEA, glipizide, DPC, NFA or CFTRinh-172. Bumetanide and furosemide stimulated a surge of Fluo-4-indicated cytosolic Ca2+. Ba2+ and clotrimazole alone depolarized cells by ~18 mV and reduced I/V slope with a net current Vr near −85 mV, and reduced GTTR uptake by ~20%. La3+ alone hyperpolarized the cells by ~−14 mV, reduced the I/V slope with a net current Vr near −10 mV, and inhibited GTTR uptake by ~50%. In the presence of La3+, bumetanide caused negligible potential or I/V change. We conclude that NSCCs constitute a major cell entry pathway for cationic aminoglycosides; bumetanide enhances aminoglycoside uptake by hyperpolarizing cells that increases cation influx driving force; and bumetanide-induced hyperpolarization is caused by elevating the intracellular Ca2+ and thus a facilitation of the

  6. Bumetanide hyperpolarizes madin-darby canine kidney cells and enhances cellular gentamicin uptake by elevating cytosolic Ca(2+) thus facilitating intermediate conductance Ca(2+)--activated potassium channels.

    PubMed

    Wang, Tian; Yang, Yu-Qin; Karasawa, Takatoshi; Wang, Qi; Phillips, Amanda; Guan, Bing-Cai; Ma, Ke-Tao; Jiang, Meiyan; Xie, Ding-Hua; Steyger, Peter S; Jiang, Zhi-Gen

    2013-04-01

    Loop diuretics such as bumetanide and furosemide enhance aminoglycoside ototoxicity when co-administered to patients and animal models. The underlying mechanism(s) is poorly understood. We investigated the effect of these diuretics on cellular uptake of aminoglycosides, using Texas Red-tagged gentamicin (GTTR), and intracellular/whole-cell recordings of Madin-Darby canine kidney (MDCK) cells. We found that bumetanide and furosemide dose-dependently enhanced cytoplasmic GTTR fluorescence by ~60 %. This enhancement was suppressed by La(3+), a non-selective cation channel (NSCC) blocker, and by K(+) channel blockers Ba(2+) and clotrimazole, but not by tetraethylammonium (TEA), 4-aminopyridine (4-AP) or glipizide, nor by Cl(-) channel blockers diphenylamine-2-carboxylic acid (DPC), niflumic acid (NFA), and CFTRinh-172. Bumetanide and furosemide hyperpolarized MDCK cells by ~14 mV, increased whole-cell I/V slope conductance; the bumetanide-induced net current I/V showed a reversal potential (V r) ~-80 mV. Bumetanide-induced hyperpolarization and I/V change was suppressed by Ba(2+) or clotrimazole, and absent in elevated [Ca(2+)]i, but was not affected by apamin, 4-AP, TEA, glipizide, DPC, NFA, or CFTRinh-172. Bumetanide and furosemide stimulated a surge of Fluo-4-indicated cytosolic Ca(2+). Ba(2+) and clotrimazole alone depolarized cells by ~18 mV and reduced I/V slope with a net current V r near -85 mV, and reduced GTTR uptake by ~20 %. La(3+) alone hyperpolarized the cells by ~-14 mV, reduced the I/V slope with a net current V r near -10 mV, and inhibited GTTR uptake by ~50 %. In the presence of La(3+), bumetanide-caused negligible change in potential or I/V. We conclude that NSCCs constitute a major cell entry pathway for cationic aminoglycosides; bumetanide enhances aminoglycoside uptake by hyperpolarizing cells that increases the cation influx driving force; and bumetanide-induced hyperpolarization is caused by elevating intracellular Ca(2+) and thus facilitating

  7. Stimulation-evoked Ca2+ signals in astrocytic processes at hippocampal CA3-CA1 synapses of adult mice are modulated by glutamate and ATP.

    PubMed

    Tang, Wannan; Szokol, Karolina; Jensen, Vidar; Enger, Rune; Trivedi, Chintan A; Hvalby, Øivind; Helm, P Johannes; Looger, Loren L; Sprengel, Rolf; Nagelhus, Erlend A

    2015-02-18

    To date, it has been difficult to reveal physiological Ca(2+) events occurring within the fine astrocytic processes of mature animals. The objective of the study was to explore whether neuronal activity evokes astrocytic Ca(2+) signals at glutamatergic synapses of adult mice. We stimulated the Schaffer collateral/commissural fibers in acute hippocampal slices from adult mice transduced with the genetically encoded Ca(2+) indicator GCaMP5E driven by the glial fibrillary acidic protein promoter. Two-photon imaging revealed global stimulation-evoked astrocytic Ca(2+) signals with distinct latencies, rise rates, and amplitudes in fine processes and somata. Specifically, the Ca(2+) signals in the processes were faster and of higher amplitude than those in the somata. A combination of P2 purinergic and group I/II metabotropic glutamate receptor (mGluR) antagonists reduced the amplitude of the Ca(2+) transients by 30-40% in both astrocytic compartments. Blockage of the mGluRs alone only modestly reduced the magnitude of the stimulation-evoked Ca(2+) signals in processes and failed to affect the somatic Ca(2+) response. Local application of group I or I/II mGluR agonists or adenosine triphosphate (ATP) elicited global astrocytic Ca(2+) signals that mimicked the stimulation-evoked astrocytic Ca(2+) responses. We conclude that stimulation-evoked Ca(2+) signals in astrocytic processes at CA3-CA1 synapses of adult mice (1) differ from those in astrocytic somata and (2) are modulated by glutamate and ATP. Copyright © 2015 the authors 0270-6474/15/353016-06$15.00/0.

  8. Possible involvement of transient receptor potential ankyrin 1 in Ca2+ signaling via T-type Ca2+ channel in mouse sensory neurons.

    PubMed

    Nishizawa, Yuki; Takahashi, Kenji; Oguma, Naoko; Tominaga, Makoto; Ohta, Toshio

    2018-05-01

    T-type Ca 2+ channels and TRPA1 are expressed in sensory neurons and both are associated with pain transmission, but their functional interaction is unclear. Here we demonstrate that pharmacological evidence of the functional relation between T-type Ca 2+ channels and TRPA1 in mouse sensory neurons. Low concentration of KCl at 15 mM (15K) evoked increases of intracellular Ca 2+ concentration ([Ca 2+ ] i ), which were suppressed by selective T-type Ca 2+ channel blockers. RT-PCR showed that mouse sensory neurons expressed all subtypes of T-type Ca 2+ channel. The magnitude of 15K-induced [Ca 2+ ] i increase was significantly larger in neurons sensitive to allylisothiocyanate (AITC, a TRPA1 agonist) than in those insensitive to it, and in TRPA1 -/- mouse sensory neurons. TRPA1 blockers diminished the [Ca 2+ ] i responses to 15K in neurons sensitive to AITC, but failed to inhibit 40 mM KCl-induced [Ca 2+ ] i increases even in AITC-sensitive neurons. TRPV1 blockers did not inhibit the 15K-induced [Ca 2+ ] i increase regardless of the sensitivity to capsaicin. [Ca 2+ ] i responses to TRPA1 agonist were enhanced by co-application with 15K. These pharmacological data suggest the possibility of functional interaction between T-type Ca 2+ channels and TRPA1 in sensory neurons. Since TRPA1 channel is activated by intracellular Ca 2+ , we hypothesize that Ca 2+ entered via T-type Ca 2+ channel activation may further stimulate TRPA1, resulting in an enhancement of nociceptive signaling. Thus, T-type Ca 2+ channel may be a potential target for TRPA1-related pain. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  9. Regional acidosis locally inhibits but remotely stimulates Ca2+ waves in ventricular myocytes

    PubMed Central

    Ford, Kerrie L.; Moorhouse, Emma L.; Bortolozzi, Mario; Richards, Mark A.; Swietach, Pawel; Vaughan-Jones, Richard D.

    2017-01-01

    Abstract Aims Spontaneous Ca2+ waves in cardiomyocytes are potentially arrhythmogenic. A powerful controller of Ca2+ waves is the cytoplasmic H+ concentration ([H+]i), which fluctuates spatially and temporally in conditions such as myocardial ischaemia/reperfusion. H+-control of Ca2+ waves is poorly understood. We have therefore investigated how [H+]i co-ordinates their initiation and frequency. Methods and results Spontaneous Ca2+ waves were imaged (fluo-3) in rat isolated ventricular myocytes, subjected to modest Ca2+-overload. Whole-cell intracellular acidosis (induced by acetate-superfusion) stimulated wave frequency. Pharmacologically blocking sarcolemmal Na+/H+ exchange (NHE1) prevented this stimulation, unveiling inhibition by H+. Acidosis also increased Ca2+ wave velocity. Restricting acidosis to one end of a myocyte, using a microfluidic device, inhibited Ca2+ waves in the acidic zone (consistent with ryanodine receptor inhibition), but stimulated wave emergence elsewhere in the cell. This remote stimulation was absent when NHE1 was selectively inhibited in the acidic zone. Remote stimulation depended on a locally evoked, NHE1-driven rise of [Na+]i that spread rapidly downstream. Conclusion Acidosis influences Ca2+ waves via inhibitory Hi+ and stimulatory Nai+ signals (the latter facilitating intracellular Ca2+-loading through modulation of sarcolemmal Na+/Ca2+ exchange activity). During spatial [H+]i-heterogeneity, Hi+-inhibition dominates in acidic regions, while rapid Nai+ diffusion stimulates waves in downstream, non-acidic regions. Local acidosis thus simultaneously inhibits and stimulates arrhythmogenic Ca2+-signalling in the same myocyte. If the principle of remote H+-stimulation of Ca2+ waves also applies in multicellular myocardium, it raises the possibility of electrical disturbances being driven remotely by adjacent ischaemic areas, which are known to be intensely acidic. PMID:28339694

  10. Regional acidosis locally inhibits but remotely stimulates Ca2+ waves in ventricular myocytes.

    PubMed

    Ford, Kerrie L; Moorhouse, Emma L; Bortolozzi, Mario; Richards, Mark A; Swietach, Pawel; Vaughan-Jones, Richard D

    2017-07-01

    Spontaneous Ca2+ waves in cardiomyocytes are potentially arrhythmogenic. A powerful controller of Ca2+ waves is the cytoplasmic H+ concentration ([H+]i), which fluctuates spatially and temporally in conditions such as myocardial ischaemia/reperfusion. H+-control of Ca2+ waves is poorly understood. We have therefore investigated how [H+]i co-ordinates their initiation and frequency. Spontaneous Ca2+ waves were imaged (fluo-3) in rat isolated ventricular myocytes, subjected to modest Ca2+-overload. Whole-cell intracellular acidosis (induced by acetate-superfusion) stimulated wave frequency. Pharmacologically blocking sarcolemmal Na+/H+ exchange (NHE1) prevented this stimulation, unveiling inhibition by H+. Acidosis also increased Ca2+ wave velocity. Restricting acidosis to one end of a myocyte, using a microfluidic device, inhibited Ca2+ waves in the acidic zone (consistent with ryanodine receptor inhibition), but stimulated wave emergence elsewhere in the cell. This remote stimulation was absent when NHE1 was selectively inhibited in the acidic zone. Remote stimulation depended on a locally evoked, NHE1-driven rise of [Na+]i that spread rapidly downstream. Acidosis influences Ca2+ waves via inhibitory Hi+ and stimulatory Nai+ signals (the latter facilitating intracellular Ca2+-loading through modulation of sarcolemmal Na+/Ca2+ exchange activity). During spatial [H+]i-heterogeneity, Hi+-inhibition dominates in acidic regions, while rapid Nai+ diffusion stimulates waves in downstream, non-acidic regions. Local acidosis thus simultaneously inhibits and stimulates arrhythmogenic Ca2+-signalling in the same myocyte. If the principle of remote H+-stimulation of Ca2+ waves also applies in multicellular myocardium, it raises the possibility of electrical disturbances being driven remotely by adjacent ischaemic areas, which are known to be intensely acidic. © The Author 2017. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the European Society of Cardiology.

  11. The inability of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase activation to stimulate GLUT4 translocation indicates additional signaling pathways are required for insulin-stimulated glucose uptake.

    PubMed

    Isakoff, S J; Taha, C; Rose, E; Marcusohn, J; Klip, A; Skolnik, E Y

    1995-10-24

    Recent experimental evidence has focused attention to the role of two molecules, insulin receptor substrate 1 (IRS-1) and phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3-kinase), in linking the insulin receptor to glucose uptake; IRS-1 knockout mice are insulin resistant, and pharmacological inhibitors of PI3-kinase block insulin-stimulated glucose uptake. To investigate the role of PI3-kinase and IRS-1 in insulin-stimulated glucose uptake we examined whether stimulation of insulin-sensitive cells with platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) or with interleukin 4 (IL-4) stimulates glucose uptake; the activated PDGF receptor (PDGFR) directly binds and activates PI3-kinase, whereas the IL-4 receptor (IL-4R) activates PI3-kinase via IRS-1 or the IRS-1-related molecule 4PS. We found that stimulation of 3T3-L1 adipocytes with PDGF resulted in tyrosine phosphorylation of the PDGFR and activation of PI3-kinase in these cells. To examine whether IL-4 stimulates glucose uptake, L6 myoblasts were engineered to overexpress GLUT4 as well as both chains of the IL-4R (L6/IL-4R/GLUT4); when these L6/IL-4R/GLUT4 myoblasts were stimulated with IL-4, IRS-1 became tyrosine phosphorylated and associated with PI3-kinase. Although PDGF and IL-4 can activate PI3-kinase in the respective cell lines, they do not possess insulin's ability to stimulate glucose uptake and GLUT4 translocation to the plasma membrane. These findings indicate that activation of PI3-kinase is not sufficient to stimulate GLUT4 translocation to the plasma membrane. We postulate that activation of a second signaling pathway by insulin, distinct from PI3-kinase, is necessary for the stimulation of glucose uptake in insulin-sensitive cells.

  12. Effect of glycogen synthase overexpression on insulin-stimulated muscle glucose uptake and storage.

    PubMed

    Fogt, Donovan L; Pan, Shujia; Lee, Sukho; Ding, Zhenping; Scrimgeour, Angus; Lawrence, John C; Ivy, John L

    2004-03-01

    Insulin-stimulated muscle glucose uptake is inversely associated with the muscle glycogen concentration. To investigate whether this association is a cause and effect relationship, we compared insulin-stimulated muscle glucose uptake in noncontracted and postcontracted muscle of GSL3-transgenic and wild-type mice. GSL3-transgenic mice overexpress a constitutively active form of glycogen synthase, which results in an abundant storage of muscle glycogen. Muscle contraction was elicited by in situ electrical stimulation of the sciatic nerve. Right gastrocnemii from GSL3-transgenic and wild-type mice were subjected to 30 min of electrical stimulation followed by hindlimb perfusion of both hindlimbs. Thirty minutes of contraction significantly reduced muscle glycogen concentration in wild-type (49%) and transgenic (27%) mice, although transgenic mice retained 168.8 +/- 20.5 micromol/g glycogen compared with 17.7 +/- 2.6 micromol/g glycogen for wild-type mice. Muscle of transgenic and wild-type mice demonstrated similar pre- (3.6 +/- 0.3 and 3.9 +/- 0.6 micromol.g(-1).h(-1) for transgenic and wild-type, respectively) and postcontraction (7.9 +/- 0.4 and 7.0 +/- 0.4 micromol.g(-1).h(-1) for transgenic and wild-type, respectively) insulin-stimulated glucose uptakes. However, the [14C]glucose incorporated into glycogen was greater in noncontracted (151%) and postcontracted (157%) transgenic muscle vs. muscle of corresponding wild-type mice. These results indicate that glycogen synthase activity is not rate limiting for insulin-stimulated glucose uptake in skeletal muscle and that the inverse relationship between muscle glycogen and insulin-stimulated glucose uptake is an association, not a cause and effect relationship.

  13. Increased Ca++ uptake by erythrocytes infected with malaria parasites: Evidence for exported proteins and novel inhibitors.

    PubMed

    Kushwaha, Ambuj K; Apolis, Liana; Ito, Daisuke; Desai, Sanjay A

    2018-05-03

    Malaria parasites export many proteins into their host erythrocytes and increase membrane permeability to diverse solutes. Although most solutes use a broad-selectivity channel known as the plasmodial surface anion channel, increased Ca ++ uptake is mediated by a distinct, poorly characterised mechanism that appears to be essential for the intracellular parasite. Here, we examined infected cell Ca ++ uptake with a kinetic fluorescence assay and the virulent human pathogen, Plasmodium falciparum. Cell surface labelling with N-hydroxysulfosuccinimide esters revealed differing effects on transport into infected and uninfected cells, indicating that Ca ++ uptake at the infected cell surface is mediated by new or altered proteins at the host membrane. Conditional knockdown of PTEX, a translocon for export of parasite proteins into the host cell, significantly reduced infected cell Ca ++ permeability, suggesting involvement of parasite-encoded proteins trafficked to the host membrane. A high-throughput chemical screen identified the first Ca ++ transport inhibitors active against Plasmodium-infected cells. These novel chemical scaffolds inhibit both uptake and parasite growth; improved in vitro potency at reduced free [Ca ++ ] is consistent with parasite killing specifically via action on one or more Ca ++ transporters. These inhibitors should provide mechanistic insights into malaria parasite Ca ++ transport and may be starting points for new antimalarial drugs. © 2018 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

  14. Protoplasmic Swelling as a Symptom of Freezing Injury in Onion Bulb Cells 1

    PubMed Central

    Arora, Rajeev; Palta, Jiwan P.

    1986-01-01

    Freezing injury, in onion bulb tissue, is known to cause enhanced K+ efflux accompanied by a small but significant loss of Ca2+ following incipient freezing injury and swelling of protoplasm during the postthaw secondary injury. The protoplasmic swelling of the cell is thought to be caused by the passive influx of extracellular K+ into the cell followed by water uptake. Using outer epidermal layer of unfrozen onion bulb scales (Allium cepa L. cv Big Red), we were able to stimulate the irreversible freezing injury symptoms, by bathing epidermal cells in 50 millimolar KCl. These symptoms were prevented by adding 20 millimolar CaCl2 to the extracellular KCl solution. Our results provide evidence that loss of cellular Ca2+ plays an important role in the initiation and the progression of freezing injury. Images Fig. 1 PMID:16665083

  15. Increased Energy Demand during Adrenergic Receptor Stimulation Contributes to Ca(2+) Wave Generation.

    PubMed

    Bovo, Elisa; Mazurek, Stefan R; de Tombe, Pieter P; Zima, Aleksey V

    2015-10-20

    While β-adrenergic receptor (β-AR) stimulation ensures adequate cardiac output during stress, it can also trigger life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias. We have previously shown that proarrhythmic Ca(2+) waves during β-AR stimulation temporally coincide with augmentation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that increased energy demand during β-AR stimulation plays an important role in mitochondrial ROS production and Ca(2+)-wave generation in rabbit ventricular myocytes. We found that β-AR stimulation with isoproterenol (0.1 μM) decreased the mitochondrial redox potential and the ratio of reduced to oxidated glutathione. As a result, β-AR stimulation increased mitochondrial ROS production. These metabolic changes induced by isoproterenol were associated with increased sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) Ca(2+) leak and frequent diastolic Ca(2+) waves. Inhibition of cell contraction with the myosin ATPase inhibitor blebbistatin attenuated oxidative stress as well as spontaneous SR Ca(2+) release events during β-AR stimulation. Furthermore, we found that oxidative stress induced by β-AR stimulation caused the formation of disulfide bonds between two ryanodine receptor (RyR) subunits, referred to as intersubunit cross-linking. Preventing RyR cross-linking with N-ethylmaleimide decreased the propensity of Ca(2+) waves induced by β-AR stimulation. These data suggest that increased energy demand during sustained β-AR stimulation weakens mitochondrial antioxidant defense, causing ROS release into the cytosol. By inducing RyR intersubunit cross-linking, ROS can increase SR Ca(2+) leak to the critical level that can trigger proarrhythmic Ca(2+) waves. Copyright © 2015 Biophysical Society. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  16. Transfer of 45Ca and 36Cl at the blood-nerve barrier of the sciatic nerve in rats fed low or high calcium diets

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Wadhwani, K.C.; Murphy, V.A.; Rapoport, S.I.

    1991-04-01

    Unidirectional fluxes of 45Ca, 36Cl, and of (3H)mannitol from blood into the sciatic nerve and cerebral cortex were determined from 5- and 15-min uptakes of these tracers after an intravenous (i.v.) bolus injection in awake rats. Rats were fed diets for 8 wk, that had either a low (0.01% wt/wt), normal (0.67%), or high (3%) Ca content. Plasma (Ca) was 32% less and 11% more in rats fed low (LOCA) and high Ca diets (HICA), respectively, than in rats fed a normal Ca diet (CONT). The mean permeability-surface area product (PA) of 45Ca at the blood-nerve barrier was about eightfoldmore » higher than at the blood-brain barrier in the same animals and did not differ significantly between groups (greater than 0.05). Mean PA ratios of 45Ca/36Cl for the blood-nerve and blood-brain barriers in CONT rats, 0.52 {plus minus} 0.04 and 0.40 {plus minus} 0.02, respectively, were not significantly different from corresponding ratios in LOCA and HICA groups, and corresponded to the aqueous limiting diffusion ratio (0.45). The authors results show no evidence for concentration-dependent transport of Ca over a plasma (Ca) range of 0.8-1.4 mmol/liter at the blood-nerve barrier of the rat peripheral nerve, and suggest that Ca and Cl exchange slowly between nerve and blood via paracellular pathways.« less

  17. Molecular dynamics study of structure and vibrational spectra at zwitterionoic lipid/aqueous KCl, NaCl, and CaCl2 solution interfaces

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ishiyama, Tatsuya; Shirai, Shinnosuke; Okumura, Tomoaki; Morita, Akihiro

    2018-06-01

    Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations of KCl, NaCl, and CaCl2 solution/dipalmytoylphosphatidylcholine lipid interfaces were performed to analyze heterodyne-detected vibrational sum frequency generation (HD-VSFG) spectra in relation to the interfacial water structure. The present MD simulation well reproduces the experimental spectra and elucidates a specific cation effect on the interfacial structure. The K+, Na+, and Ca2+ cation species penetrate in the lipid layer more than the anions in this order, due to the electrostatic interaction with negative polar groups of lipid, and the electric double layer between the cations and anions cancels the intrinsic orientation of water at the water/lipid interface. These mechanisms explain the HD-VSFG spectrum of the water/lipid interface and its spectral perturbation by adding the ions. The lipid monolayer reverses the order of surface preference of the cations at the solution/lipid interface from that at the solution/air interface.

  18. Nanosecond UV lasers stimulate transient Ca2+ elevations in human hNT astrocytes.

    PubMed

    Raos, B J; Graham, E S; Unsworth, C P

    2017-06-01

    Astrocytes respond to various stimuli resulting in intracellular Ca 2+ signals that can propagate through organized functional networks. Recent literature calls for the development of techniques that can stimulate astrocytes in a fast and highly localized manner to emulate more closely the characteristics of astrocytic Ca 2+ signals in vivo. In this article we demonstrate, for the first time, how nanosecond UV lasers are capable of reproducibly stimulating Ca 2+ transients in human hNT astrocytes. We report that laser pulses with a beam energy of 4-29 µJ generate transient increases in cytosolic Ca 2+ . These Ca 2+ transients then propagate to adjacent astrocytes as intercellular Ca 2+ waves. We propose that nanosecond laser stimulation provides a valuable tool for enabling the study of Ca 2+ dynamics in human astrocytes at both a single cell and network level. Compared to previously developed techniques nanosecond laser stimulation has the advantage of not requiring loading of photo-caged or -sensitising agents, is non-contact, enables stimulation with a high spatiotemporal resolution and is comparatively cost effective.

  19. Suppression of Arrhythmia by Enhancing Mitochondrial Ca2+ Uptake in Catecholaminergic Ventricular Tachycardia Models.

    PubMed

    Schweitzer, Maria K; Wilting, Fabiola; Sedej, Simon; Dreizehnter, Lisa; Dupper, Nathan J; Tian, Qinghai; Moretti, Alessandra; My, Ilaria; Kwon, Ohyun; Priori, Silvia G; Laugwitz, Karl-Ludwig; Storch, Ursula; Lipp, Peter; Breit, Andreas; Mederos Y Schnitzler, Michael; Gudermann, Thomas; Schredelseker, Johann

    2017-12-01

    Cardiovascular disease-related deaths frequently arise from arrhythmias, but treatment options are limited due to perilous side effects of commonly used antiarrhythmic drugs. Cardiac rhythmicity strongly depends on cardiomyocyte Ca 2+ handling and prevalent cardiac diseases are causally associated with perturbations in intracellular Ca 2+ handling. Therefore, intracellular Ca 2+ transporters are lead candidate structures for novel and safer antiarrhythmic therapies. Mitochondria and mitochondrial Ca 2+ transport proteins are important regulators of cardiac Ca 2+ handling. Here we evaluated the potential of pharmacological activation of mitochondrial Ca 2+ uptake for the treatment of cardiac arrhythmia. To this aim,we tested substances that enhance mitochondrial Ca 2+ uptake for their ability to suppress arrhythmia in a murine model for ryanodine receptor 2 (RyR2)-mediated catecholaminergic polymorphic ventricular tachycardia (CPVT) in vitro and in vivo and in induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes from a CPVT patient. In freshly isolated cardiomyocytes of RyR2 R4496C/WT mice efsevin, a synthetic agonist of the voltage-dependent anion channel 2 (VDAC2) in the outer mitochondrial membrane, prevented the formation of diastolic Ca 2+ waves and spontaneous action potentials. The antiarrhythmic effect of efsevin was abolished by blockade of the mitochondrial Ca 2+ uniporter (MCU), but could be reproduced using the natural MCU activator kaempferol. Both mitochondrial Ca 2+ uptake enhancers (MiCUps), efsevin and kaempferol, significantly reduced episodes of stress-induced ventricular tachycardia in RyR2 R4496C/WT mice in vivo and abolished diastolic, arrhythmogenic Ca 2+ events in human iPSC-derived cardiomyocytes.

  20. Ceruloplasmin ferroxidase activity stimulates cellular iron uptake by a trivalent cation-specific transport mechanism

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Attieh, Z. K.; Mukhopadhyay, C. K.; Seshadri, V.; Tripoulas, N. A.; Fox, P. L.

    1999-01-01

    The balance required to maintain appropriate cellular and tissue iron levels has led to the evolution of multiple mechanisms to precisely regulate iron uptake from transferrin and low molecular weight iron chelates. A role for ceruloplasmin (Cp) in vertebrate iron metabolism is suggested by its potent ferroxidase activity catalyzing conversion of Fe2+ to Fe3+, by identification of yeast copper oxidases homologous to Cp that facilitate high affinity iron uptake, and by studies of "aceruloplasminemic" patients who have extensive iron deposits in multiple tissues. We have recently shown that Cp increases iron uptake by cultured HepG2 cells. In this report, we investigated the mechanism by which Cp stimulates cellular iron uptake. Cp stimulated the rate of non-transferrin 55Fe uptake by iron-deficient K562 cells by 2-3-fold, using a transferrin receptor-independent pathway. Induction of Cp-stimulated iron uptake by iron deficiency was blocked by actinomycin D and cycloheximide, consistent with a transcriptionally induced or regulated transporter. Cp-stimulated iron uptake was completely blocked by unlabeled Fe3+ and by other trivalent cations including Al3+, Ga3+, and Cr3+, but not by divalent cations. These results indicate that Cp utilizes a trivalent cation-specific transporter. Cp ferroxidase activity was required for iron uptake as shown by the ineffectiveness of two ferroxidase-deficient Cp preparations, copper-deficient Cp and thiomolybdate-treated Cp. We propose a model in which iron reduction and subsequent re-oxidation by Cp are essential for an iron uptake pathway with high ion specificity.

  1. Muscarinic receptor stimulation of D-aspartate uptake into human SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells is attenuated by hypoosmolarity.

    PubMed

    Foster, Daniel J; Heacock, Anne M; Fisher, Stephen K

    2010-04-01

    In addition to its function as an excitatory neurotransmitter, glutamate plays a major role as an osmolyte within the central nervous system (CNS). Accordingly, mechanisms that regulate glutamate release and uptake are of physiological importance not only during conditions in which cell volume remains constant but also when cells are subjected to hypoosmotic stress. In the present study, the ability of muscarinic cholinergic receptors (mAChRs) to regulate the uptake of glutamate (monitored as D-aspartate) into human SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells under isotonic or hypotonic conditions has been examined. In isotonic media, agonist activation of mAChRs resulted in a significant increase (250-300% of control) in the uptake of D-aspartate and, concurrently, a cellular redistribution of the excitatory amino acid transporter 3 (EAAT3) to the plasma membrane. mAChR-mediated increases in d-aspartate uptake were potently blocked by the EAAT3 inhibitor l-beta-threo-benzyl-aspartate. In hypotonic media, the ability of mAChR activation to facilitate D-aspartate uptake was significantly attenuated (40-50%), and the cellular distribution of EAAT3 was disrupted. Reduction of mAChR-stimulated D-aspartate uptake under hypoosmotic conditions could be fully reversed upon re-exposure of the cells to isotonic media. Under both isotonic and hypotonic conditions, mAChR-mediated increases in D-aspartate uptake depended on cytoskeletal integrity, protein kinase C and phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase activities, and the availability of intracellular Ca2+. In contrast, dependence on extracellular Ca2+ was observed only under isotonic conditions. The results suggest that, although the uptake of D-aspartate into SH-SY5Y cells is enhanced after mAChR activation, this process is markedly attenuated by hypoosmolarity.

  2. Ursodeoxycholic and deoxycholic acids: Differential effects on intestinal Ca(2+) uptake, apoptosis and autophagy of rat intestine.

    PubMed

    Rodríguez, Valeria A; Rivoira, María A; Pérez, Adriana del V; Marchionatti, Ana M; Tolosa de Talamoni, Nori G

    2016-02-01

    The aim of this work was to study the effect of sodium deoxycholate (NaDOC) and ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) on Ca(2+) uptake by enterocytes and the underlying mechanisms. Rats were divided into four groups: a) controls, b) treated with NaDOC, c) treated with UDCA d) treated with NaDOC and UDCA. Ca(2+) uptake was studied in enterocytes with different degrees of maturation. Apoptosis, autophagy and NO content and iNOS protein expression were evaluated. NaDOC decreased and UDCA increased Ca(2+) uptake only in mature enterocytes. The enhancement of protein expression of Fas, FasL, caspase-8 and caspase-3 activity by NaDOC indicates triggering of the apoptotic extrinsic pathway, which was blocked by UDCA. NO content and iNOS protein expression were enhanced by NaDOC, and avoided by UDCA. The increment of acidic vesicular organelles and LC3 II produced by NaDOC was also prevented by UDCA. In conclusion, the inhibitory effects of NaDOC on intestinal Ca(2+) absorption occur by decreasing the Ca(2+) uptake by mature enterocytes. NaDOC triggers apoptosis and autophagy, in part as a result of nitrosative stress. In contrast, UDCA increases the Ca(2+) uptake by mature enterocytes, and in combination with NaDOC acts as an antiapoptotic and antiautophagic agent normalizing the transcellular Ca(2+) pathway. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  3. Mitochondrial Ca2+ homeostasis during Ca2+ influx and Ca2+ release in gastric myocytes from Bufo marinus

    PubMed Central

    Drummond, Robert M; Mix, T Christian H; Tuft, Richard A; Walsh, John V; Fay, Fredric S

    2000-01-01

    The Ca2+-sensitive fluorescent indicator rhod-2 was used to monitor mitochondrial Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]m) in gastric smooth muscle cells from Bufo marinus. In some studies, fura-2 was used in combination with rhod-2, allowing simultaneous measurement of cytoplasmic Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) and [Ca2+]m, respectively. During a short train of depolarizations, which causes Ca2+ influx from the extracellular medium, there was an increase in both [Ca2+]i and [Ca2+]m. The half-time (t½) to peak for the increase in [Ca2+]m was considerably longer than the t½ to peak for the increase in [Ca2+]i. [Ca2+]m remained elevated for tens of seconds after [Ca2+]i had returned to its resting value. Stimulation with caffeine, which causes release of Ca2+ from the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR), also produced increases in both [Ca2+]i and [Ca2+]m. The values of t½ to peak for the increase in [Ca2+] in both cytoplasm and mitochondria were similar; however, [Ca2+]i returned to baseline values much faster than [Ca2+]m. Using a wide-field digital imaging microscope, changes in [Ca2+]m were monitored within individual mitochondria in situ, during stimulation of Ca2+ influx or Ca2+ release from the SR. Mitochondrial Ca2+ uptake during depolarizing stimulation caused depolarization of the mitochondrial membrane potential. The mitochondrial membrane potential recovered considerably faster than the recovery of [Ca2+]m. This study shows that Ca2+ influx from the extracellular medium and Ca2+ release from the SR are capable of increasing [Ca2+]m in smooth muscle cells. The efflux of Ca2+ from the mitochondria is a slow process and appears to be dependent upon the amount of Ca2+ in the SR. PMID:10713963

  4. Stimulation-induced Ca(2+) influx at nodes of Ranvier in mouse peripheral motor axons.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Zhongsheng; David, Gavriel

    2016-01-01

    In peripheral myelinated axons of mammalian spinal motor neurons, Ca(2+) influx was thought to occur only in pathological conditions such as ischaemia. Using Ca(2+) imaging in mouse large motor axons, we find that physiological stimulation with trains of action potentials transiently elevates axoplasmic [C(2+)] around nodes of Ranvier. These stimulation-induced [Ca(2+)] elevations require Ca(2+) influx, and are partially reduced by blocking T-type Ca(2+) channels (e.g. mibefradil) and by blocking the Na(+)/Ca(2+) exchanger (NCX), suggesting an important contribution of Ca(2+) influx via reverse-mode NCX activity. Acute disruption of paranodal myelin dramatically increases stimulation-induced [Ca(2+)] elevations around nodes by allowing activation of sub-myelin L-type (nimodipine-sensitive) Ca(2+) channels. The Ca(2+) that enters myelinated motor axons during normal activity is likely to contribute to several signalling pathways; the larger Ca(2+) influx that occurs following demyelination may contribute to the axonal degeneration that occurs in peripheral demyelinating diseases. Activity-dependent Ca(2+) signalling is well established for somata and terminals of mammalian spinal motor neurons, but not for their axons. Imaging of an intra-axonally injected fluorescent [Ca(2+)] indicator revealed that during repetitive action potential stimulation, [Ca(2+)] elevations localized to nodal regions occurred in mouse motor axons from ventral roots, phrenic nerve and intramuscular branches. These [Ca(2+)] elevations (∼ 0.1 μm with stimulation at 50 Hz, 10 s) were blocked by removal of Ca(2+) from the extracellular solution. Effects of pharmacological blockers indicated contributions from both T-type Ca(2+) channels and reverse mode Na(+)/Ca(2+) exchange (NCX). Acute disruption of paranodal myelin (by stretch or lysophosphatidylcholine) increased the stimulation-induced [Ca(2+)] elevations, which now included a prominent contribution from L-type Ca(2+) channels. These

  5. Ca2+ cycling between sarcoplasmic reticulum and mitochondria in rabbit cardiac myocytes.

    PubMed Central

    Bassani, J W; Bassani, R A; Bers, D M

    1993-01-01

    1. Shortening and intracellular Ca2+ (Ca2+i) transients were measured in isolated rabbit ventricular myocytes during paired contractures induced by rapid application of 10 mM caffeine. 2. Caffeine-induced contractures relax despite maintained presence of caffeine. In control solution, a second phasic caffeine contracture failed to appear, unless the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) was refilled by a series of electrically stimulated twitches during the interval between caffeine exposures. 3. The relaxation of caffeine-induced contractures in 0 Na(+)-0 Ca2+ solution has previously been shown to rely on mitochondrial Ca2+ uptake and sarcolemmal Ca2(+)-ATPase. Thus, a second caffeine contracture (T2) while still in 0 Na(+)-0 Ca2+ was greatly reduced compared to the first one (T1). However, the amplitude of T2 increased exponentially with the time interval, attaining a maximum of approximately 50% of T1 for an interval of 180-300 s, with a time constant (tau) of 41.2 s. Similar results were found for Ca2+i transients (tau = 45 s). 4. Inhibition of the mitochondrial Ca2+ uptake by the oxidative phosphorylation uncoupler, FCCP during T1 dramatically depressed T2. On the other hand, inhibition of the sarcolemmal Ca2(+)-ATPase (by increasing extracellular Ca2+ concentration, [Ca2+]o) resulted in increase of T2. Spermine inclusion during T1 also increased T2, possibly by an increase of mitochondrial Ca2+ uptake. 5. We conclude that Ca2+ taken up by mitochondria during the decline of T1 moves back to the SR after caffeine is removed, with a tau approximately 40 s. 6. Partial intracellular Na+ depletion by prolonged (3 min) perfusion with 0 Na(+)-0 Ca2+ solution before T1 (a) accelerated relaxation and [Ca2+]i decline during T1, and (b) slowed, but did not abolish, the recovery of T2 as the interval was increased. This effect was particularly pronounced when choline was used instead of Li+ as the Na+ substitute. 7. We further conclude that the mitochondrial Na(+)-Ca2+ antiporter

  6. Ca2+ cycling between sarcoplasmic reticulum and mitochondria in rabbit cardiac myocytes.

    PubMed

    Bassani, J W; Bassani, R A; Bers, D M

    1993-01-01

    1. Shortening and intracellular Ca2+ (Ca2+i) transients were measured in isolated rabbit ventricular myocytes during paired contractures induced by rapid application of 10 mM caffeine. 2. Caffeine-induced contractures relax despite maintained presence of caffeine. In control solution, a second phasic caffeine contracture failed to appear, unless the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) was refilled by a series of electrically stimulated twitches during the interval between caffeine exposures. 3. The relaxation of caffeine-induced contractures in 0 Na(+)-0 Ca2+ solution has previously been shown to rely on mitochondrial Ca2+ uptake and sarcolemmal Ca2(+)-ATPase. Thus, a second caffeine contracture (T2) while still in 0 Na(+)-0 Ca2+ was greatly reduced compared to the first one (T1). However, the amplitude of T2 increased exponentially with the time interval, attaining a maximum of approximately 50% of T1 for an interval of 180-300 s, with a time constant (tau) of 41.2 s. Similar results were found for Ca2+i transients (tau = 45 s). 4. Inhibition of the mitochondrial Ca2+ uptake by the oxidative phosphorylation uncoupler, FCCP during T1 dramatically depressed T2. On the other hand, inhibition of the sarcolemmal Ca2(+)-ATPase (by increasing extracellular Ca2+ concentration, [Ca2+]o) resulted in increase of T2. Spermine inclusion during T1 also increased T2, possibly by an increase of mitochondrial Ca2+ uptake. 5. We conclude that Ca2+ taken up by mitochondria during the decline of T1 moves back to the SR after caffeine is removed, with a tau approximately 40 s. 6. Partial intracellular Na+ depletion by prolonged (3 min) perfusion with 0 Na(+)-0 Ca2+ solution before T1 (a) accelerated relaxation and [Ca2+]i decline during T1, and (b) slowed, but did not abolish, the recovery of T2 as the interval was increased. This effect was particularly pronounced when choline was used instead of Li+ as the Na+ substitute. 7. We further conclude that the mitochondrial Na(+)-Ca2+ antiporter

  7. Calcium uptake in aquatic insects: influences of phylogeny and metals (Cd and Zn).

    PubMed

    Poteat, Monica D; Buchwalter, David B

    2014-04-01

    Calcium sequestration in the hypo-osmotic freshwater environment is imperative in maintaining calcium homeostasis in freshwater aquatic organisms. This uptake process is reported to have the unintended consequence of potentially toxic heavy metal (Cd, Zn) uptake in a variety of aquatic species. However, calcium uptake remains poorly understood in aquatic insects, the dominant invertebrate faunal group in most freshwater ecosystems. Here, we examined Ca uptake and interactions with heavy metals (Cd, Zn) at low ambient Ca levels (12.5 μmol l(-1)) in 12 aquatic insect species within Ephemerellidae (mayfly) and Hydropsychidae (caddisfly), two families differentially responsive to trace metal pollution. We found Ca uptake varied 70-fold across the 12 species studied. Body mass and clade (family) were found to significantly influence both Ca uptake and adsorption (P≤0.05). Zn and Cd uptake rate constants (ku) exhibited a strong correlation (r=0.96, P<0.0001), suggesting a shared transport system. Ca uptake failed to significantly correlate with either Zn or Cd ku values. Further, neither Zn nor Cd exhibited inhibitory effects toward Ca uptake. In fact, we saw evidence of modest stimulation of Ca uptake rates in some metal treatments. This work suggests that insects generally differ from other freshwater taxa in that aqueous Ca uptake does not appear to be compromised by Cd or Zn exposure. It is important to understand the trace metal and major ion physiology of aquatic insects because of their ecological importance and widespread use as ecological indicators.

  8. Precipitation of CaCO3 due to the Uptake of CO2 in Aqueous Solutions - Mechanisms and Rates

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Dietzel, M.; Purgstaller, B.; Rinder, T.; Niedermayr, A.

    2012-12-01

    In natural and man-made environments the exchange of CO2 between aqueous solutions and the atmosphere frequently induces precipitation of CaCO3 polymorphs. Liberation of gaseous CO2 is well known to induce carbonate formation and extensively studied. In contrast significant gaps of knowledge exist with respect to the combined CO2 uptake and CaCO3 formation, although it is known to be highly valid for many natural and man-made surroundings causing e.g. travertine and scaling in analogy to CO2 liberation. Recently CO2 uptake is also discussed for biomineralization issues and debated for CO2 sequestration by using alkaline residue materials. In the present study CO2 uptake and CaCO3 precipitation mechanisms and rates were experimentally studied by diffusion of CO2 through a polyethylene membrane from an inner to an outer solution containing carbonic acid and CaCl2 (10 mM), respectively. The pH of the outer solution was kept constant between 8.3 and 11.5 by pH stat. technique (25°C). At a critical Ion Activity Product (IAP) CaCO3 is formed in the outer solution. The NaOH titration curve and Ca2+ concentrations reflect CO2 uptake and CaCO3 precipitation rates. To discover the impact of a drift in pH due to CO2 uptake on CaCO3 precipitation hydrogeochemical modeling was applied. XRD, (micro)Raman pattern and SEM imaging reveal the formation of calcite and vaterite at pH 8.3 and 9, whereas at pH > 10 vaterite is additionally formed. However at a given pH the formation of individual CaCO3 polymorphs strongly depends on the CO2 uptake rate (adjusted by membrane thickness), which controls carbonate accumulation in the solution. At elevated pH of the outer solution the uptake rate of CO2 is significantly higher and less time for nucleation of CaCO3 is required compared to lower pH. Surprisingly at the total experimental time of ≈ 20 h the amount of precipitated CaCO3 is similar for all experiments. This can be explained by significant higher CaCO3 precipitation rates at

  9. Mechanism for electrosilent Ca2+ transport to cause calcification of spicules in sea urchin embryos.

    PubMed

    Yasumasu, I; Mitsunaga, K; Fujino, Y

    1985-07-01

    Embryos of the sea urchin, Hemicentrotus pulcherrimus, kept in sea water containing the calcium antagonists, diltiazem and verapamil, or an anion transport inhibitor, 4,4'-diisothiocyano-2,2'-disulfonic acid stilbene (DIDS), during a developmental period between the mesenchyme blastula and the pluteus corresponding stage, became abnormal plutei with poorly developed arms and quite small spicules. Treatment with ethacrynic acid and furosemide, inhibitors of chloride transport, during the same period of development yielded quasi-normal plutei with poor spicules and somewhat developed arms. In late gastrulae, the inhibitory effects of these calcium antagonists and DIDS on the uptake of 45Ca2+ in whole embryos were as strong as those on 45Ca deposition in spicules, whereas the effects of chloride transport inhibitors on calcium deposition in the spicules were markedly stronger than on its uptake in whole embryos. Electrosilent uptake of Ca2+ seems to be established mainly by coupled influx of chloride in the cells which mediate spicule calcification, and by concomitant influx of anions in the other cells. In swimming blastulae, 45Ca2+ uptake was inhibited by calcium antagonists and DIDS, but not by chloride transport inhibitors. Ca2+ uptake probably becomes coupled with chloride influx only in embryos in which spicule calcification occurs.

  10. 44Ca doped remineralization study on dentin by isotope microscopy.

    PubMed

    Hiraishi, N; Kobayashi, S; Yurimoto, H; Tagami, J

    2018-04-01

    The dental caries is developed as a result of an alternative course of mineral gain and loss. In order to distinguish between intrinsic Ca (tooth-derived mineral) and extrinsic Ca (solution-derived mineral) uptakes, a 44 Ca doped pH-cycling was performed using 44 Ca (a stable calcium isotope) remineralization solution. The natural abundance of 40 Ca and 44 Ca is 96.9% and 2.1%, respectively. The remineralization solution was prepared using 44 Ca to contain 1.5mmol/L CaCl 2 ( 44 Ca), 0.9mmol/L KH 2 PO 4, 130mmol/L KCl, 20mmol/L HEPES at pH 7.0. The pH-cycling was conducted on bovine root dentin daily by demineralization (pH 5.0) for 2h, incubation in 0% (control) and 0.2% NaF (900ppm fluoride) for 2h and 44 Ca doped remineralization for 20h. After 14days pH-cycling, the specimens were sectioned longitudinally. On the sectioned surface, isotope imaging of 40 Ca and 44 Ca labeled mineral distribution was observed by a high mass-resolution stigmatic secondary ion 77 (Camera IMS 1270, Gennevilliers Cedex, France). Uptake of 44 Ca was greater in intensity for the 0.2% fluoride group than the control, especially in the superficial lesions. The control group showed 40 Ca (intrinsic) distribution in the subsurface lesions and in the superficial lesions, meanwhile the fluoride group showed 40 Ca distribution limited in subsurface lesions. The total Ca ( 44 Ca+ 40 Ca) image revealed more homogeneously for the control than the fluoride group. Since the fluoride-treated surface is more acid-resistant than intrinsic dentin, alternative minerals were dissolved from the intact intrinsic lesion in the demineralization cycle. Copyright © 2018 The Academy of Dental Materials. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  11. A thermodynamic study of electroneutral K-Cl cotransport in pH- and volume-clamped low K sheep erythrocytes with normal and low internal magnesium.

    PubMed

    Lauf, P K; Adragna, N C

    1996-10-01

    Swelling-induced human erythrocyte K-Cl cotransport is membrane potential independent and capable of uphill transport. However, a complete thermodynamic analysis of basal and stimulated K-Cl cotransport, at constant cell volume, is missing. This study was performed in low K sheep red blood cells before and after reducing cellular free Mg into the nanomolar range with the divalent cation ionophore A23187 and a chelator, an intervention known to stimulate K-Cl cotransport. The anion exchange inhibitor 4,4'diisothiocyanato-2,2'disulfonic stilbene was used to clamp intracellular pH and Cl or NO3 concentrations. Cell volume was maintained constant as external and internal pH differed by more than two units. K-Cl cotransport was calculated from the K effluxes and Rb (as K congener) influxes measured in Cl and NO3, at constant internal K and external anions, and variable concentrations of extracellular Rb and internal anions, respectively. The external Rb concentration at which net K-Cl cotransport is zero was defined as flux reversal point which changed with internal pH and hence Cl. Plots of the ratio of external Rb concentrations corresponding to the flux reversal points and the internal K concentration versus the ratio of the internal and external Cl concentrations (i.e., the Donnan ratio of the transported ions) yielded slopes near unity for both control and low internal Mg cells. Thus, basal as well as low internal Mg-stimulated net K-Cl cotransport depends on the electrochemical potential gradient of KCl.

  12. Fluorine-18 fluorodeoxyglucose splenic uptake from extramedullary hematopoiesis after granulocyte colony-stimulating factor stimulation.

    PubMed

    Abdel-Dayem, H M; Rosen, G; El-Zeftawy, H; Naddaf, S; Kumar, M; Atay, S; Cacavio, A

    1999-05-01

    Two patients with sarcoma, one with recurrent osteosarcoma of the spine and the other with metastatic synovial cell sarcoma, were treated with high-dose chemotherapy that produced severe leukopenia. The patients received granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) to stimulate the bone marrow (480 mg given subcutaneously twice daily for 5 to 7 days); their responses were seen as a marked increase in peripheral leukocyte count with no change in the erythrocyte or platelet counts. The patients had fluorine-18 fluorodeoxyglucose (F-18 FDG) imaging 24 hours after the end of G-CSF treatment. Diffusely increased uptake of F-18 FDG was seen in the bone marrow in both patients. In addition, markedly increased uptake in the spleen was noted in both, indicating that the spleen was the site of extramedullary hematopoiesis. The patients had no evidence of splenic metastases. The first patient had a history of irradiation to the dorsal spine, which was less responsive to G-CSF administration than was the nonirradiated lumbar spine.

  13. Prostaglandin E2 stimulates a Ca2+-dependent K+ channel in human erythrocytes and alters cell volume and filterability.

    PubMed

    Li, Q; Jungmann, V; Kiyatkin, A; Low, P S

    1996-08-02

    To understand the mechanism by which human red blood cells (RBCs) contribute to hemostasis and thrombosis, we have examined the effects of metabolites released by activated platelets on intact RBCs. Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), a signal molecule produced by activated platelets, was observed to lower the filterability of human erythrocytes by approximately 30% at 10(-10) M. PGE2 also caused a reduction in mean cell volume of approximately 10%. The shrinkage of red cells after PGE2 treatment was confirmed by documenting a decrease in osmotic fragility and an increase in cell density following exposure to the hormone. Careful analysis, however, revealed that only approximately 15% of the erythrocytes responded to stimulation with PGE2. Examination of the cause of cell shrinkage showed that induction of a PGE2-stimulated K+ efflux pathway leading to rapid loss of cellular K+ was responsible. The PGE2-stimulated K+ loss was also observed to be Ca2+-dependent, suggesting the possible involvement of the Gardos channel. Gardos channel participation was supported by the observation that two Gardos channel inhibitors, charybdotoxin and clotrimazole, independently blocked the PGE2-stimulated K+ efflux. Further evidence for Gardos channel activation came from experiments aimed at characterizing the efflux pathway followed by the obligatory counterion. Thus, K+ efflux was readily stimulated even when NO3- was substituted for Cl-, suggesting that neither KCl cotransport nor Na/K/2Cl cotransport plays a prominent role in the PGE2-induced cell shrinkage. Further, the anion transporter band 3 was implicated as the counterion efflux route, since DIDS inhibited the PGE2-stimulated cell volume change without blocking the change in membrane potential. Taken together, we propose that release of PGE2 by activated platelets constitutes part of a mechanism by which activated platelets may recruit adjacent erythrocytes to assist in clot formation.

  14. Glucocorticoid interactions with ethanol effects on depolarization-induced calcium influx in brain synaptosomes.

    PubMed

    Sze, P Y

    1996-04-01

    Depolarization-induced Ca2+ influx in brain synaptosomes is known to be inhibited by ethanol and stimulated by glucocorticoids. The present study was undertaken to characterize the interactions of corticosterone (CORT) with ethanol effects on 45Ca2+ uptake in synaptosomes depolarized by high K+ (70 mM). CORT was shown to antagonize the inhibitory effects of ethanol on the fast-phase component of the K(+)-induced 45Ca2+ uptake (the initial 3 s following depolarization). Glucocorticoid antagonism of ethanol inhibition of the 45Ca2+ uptake exhibited a high degree of steroid specificity; steroids with glucocorticoid activity including cortisol, dexamethasone and triamcinolone were effective, whereas gonadal steroids and excitatory neuroactive steroid metabolites were ineffective. From the shift of concentration-response relationships when CORT and ethanol were present in combination, the interaction between steroid stimulation and ethanol inhibition of 45Ca2+ uptake occurred in an additive manner over the range of their effective concentrations. Parallel to 45Ca2+ uptake, the binding sites for [3H]PN 200-110 were reduced by ethanol and increased by CORT. These opposite effects on [3H]dihydropyridine labeled sites were found also to antagonize each other, and the antagonism again occurred in an additive relationship. These results demonstrate that glucocorticoids antagonized ethanol inhibition of voltage-dependent Ca2+ channel activity in brain synaptosomes, and support the notion that these steroids may be among the endogenous factors that modulate neuronal sensitivity to ethanol.

  15. Polar transport of 45Ca2+ across the elongation zone of gravistimulated roots

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Lee, J. S.; Evans, M. L.

    1985-01-01

    The movement of calcium across the elongation zone of gravistimulated primary roots of maize (Zea mays L.) was measured using 45Ca2+. Radioactive calcium was applied to one side of the elongation zone about 4 mm back from the root tip and the distribution of radioactivity across the root in the region of application was determined using scintillation spectrometry. The movement of 45Ca2+ across the elongation zone was non-polar in vertically oriented roots. In gravistimulated roots the movement of label was polarized with about twice as much label moving from top to bottom as from bottom to top. A variety of treatments which interfere with gravitropism was found to eliminate the polar movement of 45Ca2+ across the elongation zone. In maize cultivars which require light for gravitropic competency, dark grown roots exhibited neither gravitropism nor polar movement of 45Ca2+ across the elongation zone. Upon illumination the roots developed but gravitropic competency and gravity-induced polar movement of 45Ca2+ across the elongation zone. Similarly, roots of light-grown seedlings lost both gravitropic competency and 45Ca2+ transport polarity upon transfer to the dark. The results indicate a close correlation between calcium movement and gravitropism in primary roots in maize.

  16. Investigation of properties of the Ca2+ influx and of the Ca2+-activated K+ efflux (Gárdos effect) in vanadate-treated and ATP-depleted human red blood cells.

    PubMed

    Kaiserová, K; Lakatos, B; Peterajová, E; Orlický, J; Varecka, L'

    2002-12-01

    In this study the properties of the 45Ca2+ influx in human red blood cells (RBC) induced by NaVO3 or ATP-depletion were compared. Both NaVO3-induced and ATP-depletion-induced 45Ca2+ influxes were in the range 10(-6)-10(-5) mol Ca2+ x l(-1)cells x h(-1). The saturatability of ATP-depletion-induced 45Ca2+ influx with Ca2+ was much less pronounced than that of NaVO3-induced 45Ca2+ influx. The NaVO3-induced Ca2+ influx was sensitive to nifedipine (IC50 = 50 micromol/l) and Cu2+ (IC50 = 9 micromol/l) but these inhibitors had only a marginal effect when ATP-depletion was used as the Ca2+ influx inducer. On the other hand, polymyxin B (PXB) (1-5 mg/ml) strongly stimulated the ATP-depletion-induced 45Ca2+ influx whereas its effect on the NaVO3-induced Ca2+ influx was biphasic, with about 10% stimulation at lower PXB concentrations and an inhibition of 40% at higher concentrations. SDS-PAGE revealed that both NaVO3 and PXB induced changes in the protein phosphorylation pattern in the presence of Ca2+. NaVO3 stimulated the phosphorylation of several proteins and this effect was counteracted by PXB. The comparison of the kinetics and temperature dependencies of the Gárdos effect induced by NaVO3 and the ATP-depletion showed marked differences. The ability of NaVO3 to induce the Gárdos effect dramatically increased in ATP-depleted cells. These findings indicate that the 45Ca2+ influxes preceding the activation of the Ca2+-activated K+ efflux (Gárdos effect) stimulated by NaVO3 and by ATP-depletion, are mediated by different transport pathways. In addition, obtained results demonstrate that ATP-depletion and NaVO3-treatment exert additive action in triggering the Gárdos effect.

  17. /sup 45/Ca efflux for myometrial cells: comparison of the effects of prostaglandin F/sub 2/. cap alpha. (PGF/sub 2/), oxytocin (OT) and arachidonate (A)

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Katona, G.; Molnar, M.; Toth, M.

    1986-03-01

    The aim of this study was to measure PGF/sub 2..cap alpha../-induced Ca/sup 2 +/ release from uterine cells and to compare this to the actions of OT and A. Smooth muscle cells isolated from the uterus (shell gland) of laying hens were cultured for 7 days in M199 plus 10% fetal calf serum. The cells were treated with digitonin (20..mu..M) and preloaded with /sup 45/Ca for 40 min. Addition of PGF/sub 2..cap alpha../ caused a biphasic /sup 45/Ca-efflux. There was a small but significant /sup 45/Ca-release within 30 sec (rapid phase) followed by a larger one within 7 min (slowmore » phase). In comparison, both OT and A stimulated /sup 45/Ca efflux during a single, slow phase. The maximal effect of A was observed at < 7 min, whereas that of OT was slower, peaking after 7 min. Mepacrin, an inhibitor of A release, attenuated the action of OT without having any effect on A promoted /sup 45/Ca-efflux. Indomethacin, an inhibitor of PG synthase, failed to suppress the Ca-releasing effect of A suggesting the A itself or a lipoxygenase product may have been responsible for the observed effects. Moreover, these results provide suggestive evidence that A release is an important step in the action of various uterotonic agents converging on the mobilization of intracellular Ca.« less

  18. Tsg101 regulates PI(4,5)P2/Ca2+ signaling for HIV-1 Gag assembly

    PubMed Central

    Ehrlich, Lorna S.; Medina, Gisselle N.; Photiadis, Sara; Whittredge, Paul B.; Watanabe, Susan; Taraska, Justin W.; Carter, Carol A.

    2014-01-01

    Our previous studies identified the 1,4,5-inositol trisphosphate receptor (IP3R), a channel mediating release of Ca2+ from ER stores, as a cellular factor differentially associated with HIV-1 Gag that might facilitate ESCRT function in virus budding. Channel opening requires activation that is initiated by binding of 1,4,5-triphosphate (IP3), a product of phospholipase C (PLC)-mediated PI(4,5)P2 hydrolysis. The store emptying that follows stimulates store refilling which requires intact PI(4,5)P2. Raising cytosolic Ca2+ promotes viral particle production and our studies indicate that IP3R and the ER Ca2+ store are the physiological providers of Ca2+ for Gag assembly and release. Here, we show that Gag modulates ER store gating and refilling. Cells expressing Gag exhibited a higher cytosolic Ca2+ level originating from the ER store than control cells, suggesting that Gag induced release of store Ca2+. This property required the PTAP motif in Gag that recruits Tsg101, an ESCRT-1 component. Consistent with cytosolic Ca2+ elevation, Gag accumulation at the plasma membrane was found to require continuous IP3R activation. Like other IP3R channel modulators, Gag was detected in physical proximity to the ER and to endogenous IP3R, as indicated respectively by total internal reflection fluorescence (TIRF) and immunoelectron microscopy (IEM) or indirect immunofluorescence. Reciprocal co-immunoprecipitation suggested that Gag and IP3R proximity is favored when the PTAP motif in Gag is intact. Gag expression was also accompanied by increased PI(4,5)P2 accumulation at the plasma membrane, a condition favoring store refilling capacity. Supporting this notion, Gag particle production was impervious to treatment with 2-aminoethoxydiphenyl borate, an inhibitor of a refilling coupling interaction. In contrast, particle production by a Gag mutant lacking the PTAP motif was reduced. We conclude that a functional PTAP L domain, and by inference Tsg101 binding, confers Gag with an

  19. A thermodynamic study of electroneutral K-Cl cotransport in pH- and volume-clamped low K sheep erythrocytes with normal and low internal magnesium

    PubMed Central

    1996-01-01

    Swelling-induced human erythrocyte K-Cl cotransport is membrane potential independent and capable of uphill transport. However, a complete thermodynamic analysis of basal and stimulated K-Cl cotransport, at constant cell volume, is missing. This study was performed in low K sheep red blood cells before and after reducing cellular free Mg into the nanomolar range with the divalent cation ionophore A23187 and a chelator, an intervention known to stimulate K- Cl cotransport. The anion exchange inhibitor 4,4'diisothiocyanato- 2,2'disulfonic stilbene was used to clamp intracellular pH and Cl or NO3 concentrations. Cell volume was maintained constant as external and internal pH differed by more than two units. K-Cl cotransport was calculated from the K effluxes and Rb (as K congener) influxes measured in Cl and NO3, at constant internal K and external anions, and variable concentrations of extracellular Rb and internal anions, respectively. The external Rb concentration at which net K-Cl cotransport is zero was defined as flux reversal point which changed with internal pH and hence Cl. Plots of the ratio of external Rb concentrations corresponding to the flux reversal points and the internal K concentration versus the ratio of the internal and external Cl concentrations (i.e., the Donnan ratio of the transported ions) yielded slopes near unity for both control and low internal Mg cells. Thus, basal as well as low internal Mg-stimulated net K-Cl cotransport depends on the electrochemical potential gradient of KCl. PMID:8894982

  20. DsRNA as a stimulator of cell pacemaker activity

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Airapetyan, S.N.; Zakharyan, R.A.; Rychkov, G.E.

    1986-03-01

    The authors study the action of double-stranded RNAs (dsRNA) on the characteristics of neuron pacemaker activity which permits prediction of the character of action of dsRNA on the pacemaker activity of cells and organs, and takes the investigators closer to an understanding of the membrane mechanisms underlying the action of dsRNA on the cell. The methods for isolating and fractionating dsRNA from yeasts and the intracellular recording of the electrical activity of the snail giant neuron have been described by the authors earlier. The authors determined the dependence of Ca/sup 2 +/ entry upon dsRNA concentration using the isotope /supmore » 45/Ca. Preweighed ganglia were incubated five each for an hour in 2 ml Ringer's solution containing dsRNA and 5 microliters /sup 45/CaCl/sub 2/ of 12.5 mCi activity. After incubation, the ganglia were rinsed three times for 8 min each time in normal Ringers solution. The washed ganglia were dissolved for one day in KOH. The amount of isotope entering was counted using Brav's scintillator and an RGT counter tuned to the /sup 45/Ca isotope. The physiological saline used for the isolated ganglion contained 85 mmole NaCl, 4 mmole KCl, 8 mmole CaCl/sub 2/, 10 mmole MgCl/sub 2/, 10 mmole Tris-HCl, and 5 mmole glucose.« less

  1. Sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ uptake and leak properties, and SERCA isoform expression, in type I and type II fibres of human skeletal muscle.

    PubMed

    Lamboley, C R; Murphy, R M; McKenna, M J; Lamb, G D

    2014-03-15

    The Ca(2+) uptake properties of the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) were compared between type I and type II fibres of vastus lateralis muscle of young healthy adults. Individual mechanically skinned muscle fibres were exposed to solutions with the free [Ca(2+)] heavily buffered in the pCa range (-log10[Ca(2+)]) 7.3-6.0 for set times and the amount of net SR Ca(2+) accumulation determined from the force response elicited upon emptying the SR of all Ca(2+). Western blotting was used to determine fibre type and the sarco(endo)plasmic reticulum Ca(2+)-ATPase (SERCA) isoform present in every fibre examined. Type I fibres contained only SERCA2 and displayed half-maximal Ca(2+) uptake rate at ∼pCa 6.8, whereas type II fibres contained only SERCA1 and displayed half-maximal Ca(2+) uptake rate at ∼pCa 6.6. Maximal Ca(2+) uptake rate was ∼0.18 and ∼0.21 mmol Ca(2+) (l fibre)(-1) s(-1) in type I and type II fibres, respectively, in good accord with previously measured SR ATPase activity. Increasing free [Mg(2+)] from 1 to 3 mM had no significant effect on the net Ca(2+) uptake rate at pCa 6.0, indicating that there was little or no calcium-induced calcium release occurring through the Ca(2+) release channels during uptake in either fibre type. Ca(2+) leakage from the SR at pCa 8.5, which is thought to occur at least in part through the SERCA, was ∼2-fold lower in type II fibres than in type I fibres, and was little affected by the presence of ADP, in marked contrast to the larger SR Ca(2+) leak observed in rat muscle fibres under the same conditions. The higher affinity of Ca(2+) uptake in the type I human fibres can account for the higher relative level of SR Ca(2+) loading observed in type I compared to type II fibres, and the SR Ca(2+) leakage characteristics of the human fibres suggest that the SERCAs are regulated differently from those in rat and contribute comparatively less to resting metabolic rate.

  2. Secretory cargo sorting by Ca2+-dependent Cab45 oligomerization at the trans-Golgi network

    PubMed Central

    Blank, Birgit; Maiser, Andreas; Emin, Derya; Prescher, Jens; Beck, Gisela; Kienzle, Christine; Bartnik, Kira; Habermann, Bianca; Pakdel, Mehrshad; Leonhardt, Heinrich; Lamb, Don C.

    2016-01-01

    Sorting and export of transmembrane cargoes and lysosomal hydrolases at the trans-Golgi network (TGN) are well understood. However, elucidation of the mechanism by which secretory cargoes are segregated for their release into the extracellular space remains a challenge. We have previously demonstrated that, in a reaction that requires Ca2+, the soluble TGN-resident protein Cab45 is necessary for the sorting of secretory cargoes at the TGN. Here, we report that Cab45 reversibly assembles into oligomers in the presence of Ca2+. These Cab45 oligomers specifically bind secretory proteins, such as COMP and LyzC, in a Ca2+-dependent manner in vitro. In intact cells, mutation of the Ca2+-binding sites in Cab45 impairs oligomerization, as well as COMP and LyzC sorting. Superresolution microscopy revealed that Cab45 colocalizes with secretory proteins and the TGN Ca2+ pump (SPCA1) in specific TGN microdomains. These findings reveal that Ca2+-dependent changes in Cab45 mediate sorting of specific cargo molecules at the TGN. PMID:27138253

  3. ß-Adrenergic Stimulation Increases RyR2 Activity via Intracellular Ca2+ and Mg2+ Regulation

    PubMed Central

    Li, Jiao; Imtiaz, Mohammad S.; Beard, Nicole A.; Dulhunty, Angela F.; Thorne, Rick; vanHelden, Dirk F.; Laver, Derek R.

    2013-01-01

    Here we investigate how ß-adrenergic stimulation of the heart alters regulation of ryanodine receptors (RyRs) by intracellular Ca2+ and Mg2+ and the role of these changes in SR Ca2+ release. RyRs were isolated from rat hearts, perfused in a Langendorff apparatus for 5 min and subject to 1 min perfusion with 1 µM isoproterenol or without (control) and snap frozen in liquid N2 to capture their phosphorylation state. Western Blots show that RyR2 phosphorylation was increased by isoproterenol, confirming that RyR2 were subject to normal ß-adrenergic signaling. Under basal conditions, S2808 and S2814 had phosphorylation levels of 69% and 15%, respectively. These levels were increased to 83% and 60%, respectively, after 60 s of ß-adrenergic stimulation consistent with other reports that ß-adrenergic stimulation of the heart can phosphorylate RyRs at specific residues including S2808 and S2814 causing an increase in RyR activity. At cytoplasmic [Ca2+] <1 µM, ß-adrenergic stimulation increased luminal Ca2+ activation of single RyR channels, decreased luminal Mg2+ inhibition and decreased inhibition of RyRs by mM cytoplasmic Mg2+. At cytoplasmic [Ca2+] >1 µM, ß-adrenergic stimulation only decreased cytoplasmic Mg2+ and Ca2+ inhibition of RyRs. The Ka and maximum levels of cytoplasmic Ca2+ activation site were not affected by ß-adrenergic stimulation. Our RyR2 gating model was fitted to the single channel data. It predicted that in diastole, ß-adrenergic stimulation is mediated by 1) increasing the activating potency of Ca2+ binding to the luminal Ca2+ site and decreasing its affinity for luminal Mg2+ and 2) decreasing affinity of the low-affinity Ca2+/Mg2+ cytoplasmic inhibition site. However in systole, ß-adrenergic stimulation is mediated mainly by the latter. PMID:23533585

  4. Silver Uptake, Distribution, and Effect on Calcium, Phosphorus, and Sulfur Uptake 1

    PubMed Central

    Koontz, Harold V.; Berle, Karen L.

    1980-01-01

    Bean, corn, and tomato plants were grown in a nutrient solution labeled with 32P, 45Ca, or 35S and varying concentrations of AgNO3. Following a 6-hour treatment period, plants were harvested and analyzed. A low Ag+ concentration (50 nanomolar) inhibited the shoot uptake of the ions investigated. In the roots, Ca uptake increased whereas P and S uptake decreased. Autoradiograms of bean and corn plants, using 110mAg, showed that Ag+ was uniformly deposited in the bean shoot, but corn shoots had regions of high activity along the leaf margins and at the tips where guttation had occurred. Roots were heavily labeled and shoots (especially the new growth) continued to accumulate Ag+ even after the intact plant was returned to Ag-free solution. Silver was believed to be phloem-mobile since it was exported from a treated leaf. Bean plants removed one-half the Ag+ from 4 liters of nutrient solution containing 50 nanomolar AgNO3 within 1.5 hours, but took 16 hours for 20 liters of solution. Images PMID:16661185

  5. A novel D-phenylalanine-derivative hypoglycemic agent A-4166 increases cytosolic free Ca2+ in rat pancreatic beta-cells by stimulating Ca2+ influx.

    PubMed

    Fujitani, S; Yada, T

    1994-03-01

    It has recently been shown that N-[(trans-4-isopropylcyclohexyl)-carbonyl]D-phenylalanine (A-4166), a new nonsulfonylurea oral hypoglycemic agent, reduces blood glucose levels in nondiabetic and diabetic animals in a quicker and shorter lasting manner than sulfonylureas, and that the hypoglycemic effect of A-4166 is due to the stimulation of insulin release. However, the mechanism by which A-4166 stimulates insulin release is still unknown. In the present study, we investigated the effect of A-4166 on the cytosolic free Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) in pancreatic beta-cells from normal rats by dual wavelength fura-2 microfluorometry. In the presence of 2.8 mM glucose, A-4166 produced a rapid increase in [Ca2+]i in a concentration-dependent manner over the range of 3-30 microM. The increase in [Ca2+]i was transient, oscillatory, or sustained. A-4166 did not evoke any decrease in [Ca2+]i, whereas a high concentration of glucose (16.7 mM), a metabolized secretagogue, produced an initial decrease and a subsequent increase in [Ca2+]i. In the presence of 16.7 mM glucose, low concentrations (0.03-1 microM) of A-4166 produced an increase in [Ca2+]i in some of the beta-cells tested. The [Ca2+]i response to A-4166 was completely and reversibly inhibited under Ca(2+)-free conditions as well as by nitrendipine, a blocker of the L-type Ca2+ channel. Nitrendipine also inhibited insulin release from perfused rat pancreases stimulated by A-4166. Diazoxide, an opener of the ATP-sensitive K+ channel, blocked the [Ca2+]i response to A-4166. Sulfonylureas such as tolbutamide and glibenclamide increased [Ca2+]i in a manner similar to A-4166. These results indicate that at basal glucose concentrations, A-4166 increases [Ca2+]i in rat pancreatic beta-cells by stimulating Ca2+ influx through L-type Ca2+ channels, and that this effect is markedly augmented at elevated glucose concentrations. It appears that the increase in [Ca2+]i is related to the stimulation of insulin release by A-4166

  6. Homeostatic Regulation of the PI(4,5)P2-Ca2+ Signaling System at ER-PM Junctions

    PubMed Central

    Chang, Chi-Lun; Liou, Jen

    2016-01-01

    The phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PI(4,5)P2)-Ca2+ signaling system is important for cell activation in response to various extracellular stimuli. This signaling system is initiated by receptor-induced hydrolysis of PI(4,5)P2 in the plasma membrane (PM) to generate the soluble second messenger inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3). IP3 subsequently triggers the release of Ca2+ from the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) store to the cytosol to activate Ca2+-mediated responses, such as secretion and proliferation. The consumed PM PI(4,5)P2 and ER Ca2+ must be quickly restored to sustain signaling responses, and to maintain the homeostasis of PI(4,5)P2 and Ca2+. Since phosphatidylinositol (PI), the precursor lipid for PM PI(4,5)P2, is synthesized in the ER membrane, and a Ca2+ influx across the PM is required to refill the ER Ca2+ store, efficient communications between the ER and the PM are critical for the homeostatic regulation of the PI(4,5)P2-Ca2+ signaling system. This review describes the major findings that established the framework of the PI(4,5)P2-Ca2+ signaling system, and recent discoveries on feedback control mechanisms at ER-PM junctions that sustain the PI(4,5)P2-Ca2+ signaling system. Particular emphasis is placed on the characterization of ER-PM junctions where efficient communications between the ER and the PM occurs, and the activation mechanisms of proteins that dynamically localize to ER-PM junctions to provide the feedback control during PI(4,5)P2-Ca2+ signaling, including the ER Ca2+ sensor STIM1, the extended synaptotagmin E-Syt1, and the PI transfer protein Nir2. This review is part of a Special Issue entitled The Cellular Lipid Landscape. PMID:26924250

  7. Effect of sepsis on calcium uptake and content in skeletal muscle and regulation in vitro by calcium of total and myofibrillar protein breakdown in control and septic muscle: Results from a preliminary study

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Benson, D.W.; Hasselgren, P.O.; Hiyama, D.T.

    Because high calcium concentration in vitro stimulates muscle proteolysis, calcium has been implicated in the pathogenesis of increased muscle breakdown in different catabolic conditions. Protein breakdown in skeletal muscle is increased during sepsis, but the effect of sepsis on muscle calcium uptake and content is not known. In this study the influence of sepsis, induced in rats by cecal ligation and puncture, on muscle calcium uptake and content was studied. Sixteen hours after cecal ligation and puncture or sham operation, calcium content of the extensor digitorum longus (EDL) and soleus (SOL) muscles was determined with an atomic absorption spectrometer. Calciummore » uptake was measured in intact SOL muscles incubated in the presence of calcium 45 (45Ca) for between 1 and 120 minutes. Total and myofibrillar protein breakdown was determined in SOL muscles, incubated in the presence of different calcium concentrations (0; 2.5; 5.0 mmol/L), and measured as release into the incubation medium of tyrosine and 3-methylhistidine (3-MH), respectively. Calcium content was increased by 51% (p less than 0.001) during sepsis in SOL and by 10% (p less than 0.05) in EDL muscle. There was no difference in 45Ca uptake between control and septic muscles during the early phase (1 to 5 minutes) of incubation. During more extended incubation (30 to 120 minutes), muscles from septic rats took up significantly more 45Ca than control muscles (p less than 0.05). Tyrosine release by incubated SOL muscles from control and septic rats was increased when calcium was added to the incubation medium, and at a calcium concentration of 2.5 mmol/L, the increase in tyrosine release was greater in septic than in control muscle. Addition of calcium to the incubation medium did not affect 3-MH release in control or septic muscle.« less

  8. The interrelation between aPKC and glucose uptake in the skeletal muscle during contraction and insulin stimulation.

    PubMed

    Santos, J M; Benite-Ribeiro, S A; Queiroz, G; Duarte, J A

    2014-12-01

    Contraction and insulin increase glucose uptake in skeletal muscle. While the insulin pathway, better characterized, requires activation of phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) and atypical protein kinase (aPKC), muscle contraction seems to share insulin-activated components to increase glucose uptake. This study aimed to investigate the interrelation between the pathway involved in glucose uptake evoked by insulin and muscle contraction. Isolated muscle of rats was treated with solvent (control), insulin, wortmannin (PI3K inhibitor) and the combination of insulin plus wortmannin. After treatment, muscles were electrically stimulated (contracted) or remained at rest. Glucose transporter 4 (GLUT4) localization, glucose uptake and phospho-aPKC (aPKC activated form) were assessed. Muscle contraction and insulin increased glucose uptake in all conditions when compared with controls not stimulating an effect that was accompanied by an increase in GLUT4 and of phospho-aPKC at the muscle membrane. Contracted muscles treated with insulin did not show additive effects on glucose uptake or aPKC activity compared with the response when these stimuli were applied alone. Inhibition of PI3K blocked insulin effect on glucose uptake and aPKC but not in the contractile response. Thus, muscle contraction seems to stimulate aPKC and glucose uptake independently of PI3K. Therefore, aPKC may be a convergence point and a rate limit step in the pathway by which, insulin and contraction, increase glucose uptake in skeletal muscle. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

  9. Extracellular Vesicles from Hypoxic Adipocytes and Obese Subjects Reduce Insulin‐Stimulated Glucose Uptake

    PubMed Central

    Mleczko, Justyna; Ortega, Francisco J.; Falcon‐Perez, Juan Manuel; Wabitsch, Martin; Fernandez‐Real, Jose Manuel

    2018-01-01

    Scope We investigate the effects of extracellular vesicles (EVs) obtained from in vitro adipocyte cell models and from obese subjects on glucose transport and insulin responsiveness. Methods and results EVs are isolated from the culture supernatant of adipocytes cultured under normoxia, hypoxia (1% oxygen), or exposed to macrophage conditioned media (15% v/v). EVs are isolated from the plasma of lean individuals and subjects with obesity. Cultured adipocytes are incubated with EVs and activation of insulin signalling cascades and insulin‐stimulated glucose transport are measured. EVs released from hypoxic adipocytes impair insulin‐stimulated 2‐deoxyglucose uptake and reduce insulin mediated phosphorylation of AKT. Insulin‐mediated phosphorylation of extracellular regulated kinases (ERK1/2) is not affected. EVs from individuals with obesity decrease insulin stimulated 2‐deoxyglucose uptake in adipocytes (p = 0.0159). Conclusion EVs released by stressed adipocytes impair insulin action in neighboring adipocytes. PMID:29292863

  10. Close Association of Carbonic Anhydrase (CA2a and CA15a), Na+/H+ Exchanger (Nhe3b), and Ammonia Transporter Rhcg1 in Zebrafish Ionocytes Responsible for Na+ Uptake

    PubMed Central

    Ito, Yusuke; Kobayashi, Sayako; Nakamura, Nobuhiro; Miyagi, Hisako; Esaki, Masahiro; Hoshijima, Kazuyuki; Hirose, Shigehisa

    2013-01-01

    Freshwater (FW) fishes actively absorb salt from their environment to tolerate low salinities. We previously reported that vacuolar-type H+-ATPase/mitochondrion-rich cells (H-MRCs) on the skin epithelium of zebrafish larvae (Danio rerio) are primary sites for Na+ uptake. In this study, in an attempt to clarify the mechanism for the Na+ uptake, we performed a systematic analysis of gene expression patterns of zebrafish carbonic anhydrase (CA) isoforms and found that, of 12 CA isoforms, CA2a and CA15a are highly expressed in H-MRCs at larval stages. The ca2a and ca15a mRNA expression were salinity-dependent; they were upregulated in 0.03 mM Na+ water whereas ca15a but not ca2a was down-regulated in 70 mM Na+ water. Immunohistochemistry demonstrated cytoplasmic distribution of CA2a and apical membrane localization of CA15a. Furthermore, cell surface immunofluorescence staining revealed external surface localization of CA15a. Depletion of either CA2a or CA15a expression by Morpholino antisense oligonucleotides resulted in a significant decrease in Na+ accumulation in H-MRCs. An in situ proximity ligation assay demonstrated a very close association of CA2a, CA15a, Na+/H+ exchanger 3b (Nhe3b), and Rhcg1 ammonia transporter in H-MRC. Our findings suggest that CA2a, CA15a, and Rhcg1 play a key role in Na+uptake under FW conditions by forming a transport metabolon with Nhe3b. PMID:23565095

  11. Mifepristone enhances insulin-stimulated Akt phosphorylation and glucose uptake in skeletal muscle cells.

    PubMed

    Bernal-Sore, Izela; Navarro-Marquez, Mario; Osorio-Fuentealba, César; Díaz-Castro, Francisco; Del Campo, Andrea; Donoso-Barraza, Camila; Porras, Omar; Lavandero, Sergio; Troncoso, Rodrigo

    2018-02-05

    Mifepristone is the only FDA-approved drug for glycaemia control in patients with Cushing's syndrome and type 2 diabetes. Mifepristone also has beneficial effects in animal models of diabetes and patients with antipsychotic treatment-induced obesity. However, the mechanisms through which Mifepristone produces its beneficial effects are not completely elucidated. To determine the effects of mifepristone on insulin-stimulated glucose uptake on a model of L6 rat-derived skeletal muscle cells. Mifepristone enhanced insulin-dependent glucose uptake, GLUT4 translocation to the plasma membrane and Akt Ser 473 phosphorylation in L6 myotubes. In addition, mifepristone reduced oxygen consumption and ATP levels and increased AMPK Thr 172 phosphorylation. The knockdown of AMPK prevented the effects of mifepristone on insulin response. Mifepristone enhanced insulin-stimulated glucose uptake through a mechanism that involves a decrease in mitochondrial function and AMPK activation in skeletal muscle cells. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  12. Stimulation of brain glucose uptake by cannabinoid CB2 receptors and its therapeutic potential in Alzheimer's disease.

    PubMed

    Köfalvi, Attila; Lemos, Cristina; Martín-Moreno, Ana M; Pinheiro, Bárbara S; García-García, Luis; Pozo, Miguel A; Valério-Fernandes, Ângela; Beleza, Rui O; Agostinho, Paula; Rodrigues, Ricardo J; Pasquaré, Susana J; Cunha, Rodrigo A; de Ceballos, María L

    2016-11-01

    Cannabinoid CB2 receptors (CB2Rs) are emerging as important therapeutic targets in brain disorders that typically involve neurometabolic alterations. We here addressed the possible role of CB2Rs in the regulation of glucose uptake in the mouse brain. To that aim, we have undertaken 1) measurement of (3)H-deoxyglucose uptake in cultured cortical astrocytes and neurons and in acute hippocampal slices; 2) real-time visualization of fluorescently labeled deoxyglucose uptake in superfused hippocampal slices; and 3) in vivo PET imaging of cerebral (18)F-fluorodeoxyglucose uptake. We now show that both selective (JWH133 and GP1a) as well as non-selective (WIN55212-2) CB2R agonists, but not the CB1R-selective agonist, ACEA, stimulate glucose uptake, in a manner that is sensitive to the CB2R-selective antagonist, AM630. Glucose uptake is stimulated in astrocytes and neurons in culture, in acute hippocampal slices, in different brain areas of young adult male C57Bl/6j and CD-1 mice, as well as in middle-aged C57Bl/6j mice. Among the endocannabinoid metabolizing enzymes, the selective inhibition of COX-2, rather than that of FAAH, MAGL or α,βDH6/12, also stimulates the uptake of glucose in hippocampal slices of middle-aged mice, an effect that was again prevented by AM630. However, we found the levels of the endocannabinoid, anandamide reduced in the hippocampus of TgAPP-2576 mice (a model of β-amyloidosis), and likely as a consequence, COX-2 inhibition failed to stimulate glucose uptake in these mice. Together, these results reveal a novel general glucoregulatory role for CB2Rs in the brain, raising therapeutic interest in CB2R agonists as nootropic agents. Copyright © 2016 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.

  13. Calcium transport in vesicles from carrot cells: Stimulation by calmodulin and phosphatidylserine. [Daucus carota cv. Danvers

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Wenling Hsieh; Sze, Heven

    1991-05-01

    The transport properties of Ca-pumping ATPases from carrot (Daucus carota cv. Danvers) tissue culture cells were studied. ATP dependent Ca transport in vesicles that comigrated with an ER marker, was stimulated 3-4 fold by calmodulin. Cyclopiazonic acid (a specific inhibitor of the sarcoplasmic/endoplasmic reticulum Ca-ATPase) partially inhibited oxalate-stimulated Ca transport activity; however, it had little or not effect on calmodulin-stimulated Ca uptake. The results suggested the presence of two types of Ca ATPases, and ER- and a plasma membrane-type. Incubation of membranes with (gamma{sup 32}P)ATP resulted in the formation of a single acyl ({sup 32}P) phosphoprotein of 120 kDa. Formationmore » of this phosphoprotein was dependent on Ca, and enhanced by La {sup 3+}, characteristic of the plasma membrane CaATPase. Acidic phospholipids, like phosphatidylserine, stimulated Ca transport, similar to their effect on the erythrocyte plasma membrane CaATPase. These results would indicate that the calmodulin-stimulated Ca transport originated in large part from a plasma membrane-type Ca pump of 120 kDa.« less

  14. Muscarinic Stimulation Facilitates Sarcoplasmic Reticulum Ca Release by Modulating Ryanodine Receptor 2 Phosphorylation Through Protein Kinase G and Ca/Calmodulin-Dependent Protein Kinase II.

    PubMed

    Ho, Hsiang-Ting; Belevych, Andriy E; Liu, Bin; Bonilla, Ingrid M; Radwański, Przemysław B; Kubasov, Igor V; Valdivia, Héctor H; Schober, Karsten; Carnes, Cynthia A; Györke, Sándor

    2016-11-01

    Although the effects and the underlying mechanism of sympathetic stimulation on cardiac Ca handling are relatively well established both in health and disease, the modes of action and mechanisms of parasympathetic modulation are poorly defined. Here, we demonstrate that parasympathetic stimulation initiates a novel mode of excitation-contraction coupling that enhances the efficiency of cardiac sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca store utilization. This efficient mode of excitation-contraction coupling involves reciprocal changes in the phosphorylation of ryanodine receptor 2 at Ser-2808 and Ser-2814. Specifically, Ser-2808 phosphorylation was mediated by muscarinic receptor subtype 2 and activation of PKG (protein kinase G), whereas dephosphorylation of Ser-2814 involved activation of muscarinic receptor subtype 3 and decreased reactive oxygen species-dependent activation of CaMKII (Ca/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II). The overall effect of these changes in phosphorylation of ryanodine receptor 2 is an increase in systolic Ca release at the low sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca content and a paradoxical reduction in aberrant Ca leak. Accordingly, cholinergic stimulation of cardiomyocytes isolated from failing hearts improved Ca cycling efficiency by restoring altered ryanodine receptor 2 phosphorylation balance. © 2016 American Heart Association, Inc.

  15. Relationship of Cell Sap pH to Organic Acid Change During Ion Uptake 1

    PubMed Central

    Hiatt, A. J.

    1967-01-01

    Excised roots of barley (Hordeum vulgare, var. Campana) were incubated in KCl, K2SO4, CaCl2, and NaCl solutions at concentrations of 10−5 to 10−2 n. Changes in substrate solution pH, cell sap pH, and organic acid content of the roots were related to differences in cation and anion absorption. The pH of expressed sap of roots increased when cations were absorbed in excess of anions and decreased when anions were absorbed in excess of cations. The pH of the cell sap shifted in response to imbalances in cation and anion uptake in salt solutions as dilute as 10−5 n. Changes in cell sap pH were detectable within 15 minutes after the roots were placed in 10−3 n K2SO4. Organic acid changes in the roots were proportional to expressed sap pH changes induced by unbalanced ion uptake. Changes in organic acid content in response to differential cation and anion uptake appear to be associated with the low-salt component of ion uptake. PMID:16656506

  16. Dynamics of receptor-operated Ca(2+) currents through TRPC channels controlled via the PI(4,5)P2-PLC signaling pathway.

    PubMed

    Mori, Masayuki X; Itsuki, Kyohei; Hase, Hideharu; Sawamura, Seishiro; Kurokawa, Tatsuki; Mori, Yasuo; Inoue, Ryuji

    2015-01-01

    Transient receptor potential canonical (TRPC) channels are Ca(2+)-permeable, nonselective cation channels that carry receptor-operated Ca(2+) currents (ROCs) triggered by receptor-induced, phospholipase C (PLC)-catalyzed hydrolysis of phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate [PI(4,5)P2]. Within the vasculature, TRPC channel ROCs contribute to smooth muscle cell depolarization, vasoconstriction, and vascular remodeling. However, TRPC channel ROCs exhibit a variable response to receptor-stimulation, and the regulatory mechanisms governing TRPC channel activity remain obscure. The variability of ROCs may be explained by their complex regulation by PI(4,5)P2 and its metabolites, which differentially affect TRPC channel activity. To resolve the complex regulation of ROCs, the use of voltage-sensing phosphoinositide phosphatases and model simulation have helped to reveal the time-dependent contribution of PI(4,5)P2 and the possible role of PI(4,5)P2 in the regulation of ROCs. These approaches may provide unprecedented insight into the dynamics of PI(4,5)P2 regulation of TRPC channels and the fundamental mechanisms underlying transmembrane ion flow. Within that context, we summarize the regulation of TRPC channels and their coupling to receptor-mediated signaling, as well as the application of voltage-sensing phosphoinositide phosphatases to this research. We also discuss the controversial bidirectional effects of PI(4,5)P2 using a model simulation that could explain the complicated effects of PI(4,5)P2 on different ROCs.

  17. Detection of zinc translocation into apical dendrite of CA1 pyramidal neuron after electrical stimulation.

    PubMed

    Suh, Sang Won

    2009-02-15

    Translocation of the endogenous cation zinc from presynaptic terminals to postsynaptic neurons after brain insult has been implicated as a potential neurotoxic event. Several studies have previously demonstrated that a brief electrical stimulation is sufficient to induce the translocation of zinc from presynaptic vesicles into the cytoplasm (soma) of postsynaptic neurons. In the present work I have extended those findings in three ways: (i) providing evidence that zinc translocation occurs into apical dendrites, (ii) presenting data that there is an apparent translocation into apical dendrites when only a zinc-containing synaptic input is stimulated, and (iii) presenting data that there is no zinc translocation into apical dendrite of ZnT3 KO mice following electrical stimulation. Hippocampal slices were preloaded with the "trappable" zinc fluorescent probe, Newport Green. After washout, a single apical dendrite in the stratum radiatum of hippocampal CA1 area was selected and focused on. Burst stimulation (100Hz, 500microA, 0.2ms, monopolar) was delivered to either the adjacent Schaffer-collateral inputs (zinc-containing) or to the adjacent temporo-ammonic inputs (zinc-free) to the CA1 dendrites. Stimulation of the Schaffer collaterals increased the dendritic fluorescence, which was blocked by TTX, low-Ca medium, or the extracellular zinc chelator, CaEDTA. Stimulation of the temporo-ammonic pathway caused no significant rise in the fluorescence. Genetic depletion of vesicular zinc by ZnT3 KO showed no stimulation-induced apical dendrite zinc rise. The present study provides evidence that synaptically released zinc translocates into postsynaptic neurons through the apical dendrites of CA1 pyramidal neurons during physiological synaptic activity.

  18. (S)-[6]-Gingerol enhances glucose uptake in L6 myotubes by activation of AMPK in response to [Ca2+]i.

    PubMed

    Li, Yiming; Tran, Van H; Koolaji, Nooshin; Duke, Colin; Roufogalis, Basil D

    2013-01-01

    The aim of this study was to investigate the mechanism of (S)-[6]-gingerol in promoting glucose uptake in L6 skeletal muscle cells. The effect of (S)-[6]-gingerol on glucose uptake in L6 myotubes was examined using 2-[1,2-3H]-deoxy-D-glucose. Intracellular Ca2+ concentration was measured using Fluo-4. Phosphorylation of AMPKα was determined by Western blotting analysis. (S)-[6]-Gingerol time-dependently enhanced glucose uptake in L6 myotubes. (S)-[6]-Gingerol elevated intracellular Ca2+ concentration and subsequently induced a dose- and time-dependent enhancement of threonine172 phosphorylated AMPKα in L6 myotubes via modulation by Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase kinase. The results indicated that (S)-[6]-gingerol increased glucose uptake in L6 skeletal muscle cells by activating AMPK. (S)-[6]-gingerol, a major component of Zingiber officinale, may have potential for development as an antidiabetic agent.

  19. Complexin and Ca2+ stimulate SNARE-mediated membrane fusion

    PubMed Central

    Yoon, Tae-Young; Lu, Xiaobind; Diao, Jiajie; Lee, Soo-Min; Ha, Taekjip; Shin, Yeon-Kyun

    2008-01-01

    Ca2+-triggered, synchronized synaptic vesicle fusion underlies interneuronal communication. Complexin is a major binding partner of the SNARE complex, the core fusion machinery at the presynapse. The physiological data on complexin, however, have been at odds with each other, making delineation of its molecular function difficult. Here we report direct observation of two-faceted functions of complexin using the single-vesicle fluorescence fusion assay and EPR. We show that complexin I has two opposing effects on trans-SNARE assembly: inhibition of SNARE complex formation and stabilization of assembled SNARE complexes. Of note, SNARE-mediated fusion is markedly stimulated by complexin, and it is further accelerated by two orders of magnitude in response to an externally applied Ca2+ wave. We suggest that SNARE complexes, complexins and phospholipids collectively form a complex substrate for Ca2+ and Ca2+-sensing fusion effectors in neurotransmitter release. PMID:18552825

  20. Lysosomes shape Ins(1,4,5)P3-evoked Ca2+ signals by selectively sequestering Ca2+ released from the endoplasmic reticulum

    PubMed Central

    López-Sanjurjo, Cristina I.; Tovey, Stephen C.; Prole, David L.; Taylor, Colin W.

    2013-01-01

    Summary Most intracellular Ca2+ signals result from opening of Ca2+ channels in the plasma membrane or endoplasmic reticulum (ER), and they are reversed by active transport across these membranes or by shuttling Ca2+ into mitochondria. Ca2+ channels in lysosomes contribute to endo-lysosomal trafficking and Ca2+ signalling, but the role of lysosomal Ca2+ uptake in Ca2+ signalling is unexplored. Inhibition of lysosomal Ca2+ uptake by dissipating the H+ gradient (using bafilomycin A1), perforating lysosomal membranes (using glycyl-L-phenylalanine 2-naphthylamide) or lysosome fusion (using vacuolin) increased the Ca2+ signals evoked by receptors that stimulate inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate [Ins(1,4,5)P3] formation. Bafilomycin A1 amplified the Ca2+ signals evoked by photolysis of caged Ins(1,4,5)P3 or by inhibition of ER Ca2+ pumps, and it slowed recovery from them. Ca2+ signals evoked by store-operated Ca2+ entry were unaffected by bafilomycin A1. Video-imaging with total internal reflection fluorescence microscopy revealed that lysosomes were motile and remained intimately associated with the ER. Close association of lysosomes with the ER allows them selectively to accumulate Ca2+ released by Ins(1,4,5)P3 receptors. PMID:23097044

  1. Quantitative megavoltage radiation therapy dosimetry using the storage phosphor KCl:Eu2+

    PubMed Central

    Han, Zhaohui; Driewer, Joseph P.; Zheng, Yuanshui; Low, Daniel A.; Li, H. Harold

    2009-01-01

    This work, for the first time, reports the use of europium doped potassium chloride (KCl:Eu2+) storage phosphor for quantitative megavoltage radiation therapy dosimetry. In principle, KCl:Eu2+ functions using the same photostimulatated luminescence (PSL) mechanism as commercially available BaFBr0.85I0.15:Eu2+ material that is used for computed radiography (CR) but features a significantly smaller effective atomic number—18 versus 49—making it a potentially useful material for nearly tissue-equivalent radiation dosimetry. Cylindrical KCl:Eu2+ dosimeters, 7 mm in diameter and 1 mm thick, were fabricated in-house. Dosimetric properties, including radiation hardness, response linearity, signal fading, dose rate sensitivity, and energy dependence, were studied with a laboratory optical reader after irradiation by a linear accelerator. The overall experimental uncertainty was estimated to be within ±2.5%. The findings were (1) KCl:Eu2+ showed satisfactory radiation hardness. There was no significant change in the stimulation spectra after irradiation up to 200 Gy when compared to a fresh dosimeter, indicating that this material could be reused at least 100 times if 2 Gy per use was assumed, e.g., for patient-specific IMRT QA. (2) KCl:Eu2+ exhibited supralinear response to dose after irradiation from 0 to 800 cGy. (3) After x ray irradiation, the PSL signal faded with time and eventually reached a fading rate of about 0.1%∕h after 12 h. (4) The sensitivity of the dosimeter was independent of the dose rate ranging from 15 to 1000 cGy∕min. (5) The sensitivity showed no beam energy dependence for either open x ray or megavoltage electron fields. (6) Over-response to low-energy scattered photons was comparable to radiographic film, e.g., Kodak EDR2 film. By sandwiching dosimeters between low-energy photon filters (0.3 mm thick lead foils) during irradiation, the over-response was reduced. The authors have demonstrated that KCl:Eu2+ dosimeters have many desirable

  2. Low-salt diet enhances vascular reactivity and Ca(2+) entry in pregnant rats with normal and reduced uterine perfusion pressure.

    PubMed

    Giardina, Jena B; Cockrell, Kathy L; Granger, Joey P; Khalil, Raouf A

    2002-02-01

    Salt moderation is often recommended to prevent excessive increases in blood pressure during pregnancy, particularly in women who are prone to pregnancy-induced hypertension; however, the vascular effects of low dietary salt intake during pregnancy are unclear. We investigated whether a low-salt diet during pregnancy alters the mechanisms of vascular smooth muscle contraction. Active stress and (45)Ca(2+) influx were measured in endothelium-denuded aortic strips of virgin and normal pregnant Sprague-Dawley rats and a hypertensive pregnant rat model produced by reduction in uterine perfusion pressure (RUPP), fed either a normal-sodium (NS, 1% NaCl) or low-sodium diet (LS, 0.2% NaCl) for 7 days. The mean arterial pressure was as follows: virgin/NS 108 +/- 8, virgin/LS 117 +/- 7, pregnant/NS 102 +/- 3, pregnant/LS 117 +/- 4, RUPP/NS 119 +/- 3, and RUPP/LS 133 +/- 6 mm Hg. Phenylephrine (Phe) caused concentration-dependent increases in active stress and (45)Ca(2+) influx that were greater in RUPP rats than in normal pregnant or virgin rats and were enhanced in pregnant/LS and RUPP/LS compared with pregnant/NS and RUPP/NS, respectively. High KCl (16 to 96 mmol/L), which stimulates Ca(2+) entry from the extracellular space, also caused increases in active stress that were greater in RUPP than in normal pregnant, in pregnant/LS than in pregnant/NS, and in RUPP/LS than in RUPP/NS rats. The Phe-induced (45)Ca(2+) influx--active stress relation was greater in RUPP/NS than in pregnant/NS and was enhanced in pregnant/LS and RUPP/LS compared with pregnant/NS and RUPP/NS, respectively. In Ca(2+)-free (2 mmol/L ethylene glycol bis(beta-aminoethylether)-N,N,N',N'-tetra-acetic acid) Krebs, stimulation of intracellular Ca(2+) release by Phe (10(-5) mol/L) or caffeine (25 mmol/L) caused a transient contraction that was not significantly different in all groups of rats. Thus, a low-salt diet in pregnant and RUPP rats is associated with increases in vascular reactivity that involves Ca

  3. Ca2+ Entry is Required for Mechanical Stimulation-induced ATP Release from Astrocyte

    PubMed Central

    Lee, Jaekwang; Chun, Ye-Eun; Han, Kyung-Seok; Lee, Jungmoo; Woo, Dong Ho

    2015-01-01

    Astrocytes and neurons are inseparable partners in the brain. Neurotransmitters released from neurons activate corresponding G protein-coupled receptors (GPCR) expressed in astrocytes, resulting in release of gliotransmitters such as glutamate, D-serine, and ATP. These gliotransmitters in turn influence neuronal excitability and synaptic activities. Among these gliotransmitters, ATP regulates the level of network excitability and is critically involved in sleep homeostasis and astrocytic Ca2+ oscillations. ATP is known to be released from astrocytes by Ca2+-dependent manner. However, the precise source of Ca2+, whether it is Ca2+ entry from outside of cell or from the intracellular store, is still not clear yet. Here, we performed sniffer patch to detect ATP release from astrocyte by using various stimulation. We found that ATP was not released from astrocyte when Ca2+ was released from intracellular stores by activation of Gαq-coupled GPCR including PAR1, P2YR, and B2R. More importantly, mechanical stimulation (MS)-induced ATP release from astrocyte was eliminated when external Ca2+ was omitted. Our results suggest that Ca2+ entry, but not release from intracellular Ca2+ store, is critical for MS-induced ATP release from astrocyte. PMID:25792866

  4. Honokiol and magnolol stimulate glucose uptake by activating PI3K-dependent Akt in L6 myotubes.

    PubMed

    Choi, Sun-Sil; Cha, Byung-Yoon; Lee, Young-Sil; Yonezawa, Takayuki; Teruya, Toshiaki; Nagai, Kazuo; Woo, Je-Tae

    2012-01-01

    Honokiol and magnolol, ingredients of Magnolia officinalis, which is used in traditional Chinese and Japanese medicines, have been reported to have antioxidant, anticancer, and antiangiogenic effects. Effects of these compounds on glucose metabolism in adipocytes have also been reported. However, their effects on skeletal muscle glucose uptake and the underlying molecular mechanisms are still unknown. Here, we investigated the direct effects and signaling pathways activated by honokiol and magnolol in skeletal muscle cells using L6 myotubes. We found that honokiol and magnolol dose-dependently acutely stimulated glucose uptake without synergistic effects of combined administration in L6 myotubes. Treatment with honokiol and magnolol also stimulated glucose transporter-4 translocation to the cell surface. Honokiol- and magnolol-stimulated glucose uptake was blocked by the phosphatidylinositol-3 kinase inhibitor, wortmannin. Both honokiol and magnolol stimulated Akt phosphorylation, a key element in the insulin signaling pathway, which was completely inhibited by wortmannin. These results suggest that honokiol and magnolol might have beneficial effects on glucose metabolism by activating the insulin signaling pathway. Copyright © 2012 International Union of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Inc.

  5. Gold nanoparticle-assisted all optical localized stimulation and monitoring of Ca2+ signaling in neurons

    PubMed Central

    Lavoie-Cardinal, Flavie; Salesse, Charleen; Bergeron, Éric; Meunier, Michel; De Koninck, Paul

    2016-01-01

    Light-assisted manipulation of cells to control membrane activity or intracellular signaling has become a major avenue in life sciences. However, the ability to perform subcellular light stimulation to investigate localized signaling has been limited. Here, we introduce an all optical method for the stimulation and the monitoring of localized Ca2+ signaling in neurons that takes advantage of plasmonic excitation of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs). We show with confocal microscopy that 800 nm laser pulse application onto a neuron decorated with a few AuNPs triggers a transient increase in free Ca2+, measured optically with GCaMP6s. We show that action potentials, measured electrophysiologically, can be induced with this approach. We demonstrate activation of local Ca2+ transients and Ca2+ signaling via CaMKII in dendritic domains, by illuminating a single or few functionalized AuNPs specifically targeting genetically-modified neurons. This NP-Assisted Localized Optical Stimulation (NALOS) provides a new complement to light-dependent methods for controlling neuronal activity and cell signaling. PMID:26857748

  6. Electrochemical measurements of diffusion coefficients and activity coefficients for MnCl2 in molten eutectic LiCl-KCl

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Horvath, D.; Rappleye, D.; Bagri, P.; Simpson, M. F.

    2017-09-01

    An electrochemical study of manganese chloride in molten salt mixtures of eutectic LiCl-KCl was carried out using a variety of electrochemical methods in a high temperature cell including cyclic voltammetry (CV), chronopotentiometry (CP), chronoamperometry (CA), and open circuit potentiometry. Single step reduction from Mn2+ to Mn(0) was observed on both W and Mo working electrodes. Using a combination of these methods, measurements were made of activity coefficient and diffusion coefficient for MnCl2 in LiCl-KCl as a function of concentration (3.54 × 10-4 to 3.60 × 10-3 mol fraction of MnCl2) at 773K. From OCP measurements, values for activity coefficient varied from 0.014 to 0.0071. Diffusion coefficients varied with concentration and differed based on measurement method (CV, CA, or CP). Based on cyclic Mn(II) ranged from 1.1 to 2.8 × 10-5 cm2/s depending on concentration.

  7. Characterization of glial cell K-Cl cotransport.

    PubMed

    Gagnon, Kenneth B E; Adragna, Norma C; Fyffe, Robert E W; Lauf, Peter K

    2007-01-01

    The molecular mechanism of K-Cl cotransport (KCC) consists of at least 4 isoforms, KCC 1, 2, 3, and 4 which, in multiple combinations, exist in most cells, including erythrocytes and neuronal cells. We utilized reverse-transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and ion flux studies to characterize KCC activity in an immortalized in vitro cell model for fibrous astrocytes, the rat C6 glioblastoma cell. Isoform-specific sets of oligonucleotide primers were synthesized for NKCC1, KCC1, KCC2, KCC3, KCC4, and also for NKCC1 and actin. K-Cl cotransport activity was determined by measuring either the furosemide-sensitive, or the Cl(-)-dependent bumetanide-insensitive Rb(+) (a K(+) congener) influx in the presence of the Na/K pump inhibitor ouabain. Rb(+) influx was measured at a fixed external Cl concentrations, [Cl(-)](e), as a function of varying external Rb concentrations, [Rb(+)](e), and at a fixed [Rb(+)](e) as a function of varying [Cl(-)](e), and with equimolar Cl replacement by anions of the chaotropic series. RT-PCR of C6 glioblastoma (C6) cells identified mRNA for three KCC isoforms (1, 3, and 4). NKCC1 mRNA was also detected. The apparent K(m) for KCC-mediated Rb(+) influx was 15 mM [Rb(+)](e), and V(max) 12.5 nmol Rb(+) * mg protein(-1) * minute(-1). The calculated apparent K(m) for external Cl(-) was 13 mM and V(max) 14.4 nmol Rb(+) * mg protein(-1) * minute(-1). The anion selectivity sequence of the furosemide-sensitive Rb(+) influx was Cl(-)>Br-=NO(3)(-)>I(-)=SCN(-)>Sfm(-) (sulfamate). Established activators of K-Cl cotransport, hyposmotic shock and N-ethylmaleimide (NEM) pretreatment, stimulated furosemide-sensitive Rb(+) influx. A ñ50% NEM-induced loss of intracellular K(+) was prevented by furosemide. We have identified by RT-PCR the presence of three distinct KCC isoforms (1, 3, and 4) in rat C6 glioblastoma cells, and functionally characterized the anion selectivity and kinetics of their collective sodium-independent cation-chloride cotransport

  8. Stimulation by unsaturated fatty acid of squalene uptake in rat liver microsomes.

    PubMed

    Chin, J; Bloch, K

    1985-07-01

    Supernatant protein factor (SPF) and anionic phospholipids such as phosphatidylglycerol (PG) stimulate squalene epoxidase activity in rat liver microsomes by promoting [3H]squalene uptake as well as substrate translocation (Chin, J., and K. Bloch. 1984. J. Biol. Chem. 259: 11735-11738). This process is postulated to be membrane-mediated and not carrier-mediated. Here we show that treatment of PG with phospholipase A2 in the presence of bovine serum albumin abolishes the stimulatory effect of SPF on epoxidase activity. Disaturated fatty acyl-PGs are not as effective as egg yolk lecithin PG in the SPF effect. These findings suggest an important role for the unsaturated fatty acid moiety of PG. We also show that at submicellar concentrations, cis-unsaturated fatty acids stimulate microsomal epoxidase activity whereas saturated fatty acids do not. This effect is due to an increase in substrate uptake which in turn may facilitate substrate availability to the enzyme.

  9. Influence of Ca2+ on the mechanosensitivity of the hair cells in the lateral line organs of Necturus maculosus.

    PubMed

    Jørgensen, F

    1983-08-01

    The degree of synchronization (DOS) between the afferent spike activity from one stitch of the lateral line of Necturus maculosus (in vivo) and the mechanical stimulation of one neuromast of the same stitch was measured under different circumstances. The DOS was found to be independent of changes in the concentration of monovalent cations (Na+, K+ and choline+) in the bulk solution at high Ca concentration (1 mM). DOS was also independent of the Ca concentration in the range 1 mM-1 microM in Tris-HCl buffer, but was markedly reduced at Ca = 10 microM in MOPS-KOH buffer. The reduced DOS, however, could be restored by addition of 10-20 mM KCl. 5 mM of 4-aminopyridine did not influence the DOS at high Ca concentration, but completely reduced DOS at Ca = 10 microM. D600 (a methoxy derivative of verapamil) decreased DOS both at high and low Ca concentration.

  10. Infrared neural stimulation induces intracellular Ca2+ release mediated by phospholipase C.

    PubMed

    Moreau, David; Lefort, Claire; Pas, Jolien; Bardet, Sylvia M; Leveque, Philippe; O'Connor, Rodney P

    2018-02-01

    The influence of infrared laser pulses on intracellular Ca 2+ signaling was investigated in neural cell lines with fluorescent live cell imaging. The probe Fluo-4 was used to measure Ca 2+ in HT22 mouse hippocampal neurons and nonelectrically excitable U87 human glioblastoma cells exposed to 50 to 500 ms infrared pulses at 1470 nm. Fluorescence recordings of Fluo-4 demonstrated that infrared stimulation induced an instantaneous intracellular Ca 2+ transient with similar dose-response characteristics in hippocampal neurons and glioblastoma cells (half-maximal effective energy density EC 50 of around 58 J.cm -2 ). For both type of cells, the source of the infrared-induced Ca 2+ transients was found to originate from intracellular stores and to be mediated by phospholipase C and IP 3 -induced Ca 2+ release from the endoplasmic reticulum. The activation of phosphoinositide signaling by IR light is a new mechanism of interaction relevant to infrared neural stimulation that will also be widely applicable to nonexcitable cell types. The prospect of infrared optostimulation of the PLC/IP 3 cell signaling cascade has many potential applications including the development of optoceutical therapeutics. © 2017 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  11. Subcellular storage and release mode of the novel 18F-labeled sympathetic nerve PET tracer LMI1195.

    PubMed

    Chen, Xinyu; Werner, Rudolf A; Lapa, Constantin; Nose, Naoko; Hirano, Mitsuru; Javadi, Mehrbod S; Robinson, Simon; Higuchi, Takahiro

    2018-02-06

    18 F-N-[3-bromo-4-(3-fluoro-propoxy)-benzyl]-guanidine ( 18 F-LMI1195) is a new class of PET tracer designed for sympathetic nervous imaging of the heart. The favorable image quality with high and specific neural uptake has been previously demonstrated in animals and humans, but intracellular behavior is not yet fully understood. The aim of the present study is to verify whether it is taken up in storage vesicles and released in company with vesicle turnover. Both vesicle-rich (PC12) and vesicle-poor (SK-N-SH) norepinephrine-expressing cell lines were used for in vitro tracer uptake studies. After 2 h of 18 F-LMI1195 preloading into both cell lines, effects of stimulants for storage vesicle turnover (high concentration KCl (100 mM) or reserpine treatment) were measured at 10, 20, and 30 min. 131 I-meta-iodobenzylguanidine ( 131 I-MIBG) served as a reference. Both high concentration KCl and reserpine enhanced 18 F-LMI1195 washout from PC12 cells, while tracer retention remained stable in the SK-N-SH cells. After 30 min of treatment, 18 F-LMI1195 releasing index (percentage of tracer released from cells) from vesicle-rich PC12 cells achieved significant differences compared to cells without treatment condition. In contrast, such effect could not be observed using vesicle-poor SK-N-SH cell lines. Similar tracer kinetics after KCl or reserpine treatment were also observed using 131 I-MIBG. In case of KCl exposure, Ca 2 +-free buffer with the calcium chelator, ethylenediaminetetracetic acid (EDTA), could suppress the tracer washout from PC12 cells. This finding is consistent with the tracer release being mediated by Ca 2 + influx resulting from membrane depolarization. Analogous to 131 I-MIBG, the current in vitro tracer uptake study confirmed that 18 F-LMI1195 is also stored in vesicles in PC12 cells and released along with vesicle turnover. Understanding the basic kinetics of 18 F-LMI1195 at a subcellular level is important for the design of clinical imaging protocols

  12. The taste of KCl - What a difference a sugar makes.

    PubMed

    Ben Abu, Natalie; Harries, Daniel; Voet, Hillary; Niv, Masha Y

    2018-07-30

    Dramatic increase in NaCl consumption lead to sodium intake beyond health guidelines. KCl substitution helps reduce sodium intake but results in a bitter-metallic off-taste. Two disaccharides, trehalose and sucrose, were tested in order to untangle the chemical (increase in effective concentration of KCl due to sugar addition) from the sensory effects. The bitter-metallic taste of KCl was reduced by these sugars, while saltiness was enhanced or unaltered. The perceived sweetness of sugar, regardless of its type and concentration, was an important factor in KCl taste modulation. Though KCl was previously shown to increase the chemical activity of trehalose but not of sucrose, we found that it suppressed the perceived sweetness of both sugars. Therefore, sensory integration was the dominant factor in the tested KCl-sugar combinations. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  13. Inactivation of Ca2+-induced ciliary reversal by high-salt extraction in the cilia of Paramecium.

    PubMed

    Kutomi, Osamu; Seki, Makoto; Nakamura, Shogo; Kamachi, Hiroyuki; Noguchi, Munenori

    2013-10-01

    Intracellular Ca(2+) induces ciliary reversal and backward swimming in Paramecium. However, it is not known how the Ca(2+) signal controls the motor machinery to induce ciliary reversal. We found that demembranated cilia on the ciliated cortical sheets from Paramecium caudatum lost the ability to undergo ciliary reversal after brief extraction with a solution containing 0.5 M KCl. KNO(3), which is similar to KCl with respect to chaotropic effect; it had the same effect as that of KCl on ciliary response. Cyclic AMP antagonizes Ca(2+)-induced ciliary reversal. Limited trypsin digestion prevents endogenous A-kinase and cAMP-dependent phosphorylation of an outer arm dynein light chain and induces ciliary reversal. However, the trypsin digestion prior to the high-salt extraction did not affect the inhibition of Ca(2+)-induced ciliary reversal caused by the high-salt extraction. Furthermore, during the course of the high-salt extraction, some axonemal proteins were extracted from ciliary axonemes, suggesting that they may be responsible for Ca(2+)-induced ciliary reversal.

  14. Microfluidic glucose stimulation reveals limited coordination of intracellular Ca2+ activity oscillations in pancreatic islets

    PubMed Central

    Rocheleau, Jonathan V.; Walker, Glenn M.; Head, W. Steven; McGuinness, Owen P.; Piston, David W.

    2004-01-01

    The pancreatic islet is a functional microorgan involved in maintaining normoglycemia through regulated secretion of insulin and other hormones. Extracellular glucose stimulates insulin secretion from islet β cells through an increase in redox state, which can be measured by NAD(P)H autofluorescence. Glucose concentrations over ≈7 mM generate synchronous oscillations in β cell intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i), which lead to pulsatile insulin secretion. Prevailing models assume that the pancreatic islet acts as a functional syncytium, and the whole islet [Ca2+]i response has been modeled in terms of islet bursting and pacemaker models. To test these models, we developed a microfluidic device capable of partially stimulating an islet, while allowing observation of the NAD(P)H and [Ca2+]i responses. We show that β cell [Ca2+]i oscillations occur only within regions stimulated with more than ≈6.6 mM glucose. Furthermore, we show that tolbutamide, an antagonist of the ATP-sensitive K+ channel, allows these oscillations to travel farther into the nonstimulated regions of the islet. Our approach shows that the extent of Ca2+ propagation across the islet depends on a delicate interaction between the degree of coupling and the extent of ATP-sensitive K+-channel activation and illustrates an experimental paradigm that will have utility for many other biological systems. PMID:15317941

  15. Intercellular ultrafast Ca2+ wave in vascular smooth muscle cells: numerical and experimental study

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Quijano, J. C.; Raynaud, F.; Nguyen, D.; Piacentini, N.; Meister, J. J.

    2016-08-01

    Vascular smooth muscle cells exhibit intercellular Ca2+ waves in response to local mechanical or KCl stimulation. Recently, a new type of intercellular Ca2+ wave was observed in vitro in a linear arrangement of smooth muscle cells. The intercellular wave was denominated ultrafast Ca2+ wave and it was suggested to be the result of the interplay between membrane potential and Ca2+ dynamics which depended on influx of extracellular Ca2+, cell membrane depolarization and its intercel- lular propagation. In the present study we measured experimentally the conduction velocity of the membrane depolarization and performed simulations of the ultrafast Ca2+ wave along coupled smooth muscle cells. Numerical results reproduced a wide spectrum of experimental observations, including Ca2+ wave velocity, electrotonic membrane depolarization along the network, effects of inhibitors and independence of the Ca2+ wave speed on the intracellular stores. The numerical data also provided new physiological insights suggesting ranges of crucial model parameters that may be altered experimentally and that could significantly affect wave kinetics allowing the modulation of the wave characteristics experimentally. Numerical and experimental results supported the hypothesis that the propagation of membrane depolarization acts as an intercellular messenger mediating intercellular ultrafast Ca2+ waves in smooth muscle cells.

  16. The AKAP Cypher/Zasp contributes to β-adrenergic/PKA stimulation of cardiac CaV1.2 calcium channels.

    PubMed

    Yu, Haijie; Yuan, Can; Westenbroek, Ruth E; Catterall, William A

    2018-06-04

    Stimulation of the L-type Ca 2+ current conducted by Ca V 1.2 channels in cardiac myocytes by the β-adrenergic/protein kinase A (PKA) signaling pathway requires anchoring of PKA to the Ca V 1.2 channel by an A-kinase anchoring protein (AKAP). However, the AKAP(s) responsible for regulation in vivo remain unknown. Here, we test the role of the AKAP Cypher/Zasp in β-adrenergic regulation of Ca V 1.2 channels using physiological studies of cardiac ventricular myocytes from young-adult mice lacking the long form of Cypher/Zasp (LCyphKO mice). These myocytes have increased protein levels of Ca V 1.2, PKA, and calcineurin. In contrast, the cell surface density of Ca V 1.2 channels and the basal Ca 2+ current conducted by Ca V 1.2 channels are significantly reduced without substantial changes to kinetics or voltage dependence. β-adrenergic regulation of these L-type Ca 2+ currents is also significantly reduced in myocytes from LCyphKO mice, whether calculated as a stimulation ratio or as net-stimulated Ca 2+ current. At 100 nM isoproterenol, the net β-adrenergic-Ca 2+ current conducted by Ca V 1.2 channels was reduced to 39 ± 12% of wild type. However, concentration-response curves for β-adrenergic stimulation of myocytes from LCyphKO mice have concentrations that give a half-maximal response similar to those for wild-type mice. These results identify Cypher/Zasp as an important AKAP for β-adrenergic regulation of cardiac Ca V 1.2 channels. Other AKAPs may work cooperatively with Cypher/Zasp to give the full magnitude of β-adrenergic regulation of Ca V 1.2 channels observed in vivo. This is a work of the U.S. Government and is not subject to copyright protection in the United States. Foreign copyrights may apply.

  17. Phospholipid Requirements of Ca++-Stimulated, Mg++-Dependent ATP hydrolysis in Rat Brain Synaptic Membranes

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1989-01-01

    ATPase is a negative charge around the enzyme based on the observation that Ca++/Mg++-ATPase reconstituted in phosphotidylcholine vesicles is...stimulated by calmodulin, but purified ATPase in phosphotidylserine vesicles is not because the enzyme is already maximally active. Stimulation of the

  18. Rapid increase in red blood cell density driven by K:Cl cotransport in a subset of sickle cell anemia reticulocytes and discocytes.

    PubMed

    Fabry, M E; Romero, J R; Buchanan, I D; Suzuka, S M; Stamatoyannopoulos, G; Nagel, R L; Canessa, M

    1991-07-01

    We have previously demonstrated that young normal (AA) and sickle cell anemia (SS) red blood cells are capable of a volume regulatory decrease response (VRD) driven by a K:Cl cotransporter that is activated by low pH or hypotonic conditions. We now report on the characteristics of young SS cells (SS2, discocytes) capable of rapid increase in density in response to swelling. We have isolated cells with high VRD response (H-VRD) and low VRD response (L-VRD) cells by incubation and density-gradient centrifugation under hypotonic conditions. Comparison of these cells in patients homozygous for hemoglobin (Hb)S indicated that H-VRD cells have 91% more reticulocytes (P less than 9 x 10(-9) than L-VRD cells, 25% less HbF (P less than 5.5 x 10(-5), 106% more NEM (N-methylmaleimide)-stimulated K:Cl cotransport activity (P less than 2 x 10(-4), and 86% more volume-stimulated K:Cl cotransport activity (P less than 1.8 x 10(-3). H-VRD and L-VRD cells have similar G-6-PD and Na+/H+ antiport activity. In agreement with the reduced percent HbF in H-VRD cells, F cells (red blood cells that contain fetal Hb) are depleted from the H-VRD population; however, F reticulocytes are enriched in the H-VRD population to the same extent as non-F reticulocytes, which suggests that both F and non-F reticulocytes have a similar initial distribution of volume-sensitive K:Cl cotransport activity but that it may be more rapidly inactivated in F than in S reticulocytes. We find that H-VRD cells consist of 20% reticulocytes (or 79% of all reticulocytes in SS2) and 80% more mature cells. This study demonstrates the role of K:Cl cotransport in determining red blood cell density, the heterogeneity of K:Cl cotransport activity in reticulocytes, and the capacity for rapid change in the density of reticulocytes with high K:Cl cotransport activity. We speculate that the H-VRD population may be more susceptible to generation of dense and irreversibly sickled cells.

  19. Native low-density lipoprotein uptake by macrophage colony-stimulating factor-differentiated human macrophages is mediated by macropinocytosis and micropinocytosis.

    PubMed

    Anzinger, Joshua J; Chang, Janet; Xu, Qing; Buono, Chiara; Li, Yifu; Leyva, Francisco J; Park, Bum-Chan; Greene, Lois E; Kruth, Howard S

    2010-10-01

    To examine the pinocytotic pathways mediating native low-density lipoprotein (LDL) uptake by human macrophage colony-stimulating factor-differentiated macrophages (the predominant macrophage phenotype in human atherosclerotic plaques). We identified the kinase inhibitor SU6656 and the Rho GTPase inhibitor toxin B as inhibitors of macrophage fluid-phase pinocytosis of LDL. Assessment of macropinocytosis by time-lapse microscopy revealed that both drugs almost completely inhibited macropinocytosis, although LDL uptake and cholesterol accumulation by macrophages were only partially inhibited (approximately 40%) by these agents. Therefore, we investigated the role of micropinocytosis in mediating LDL uptake in macrophages and identified bafilomycin A1 as an additional partial inhibitor (approximately 40%) of macrophage LDL uptake that targeted micropinocytosis. When macrophages were incubated with both bafilomycin A1 and SU6656, inhibition of LDL uptake was additive (reaching 80%), showing that these inhibitors target different pathways. Microscopic analysis of fluid-phase uptake pathways in these macrophages confirmed that LDL uptake occurs through both macropinocytosis and micropinocytosis. Our findings show that human macrophage colony-stimulating factor-differentiated macrophages take up native LDL by macropinocytosis and micropinocytosis, underscoring the importance of both pathways in mediating LDL uptake by these cells.

  20. Synchronized Astrocytic Ca2+ Responses in Neurovascular Coupling during Somatosensory Stimulation and for the Resting State.

    PubMed

    Gu, Xiaochun; Chen, Wei; Volkow, Nora D; Koretsky, Alan P; Du, Congwu; Pan, Yingtian

    2018-06-26

    The role of astrocytes in neurovascular coupling (NVC) is unclear. Here, we applied a multimodality imaging approach to concomitantly measure synchronized neuronal or astrocytic Ca 2+ and hemodynamic changes in the mouse somatosensory cortex at rest and during sensory electrical stimulation. Strikingly, we found that low-frequency stimulation (0.3-1 Hz), which consistently evokes fast neuronal Ca 2+ transients (6.0 ± 2.7 ms latency) that always precede vascular responses, does not always elicit astrocytic Ca 2+ transients (313 ± 65 ms latency). However, the magnitude of the hemodynamic response is increased when astrocytic transients occur, suggesting a facilitatory role of astrocytes in NVC. High-frequency stimulation (5-10 Hz) consistently evokes a large, delayed astrocytic Ca 2+ accumulation (3.48 ± 0.09 s latency) that is temporarily associated with vasoconstriction, suggesting a role for astrocytes in resetting NVC. At rest, neuronal, but not astrocytic, Ca 2+ fluctuations correlate with hemodynamic low-frequency oscillations. Taken together, these results support a role for astrocytes in modulating, but not triggering, NVC. Copyright © 2018 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  1. Potassium transport in monkey erythrocytes.

    PubMed

    Stewart, G W; Blackstock, E J; Hall, A C; Ellory, J C

    1989-01-01

    K transport in Rhesus and Cynomolgus monkey erythrocytes has been characterised and compared to that in human erythrocytes. Transport due to the NaK pump, residual (diffusional) leak, volume-, pressure- and N-ethyl-maleimide-stimulated KCl system and internal Ca2+-stimulated K channel were similar to that in man but in the monkey it differed, in lacking the loop-diuretic-sensitive NaKCl cotransport system.

  2. Evidence for CGRP re-uptake in rat dura mater encephali

    PubMed Central

    Gupta, Saurabh; Amrutkar, Dipak Vasantrao; Mataji, Aydin; Salmasi, Hassan; Hay-Schmidt, Anders; Sheykhzade, Majid; Messlinger, Karl; Olesen, Jes; Jansen-Olesen, Inger

    2010-01-01

    BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) is widely distributed in the trigeminovascular system and released from sensory fibres of the cranial dura mater upon noxious stimulation. Such release may be a mechanism underlying migraine headache. Based on data from guinea pig basilar artery preparations, we have here studied CGRP release and uptake in an organ preparation of the hemisected rat skull. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH CGRP release from the cranial dura was quantified by a commercial enzyme-linked immunoassay. CGRP was depleted using repetitive challenges of capsaicin. After incubating the tissue with CGRP for 20 min and extensive washing, another capsaicin challenge was performed. Immunohistochemistry was used to visualize CGRP immunofluorescence in dural nerve fibres. KEY RESULTS Capsaicin-induced CGRP release was attenuated by the transient receptor potential vanilloid receptor type I antagonist capsazepine or by Ca2+-free solutions. After the CGRP-depleted preparation had been exposed to exogenous CGRP, capsaicin-induced CGRP release was increased compared to the challenge just prior to incubation. CGRP uptake was not influenced by Ca2+-free solutions. Olcegepant and CGRP8–37 (CGRP receptor antagonists) did not affect uptake of CGRP. However, a monoclonal CGRP-binding antibody decreased CGRP uptake significantly. Release of CGRP after incubation was attenuated by Ca2+-free solutions and by capsazepine. Immunohistochemical assays indicated a weak trend towards CGRP uptake in rat dura mater. CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS We have presented evidence for CGRP uptake in nerves and its re-release in rat dura mater. This may have implications for the pathophysiology and treatment of migraine. PMID:20804493

  3. The C2 domain of PKCalpha is a Ca2+ -dependent PtdIns(4,5)P2 sensing domain: a new insight into an old pathway.

    PubMed

    Sánchez-Bautista, Sonia; Marín-Vicente, Consuelo; Gómez-Fernández, Juan C; Corbalán-García, Senena

    2006-10-06

    The C2 domain is a targeting domain that responds to intracellular Ca2+ signals in classical protein kinases (PKCs) and mediates the translocation of its host protein to membranes. Recent studies have revealed a new motif in the C2 domain, named the lysine-rich cluster, that interacts with acidic phospholipids. The purpose of this work was to characterize the molecular mechanism by which PtdIns(4,5)P2 specifically interacts with this motif. Using a combination of isothermal titration calorimetry, fluorescence resonance energy transfer and time-lapse confocal microscopy, we show here that Ca2+ specifically binds to the Ca2+ -binding region, facilitating PtdIns(4,5)P2 access to the lysine-rich cluster. The magnitude of PtdIns(4,5)P2 binding is greater than in the case of other polyphosphate phosphatidylinositols. Very importantly, the residues involved in PtdIns(4,5)P2 binding are essential for the plasma membrane localization of PKCalpha when RBL-2H3 cells are stimulated through their IgE receptors. Additionally, CFP-PH and CFP-C1 domains were used as bioprobes to demonstrate the co-existence of PtdIns(4,5)P2 and diacylglycerol in the plasma membrane, and it was shown that although a fraction of PtdIns(4,5)P2 is hydrolyzed to generate diacylglycerol and IP3, an important amount still remains in the membrane where it is available to activate PKCalpha. These findings entail revision of the currently accepted model of PKCalpha recruitment to the membrane and its activation.

  4. Diagnosis of Pediatric Hyperthyroidism: Technetium 99 Uptake Versus Thyroid Stimulating Immunoglobulins

    PubMed Central

    Misra, Madhusmita; Levitsky, Lynne L.

    2015-01-01

    Background: Treatment with antithyroid drugs is effective in conditions of increased thyroid hormone production (mostly Graves' Disease; GD), but not in subacute thyroiditis (SAT) or autoimmune thyroiditis (AIT). Positive thyroid stimulating immunoglobulins (TSI) make GD likely. However, not all children with GD have increased TSI. Uptake studies with 123I or 99Tc (99mTc) provide accurate and rapid diagnosis but are expensive and involve radiation exposure. Our objective was to compare TSI with 99mTc uptake for diagnosis of pediatric hyperthyroidism. Methods: We performed a retrospective chart review of hyperthyroid children who had both TSI estimation and 99mTc uptake assessment at presentation. Based on subsequent laboratory studies and follow-up, 37 had GD and 10 had non-GD thyroiditis. The TSI index was considered positive (TSI+) when it was above the upper limit of normal. 99mTc uptake was considered positive (Tc+) for any uptake >0.4% and negative (and low) (Tc-) for uptake ≤0.4%. Results: Forty-seven youth (83% females), aged 12.3±4.6 years, presented with a suppressed thyrotropin (TSH) and elevated free thyroxine and total triiodothyronine. All 37 patients with GD were Tc+ (100% sensitivity and specificity). The sensitivity of TSI for diagnosing GD was 84%, and the specificity was 100%. Six patients with GD were discordant with Tc+ but TSI–. Elevated TSI correlated with Tc+ (p=0.01) with a degree of agreement (kappa) of 0.69. Conclusion: 99mTc has excellent specificity and sensitivity in diagnosing GD. Given additional costs of 99mTc (two and a half times as much as TSI), it is reasonable to reserve 99mTc uptake assessment for hyperthyroidism of unclear etiology and negative TSI. PMID:25257665

  5. Diagnosis of pediatric hyperthyroidism: technetium 99 uptake versus thyroid stimulating immunoglobulins.

    PubMed

    Baskaran, Charumathi; Misra, Madhusmita; Levitsky, Lynne L

    2015-01-01

    Treatment with antithyroid drugs is effective in conditions of increased thyroid hormone production (mostly Graves' Disease; GD), but not in subacute thyroiditis (SAT) or autoimmune thyroiditis (AIT). Positive thyroid stimulating immunoglobulins (TSI) make GD likely. However, not all children with GD have increased TSI. Uptake studies with (123)I or (99)Tc ((99m)Tc) provide accurate and rapid diagnosis but are expensive and involve radiation exposure. Our objective was to compare TSI with (99m)Tc uptake for diagnosis of pediatric hyperthyroidism. We performed a retrospective chart review of hyperthyroid children who had both TSI estimation and (99m)Tc uptake assessment at presentation. Based on subsequent laboratory studies and follow-up, 37 had GD and 10 had non-GD thyroiditis. The TSI index was considered positive (TSI+) when it was above the upper limit of normal. (99m)Tc uptake was considered positive (Tc+) for any uptake >0.4% and negative (and low) (Tc-) for uptake ≤0.4%. Forty-seven youth (83% females), aged 12.3±4.6 years, presented with a suppressed thyrotropin (TSH) and elevated free thyroxine and total triiodothyronine. All 37 patients with GD were Tc+ (100% sensitivity and specificity). The sensitivity of TSI for diagnosing GD was 84%, and the specificity was 100%. Six patients with GD were discordant with Tc+ but TSI-. Elevated TSI correlated with Tc+ (p=0.01) with a degree of agreement (kappa) of 0.69. (99m)Tc has excellent specificity and sensitivity in diagnosing GD. Given additional costs of (99m)Tc (two and a half times as much as TSI), it is reasonable to reserve (99m)Tc uptake assessment for hyperthyroidism of unclear etiology and negative TSI.

  6. Olfactory CNG channel desensitization by Ca2+/CaM via the B1b subunit affects response termination but not sensitivity to recurring stimulation.

    PubMed

    Song, Yijun; Cygnar, Katherine D; Sagdullaev, Botir; Valley, Matthew; Hirsh, Sarah; Stephan, Aaron; Reisert, Johannes; Zhao, Haiqing

    2008-05-08

    Ca2+/calmodulin-mediated negative feedback is a prototypical regulatory mechanism for Ca2+-permeable ion channels. In olfactory sensory neurons (OSNs), such regulation on the cyclic nucleotide-gated (CNG) channel is considered a major mechanism of OSN adaptation. To determine the role of Ca2+/calmodulin desensitization of the olfactory CNG channel, we introduced a mutation in the channel subunit CNGB1b in mice that rendered the channel resistant to fast desensitization by Ca2+/calmodulin. Contrary to expectations, mutant OSNs showed normal receptor current adaptation to repeated stimulation. Rather, they displayed slower response termination and, consequently, reduced ability to transmit olfactory information to the olfactory bulb. They also displayed reduced response decline during sustained odorant exposure. These results suggest that Ca2+/calmodulin-mediated CNG channel fast desensitization is less important in regulating the sensitivity to recurring stimulation than previously thought and instead functions primarily to terminate OSN responses.

  7. Unexpected stimulation of soil methane uptake as emergent property of agricultural soils following bio-based residue application.

    PubMed

    Ho, Adrian; Reim, Andreas; Kim, Sang Yoon; Meima-Franke, Marion; Termorshuizen, Aad; de Boer, Wietse; van der Putten, Wim H; Bodelier, Paul L E

    2015-10-01

    Intensification of agriculture to meet the global food, feed, and bioenergy demand entail increasing re-investment of carbon compounds (residues) into agro-systems to prevent decline of soil quality and fertility. However, agricultural intensification decreases soil methane uptake, reducing, and even causing the loss of the methane sink function. In contrast to wetland agricultural soils (rice paddies), the methanotrophic potential in well-aerated agricultural soils have received little attention, presumably due to the anticipated low or negligible methane uptake capacity in these soils. Consequently, a detailed study verifying or refuting this assumption is still lacking. Exemplifying a typical agricultural practice, we determined the impact of bio-based residue application on soil methane flux, and determined the methanotrophic potential, including a qualitative (diagnostic microarray) and quantitative (group-specific qPCR assays) analysis of the methanotrophic community after residue amendments over 2 months. Unexpectedly, after amendments with specific residues, we detected a significant transient stimulation of methane uptake confirmed by both the methane flux measurements and methane oxidation assay. This stimulation was apparently a result of induced cell-specific activity, rather than growth of the methanotroph population. Although transient, the heightened methane uptake offsets up to 16% of total gaseous CO2 emitted during the incubation. The methanotrophic community, predominantly comprised of Methylosinus may facilitate methane oxidation in the agricultural soils. While agricultural soils are generally regarded as a net methane source or a relatively weak methane sink, our results show that methane oxidation rate can be stimulated, leading to higher soil methane uptake. Hence, even if agriculture exerts an adverse impact on soil methane uptake, implementing carefully designed management strategies (e.g. repeated application of specific residues) may

  8. Glutathione adducts on sarcoplasmic/endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ ATPase Cys-674 regulate endothelial cell calcium stores and angiogenic function as well as promote ischemic blood flow recovery.

    PubMed

    Thompson, Melissa D; Mei, Yu; Weisbrod, Robert M; Silver, Marcy; Shukla, Praphulla C; Bolotina, Victoria M; Cohen, Richard A; Tong, Xiaoyong

    2014-07-18

    The sarco/endoplasmic reticulum Ca(2+) ATPase (SERCA) is key to Ca(2+) homeostasis and is redox-regulated by reversible glutathione (GSH) adducts on the cysteine (C) 674 thiol that stimulate Ca(2+) uptake activity and endothelial cell angiogenic responses in vitro. We found that mouse hind limb muscle ischemia induced S-glutathione adducts on SERCA in both whole muscle tissue and endothelial cells. To determine the role of S-glutathiolation, we used a SERCA 2 C674S heterozygote knock-in (SKI) mouse lacking half the key thiol. Following hind limb ischemia, SKI animals had decreased SERCA S-glutathione adducts and impaired blood flow recovery. We studied SKI microvascular endothelial cells in which total SERCA 2 expression was unchanged. Cultured SKI microvascular endothelial cells showed impaired migration and network formation compared with wild type (WT). Ca(2+) studies showed decreased nitric oxide (·NO)-induced (45)Ca(2+) uptake into the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) of SKI cells, while Fura-2 studies revealed lower Ca(2+) stores and decreased vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)- and ·NO-induced Ca(2+) influx. Adenoviral overexpression of calreticulin, an ER Ca(2+) binding protein, increased ionomycin-releasable stores, VEGF-induced Ca(2+) influx and endothelial cell migration. Taken together, these data indicate that the redox-sensitive Cys-674 thiol on SERCA 2 is required for normal endothelial cell Ca(2+) homeostasis and ischemia-induced angiogenic responses, revealing a novel redox control of angiogenesis via Ca(2+) stores. © 2014 by The American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Inc.

  9. Adrenaline Stimulates Glucagon Secretion by Tpc2-Dependent Ca2+ Mobilization From Acidic Stores in Pancreatic α-Cells.

    PubMed

    Hamilton, Alexander; Zhang, Quan; Salehi, Albert; Willems, Mara; Knudsen, Jakob G; Ringgaard, Anna K; Chapman, Caroline E; Gonzalez-Alvarez, Alejandro; Surdo, Nicoletta C; Zaccolo, Manuela; Basco, Davide; Johnson, Paul R V; Ramracheya, Reshma; Rutter, Guy A; Galione, Antony; Rorsman, Patrik; Tarasov, Andrei I

    2018-06-01

    Adrenaline is a powerful stimulus of glucagon secretion. It acts by activation of β-adrenergic receptors, but the downstream mechanisms have only been partially elucidated. Here, we have examined the effects of adrenaline in mouse and human α-cells by a combination of electrophysiology, imaging of Ca 2+ and PKA activity, and hormone release measurements. We found that stimulation of glucagon secretion correlated with a PKA- and EPAC2-dependent (inhibited by PKI and ESI-05, respectively) elevation of [Ca 2+ ] i in α-cells, which occurred without stimulation of electrical activity and persisted in the absence of extracellular Ca 2+ but was sensitive to ryanodine, bafilomycin, and thapsigargin. Adrenaline also increased [Ca 2+ ] i in α-cells in human islets. Genetic or pharmacological inhibition of the Tpc2 channel (that mediates Ca 2+ release from acidic intracellular stores) abolished the stimulatory effect of adrenaline on glucagon secretion and reduced the elevation of [Ca 2+ ] i Furthermore, in Tpc2-deficient islets, ryanodine exerted no additive inhibitory effect. These data suggest that β-adrenergic stimulation of glucagon secretion is controlled by a hierarchy of [Ca 2+ ] i signaling in the α-cell that is initiated by cAMP-induced Tpc2-dependent Ca 2+ release from the acidic stores and further amplified by Ca 2+ -induced Ca 2+ release from the sarco/endoplasmic reticulum. © 2018 by the American Diabetes Association.

  10. Vibrio cholerae ACE stimulates Ca(2+)-dependent Cl(-)/HCO(3)(-) secretion in T84 cells in vitro.

    PubMed

    Trucksis, M; Conn, T L; Wasserman, S S; Sears, C L

    2000-09-01

    ACE, accessory cholera enterotoxin, the third enterotoxin in Vibrio cholerae, has been reported to increase short-circuit current (I(sc)) in rabbit ileum and to cause fluid secretion in ligated rabbit ileal loops. We studied the ACE-induced change in I(sc) and potential difference (PD) in T84 monolayers mounted in modified Ussing chambers, an in vitro model of a Cl(-) secretory cell. ACE added to the apical surface alone stimulated a rapid increase in I(sc) and PD that was concentration dependent and immediately reversed when the toxin was removed. Ion replacement studies established that the current was dependent on Cl(-) and HCO(3)(-). ACE acted synergistically with the Ca(2+)-dependent acetylcholine analog, carbachol, to stimulate secretion in T84 monolayers. In contrast, the secretory response to cAMP or cGMP agonists was not enhanced by ACE. The ACE-stimulated secretion was dependent on extracellular and intracellular Ca(2+) but was not associated with an increase in intracellular cyclic nucleotides. We conclude that the mechanism of secretion by ACE involves Ca(2+) as a second messenger and that this toxin stimulates a novel Ca(2+)-dependent synergy.

  11. Decreased insulin-stimulated brown adipose tissue glucose uptake after short-term exercise training in healthy middle-aged men.

    PubMed

    Motiani, Piryanka; Virtanen, Kirsi A; Motiani, Kumail K; Eskelinen, Joonas J; Middelbeek, Roeland J; Goodyear, Laurie J; Savolainen, Anna M; Kemppainen, Jukka; Jensen, Jørgen; Din, Mueez U; Saunavaara, Virva; Parkkola, Riitta; Löyttyniemi, Eliisa; Knuuti, Juhani; Nuutila, Pirjo; Kalliokoski, Kari K; Hannukainen, Jarna C

    2017-10-01

    To test the hypothesis that high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT) improve brown adipose tissue (BAT) insulin sensitivity. Healthy middle-aged men (n = 18, age 47 years [95% confidence interval {CI} 49, 43], body mass index 25.3 kg/m 2 [95% CI 24.1-26.3], peak oxygen uptake (VO 2peak ) 34.8 mL/kg/min [95% CI 32.1, 37.4] ) were recruited and randomized into six HIIT or MICT sessions within 2 weeks. Insulin-stimulated glucose uptake was measured using 2-[ 18 F]flouro-2-deoxy-D-glucose positron-emission tomography in BAT, skeletal muscle, and abdominal and femoral subcutaneous and visceral white adipose tissue (WAT) depots before and after the training interventions. Training improved VO 2peak (P = .0005), insulin-stimulated glucose uptake into the quadriceps femoris muscle (P = .0009) and femoral subcutaneous WAT (P = .02) but not into BAT, with no difference between the training modes. Using pre-intervention BAT glucose uptake, we next stratified subjects into high BAT (>2.9 µmol/100 g/min; n = 6) or low BAT (<2.9 µmol/100 g/min; n = 12) groups. Interestingly, training decreased insulin-stimulated BAT glucose uptake in the high BAT group (4.0 [2.8, 5.5] vs 2.5 [1.7, 3.6]; training*BAT, P = .02), whereas there was no effect of training in the low BAT group (1.5 [1.2, 1.9] vs 1.6 [1.2, 2.0] µmol/100 g/min). Participants in the high BAT group had lower levels of inflammatory markers compared with those in the low BAT group. Participants with functionally active BAT have an improved metabolic profile compared with those with low BAT activity. Short-term exercise training decreased insulin-stimulated BAT glucose uptake in participants with active BAT, suggesting that training does not work as a potent stimulus for BAT activation. © 2017 The Authors. Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

  12. Endothelin‐1 suppresses insulin‐stimulated Akt phosphorylation and glucose uptake via GPCR kinase 2 in skeletal muscle cells

    PubMed Central

    Hoshi, Akimasa; Harada, Takuya; Higa, Tsunaki; Karki, Sarita; Terada, Koji; Higashi, Tsunehito; Mai, Yosuke; Nepal, Prabha; Mazaki, Yuichi; Miwa, Soichi

    2016-01-01

    Background and Purpose Endothelin‐1 (ET‐1) reduces insulin‐stimulated glucose uptake in skeletal muscle, inducing insulin resistance. Here, we have determined the molecular mechanisms underlying negative regulation by ET‐1 of insulin signalling. Experimental Approach We used the rat L6 skeletal muscle cells fully differentiated into myotubes. Changes in the phosphorylation of Akt was assessed by Western blotting. Effects of ET‐1 on insulin‐stimulated glucose uptake was assessed with [3H]‐2‐deoxy‐d‐glucose ([3H]2‐DG). The C‐terminus region of GPCR kinase 2 (GRK2‐ct), a dominant negative GRK2, was overexpressed in L6 cells using adenovirus‐mediated gene transfer. GRK2 expression was suppressed by transfection of the corresponding short‐interfering RNA (siRNA). Key Results In L6 myotubes, insulin elicited sustained Akt phosphorylation at Thr308 and Ser473, which was suppressed by ET‐1. The inhibitory effects of ET‐1 were prevented by treatment with a selective ETA receptor antagonist and a Gq protein inhibitor, overexpression of GRK2‐ct and knockdown of GRK2. Insulin increased [3H]2‐DG uptake rate in a concentration‐dependent manner. ET‐1 noncompetitively antagonized insulin‐stimulated [3H]2‐DG uptake. Blockade of ETA receptors, overexpression of GRK2‐ct and knockdown of GRK2 prevented the ET‐1‐induced suppression of insulin‐stimulated [3H]2‐DG uptake. In L6 myotubes overexpressing FLAG‐tagged GRK2, ET‐1 facilitated the interaction of endogenous Akt with FLAG‐GRK2. Conclusions and Implications Activation of ETA receptors with ET‐1 suppressed insulin‐induced Akt phosphorylation at Thr308 and Ser473 and [3H]2‐DG uptake in a GRK2‐dependent manner in skeletal muscle cells. These findings suggest that ETA receptors and GRK2 are potential targets for overcoming insulin resistance. PMID:26660861

  13. Coordinate downregulation of CaM kinase II and phospholamban accompanies contractile phenotype transition in the hyperthyroid rabbit soleus.

    PubMed

    Jiang, M; Xu, A; Jones, D L; Narayanan, N

    2004-09-01

    This study investigated the effects of l-thyroxine-induced hyperthyroidism on Ca(2+)/calmodulin (CaM)-dependent protein kinase (CaM kinase II)-mediated sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) protein phosphorylation, SR Ca(2+) pump (Ca(2+)-ATPase) activity, and contraction duration in slow-twitch soleus muscle of the rabbit. Phosphorylation of Ca(2+)-ATPase and phospholamban (PLN) by endogenous CaM kinase II was found to be significantly lower (30-50%) in soleus of the hyperthyroid compared with euthyroid rabbit. Western blotting analysis revealed higher levels of sarco(endo)plasmic reticulum Ca(2+)-ATPase (SERCA) 1 ( approximately 150%) Ca(2+) pump isoform, unaltered levels of SERCA2 Ca(2+) pump isoform, and lower levels of PLN ( approximately 50%) and delta-, beta-, and gamma-CaM kinase II (40 approximately 70%) in soleus of the hyperthyroid rabbit. SR vesicles from hyperthyroid rabbit soleus displayed approximately twofold higher ATP-energized Ca(2+) uptake and Ca(2+)-stimulated ATPase activities compared with that from euthyroid control. The V(max) of Ca(2+) uptake (in nmol Ca(2+).mg SR protein(-1).min(-1): euthyroid, 818 +/- 73; hyperthyroid, 1,649 +/- 90) but not the apparent affinity of the Ca(2+)-ATPase for Ca(2+) (euthyroid, 0.97 +/- 0.02 microM, hyperthyroid, 1.09 +/- 0.04 microM) differed significantly between the two groups. CaM kinase II-mediated stimulation of Ca(2+) uptake by soleus muscle SR was approximately 60% lower in the hyperthyroid compared with euthyroid. Isometric twitch force of soleus measured in situ was significantly greater ( approximately 36%), and the time to peak force and relaxation time were significantly lower ( approximately 30-40%), in the hyperthyroid. These results demonstrate that thyroid hormone-induced transition in contractile properties of the rabbit soleus is associated with coordinate downregulation of the expression and function of PLN and CaM kinase II and selective upregulation of the expression and function of SERCA1, but not

  14. Convergence of Ca2+-desensitizing mechanisms activated by forskolin and phenylephrine pretreatment, but not 8-bromo-cGMP.

    PubMed

    Porter, Melissa; Evans, Melissa C; Miner, Amy S; Berg, Krystina M; Ward, Kevin R; Ratz, Paul H

    2006-06-01

    Contractile stimuli can sensitize myosin to Ca2+ by activating RhoA kinase (ROK) and PKC that inhibit myosin light chain phosphatase (MLCP) activity. Relaxant stimuli, acting through PKA and PKG (cyclic nucleotide-dependent protein kinases), and pretreatment with contractile agents such as phenylephrine (PE), can desensitize myosin to Ca2+. It is unknown precisely how these stimuli cause Ca2+ desensitization. To test the hypothesis that PKA, PKG, and PE pretreatment signaling systems converge to cause relaxation by inhibition of ROK in intact, isolated tissues, we examined the effects of forskolin (FSK; PKA activation), 8-bromo-cGMP (8br-cGMP; PKG activation), and PE pretreatment on KCl-induced force maintenance in rabbit arteries, a response nearly completely dependent on ROK activation. PE pretreatment and agents activating PKA and PKG caused Ca2+ desensitization by inhibiting KCl-induced tonic force and MLC phosphorylation without inhibiting intracellular [Ca2+]. At pCa 5 in beta-escin-permeabilized muscle, FSK and 8b-cGMP accelerated the relaxation rate when tissues were returned to pCa 9, suggesting that both agents can elevate MLCP activity. However, a component of the Ca2+ desensitization attributed to PKG activation in intact tissues appeared to involve a MLC phosphorylation-independent component. Inhibition of KCl-induced tonic force by the ROK inhibitor, Y-27632, and by PE pretreatment, were synergistically potentiated by 8b-cGMP, but not FSK. FSK and PE pretreatment, but not 8b-cGMP, inhibited the KCl-induced increase in site-specific myosin phosphatase target protein-1 phosphorylation at Thr853. These data support the hypothesis that PKA and PE pretreatment converge on a common Ca2+-desensitization pathway, but that PKG can act by a mechanism different from that activated by PKA and PE pretreatment.

  15. Oxaloacetate- and acetoacetate-induced calcium efflux from mitochondria occurs by reversal of the uptake pathway.

    PubMed Central

    Bardsley, M E; Brand, M D

    1982-01-01

    1. Addition of oxaloacetate or acetoacetate to isolated rat liver mitochondria results in an efflux of Ca2+. Concomitant with this efflux is an immediate oxidation of endogenous nicotinamide nucleotides, a fall in the mitochondrial membrane potential and an increase in the rate of respiration. The primary effect in this sequence may be either (a) physiologically important stimulation of a Ca2+-efflux carrier, followed by Ca2+ re-uptake, a fall in membrane potential and increased respiration, or (b) physiologically unimportant damage to mitochondrial integrity, followed by a fall in membrane potential, increased respiration and Ca2+ efflux. 2. Ruthenium Red and EGTA will restore the increased respiratory rate to one approximating to the control rate of respiration. However, addition of lanthanide, at a concentration which inhibits the uptake but not the normal efflux of Ca2+, inhibits the rate of Ca2+ efflux induced by oxaloacetate or acetoacetate. Therefore the observed efflux is occurring by a reversal of the uptake pathway (uniporter) and thus follows the fall in membrane potential. 3. From these results we conclude that the decrease in membrane potential and increase in the rate of respiration seen during oxaloacetate- or acetoacetate-induced Ca2+ efflux cannot be accounted for by rapid Ca2+ cycling, but are due to damage to mitochondrial integrity. PMID:7082307

  16. Electron probe microanalysis of calcium release and magnesium uptake by endoplasmic reticulum in bee photoreceptors

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Baumann, O.; Walz, B.; Somlyo, A.V.

    Honey bee photoreceptors contain large sacs of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) that can be located unequivocally in freeze-dried cryosections. The elemental compositon of the ER was determined by electron probe x-ray microanalysis and was visualized in high-resolution x-ray maps. In the ER of dark-adapted photoreceptors, the Ca concentration was 47.5 {plus minus} 1.1 mmol/kg (dry weight). During a 3-sec nonsaturating light stimulus, {approximately}50% of the Ca content was released from the ER. Light stimulation also caused a highly significant increase in the Mg content of the ER; the ratio of Mg uptake to Ca released was {approximately}0.7. Our results show unambiguouslymore » that the ER is the source of Ca{sup 2+} release during cell stimulation and suggest the Mg{sup 2+} can nearly balance the charge movement of Ca{sup 2+}.« less

  17. A Ca sup 2+ influx associated with exocytosis is specifically abolished in a Paramecium exocytotic mutant

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Kerboeuf, D.; Cohen, J.

    1990-12-01

    A Paramecium possesses secretory organelles called trichocysts which are docked beneath the plasma membrane awaiting an external stimulus that triggers their exocytosis. Membrane fusion is the sole event provoked by the stimulation and can therefore be studied per se. Using 3 microM aminoethyl dextran as a vital secretagogue, we analyzed the movements of calcium (Ca{sup 2+}) during the discharge of trichocysts. We showed that (a) external Ca{sup 2+}, at least at 3 X 10(-7) M, is necessary for AED to induce exocytosis; (b) a dramatic and transient influx of Ca{sup 2+} as measured from {sup 45}Ca uptake is induced bymore » AED; (c) this influx is independent of the well-characterized voltage-operated Ca{sup 2+} channels of the ciliary membranes since it persists in a mutant devoid of these channels; and (d) this influx is specifically abolished in one of the mutants unable to undergo exocytosis, nd12. We propose that the Ca{sup 2+} influx induced by AED reflects an increase in membrane permeability through the opening of novel Ca{sup 2+} channel or the activation of other Ca{sup 2+} transport mechanism in the plasma membrane. The resulting rise in cytosolic Ca{sup 2+} concentration would in turn induce membrane fusion. The mutation nd12 would affect a gene product involved in the control of plasma membrane permeability to Ca{sup 2+}, specifically related to membrane fusion.« less

  18. Leucine facilitates the insulin-stimulated glucose uptake and insulin signaling in skeletal muscle cells: involving mTORC1 and mTORC2.

    PubMed

    Liu, Hui; Liu, Rui; Xiong, Yufang; Li, Xiang; Wang, Xiaolei; Ma, Yan; Guo, Huailan; Hao, Liping; Yao, Ping; Liu, Liegang; Wang, Di; Yang, Xuefeng

    2014-08-01

    Leucine, a branched-chain amino acid, has been shown to promote glucose uptake and increase insulin sensitivity in skeletal muscle, but the exact mechanism remains unestablished. We addressed this issue in cultured skeletal muscle cells in this study. Our results showed that leucine alone did not have an effect on glucose uptake or phosphorylation of protein kinase B (AKT), but facilitated the insulin-induced glucose uptake and AKT phosphorylation. The insulin-stimulated glucose uptake and AKT phosphorylation were inhibited by the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase inhibitor, wortmannin, but the inhibition was partially reversed by leucine. The inhibitor of mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1), rapamycin, had no effect on the insulin-stimulated glucose uptake, but eliminated the facilitating effect of leucine in the insulin-stimulated glucose uptake and AKT phosphorylation. In addition, leucine facilitation of the insulin-induced AKT phosphorylation was neutralized by knocking down the core component of the mammalian target of rapamycin complex 2 (mTORC2) with specific siRNA. Together, these findings show that leucine can facilitate the insulin-induced insulin signaling and glucose uptake in skeletal muscle cells through both mTORC1 and mTORC2, implicating the potential importance of this amino acid in glucose homeostasis and providing new mechanistic insights.

  19. Recombinant human thyrotropin stimulation prior to 131I therapy in toxic multinodular goitre with low radioactive iodine uptake.

    PubMed

    Azorín Belda, M J; Martínez Caballero, A; Figueroa Ardila, G C; Martínez Ramírez, M; Gómez Jaramillo, C A; Dolado Ardit, J I; Verdú Rico, J

    Stimulation with recombinant human thyrotropin (rhTSH) increases thyroid radioiodine uptake, and is an aid to 131 I therapy in non-toxic multinodular goitre (MNG). However, there are not many studies using rhTSH prior to 131 I in toxic multinodular goitre to improve hyperthyroidism and compressive symptoms. A prospective study was conducted on patients with MNG and hyperthyroidism. Patients were recruited consecutively and divided into group I, stimulated with 0.3mg of rhTSH before radioiodine therapy, and a control group or group II, without stimulation. Thyroid function, radioiodine thyroid uptake, thyroid weight, and compressive symptoms were measured, and patients were followed-up for 9 months. Group I consisted of 16 patients (14 women), with a mean age 69.7 years, and group II with 16 patients (12 women), with a mean age 70.7 years. After stimulation with 0.3mg rhTSH in group I, 131 I uptake (RAIU) at 24h increased by 78.4%, and the estimated absorbed dose by 89.3%. In group II, the estimated absorbed dose was lower than group I after stimulation with rhTSH (29.8Gy vs. 56.4Gy; P=0.001). At 9 months of follow-up, hyperthyroidism was controlled in 87.5% of patients in group I, and 56.2% in group II (P=0.049). The mean reduction in thyroid weight was higher in group I than in group II (39.3% vs. 26.9%; P=0.017), with a tendency towards subjective improvement of compressive symptoms in group I, although non-significant. Only 2 patients described tachycardias after rhTSH administration, which were resolved with beta-blockers. Stimulation with 0.3mg of recombinant human thyrotropin prior to radioiodine therapy achieves a reduction in thyroid weight and functional improvement in patients with hyperthyroidism and multinodular goitre with low uptake, and with no need for hospital admission. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier España, S.L.U. y SEMNIM. All rights reserved.

  20. Rapid Ca2+ flux through the transverse tubular membrane, activated by individual action potentials in mammalian skeletal muscle

    PubMed Central

    Launikonis, Bradley S; Stephenson, D George; Friedrich, Oliver

    2009-01-01

    Periods of low frequency stimulation are known to increase the net Ca2+ uptake in skeletal muscle but the mechanism responsible for this Ca2+ entry is not known. In this study a novel high-resolution fluorescence microscopy approach allowed the detection of an action potential-induced Ca2+ flux across the tubular (t-) system of rat extensor digitorum longus muscle fibres that appears to be responsible for the net uptake of Ca2+ in working muscle. Action potentials were triggered in the t-system of mechanically skinned fibres from rat by brief field stimulation and t-system [Ca2+] ([Ca2+]t-sys) and cytoplasmic [Ca2+] ([Ca2+]cyto) were simultaneously resolved on a confocal microscope. When initial [Ca2+]t-sys was ≥ 0.2 mm a Ca2+ flux from t-system to the cytoplasm was observed following a single action potential. The action potential-induced Ca2+ flux and associated t-system Ca2+ permeability decayed exponentially and displayed inactivation characteristics such that further Ca2+ entry across the t-system could not be observed after 2–3 action potentials at 10 Hz stimulation rate. When [Ca2+]t-sys was closer to 0.1 mm, a transient rise in [Ca2+]t-sys was observed almost concurrently with the increase in [Ca2+]cyto following the action potential. The change in direction of Ca2+ flux was consistent with changes in the direction of the driving force for Ca2+. This is the first demonstration of a rapid t-system Ca2+ flux associated with a single action potential in mammalian skeletal muscle. The properties of this channel are inconsistent with a flux through the L-type Ca2+ channel suggesting that an as yet unidentified t-system protein is conducting this current. This action potential-activated Ca2+ flux provides an explanation for the previously described Ca2+ entry and accumulation observed with prolonged, intermittent muscle activity. PMID:19332499

  1. Enhanced spontaneous Ca2+ events in endothelial cells reflect signalling through myoendothelial gap junctions in pressurized mesenteric arteries.

    PubMed

    Kansui, Yasuo; Garland, Christopher J; Dora, Kim A

    2008-08-01

    Increases in global Ca(2+) in the endothelium are a crucial step in releasing relaxing factors to modulate arterial tone. In the present study we investigated spontaneous Ca(2+) events in endothelial cells, and the contribution of smooth muscle cells to these Ca(2+) events, in pressurized rat mesenteric resistance arteries. Spontaneous Ca(2+) events were observed under resting conditions in 34% of cells. These Ca(2+) events were absent in arteries preincubated with either cyclopiazonic acid or U-73122, but were unaffected by ryanodine or nicotinamide. Stimulation of smooth muscle cell depolarization and contraction with either phenylephrine or high concentrations of KCl significantly increased the frequency of endothelial cell Ca(2+) events. The putative gap junction uncouplers carbenoxolone and 18alpha-glycyrrhetinic acid each inhibited spontaneous and evoked Ca(2+) events, and the movement of calcein from endothelial to smooth muscle cells. In addition, spontaneous Ca(2+) events were diminished by nifedipine, lowering extracellular Ca(2+) levels, or by blockers of non-selective Ca(2+) influx pathways. These findings suggest that in pressurized rat mesenteric arteries, spontaneous Ca(2+) events in the endothelial cells appear to originate from endoplasmic reticulum IP(3) receptors, and are subject to regulation by surrounding smooth muscle cells via myoendothelial gap junctions, even under basal conditions.

  2. In vivo monitoring of Ca2+ uptake into mitochondria of mouse skeletal muscle during contraction

    PubMed Central

    Rudolf, Rüdiger; Mongillo, Marco; Magalhães, Paulo J.; Pozzan, Tullio

    2004-01-01

    Although the importance of mitochondria in patho-physiology has become increasingly evident, it remains unclear whether these organelles play a role in Ca2+ handling by skeletal muscle. This undefined situation is mainly due to technical limitations in measuring Ca2+ transients reliably during the contraction–relaxation cycle. Using two-photon microscopy and genetically expressed “cameleon” Ca2+ sensors, we developed a robust system that enables the measurement of both cytoplasmic and mitochondrial Ca2+ transients in vivo. We show here for the first time that, in vivo and under highly physiological conditions, mitochondria in mammalian skeletal muscle take up Ca2+ during contraction induced by motor nerve stimulation and rapidly release it during relaxation. The mitochondrial Ca2+ increase is delayed by a few milliseconds compared with the cytosolic Ca2+ rise and occurs both during a single twitch and upon tetanic contraction. PMID:15314066

  3. Ca2+-mediated ascorbate release from coronary artery endothelial cells.

    PubMed

    Davis, Kim A; Samson, Sue E; Best, Kelly; Mallhi, Kanwaldeep K; Szewczyk, Magdalena; Wilson, John X; Kwan, Chiu-Yin; Grover, Ashok K

    2006-01-01

    1.--The addition of Ca(2+) ionophore A23187 or ATP to freshly isolated or cultured pig coronary artery endothelial cells (PCEC) potentiated the release of ascorbate (Asc). Cultured PCEC were used to characterize the Ca(2+)-mediated release. An increase in Ca(2+)-mediated Asc release was observed from PCEC preincubated with Asc, Asc-2-phosphate or dehydroascorbic acid (DHAA). 2.--The effects of various ATP analogs and inhibition by suramin were consistent with the ATP-induced release being mediated by P2Y2-like receptors. 3.--ATP-stimulated Asc release was Ca(2+)-mediated because (a) ATP analogs that increased Asc release also elevated cytosolic [Ca(2+)], (b) Ca(2+) ionophore A23187 and cyclopiazonic acid stimulated the Asc release, (c) removing extracellular Ca(2+) and chelating intracellular Ca(2+)inhibited the ATP-induced release, and (d) inositol-selective phospholipase C inhibitor U73122 also inhibited this release. 4.--Accumulation of Asc by PCEC was examined at Asc concentrations of 10 microM (Na(+)-Asc symporter not saturated) and 5 mM (Na(+)-Asc symporter saturated). At 10 microM Asc, A23187 and ATP caused an inhibition of Asc accumulation but at 5 mM Asc, both the agents caused a stimulation. Substituting gluconate for chloride did not affect the basal Asc uptake but it abolished the effects of A23187. 5.--PCEC but not pig coronary artery smooth muscle cells show a Ca(2+)- mediated Asc release pathway that may be activated by agents such as ATP.

  4. Insulin elicits a ROS-activated and an IP₃-dependent Ca²⁺ release, which both impinge on GLUT4 translocation.

    PubMed

    Contreras-Ferrat, Ariel; Llanos, Paola; Vásquez, César; Espinosa, Alejandra; Osorio-Fuentealba, César; Arias-Calderon, Manuel; Lavandero, Sergio; Klip, Amira; Hidalgo, Cecilia; Jaimovich, Enrique

    2014-05-01

    Insulin signaling includes generation of low levels of H2O2; however, its origin and contribution to insulin-stimulated glucose transport are unknown. We tested the impact of H2O2 on insulin-dependent glucose transport and GLUT4 translocation in skeletal muscle cells. H2O2 increased the translocation of GLUT4 with an exofacial Myc-epitope tag between the first and second transmembrane domains (GLUT4myc), an effect additive to that of insulin. The anti-oxidants N-acetyl L-cysteine and Trolox, the p47(phox)-NOX2 NADPH oxidase inhibitory peptide gp91-ds-tat or p47(phox) knockdown each reduced insulin-dependent GLUT4myc translocation. Importantly, gp91-ds-tat suppressed insulin-dependent H2O2 production. A ryanodine receptor (RyR) channel agonist stimulated GLUT4myc translocation and insulin stimulated RyR1-mediated Ca(2+) release by promoting RyR1 S-glutathionylation. This pathway acts in parallel to insulin-mediated stimulation of inositol-1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3)-activated Ca(2+) channels, in response to activation of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase and its downstream target phospholipase C, resulting in Ca(2+) transfer to the mitochondria. An inhibitor of IP3 receptors, Xestospongin B, reduced both insulin-dependent IP3 production and GLUT4myc translocation. We propose that, in addition to the canonical α,β phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase to Akt pathway, insulin engages both RyR-mediated Ca(2+) release and IP3-receptor-mediated mitochondrial Ca(2+) uptake, and that these signals jointly stimulate glucose uptake.

  5. The NADPH oxidase inhibitor diphenyleneiodonium is also a potent inhibitor of cholinesterases and the internal Ca2+ pump

    PubMed Central

    Tazzeo, T; Worek, F; Janssen, LJ

    2009-01-01

    Background and purpose: Diphenyleneiodonium (DPI) is often used as an NADPH oxidase inhibitor, but is increasingly being found to have unrelated side effects. We investigated its effects on smooth muscle contractions and the related mechanisms. Experimental approach: We studied isometric contractions in smooth muscle strips from bovine trachea. Cholinesterase activity was measured using a spectrophotometric assay; internal Ca2+ pump activity was assessed by Ca2+ uptake into smooth muscle microsomes. Key results: Contractions to acetylcholine were markedly enhanced by DPI (10−4 M), whereas those to carbachol (CCh) were not, suggesting a possible inhibition of cholinesterase. DPI markedly suppressed contractions evoked by CCh, KCl and 5-HT, and also unmasked phasic activity in otherwise sustained responses. Direct biochemical assays confirmed that DPI was a potent inhibitor of acetylcholinesterase and butyrylcholinesterase (IC50∼8 × 10−6 M and 6 × 10−7 M, respectively), following a readily reversible, mixed non-competitive type of inhibition. The inhibitory effects of DPI on CCh contractions were not mimicked by another NADPH oxidase inhibitor (apocynin), nor the Src inhibitors PP1 or PP2, ruling out an action through the NADPH oxidase signalling pathway. Several features of the DPI-mediated suppression of agonist-evoked responses (i.e. suppression of peak magnitudes and unmasking of phasic activity) are similar to those of cyclopiazonic acid, an inhibitor of the internal Ca2+ pump. Direct measurement of microsomal Ca2+ uptake revealed that DPI modestly inhibits the internal Ca2+ pump. Conclusions and implications: DPI inhibits cholinesterase activity and the internal Ca2+ pump in tracheal smooth muscle. PMID:19788497

  6. Time-dependent disturbances of chloride salts on overall redox reaction and luminescence in Vibrio fischeri.

    PubMed

    Yu, Zhenyang; Zhang, Jing; Hou, Meifang

    2018-05-01

    The redox state of NADH/NADPH balance (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide/nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate) is crucial in cellular homeostasis. Recent studies reported that sodium halide ions (NaX, X = F - , Cl - , Br - and I - ) stimulated NAD(P)H in Vibrio fischeri (VF). However, it remained unanswered whether this pattern applied in salts with other cations, e.g., K + , Mg 2+ and Ca 2+ , whose aquatic concentrations were increased by anthropogenic activities and climate change. Currently, VF were incubated with chloride salts, including KCl, MgCl 2 and CaCl 2 , and effects were measured in a time-dependent fashion. Both NADH and NADPH showed stimulation that increased over time, and the greatest maximum stimulation at 24 h was CaCl 2  > MgCl 2  > KCl. The changes of NADH/NADPH ratios over time in CaCl 2 , MgCl 2 and KCl were descendent, ascendant and stable, respectively. Simultaneously, FMN:NAD(P)H reaction catalyst (luciferase, in the form of expression levels of lux A and lux B), adenosine triphosphate and the expression levels of its regulating gene adk were also stimulated. The luminescence showed even more significant stimulations than the overall redox reaction. Together with earlier reported effects of NaCl, the chloride salts commonly disturbed the redox state and influenced the adaption of organisms to challenging environments. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  7. PTH modulation of NCC activity regulates TRPV5 Ca2+ reabsorption.

    PubMed

    Hoover, Robert S; Tomilin, Viktor; Hanson, Lauren; Pochynyuk, Oleh; Ko, Benjamin

    2016-01-15

    Since parathyroid hormone (PTH) is known to increase transient receptor potential vanilloid (TRPV)5 activity and decrease Na(+)-Cl(-) cotransporter (NCC) activity, we hypothesized that decreased NCC-mediated Na(+) reabsorption contributes to the enhanced TRPV5 Ca(2+) reabsorption seen with PTH. To test this, we used mDCT15 cells expressing functional TRPV5 and ruthenium red-sensitive (45)Ca(2+) uptake. PTH increased (45)Ca(2+) uptake to 8.8 ± 0.7 nmol·mg(-1)·min(-1) (n = 4, P < 0.01) and decreased NCC activity from 75.4 ± 2.7 to 20.3 ± 1.3 nmol·mg(-1)·min(-1) (n = 4, P < 0.01). Knockdown of Ras guanyl-releasing protein (RasGRP)1 had no baseline effect on (45)Ca(2+) uptake but significantly attenuated the response to PTH from a 45% increase (6.0 ± 0.2 to 8.7 ± 0.4 nmol·mg(-1)·min(-1)) in control cells to only 20% in knockdown cells (6.1 ± 0.1 to 7.3 ± 0.2 nmol·mg(-1)·min(-1), n = 4, P < 0.01). Inhibition of PKC and PKA resulted in further attenuation of the PTH effect. RasGRP1 knockdown decreased the magnitude of the TRPV5 response to PTH (7.9 ± 0.1 nmol·mg(-1)·min(-1) for knockdown compared with 9.1 ± 0.1 nmol·mg(-1)·min(-1) in control), and the addition of thiazide eliminated this effect (a nearly identical 9.0 ± 0.1 nmol·mg(-1)·min(-1)). This indicates that functionally active NCC is required for RasGRP1 knockdown to impact the PTH effect on TRPV5 activity. Knockdown of with no lysine kinase (WNK)4 resulted in an attenuation of the increase in PTH-mediated TRPV5 activity. TRPV5 activity increased by 36% compared with 45% in control (n = 4, P < 0.01 between PTH-treated groups). PKC blockade further attenuated the PTH effect, whereas combined PKC and PKA blockade in WNK4KD cells abolished the effect. We conclude that modulation of NCC activity contributes to the response to PTH, implying a role for hormonal modulation of NCC activity in distal Ca(2+) handling.

  8. Basal activity of voltage-gated Ca(2+) channels controls the IP3-mediated contraction by α(1)-adrenoceptor stimulation of mouse aorta segments.

    PubMed

    Leloup, Arthur J; Van Hove, Cor E; De Meyer, Guido R Y; Schrijvers, Dorien M; Fransen, Paul

    2015-08-05

    α1-Adrenoceptor stimulation of mouse aorta causes intracellular Ca(2+) release from sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca(2+) stores via stimulation of inositoltriphosphate (IP3) receptors. It is hypothesized that this Ca(2+) release from the contractile and IP3-sensitive Ca(2+) store is under the continuous dynamic control of time-independent basal Ca(2+) influx via L-type voltage-gated Ca(2+) channels (LCC) residing in their window voltage range. Mouse aortic segments were α1-adrenoceptor stimulated with phenylephrine in the absence of external Ca(2+) (0Ca) to measure phasic isometric contractions. They gradually decreased with time in 0Ca, were inhibited with 2-aminoethoxydiphenyl borate, and declined with previous membrane potential hyperpolarization (levcromakalim) or with previous inhibition of LCC (diltiazem). Former basal stimulation of LCC with depolarization (15 mM K(+)) or with BAY K8644 increased the subsequent phasic contractions by phenylephrine in 0Ca. Although exogenous NO (diethylamine NONOate) reduced the phasic contractions by phenylephrine, stimulation of endothelial cells with acetylcholine in 0Ca failed to attenuate these phasic contractions. Finally, inhibition of the basal release of NO with N(Ω)-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester also attenuated the phasic contractions by phenylephrine. Results indicated that α1-adrenoceptor stimulation with phenylephrine causes phasic contractions, which are controlled by basal LCC and endothelial NO synthase activity. Endothelial NO release by acetylcholine was absent in 0Ca. Given the growing interest in the active regulation of arterial compliance, the dependence of contractile SR Ca(2+) store-refilling in basal conditions on the activity of LCC and basal eNOS may contribute to a more thorough understanding of physiological mechanisms leading to arterial stiffness. Copyright © 2015. Published by Elsevier B.V.

  9. Specific CA3 neurons decode neural information of dentate granule cells evoked by paired-pulse stimulation in co-cultured networks.

    PubMed

    Poli, Daniele; DeMarse, Thomas B; Wheeler, Bruce C; Brewer, Gregory J

    2017-07-01

    CA3 and dentate gyrus (DG) neurons are cultured in two-chamber devices on multi-electrode arrays (MEAs) and connected via micro-tunnels. In order to evoke time-locked activity, paired-pulse stimulation is applied to 22 different sites and repeated 25 times in each well in 5 MEA co-cultures and results compared to CA3-CA3 and DG-DG networks homologous controls. In these hippocampal sub-regions, we focus on the mechanisms underpinning a network's ability to decode the identity of site specific stimulation from analysis of evoked network responses using a support vector machine classifier. Our results indicate that a pool of CA3 neurons is able to reliably decode the identity of DG stimulation site information.

  10. Stimulation of generation of inositol phosphates by carbamoylcholine and its inhibition by phorbol esters and iodide in dog thyroid cells.

    PubMed Central

    Laurent, E; Mockel, J; Takazawa, K; Erneux, C; Dumont, J E

    1989-01-01

    The action of carbamoylcholine (Cchol), NaF and other agonists on the generation of inositol phosphates (IPs) was studied in dog thyroid slices prelabelled with myo-[2-3H]inositol. The stimulation by Cchol (0.1 microM-0.1 mM) of IPs accumulation through activation of a muscarinic receptor [Graff, Mockel, Laurent, Erneux & Dumont (1987) FEBS Lett. 210, 204-210] was pertussis- and cholera-toxin insensitive. Ins(1,4,5)P3, Ins(1,3,4)P3 and InsP4 were generated. NaF (5-20 mM) also increased IPs generation (Graff et al., 1987); this effect was potentiated by AlCl3 (10 microM) and unaffected by pertussis toxin. Although phorbol dibutyrate (5 microM) abolished the cholinergic stimulation of IPs generation (Graff et al., 1987), it did not affect the fluoride-induced response. Cchol and NaF did not require extracellular Ca2+ to exert their effect, and neither KCl-induced membrane depolarization nor ionophore A23187 (10 microM) had any influence on basal IPs levels, or on cholinergic stimulation. However, more stringent Ca2+ depletion with EGTA (0.1 or 1 mM) decreased basal IPs levels as well as the amplitude of the stimulation by Cchol without abolishing it. Dibutyryl cyclic AMP, forskolin, cholera toxin and prostaglandin E1 had no effect on basal IPs levels and did not decrease the response to Cchol. Iodide (4 or 40 microM) also strongly decreased the cholinergic action on IPs, this inhibition being relieved by methimazole (1 mM). Our data suggest that Cchol activates a phospholipase C hydrolysing PtdIns(4,5)P2 in the dog thyroid cell in a cyclic AMP-independent manner. This activation requires no extracellular Ca2+ and depends on a GTP-binding protein insensitive to both cholera toxin and requires no extracellular Ca2+ and depends on a GTP-binding protein insensitive to both cholera toxin and pertussis toxin. The data are consistent with a rapid metabolism of Ins(1,4,5)P3 to Ins(1,3,4)P3 via the Ins(1,4,5)P3 3-kinase pathway, followed by dephosphorylation by a 5

  11. Responsiveness of mouse calvaria to parathyroid hormone after explant cryopreservation: 45Ca release in vitro

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Wezeman, F.H.; Dungan, D.D.

    1986-08-01

    Newborn mouse calvaria prelabeled with /sup 45/Ca and cryopreserved at -196 degrees C in serum-free medium containing dimethylsulfoxide were compared to unpreserved explants for response to parathyroid hormone during subsequent culture. After short-term cryopreservation followed by rapid thawing, the viable explants continued to release /sup 45/Ca to the culture medium but additions of parathyroid hormone to the medium did not cause increased bone resorption. The data suggest that cryopreservation and thawing impairs mechanisms responsible for parathyroid hormone action on bone cells.

  12. Role of Ca2+/calmodulin-stimulated cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterase 1 in mediating cardiomyocyte hypertrophy

    PubMed Central

    Miller, Clint L.; Oikawa, Masayoshi; Cai, Yujun; Wojtovich, Andrew P.; Nagel, David J.; Xu, Xiangbin; Xu, Haodong; Florio, Vince; Rybalkin, Sergei D.; Beavo, Joseph A.; Chen, Yiu-Fai; Li, Jian-Dong; Blaxall, Burns C.; Abe, Jun-ichi; Yan, Chen

    2009-01-01

    Rationale Cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterases (PDE) through the degradation of second messenger cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) play critical roles in maintaining cardiomyocyte homeostasis. Ca2+/CaM-activated cGMP-hydrolyzing PDE1 family may play a pivotal role in balancing intracellular Ca2+/CaM and cGMP signaling, however its function in cardiomyocytes is unknown. Objective Herein we investigate the role of Ca2+/CaM-stimulated PDE1 in regulating pathological cardiomyocyte hypertrophy in neonatal and adult rat ventricular myocytes (NRVM and ARVM) and in the heart in vivo. Methods and Results Inhibition of PDE1 activity using a PDE1 selective inhibitor IC86340 or downregulation of PDE1A using siRNA prevented phenylephrine (PE) induced pathological myocyte hypertrophy and hypertrophic marker expression in neonatal (NRVM) and adult (ARVM) rat ventricular myocytes. Importantly, administration of the PDE1 inhibitor IC86340 attenuated cardiac hypertrophy induced by chronic ISO infusion in vivo. Both PDE1A and PDE1C mRNA and protein were detected in human hearts, however PDE1A expression was conserved in rodent hearts. Moreover, PDE1A expression was significantly upregulated in vivo in the heart and myocytes from various pathological hypertrophy animal models and in vitro in isolated NRVM and ARVM treated with neurohumoral stimuli such as angiotensin II (Ang II) and ISO. Further, PDE1A plays a critical role in PE-induced reduction of intracellular cGMP and PKG activity, and thereby cardiomyocyte hypertrophy in vitro. Conclusions These results elucidate a novel role for Ca2+/CaM-stimulated PDE1, particularly PDE1A, in regulating pathological cardiomyocyte hypertrophy via a cGMP/PKG-dependent mechanism, thereby demonstrating Ca2+ and cGMP signaling cross-talk during cardiac hypertrophy. PMID:19797176

  13. Expression of cardiac sarcolemmal Na sup + -Ca sup 2+ exchange activity in Xenopus laevis oocytes

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Longoni, S.; Coady, M.J.; Ikeda, T.

    1988-12-01

    Injection of Xenopus laevis oocytes with rabbit heart poly(A){sup +}RNA results in expression of Na{sup +} inside (Na{sub i}{sup +})-dependent Ca{sup 2+} uptake activity. The activity was measured by first loading the oocytes with Na{sup +} using nystatin and then incubating the oocytes in K{sup +} or Na{sup +} medium containing {sup 45}Ca. The expressed Na{sup +} gradient-dependent Ca{sup 2+} uptake was five to eight times that observed with water-injected oocytes or with poly(A){sup +}RNA-injected oocytes for which the Na{sup +} load step had been omitted. Induced activity was related to the amount of RNA injected and was insensitive tomore » nifedipine. Fractionation of the poly(A){sup +}RNA on a sucrose gradient determined that the active message had a size range between 3 and 8 kb. The properties of the Na{sup +} gradient-dependent Ca{sup 2+} uptake indicated that Na{sup +}-Ca{sup 2+} exchange activity had been expressed in X. laevis oocytes. The result may be useful for cloning and identifying the molecular component responsible for Na{sup +}-Ca{sup 2+} exchange.« less

  14. Long-term high-intensity sound stimulation inhibits h current (Ih ) in CA1 pyramidal neurons.

    PubMed

    Cunha, A O S; Ceballos, C C; de Deus, J L; Leão, R M

    2018-05-19

    Afferent neurotransmission to hippocampal pyramidal cells can lead to long-term changes to their intrinsic membrane properties and affect many ion currents. One of the most plastic neuronal currents is the hyperpolarization activated cationic current (I h ), which changes in CA1 pyramidal cells in response to many types of physiological and pathological processes, including auditory stimulation. Recently we demonstrated that long-term potentiation (LTP) in rat hippocampal Schaffer-CA1 synapses is depressed by high-intensity sound stimulation. Here we investigated if a long-term high-intensity sound stimulation could affect intrinsic membrane properties of rat CA1 pyramidal neurons. Our results showed that I h is depressed by long-term high intensity sound exposure (1 minute of 110 dB sound, applied two times per day for 10 days). This resulted in a decreased resting membrane potential, increased membrane input resistance and time constant, and decreased action potential threshold. In addition, CA1 pyramidal neurons from sound-exposed animals fired more action potentials than neurons from control animals; However, this effect was not caused by a decreased I h . Interestingly, a single episode (1 minute) of 110 dB sound stimulation which also inhibits hippocampal LTP did not affect I h and firing in pyramidal neurons, suggesting that effects on I h are long-term responses to high intensity sound exposure. Our results show that prolonged exposure to high-intensity sound affects intrinsic membrane properties of hippocampal pyramidal neurons, mainly by decreasing the amplitude of I h . This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

  15. Platelet-derived growth factor regulates K-Cl cotransport in vascular smooth muscle cells.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Jing; Lauf, Peter K; Adragna, Norma C

    2003-03-01

    Platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), a potent serum mitogen for vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs), plays an important role in membrane transport regulation and in atherosclerosis. K-Cl cotransport (K-Cl COT/KCC), the coupled-movement of K and Cl, is involved in ion homeostasis. VSMCs possess K-Cl COT activity and the KCC1 and KCC3 isoforms. Here, we report on the effect of PDGF on K-Cl COT activity and mRNA expression in primary cultures of rat VSMCs. K-Cl COT was determined as the Cl-dependent Rb influx and mRNA expression by semiquantitative RT-PCR. Twenty four-hour serum deprivation inhibited basal K-Cl COT activity. Addition of PDGF increased total protein content and K-Cl COT activity in a time-dependent manner. PDGF activated K-Cl COT in a dose-dependent manner, both acutely (10 min) and chronically (12 h). AG-1296, a selective inhibitor of the PDGF receptor tyrosine kinase, abolished these effects. Actinomycin D and cycloheximide had no effect on the acute PDGF activation of K-Cl COT, suggesting posttranslational regulation by the drug. Furthermore, PDGF increased KCC1 and decreased KCC3 mRNA expression in a time-dependent manner. These results indicate that chronic activation of K-Cl COT activity by PDGF may involve regulation of the two KCC mRNA isoforms, with KCC1 playing a dominant role in the mechanism of PDGF-mediated activation.

  16. Gastrin stimulates renal dopamine production by increasing the renal tubular uptake of l-DOPA.

    PubMed

    Jiang, Xiaoliang; Zhang, Yanrong; Yang, Yu; Yang, Jian; Asico, Laureano D; Chen, Wei; Felder, Robin A; Armando, Ines; Jose, Pedro A; Yang, Zhiwei

    2017-01-01

    Gastrin is a peptide hormone that is involved in the regulation of sodium balance and blood pressure. Dopamine, which is also involved in the regulation of sodium balance and blood pressure, directly or indirectly interacts with other blood pressure-regulating hormones, including gastrin. This study aimed to determine the mechanisms of the interaction between gastrin and dopamine and tested the hypothesis that gastrin produced in the kidney increases renal dopamine production to keep blood pressure within the normal range. We show that in human and mouse renal proximal tubule cells (hRPTCs and mRPTCs, respectively), gastrin stimulates renal dopamine production by increasing the cellular uptake of l-DOPA via the l-type amino acid transporter (LAT) at the plasma membrane. The uptake of l-DOPA in RPTCs from C57Bl/6J mice is lower than in RPTCs from normotensive humans. l-DOPA uptake in renal cortical slices is also lower in salt-sensitive C57Bl/6J than in salt-resistant BALB/c mice. The deficient renal cortical uptake of l-DOPA in C57Bl/6J mice may be due to decreased LAT-1 activity that is related to its decreased expression at the plasma membrane, relative to BALB/c mice. We also show that renal-selective silencing of Gast by the renal subcapsular injection of Gast siRNA in BALB/c mice decreases renal dopamine production and increases blood pressure. These results highlight the importance of renal gastrin in stimulating renal dopamine production, which may give a new perspective in the prevention and treatment of hypertension. Copyright © 2017 the American Physiological Society.

  17. Biphasic decay of the Ca transient results from increased sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca leak

    PubMed Central

    Sankaranarayanan, Rajiv; Li, Yatong; Greensmith, David J.; Eisner, David A.

    2016-01-01

    biphasic decay was replaced by slow decay. We conclude that, in the presence of adrenergic stimulation, Ca leak can produce biphasic decay; the slow phase results from the leak opposing Ca uptake by SERCA. The degree of leak determines whether decay of Ca waves, biphasic or monophasic, occurs. PMID:26537441

  18. A toxin fraction (FTX) from the funnel-web spider poison inhibits dihydropyridine-insensitive Ca2+ channels coupled to catecholamine release in bovine adrenal chromaffin cells.

    PubMed

    Duarte, C B; Rosario, L M; Sena, C M; Carvalho, A P

    1993-03-01

    In adrenal chromaffin cells, depolarization-evoked Ca2+ influx and catecholamine release are partially blocked by blockers of L-type voltage-sensitive Ca2+ channels. We have now evaluated the sensitivity of the dihydropyridine-resistant components of Ca2+ influx and catecholamine release to a toxin fraction (FTX) from the funnel-web spider poison, which is known to block P-type channels in mammalian neurons. FTX (1:4,000 dilution, with respect to the original fraction) inhibited K(+)-depolarization-induced Ca2+ influx by 50%, as monitored with fura-2, whereas nitrendipine (0.1-1 microM) and FTX (3:3), a synthetic FTX analogue (1 mM), blocked the [Ca2+]i transients by 35 and 30%, respectively. When tested together, FTX and nitrendipine reduced the [Ca2+]i transients by 70%. FTX or nitrendipine reduced adrenaline and noradrenaline release by approximately 80 and 70%, respectively, but both substances together abolished the K(+)-evoked catecholamine release, as measured by HPLC. The omega-conotoxin GVIA (0.5 microM) was without effect on K(+)-stimulated 45Ca2+ uptake. Our results indicate that FTX blocks dihydropyridine- and omega-conotoxin-insensitive Ca2+ channels that, together with L-type voltage-sensitive Ca2+ channels, are coupled to catecholamine release.

  19. Uptake properties of Ni2+ by nCaO.Al2O3.2SiO2 (n=1-4) prepared from solid-state reaction of kaolinite and calcite.

    PubMed

    Jha, Vinay Kumar; Kameshima, Yoshikazu; Nakajima, Akira; Okada, Kiyoshi; MacKenzie, Kenneth J D

    2005-08-31

    A series of nCaO.Al2O3.2SiO2 samples (n=1-4) were prepared by solid-state reaction of mechanochemically treated mixtures of kaolinite and calcite fired at 600-1000 degrees C for 24 h. All the samples were X-ray amorphous after firing at 600-800 degrees C but had crystallized by 900 degrees C. The main crystalline phases were anorthite (n=1), gehlenite (n=2 and 3) and larnite (n=4). The uptake of Ni2+ by nCaO.Al2O3.2SiO2 samples fired at 800 and 900 degrees C was investigated at room temperature using solutions with initial Ni2+ concentrations of 0.1-50 mmol/l. Amorphous samples (fired at 800 degrees C) showed a higher Ni2+ uptake capacity than crystalline samples (fired at 900 degrees C). Ni2+ uptake was found to increase with increasing of CaO content. Amorphous 4CaO.Al2O3.2SiO2 showed the highest Ni2+ uptake capacity (about 9 mmol/g). The Ni2+ uptake abilities of the present samples are higher than those of other materials reported in the literature. Since the sorbed Ni2+/released Ca2+ ratios of these samples are close to unity, ion replacement of Ni2+ for Ca2+ is thought to be the principal mechanism of Ni2+ uptake by the present samples.

  20. Radiation effects on beta /10.6/ of pure and europium doped KCl

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Grimes, H. H.; Maisel, J. E.; Hartford, R. H.

    1975-01-01

    Changes in the optical absorption coefficient as the result of X-ray and electron bombardment of pure monocrystalline and polycrystalline KCl and of divalent europium doped polycrystalline KCl were determined. A constant heat flow calorimetric method was used to measure the optical absorption coefficients. Both 300 kV X-ray irradiation and 2 MeV electron irradiation produced increases in the optical absorption coefficient at room temperature. X-ray irradiation produced more significant changes in pure monocrystalline KCl than equivalent amounts of electron irradiation. Electron irradiation of pure and Eu-doped polycrystalline KCl produced increases in the absorption by as much as a factor of 20 over untreated material. Bleaching of the electron-irradiated doped KCl with 649 millimicron light produced a further increase.

  1. Calorie restriction enhances insulin-stimulated glucose uptake and Akt phosphorylation in both fast-twitch and slow-twitch skeletal muscle of 24-month-old rats.

    PubMed

    Sequea, Donel A; Sharma, Naveen; Arias, Edward B; Cartee, Gregory D

    2012-12-01

    Calorie restriction (CR) induces enhanced insulin-stimulated glucose uptake in fast-twitch (type II) muscle from old rats, but the effect of CR on slow-twitch (type I) muscle from old rats is unknown. The purpose of this study was to assess insulin-stimulated glucose uptake and phosphorylation of key insulin signaling proteins in isolated epitrochlearis (fast-twitch) and soleus (slow-twitch) muscles from 24-month-old ad libitum fed and CR (consuming 65% of ad libitum, intake) rats. Muscles were incubated with and without 1.2 nM insulin. CR versus ad libitum rats had greater insulin-stimulated glucose uptake and Akt phosphorylation (pAkt) on T308 and S473 for both muscles incubated with insulin. GLUT4 protein abundance and phosphorylation of the insulin receptor (Y1162/1163) and AS160 (T642) were unaltered by CR in both muscles. These results implicate enhanced pAkt as a potential mechanism for the CR-induced increase in insulin-stimulated glucose uptake by the fast-twitch epitrochlearis and slow-twitch soleus of old rats.

  2. Milrinone and thyroid hormone stimulate myocardial membrane Ca2+-ATPase activity and share structural homologies.

    PubMed Central

    Mylotte, K M; Cody, V; Davis, P J; Davis, F B; Blas, S D; Schoenl, M

    1985-01-01

    We have recently shown that thyroid hormone in physiological concentrations stimulates sarcolemma-enriched rabbit-myocardial-membrane Ca2+-ATPase in vitro. In this study, milrinone [2-methyl-5-cyano-(3,4'-bipyridin)-6(1H)-one], a cardiac inotropic agent, was thyromimetic in the same system. At clinically achievable concentrations (50-500 nM), milrinone significantly stimulated membrane Ca2+-ATPase in vitro. This action was antagonized by W-7 [N-(6-aminohexyl)-5-chloro-1-naphthalenesulfonamide], an agent that also blocks thyroid hormone action on the Ca2+-ATPase, at concentrations as low as 5 microM. Progressive additions of milrinone to membranes incubated with a fixed concentration of thyroxine (0.10 nM) or triiodothyronine resulted in a progressive obliteration of the thyroid hormone effect on Ca2+-ATPase. Amrinone [5-amino-(3,4'-bipyridin)-6(1H)-one], the parent bipyridine of milrinone, had no effect on myocardial Ca2+-ATPase activity. X-ray crystallographic analysis of milrinone and amrinone revealed structural homologies between the phenolic ring of thyroxine and the substituted ring of milrinone, whereas amrinone did not share these homologies. The mechanism(s) of the inotropic actions of thyroxine and of milrinone is not clearly understood, but these observations implicate Ca2+-ATPase, a calcium pump-associated enzyme, as one mediator of the effects on the heart of these two compounds. PMID:2933747

  3. Phase relations in the hydrous CMAS pyrolite in presence of KCl at 2 GPa

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Safonov, O.

    2012-04-01

    In the upper mantle, chlorides are constituents of concentrated aqueous solutions (brines), as well as chloride-carbonate and carbonatite melts. Mineral assemblages coming from diverse depth levels show that mobile (K, Na)Cl-bearing fluids are able to provoke intensive metasomatism of the peridotitic mantle accompanied by melting. Scarce experimental studies on influence of brines on mineral equilibria in the peridotitic mantle (Stalder et al., 2008; Chu et al., 2011) indicate that influence of chlorides on water activity in a fluid equilibrated with forsterite enstatite at pressures above 2 GPa is very similar to their effect at lower "crustal" pressures (e.g. Aranovich, Newton, 1997): decrease of the H2O activity with an increase of the salt content results in an increase of the melting temperature of silicates. Nevertheless, these experiments were performed in the Al-free systems. Presence of Al would provoke an active interaction of alkali chlorides, namely KCl, with silicates with formation of new K-Al-bearing phases, such as phlogopite (in presence of H2O), which would influence on the melting of complex assemblages. In order to investigate an effect of KCl on phase relations in the Al2O3, CaO, Na2O-rich hydrous peridotite and on stability of garnet, pyroxenes, and amphiboles, in particular, experiments on interaction of the model CMAS pyrolite Fo57En17Prp14Di12 (+0.3 wt. % of Na2O) with the H2O-KCl fluid were performed at 2 GPa in the temperature interval 900-1200. Mixtures of synthetic forsterite, diopside, enstatite and pyrope in the above weight ratio were mixed with 14 wt. % of Mg(OH)2 corresponding to 4.4 wt. % of H2O in the system. 2.4, 3.7, 5 and 10 wt. % of KCl were added to silicate-H2O mixture. Experiments were performed using a piston-cylinder apparatus with ½-inch talc high-pressure cells calibrated via brucite = periclase + H2O and albite = jadeite + quartz equilibria curves. Temperature was controlled with accuracy ?1 with the W95Re5/W80Re20

  4. Construction and evaluation of BSA-CaP nanomaterials with enhanced transgene performance via biocorona-inspired caveolae-mediated endocytosis

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ma, Xi-Xi; Gao, Han; Zhang, Ya-Xuan; Jia, Yi-Yang; Li, Chen; Zhou, Si-Yuan; Zhang, Bang-Le

    2018-02-01

    Non-viral nanovectors have attracted much attention owing to their ability to condense genetic materials and their ease of modification. However, their poor stability, low biocompatibility and gene degradation in endosomes or lysosomes has significantly hampered their application in vivo and in the clinic. In an attempt to overcome these difficulties a series of bovine serum albumin (BSA)-calcium phosphate (CaP) nanoparticles were constructed. The CaP condenses with DNA to form nanocomplexes coated with a biomimetic corona of BSA. Such complexes may retain the inherent endocytosis profile of BSA, with improved biocompatibility. In particular the transgene performance may be enhanced by stimulating the cellular uptake pathway via caveolae-mediated endocytosis. Two methods were employed to construct and optimize the formulation of BSA-CaP nanomaterials. The optimized BSA-CaP-50-M2 nanoparticles prepared by our second method exhibited good stability, negligible cytotoxicity and enhanced transgene performance with long-term expression for 72 h in vivo even with a single dose. Determination of the cellular uptake pathway and Western blot revealed that cellular uptake of the designed BSA-CaP-50-M2 nanoparticles was mainly via caveolae-mediated endocytosis in a non-degradative pathway in which the biomimetic uptake profile of BSA was retained.

  5. Construction and evaluation of BSA-CaP nanomaterials with enhanced transgene performance via biocorona-inspired caveolae-mediated endocytosis.

    PubMed

    Ma, Xi-Xi; Gao, Han; Zhang, Ya-Xuan; Jia, Yi-Yang; Li, Chen; Zhou, Si-Yuan; Zhang, Bang-Le

    2018-02-23

    Non-viral nanovectors have attracted much attention owing to their ability to condense genetic materials and their ease of modification. However, their poor stability, low biocompatibility and gene degradation in endosomes or lysosomes has significantly hampered their application in vivo and in the clinic. In an attempt to overcome these difficulties a series of bovine serum albumin (BSA)-calcium phosphate (CaP) nanoparticles were constructed. The CaP condenses with DNA to form nanocomplexes coated with a biomimetic corona of BSA. Such complexes may retain the inherent endocytosis profile of BSA, with improved biocompatibility. In particular the transgene performance may be enhanced by stimulating the cellular uptake pathway via caveolae-mediated endocytosis. Two methods were employed to construct and optimize the formulation of BSA-CaP nanomaterials. The optimized BSA-CaP-50-M2 nanoparticles prepared by our second method exhibited good stability, negligible cytotoxicity and enhanced transgene performance with long-term expression for 72 h in vivo even with a single dose. Determination of the cellular uptake pathway and Western blot revealed that cellular uptake of the designed BSA-CaP-50-M2 nanoparticles was mainly via caveolae-mediated endocytosis in a non-degradative pathway in which the biomimetic uptake profile of BSA was retained.

  6. Hypotonic shock stimulates ascorbate release from coronary artery endothelial cells by a Ca2+ -independent pathway.

    PubMed

    Davis, Kim A; Samson, Sue E; Wilson, John X; Grover, Ashok K

    2006-10-24

    In endothelial cells, anion channels open upon osmotic swelling during shear stress and hypotonic shock. Therefore, we examined the effects of hypotonic shock on release of the antioxidant anion ascorbate from pig coronary artery endothelial cells. Hypotonic shock potentiated ascorbate release from freshly isolated or cultured pig coronary artery endothelial cells; subsequently cultured endothelial cells were used. The hypotonic shock-induced increase in Asc release was rapid, depended on the degree of hypotonic shock, and not due to membrane leakiness. Stimulating P2Y2 like receptors in endothelial cells with ATP causes ascorbate release via a Ca2+ -mediated pathway. Hypotonic shock-induced release differed from the Ca2+-mediated Asc release because: (a) the increase in release with hypotonic shock was additive to that with ATP or A23187 (Ca2+ -ionophore), (b) apyrase, suramin or removing extracellular Ca2+ did not affect the hypotonic shock-stimulated release, (c) anion channel blockers inhibited the release by the two pathways differently, and (d) hypotonic shock increased the ascorbate release from endothelial cells and cultured smooth muscle cells whereas the Ca2+ -mediated ascorbate release occurred only in endothelial cells. Accumulation of ascorbate by endothelial cells was examined at extracellular ascorbate concentrations of 10 (Na+ -ascorbate symporter not saturated) and 5000 microM (Na+ -ascorbate symporter saturated). Hypotonic shock and A23187 decreased ascorbate accumulation at 10 microM ascorbate but increased it at 5000 microM. The effects of the two treatments were additive and also differed from each other with substitution of gluconate for extracellular chloride. Thus, ascorbate release from endothelial cells can be potentiated by two distinct pathways - hypotonic shock mediated and ATP/Ca2+ stimulated.

  7. Involvement of respiratory processes in the transient knockout of net CO2 uptake in Mimosa pudica upon heat stimulation.

    PubMed

    Lautner, Silke; Stummer, Michaela; Matyssek, Rainer; Fromm, Jörg; Grams, Thorsten E E

    2014-01-01

    Leaf photosynthesis of the sensitive plant Mimosa pudica displays a transient knockout in response to electrical signals induced by heat stimulation. This study aims at clarifying the underlying mechanisms, in particular, the involvement of respiration. To this end, leaf gas exchange and light reactions of photosynthesis were assessed under atmospheric conditions largely eliminating photorespiration by either elevated atmospheric CO2 or lowered O2 concentration (i.e. 2000 μmol mol(-1) or 1%, respectively). In addition, leaf gas exchange was studied in the absence of light. Under darkness, heat stimulation caused a transient increase of respiratory CO2 release simultaneously with stomatal opening, hence reflecting direct involvement of respiratory stimulation in the drop of the net CO2 uptake rate. However, persistence of the transient decline in net CO2 uptake rate under illumination and elevated CO2 or 1% O2 makes it unlikely that photorespiration is the metabolic origin of the respiratory CO2 release. In conclusion, the transient knockout of net CO2 uptake is at least partially attributed to an increased CO2 release through mitochondrial respiration as stimulated by electrical signals. Putative CO2 limitation of Rubisco due to decreased activity of carbonic anhydrase was ruled out as the photosynthesis effect was not prevented by elevated CO2 . © 2013 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

  8. Nitric oxide-dependent activation of CaMKII increases diastolic sarcoplasmic reticulum calcium release in cardiac myocytes in response to adrenergic stimulation.

    PubMed

    Curran, Jerry; Tang, Lifei; Roof, Steve R; Velmurugan, Sathya; Millard, Ashley; Shonts, Stephen; Wang, Honglan; Santiago, Demetrio; Ahmad, Usama; Perryman, Matthew; Bers, Donald M; Mohler, Peter J; Ziolo, Mark T; Shannon, Thomas R

    2014-01-01

    Spontaneous calcium waves in cardiac myocytes are caused by diastolic sarcoplasmic reticulum release (SR Ca(2+) leak) through ryanodine receptors. Beta-adrenergic (β-AR) tone is known to increase this leak through the activation of Ca-calmodulin-dependent protein kinase (CaMKII) and the subsequent phosphorylation of the ryanodine receptor. When β-AR drive is chronic, as observed in heart failure, this CaMKII-dependent effect is exaggerated and becomes potentially arrhythmogenic. Recent evidence has indicated that CaMKII activation can be regulated by cellular oxidizing agents, such as reactive oxygen species. Here, we investigate how the cellular second messenger, nitric oxide, mediates CaMKII activity downstream of the adrenergic signaling cascade and promotes the generation of arrhythmogenic spontaneous Ca(2+) waves in intact cardiomyocytes. Both SCaWs and SR Ca(2+) leak were measured in intact rabbit and mouse ventricular myocytes loaded with the Ca-dependent fluorescent dye, fluo-4. CaMKII activity in vitro and immunoblotting for phosphorylated residues on CaMKII, nitric oxide synthase, and Akt were measured to confirm activity of these enzymes as part of the adrenergic cascade. We demonstrate that stimulation of the β-AR pathway by isoproterenol increased the CaMKII-dependent SR Ca(2+) leak. This increased leak was prevented by inhibition of nitric oxide synthase 1 but not nitric oxide synthase 3. In ventricular myocytes isolated from wild-type mice, isoproterenol stimulation also increased the CaMKII-dependent leak. Critically, in myocytes isolated from nitric oxide synthase 1 knock-out mice this effect is ablated. We show that isoproterenol stimulation leads to an increase in nitric oxide production, and nitric oxide alone is sufficient to activate CaMKII and increase SR Ca(2+) leak. Mechanistically, our data links Akt to nitric oxide synthase 1 activation downstream of β-AR stimulation. Collectively, this evidence supports the hypothesis that CaMKII is

  9. Radiation effects on beta 10.6 of pure and europium doped KCl

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Grimes, H. H.; Maisel, J. E.; Hartford, R. H.

    1975-01-01

    Changes in the optical absorption coefficient as a result of X-ray and electron bombardment of pure KCl (monocrystalline and polycrystalline), and divalent europium doped polycrystalline KCl were determined. The optical absorption coefficients were measured by a constant heat flow calorimetric method. Both 300 KV X-irradiation and 2 MeV electron irradiation produced significant increases in beta 10.6, measured at room temperature. The X-irradiation of pure moncrystalline KCl increased beta 10.6 by 0.005/cm for a 113 MR dose. For an equivalent dose, 2 MeV electrons were found less efficient in changing beta 10.6. However, electron irradiation of pure and Eu-doped polycrystalline KCl produced marked increases in adsorption. Beta increased to over 0.25/cm in Eu-doped material for a 30 x 10 to the 14th power electrons/sq cm dose, a factor of 20 increase over unirradiated material. Moreover, bleaching the electron irradiated doped KCl with 649 m light produced and additional factor of 1.5 increase. These findings will be discussed in light of known defect-center properties in KCl.

  10. Biosimilar granulocyte colony-stimulating factor uptakes in the EU-5 markets: a descriptive analysis.

    PubMed

    Bocquet, François; Paubel, Pascal; Fusier, Isabelle; Cordonnier, Anne-Laure; Le Pen, Claude; Sinègre, Martine

    2014-06-01

    Biosimilars are copies of biological reference medicines. Unlike generics (copies of chemical molecules), biologics are complex, expensive and complicated to produce. The knowledge of the factors affecting the competition following patent expiry for biologics remains limited. The aims of this study were to analyse the EU-5 Granulocyte-Colony Stimulating Factor (G-CSF) markets and to determine the factors affecting the G-CSF biosimilar uptakes, particularly that of biosimilar prices relative to originators. Data on medicine volumes, values, and ex-manufacturer prices for all G-CSF categories were provided by IMS Health. Volumes were calculated in defined daily doses (DDD) and prices in Euros per DDD. In the EU-5 countries, there is 5 years of experience with biosimilar G-CSFs (2007-2011). Two G-CSF market profiles exist: (1) countries with a high retail market distribution, which are the largest G-CSF markets with low global G-CSF biosimilar uptakes (5.4% in France and 8.5% in Germany in 2011); and (2) countries with a dominant hospital channel, which are the smallest markets with higher G-CSF biosimilar uptakes (12.4% in Spain and 20.4% in the UK). The more the decisions are decentralized, the more their uptakes are high. The price difference between G-CSF biosimilars and their reference plays a marginal role at a global level (price differences of +13.3% in the UK and -20.4% in France). The competition with G-CSF biosimilars varies significantly between EU-5 countries, probably because of G-CSF distribution channel differences. Currently, this competition is not mainly based on prices, but on local political options to stimulate tendering between them and recently branded second- or third-generation products.

  11. Sympathetic nerve stimulation induces local endothelial Ca2+ signals to oppose vasoconstriction of mouse mesenteric arteries

    PubMed Central

    Nausch, Lydia W. M.; Bonev, Adrian D.; Heppner, Thomas J.; Tallini, Yvonne; Kotlikoff, Michael I.

    2012-01-01

    It is generally accepted that the endothelium regulates vascular tone independent of the activity of the sympathetic nervous system. Here, we tested the hypothesis that the activation of sympathetic nerves engages the endothelium to oppose vasoconstriction. Local inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3)-mediated Ca2+ signals (“pulsars”) in or near endothelial projections to vascular smooth muscle (VSM) were measured in an en face mouse mesenteric artery preparation. Electrical field stimulation of sympathetic nerves induced an increase in endothelial cell (EC) Ca2+ pulsars, recruiting new pulsar sites without affecting activity at existing sites. This increase in Ca2+ pulsars was blocked by bath application of the α-adrenergic receptor antagonist prazosin or by TTX but was unaffected by directly picospritzing the α-adrenergic receptor agonist phenylephrine onto the vascular endothelium, indicating that nerve-derived norepinephrine acted through α-adrenergic receptors on smooth muscle cells. Moreover, EC Ca2+ signaling was not blocked by inhibitors of purinergic receptors, ryanodine receptors, or voltage-dependent Ca2+ channels, suggesting a role for IP3, rather than Ca2+, in VSM-to-endothelium communication. Block of intermediate-conductance Ca2+-sensitive K+ channels, which have been shown to colocalize with IP3 receptors in endothelial projections to VSM, enhanced nerve-evoked constriction. Collectively, our results support the concept of a transcellular negative feedback module whereby sympathetic nerve stimulation elevates EC Ca2+ signals to oppose vasoconstriction. PMID:22140050

  12. K-Cl cotransporters, cell volume homeostasis, and neurological disease.

    PubMed

    Kahle, Kristopher T; Khanna, Arjun R; Alper, Seth L; Adragna, Norma C; Lauf, Peter K; Sun, Dandan; Delpire, Eric

    2015-08-01

    K(+)-Cl(-) cotransporters (KCCs) were originally characterized as regulators of red blood cell (RBC) volume. Since then, four distinct KCCs have been cloned, and their importance for volume regulation has been demonstrated in other cell types. Genetic models of certain KCCs, such as KCC3, and their inhibitory WNK-STE20/SPS1-related proline/alanine-rich kinase (SPAK) serine-threonine kinases, have demonstrated the evolutionary necessity of these molecules for nervous system cell volume regulation, structure, and function, and their involvement in neurological disease. The recent characterization of a swelling-activated dephosphorylation mechanism that potently stimulates the KCCs has pinpointed a potentially druggable switch of KCC activity. An improved understanding of WNK/SPAK-mediated KCC cell volume regulation in the nervous system might reveal novel avenues for the treatment of multiple neurological diseases. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  13. Theoretical and empirical investigations of KCl:Eu2+ for nearly water-equivalent radiotherapy dosimetry

    PubMed Central

    Zheng, Yuanshui; Han, Zhaohui; Driewer, Joseph P.; Low, Daniel A.; Li, H. Harold

    2010-01-01

    Purpose: The low effective atomic number, reusability, and other computed radiography-related advantages make europium doped potassium chloride (KCl:Eu2+) a promising dosimetry material. The purpose of this study is to model KCl:Eu2+ point dosimeters with a Monte Carlo (MC) method and, using this model, to investigate the dose responses of two-dimensional (2D) KCl:Eu2+ storage phosphor films (SPFs). Methods: KCl:Eu2+ point dosimeters were irradiated using a 6 MV beam at four depths (5–20 cm) for each of five square field sizes (5×5–25×25 cm2). The dose measured by KCl:Eu2+ was compared to that measured by an ionization chamber to obtain the magnitude of energy dependent dose measurement artifact. The measurements were simulated using DOSXYZnrc with phase space files generated by BEAMnrcMP. Simulations were also performed for KCl:Eu2+ films with thicknesses ranging from 1 μm to 1 mm. The work function of the prototype KCl:Eu2+ material was determined by comparing the sensitivity of a 150 μm thick KCl:Eu2+ film to a commercial BaFBr0.85I0.15:Eu2+-based SPF with a known work function. The work function was then used to estimate the sensitivity of a 1 μm thick KCl:Eu2+ film. Results: The simulated dose responses of prototype KCl:Eu2+ point dosimeters agree well with measurement data acquired by irradiating the dosimeters in the 6 MV beam with varying field size and depth. Furthermore, simulations with films demonstrate that an ultrathin KCl:Eu2+ film with thickness of the order of 1 μm would have nearly water-equivalent dose response. The simulation results can be understood using classic cavity theories. Finally, preliminary experiments and theoretical calculations show that ultrathin KCl:Eu2+ film could provide excellent signal in a 1 cGy dose-to-water irradiation. Conclusions: In conclusion, the authors demonstrate that KCl:Eu2+-based dosimeters can be accurately modeled by a MC method and that 2D KCl:Eu2+ films of the order of 1 μm thick would have

  14. Measurement of mitochondrial Ca2+ transport mediated by three transport proteins: VDAC1, the Na+/Ca2+ exchanger, and the Ca2+ uniporter.

    PubMed

    Ben-Hail, Danya; Palty, Raz; Shoshan-Barmatz, Varda

    2014-02-01

    Ca(2+) is a ubiquitous cellular signal, with changes in intracellular Ca(2+) concentration not only stimulating a number of intercellular events but also triggering cell death pathways, including apoptosis. Mitochondrial Ca(2+) uptake and release play pivotal roles in cellular physiology by regulating intracellular Ca(2+) signaling, energy metabolism and cell death. Ca(2+) transport across the inner and outer mitochondrial membranes is mediated by several proteins, including channels, antiporters, and a uniporter. In this article, we present the background to several methods now established for assaying mitochondrial Ca(2+) transport activity across both mitochondrial membranes. The first of these is Ca(2+) transport mediated by the outer mitochondrial protein, the voltage-dependent anion-selective channel protein 1 (VDAC1, also known as porin 1), both as a purified protein reconstituted into a planar lipid bilayer (PLB) or into liposomes and as a mitochondrial membrane-embedded protein. The second method involves isolated mitochondria for assaying the activity of an inner mitochondrial membrane transport protein, the mitochondrial Ca(2+) uniporter (MCU) that transports Ca(2+) and is powered by the steep mitochondrial membrane potential. In the event of Ca(2+) overload, this leads to opening of the mitochondrial permeability transition pore (MPTP) and cell death. The third method describes how Na(+)-dependent mitochondrial Ca(2+) efflux mediated by mitochondrial NCLX, a member of the Na(+)/Ca(2+) exchanger superfamily, can be assayed in digitonin-permeabilized HEK-293 cells. The Ca(2+)-transport assays can be performed under various conditions and in combination with inhibitors, allowing detailed characterization of the transport activity of interest.

  15. Two weeks of moderate-intensity continuous training, but not high-intensity interval training, increases insulin-stimulated intestinal glucose uptake

    PubMed Central

    Savolainen, Anna M.; Eskelinen, Jari-Joonas; Toivanen, Jussi; Ishizu, Tamiko; Yli-Karjanmaa, Minna; Virtanen, Kirsi A.; Parkkola, Riitta; Kapanen, Jukka; Grönroos, Tove J.; Haaparanta-Solin, Merja; Solin, Olof; Savisto, Nina; Ahotupa, Markku; Löyttyniemi, Eliisa; Knuuti, Juhani; Nuutila, Pirjo; Kalliokoski, Kari K.

    2017-01-01

    Similar to muscles, the intestine is also insulin resistant in obese subjects and subjects with impaired glucose tolerance. Exercise training improves muscle insulin sensitivity, but its effects on intestinal metabolism are not known. We studied the effects of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT) on intestinal glucose and free fatty acid uptake from circulation in humans. Twenty-eight healthy, middle-aged, sedentary men were randomized for 2 wk of HIIT or MICT. Intestinal insulin-stimulated glucose uptake and fasting free fatty acid uptake from circulation were measured using positron emission tomography and [18F]FDG and [18F]FTHA. In addition, effects of HIIT and MICT on intestinal GLUT2 and CD36 protein expression were studied in rats. Training improved aerobic capacity (P = 0.001) and whole body insulin sensitivity (P = 0.04), but not differently between HIIT and MICT. Insulin-stimulated glucose uptake increased only after the MICT in the colon (HIIT = 0%; MICT = 37%) (P = 0.02 for time × training) and tended to increase in the jejunum (HIIT = −4%; MICT = 13%) (P = 0.08 for time × training). Fasting free fatty acid uptake decreased in the duodenum in both groups (HIIT = −6%; MICT = −48%) (P = 0.001 time) and tended to decrease in the colon in the MICT group (HIIT = 0%; MICT = −38%) (P = 0.08 for time × training). In rats, both training groups had higher GLUT2 and CD36 expression compared with control animals. This study shows that already 2 wk of MICT enhances insulin-stimulated glucose uptake, while both training modes reduce fasting free fatty acid uptake in the intestine in healthy, middle-aged men, providing an additional mechanism by which exercise training can improve whole body metabolism. NEW & NOTEWORTHY This is the first study where the effects of exercise training on the intestinal substrate uptake have been investigated using the most advanced techniques

  16. Uptake and metabolic effects of salicylic acid on the pulvinar motor cells of Mimosa pudica L.

    PubMed

    Dédaldéchamp, Fabienne; Saeedi, Saed; Fleurat-Lessard, Pierrette; Roblin, Gabriel

    2014-01-01

    In this paper, the salicylic acid (o-hydroxy benzoic acid) (SA) uptake by the pulvinar tissues of Mimosa pudica L. pulvini was shown to be strongly pH-dependent, increasing with acidity of the assay medium. This uptake was performed according to a unique affinity system (K(m) = 5.9 mM, V(m) = 526 pmol mgDW(-1)) in the concentration range of 0.1-5 mM. The uptake rate increased with increasing temperature (5-35 °C) and was inhibited following treatment with sodium azide (NaN3) and carbonyl cyanide m-chlorophenylhydrazone (CCCP), suggesting the involvement of an active component. Treatment with p-chloromercuribenzenesulfonic acid (PCMBS) did not modify the uptake, indicating that external thiol groups were not necessary. KCl, which induced membrane depolarization had no significant effect, and fusicoccin (FC), which hyperpolarized cell membrane, stimulated the uptake, suggesting that the pH component of the proton motive force was likely a driving force. These data suggest that the SA uptake by the pulvinar tissues may be driven by two components: an ion-trap mechanism playing a pivotal role and a putative carrier-mediated mechanism. Unlike other benzoic acid derivatives acting as classical respiration inhibitors (NaN3 and KCN), SA modified the pulvinar cell metabolism by increasing the respiration rate similar to CCCP and 2,4-dinitrophenol (DNP). Furthermore, SA inhibited the osmoregulated seismonastic reaction in a pH dependent manner and induced characteristic damage to the ultrastructural features of the pulvinar motor cells, particularly at the mitochondrial level. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

  17. Nitroxyl Improves Cellular Heart Function by Directly Enhancing Cardiac Sarcoplasmic Reticulum Ca2+ Cycling

    PubMed Central

    Tocchetti, Carlo G.; Wang, Wang; Froehlich, Jeffrey P.; Huke, Sabine; Aon, Miguel A.; Wilson, Gerald M.; Benedetto, Giulietta Di; O’Rourke, Brian; Gao, Wei Dong; Wink, David A.; Toscano, John P.; Zaccolo, Manuela; Bers, Donald M.; Valdivia, Hector H.; Cheng, Heping; Kass, David A.; Paolocci, Nazareno

    2009-01-01

    Heart failure remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Although depressed pump function is common, development of effective therapies to stimulate contraction has proven difficult. This is thought to be attributable to their frequent reliance on cAMP stimulation to increase activator Ca2+. A potential alternative is nitroxyl (HNO), the 1-electron reduction product of nitric oxide (NO) that improves contraction and relaxation in normal and failing hearts in vivo. The mechanism for myocyte effects remains unknown. Here, we show that this activity results from a direct interaction of HNO with the sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ pump and the ryanodine receptor 2, leading to increased Ca2+ uptake and release from the sarcoplasmic reticulum. HNO increases the open probability of isolated ryanodine-sensitive Ca2+-release channels and accelerates Ca2+ reuptake into isolated sarcoplasmic reticulum by stimulating ATP-dependent Ca2+ transport. Contraction improves with no net rise in diastolic calcium. These changes are not induced by NO, are fully reversible by addition of reducing agents (redox sensitive), and independent of both cAMP/protein kinase A and cGMP/protein kinase G signaling. Rather, the data support HNO/thiolate interactions that enhance the activity of intracellular Ca2+ cycling proteins. These findings suggest HNO donors are attractive candidates for the pharmacological treatment of heart failure. PMID:17138943

  18. Cellular Origin of [18F]FDG-PET Imaging Signals During Ceftriaxone-Stimulated Glutamate Uptake: Astrocytes and Neurons.

    PubMed

    Dienel, Gerald A; Behar, Kevin L; Rothman, Douglas L

    2017-12-01

    Ceftriaxone stimulates astrocytic uptake of the excitatory neurotransmitter glutamate, and it is used to treat glutamatergic excitotoxicity that becomes manifest during many brain diseases. Ceftriaxone-stimulated glutamate transport was reported to drive signals underlying [ 18 F]fluorodeoxyglucose-positron emission tomographic ([ 18 F]FDG-PET) metabolic images of brain glucose utilization and interpreted as supportive of the notion of lactate shuttling from astrocytes to neurons. This study draws attention to critical roles of astrocytes in the energetics and imaging of brain activity, but the results are provocative because (1) the method does not have cellular resolution or provide information about downstream pathways of glucose metabolism, (2) neuronal and astrocytic [ 18 F]FDG uptake were not separately measured, and (3) strong evidence against lactate shuttling was not discussed. Evaluation of potential metabolic responses to ceftriaxone suggests lack of astrocytic specificity and significant contributions by pre- and postsynaptic neuronal compartments. Indeed, astrocytic glycolysis may not make a strong contribution to the [ 18 F]FDG-PET signal because partial or complete oxidation of one glutamate molecule on its uptake generates enough ATP to fuel uptake of 3 to 10 more glutamate molecules, diminishing reliance on glycolysis. The influence of ceftriaxone on energetics of glutamate-glutamine cycling must be determined in astrocytes and neurons to elucidate its roles in excitotoxicity treatment.

  19. Rapid Recycling of Ca2+ between IP3-Sensitive Stores and Lysosomes

    PubMed Central

    López Sanjurjo, Cristina I.; Tovey, Stephen C.; Taylor, Colin W.

    2014-01-01

    Inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3) evokes release of Ca2+ from the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), but the resulting Ca2+ signals are shaped by interactions with additional intracellular organelles. Bafilomycin A1, which prevents lysosomal Ca2+ uptake by inhibiting H+ pumping into lysosomes, increased the amplitude of the initial Ca2+ signals evoked by carbachol in human embryonic kidney (HEK) cells. Carbachol alone and carbachol in combination with parathyroid hormone (PTH) evoke Ca2+ release from distinct IP3-sensitive Ca2+ stores in HEK cells stably expressing human type 1 PTH receptors. Bafilomycin A1 similarly exaggerated the Ca2+ signals evoked by carbachol or carbachol with PTH, indicating that Ca2+ released from distinct IP3-sensitive Ca2+ stores is sequestered by lysosomes. The Ca2+ signals resulting from store-operated Ca2+ entry, whether evoked by thapsigargin or carbachol, were unaffected by bafilomycin A1. Using Gd3+ (1 mM) to inhibit both Ca2+ entry and Ca2+ extrusion, HEK cells were repetitively stimulated with carbachol to assess the effectiveness of Ca2+ recycling to the ER after IP3-evoked Ca2+ release. Blocking lysosomal Ca2+ uptake with bafilomycin A1 increased the amplitude of each carbachol-evoked Ca2+ signal without affecting the rate of Ca2+ recycling to the ER. This suggests that Ca2+ accumulated by lysosomes is rapidly returned to the ER. We conclude that lysosomes rapidly, reversibly and selectively accumulate the Ca2+ released by IP3 receptors residing within distinct Ca2+ stores, but not the Ca2+ entering cells via receptor-regulated, store-operated Ca2+ entry pathways. PMID:25337829

  20. Rapid recycling of Ca2+ between IP3-sensitive stores and lysosomes.

    PubMed

    López Sanjurjo, Cristina I; Tovey, Stephen C; Taylor, Colin W

    2014-01-01

    Inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3) evokes release of Ca2+ from the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), but the resulting Ca2+ signals are shaped by interactions with additional intracellular organelles. Bafilomycin A1, which prevents lysosomal Ca2+ uptake by inhibiting H+ pumping into lysosomes, increased the amplitude of the initial Ca2+ signals evoked by carbachol in human embryonic kidney (HEK) cells. Carbachol alone and carbachol in combination with parathyroid hormone (PTH) evoke Ca2+ release from distinct IP3-sensitive Ca2+ stores in HEK cells stably expressing human type 1 PTH receptors. Bafilomycin A1 similarly exaggerated the Ca2+ signals evoked by carbachol or carbachol with PTH, indicating that Ca2+ released from distinct IP3-sensitive Ca2+ stores is sequestered by lysosomes. The Ca2+ signals resulting from store-operated Ca2+ entry, whether evoked by thapsigargin or carbachol, were unaffected by bafilomycin A1. Using Gd3+ (1 mM) to inhibit both Ca2+ entry and Ca2+ extrusion, HEK cells were repetitively stimulated with carbachol to assess the effectiveness of Ca2+ recycling to the ER after IP3-evoked Ca2+ release. Blocking lysosomal Ca2+ uptake with bafilomycin A1 increased the amplitude of each carbachol-evoked Ca2+ signal without affecting the rate of Ca2+ recycling to the ER. This suggests that Ca2+ accumulated by lysosomes is rapidly returned to the ER. We conclude that lysosomes rapidly, reversibly and selectively accumulate the Ca2+ released by IP3 receptors residing within distinct Ca2+ stores, but not the Ca2+ entering cells via receptor-regulated, store-operated Ca2+ entry pathways.

  1. CaMKII-dependent endoplasmic reticulum fission by whisker stimulation and during cortical spreading depolarization.

    PubMed

    Kucharz, Krzysztof; Lauritzen, Martin

    2018-04-01

    Cortical spreading depolarization waves, the cause underlying migraine aura, are also the markers and mechanism of pathology in the acutely injured human brain. Propagation of spreading depolarization wave uniquely depends on the interaction between presynaptic and postsynaptic glutamate N-methyl-d-aspartate receptors (NMDARs). In the normally perfused brain, even a single wave causes a massive depolarization of neurons and glia, which results in transient loss of neuronal function and depression of the ongoing electrocorticographic activity. Endoplasmic reticulum is the cellular organelle of particular importance for modulation of neurotransmission. Neuronal endoplasmic reticulum structure is assumed to be persistently continuous in neurons, but is rapidly lost within 1 to 2 min of global cerebral ischaemia, i.e. the organelle disintegrates by fission. This phenomenon appears to be timed with the cardiac arrest-induced cortical spreading depolarizations, rather than ensuing cell death. To what extent NMDAR-dependent processes may trigger neuronal endoplasmic reticulum fission and whether fission is reversible in the normally perfused brain is unknown. We used two-photon microscopy to examine neuronal endoplasmic reticulum structural dynamics during whisker stimulation and cortical spreading depolarizations in vivo. Somatosensory stimulation triggered loss of endoplasmic reticulum continuity, a likely outcome of constriction and fission, in dendritic spines within less than 10 s of stimulation, which was spontaneously reversible and recovery to normal took 5 min. The endoplasmic reticulum fission was inhibited by blockade of NMDAR and Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII) activated downstream of the NMDARs, whereas inhibition of guanosine triphosphate hydrolases hindered regain of endoplasmic reticulum continuity, i.e. fusion. In contrast to somatosensory stimulation, endoplasmic reticulum fission during spreading depolarization was widespread and

  2. DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Krall, J.F.; Morin, A.

    Cells growing in culture with previously described properties of rat uterine smooth muscle accumulated /sup 45/Ca/sup 2 +/ from the medium. Ca/sup 2 +/ uptake by these cells was stimulated by the addition to the medium of 8-bromo-cGMP but not by 8-bromo-cAMP. Ca/sup 2 +/ uptake was also stimulated by carbachol and by the nitro-vasodilator nitroprusside. Although cholinergic agonists have been shown previously to stimulate contraction but not cGMP synthesis in the rat myometrium, both carbachol and nitroprusside stimulated cGMP production by the cultured cells. These results suggested the cells had cholinergic receptor-medicated functions that reflected some neurotransmitter-sensitive properties ofmore » uterine smooth muscle in situ. When determined by a specific radioligand binding assay, subcellular fractions of the cultured cells bound muscarinic cholinergic agonists and antagonists with affinities expected of the muscarinic receptor. The cells were also sensitive to the ..beta..-adrenergic catecholamine agonist isoproterenol, which stimulated cAMP production but not Ca/sup 2 +/ uptake. Carbachol failed to inhibit isoproterenol-dependent cAMP production, which is an important property of the cholinergic receptor in uterine smooth muscle in situ. These results suggest some but not all acetylcholine-sensitive properties of uterine smooth muscle may be retained in cell culture.« less

  3. Effect of parathyroid hormone on transport by toad and turtle bladder

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Sabatini, S.; Kurtzman, N.A.

    1987-01-01

    The authors recently demonstrated that parathyroid hormone (PTH) inhibited both vasopressin- and cyclic AMP-stimulated water transport in the toad bladder. This was associated with an increase in calcium uptake by isolated epithelial cells. They postulated that PTH exerts its action on H/sub 2/O transport by directly stimulating calcium uptake. The current study was designed to compare the effects of PTH and the calcium ionophore, A23187, on H/sub 2/O and Na transport and H..mu.. secretion in toad and turtle bladders. In toad bladder, PTH and A23187 decreased arginine vasopressin (AVP)-stimulated H/sub 2/O flow and short-circuit current (SCC) after 60 min serosalmore » incubation. In turtle bladder A23187 decreased SCC to 79.3 +/- 3.6% of base line (P < 0.05), and significantly decreased RSCC as well. PTH had no effect on SCC or H/sup +/ secretion in turtle bladders. Both PTH and A23187 increased /sup 45/Ca uptake in toad bladder epithelial cells; only A23187 increased /sup 45/Ca uptake in the turtle bladder. The different action of PTH in these two membranes, compared with that of the calcium ionophore, illustrates the selectivity of PTH on membrane transport. PTH increases calcium uptake and decreases transport only in a hormone-sensitive epithelium, whereas the ionophore works in virtually all living membranes. The mode of action of these two agents to increase calcium uptake is, therefore likely different.« less

  4. Propionic acid and butyric acid inhibit lipolysis and de novo lipogenesis and increase insulin-stimulated glucose uptake in primary rat adipocytes

    PubMed Central

    Heimann, Emilia; Nyman, Margareta; Degerman, Eva

    2014-01-01

    Fermentation of dietary fibers by colonic microbiota generates short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), e.g., propionic acid and butyric acid, which have been described to have “anti-obesity properties” by ameliorating fasting glycaemia, body weight and insulin tolerance in animal models. In the present study, we therefore investigate if propionic acid and butyric acid have effects on lipolysis, de novo lipogenesis and glucose uptake in primary rat adipocytes. We show that both propionic acid and butyric acid inhibit isoproterenol- and adenosine deaminase-stimulated lipolysis as well as isoproterenol-stimulated lipolysis in the presence of a phosphodiesterase (PDE3) inhibitor. In addition, we show that propionic acid and butyric acid inhibit basal and insulin-stimulated de novo lipogenesis, which is associated with increased phosphorylation and thus inhibition of acetyl CoA carboxylase, a rate-limiting enzyme in fatty acid synthesis. Furthermore, we show that propionic acid and butyric acid increase insulin-stimulated glucose uptake. To conclude, our study shows that SCFAs have effects on fat storage and mobilization as well as glucose uptake in rat primary adipocytes. Thus, the SCFAs might contribute to healthier adipocytes and subsequently also to improved energy metabolism with for example less circulating free fatty acids, which is beneficial in the context of obesity and type 2 diabetes. PMID:26167409

  5. Propionic acid and butyric acid inhibit lipolysis and de novo lipogenesis and increase insulin-stimulated glucose uptake in primary rat adipocytes.

    PubMed

    Heimann, Emilia; Nyman, Margareta; Degerman, Eva

    2015-01-01

    Fermentation of dietary fibers by colonic microbiota generates short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), e.g., propionic acid and butyric acid, which have been described to have "anti-obesity properties" by ameliorating fasting glycaemia, body weight and insulin tolerance in animal models. In the present study, we therefore investigate if propionic acid and butyric acid have effects on lipolysis, de novo lipogenesis and glucose uptake in primary rat adipocytes. We show that both propionic acid and butyric acid inhibit isoproterenol- and adenosine deaminase-stimulated lipolysis as well as isoproterenol-stimulated lipolysis in the presence of a phosphodiesterase (PDE3) inhibitor. In addition, we show that propionic acid and butyric acid inhibit basal and insulin-stimulated de novo lipogenesis, which is associated with increased phosphorylation and thus inhibition of acetyl CoA carboxylase, a rate-limiting enzyme in fatty acid synthesis. Furthermore, we show that propionic acid and butyric acid increase insulin-stimulated glucose uptake. To conclude, our study shows that SCFAs have effects on fat storage and mobilization as well as glucose uptake in rat primary adipocytes. Thus, the SCFAs might contribute to healthier adipocytes and subsequently also to improved energy metabolism with for example less circulating free fatty acids, which is beneficial in the context of obesity and type 2 diabetes.

  6. Abscisic acid activates a Ca2+-calmodulin-stimulated protein kinase involved in antioxidant defense in maize leaves.

    PubMed

    Xu, Shucheng

    2010-09-01

    The role of a calcium-dependent and calmodulin (CaM)-stimulated protein kinase in abscisic acid (ABA)-induced antioxidant defense was determined in leaves of maize (Zea mays). In-gel kinase assays showed that treatments with ABA or H(2)O(2) induced the activation of a 49-kDa protein kinase and a 52-kDa protein kinase significantly. Furthermore, we showed that the 52-kDa protein kinase has the characteristics of CaM-stimulating activity and is sensitive to calcium-CaM-dependent protein kinase II (CaMK II) inhibitor KN-93 or CaM antagonist W-7. Treatments with ABA or H(2)O(2) not only induced the activation of the 52-kDa protein kinase, but also enhanced the total activities of the antioxidant enzymes, including catalase, ascorbate peroxidase, glutathione reductase, and superoxide dismutase. Such enhancements were blocked by pretreatment with a CaMK inhibitor and a reactive oxygen species (ROS) inhibitor or scavenger. Pretreatment with the CaMK inhibitor also substantially arrested the ABA-induced H(2)O(2) production. Kinase activity enhancements induced by ABA were attenuated by pretreatment with an ROS inhibitor or scavenger. These results suggest that the 52-kDa CaMK is involved in ABA-induced antioxidant defense and that cross-talk between CaMK and H(2)O(2) plays a pivotal role in ABA signaling. We infer that CaMK acts both upstream and downstream of H(2)O(2), but mainly acts between ABA and H(2)O(2) in ABA-induced antioxidant-defensive signaling.

  7. Corrosion resistance of steel materials in LiCl-KCl melts

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Wang, Le; Li, Bing; Shen, Miao; Li, Shi-yan; Yu, Jian-guo

    2012-10-01

    The corrosion behaviors of 304SS, 316LSS, and Q235A in LiCl-KCl melts were investigated at 450°C by Tafel curves and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). 316LSS shows the best corrosion resistance behaviors among the three materials, including the most positive corrosion potential and the smallest corrosion current from the Tafel curves and the largest electron transfer resistance from the Nyquist plots. The results are in good agreement with the weight losses in the static corrosion experiments for 45 h. This may be attributed to the better corrosion resistance of Mo and Ni existing as alloy elements in 316LSS, which exhibit the lower corrosion current densities and more positive corrosion potentials than 316LSS in the same melts.

  8. Long-term modulation of mitochondrial Ca2+ signals by protein kinase C isozymes

    PubMed Central

    Pinton, Paolo; Leo, Sara; Wieckowski, Mariusz R.; Di Benedetto, Giulietta; Rizzuto, Rosario

    2004-01-01

    The modulation of Ca2+ signaling patterns during repetitive stimulations represents an important mechanism for integrating through time the inputs received by a cell. By either overexpressing the isoforms of protein kinase C (PKC) or inhibiting them with specific blockers, we investigated the role of this family of proteins in regulating the dynamic interplay of the intracellular Ca2+ pools. The effects of the different isoforms spanned from the reduction of ER Ca2+ release (PKCα) to the increase or reduction of mitochondrial Ca2+ uptake (PKCζ and PKCβ/PKCδ, respectively). This PKC-dependent regulatory mechanism underlies the process of mitochondrial Ca2+ desensitization, which in turn modulates cellular responses (e.g., insulin secretion). These results demonstrate that organelle Ca2+ homeostasis (and in particular mitochondrial processing of Ca2+ signals) is tuned through the wide molecular repertoire of intracellular Ca2+ transducers. PMID:15096525

  9. Thermally stimulated luminescence studies of undoped, Cu- and Mn-doped CaSO4 compounds

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Manam, J.; Das, S.

    Thermally stimulated luminescence (TSL) of undoped and doped CaSO4 with activators such as Cu and Mn has been investigated. The polycrystalline samples of undoped and doped CaSO4 are prepared by the melting method. The formation of CaSO4 compound is confirmed by X-ray diffraction and Fourier transform infrared studies. Scanning electron microscopic studies of CaSO4 are also carried out. The TSL glow curves of undoped CaSO4, Cu- and Mn-doped CaSO4 are studied. Comparison of the thermoluminescence (TL) intensity of the most intensive glow peak of Cu-doped CaSO4 compound with that of undoped CaSO4 shows that addition of Cu impurity in CaSO4 compound enhances the TL intensity by about four times. However, the addition of Mn impurity to undoped CaSO4 increases the TL intensity by about three times when compared with that of undoped CaSO4. The TL-dose dependence of all three samples was studied and was observed to be almost linear in the studied range of irradiation time. Among the samples studied, namely undoped CaSO4 and Cu- and Mn-doped CaSO4, Cu-doped CaSO4 is found to be the most sensitive. The trap parameters, namely order of kinetics (b), activation energy (E) and frequency factor (s) associated with the most intensive glow peaks of CaSO4:Mn, CaSO4:Cu and CaSO4 phosphors were determined using the glow curve shape (Chen's) method.

  10. Temperature optimum of insulin-stimulated 2-deoxy-D-glucose uptake in rat adipocytes. Correlation of cellular transport with membrane spin-label and fluorescence-label data.

    PubMed Central

    Hyslop, P A; Kuhn, C E; Sauerheber, R D

    1984-01-01

    The effects of temperature alterations between 22 degrees C and 48 degrees C on basal and insulin-stimulated 2-deoxy-D-[1-14C]glucose uptake were examined in isolated rat adipocytes. A distinct optimum was found near physiological temperature for uptake in the presence of maximally effective insulin concentrations where insulin stimulation and hexose uptake were both conducted at each given assay temperature. Basal uptake was only subtly affected. Control and maximally insulin-stimulated cells incubated at 35 degrees C subsequently exhibited minimal temperature-sensitivity of uptake measured between 30 and 43 degrees C. The data are mostly consistent with the concept that insulin-sensitive glucose transporters are, after stimulation by insulin, functionally similar to basal transporters. Adipocyte plasma membranes were labelled with various spin- and fluorescence-label probes in lipid structural studies. The temperature-dependence of the order parameter S calculated from membranes labelled with 5-nitroxide stearate indicated the presence of a lipid phase change at approx. 33 degrees C. Membranes labelled with the fluorescence label 1,6-diphenylhexa-1,3,5-triene, or the cholesterol-like spin label nitroxide cholestane, reveal sharp transitions at lower temperatures. We suggest that a thermotropic lipid phase separation occurs in the adipocyte membrane that may be correlated with the temperature-dependence of hexose transport and insulin action in the intact cells. PMID:6324752

  11. The Role of Mitochondria in the Activation/Maintenance of SOCE: The Contribution of Mitochondrial Ca2+ Uptake, Mitochondrial Motility, and Location to Store-Operated Ca2+ Entry.

    PubMed

    Malli, Roland; Graier, Wolfgang F

    2017-01-01

    In most cell types, the depletion of internal Ca 2+ stores triggers the activation of Ca 2+ entry. This crucial phenomenon is known since the 1980s and referred to as store-operated Ca 2+ entry (SOCE). With the discoveries of the stromal-interacting molecules (STIMs) and the Ca 2+ -permeable Orai channels as the long-awaited molecular constituents of SOCE, the role of mitochondria in controlling the activity of this particular Ca 2+ entry pathway is kind of buried in oblivion. However, the capability of mitochondria to locally sequester Ca 2+ at sites of Ca 2+ release and entry was initially supposed to rule SOCE by facilitating the Ca 2+ depletion of the endoplasmic reticulum and removing entering Ca 2+ from the Ca 2+ -inhibitable channels, respectively. Moreover, the central role of these organelles in controlling the cellular energy metabolism has been linked to the activity of SOCE. Nevertheless, the exact molecular mechanisms by which mitochondria actually determine SOCE are still pretty obscure. In this essay we describe the complexity of the mitochondrial Ca 2+ uptake machinery and its regulation, molecular components, and properties, which open new ways for scrutinizing the contribution of mitochondria to SOCE. Moreover, data concerning the variability of the morphology and cellular distribution of mitochondria as putative determinants of SOCE activation, maintenance, and termination are summarized.

  12. Angiotensin II upregulates K(Ca)3.1 channels and stimulates cell proliferation in rat cardiac fibroblasts.

    PubMed

    Wang, Li-Ping; Wang, Yan; Zhao, Li-Mei; Li, Gui-Rong; Deng, Xiu-Ling

    2013-05-15

    The proliferation of cardiac fibroblasts is implicated in the pathogenesis of myocardial remodeling and fibrosis. Intermediate-conductance calcium-activated K⁺ channels (K(Ca)3.1 channels) have important roles in cell proliferation. However, it is unknown whether angiotensin II (Ang II), a potent profibrotic molecule, would regulate K(Ca)3.1 channels in cardiac fibroblasts and participate in cell proliferation. In the present study, we investigated whether K(Ca)3.1 channels were regulated by Ang II, and how the channel activity mediated cell proliferation in cultured adult rat cardiac fibroblasts using electrophysiology and biochemical approaches. It was found that mRNA, protein, and current density of K(Ca)3.1 channels were greatly enhanced in cultured cardiac fibroblasts treated with 1 μM Ang II, and the effects were countered by the angiotensin type 1 receptor (AT₁R) blocker losartan, the p38-MAPK inhibitor SB203580, the ERK1/2 inhibitor PD98059, and the PI3K/Akt inhibitor LY294002. Ang II stimulated cell proliferation and the effect was antagonized by the K(Ca)3.1 blocker TRAM-34 and siRNA targeting K(Ca)3.1. In addition, Ang II-induced increase of K(Ca)3.1 expression was attenuated by transfection of activator protein-1 (AP-1) decoy oligodeoxynucleotides. These results demonstrate for the first time that Ang II stimulates cell proliferation mediated by upregulating K(Ca)3.1 channels via interacting with the AT₁R and activating AP-1 complex through ERK1/2, p38-MAPK and PI3K/Akt signaling pathways in cultured adult rat cardiac fibroblasts. Crown Copyright © 2013. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  13. β-Adrenergic Receptor Stimulated Ncx1 Upregulation is Mediated via a CaMKII/AP-1 Signaling Pathway in Adult Cardiomyocytes

    PubMed Central

    Mani, Santhosh K.; Egan, Erin A.; Addy, Benjamin K.; Grimm, Michael; Kasiganesan, Harinath; Thiyagarajan, Thirumagal; Renaud, Ludivine; Brown, Joan Heller; Kern, Christine B.; Menick, Donald R.

    2013-01-01

    The Na+-Ca2+ exchanger gene (Ncx1) is upregulated in hypertrophy and is often found elevated in end-stage heart failure. Studies have shown that the change in its expression contributes to contractile dysfunction. β-adrenergic receptor (β-AR) signaling plays an important role in the regulation of calcium homeostasis in the cardiomyocyte but chronic activation in periods of cardiac stress contribute to heart failure by mechanisms which include Ncx1 upregulation. Here, using a Ca2+/Calmodulin-Dependent Protein Kinase II (CaMKIIδc) null mouse, we demonstrate that β-AR-stimulated Ncx1 upregulation is dependent on CaMKII. β-AR-stimulated Ncx1 expression is mediated by activator protein 1 (AP-1) factors and is independent of cAMP-response element-binding protein (CREB) activation. The MAP kinases (ERK1/2, JNK and p38) are not required for AP-1 factor activation. Chromatin immunoprecipitation demonstrates that β-AR stimulation activates the ordered recruitment of JunB homodimers which then are replaced by c-Jun homodimers binding to the proximal AP-1 elements of the endogenous Ncx1 promoter. In conclusion, this work has provided insight into the intracellular signaling pathways and transcription factors regulating Ncx1 gene expression in a chronically β-AR-stimulated heart. PMID:19945464

  14. Decreased cardiac SERCA2 expression, SR Ca uptake, and contractile function in hypothyroidism are attenuated in SERCA2 overexpressing transgenic rats.

    PubMed

    Vetter, Roland; Rehfeld, Uwe; Reissfelder, Christoph; Fechner, Henry; Seppet, Enn; Kreutz, Reinhold

    2011-03-01

    The sarco/endoplasmic reticulum (SR) Ca(2+)-ATPase SERCA2a has a key role in controlling cardiac contraction and relaxation. In hypothyroidism, decreased expression of the thyroid hormone (TH)-responsive SERCA2 gene contributes to slowed SR Ca(2+) reuptake and relaxation. We investigated whether cardiac expression of a TH-insensitive SERCA2a cDNA minigene can rescue SR Ca(2+) handling and contractile function in female SERCA2a-transgenic rats (TG) with experimental hypothyroidism. Wild-type rats (WT) and TG were rendered hypothyroid by 6-N-propyl-2-thiouracil treatment for 6 wk; control rats received no treatment. In vivo measured left ventricular (LV) hemodynamic parameters were compared with SERCA2a expression and function in LV tissue. Hypothyroidism decreased LV peak systolic pressure, dP/dt(max), and dP/dt(min) in both WT and TG. However, loss of function was less in TG. Thus slowed relaxation in hypothyroidism was found to be 1.5-fold faster in TG compared with WT (P < 0.05). In parallel, a 1.4-fold higher V(max) value of homogenate SR Ca(2+) uptake was observed in hypothyroid TG (P < 0.05 vs. hypothyroid WT), and the hypothyroidism-caused decline of LV SERCA2a mRNA expression in TG by -24% was markedly less than the decrease of -49% in WT (P < 0.05). A linear relationship was observed between the SERCA2a/PLB mRNA ratio values and the V(max) values of SR Ca(2+) uptake when the respective data of all experimental groups were plotted together (r = 0.90). The data show that expression of the TH-insensitive SERCA2a minigene compensates for loss of expressional activity of the TH-responsive native SERCA2a gene in the female hypothyroid rat heart. However, SR Ca(2+) uptake and in vivo heart function were only partially rescued.

  15. Regulation of K-Cl cotransport: from function to genes.

    PubMed

    Adragna, N C; Di Fulvio, M; Lauf, P K

    2004-10-01

    This review intends to summarize the vast literature on K-Cl cotransport (COT) regulation from a functional and genetic viewpoint. Special attention has been given to the signaling pathways involved in the transporter's regulation found in several tissues and cell types, and more specifically, in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs). The number of publications on K-Cl COT has been steadily increasing since its discovery at the beginning of the 1980s, with red blood cells (RBCs) from different species (human, sheep, dog, rabbit, guinea pig, turkey, duck, frog, rat, mouse, fish, and lamprey) being the most studied model. Other tissues/cell types under study are brain, kidney, epithelia, muscle/smooth muscle, tumor cells, heart, liver, insect cells, endothelial cells, bone, platelets, thymocytes and Leishmania donovani. One of the salient properties of K-Cl-COT is its activation by cell swelling and its participation in the recovery of cell volume, a process known as regulatory volume decrease (RVD). Activation by thiol modification with N-ethylmaleimide (NEM) has spawned investigations on the redox dependence of K-Cl COT, and is used as a positive control for the operation of the system in many tissues and cells. The most accepted model of K-Cl COT regulation proposes protein kinases and phosphatases linked in a chain of phosphorylation/dephosphorylation events. More recent studies include regulatory pathways involving the phosphatidyl inositol/protein kinase C (PKC)-mediated pathway for regulation by lithium (Li) in low-K sheep red blood cells (LK SRBCs), and the nitric oxide (NO)/cGMP/protein kinase G (PKG) pathway as well as the platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)-mediated mechanism in VSMCs. Studies on VSM transfected cells containing the PKG catalytic domain demonstrated the participation of this enzyme in K-Cl COT regulation. Commonly used vasodilators activate K-Cl COT in a dose-dependent manner through the NO/cGMP/PKG pathway. Interaction between the

  16. Decreased afferent excitability contributes to synaptic depression during high-frequency stimulation in hippocampal area CA1

    PubMed Central

    Kim, Eunyoung; Owen, Benjamin; Holmes, William R.

    2012-01-01

    Long-term potentiation (LTP) is often induced experimentally by continuous high-frequency afferent stimulation (HFS), typically at 100 Hz for 1 s. Induction of LTP requires postsynaptic depolarization and voltage-dependent calcium influx. Induction is more effective if the same number of stimuli are given as a series of short bursts rather than as continuous HFS, in part because excitatory postsynaptic potentials (EPSPs) become strongly depressed during HFS, reducing postsynaptic depolarization. In this study, we examined mechanisms of EPSP depression during HFS in area CA1 of rat hippocampal brain slices. We tested for presynaptic terminal vesicle depletion by examining minimal stimulation-evoked excitatory postsynaptic currents (EPSCs) during 100-Hz HFS. While transmission failures increased, consistent with vesicle depletion, EPSC latencies also increased during HFS, suggesting a decrease in afferent excitability. Extracellular recordings of Schaffer collateral fiber volleys confirmed a decrease in afferent excitability, with decreased fiber volley amplitudes and increased latencies during HFS. To determine the mechanism responsible for fiber volley changes, we recorded antidromic action potentials in single CA3 pyramidal neurons evoked by stimulating Schaffer collateral axons. During HFS, individual action potentials decreased in amplitude and increased in latency, and these changes were accompanied by a large increase in the probability of action potential failure. Time derivative and phase-plane analyses indicated decreases in both axon initial segment and somato-dendritic components of CA3 neuron action potentials. Our results indicate that decreased presynaptic axon excitability contributes to depression of excitatory synaptic transmission during HFS at synapses between Schaffer collaterals and CA1 pyramidal neurons. PMID:22773781

  17. Inhibition of muscarinic-stimulated polyphosphoinositide hydrolysis and Ca2+ mobilization in cat iris sphincter smooth muscle cells by cAMP-elevating agents.

    PubMed

    Ding, K H; Husain, S; Akhtar, R A; Isales, C M; Abdel-Latif, A A

    1997-09-01

    The effects of carbachol (CCh) on inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3) production and intracellular calcium ([Ca2+]i) mobilization, and their regulation by cAMP-elevating agents were investigated in SV-40 transformed cat iris sphincter smooth muscle (SV-CISM-2) cells. CCh produced time- and dose-dependent increases in IP3 production; the t1/2 and EC50 values were 68 s and 0.5 microM, respectively. The muscarinic agonist provoked a transient increase in [Ca2+]i which reached maximum within 77 s, and increased [Ca2+]i mobilization in a concentration-dependent manner with an EC50 of 1.4 microM. Thapsigargin, a Ca(2+)-pump inhibitor, caused a rapid rise in [Ca2+]i and subsequent addition of CCh was without effect. Both CCh-induced IP3 production and CCh-induced [Ca2+]i mobilization were more potently antagonized by 4-DAMP, an M3 muscarinic receptor antagonist, than by pirenzepine, an M1 receptor antagonist, suggesting that both responses are mediated through the M3 receptor subtype. Treatment of the cells with U73122, a phospholipase C (PLC) inhibitor, resulted in a concentration-dependent decrease in both CCh-stimulated IP3 production and [Ca2+]i mobilization. These data indicate close correlation between enhanced IP3 production and [Ca2+]i mobilization in these smooth muscle cells and suggest that the CCh-stimulated increase in [Ca2+]i could be mediated through increased IP3 production. Isoproterenol (ISO) inhibited CCh-induced IP3 production (IC50 = 80 nM) and [Ca2+]i mobilization (IC50 = 0.17 microM) in a concentration-dependent manner. Microsomal fractions isolated from SV-CISM-2 cells contained phospholipase C (PLC) which was stimulated by CCh (10 microM) and GTP gamma S (0.1 microM). Pretreatment of the cells with ISO or forskolin, 5 microM each, produced membrane fractions in which CCh-stimulated PLC activity was significantly attenuated. Furthermore, when microsomal fractions isolated from SV-CISM-2 cells were phosphorylated with Protein kinase A (PKA), the CCh

  18. Neuronal-specific endoplasmic reticulum Mg(2+)/Ca(2+) ATPase Ca(2+) sequestration in mixed primary hippocampal culture homogenates.

    PubMed

    Parsons, J Travis; Sun, David A; DeLorenzo, Robert J; Churn, Severn B

    2004-07-01

    Endoplasmic reticulum Mg(2+)/Ca(2+) ATPase Ca(2+) sequestration is crucial for maintenance of neuronal Ca(2+) homeostasis. The use of cell culture in conjunction with modern Ca(2+) imaging techniques has been invaluable in elucidating these mechanisms. While imaging protocols evaluate endoplasmic reticulum Ca(2+) loads, measurement of Mg(2+)/Ca(2+) ATPase activity is indirect, comparing cytosolic Ca(2+) levels in the presence or absence of the Mg(2+)/Ca(2+) ATPase inhibitor thapsigargin. Direct measurement of Mg(2+)/Ca(2+) ATPase by isolation of microsomes is impossible due to the minuscule amounts of protein yielded from cultures used for imaging. In the current study, endoplasmic reticulum Mg(2+)/Ca(2+) ATPase Ca(2+) sequestration was measured in mixed homogenates of neurons and glia from primary hippocampal cultures. It was demonstrated that Ca(2+) uptake was mediated by the endoplasmic reticulum Mg(2+)/Ca(2+) ATPase due to its dependence on ATP and Mg(2+), enhancement by oxalate, and inhibition by thapsigargin. It was also shown that neuronal Ca(2+) uptake, mediated by the type 2 sarco(endo)plasmic reticulum Ca(2+) ATPase isoform, could be distinguished from glial Ca(2+) uptake in homogenates composed of neurons and glia. Finally, it was revealed that Ca(2+) uptake was sensitive to incubation on ice, extremely labile in the absence of protease inhibitors, and significantly more stable under storage conditions at -80 degrees C.

  19. ACUTE EFFECT OF ETHANOL ON HEPATIC RETICULAR G6Pase AND Ca2+ POOL

    PubMed Central

    Jacobs-Harper, Amy; Crumbly, Ashlee; Romani, Andrea

    2012-01-01

    Background Hydrolysis of glucose 6-phosphate via glucose 6-phosphatase enlarges the reticular Ca2+ pool of the hepatocyte. Exposure of liver cells to ethanol impairs reticular Ca2+ homeostasis. The present study investigated the effect of acute ethanol administration on glucose 6-phosphate supported Ca2+ accumulation in liver cells. Methods Total microsomes were isolated from rat livers acutely perfused with varying doses of ethanol (0.01%, 0.1%, or 1% v/v) for 8 minutes. Calcium uptake was assessed by 45Ca redistribution. Inorganic phosphate (Pi) formation was measured as an indicator of glucose 6-phosphatase hydrolytic activity. Results Glucose 6-phosphate-supported Ca2+ uptake decreased in a manner directly proportional to the dose of ethanol infused in the liver whereas Ca2+ uptake via SERCA pumps was decreased by ~25% only at the highest dose of alcohol administered. The reduced accumulation of Ca2+ within the microsomes resulted in a smaller IP3-induced Ca2+ release. Kinetic assessment of IP3 and passive Ca2+ release indicated a faster mobilization in microsomes from ethanol-treated livers, suggesting alcohol-induced alteration of Ca2+ releasing mechanisms. Pre-treatment of livers with chloromethiazole or dithio-threitol, but not 4-methyl-pyrazole prevented the inhibitory effect of ethanol on glucose 6-phosphatase activity and Ca2+ homeostasis. Conclusions Liver glucose 6-phosphatase activity and IP3-mediated Ca2+ release are rapidly inhibited following acute (8 min) exposure to ethanol, thus compromising the ability of the endoplasmic reticulum to dynamically modulate Ca2+ homeostasis in the hepatocyte. The protective effect of chloromethiazole and di-thio-threitol suggests that the inhibitory effect of ethanol is mediated through its metabolism via reticular cyP4502E1 and consequent free radicals formation. PMID:22958133

  20. Preparation and Humidity Sensing Properties of KCl/MCM-41 Composite

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Liu, Li; Kou, Li-Ying; Zhong, Zhi-Cheng; Wang, Lian-Yuan; Liu, Li-Fang; Li, Wei

    2010-05-01

    KCl/mobil composition of matter-41 (MCM-41) composite has been synthesized via a heat-treating process and characterized by x-ray diffraction, high resolution transmission electron microscopy, and nitrogen adsorption/desorption isotherms. In contrast with pure MCM-41, KCl/MCM-41 composite exhibits improved humidity sensing properties within the relative humidity range of 11-95%. The impedance of KCl/MCM-41 composite changes by about four orders of magnitude over the whole humidity range with the response time and the recovery times are about 30 s and 35 s, respectively. Small humidity hysteresis and good stability are also observed based on our product. These results make our product a good candidate in fabricating humidity sensors with high performances and low synthetic complexity.

  1. Myogenic tone is impaired at low arterial pressure in mice deficient in the low-voltage-activated CaV 3.1 T-type Ca(2+) channel.

    PubMed

    Björling, K; Morita, H; Olsen, M F; Prodan, A; Hansen, P B; Lory, P; Holstein-Rathlou, N-H; Jensen, L J

    2013-04-01

    Using mice deficient in the CaV 3.1 T-type Ca(2+) channel, the aim of the present study was to elucidate the molecular identity of non-L-type channels involved in vascular tone regulation in mesenteric arteries and arterioles. We used immunofluorescence microscopy to localize CaV 3.1 channels, patch clamp electrophysiology to test the effects of a putative T-type channel blocker NNC 55-0396 on whole-cell Ca(2+) currents, pressure myography and Ca(2+) imaging to test diameter and Ca(2+) responses of the applied vasoconstrictors, and Q-PCR to check mRNA expression levels of several Ca(2+) handling proteins in wild-type and CaV 3.1(-/-) mice. Our data indicated that CaV 3.1 channels are important for the maintenance of myogenic tone at low pressures (40-80 mm Hg), whereas they are not involved in high-voltage-activated Ca(2+) currents, Ca(2+) entry or vasoconstriction to high KCl in mesenteric arteries and arterioles. Furthermore, we show that NNC 55-0396 is not a specific T-type channel inhibitor, as it potently blocks L-type and non-L-type high-voltage-activated Ca(2+) currents in mouse mesenteric vascular smooth muscle cell. Our data using mice deficient in the CaV 3.1 T-type channel represent new evidence for the involvement of non-L-type channels in arteriolar tone regulation. We showed that CaV 3.1 channels are important for the myogenic tone at low arterial pressure, which is potentially relevant under resting conditions in vivo. Moreover, CaV 3.1 channels are not involved in Ca(2+) entry and vasoconstriction to large depolarization with, for example, high KCl. Finally, we caution against using NNC 55-0396 as a specific T-type channel blocker in native cells expressing high-voltage-activated Ca(2+) channels. Acta Physiologica © 2013 Scandinavian Physiological Society.

  2. Investigation of Fe and Ca in non-stimulated human saliva using NAA

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    de Medeiros, J. A. G.; Zamboni, C. B.; Kovacs, L.; Lewgoy, H. R.

    2015-07-01

    In this study we investigated non-stimulated human whole saliva of healthy subjects and patients with periodontal disease using Neutron Activation Analysis technique (NAA). The measurements were performed in the IEA-R1 nuclear reactor at IPEN-CNEN/SP. We found considerable metabolic changes mainly in Fe and Ca concentration in whole saliva of periodontal patients. These data are useful for identifying or preventing this oral disease in the Brazilian population.

  3. Thermally and optically stimulated radiative processes in Eu and Y co-doped LiCaAlF6 crystal

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Fukuda, Kentaro; Yanagida, Takayuki; Fujimoto, Yutaka

    2015-06-01

    Yttrium co-doping was attempted to enhance dosimeter performance of Eu doped LiCaAlF6 crystal. Eu doped and Eu, Y co-doped LiCaAlF6 were prepared by the micro-pulling-down technique, and their dosimeter characteristics such as optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) and thermally stimulated luminescence (TSL) were investigated. By yttrium co-doping, emission intensities of OSL and TSL were enhanced by some orders of magnitude. In contrast, scintillation characteristics of yttrium co-doped crystal such as intensity of prompt luminescence induced by X-ray and light yield under neutron irradiation were degraded.

  4. Optical studies of CaS:Eu,Sm infrared stimulable phosphors

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Tamura, Yasuaki; Shibukawa, Atsushi

    1993-07-01

    The photoluminescence (PL) and infrared stimulated luminescence (ISL) spectra of CaS:Eu,Sm infrared stimulable phosphors (ISPs) are studied. In addition, the concentration dependence of ISL intensity is examined. Sm(3+) and Eu(2+) related structures are found in both the PL excitation and emission spectra. Two types of Sm(3+) are found, one of which exhibits strong emission at around 650 nm and the other weak emission compared to the other emissions at around 565 nm and 605 nm. These are assigned to an asymmetric and a symmetric site, respectively. ISL excitation spectra coincide with the Eu(2+) 4f(sup 7) to 4f(sup 6)5d(sup 1) and 4f(sup 6)6s(sup 1) transitions and range from 220 to 650 nm. ISL emission spectra coincide with the Eu(2+) 4f(sup 6)5d(sup 1) to 4f(sup 7) transition and range from 550 to 750 nm. ISL stimulation spectra range from 0.8 micron to 1.7 micron and are thought to indicate the Sm(2+) ion transition from 4f(sup 6) to 4f(sup 5)5d(sup 1). The maximum ISL intensity is obtained from a sample with Eu and Sm concentrations of 500 and 130 ppm, respectively.

  5. Optical Studies of CaS:Eu, Sm Infrared Stimulable Phosphors

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Tamura, Yasuaki; Shibukawa, Atsushi

    1993-07-01

    The photoluminescence (PL) and infrared stimulated luminescence (ISL) spectra of CaS:Eu,Sm infrared stimulable phosphors (ISPs) are studied. In addition, the concentration dependence of ISL intensity is examined. Sm3+- and Eu2+-related structures are found in both the PL excitation and emission spectra. Two types of Sm3+ are found, one of which exhibits strong emission at around 650 nm and the other, weak emission compared to the other emissions at around 565 nm and 605 nm. These are assigned to an asymmetric and a symmetric site, respectively. ISL excitation spectra coincide with the Eu2+ 4f7 to 4f65d1 and 4f66s1 transitions and range from 220 to 650 nm. ISL emission spectra coincide with the Eu2+ 4f65d1 to 4f7 transition and range from 550 to 750 nm. ISL stimulation spectra range from 0.8 μm to 1.7 μm and are thought to indicate the Sm2+ ion transition from 4f6 to 4f55d1. The maximum ISL intensity is obtained from a sample with Eu and Sm concentrations of 500 and 130 ppm, respectively.

  6. The role of luminal Ca2+ in the generation of Ca2+ waves in rat ventricular myocytes

    PubMed Central

    Lukyanenko, Valeriy; Subramanian, Saisunder; Györke, Inna; Wiesner, Theodore F; Györke, Sandor

    1999-01-01

    We used confocal Ca2+ imaging and fluo-3 to investigate the transition of localized Ca2+ releases induced by focal caffeine stimulation into propagating Ca2+ waves in isolated rat ventricular myocytes. Self-sustaining Ca2+ waves could be initiated when the cellular Ca2+ load was increased by elevating the extracellular [Ca2+] ([Ca2+]o) and they could also be initiated at normal Ca2+ loads when the sensitivity of the release sites to cytosolic Ca2+ was enhanced by low doses of caffeine. When we prevented the accumulation of extra Ca2+ in the luminal compartment of the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) with thapsigargin, focal caffeine pulses failed to trigger self-sustaining Ca2+ waves on elevation of [Ca2+]o. Inhibition of SR Ca2+ uptake by thapsigargin in cells already preloaded with Ca2+ above normal levels did not prevent local Ca2+ elevations from triggering propagating waves. Moreover, wave velocity increased by 20 %. Tetracaine (0·75 mM) caused transient complete inhibition of both local and propagating Ca2+ signals, followed by full recovery of the responses due to increased SR Ca2+ accumulation. Computer simulations using a numerical model with spatially distinct Ca2+ release sites suggested that increased amounts of releasable Ca2+ might not be sufficient to generate self-sustaining Ca2+ waves under conditions of Ca2+ overload unless the threshold of release site Ca2+ activation was set at relatively low levels (< 1·5 μM). We conclude that the potentiation of SR Ca2+ release channels by luminal Ca2+ is an important factor in Ca2+ wave generation. Wave propagation does not require the translocation of Ca2+ from the spreading wave front into the SR. Instead, it relies on luminal Ca2+ sensitizing Ca2+ release channels to cytosolic Ca2+. PMID:10373699

  7. [In vitro release of [5Met]- and [5Leu]-enkephalins from the rat brain crude synaptosomal (P2) fraction: Ca2+-dependency of K+-stimulation and effects of various drugs].

    PubMed

    Koida, M; Takahashi, M; Takenaga, K

    1983-01-01

    The rat brain P2 fraction was suspended in Krebs Ringer bicarbonate buffer containing 20 microM bacitracin and incubated at 37 degrees C for 10 min under an atmosphere of 95% O2-5% CO2. Incubation was terminated by centrifugation at 4 degrees C and 10,000 X g for 10 min. The supernatant was designated as the S1 fraction, and from the pellet, the S2 to S4 fractions were collected by repeated suspension, incubation, and centrifugation. The radioimmunoassays of each S fraction revealed the spontaneous release of [5Met]- and [5Leu]-enkephalins at the ratio of 2 to 1. The peptide contents gradually decreased from S1 to S4, but the release tended to become constant in S3 and S4. Thus, the effects of some ions and drugs on the release were compared at the stage of obtaining the S3 fraction. The release of both peptides were significantly stimulated in 50 mM KCl buffer, and the stimulatory effect appears to be dependent on Ca2+ concentration. Veratrine and A23187 were also effective stimulants of the release. On the other hand, neither spontaneous nor K+-stimulated release of enkephalins was affected by morphine (1 microM), naloxone (1 microM), kyotorphin (1 or 10 microM), and Li+ (50 mM). Similar results were obtained with the release of 3H-noradrenaline taken up in vitro by the P2 fraction. The usability of the P2 fraction as an in vitro model for the study of stimulus-coupled release of enkephalins was discussed with some limitations found herein.

  8. Agonist-stimulated cobalt uptake provides selective visualization of neurons expressing AMPA- or kainate-type glutamate receptors in the retina.

    PubMed

    Pourcho, Roberta G; Qin, Pu; Goebel, Dennis J; Fyk-Kolodziej, Bozena

    2002-12-16

    Fast-acting excitatory neurotransmission in the retina is mediated primarily by glutamate, acting at alpha-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazole propionic acid (AMPA) -selective and kainate-selective receptors. To localize these sites of action, cat retinas were stimulated with either AMPA or kainate and processed for histochemical visualization of cobalt uptake through calcium-permeable channels. Treatment with both agonists resulted in staining of A- and B-type horizontal cells and several types of OFF cone bipolar cells; there was no evidence for staining of ON cone bipolar cells or rod bipolar cells. The subpopulations of OFF cone bipolar cells differed in their responses with two distinct types that stained heavily with cobalt after exposure to AMPA and three different types that were preferentially labeled after exposure to kainate. Although many amacrine and ganglion cells appeared to respond to both agonists, AII amacrine cells were stained after stimulation by AMPA but not by kainate. The OFF cone bipolar cells that exhibit AMPA-stimulated cobalt uptake were found to have a high level of correspondence with cells that show immunocytochemical staining for the AMPA-selective glutamate receptor subunits GluR1 and GluR2/3. Similarly, the cone bipolar cells exhibiting kainate-stimulated cobalt uptake resemble those that are immunoreactive for the kainate subunit GluR5. The results indicate that, whereas many retinal neurons express both AMPA and kainate receptors, AII amacrine cells and subpopulations of OFF cone bipolar cells are limited to the expression of either AMPA or kainate receptors. This differential expression may contribute to the unique character of transmission by these cell types. Copyright 2002 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

  9. Differential routes of Ca2+ influx in Swiss 3T3 fibroblasts in response to receptor stimulation.

    PubMed Central

    Miyakawa, T; Kojima, M; Ui, M

    1998-01-01

    Ca2+ influx into cells in response to stimulation of various receptors was studied with Swiss 3T3 fibroblasts. The mechanisms involved were found to be so diverse that they were classified into four groups, Type I to IV. Type-I influx occurred, via pertussis toxin-susceptible G-proteins, immediately after internal Ca2+ mobilization by bradykinin, thrombin, endothelin, vasopressin or angiotensin II. Type-II influx induced by bombesin differed from Type I in its insusceptibility to pertussis toxin treatment. Ca2+ influx induced by prostaglandin E1, referred to as Type-III influx, was unique in that phospholipase C was apparently not activated without extracellular Ca2+, strongly suggesting that the Ca2+ influx preceded and was responsible for InsP3 generation and internal Ca2+ mobilization. More Ca2+ entered the cells more slowly via the Type-IV route opened by platelet-derived and other growth factors. These types of Ca2+ influx could be differentiated by their different susceptibilities to protein kinase C maximally activated by 1 h of exposure of cells to PMA, which inhibited phospholipase Cbeta coupled to receptors involved in Type-I and -II influx but did not inhibit growth-factor-receptor-coupled phospholipase Cgamma. Type-I and -II Ca2+ influxes, together with store-operated influx induced by thapsigargin, were not directly inhibited by exposure of cells to PMA, but Type-III and -IV influxes were completely inhibited. In addition, stimulation of receptors involved in Type-I and -IV Ca2+ influx, but not Type-II and -III influx, led to phospholipase A2 activation in the presence of extracellular Ca2+. Inhibition of Type-I and -IV Ca2+ influxes by their respective inhibitors, diltiazem and nifedipine, resulted in abolition of phospholipase A2 activation induced by the respective receptor agonists, in agreement with the notion that Ca2+ influx via these routes is responsible for receptor-mediated phospholipase A2 activation. PMID:9405282

  10. Differential routes of Ca2+ influx in Swiss 3T3 fibroblasts in response to receptor stimulation.

    PubMed

    Miyakawa, T; Kojima, M; Ui, M

    1998-01-01

    Ca2+ influx into cells in response to stimulation of various receptors was studied with Swiss 3T3 fibroblasts. The mechanisms involved were found to be so diverse that they were classified into four groups, Type I to IV. Type-I influx occurred, via pertussis toxin-susceptible G-proteins, immediately after internal Ca2+ mobilization by bradykinin, thrombin, endothelin, vasopressin or angiotensin II. Type-II influx induced by bombesin differed from Type I in its insusceptibility to pertussis toxin treatment. Ca2+ influx induced by prostaglandin E1, referred to as Type-III influx, was unique in that phospholipase C was apparently not activated without extracellular Ca2+, strongly suggesting that the Ca2+ influx preceded and was responsible for InsP3 generation and internal Ca2+ mobilization. More Ca2+ entered the cells more slowly via the Type-IV route opened by platelet-derived and other growth factors. These types of Ca2+ influx could be differentiated by their different susceptibilities to protein kinase C maximally activated by 1 h of exposure of cells to PMA, which inhibited phospholipase Cbeta coupled to receptors involved in Type-I and -II influx but did not inhibit growth-factor-receptor-coupled phospholipase Cgamma. Type-I and -II Ca2+ influxes, together with store-operated influx induced by thapsigargin, were not directly inhibited by exposure of cells to PMA, but Type-III and -IV influxes were completely inhibited. In addition, stimulation of receptors involved in Type-I and -IV Ca2+ influx, but not Type-II and -III influx, led to phospholipase A2 activation in the presence of extracellular Ca2+. Inhibition of Type-I and -IV Ca2+ influxes by their respective inhibitors, diltiazem and nifedipine, resulted in abolition of phospholipase A2 activation induced by the respective receptor agonists, in agreement with the notion that Ca2+ influx via these routes is responsible for receptor-mediated phospholipase A2 activation.

  11. Abscisic acid triggers whole-plant and fruit-specific mechanisms to increase fruit calcium uptake and prevent blossom end rot development in tomato fruit.

    PubMed

    de Freitas, Sergio Tonetto; Shackel, Kenneth A; Mitcham, Elizabeth J

    2011-05-01

    Calcium (Ca) uptake into fruit and leaves is dependent on xylemic water movement, and hence presumably driven by transpiration and growth. High leaf transpiration is thought to restrict Ca movement to low-transpiring tomato fruit, which may increase fruit susceptibility to the Ca-deficiency disorder, blossom end rot (BER). The objective of this study was to analyse the effect of reduced leaf transpiration in abscisic acid (ABA)-treated plants on fruit and leaf Ca uptake and BER development. Tomato cultivars Ace 55 (Vf) and AB2 were grown in a greenhouse environment under Ca-deficit conditions and plants were treated weekly after pollination with water (control) or 500 mg l(-1) ABA. BER incidence was completely prevented in the ABA-treated plants and reached values of 30-45% in the water-treated controls. ABA-treated plants had higher stem water potential, lower leaf stomatal conductance, and lower whole-plant water loss than water-treated plants. ABA treatment increased total tissue and apoplastic water-soluble Ca concentrations in the fruit, and decreased Ca concentrations in leaves. In ABA-treated plants, fruit had a higher number of Safranin-O-stained xylem vessels at early stages of growth and development. ABA treatment reduced the phloem/xylem ratio of fruit sap uptake. The results indicate that ABA prevents BER development by increasing fruit Ca uptake, possibly by a combination of whole-plant and fruit-specific mechanisms.

  12. Evidence of saturable uptake mechanisms at maternal and fetal sides of the perfused human placenta by rapid paired-tracer dilution: studies with calcium and choline.

    PubMed

    Sweiry, J H; Page, K R; Dacke, C G; Abramovich, D R; Yudilevich, D L

    1986-12-01

    Rapid uptake and efflux of 45Ca2+ and [3H]choline at the maternal and fetal interfaces of the syncytiotrophoblast in the dually-perfused human placenta was investigated by application of the single circulation paired-tracer dilution method (Yudilevich, Eaton, Short & Leichtweiss 1979). Cotyledons were perfused with Krebs-bicarbonate containing dextran (30 g/l; MW = 60-70,000) at 20 and 6 ml/min on maternal and fetal sides, respectively. The paired-tracer (test substrate and extracellular marker) technique consisted of an intra-arterial injection of a tracer bolus, followed by venous sampling over 5-6 min. There was a rapid (sec) uptake of 45Ca2+, followed by backflux (efflux into the ipsilateral circulation) which, over 5-6 min, was 59-100% on the fetal side. It was more variable but generally lower on the maternal interface. At 0.1 mM calcium, 45Ca2+ maximal uptake (Umax) was about 53% on the fetal side but on the maternal side it was variable and averaged 17%. At 2.4 mM calcium fetal side Umax was reduced to 40%. However, on the maternal side the effect was not consistent. Unidirectional influx (nmol/min per g) appeared to be not different on the two sides of the placenta. For [3H]choline (in choline-free perfusates) Umax was about 50% and 30% on fetal and maternal sides, respectively; tracer backflux was variable on the maternal side and averaged 50% on the fetal side. [3H]Choline uptake was highly inhibited by either 1.0 mM choline or the specific competitive inhibitor, hemicholinium-3 (0.1 mM). Specific transplacental transfer of 45Ca2+ (i.e. in excess of the extracellular marker) was not significant in either direction. For [3H]choline there was an apparent small excess (about 4%) preferential towards the fetal circulation. These findings in the human placenta are similar to those demonstrated previously in the guinea-pig placenta which suggested the existence of specific transport systems for choline and calcium on both sides of the syncytiotrophoblast.

  13. Uptake of CO2, SO2, HNO3 and HCl on calcite (CaCO3) at 300 K: mechanism and the role of adsorbed water.

    PubMed

    Santschi, Ch; Rossi, M J

    2006-06-01

    All experimental observations of the uptake of the four title compounds on calcite are consistent with the presence of a reactive bifunctional surface intermediate Ca(OH)(HCO3) that has been proposed in the literature. The uptake of CO2 and SO2 occurs on specific adsorption sites of crystalline CaCO3(s) rather than by dissolution in adsorbed water, H2O(ads). SO2 primarily interacts with the bicarbonate moiety whereas CO2, HNO3 and HCl all react first with the hydroxyl group of the surface intermediate. Subsequently, the latter two react with the bicarbonate group to presumably form Ca(NO3)2 and CaCl2.2H2O. The effective equilibrium constant of the interaction of CO2 with calcite in the presence of H2O(ads) is kappa = deltaCO2/(H2O(ads)[CO2]) = 1.62 x 10(3) bar(-1), where CO2 is the quantity of CO2 adsorbed on CaCO3. The reaction mechanism involves a weakly bound precursor species that is reversibly adsorbed and undergoes rate-controlling concurrent reactions with both functionalities of the surface intermediate. The initial uptake coefficients gamma0 on calcite powder depend on the abundance of H2O(ads) under the present experimental conditions and are on the order of 10(-4) for CO2 and 0.1 for SO2, HNO3 and HCl, with gamma(ss) being significantly smaller than gamma0 for HNO3 and HCl, thus indicating partial saturation of the uptake. At 33% relative humidity and 300 K there are 3.5 layers of H2O adsorbed on calcite that reduce to a fraction of a monolayer of weakly and strongly bound water upon pumping and/or heating.

  14. Involvement of the putative Ca²⁺-permeable mechanosensitive channels, NtMCA1 and NtMCA2, in Ca²⁺ uptake, Ca²⁺-dependent cell proliferation and mechanical stress-induced gene expression in tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum) BY-2 cells.

    PubMed

    Kurusu, Takamitsu; Yamanaka, Takuya; Nakano, Masataka; Takiguchi, Akiko; Ogasawara, Yoko; Hayashi, Teruyuki; Iida, Kazuko; Hanamata, Shigeru; Shinozaki, Kazuo; Iida, Hidetoshi; Kuchitsu, Kazuyuki

    2012-07-01

    To gain insight into the cellular functions of the mid1-complementing activity (MCA) family proteins, encoding putative Ca²⁺-permeable mechanosensitive channels, we isolated two MCA homologs of tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum) BY-2 cells, named NtMCA1 and NtMCA2. NtMCA1 and NtMCA2 partially complemented the lethality and Ca²⁺ uptake defects of yeast mutants lacking mechanosensitive Ca²⁺ channel components. Furthermore, in yeast cells overexpressing NtMCA1 and NtMCA2, the hypo-osmotic shock-induced Ca²⁺ influx was enhanced. Overexpression of NtMCA1 or NtMCA2 in BY-2 cells enhanced Ca²⁺ uptake, and significantly alleviated growth inhibition under Ca²⁺ limitation. NtMCA1-overexpressing BY-2 cells showed higher sensitivity to hypo-osmotic shock than control cells, and induced the expression of the touch-inducible gene, NtERF4. We found that both NtMCA1-GFP and NtMCA2-GFP were localized at the plasma membrane and its interface with the cell wall, Hechtian strands, and at the cell plate and perinuclear vesicles of dividing cells. NtMCA2 transcript levels fluctuated during the cell cycle and were highest at the G1 phase. These results suggest that NtMCA1 and NtMCA2 play roles in Ca²⁺-dependent cell proliferation and mechanical stress-induced gene expression in BY-2 cells, by regulating the Ca²⁺ influx through the plasma membrane.

  15. Differential Stimulation of the Na+/H+ Exchanger Determines Chloroquine Uptake in Plasmodium falciparum

    PubMed Central

    Wünsch, Stefan; Sanchez, Cecilia P.; Gekle, Michael; Große-Wortmann, Lars; Wiesner, Jochen; Lanzer, Michael

    1998-01-01

    Here we describe the identification and characterization of a physiological marker that is associated with the chloroquine-resistant (CQR) phenotype in the human malarial parasite Plasmodium falciparum. Single cell in vivo pH measurements revealed that CQR parasites consistently have an elevated cytoplasmic pH compared to that of chloroquine-sensitive (CQS) parasites because of a constitutively activated Na+/H+ exchanger (NHE). Together, biochemical and physiological data suggest that chloroquine activates the plasmodial NHE of CQS parasites, resulting in a transitory phase of rapid sodium/hydrogen ion exchange during which chloroquine is taken up by this protein. The constitutively stimulated NHE of CQR parasites are capable of little or no further activation by chloroquine. We propose that the inability of chloroquine to stimulate its own uptake through the constitutively activated NHE of resistant parasites constitutes a minimal and necessary event in the generation of the chloroquine-resistant phenotype. PMID:9442109

  16. Voluntary running depreciates the requirement of Ca2+-stimulated cAMP signaling in synaptic potentiation and memory formation

    PubMed Central

    Zheng, Fei; Zhang, Ming; Ding, Qi; Sethna, Ferzin; Yan, Lily; Moon, Changjong; Yang, Miyoung

    2016-01-01

    Mental health and cognitive functions are influenced by both genetic and environmental factors. Although having active lifestyle with physical exercise improves learning and memory, how it interacts with the specific key molecular regulators of synaptic plasticity is largely unknown. Here, we examined the effects of voluntary running on long-term potentiation (LTP) and memory formation in mice lacking type 1 adenylyl cyclase (AC1), a neurospecific synaptic enzyme that contributes to Ca2+-stimulated cAMP production. Following 1 mo of voluntary running-wheel exercise, the impaired LTP and object recognition memory in AC1 knockout (KO) mice were significantly attenuated. Running up-regulated exon II mRNA level of BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor), though it failed to increase exon I and IV mRNAs in the hippocampus of AC1 KO mice. Intrahippocampal infusion of recombinant BDNF was sufficient to rescue LTP and object recognition memory defects in AC1 KO mice. Therefore, voluntary running and exogenous BDNF application overcome the defective Ca2+-stimulated cAMP signaling. Our results also demonstrate that alteration in Ca2+-stimulated cAMP can affect the molecular outcome of physical exercise. PMID:27421897

  17. Electrical stimulation of human lower extremities enhances energy consumption, carbohydrate oxidation, and whole body glucose uptake.

    PubMed

    Hamada, Taku; Hayashi, Tatsuya; Kimura, Tetsuya; Nakao, Kazuwa; Moritani, Toshio

    2004-03-01

    Our laboratory has recently demonstrated that low-frequency electrical stimulation (ES) of quadriceps muscles alone significantly enhanced glucose disposal rate (GDR) during euglycemic clamp (Hamada T, Sasaki H, Hayashi T, Moritani T, and Nakao K. J Appl Physiol 94: 2107-2112, 2003). The present study is further follow-up to examine the acute metabolic effects of ES to lower extremities compared with voluntary cycle exercise (VE) at identical intensity. In eight male subjects lying in the supine position, both lower leg (tibialis anterior and triceps surae) and thigh (quadriceps and hamstrings) muscles were sequentially stimulated to cocontract in an isometric manner at 20 Hz with a 1-s on-off duty cycle for 20 min. Despite small elevation of oxygen uptake by 7.3 +/- 0.3 ml x kg(-1) x min(-1) during ES, the blood lactate concentration was significantly increased by 3.2 +/- 0.3 mmol/l in initial period (5 min) after the onset of the ES (P < 0.01), whereas VE showed no such changes at identical oxygen uptake (7.5 +/- 0.3 ml x kg(-1) x min(-1)). ES also induced enhanced whole body carbohydrate oxidation as shown by the significantly higher respiratory gas exchange ratio than with VE (P < 0.01). These data indicated increased anaerobic glycolysis by ES. Furthermore, whole body glucose uptake determined by GDR during euglycemic clamp demonstrated a significant increase during and after the cessation of ES for at least 90 min (P < 0.01). This post-ES effect was significantly greater than that of the post-VE period (P < 0.01). These results suggest that ES can substantially enhance energy consumption, carbohydrate oxidation, and whole body glucose uptake at low intensity of exercise. Percutaneous ES may become a therapeutic utility to enhance glucose metabolism in humans.

  18. Oxytocin stimulates hippocampal neurogenesis via oxytocin receptor expressed in CA3 pyramidal neurons.

    PubMed

    Lin, Yu-Ting; Chen, Chien-Chung; Huang, Chiung-Chun; Nishimori, Katsuhiko; Hsu, Kuei-Sen

    2017-09-14

    In addition to the regulation of social and emotional behaviors, the hypothalamic neuropeptide oxytocin has been shown to stimulate neurogenesis in adult dentate gyrus; however, the mechanisms underlying the action of oxytocin are still unclear. Taking advantage of the conditional knockout mouse model, we show here that endogenous oxytocin signaling functions in a non-cell autonomous manner to regulate survival and maturation of newly generated dentate granule cells in adult mouse hippocampus via oxytocin receptors expressed in CA3 pyramidal neurons. Through bidirectional chemogenetic manipulations, we also uncover a significant role for CA3 pyramidal neuron activity in regulating adult neurogenesis in the dentate gyrus. Retrograde neuronal tracing combined with immunocytochemistry revealed that the oxytocin neurons in the paraventricular nucleus project directly to the CA3 region of the hippocampus. Our findings reveal a critical role for oxytocin signaling in adult neurogenesis.Oxytocin (OXT) has been implicated in adult neurogenesis. Here the authors show that CA3 pyramidal cells in the adult mouse hippocampus express OXT receptors and receive inputs from hypothalamic OXT neurons; activation of OXT signaling in CA3 pyramidal cells promotes the survival and maturation of newborn neurons in the dentate gyrus in a non-cell autonomous manner.

  19. Action of a NO donor on the excitation–contraction pathway activated by noradrenaline in rat superior mesenteric artery

    PubMed Central

    Ghisdal, Philippe; Gomez, Jean-Pierre; Morel, Nicole

    2000-01-01

    The aim of the present study was to investigate the actions of NO donors in ratsuperior mesenteric artery stimulated with noradrenaline by studying their effects on isometric tension, membrane potential (Vm), cytosolic calcium concentration ([Ca2+]cyt) and accumulation of inositol phosphates. In unstimulated arteries, SNAP (S-nitroso-N-acetylpenicillamine, 10 μm) hyperpolarised Vm by 3.0 ± 0.5 mV (n = 9). In KCl-stimulated arteries, SNAP relaxed contraction without changing Vm and [Ca2+]cyt. In noradrenaline-stimulated arteries, SNAP relaxed tension, repolarised Vm and decreased [Ca2+]cyt with the same potency. Responses to SNAP were unaffected by the following K+ channel blockers: glibenclamide, 4-aminopyridine, apamin and charybdotoxin, and by increasing the KCl concentration to 25 mM. In SNAP-pretreated arteries, the production of inositol phosphates and the contraction stimulated by noradrenaline were inhibited similarly. The guanylate cyclase inhibitor ODQ abolished the increase in cyclic GMP content evoked by SNAP and inhibited the effects of SNAP on contraction, Vm and accumulation of inositol phosphates in noradrenaline-stimulated artery. These results indicate that, in rat superior mesenteric arteries activated by noradrenaline, inhibition of production of inositol phosphates is responsible for the effects of the NO donor SNAP on membrane potential, [Ca2+]cyt and contraction through a cyclic GMP-dependent mechanism. PMID:10618154

  20. Uptake of divalent ions (Mn+2 and Ca+2) by heat-set whey protein gels.

    PubMed

    Oztop, Mecit H; McCarthy, Kathryn L; McCarthy, Michael J; Rosenberg, Moshe

    2012-02-01

    Divalent salts are used commonly for gelation of polymer molecules. Calcium, Ca(+2), is one of the most common divalent ions that is used in whey protein gels. Manganese, Mn(+2), is also divalent, but paramagnetic, enhancing relaxation decay rates in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and can be used as a probe to understand the behavior of Ca(+2) in whey protein gels. The objective of this study was to investigate the diffusion of Ca(+2) and Mn(+2) ions in heat-set whey protein gels by using MRI and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) relaxometry. Whey protein gels were immersed in solutions containing MnCl(2) and CaCl(2) at neutral pH. Images obtained with gels immersed in MnCl(2) solution revealed a relaxation sink region in the gel's surface and the thickness of the region increased with time. These "no signal" regions in the MR images were attributed to uptake of Mn(+2) by the gel. Results obtained with CaCl(2) solution indicated that since Ca(+2) did not have the paramagnetic effect, the regions where Ca(+2) diffused into the gel exhibited a slight decrease in signal intensity. The relaxation spectrums exhibited 3 populations of protons, for gels immersed in MnCl(2) solution, and 2 populations for gels in CaCl(2) solution. No significant change in T(2) distributions was observed for the gels immersed in CaCl(2) solution. The results demonstrated that MRI and NMR relaxometry can be used to understand the diffusion of ions into the whey protein gel, which is useful for designing gels of different physical properties for controlled release applications. Design of food systems for delivery of bioactive compounds requires knowledge of diffusion rates and structure. Utilizing magnetic resonance imaging the diffusion rates of ions can be measured. Relaxation spectra could yield information concerning molecular interactions. © 2012 Institute of Food Technologists®

  1. Divalent metal (Ca, Cd, Mn, Zn) uptake and interactions in the aquatic insect Hydropsyche sparna.

    PubMed

    Poteat, Monica D; Díaz-Jaramillo, Mauricio; Buchwalter, David B

    2012-05-01

    Despite their ecological importance and prevalent use as ecological indicators, the trace element physiology of aquatic insects remains poorly studied. Understanding divalent metal transport processes at the water-insect interface is important because these metals may be essential (e.g. Ca), essential and potentially toxic (e.g. Zn) or non-essential and toxic (e.g. Cd). We measured accumulation kinetics of Zn and Cd across dissolved concentrations ranging 4 orders of magnitude and examined interactions with Ca and Mn in the caddisfly Hydropsyche sparna. Here, we provide evidence for at least two transport systems for both Zn and Cd, the first of which operates at concentrations below 0.8 μmol l(-1) (and is fully saturable for Zn). We observed no signs of saturation of a second lower affinity transport system at concentrations up to 8.9 μmol l(-1) Cd and 15.3 μmol l(-1) Zn. In competition studies at 0.6 μmol l(-1) Zn and Cd, the presence of Cd slowed Zn accumulation by 35% while Cd was unaffected by Zn. At extreme concentrations (listed above), Cd accumulation was unaffected by the presence of Zn whereas Zn accumulation rates were reduced by 58%. Increasing Ca from 31.1 μmol l(-1) to 1.35 mmol l(-1) resulted in only modest decreases in Cd and Zn uptake. Mn decreased adsorption of Cd and Zn to the integument but not internalization. The L-type Ca(2+) channel blockers verapamil and nifedipine and the plasma membrane Ca(2+)-ATPase inhibitor carboxyeosin had no influence on Ca, Cd or Zn accumulation rates, while Ruthenium Red, a Ca(2+)-ATPase inhibitor, significantly decreased the accumulation of all three in a concentration-dependent manner.

  2. Spatio-temporal propagation of Ca2+ signals by cyclic ADP-ribose in 3T3 cells stimulated via purinergic P2Y receptors

    PubMed Central

    Bruzzone, Santina; Kunerth, Svenja; Zocchi, Elena; De Flora, Antonio; Guse, Andreas H.

    2003-01-01

    The role of cyclic ADP-ribose in the amplification of subcellular and global Ca2+ signaling upon stimulation of P2Y purinergic receptors was studied in 3T3 fibroblasts. Either (1) 3T3 fibroblasts (CD38− cells), (2) 3T3 fibroblasts preloaded by incubation with extracellular cyclic ADP-ribose (cADPR), (3) 3T3 fibroblasts microinjected with ryanodine, or (4) 3T3 fibroblasts transfected to express the ADP-ribosyl cyclase CD38 (CD38+ cells) were used. Both preincubation with cADPR and CD38 expression resulted in comparable intracellular amounts of cyclic ADP-ribose (42.3 ± 5.2 and 50.5 ± 8.0 pmol/mg protein). P2Y receptor stimulation of CD38− cells yielded a small increase of intracellular Ca2+ concentration and a much higher Ca2+ signal in CD38-transfected cells, in cADPR-preloaded cells, or in cells microinjected with ryanodine. Confocal Ca2+ imaging revealed that stimulation of ryanodine receptors by cADPR or ryanodine amplified localized pacemaker Ca2+ signals with properties resembling Ca2+ quarks and triggered the propagation of such localized signals from the plasma membrane toward the internal environment, thereby initiating a global Ca2+ wave. PMID:14623867

  3. Kinetic properties of the sodium-calcium exchanger in rat brain synaptosomes.

    PubMed Central

    Fontana, G; Rogowski, R S; Blaustein, M P

    1995-01-01

    1. The kinetic properties of the internal Na+ (Na+i)- dependent 45Ca2+ influx and external Na+ (Na+o)-dependent 45Ca2+ efflux were determined in isolated rat brain nerve terminals (synaptosomes) under conditions which the concentrations of internal Na+ ([Na+]i), external Na+ ([Na+]o), external Ca2+ (Ca2+]o), and external K+ ([K+]o) were varied. Both fluxes are manifestations of Na(+)-Ca2+ exchange. 2. Ca2+ uptake was augmented by raising [Na+]i and / or lowering [Na+]o. The increase in Ca2+ uptake induced by removing external Na+ was, in most instances, quantitatively equal to the Na+i-dependent Ca2+ uptake. 3. The Na+i-dependent Ca2+ uptake (measured at 1 s) was activated with an apparent half-maximal [Ca2+]o (KCa(o)) of about 0.23 mM. External Na+ inhibited the uptake in a non- competitive manner: increasing [Na+]o from 4.7 to 96 mM reduced the maximal Na+(i)-dependent Ca2+ uptake but did not affect KCa(o). 4. The inhibition of Ca2+ uptake by Na+o was proportional to ([Na+]o)2, and had a Hill coefficient (nH) of approximately 2.0. The mean apparent half-maximal [Na+]o for inhibition (KI(Na)) was about 60mM, and was independent of [Ca2+]o between 0.1 and 1.2mM; this, too, is indicative of non-competitive inhibition. 5. Low concentrations of alkali metal ions (M+) in the medium, including Na+, stimulated the Na+i-dependent uptake. The external Na+ and K+ concentrations required for apparent half-maximal activation (KM(Na) and KM(K), respectively) were 0.12 and 0.10mM. Thus, the relationship between Ca2+ uptake and [Na+]o was biphasic: uptake was stimulated by [Na+]o < or = 10 mM, and inhibited by higher [Na+]o. 6. The calculated maximal Na+i-dependent Ca2+ uptake (Jmax) was about 1530 pmol (mg protein) -1s-1 at 30 degrees C saturating [Ca2+]o and external M+ concentration ([M+]o), and with negligible inhibition by external Na+. 7. Internal Na+ activated the Ca2+ uptake with an apparent half-maximal concentration (KNa(i)) of about 20 mM and a Hill coefficient, n

  4. Blocking the L-type Ca2+ channel (Cav 1.2) is the key mechanism for the vascular relaxing effect of Pterodon spp. and its isolated diterpene methyl-6α-acetoxy-7β-hydroxyvouacapan-17β-oate.

    PubMed

    de Fátima Reis, Carolina; de Andrade, Daniela Medeiros Lobo; Junior Neves, Bruno; de Almeida Ribeiro Oliveira, Leandra; Pinho, José Felippe; da Silva, Leidiane Pinha; Dos Santos Cruz, Jader; Bara, Maria Teresa Freitas; Andrade, Carolina Horta; Rocha, Matheus Lavorenti

    2015-10-01

    Pterodon spp. Vogel (Fabaceae), popularly known as "sucupira", has ethnopharmacological application which is described as having antispasmodic and relaxant effects. Hence, it was hypothesized that sucupira oil-resin (SOR) could induce smooth muscle relaxation. So, this study investigated the mechanisms involved in the vasorelaxant effect of SOR and its isolated diterpene (methyl-6α-acetoxy-7β-hydroxyvouacapan-17β-oate). Vascular reactivity experiments were performed using rat aortic rings (n=5-8) with (E+) or without endothelium (E-) in an isolated bath organ. The SOR (0-56 μg/mL) relaxed phenylephrine (E+: 86.7±7.1%; E-: 92.3±4.7%) and KCl contracted rings (E-: 97.1±2.8%). In the same way, diterpene (0-48 μg/mL) also relaxed phenylephrine (E+: 94.5±3.6%; E-: 92.2±3.4%) and KCl contracted rings (E-: 99.7±0.2%). The pre-incubation of arterial rings with cyclopiazonic acid (reticular Ca2+-ATPase inhibitor), tetraethylammonium (K+ channels blocker) or MDL-12,330A (adenylyl cyclesinhibitor) did not modify either SOR- or diterpeneinduced vasorelaxation. However, ODQ (guanylyl cyclase inhibitor) impaired only diterpene-induced vasorelaxation. SOR and diterpene significantly reduced CaCl2-induced contraction stimulated by Bay K8644 (1 μM), phenylephrine (0.1 μM) or KCl solution (40 mM). Computational molecular docking studies demonstrated that the vasodilator effect of diterpene relies on blocking the Cav 1.2 channel, and patch clamp results showed that diterpene substantially decreased the ionic current through Cav 1.2 in freshly dissociated vascular smooth muscle cells. These findings suggest that SOR and its isolated diterpene induce endothelium-independent vascular relaxation by blocking the L-type Ca2+ channel (Cav 1.2). Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  5. Spontaneous Ca2+ spiking in a vascular smooth muscle cell line is independent of the release of intracellular Ca2+ stores.

    PubMed

    Byron, K L; Taylor, C W

    1993-04-05

    Monolayers of fura-2-loaded A7r5 cells, a cell line derived from rat embryonic aorta, generated spontaneous Ca2+ spikes that were synchronized within the cell population. These Ca2+ spikes were abolished by removal of extracellular Ca2+ or addition of nimodipine (50 nM), and their frequency was increased by depolarization with high K+ or by treatment with BAYK 8644 (1 microM), indicating that Ca2+ entry through L-type Ca2+ channels is required for Ca2+ spiking. Several lines of evidence indicate that mobilization of intracellular Ca2+ stores is not necessary for this Ca2+ spiking. 1) Ryanodine (0.1-50 microM) neither stimulated Ca2+ mobilization nor affected Ca2+ spiking; 2) the complex effects of caffeine were mimicked by theophylline, 8-bromo-cyclic adenosine 3':5'-monophosphate (8-bromo-cAMP), and forskolin, suggesting that the caffeine effects may be mediated by cAMP and not by ryanodine receptors; 3) prolonged incubation with thapsigargin (50 nM), which depletes intracellular Ca2+ stores, did not affect the frequency of Ca2+ spiking; 4) Ba2+ or Sr2+ could substitute for Ca2+ in the spike-generating mechanism even when intracellular stores were depleted of Ca2+. Under conditions where the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) contained Ca2+, Ba2+ spikes did not cause Ca2+ mobilization. The mechanisms involved in generating spontaneous Ca2+ spiking in A7r5 cells are therefore likely to reside in the sarcolemma and to operate independently of SR Ca2+ uptake and release.

  6. α-MSH Stimulates Glucose Uptake in Mouse Muscle and Phosphorylates Rab-GTPase-Activating Protein TBC1D1 Independently of AMPK

    PubMed Central

    Enriori, Pablo J.; Jensen, Thomas Elbenhardt; Garcia-Rudaz, Cecilia; Litwak, Sara A.; Raun, Kirsten; Wojtaszewski, Jørgen; Wulff, Birgitte Schjellerup; Cowley, Michael A.

    2016-01-01

    The melanocortin system includes five G-protein coupled receptors (family A) defined as MC1R-MC5R, which are stimulated by endogenous agonists derived from proopiomelanocortin (POMC). The melanocortin system has been intensely studied for its central actions in body weight and energy expenditure regulation, which are mainly mediated by MC4R. The pituitary gland is the source of various POMC-derived hormones released to the circulation, which raises the possibility that there may be actions of the melanocortins on peripheral energy homeostasis. In this study, we examined the molecular signaling pathway involved in α-MSH-stimulated glucose uptake in differentiated L6 myotubes and mouse muscle explants. In order to examine the involvement of AMPK, we investigate α-MSH stimulation in both wild type and AMPK deficient mice. We found that α-MSH significantly induces phosphorylation of TBC1 domain (TBC1D) family member 1 (S237 and T596), which is independent of upstream PKA and AMPK. We find no evidence to support that α-MSH-stimulated glucose uptake involves TBC1D4 phosphorylation (T642 and S704) or GLUT4 translocation. PMID:27467141

  7. Stimulation of cell division in the rat by NaCl, KCl, MgCl2, and CaCl2, and inhibition of the sodium chloride effect on the glandular stomach by ascorbic acid and beta-carotene.

    PubMed

    Lugli, S M; Lutz, W K

    1999-01-01

    Three questions associated with the stimulation of cell division by chloride salts have been investigated: (i) whether cations other than sodium show a similar effect, (ii) whether vitamins can have a preventive activity, and (iii) whether subchronic treatment with sodium chloride in the diet is also effective. Male Fischer 344 rats were given solutions of the chloride salts of sodium, potassium, magnesium, and calcium by oral gavage. Water was used for control. After 4 h, a 24-h osmotic minipump containing 5-bromo-2'-deoxyuridine was implanted subcutaneously. The forestomach and glandular stomach, as well as liver and bladder were analyzed immunohistochemically 24 h later for the proportion of cells in S phase as an indicator of the rate of replicative DNA synthesis. For both the forestomach and the glandular stomach, potassium was as potent as sodium, and the divalent cations Mg and Ca were even more potent on a molar basis. Supplementation of the diet with ascorbic acid (2 g/kg food) or beta-carotene (12.5 mg/kg food) for 1 week before gavage of the sodium chloride solution resulted in an inhibition of the stimulation of cell division. A putative tumor-chemopreventive activity of the two vitamins might therefore not only rely on their antioxidative properties but may include effects on the cell cycle. A 4-week treatment with a sodium chloride supplement in the diet (2% and 4% supplement) resulted in a significant stimulation of cell division not only in both parts of the stomach and in the bladder (with the 4% supplement) but also in the liver (even with the 2% supplement). Sodium-chloride-stimulated cell turnover therefore is a sustained effect.

  8. Stimulation of ANP secretion by 2-Cl-IB-MECA through A(3) receptor and CaMKII.

    PubMed

    Yuan, Kuichang; Bai, Guang Yi; Park, Woo Hyun; Kim, Sung Zoo; Kim, Suhn Hee

    2008-12-01

    Adenosine is a potent mediator of myocardial protection against hypertrophy via A(1) or A(3) receptors that may be partly related to atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) release. However, little is known about the possible involvement of the A(3) receptor on ANP release. We studied the effects of the A(3) receptor on atrial functions and its modification in hypertrophied atria. A selective A(3) receptor agonist, 2-chloro-N(6)-(3-iodobenzyl) adenosine-5'-N-methyluronamide (2-CI-IB-MECA), was perfused into isolated, beating rat atria with and without receptor modifiers. 2-CI-IB-MECA dose-dependently increased the ANP secretion, which was blocked by the A(3) receptor antagonist, but the increased atrial contractility and decreased cAMP levels induced by 30muM 2-CI-IB-MECA were not affected. The 100muM 2-(1-hexylnyl)-N-methyladenosine (HEMADO) and N(6)-(3-iodobenzyl) adenosine-5'-N-methyluronamide (IB-MECA), A(3) receptor agonist, also stimulated the ANP secretion without positive inotropy. The potency for the stimulation of ANP secretion was 2-CI-IB-MECA>IB-MECA=HEMADO. The inhibition of the ryanodine receptor or calcium/calmodulin-dependent kinase II (CaMKII) attenuated 2-CI-IB-MECA-induced ANP release, positive inotropy, and translocation of extracellular fluid. However, the inhibition of L-type Ca(2+) channels, sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca(2+)-reuptake, phospholipase C or inositol 1,4,5-triphosphate receptors did not affect these parameters. 2-CI-IB-MECA decreased cAMP level, which was blocked only with an inhibitor of CaMKII or adenylyl cyclase. These results suggest that 2-CI-IB-MECA increases the ANP secretion mainly via A(3) receptor activation and positive inotropy by intracellular Ca(2+) regulation via the ryanodine receptor and CaMKII.

  9. Comparison of gaseous oxidized Hg measured by KCl-coated denuders, and nylon and cation exchange membranes.

    PubMed

    Huang, Jiaoyan; Miller, Matthieu B; Weiss-Penzias, Peter; Gustin, Mae Sexauer

    2013-07-02

    The chemical compounds that make up gaseous oxidized mercury (GOM) in the atmosphere, and the reactions responsible for their formation, are not well understood. The limitations and uncertainties associated with the current method applied to measure these compounds, the KCl-coated denuder, are not known due to lack of calibration and testing. This study systematically compared the uptake of specific GOM compounds by KCl-coated denuders with that collected using nylon and cation exchange membranes in the laboratory and field. In addition, a new method for identifying different GOM compounds using thermal desorption is presented. Different GOM compounds (HgCl2, HgBr2, and HgO) were found to have different affinities for the denuder surface and the denuder underestimated each of these compounds. Membranes measured 1.3 to 3.7 times higher GOM than denuders in laboratory and field experiments. Cation exchange membranes had the highest collection efficiency. Thermodesorption profiles for the release of GOM compounds from the nylon membrane were different for HgO versus HgBr2 and HgCl2. Application of the new field method for collection and identification of GOM compounds demonstrated these vary as a function of location and time of year. Understanding the chemistry of GOM across space and time has important implications for those developing policy regarding this environmental contaminant.

  10. Microneedle crystals of cyano-substituted thiophene/phenylene co-oligomer epitaxially grown on KCl surface

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Torii, Kazuki; Dokiya, Shohei; Tanaka, Yosuke; Yoshinaga, Shohei; Yanagi, Hisao

    2017-06-01

    A cyno-substituted thiophene/phenylene co-oligomer (TPCO), 5,5‧-bis(4‧-cyanobiphenyl-4-yl)-2,2‧-bithiophene (BP2T-CN), is vapor-deposited on KCl (001) surface kept at 220 °C by the mask-shadowing method. Transmission electron microscopy and fluorescence microscopy reveal that the deposited BP2T-CN crystallizes in two types of morphologies: microneedles and thin film crystallites. In particular, the predominant microneedles epitaxially grow in four directions in the manner that the BP2T-CN molecules align along the [110]KCl or [-110]KCl. X-ray diffraction patterns indicate that the BP2T-CN molecules in the microneedle lie parallel while those in the thin film crystallite obliquely stand on the KCl surface.

  11. Supercrystallization of KCl from solution irradiated by soft X-rays

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Janavičius, A. J.; Rinkūnas, R.; Purlys, R.

    2016-10-01

    The X-rays influence on KCl crystallization in a saturated water solution has been investigated for the aim of comparing it with previously considered NaCl crystallization. The rate of crystallization has been measured in the drying drop in the solution activated by the irradiation. We have measured the influence of the irradiation time of the solution on the rates of KCl crystallization as well as the beginning of the crystallization processes on drying drops. For a longer irradiation time of the solution early crystallization in the drops occurs. A saturated water solution of KCl was irradiated with the diffractometer DRON-3M (Russian device) and this had a great influence on the two-step processes of crystallization. The ionization of the solution by soft X-rays can produce ions, metastable radicals in water, excited crystals' seeds and vacancies in growing crystals by Auger's effect. The X-rays generate a very fast crystallization in the drying drop.

  12. Safety of the Transcranial Focal Electrical Stimulation via Tripolar Concentric Ring Electrodes for Hippocampal CA3 Subregion Neurons in Rats

    PubMed Central

    2017-01-01

    Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that affects approximately one percent of the world population. Noninvasive electrical brain stimulation via tripolar concentric ring electrodes has been proposed as an alternative/complementary therapy for seizure control. Previous results suggest its efficacy attenuating acute seizures in penicillin, pilocarpine-induced status epilepticus, and pentylenetetrazole-induced rat seizure models and its safety for the rat scalp, cortical integrity, and memory formation. In this study, neuronal counting was used to assess possible tissue damage in rats (n = 36) due to the single dose or five doses (given every 24 hours) of stimulation on hippocampal CA3 subregion neurons 24 hours, one week, and one month after the last stimulation dose. Full factorial analysis of variance showed no statistically significant difference in the number of neurons between control and stimulation-treated animals (p = 0.71). Moreover, it showed no statistically significant differences due to the number of stimulation doses (p = 0.71) nor due to the delay after the last stimulation dose (p = 0.96). Obtained results suggest that stimulation at current parameters (50 mA, 200 μs, 300 Hz, biphasic, charge-balanced pulses for 2 minutes) does not induce neuronal damage in the hippocampal CA3 subregion of the brain. PMID:29065603

  13. Safety of the Transcranial Focal Electrical Stimulation via Tripolar Concentric Ring Electrodes for Hippocampal CA3 Subregion Neurons in Rats.

    PubMed

    Mucio-Ramírez, Samuel; Makeyev, Oleksandr

    2017-01-01

    Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that affects approximately one percent of the world population. Noninvasive electrical brain stimulation via tripolar concentric ring electrodes has been proposed as an alternative/complementary therapy for seizure control. Previous results suggest its efficacy attenuating acute seizures in penicillin, pilocarpine-induced status epilepticus, and pentylenetetrazole-induced rat seizure models and its safety for the rat scalp, cortical integrity, and memory formation. In this study, neuronal counting was used to assess possible tissue damage in rats ( n = 36) due to the single dose or five doses (given every 24 hours) of stimulation on hippocampal CA3 subregion neurons 24 hours, one week, and one month after the last stimulation dose. Full factorial analysis of variance showed no statistically significant difference in the number of neurons between control and stimulation-treated animals ( p  = 0.71). Moreover, it showed no statistically significant differences due to the number of stimulation doses ( p  = 0.71) nor due to the delay after the last stimulation dose ( p  = 0.96). Obtained results suggest that stimulation at current parameters (50 mA, 200  μ s, 300 Hz, biphasic, charge-balanced pulses for 2 minutes) does not induce neuronal damage in the hippocampal CA3 subregion of the brain.

  14. 134Cs uptake by four plant species and Cs-K relations in the soil-plant system as affected by Ca(OH)2 application to an acid soil.

    PubMed

    Massas, I; Skarlou, V; Haidouti, C; Giannakopoulou, F

    2010-03-01

    Three rates of Ca(OH)(2) were applied to an acid soil and the (134)Cs uptake by radish, cucumber, soybean and sunflower plants was studied. The (134)Cs concentration in all plant species was reduced from 1.6-fold in the sunflower seeds to 6-fold in the soybean vegetative parts at the higher Ca(OH)(2) rate. Potassium (K) concentration in plants was also reduced, but less effectively. The significantly decreased (134)Cs-K soil to plant distribution factors (D.F.) clearly suggest a stronger effect of soil liming on (134)Cs than on K plant uptake. This observation was discussed in terms of ionic interactions in the soil matrix and within the plants. The results also indicated that the increased Ca(2+) concentration in the exchange phase and in the soil solution along with the improved root activity, due to the soil liming, enhanced the immobilization of (134)Cs in the soil matrix and consequently lowered the (134)Cs availability for plant uptake. 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  15. Electrical conductivity of low-temperature NaCl-KCl-ZrCl4 melts

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Salyulev, A. B.; Khokhlov, V. A.; Red'kin, A. A.

    2014-08-01

    The dependences of the electrical conductivity of NaCl-KCl-ZrCl4 molten mixtures with a molar ratio NaCl : KCl = 8 : 29 on the temperature (temperature range of 300-540°C) and the ZrCl4 concentration (54.3-75.2 mol %) have been measured for the first time using unique cells.

  16. High Ca2+ load promotes hydrogen peroxide generation via activation of α-glycerophosphate dehydrogenase in brain mitochondria.

    PubMed

    Tretter, Laszlo; Adam-Vizi, Vera

    2012-12-01

    H(2)O(2) generation associated with α-glycerophosphate (α-GP) oxidation was addressed in guinea pig brain mitochondria challenged with high Ca(2+) load (10 μM). Exposure to 10 μM Ca(2+) induced an abrupt 2.5-fold increase in H(2)O(2) release compared to that measured in the presence of a physiological cytosolic Ca(2+) concentration (100 nM) from mitochondria respiring on 5 mM α-GP in the presence of ADP (2 mM). The Ca(2+)-induced stimulation of H(2)O(2) generation was reversible and unaltered by the uniporter blocker Ru 360, indicating that it did not require Ca(2+) uptake into mitochondria. Enhanced H(2)O(2) generation by Ca(2+) was also observed in the absence of ADP when mitochondria exhibited permeability transition pore opening with a decrease in the NAD(P)H level, dissipation of membrane potential, and mitochondrial swelling. Furthermore, mitochondria treated with the pore-forming peptide alamethicin also responded with an elevated H(2)O(2) generation to a challenge with 10 μM Ca(2+). Ca(2+)-induced promotion of H(2)O(2) formation was further enhanced by the complex III inhibitor myxothiazol. With 20 mM α-GP concentration, stimulation of H(2)O(2) formation by Ca(2+) was detected only in the presence, not in the absence, of ADP. It is concluded that α-glycerophosphate dehydrogenase, which is accessible to and could be activated by a rise in the level of cytosolic Ca(2+), makes a major contribution to Ca(2+)-stimulated H(2)O(2) generation. This work highlights a unique high-Ca(2+)-stimulated reactive oxygen species-forming mechanism in association with oxidation of α-GP, which is largely independent of the bioenergetic state and can proceed even in damaged, functionally incompetent mitochondria. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  17. Impact of anthropogenic CO2 on the CaCO3 system in the oceans.

    PubMed

    Feely, Richard A; Sabine, Christopher L; Lee, Kitack; Berelson, Will; Kleypas, Joanie; Fabry, Victoria J; Millero, Frank J

    2004-07-16

    Rising atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) concentrations over the past two centuries have led to greater CO2 uptake by the oceans. This acidification process has changed the saturation state of the oceans with respect to calcium carbonate (CaCO3) particles. Here we estimate the in situ CaCO3 dissolution rates for the global oceans from total alkalinity and chlorofluorocarbon data, and we also discuss the future impacts of anthropogenic CO2 on CaCO3 shell-forming species. CaCO3 dissolution rates, ranging from 0.003 to 1.2 micromoles per kilogram per year, are observed beginning near the aragonite saturation horizon. The total water column CaCO3 dissolution rate for the global oceans is approximately 0.5 +/- 0.2 petagrams of CaCO3-C per year, which is approximately 45 to 65% of the export production of CaCO3.

  18. Ca(2+) homeostasis in the budding yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae: Impact of ER/Golgi Ca(2+) storage.

    PubMed

    D'hooge, Petra; Coun, Catherina; Van Eyck, Vincent; Faes, Liesbeth; Ghillebert, Ruben; Mariën, Lore; Winderickx, Joris; Callewaert, Geert

    2015-08-01

    Yeast has proven to be a powerful tool to elucidate the molecular aspects of several biological processes in higher eukaryotes. As in mammalian cells, yeast intracellular Ca(2+) signalling is crucial for a myriad of biological processes. Yeast cells also bear homologs of the major components of the Ca(2+) signalling toolkit in mammalian cells, including channels, co-transporters and pumps. Using yeast single- and multiple-gene deletion strains of various plasma membrane and organellar Ca(2+) transporters, combined with manipulations to estimate intracellular Ca(2+) storage, we evaluated the contribution of individual transport systems to intracellular Ca(2+) homeostasis. Yeast strains lacking Pmr1 and/or Cod1, two ion pumps implicated in ER/Golgi Ca(2+) homeostasis, displayed a fragmented vacuolar phenotype and showed increased vacuolar Ca(2+) uptake and Ca(2+) influx across the plasma membrane. In the pmr1Δ strain, these effects were insensitive to calcineurin activity, independent of Cch1/Mid1 Ca(2+) channels and Pmc1 but required Vcx1. By contrast, in the cod1Δ strain increased vacuolar Ca(2+) uptake was not affected by Vcx1 deletion but was largely dependent on Pmc1 activity. Our analysis further corroborates the distinct roles of Vcx1 and Pmc1 in vacuolar Ca(2+) uptake and point to the existence of not-yet identified Ca(2+) influx pathways. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  19. Role of calcium in the constriction of isolated cerebral arteries

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Wendling, W.W.

    1987-01-01

    Calcium entry blockers (CEB) have been used in the experimental treatment or prevention of many cerebrovascular disorders including stroke, post-ischemic hypoperfusion after cardiac arrest, cerebral vasospasm after subarachnoid hemorrhage, and migraine headache. However, the mechanism of action of these drugs on the cerebral circulation is poorly understood. This study examined the effects of calcium antagonists, Ca/sup 2 +/-deficient solutions, and vasocostrictors on cerebrovascular tone and /sup 45/Ca fluxes, to determine the role of calcium in cerebral arterial constriction. A Scatchard plot of /sup 45/Ca binding to BMCA showed that Ca/sup 2 +/ was bound at either low or high affinitymore » binding sties. The four vasoconstrictors (potassium, serotonin, PGF/sub 2 ..cap alpha../, or SQ-26,655) each increased low affinity /sup 45/Ca uptake into BMCA. The results demonstrate that: (1) Potassium and serotonin constrict BMCA mainly by promoting Ca/sup 2 +/ influx through CEB-sensitive channels; (2) PGF/sub 2 ..cap alpha../ and SQ-26,655 constrict BMCA in part by promoting Ca/sup 2 +/ influx through CEB-sensitive channels, and in part by releasing Ca/sup 2 +/ from depletable internal stores; (3) The major action of CEB on BMCA is to block vasoconstrictor-induced Ca/sup 2 +/ uptake through both potential-operated (K/sup +/-stimulated) and receptor-operated channels.« less

  20. Application of 17% EDTA Enhances Diffusion of (45)Ca-labeled OH(-) and Ca(2+) in Primary Tooth Root Canal.

    PubMed

    Ximenes, Marcos; Cavalcanti Taguchi, Carolina Mayumi; Triches, Thaisa Cezaria; Sartori, Neimar; Pereira Dias, Luis Alberto; de Araujo, Elaine Bortoleti; Cardoso, Mariane

    2016-01-01

    Proper cleaning of the root canal is key to the success of endodontic treatment as it allows more effective diffusion of medication throughout the dentinal tubules. The aim of this in vitro study was to investigate the efficacy of 17% ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) in enhancing diffusion of hydroxyl (OH(-)) and calcium ions (Ca(2+)) throughout the root canal in primary teeth. The canals of 25 primary tooth roots were cleaned with endodontic files and 1% sodium hypochlorite. Three groups (G) were then established: GI, in which final irrigation was performed with 1% sodium hypochlorite; GII, in which 17% EDTA was used; and GIII, in which no irrigation was performed. The roots canals in GI and GII were filled with a calcium hydroxide-based paste labeled with the radioisotope calcium-45. Diffusion of OH(-) was detected with pH strips and Ca(2+) analyzed by measuring radioactivity in counts per min. Group II differed statistically from the other groups in diffusion of OH(-) at 24 hr (p<0.05), but no significant difference among groups was found at the day 7 evaluation; GII also differed statistically from the other groups in diffusion of Ca(2+) at 24 hr (p<0.05). These results suggest that application of 17% EDTA in primary tooth enhances diffusion of OH(-) and Ca(2+).

  1. Withaferin A-stimulated Ca2+ entry, ceramide formation and suicidal death of erythrocytes.

    PubMed

    Jilani, Kashif; Lupescu, Adrian; Zbidah, Mohanad; Shaik, Nazneen; Lang, Florian

    2013-02-01

    Withaferin A, a triterpenoid component from Withania somnifera, counteracts malignancy, an effect attributed to stimulation of apoptosis. Withaferin A is partially effective through induction of oxidative stress, altered gene expression and mitochondrial depolarization. Erythrocytes lack mitochondria and nuclei but may enter apoptosis-like eryptosis, a suicidal cell death characterized by cell shrinkage and cell membrane scrambling with phosphatidylserine exposure at the cell surface. Triggers of eryptosis include increase of cytosolic Ca(2+)-activity [Ca(2+)](i) following activation of oxidant-sensitive Ca(2+)-permeable cation channels, ceramide formation and/or ATP-depletion. The present study explored, whether withaferin A triggers eryptosis. To this end, [Ca(2+)](i) was estimated from Fluo3-fluorescence, cell volume from forward scatter, phosphatidylserine exposure from annexin-V-binding, hemolysis from hemoglobin release, oxidative stress from DCFDA-fluorescence and ceramide abundance utilizing antibodies. A 48 h exposure to withaferin A significantly decreased forward scatter (at ≥ 10 μM withaferin concentration) and increased [Ca(2+)](i) (≥ 5 μM), ROS-formation (≥ 10 μM) ceramide-formation ( ≥ 10 μM) as well as annexin-V-binding ( ≥ 5 μM). Withaferin A treatment was followed by slight but significant increase of hemolysis. Extracellular Ca(2+) removal, amiloride, and the antioxidant N-acetyl-l-cysteine significantly blunted withaferin A-triggered annexin-V-binding. The present observations reveal that withaferin A triggers suicidal erythrocyte death despite the absence of gene expression and key elements of apoptosis such as mitochondria. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  2. Sucrose uptake by pinocytosis in Amoeba proteus and the influence of external calcium

    PubMed Central

    1979-01-01

    The relationship between Ca++ and pinocytosis was investigated in Amoeba proteus. Pinocytosis was induced with 0.01% alcian blue, a large molecular weight dye which binds irreversibly to the cell surface. The time-course and intensity of pinocytosis was monitored by following the uptake of [3H]SUCROSE. When the cells are exposed to 0.01% alcian blue, there is an immediate uptake of sucrose. The cells take up integral of 10% of their initial volume during the time-course of pinocytosis. The duration of pinocytosis in the amoeba is integral of 50 min, with maximum sucrose uptake occurring 15 min after the induction of pinocytosis. The pinocytotic uptake of sucrose is reversibly blocked at 3 degrees C and a decrease in pH increases the uptake of sucrose by pinocytosis. The process of pinocytosis is also dependent upon the concentration of the inducer in the external medium. The association between Ca++ and pinocytosis in A. proteus was investigated initially by determining the effect of the external Ca++ concentration on sucrose uptake induced by alcian blue. In Ca++-free medium, no sucrose uptake is observed in the presence of 0.01% alcian blue. As the Ca++ concentration is increased, up to a maximum of 0.1 mM, pinocytotic sucrose uptake is also increased. Increases in the external Ca++ concentration above 0.1 mM brings about a decrease in sucrose uptake. Further investigations into the association between Ca++ and pinocytosis demonstrated that the inducer of pinocytosis displaces surface calcium in the amoeba. It is suggested that Ca++ is involved in two separate stages in the process of pinocytosis; an initial displacement of surface calcium by the inducer which may increase the permeability of the membrane to solutes and a subsequent Ca++ influx bringing about localized increases in cytoplasmic Ca++ ion activity. PMID:512629

  3. Facilitation of cytosolic calcium wave propagation by local calcium uptake into the sarcoplasmic reticulum in cardiac myocytes.

    PubMed

    Maxwell, Joshua T; Blatter, Lothar A

    2012-12-01

    The widely accepted paradigm for cytosolic Ca(2+) wave propagation postulates a 'fire-diffuse-fire' mechanism where local Ca(2+)-induced Ca(2+) release (CICR) from the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) via ryanodine receptor (RyR) Ca(2+) release channels diffuses towards and activates neighbouring release sites, resulting in a propagating Ca(2+) wave. A recent challenge to this paradigm proposed the requirement for an intra-SR 'sensitization' Ca(2+) wave that precedes the cytosolic Ca(2+) wave and primes RyRs from the luminal side to CICR. Here, we tested this hypothesis experimentally with direct simultaneous measurements of cytosolic ([Ca(2+)](i); rhod-2) and intra-SR ([Ca(2+)](SR); fluo-5N) calcium signals during wave propagation in rabbit ventricular myocytes, using high resolution fluorescence confocal imaging. The increase in [Ca(2+)](i) at the wave front preceded depletion of the SR at each point along the calcium wave front, while during this latency period a transient increase of [Ca(2+)](SR) was observed. This transient elevation of [Ca(2+)](SR) could be identified at individual release junctions and depended on the activity of the sarco-endoplasmic reticulum Ca(2+)-ATPase (SERCA). Increased SERCA activity (β-adrenergic stimulation with 1 μM isoproterenol (isoprenaline)) decreased the latency period and increased the amplitude of the transient elevation of [Ca(2+)](SR), whereas inhibition of SERCA (3 μM cyclopiazonic acid) had the opposite effect. In conclusion, the data provide experimental evidence that local Ca(2+) uptake by SERCA into the SR facilitates the propagation of cytosolic Ca(2+) waves via luminal sensitization of the RyR, and supports a novel paradigm of a 'fire-diffuse-uptake-fire' mechanism for Ca(2+) wave propagation in cardiac myocytes.

  4. Facilitation of cytosolic calcium wave propagation by local calcium uptake into the sarcoplasmic reticulum in cardiac myocytes

    PubMed Central

    Maxwell, Joshua T; Blatter, Lothar A

    2012-01-01

    The widely accepted paradigm for cytosolic Ca2+ wave propagation postulates a ‘fire-diffuse-fire’ mechanism where local Ca2+-induced Ca2+ release (CICR) from the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) via ryanodine receptor (RyR) Ca2+ release channels diffuses towards and activates neighbouring release sites, resulting in a propagating Ca2+ wave. A recent challenge to this paradigm proposed the requirement for an intra-SR ‘sensitization’ Ca2+ wave that precedes the cytosolic Ca2+ wave and primes RyRs from the luminal side to CICR. Here, we tested this hypothesis experimentally with direct simultaneous measurements of cytosolic ([Ca2+]i; rhod-2) and intra-SR ([Ca2+]SR; fluo-5N) calcium signals during wave propagation in rabbit ventricular myocytes, using high resolution fluorescence confocal imaging. The increase in [Ca2+]i at the wave front preceded depletion of the SR at each point along the calcium wave front, while during this latency period a transient increase of [Ca2+]SR was observed. This transient elevation of [Ca2+]SR could be identified at individual release junctions and depended on the activity of the sarco-endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPase (SERCA). Increased SERCA activity (β-adrenergic stimulation with 1 μm isoproterenol (isoprenaline)) decreased the latency period and increased the amplitude of the transient elevation of [Ca2+]SR, whereas inhibition of SERCA (3 μm cyclopiazonic acid) had the opposite effect. In conclusion, the data provide experimental evidence that local Ca2+ uptake by SERCA into the SR facilitates the propagation of cytosolic Ca2+ waves via luminal sensitization of the RyR, and supports a novel paradigm of a ‘fire-diffuse-uptake-fire’ mechanism for Ca2+ wave propagation in cardiac myocytes. PMID:22988145

  5. Capsaicin stimulates the non-store-operated Ca{sup 2+} entry but inhibits the store-operated Ca{sup 2+} entry in neutrophils

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Wang, J.-P.; Tseng, C.-S.; Sun, S.-P.

    2005-12-01

    Rat neutrophils express the mRNA encoding for transient receptor potential (TRP) V1. However, capsaicin-stimulated [Ca{sup 2+}]{sub i} elevation occurred only at high concentrations ({>=}100 {mu}M). This response was substantially decreased in a Ca{sup 2+}-free medium. Vanilloids displayed similar patterns of Ca{sup 2+} response with the rank order of potency as follows: scutigeral>resiniferatoxin>capsazepine>capsaicin=olvanil>isovelleral. Arachidonyl dopamine (AAD), an endogenous ligand for TRPV1, failed to desensitize the subsequent capsaicin challenge. Capsaicin-induced Ca{sup 2+} response was not affected by 8-bromo-cyclic ADP-ribose (8-Br-cADPR), the ryanodine receptor blocker, but was slightly attenuated by 1-[6-[17{beta}-3-methoxyestra-1,3,5(10)-trien-17-yl]amino]hexyl]-1H-pyrrole-2,= 5-dione (U-73122), the inhibitor of phospholipase C-coupled processes, 1-[{beta}-[3-(4-methoxyphenyl)propoxy]-4-methoxyphenethyl]-1H-imidazole (SKF-96365), the blockermore » of receptor-gated and store-operated Ca{sup 2+} (SOC) channels, 2-aminoethyldiphenyl borate (2-APB), the blocker of D-myo-inositol 1,4,5-trisphospahte (IP{sub 3}) receptor and Ca{sup 2+} influx, and by ruthenium red, a blocker of TRPV channels, and enhanced by the Ca{sup 2+} channels blocker, cis-N-(2-phenylcyclopentyl)azacyclotridec-1-en-2-amine (MDL-12330A) and Na{sup +}-deprivation. In addition, capsaicin had no effect on the plasma membrane Ca{sup 2+}-ATPase activity or the production of nitric oxide (NO) and reactive oxygen intermediates (ROI) or on the total thiols content. Capsaicin ({>=}100 {mu}M) inhibited the cyclopiazonic acid (CPA)-induced store-operated Ca{sup 2+} entry (SOCE). In the absence of external Ca{sup 2+}, the robust Ca{sup 2+} entry after subsequent addition of Ca{sup 2+} was decreased by capsaicin in CPA-activated cells. Capsaicin alone increased the actin cytoskeleton, and also increased the actin filament content in cell activation with CPA. These results indicate that capsaicin

  6. K-Cl cotransport function and its potential contribution to cardiovascular disease.

    PubMed

    Adragna, Norma C; Lauf, Peter K

    2007-12-01

    K-Cl cotransport is the coupled electroneutral movement of K and Cl ions carried out by at least four protein isoforms, KCC1-4. These transporters belong to the SLC12A family of coupled cotransporters and, due to their multiple functions, play an important role in the maintenance of cellular homeostasis. Significant information exists on the overall function of these transporters, but less is known about the role of the specific isoforms. Most functional studies were done on K-Cl cotransport fluxes without knowing the molecular details, and only recently attention has been paid to the isoforms and their individual contribution to the fluxes. This review summarizes briefly and updates the information on the overall functions of this transporter, and offers some ideas on its potential contribution to the pathophysiological basis of cardiovascular disease. By virtue of its properties and the cellular ionic distribution, K-Cl cotransport participates in volume regulation of the nucleated and some enucleated cells studied thus far. One of the hallmarks in cardiovascular disease is the inability of the organism to maintain water and electrolyte balance in effectors and/or target tissues. Oxidative stress is another compounding factor in cardiovascular disease and of great significance in our modern life styles. Several functions of the transporter are modulated by oxidative stress, which in turn may cause the transporter to operate in either "overdrive" with the purpose to counteract homeostatic changes, or not to respond at all, again setting the stage for pathological changes leading to cardiovascular disease. Intracellular Mg, a second messenger, acts as an inhibitor of K-Cl cotransport and plays a crucial role in regulating the activity of protein kinases and phosphatases, which, in turn, regulate a myriad of cellular functions. Although the role of Mg in cardiovascular disease has been dealt with for several decades, this chapter is evolving nowadays at a faster

  7. [CaCO3 stimulates alpha-ketoglutarate accumulation during pyruvate fermentation by Torulopsis glabrata].

    PubMed

    Liu, Li-Ming; Li, Yin; Du, Guo-Cheng; Chen, Jian

    2003-11-01

    A large amount of alpha-ketoglutarate (alpha-KG) (6.8 g/L) was accumulated in flask culture when CaCO3 was used as a buffering agent in the production of pyruvate by multi-vitamin auxotrophic yeast Torulopsis glabrata CCTCC M202019. In a 5 L jar-fermentor, less alpha-KG (1.3 g/L) was produced when NaOH was used to adjust the pH, while more alpha-KG (11.5 g/L) detected when CaCO3 was used as the buffer. In the latter case, the molar carbon ratio of pyruvate to alpha-KG (C(PYR)/ CalphaKG) was similar to that obtained in flask culture, suggesting the accumulation of alpha-ketoglutarate was related to the addition of CaCO3. Furthermore, it was found that: (1) delaying the addition time of CaCO3 decreased the a-ketoglutarate formation but increased C(PYR)/ C(alphaKG); and (2) under vitamin limitation conditions increasing the concentration of CaCO3 led to an increased a-KG accumulation at the expenses of pyruvate. To study which ions in CaCO3 was responsible for the accumulation of alpha-KG, the effects of different pH buffers on the a-KG accumulation were studied. The level of alpha-KG was found to correlate with the levels of both Ca2+ and CO3(2-), with Ca2+ played a dominant role and CO3(2-) played a minor role. To find out which pathway was responsible for the accumulation of alpha-KG, the effects of biotin and thiamine on alpha-KG accumulation was investigated. The increase in biotin concentration led to an increase in alpha-KG accumulation and a decrease in C(PYR)/ C(alpha-KG), while the levels of alpha-KG and C(PYR)/C(alphaKG) were not affected by thiamine concentration. The activity of pyruvate carboxylase was increased as much as 40% when the medium was supplemented with Ca2+ . On the other hand, the activity of the pyruvate dehydrogenase complex was unaffected by the presence of Ca2+. To conclude, the higher level of a-KG was caused by higher activity of pyruvate carboxylase stimulated by Ca2+, with CO3(2-) served as the substrate of the reaction.

  8. Phase relations in the system NaCl-KCl-H2O: IV. Differential thermal analysis of the sylvite liquidus in the KCl-H2O binary, the liquidus in the NaCl-KCl-H2O ternary, and the solidus in the NaCl-KCl binary to 2 kb pressure, and a summary of experimental data for thermodynamic-PTX analysis of solid-liquid equilibria at elevated P-T conditions

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Chou, I.-Ming; Sterner, S.M.; Pitzer, Kenneth S.

    1992-01-01

    The sylvite liquidus in the binary system KCl-H2O and the liquidus in the ternary system NaCl-KCl-H2O were determined by using isobaric differential thermal analysis (DTA) cooling scans at pressures up to 2 kbars. Sylvite solubilities along the three-phase curve in the binary system KCl-H2O were obtained by the intersection of sylvite-liquidus isopleths with the three-phase curve in a P-T plot. These solubility data can be represented by the equation Wt.% KCl (??0.2) = 12.19 + 0.1557T - 5.4071 ?? 10-5 T2, where 400 ??? T ??? 770??C. These data are consistent with previous experimental observations. The solidus in the binary system NaCl-KCl was determined by using isobaric DTA heating scans at pressures up to 2 kbars. Using these liquidus and solidus data and other published information, a thermodynamic-PTX analysis of solid-liquid equilibria at high pressures and temperatures for the ternary system has been performed and is presented in an accompanying paper (Part V of this series). However, all experimental liquidus, solidus, and solvus data used in this analysis are summarized in this report (Part IV) and they are compared with the calculated values based on the analysis. ?? 1992.

  9. Effect of 1-chloro-2,4-dinitrobenzene on K+ transport in normal and sickle human red blood cells.

    PubMed

    Muzyamba, M C; Gibson, J S

    2003-03-15

    1-Chloro-2,4-dinitrobenzene (CDNB), which causes oxidative stress through depletion of reduced glutathione (GSH), increases the passive K+ permeability of red cells. In this paper, we investigated the effects of CDNB (1 mM) on the activities of the K+-Cl- cotransporter (KCC; measured as Cl--dependent K+ influx) and the Gardos channel (taken as clotrimazole-sensitive K+ influx, 5 microM) in human red cells, using 86Rb+ as a K+ congener. 45Ca2+ was used to study passive Ca2+ entry and active Ca2+ efflux via the plasma membrane Ca2+ pump. Both the Gardos channel and KCC were stimulated in both normal and sickle red cells. In sickle cells, stimulation of KCC was similar in oxygenated and deoxygenated cells; that of the Gardos channel was greater in deoxygenated cells. In normal red cells, stimulation of both pathways was greater in oxygenated cells (by 4 +/- 1-fold; all means +/- S.E.M., n = 3). The effects on the Gardos channel were dependent on extracellular Ca2+ and were associated with inhibition of the plasma membrane Ca2+ pump (by 29 +/- 3 %, P < 0.01) and increased Ca2+ sensitivity of the channel (EC50 for [Ca2+]i reduced from 260 +/- 26 to 175 +/- 15 nM; P < 0.05). Cell volume, pHi, ATP levels and passive Ca2+ entry were not affected by CDNB. The effects on KCC were inhibited (93 +/- 6 %) by prior treatment with the protein phosphatase inhibitor calyculin A (100 nM) and were not additive with stimulation by N-ethylmaleimide (1 mM), regardless of the order of addition. These findings are therefore consistent with inhibition of a regulatory protein kinase, although stimulation of the conjugate protein phosphatase(s) may also occur. KCC stimulation was also Ca2+ dependent. These findings are important for understanding how GSH depletion alters membrane permeability and how to protect against red cell dehydration.

  10. Performance of KCl:Eu2+ storage phosphor dosimeters for low dose measurements

    PubMed Central

    Li, H. Harold; Hansel, Rachael; Knutson, Nels; Yang, Deshan

    2013-01-01

    Recent research has demonstrated that europium doped potassium chloride (KCl:Eu2+) storage phosphor material has the potential to become the physical foundation of a novel and reusable dosimetry system using either film-like devices or devices similar to thermoluminescent dosimeter (TLD) chips. The purposes of this work are to quantify the performance of KCl:Eu2+ prototype dosimeters for low dose measurements and to demonstrate how it can be incorporated into clinical application for in vivo peripheral dose measurements. Pellet-style KCl:Eu2+ dosimeters, 6 mm in diameter, and 1 mm thick, were fabricated in-house for this study. The dosimeters were read using a laboratory photostimulated luminescence detection system. KCl:Eu2+ prototype storage phosphor dosimeter was capable of measuring a dose-to-water as low as 0.01 cGy from a 6 MV photon beam with a signal-to-noise ratio greater than 6. A pre-readout thermal annealing procedure enabled the dosimeter to be read within an hour post irradiation. After receiving large accumulated doses (~10 kGy), the dosimeters retained linear response in the low dose region with only a 20 percent loss of sensitivity comparing to a fresh sample (zero Gy history). The energy-dependence encountered during low dose peripheral measurements could be accounted for via a single point outside-field calibration per each beam quality. With further development the KCl:Eu2+− based dosimeter could become a versatile and durable dosimetry tool with large dynamic range (sub-cGy to 100 Gy). PMID:23735856

  11. Exploring associations between taste perception, oral anatomy and polymorphisms in the carbonic anhydrase (gustin) gene CA6.

    PubMed

    Feeney, Emma L; Hayes, John E

    2014-04-10

    Recent reports suggest that polymorphisms in the carbonic anhydrase gene CA6 (also known as gustin) may explain additional variation in the bitterness of 6-n-propylthiouracil beyond that explained by variation in the bitter receptor gene TAS2R38. CA6 (gustin) has been implicated in taste bud function and salivary buffer capacity. In the present study we examined associations between polymorphisms in the CA6 gene with salt and bitter taste perception, and oral anatomy. 243 subjects (146 female) aged 18-45 rated the intensity of five concentrations of 6-n-propylthiouracil and NaCl on a generalized Labeled Magnitude Scale (gLMS) in duplicate and one concentration of potassium chloride (KCl). Using salivary DNA, we examined 12 SNPs within CA6 in relation to taste intensity and number of fungiform papillae. We observed no difference in bitter taste perception from 6-n-propylthiouracil (PROP) or from potassium chloride for any of the SNPs examined. Perceived saltiness of NaCl on the other hand was significantly associated with a number of CA6 polymorphisms, and particularly rs3737665. Nonetheless, FP density did not vary between alleles of rs3737665, nor with any of the other CA6 SNPs. Also, we fail to find any evidence that CA6 effects on taste perception are due to differences in fungiform papilla number. Additional work is needed to confirm whether variations within the CA6 gene may be responsible for differences in salt taste perception. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  12. Possible mechanisms of stimulatory action of papaverine on calcium-uptake by rat uterine microsomal fraction.

    PubMed

    Koike, K; Takayanagi, I

    1981-10-01

    Effects of papaverine and cyclic AMP on Ca-uptake by the microsomal fraction from rat uterus were studied. Papaverine (3 x 10(-5) M) potentiated Ca-uptake by the microsomal fraction in the presence of potassium oxalate. However, cyclic AMP and MIX (3-isobutyl-1-methylxanthine; 1 mM), a potent phosphodiesterase inhibitor, did not influence Ca-uptake by the microsomal fraction in the presence of potassium oxalate. Cyclic AMP in concentrations of 10(-8) to 10(-4) M did not influence Ca-uptake by the microsomal fraction in the presence of potassium oxalate. In the absence of potassium oxalate, papaverine and Aspaminol (1,1,-diphenyl-3-piperidinobutanol hydrochloride), a nonspecific smooth muscle relaxant, inhibited Ca-uptake by the microsomal fraction and cyclic AMP had no influence on this uptake. These results suggest that papaverine potentiated Ca-uptake by membranes such as sarcoplasmic reticulum, in the presence of potassium oxalate and inhibited Ca-uptake by the plasma membrane-derived vesicles in the absence of potassium oxalate. These results suggest that relaxation of smooth muscle by papaverine is related to a cyclic AMP-independent mechanism as well as to a mechanism mediated via cyclic AMP.

  13. Vibrational imaging of glucose uptake activity in live cells and tissues by stimulated Raman scattering microscopy (Conference Presentation)

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hu, Fanghao; Chen, Zhixing; Zhang, Luyuan; Shen, Yihui; Wei, Lu; Min, Wei

    2016-03-01

    Glucose is consumed as an energy source by virtually all living organisms, from bacteria to humans. Its uptake activity closely reflects the cellular metabolic status in various pathophysiological transformations, such as diabetes and cancer. Extensive efforts such as positron emission tomography, magnetic resonance imaging and fluorescence microscopy have been made to specifically image glucose uptake activity but all with technical limitations. Here, we report a new platform to visualize glucose uptake activity in live cells and tissues with subcellular resolution and minimal perturbation. A novel glucose analogue with a small alkyne tag (carbon-carbon triple bond) is developed to mimic natural glucose for cellular uptake, which can be imaged with high sensitivity and specificity by targeting the strong and characteristic alkyne vibration on stimulated Raman scattering (SRS) microscope to generate a quantitative three dimensional concentration map. Cancer cells with differing metabolic characteristics can be distinguished. Heterogeneous uptake patterns are observed in tumor xenograft tissues, neuronal culture and mouse brain tissues with clear cell-cell variations. Therefore, by offering the distinct advantage of optical resolution but without the undesirable influence of bulky fluorophores, our method of coupling SRS with alkyne labeled glucose will be an attractive tool to study energy demands of living systems at the single cell level.

  14. NCLX Protein, but Not LETM1, Mediates Mitochondrial Ca2+ Extrusion, Thereby Limiting Ca2+-induced NAD(P)H Production and Modulating Matrix Redox State*

    PubMed Central

    De Marchi, Umberto; Santo-Domingo, Jaime; Castelbou, Cyril; Sekler, Israel; Wiederkehr, Andreas; Demaurex, Nicolas

    2014-01-01

    Mitochondria capture and subsequently release Ca2+ ions, thereby sensing and shaping cellular Ca2+ signals. The Ca2+ uniporter MCU mediates Ca2+ uptake, whereas NCLX (mitochondrial Na/Ca exchanger) and LETM1 (leucine zipper-EF-hand-containing transmembrane protein 1) were proposed to exchange Ca2+ against Na+ or H+, respectively. Here we study the role of these ion exchangers in mitochondrial Ca2+ extrusion and in Ca2+-metabolic coupling. Both NCLX and LETM1 proteins were expressed in HeLa cells mitochondria. The rate of mitochondrial Ca2+ efflux, measured with a genetically encoded indicator during agonist stimulations, increased with the amplitude of mitochondrial Ca2+ ([Ca2+]mt) elevations. NCLX overexpression enhanced the rates of Ca2+ efflux, whereas increasing LETM1 levels had no impact on Ca2+ extrusion. The fluorescence of the redox-sensitive probe roGFP increased during [Ca2+]mt elevations, indicating a net reduction of the matrix. This redox response was abolished by NCLX overexpression and restored by the Na+/Ca2+ exchanger inhibitor CGP37157. The [Ca2+]mt elevations were associated with increases in the autofluorescence of NAD(P)H, whose amplitude was strongly reduced by NCLX overexpression, an effect reverted by Na+/Ca2+ exchange inhibition. We conclude that NCLX, but not LETM1, mediates Ca2+ extrusion from mitochondria. By controlling the duration of matrix Ca2+ elevations, NCLX contributes to the regulation of NAD(P)H production and to the conversion of Ca2+ signals into redox changes. PMID:24898248

  15. Ser1928 phosphorylation by PKA stimulates the L-type Ca2+ channel CaV1.2 and vasoconstriction during acute hyperglycemia and diabetes

    PubMed Central

    Nystoriak, Matthew A.; Nieves-Cintrón, Madeline; Patriarchi, Tommaso; Buonarati, Olivia R.; Prada, Maria Paz; Morotti, Stefano; Grandi, Eleonora; Fernandes, Julia Dos Santos; Forbush, Katherine; Hofmann, Franz; Sasse, Kent C.; Scott, John D.; Ward, Sean M.; Hell, Johannes W.; Navedo, Manuel F.

    2017-01-01

    Hypercontractility of arterial myocytes and enhanced vascular tone during diabetes are, in part, attributed to the effects of increased glucose (hyperglycemia) on L-type CaV1.2 channels. In murine arterial myocytes, kinase-dependent mechanisms mediate the increase in CaV1.2 activity in response to increased extracellular glucose. We identified a subpopulation of the CaV1.2 channel pore-forming subunit (α1C) within nanometer proximity of protein kinase A (PKA) at the sarcolemma of murine and human arterial myocytes. This arrangement depended upon scaffolding of PKA by an A-kinase anchoring protein 150 (AKAP150) in mice. Glucose-mediated increases in CaV1.2 channel activity were associated with PKA activity, leading to α1C phosphorylation at Ser1928. Compared to arteries from low-fat diet (LFD)–fed mice and nondiabetic patients, arteries from high-fat diet (HFD)–fed mice and from diabetic patients had increased Ser1928 phosphorylation and CaV1.2 activity. Arterial myocytes and arteries from mice lacking AKAP150 or expressing mutant AKAP150 unable to bind PKA did not exhibit increased Ser1928 phosphorylation and CaV1.2 current density in response to increased glucose or to HFD. Consistent with a functional role for Ser1928 phosphorylation, arterial myocytes and arteries from knockin mice expressing a CaV1.2 with Ser1928 mutated to alanine (S1928A) lacked glucose-mediated increases in CaV1.2 activity and vasoconstriction. Furthermore, the HFD-induced increases in CaV1.2 current density and myogenic tone were prevented in S1928A knockin mice. These findings reveal an essential role for α1C phosphorylation at Ser1928 in stimulating CaV1.2 channel activity and vasoconstriction by AKAP-targeted PKA upon exposure to increased glucose and in diabetes. PMID:28119464

  16. DA-6034-induced mucin secretion via Ca2+-dependent pathways through P2Y receptor stimulation.

    PubMed

    Lee, Hun; Kim, Eung Kweon; Kim, Ji Yeon; Yang, Yu-Mi; Shin, Dong Min; Kang, Kyung Koo; Kim, Tae-im

    2014-09-11

    We evaluated whether DA-6034 is involved in mucin secretion via P2Y receptor activation and/or intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) change. Also, we investigated the effect of P2Y receptor inhibitors or Ca2+ chelators on the DA-6034-induced mucin secretion and [Ca2+]i increases. Effects of DA-6034 on mucin expression in primary, cultured, conjunctival epithelial cells was studied using RT-PCR, Western blot analysis, and periodic acid-schiff (PAS) staining. To evaluate thin film layer thickness generated by mucin and fluid secretion, cells were incubated in DA-6034 with/without P2Y antagonists or extracellular/intracellular Ca2+ chelators, and were imaged with confocal microscope using Texas Red-dextran dye. In addition, DA-6034-induced Ca2+-dependent Cl- channels opening was evaluated using perforated patch clamp. Fluo-4/AM was used to measure changes in [Ca2+]i induced by DA-6034 in Ca2+-free or Ca2+-containing buffered condition, as well as P2Y antagonists. DA-6034 induced the expression of mucin genes, production of mucin protein, and increase of number of mucin-secreting cells. P2Y antagonists inhibited DA-6034-induced mucin and fluid secretion, which was also affected by extracellular/intracellular Ca2+ chelators. DA-6034 stimulated Cl- channel opening and [Ca2+]i elevation. Further, [Ca2+]i increases induced by DA-6034 were lacking in either P2Y antagonists or Ca2+-free buffered condition, and diminished when endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ was depleted by cyclopiazonic acid in Ca2+-free buffered condition. This study demonstrated that DA-6034 has a potential to induce mucin secretion via Ca2+-dependent pathways through P2Y receptors in multilayer, cultured, human conjunctival epithelial cells. Copyright 2014 The Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc.

  17. Vanadium Uptake by Plants

    PubMed Central

    Welch, Ross M.

    1973-01-01

    The kinetics of vanadium absorption by excised barley (Hordeum vulgare L., cv. Eire) roots were investigated with respect to ionic species of V in solution, time and concentration dependence, Ca sensitivity, and interaction with various anions, cations, and pH levels. The role of metabolism in V absorption was also studied using anaerobic treatment (N2 gas) and chemical inhibitors (NaN3, KCN, or 2,4-dinitrophenol). Approximately one-third of the labeled V initially taken up by excised roots was desorbed to a constant level after 45 min in unlabeled V solutions. The rate of absorption of labeled V from 5 μm NH4VO3 solutions containing 0.5 mm CaSO4 was constant for at least 3 hours. Omission of Ca resulted in a 72% reduction in V uptake when compared to controls with 0.5 mm CaSO4. The rate of uptake of V was highest at pH 4 but dropped to a very low level at pH 10. It was relatively constant between the pH levels of 5 and 8 at which the VO3− ion is the predominant ionic species in solution. The rate of absorption of V was followed as a function of concentrations from 0.5 to 100 μm NH4VO3. It was found to be a linear function of concentration and did not follow saturation kinetics. Absorption experiments carried out with labeled V from either NaVO3 or NH4VO3 sources gave similar results. No anion studied (i.e. HPO42−, HAsO42−, MoO42−, SeO42−, SeO32−, CrO42−, BO33−, No3−, and Cl−) interfered appreciably (i.e. less than 30% inhibition) with the absorption of labeled V. Anaerobic treatment of absorption solution with N2 gas did not inhibit V absorption by excised roots. The results obtained using chemical inhibitors were not consistent. It was concluded that V is not actively absorbed by excised barley roots. PMID:16658421

  18. Effect of the nanoformulation of siRNA-lipid assemblies on their cellular uptake and immune stimulation.

    PubMed

    Kubota, Kohei; Onishi, Kohei; Sawaki, Kazuaki; Li, Tianshu; Mitsuoka, Kaoru; Sato, Takaaki; Takeoka, Shinji

    2017-01-01

    Two lipid-based nanoformulations have been used to date in clinical studies: lipoplexes and lipid nanoparticles (LNPs). In this study, we prepared small interfering RNA (siRNA)-loaded carriers using lipid components of the same composition to form molecular assemblies of differing structures, and evaluated the impact of structure on cellular uptake and immune stimulation. Lipoplexes are electrostatic complexes formed by mixing preformed cationic lipid liposomes with anionic siRNA in an aqueous environment, whereas LNPs are nanoparticles embedding siRNA prepared by mixing an alcoholic lipid solution with an aqueous siRNA solution in one step. Although the physicochemical properties of lipoplexes and LNPs were similar except for small increases in apparent size of lipoplexes and zeta potential of LNPs, siRNA uptake efficiency of LNPs was significantly higher than that of lipoplexes. Furthermore, in the case of LNPs, both siRNA and lipid were effectively incorporated into cells in a co-assembled state; however, in the case of lipoplexes, the amount of siRNA internalized into cells was small in comparison with lipid. siRNAs in lipoplexes were thought to be more likely to localize on the particle surface and thereby undergo dissociation into the medium. Inflammatory cytokine responses also appeared to differ between lipoplexes and LNPs. For tumor necrosis factor-α, release was mainly caused by siRNA. On the other hand, the release of interleukin-1β was mainly due to the cationic nature of particles. LNPs released lower amounts of tumor necrosis factor-α and interleukin-1β than lipoplexes and were thus considered to be better tolerated with respect to cytokine release. In conclusion, siRNA-loaded nanoformulations effect their cellular uptake and immune stimulation in a manner that depends on the structure of the molecular assembly; therefore, nanoformulations should be optimized before extending studies into the in vivo environment.

  19. Effect of the nanoformulation of siRNA-lipid assemblies on their cellular uptake and immune stimulation

    PubMed Central

    Kubota, Kohei; Onishi, Kohei; Sawaki, Kazuaki; Li, Tianshu; Mitsuoka, Kaoru; Sato, Takaaki; Takeoka, Shinji

    2017-01-01

    Two lipid-based nanoformulations have been used to date in clinical studies: lipoplexes and lipid nanoparticles (LNPs). In this study, we prepared small interfering RNA (siRNA)-loaded carriers using lipid components of the same composition to form molecular assemblies of differing structures, and evaluated the impact of structure on cellular uptake and immune stimulation. Lipoplexes are electrostatic complexes formed by mixing preformed cationic lipid liposomes with anionic siRNA in an aqueous environment, whereas LNPs are nanoparticles embedding siRNA prepared by mixing an alcoholic lipid solution with an aqueous siRNA solution in one step. Although the physicochemical properties of lipoplexes and LNPs were similar except for small increases in apparent size of lipoplexes and zeta potential of LNPs, siRNA uptake efficiency of LNPs was significantly higher than that of lipoplexes. Furthermore, in the case of LNPs, both siRNA and lipid were effectively incorporated into cells in a co-assembled state; however, in the case of lipoplexes, the amount of siRNA internalized into cells was small in comparison with lipid. siRNAs in lipoplexes were thought to be more likely to localize on the particle surface and thereby undergo dissociation into the medium. Inflammatory cytokine responses also appeared to differ between lipoplexes and LNPs. For tumor necrosis factor-α, release was mainly caused by siRNA. On the other hand, the release of interleukin-1β was mainly due to the cationic nature of particles. LNPs released lower amounts of tumor necrosis factor-α and interleukin-1β than lipoplexes and were thus considered to be better tolerated with respect to cytokine release. In conclusion, siRNA-loaded nanoformulations effect their cellular uptake and immune stimulation in a manner that depends on the structure of the molecular assembly; therefore, nanoformulations should be optimized before extending studies into the in vivo environment. PMID:28790820

  20. CALCIFICATION IN ECHINODERMS: EFFECTS OF TEMPERATURE AND DIAMOX ON INCORPORATION OF CALCIUM-45 IN VITRO BY REGENERATING SPINES OF STRONGYLOCENTROTUS PURPURATUS.

    PubMed

    Heatfield, Barry M

    1970-08-01

    1. Calcification during regeneration of experimentally fractured spines of the sea urchin, Strongylocentrotus purpuratus (Stimpson), was studied quantitatively under different conditions with calcium-45 as a tracer. 2. Fractured spines rapidly incorporated 45 Ca in vivo or in vitro after a lag period of about two days. The lag period is attributed to wound healing and reorganization of tissue at the site of fracture. 3. Additional experiments were conducted while calcification was in progress by allowing fractured spines to regenerate for four days in vivo followed by incubation in 45 Ca in vivo or in vitro up to 24 hours. In these experiments incorporation of the label was nearly linear with time and no significant difference was observed in the rate of uptake of 45 Ca between regenerating spines incubated in vivo and those from the same urchin incubated simultaneously in vitro. 4. Incorporation of 45 Ca in vitro was directly proportional to temperature between 4.7° and 20° C, at which a maximum occurred. A temperature of 26° C appeared to be lethal and little incorporation of 45 Ca took place. Values of Q 10 and the energy of activation varied inversely with temperature, with overall means of 2.72 and 15,504 calories per mole, respectively, between 4.7° and 20° C. 5. Diamox (acetazolamide) at concentrations from 10 -3 to 10 -6 M, inhibited incorporation of 45 Ca in vitro by 50% to 61%. It is inferred from these results that carbonic anhydrase is involved in calcification of regenerating spines of S. purpuratus.

  1. Oleic acid blocks EGF-induced [Ca2+]i release without altering cellular metabolism in fibroblast EGFR T17.

    PubMed

    Zugaza, J L; Casabiell, X A; Bokser, L; Casanueva, F F

    1995-02-06

    EGFR-T17 cells were pretreated with oleic acid and 5-10 minutes later stimulated with EGF, to study if early ionic signals are instrumental in inducing metabolic cellular response. Oleic acid blocks EGF-induced [Ca2+]i rise and Ca2+ influx without altering 2-deoxyglucose and 2-aminobutiryc acid uptake nor acute, nor chronically. Oleic acid it is shown, in the first minutes favors the entrance of both molecules to modify the physico-chemical membrane state. On the other hand, oleic acid is unable to block protein synthesis. The results suggest that EGF-induced Ins(1,4,5)P3/Ca2+ pathway does not seem to be decisive in the control of cellular metabolic activity.

  2. ( sup 14 C)-Sucrose uptake by guard cell protoplasts of pisum sativum, argenteum mutant

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Rohrig, K.; Raschke, K.

    1991-05-01

    Guard cells rely on import for their supply with reduced carbon. The authors tested by silicone oil centrifugation the ability of guard cell protoplasts to accumulated ({sup 14}C)-sucrose. Uptake rates were corrected after measurement of {sup 14}C-sorbitol and {sup 3}H{sub 2}O spaces. Sucrose uptake followed biphasic kinetics, with a high-affinity component below 1 mM external sucrose (apparent K{sub m} 0.8 mM at 25C) and a low-affinity nonsaturable component above. Uptake depended on pH (optimum at pH 5.0). Variations in the concentrations of external KCl, CCCP, and valinomycin indicated that about one-half of the sucrose uptake rate could be related tomore » an electrochemical gradient across the plasmalemma. Total uptake rates measured at 5 mM external sucrose seem to be sufficient to replenish emptied plastids with starch within a few hours.« less

  3. Stimulation of Cl- uptake and morphological changes in gill mitochondria-rich cells in freshwater tilapia (Oreochromis mossambicus).

    PubMed

    Chang, Il-Chi; Wei, Yuan-Yaw; Chou, Fong-In; Hwang, Pung-Pung

    2003-01-01

    The purpose of the present article is to examine the relationships between ion uptakes and morphologies of gill mitochondria-rich (MR) cells in freshwater tilapia. Tilapia were acclimated to three different artificial freshwaters (high Na [10 mM], high Cl [7.5 mM]; high Na, low Cl [0.02-0.07 mM], and low Na [0.5 mM], low Cl) for 1 wk, and then morphological measurements of gill MR cells were made and ion influxes were determined. The number and the apical size of wavy-convex MR cells positively associated with the level of Cl(-) influx. Conversely, Na(+) influx showed no positive correlation with the morphologies of MR cells. The dominant MR cell type in tilapia gills changed from deep-hole to wavy-convex within 6 h after acute transfer from a high-Cl(-) to a low-Cl(-) environment. Deep-hole MR cells became dominant 24-96 h after acute transfer from a low-Cl(-) to a high-Cl(-) environment. We conclude that wavy-convex MR cells associate with Cl(-) uptake but not Na(+) uptake, and the rapid formation of wavy-convex MR cells reflects the timely stimulation of Cl(-) uptake to recover the homeostasis of internal Cl(-) levels on acute challenge with low environmental Cl(-).

  4. Regulation of myosin IIA and filamentous actin during insulin-stimulated glucose uptake in 3T3-L1 adipocytes

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Stall, Richard; Ramos, Joseph; Kent Fulcher, F.

    Insulin stimulated glucose uptake requires the colocalization of myosin IIA (MyoIIA) and the insulin-responsive glucose transporter 4 (GLUT4) at the plasma membrane for proper GLUT4 fusion. MyoIIA facilitates filamentous actin (F-actin) reorganization in various cell types. In adipocytes F-actin reorganization is required for insulin-stimulated glucose uptake. What is not known is whether MyoIIA interacts with F-actin to regulate insulin-induced GLUT4 fusion at the plasma membrane. To elucidate the relationship between MyoIIA and F-actin, we examined the colocalization of MyoIIA and F-actin at the plasma membrane upon insulin stimulation as well as the regulation of this interaction. Our findings demonstrated thatmore » MyoIIA and F-actin colocalized at the site of GLUT4 fusion with the plasma membrane upon insulin stimulation. Furthermore, inhibition of MyoII with blebbistatin impaired F-actin localization at the plasma membrane. Next we examined the regulatory role of calcium in MyoIIA-F-actin colocalization. Reduced calcium or calmodulin levels decreased colocalization of MyoIIA and F-actin at the plasma membrane. While calcium alone can translocate MyoIIA it did not stimulate F-actin accumulation at the plasma membrane. Taken together, we established that while MyoIIA activity is required for F-actin localization at the plasma membrane, it alone is insufficient to localize F-actin to the plasma membrane. - Highlights: • Insulin induces colocalization of MyoIIA and F-actin at the cortex in adipocytes. • MyoIIA is necessary but not sufficient to localize F-actin at the cell cortex. • MyoIIA-F-actin colocalization is regulated by calcium and calmodulin.« less

  5. Ca2+ -stimulated adenylyl cyclases regulate ERK-dependent activation of MSK1 during fear conditioning.

    PubMed

    Sindreu, Carlos Balet; Scheiner, Zachary S; Storm, Daniel R

    2007-01-04

    The cAMP and ERK/MAP kinase (MAPK) signal transduction pathways are critical for hippocampus-dependent memory, a process that depends on CREB-mediated transcription. However, the extent of crosstalk between these pathways and the downstream CREB kinase activated during memory formation has not been elucidated. Here we report that PKA, MAPK, and MSK1, a CREB kinase, are coactivated in a subset of hippocampal CA1 pyramidal neurons following contextual fear conditioning. Activation of PKA, MAPK, MSK1, and CREB is absolutely dependent on Ca(2+)-stimulated adenylyl cyclase activity. We conclude that adenylyl cyclase activity supports the activation of MAPK, and that MSK1 is the major CREB kinase activated during training for contextual memory.

  6. A steady-state mechanism can account for the properties of inositol 2,4,5-trisphosphate-stimulated Ca2+ release from permeabilized L1210 cells.

    PubMed Central

    Loomis-Husselbee, J W; Dawson, A P

    1993-01-01

    We have investigated the effects of sub-maximal Ins(2,4,5)P3 concentrations on the Ca2+ permeability of the residual undischarged Ca2+ stores in electroporated or digitonin-permeabilized L1210 cells by measuring Ca(2+)-efflux rate after addition of the ATPase inhibitor thapsigargin. Low concentrations of Ins(2,4,5)P3, causing rapid discharge of a small proportion of the releasable Ca2+, result in a substantial stimulation of Ca2+ efflux after thapsigargin addition. This indicates firstly that in the absence of thapsigargin there must have been a substantial, counterbalancing, increase in rate of Ca2+ pumping, and secondly that the increased Ca2+ permeability is more consistent with a steady state than with a quantal model of Ca2+ release. Similar increases in passive Ca2+ permeability are produced by addition of concentrations of ionomycin which produce equivalent changes in Ca2+ loading to those produced by Ins(2,4,5)P3, although the time course and initial rate of Ca2+ release are very much slower. In the presence of a Ca(2+)-buffering system, the time course of Ca2+ release by Ins(2,4,5)P3 becomes superimposable on that of ionomycin, indicating that the initial rapid phase of Ins(2,4,5)P3-stimulated Ca2+ is at least partially due to positive feedback from extravesicular Ca2+. PMID:8382056

  7. DDPH ameliorated oxygen and glucose deprivation-induced injury in rat hippocampal neurons via interrupting Ca2+ overload and glutamate release.

    PubMed

    He, Zhi; Lu, Qing; Xu, Xulin; Huang, Lin; Chen, Jianguo; Guo, Lianjun

    2009-01-28

    Our previous work has demonstrated that DDPH (1-(2, 6-dimethylphenoxy)-2-(3, 4-dimethoxyphenylethylamino) propane hydrochloride), a competitive alpha(1)-adrenoceptor antagonist, could improve cognitive deficits, reduce histopathological damage and facilitate synaptic plasticity in vivo possibly via increasing NR2B (NMDA receptor 2B) expression and antioxidation of DDPH itself. The present study further evaluated effects of DDPH on OGD (Oxygen and glucose deprivation)-induced neuronal damage in rat primary hippocampal cells. The addition of DDPH to the cultured cells 12 h before OGD for 4 h significantly reduced neuronal damage as determined by MTT (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) assay and LDH (lactate dehydrogenase) release experiments. The effects of DDPH on intracellular calcium concentration were explored by Fura-2 based calcium imaging techniques and results showed that DDPH at the dosages of 5 microM and 10 microM suppressed the increase of intracellular calcium ([Ca(2+)](i)) stimulated by 50 mM KCl in Ca(2+)-containing extracellular solutions. However, DDPH couldn't suppress the increase of [Ca(2+)](i) induced by both 50 microM glutamate in Ca(2+)-containing extracellular solutions and 20 microM ATP (Adenosine Triphosphate) in Ca(2+)-free solution. These results indicated that DDPH prevented [Ca(2+)](i) overload in hippocampal neurons by blocking Ca(2+) influx (voltage-dependent calcium channel) but not Ca(2+) mobilization from the intracellular Ca(2+) store in endoplasm reticulum (ER). We also demonstrated that DDPH could decrease glutamate release when hippocampal cells were subjected to OGD. These observations demonstrated that DDPH protected hippocampal neurons against OGD-induced damage by preventing the Ca(2+) influx and decreasing glutamate release.

  8. Calcium-regulation of mitochondrial respiration maintains ATP homeostasis and requires ARALAR/AGC1-malate aspartate shuttle in intact cortical neurons.

    PubMed

    Llorente-Folch, Irene; Rueda, Carlos B; Amigo, Ignacio; del Arco, Araceli; Saheki, Takeyori; Pardo, Beatriz; Satrústegui, Jorgina

    2013-08-28

    Neuronal respiration is controlled by ATP demand and Ca2+ but the roles played by each are unknown, as any Ca2+ signal also impacts on ATP demand. Ca2+ can control mitochondrial function through Ca2+-regulated mitochondrial carriers, the aspartate-glutamate and ATP-Mg/Pi carriers, ARALAR/AGC1 and SCaMC-3, respectively, or in the matrix after Ca2+ transport through the Ca2+ uniporter. We have studied the role of Ca2+ signaling in the regulation of mitochondrial respiration in intact mouse cortical neurons in basal conditions and in response to increased workload caused by increases in [Na+]cyt (veratridine, high-K+ depolarization) and/or [Ca2+]cyt (carbachol). Respiration in nonstimulated neurons on 2.5-5 mm glucose depends on ARALAR-malate aspartate shuttle (MAS), with a 46% drop in aralar KO neurons. All stimulation conditions induced increased OCR (oxygen consumption rate) in the presence of Ca2+, which was prevented by BAPTA-AM loading (to preserve the workload), or in Ca2+-free medium (which also lowers cell workload). SCaMC-3 limits respiration only in response to high workloads and robust Ca2+ signals. In every condition tested Ca2+ activation of ARALAR-MAS was required to fully stimulate coupled respiration by promoting pyruvate entry into mitochondria. In aralar KO neurons, respiration was stimulated by veratridine, but not by KCl or carbachol, indicating that the Ca2+ uniporter pathway played a role in the first, but not in the second condition, even though KCl caused an increase in [Ca2+]mit. The results suggest a requirement for ARALAR-MAS in priming pyruvate entry in mitochondria as a step needed to activate respiration by Ca2+ in response to moderate workloads.

  9. Characteristics of YBa2Cu3O7 high-Tc superconductor with KCl

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Yoon, Ki Hyun; Chang, Sung Sik

    1990-03-01

    The lattice parameters, microstructural change, transition temperature, and electrical properties of the YBa2-xKxCu3O7 high-Tc superconductor in the range from x=0 to x=0.25 have been investigated. The high-Tc orthorhombic phase increases with increasing KCl up to x=0.20, above which it decreases. The lattice parameters decrease with increasing KCl up to x=0.10, and then become nearly uniform. The grain size increases with increasing KCl up to x=0.20 due to its role as sintering agent. The specimens with x=0.2 have transition temperatures of 96 K and high magnetic susceptibility due to the contraction of lattice parameters a and b and the increase of orthorhombic distortion.

  10. GLP-2 potentiates L-type CA2+ channel activity associated with stimulated glucose uptake in hippocampal neurons

    USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

    Glucagon-like peptide-2 (GLP-2) is a neuropeptide secreted from endocrine cells in the gut and neurons in the brain. GLP-2 stimulates intestinal crypt cell proliferation and mucosal blood flow while decreasing gastric emptying and gut motility. However, a GLP-2-mediated signaling network has not bee...

  11. Calcium uptake in the skin of a freshwater teleost.

    PubMed Central

    McCormick, S D; Hasegawa, S; Hirano, T

    1992-01-01

    The skin, particularly the opercular membrane of some teleosts, contains mitochondrion-rich "chloride" cells and has been widely used as a model to study branchial salt-extrusion mechanisms in seawater fish. Skin isolated from the operculum of the freshwater Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) can transport Ca2+ against an ionic and electrical gradient. Adaptation of Nile tilapia to a low-Ca2+ environment increased the capacity of the opercular membrane to transport Ca2+. The density of mitochondrion-rich cells increased in parallel with Ca2+ transport capacity. The results demonstrate net Ca2+ uptake by vertebrate skin and strongly implicate mitochondrion-rich cells as the site of Ca2+ uptake in fresh water. Images PMID:1565659

  12. Stimulatory actions of bioflavenoids on tyrosine uptake into cultured bovine adrenal chromaffin cells

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Morita, K.; Hamano, S.; Oka, M.

    1990-09-28

    The effects of flavenoids on L-({sup 14}C)tyrosine uptake into cultured adrenal chromaffin cells were examined. Flavone markedly stimulated tyrosine uptake into these cells in a manner dependent on its concentration. Apigenin also caused a moderate stimulatory action, but quercetin had no significant effect on the uptake. Flavone also stimulated the uptake of histidine, but did not affect the uptake of serine, lysine, or glutamic acid. These results are considered to propose the possibility that flavonoids may be able to stimulate the precursor uptake into the cells, resulting in an enhancement of the biogenic amine production.

  13. Electroanalytical measurements of binary-analyte mixtures in molten LiCl-KCl eutectic: Uranium(III)- and Magnesium(II)-Chloride

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Rappleye, Devin; Newton, Matthew L.; Zhang, Chao; Simpson, Michael F.

    2017-04-01

    The electrochemical behavior of MgCl2 in molten LiCl-KCl eutectic was investigated to evaluate its suitability as a surrogate for PuCl3 in studies related to the eletrorefining of used nuclear fuel. The reduction of Mg2+ was found to be electrochemically reversible up to 300 mV s-1 at 773 K. The diffusion coefficient for Mg2+ was calculated to be 1.74 and 2.17 × 10-5 cm2 s-1 with and without U3+ present, respectively, at 773 K using cyclic voltammetry (CV). Upon comparison to literature data, the diffusion coefficient of Mg2+ differs by only 8.8% (with U3+ present) from that of Pu3+ and the difference in peak potentials was only 79 mV. Binary-analyte mixtures of UCl3 and MgCl2 in eutectic LiCl-KCl were further investigated using CV, normal pulse voltammetry (NPV), chronoamperometry (CA) and open-circuit potential (OCP) measurements for the purpose of comparing each technique's accuracy in measuring U3+ and Mg2+ concentrations. Of all the techniques tested, NPV resulted in the lowest error which was, on average, 11.4% and 9.81% for U3+ and Mg2+, respectively.

  14. ROS-mediated decline in maximum Ca2+-activated force in rat skeletal muscle fibers following in vitro and in vivo stimulation.

    PubMed

    Dutka, Travis L; Verburg, Esther; Larkins, Noni; Hortemo, Kristin H; Lunde, Per K; Sejersted, Ole M; Lamb, Graham D

    2012-01-01

    We hypothesised that normal skeletal muscle stimulated intensely either in vitro or in situ would exhibit reactive oxygen species (ROS)-mediated contractile apparatus changes common to many pathophysiological conditions. Isolated soleus (SOL) and extensor digitorum longus (EDL) muscles of the rat were bubbled with 95% O(2) and stimulated in vitro at 31°C to give isometric tetani (50 Hz for 0.5 s every 2 s) until maximum force declined to ≤30%. Skinned superficial slow-twitch fibers from the SOL muscles displayed a large reduction (∼41%) in maximum Ca(2+)-activated specific force (F(max)), with Ca(2+)-sensitivity unchanged. Fibers from EDL muscles were less affected. The decrease in F(max) in SOL fibers was evidently due to oxidation effects on cysteine residues because it was reversed if the reducing agent DTT was applied prior to activating the fiber. The GSH:GSSG ratio was ∼3-fold lower in the cytoplasm of superficial fibers from stimulated muscle compared to control, confirming increased oxidant levels. The presence of Tempol and L-NAME during in vitro stimulation prevented reduction in F(max). Skinned fibers from SOL muscles stimulated in vivo at 37°C with intact blood supply also displayed reduction in F(max), though to a much smaller extent (∼12%). Thus, fibers from muscles stimulated even with putatively adequate O(2) supply display a reversible oxidation-induced decrease in F(max) without change in Ca(2+)-sensitivity, consistent with action of peroxynitrite (or possibly superoxide) on cysteine residues of the contractile apparatus. Significantly, the changes closely resemble the contractile deficits observed in a range of pathophysiological conditions. These findings highlight how readily muscle experiences ROS-related deficits, and also point to potential difficulties when defining muscle performance and fatigue.

  15. ROS-Mediated Decline in Maximum Ca2+-Activated Force in Rat Skeletal Muscle Fibers following In Vitro and In Vivo Stimulation

    PubMed Central

    Dutka, Travis L.; Verburg, Esther; Larkins, Noni; Hortemo, Kristin H.; Lunde, Per K.; Sejersted, Ole M.; Lamb, Graham D.

    2012-01-01

    We hypothesised that normal skeletal muscle stimulated intensely either in vitro or in situ would exhibit reactive oxygen species (ROS)-mediated contractile apparatus changes common to many pathophysiological conditions. Isolated soleus (SOL) and extensor digitorum longus (EDL) muscles of the rat were bubbled with 95% O2 and stimulated in vitro at 31°C to give isometric tetani (50 Hz for 0.5 s every 2 s) until maximum force declined to ≤30%. Skinned superficial slow-twitch fibers from the SOL muscles displayed a large reduction (∼41%) in maximum Ca2+-activated specific force (Fmax), with Ca2+-sensitivity unchanged. Fibers from EDL muscles were less affected. The decrease in Fmax in SOL fibers was evidently due to oxidation effects on cysteine residues because it was reversed if the reducing agent DTT was applied prior to activating the fiber. The GSH∶GSSG ratio was ∼3-fold lower in the cytoplasm of superficial fibers from stimulated muscle compared to control, confirming increased oxidant levels. The presence of Tempol and L-NAME during in vitro stimulation prevented reduction in Fmax. Skinned fibers from SOL muscles stimulated in vivo at 37°C with intact blood supply also displayed reduction in Fmax, though to a much smaller extent (∼12%). Thus, fibers from muscles stimulated even with putatively adequate O2 supply display a reversible oxidation-induced decrease in Fmax without change in Ca2+-sensitivity, consistent with action of peroxynitrite (or possibly superoxide) on cysteine residues of the contractile apparatus. Significantly, the changes closely resemble the contractile deficits observed in a range of pathophysiological conditions. These findings highlight how readily muscle experiences ROS-related deficits, and also point to potential difficulties when defining muscle performance and fatigue. PMID:22629297

  16. The Ca(2+) status of the endoplasmic reticulum is altered by induction of calreticulin expression in transgenic plants.

    PubMed

    Persson, S; Wyatt, S E; Love, J; Thompson, W F; Robertson, D; Boss, W F

    2001-07-01

    To investigate the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) Ca(2+) stores in plant cells, we generated tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum; NT1) suspension cells and Arabidopsis plants with altered levels of calreticulin (CRT), an ER-localized Ca(2+)-binding protein. NT1 cells and Arabidopsis plants were transformed with a maize (Zea mays) CRT gene in both sense and antisense orientations under the control of an Arabidopsis heat shock promoter. ER-enriched membrane fractions from NT1 cells were used to examine how altered expression of CRT affects Ca(2+) uptake and release. We found that a 2.5-fold increase in CRT led to a 2-fold increase in ATP-dependent (45)Ca(2+) accumulation in the ER-enriched fraction compared with heat-shocked wild-type controls. Furthermore, after treatment with the Ca(2+) ionophore ionomycin, ER microsomes from NT1 cells overproducing CRT showed a 2-fold increase in the amount of (45)Ca(2+) released, and a 2- to 3-fold increase in the amount of (45)Ca(2+) retained compared with wild type. These data indicate that altering the production of CRT affects the ER Ca(2+) pool. In addition, CRT transgenic Arabidopsis plants were used to determine if altered CRT levels had any physiological effects. We found that the level of CRT in heat shock-induced CRT transgenic plants correlated positively with the retention of chlorophyll when the plants were transferred from Ca(2+)-containing medium to Ca(2+)-depleted medium. Together these data are consistent with the hypothesis that increasing CRT in the ER increases the ER Ca(2+) stores and thereby enhances the survival of plants grown in low Ca(2+) medium.

  17. The Ca(2+) status of the endoplasmic reticulum is altered by induction of calreticulin expression in transgenic plants

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Persson, S.; Wyatt, S. E.; Love, J.; Thompson, W. F.; Robertson, D.; Boss, W. F.; Brown, C. S. (Principal Investigator)

    2001-01-01

    To investigate the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) Ca(2+) stores in plant cells, we generated tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum; NT1) suspension cells and Arabidopsis plants with altered levels of calreticulin (CRT), an ER-localized Ca(2+)-binding protein. NT1 cells and Arabidopsis plants were transformed with a maize (Zea mays) CRT gene in both sense and antisense orientations under the control of an Arabidopsis heat shock promoter. ER-enriched membrane fractions from NT1 cells were used to examine how altered expression of CRT affects Ca(2+) uptake and release. We found that a 2.5-fold increase in CRT led to a 2-fold increase in ATP-dependent (45)Ca(2+) accumulation in the ER-enriched fraction compared with heat-shocked wild-type controls. Furthermore, after treatment with the Ca(2+) ionophore ionomycin, ER microsomes from NT1 cells overproducing CRT showed a 2-fold increase in the amount of (45)Ca(2+) released, and a 2- to 3-fold increase in the amount of (45)Ca(2+) retained compared with wild type. These data indicate that altering the production of CRT affects the ER Ca(2+) pool. In addition, CRT transgenic Arabidopsis plants were used to determine if altered CRT levels had any physiological effects. We found that the level of CRT in heat shock-induced CRT transgenic plants correlated positively with the retention of chlorophyll when the plants were transferred from Ca(2+)-containing medium to Ca(2+)-depleted medium. Together these data are consistent with the hypothesis that increasing CRT in the ER increases the ER Ca(2+) stores and thereby enhances the survival of plants grown in low Ca(2+) medium.

  18. Calcium effects on stomatal movement in Commelina communis L

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Schwartz, A.; Ilan, N.; Grantz, D.A.

    1988-07-01

    Stomatal movements depends on both ion influx and efflux: attainment of steady state apertures reflects modulation of either or both processes. The role of Ca{sup 2+} in those two processes was investigated in isolated epidermal strips of Commelina communis, using the Ca{sup 2+} chelator EGTA to reduce apoplastic (Ca{sup 2+}). The results suggest that a certain concentration of Ca{sup 2+} is an absolute requirement for salt efflux and stomatal closure. EGTA (2 millimolar) increased KCl-dependent stomatal opening in darkness and completely inhibited the dark-induced closure of initially open stomata. Closure was inhibited even in a KCl-free medium. Thus, maintenance ofmore » stomata in the open state does not necessarily depend on continued K{sup +} influx but on the inhibition of salt efflux. Opening in the dark was stimulated by IAA in a concentration-dependent manner, up to 15.4 micrometer without reaching saturation, while the response to EGTA leveled off at 9.2 micrometer. IAA did not inhibit stomatal closure to the extent it stimulated opening. The response to IAA is thus consistent with a primary stimulation of opening, while EGTA can be considered a specific inhibitor of stomatal closing since it inhibits closure to a much larger degree than it stimulates opening. CO{sub 2} causes concentration-dependent reduction in the steady state stomatal aperture. EGTA completely reversed CO{sub 2}-induced closing of open stomata but only partially prevented the inhibition of opening.« less

  19. NCLX protein, but not LETM1, mediates mitochondrial Ca2+ extrusion, thereby limiting Ca2+-induced NAD(P)H production and modulating matrix redox state.

    PubMed

    De Marchi, Umberto; Santo-Domingo, Jaime; Castelbou, Cyril; Sekler, Israel; Wiederkehr, Andreas; Demaurex, Nicolas

    2014-07-18

    Mitochondria capture and subsequently release Ca(2+) ions, thereby sensing and shaping cellular Ca(2+) signals. The Ca(2+) uniporter MCU mediates Ca(2+) uptake, whereas NCLX (mitochondrial Na/Ca exchanger) and LETM1 (leucine zipper-EF-hand-containing transmembrane protein 1) were proposed to exchange Ca(2+) against Na(+) or H(+), respectively. Here we study the role of these ion exchangers in mitochondrial Ca(2+) extrusion and in Ca(2+)-metabolic coupling. Both NCLX and LETM1 proteins were expressed in HeLa cells mitochondria. The rate of mitochondrial Ca(2+) efflux, measured with a genetically encoded indicator during agonist stimulations, increased with the amplitude of mitochondrial Ca(2+) ([Ca(2+)]mt) elevations. NCLX overexpression enhanced the rates of Ca(2+) efflux, whereas increasing LETM1 levels had no impact on Ca(2+) extrusion. The fluorescence of the redox-sensitive probe roGFP increased during [Ca(2+)]mt elevations, indicating a net reduction of the matrix. This redox response was abolished by NCLX overexpression and restored by the Na(+)/Ca(2+) exchanger inhibitor CGP37157. The [Ca(2+)]mt elevations were associated with increases in the autofluorescence of NAD(P)H, whose amplitude was strongly reduced by NCLX overexpression, an effect reverted by Na(+)/Ca(2+) exchange inhibition. We conclude that NCLX, but not LETM1, mediates Ca(2+) extrusion from mitochondria. By controlling the duration of matrix Ca(2+) elevations, NCLX contributes to the regulation of NAD(P)H production and to the conversion of Ca(2+) signals into redox changes. © 2014 by The American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Inc.

  20. Pericellular Ca2+ recycling potentiates thrombin-evoked Ca2+ signals in human platelets

    PubMed Central

    Sage, Stewart O; Pugh, Nicholas; Farndale, Richard W; Harper, Alan G S

    2013-01-01

    We have previously demonstrated that Na+/Ca2+ exchangers (NCXs) potentiate Ca2+ signaling evoked by thapsigargin in human platelets, via their ability to modulate the secretion of autocoids from dense granules. This link was confirmed in platelets stimulated with the physiological agonist, thrombin, and experiments were performed to examine how Ca2+ removal by the NCX modulates platelet dense granule secretion. In cells loaded with the near-membrane indicator FFP-18, thrombin stimulation was observed to elicit an NCX-dependent accumulation of Ca2+ in a pericellular region around the platelets. To test whether this pericellular Ca2+ accumulation might be responsible for the influence of NCXs over platelet function, platelets were exposed to fast Ca2+ chelators or had their glycocalyx removed. Both manipulations of the pericellular Ca2+ rise reduced thrombin-evoked Ca2+ signals and dense granule secretion. Blocking Ca2+-permeable ion channels had a similar effect, suggesting that Ca2+ exported into the pericellular region is able to recycle back into the platelet cytosol. Single cell imaging with extracellular Fluo-4 indicated that thrombin-evoked rises in extracellular [Ca2+] occurred within the boundary described by the cell surface, suggesting their presence within the open canalicular system (OCS). FFP-18 fluorescence was similarly distributed. These data suggest that upon thrombin stimulation, NCX activity creates a rise in [Ca2+] within the pericellular region of the platelet from where it recycles back into the platelet cytosol, acting to both accelerate dense granule secretion and maintain the initial rise in cytosolic [Ca2+]. PMID:24303163

  1. Supercooling of aqueous NaCl and KCl solutions under acoustic levitation.

    PubMed

    Lü, Y J; Wei, B

    2006-10-14

    The supercooling capability of aqueous NaCl and KCl solutions is investigated at containerless state by using acoustic levitation method. The supercooling of water is obviously enhanced by the alkali metal ions and increases linearly with the augmentation of concentrations. Furthermore, the supercooling depends on the nature of ions and is 2-3 K larger for NaCl solution than that for KCl solution in the present concentration range: Molecular dynamics simulations are performed to reveal the intrinsic correlation between supercoolability and microstructure. The translational and orientational order parameters are applied to quantitatively demonstrate the effect of ionic concentration on the hydrogen-bond network and ice melting point. The disrupted hydrogen-bond structure determines essentially the concentration dependence of supercooling. On the other hand, the introduced acoustic pressure suppresses the increase of supercooling by promoting the growth and coalescence of microbubbles, the effective nucleation catalysts, in water. However, the dissolved ions can weaken this effect, and moreover the degree varies with the ion type. This results in the different supercoolability for NaCl and KCl solutions under the acoustic levitation conditions.

  2. Studies on the uptake of fatty acids by brush border membranes of the rabbit intestine.

    PubMed

    Proulx, P; Aubry, H; Brglez, I; Williamson, D G

    1985-04-01

    Initial studies revealed that the uptake of palmitic acid and oleic acid into brush border membranes was similar when these were isolated from either whole small intestine, jejunum, or ileum. The uptake of these fatty acids was somewhat lower with membranes obtained from duodenum. Subsequent studies, all with membranes obtained from whole intestine, indicated an increase in binding with chain length of fatty acid of up to 16 carbons. Unsaturation decreased this uptake somewhat. Taurocholate and 1-palmitoyl lysolecithin had a moderate stimulatory effect on the binding of oleic acid and palmitic acid at concentrations of 10 and 0.5 mM, respectively, and inhibited at higher concentrations. Addition of 1.4 mM egg lecithin to the fatty acid - bile salt micelles, such that the lecithin - bile salt ratio was 0.2, decreased the uptake of fatty acids generally, but did not significantly affect the pattern of binding by membrane fractions isolated from different segments nor did it change the pattern of labelling when fatty acid chain length and unsaturation were varied. At lower concentrations, egg lecithin had little effect on the uptake of oleic acid, whereas dipalmitoyl phosphatidylcholine stimulated binding of both palmitic acid and oleic acid over the entire range of concentrations tested. Preincubation of the membranes with this saturated phospholipid stimulated the uptake of oleic acid, and addition of this choline lipid to the oleic acid - bile salt containing micelles did not substantially enhance fatty acid uptake in lipid-treated membranes. The binding of fatty acid was very rapid either in the presence or the absence of Ca2+, such that even in zero-time controls essentially equilibrium bindings were obtained.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

  3. Intermediate mass fragment emission and iso-scaling in dissipative Ca+Sn reactions at 45 AMeV

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Singh, H.; Quinlan, M. J.; Tõke, J.; Pawelczak, I.; Henry, E.; Schröder, W. U.; Amorini, F.; Anzalone, A.; Maiolino, C.; Auditore, L.; Loria, D.; Trifiro, A.; Trimarchi, M.; Cardella, G.; De Filippo, E.; Pagano, A.; Chatterjee, M. B.; Cavallaro, S.; Geraci, E.; Papa, M.; Pirrone, S.; Verde, G.; Grzeszczuk, A.; Guazzoni, P.; Zetta, L.; La Guidara, E.; Lanzalone, G.; Lo Nigro, S.; Politi, G.; Loria, D.; Porto, F.; Rizzo, F.; Russotto, P.; Vigilante, M.

    2013-04-01

    The production mechanism of intermediate-mass fragments (IMFs) with atomic numbers Z = 3 - 7 is explored in the intermediate energy regime, studying dissipative 48Ca+112Sn and 48Ca+124Sn reactions at E/A = 45MeV. Various aspects of IMF emission patterns point to an inelastic break-up type production mechanism involving excited projectile-like fragment from dissipative interactions. Isotopic yield ratios of identical IMFs from the above two dissipative reactions have been analysed using the "isoscaling" method. Observed trends are correlated with ground-state binding energy systematics and their relevance for an evaluation of the symmetry energy is discussed.

  4. Microstructural study of codeposited pentacene:perfluoropentacene grown on KCl by TEM techniques

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Félix, Rocío; Breuer, Tobias; Witte, Gregor; Volz, Kerstin; Gries, Katharina I.

    2017-08-01

    Transmission electron microscopy techniques have been used as a research tool to derive information on structure and orientation of organic semiconductor blends. Within this work, we have studied the structure and morphology of pentacene (PEN, C22H14) and perfluoropentacene (PFP, C22F14) blends grown with [2:1] and [1:2] mixing ratios on KCl substrates. The [2:1] mixture exhibits a uniform layer on the substrate with domains that are rotated in-plane by 90° towards each other. Electron diffraction experiments revealed that these domains are formed by a crystalline mixed phase (consisting of PEN and PFP) and a PEN phase in excess whose lattice parameters are rather similar. By contrast, in the [1:2] blend, two different arrangements were found. The majority of the sample exhibits some spicular fibers on a background layer lying on top of the KCl substrate. The microstructural characterization revealed that these fibers consist of pure PFP in excess while the background layer is formed by the mixed phase. The other arrangement, which is present to a lesser extent, consists of a PFP film that is in direct contact with the KCl substrate. Using electron diffraction experiments, the orientation of the different phases with respect to each other and in some cases relative to the KCl substrate has been determined.

  5. Ca2+-Stimulated Adenylyl Cyclases Regulate ERK-Dependent Activation of MSK1 During Fear Conditioning

    PubMed Central

    Sindreu, Carlos Balet; Scheiner, Zachary S.; Storm, Daniel R.

    2007-01-01

    The cAMP and ERK/MAP kinase (MAPK) signal transduction pathways are critical for hippocampus-dependent memory, a process that depends on CREB-mediated transcription. However, the extent of crosstalk between these pathways and the downstream CREB kinase activated during memory formation have not been elucidated. Here we report that PKA, MAPK, and MSK1, a CREB kinase, are co-activated in a subset of hippocampal CA1 pyramidal neurons following contextual fear conditioning. Activation of PKA, MAPK, MSK1, and CREB is absolutely dependent on Ca2+-stimulated adenylyl cyclase activity. We conclude that adenylyl cyclase activity supports the activation of MAPK, and that MSK1 is the major CREB kinase activated during training for contextual memory. PMID:17196532

  6. Ser1928 phosphorylation by PKA stimulates the L-type Ca2+ channel CaV1.2 and vasoconstriction during acute hyperglycemia and diabetes.

    PubMed

    Nystoriak, Matthew A; Nieves-Cintrón, Madeline; Patriarchi, Tommaso; Buonarati, Olivia R; Prada, Maria Paz; Morotti, Stefano; Grandi, Eleonora; Fernandes, Julia Dos Santos; Forbush, Katherine; Hofmann, Franz; Sasse, Kent C; Scott, John D; Ward, Sean M; Hell, Johannes W; Navedo, Manuel F

    2017-01-24

    Hypercontractility of arterial myocytes and enhanced vascular tone during diabetes are, in part, attributed to the effects of increased glucose (hyperglycemia) on L-type Ca V 1.2 channels. In murine arterial myocytes, kinase-dependent mechanisms mediate the increase in Ca V 1.2 activity in response to increased extracellular glucose. We identified a subpopulation of the Ca V 1.2 channel pore-forming subunit (α1 C ) within nanometer proximity of protein kinase A (PKA) at the sarcolemma of murine and human arterial myocytes. This arrangement depended upon scaffolding of PKA by an A-kinase anchoring protein 150 (AKAP150) in mice. Glucose-mediated increases in Ca V 1.2 channel activity were associated with PKA activity, leading to α1 C phosphorylation at Ser 1928 Compared to arteries from low-fat diet (LFD)-fed mice and nondiabetic patients, arteries from high-fat diet (HFD)-fed mice and from diabetic patients had increased Ser 1928 phosphorylation and Ca V 1.2 activity. Arterial myocytes and arteries from mice lacking AKAP150 or expressing mutant AKAP150 unable to bind PKA did not exhibit increased Ser 1928 phosphorylation and Ca V 1.2 current density in response to increased glucose or to HFD. Consistent with a functional role for Ser 1928 phosphorylation, arterial myocytes and arteries from knockin mice expressing a Ca V 1.2 with Ser 1928 mutated to alanine (S1928A) lacked glucose-mediated increases in Ca V 1.2 activity and vasoconstriction. Furthermore, the HFD-induced increases in Ca V 1.2 current density and myogenic tone were prevented in S1928A knockin mice. These findings reveal an essential role for α1 C phosphorylation at Ser 1928 in stimulating Ca V 1.2 channel activity and vasoconstriction by AKAP-targeted PKA upon exposure to increased glucose and in diabetes. Copyright © 2017, American Association for the Advancement of Science.

  7. Acid-gastric antisecretory effect of the ethanolic extract from Arctium lappa L. root: role of H+, K+-ATPase, Ca2+ influx and the cholinergic pathway.

    PubMed

    da Silva, Luisa Mota; Burci, Ligia de Moura; Crestani, Sandra; de Souza, Priscila; da Silva, Rita de Cássia Melo Vilhena de Andrade Fonseca; Dartora, Nessana; de Souza, Lauro Mera; Cipriani, Thales Ricardo; da Silva-Santos, José Eduardo; André, Eunice; Werner, Maria Fernanda de Paula

    2018-04-01

    Arctium lappa L., popularly known as burdock, is a medicinal plant used worldwide. The antiulcer and gastric-acid antisecretory effects of ethanolic extract from roots of Arctium lappa (EET) were already demonstrated. However, the mechanism by which the extract reduces the gastric acid secretion remains unclear. Therefore, this study was designed to evaluate the antisecretory mode of action of EET. The effects of EET on H + , K + -ATPase activity were verified in vitro, whereas the effects of the extract on cholinergic-, histaminergic- or gastrinergic-acid gastric stimulation were assessed in vivo on stimulated pylorus ligated rats. Moreover, ex vivo contractility studies on gastric muscle strips from rats were also employed. The incubation with EET (1000 µg/ml) partially inhibited H + , K + -ATPase activity, and the intraduodenal administration of EET (10 mg/kg) decreased the volume and acidity of gastric secretion stimulated by bethanechol, histamine, and pentagastrin. EET (100-1000 µg/ml) did not alter the gastric relaxation induced by histamine but decreased acetylcholine-induced contraction in gastric fundus strips. Interestingly, EET also reduced the increase in the gastric muscle tone induced by 40 mM KCl depolarizing solution, as well as the maximum contractile responses evoked by CaCl 2 in Ca 2+ -free depolarizing solution, without impairing the effect of acetylcholine on fundus strips maintained in Ca 2+ -free nutritive solution. Our results reinforce the gastric antisecretory properties of preparations obtained from Arctium lappa, and indicate that the mechanisms involved in EET antisecretory effects include a moderate reduction of the H + , K + -ATPase activity associated with inhibitory effects on calcium influx and of cholinergic pathways in the stomach muscle.

  8. Properties of the LiCl-KCl-Li2O system as operating medium for pyro-chemical reprocessing of spent nuclear fuel

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Mullabaev, Albert; Tkacheva, Olga; Shishkin, Vladimir; Kovrov, Vadim; Zaikov, Yuriy; Sukhanov, Leonid; Mochalov, Yuriy

    2018-03-01

    Crystallization temperatures (liquidus and solidus) in the LiCl-Li2O and (LiCl-KCl)-Li2O systems with the KCl content of 10 and 20 mol.% were obtained with independent methods of thermal analysis using cooling curves, isothermal saturation, and differential scanning calorimetry. The linear sweep voltammetry was applied to control the time of the equilibrium establishment in the molten system after the Li2O addition, which depended on the composition of the base melt and the concentration of Li2O. The fragments of the binary LiCl-Li2O and quazi-binary [LiCl-KCl(10 mol.%)]-Li2O and [LiCl-KCl(20 mol.%)]-Li2O phase diagrams in the Li2O concentration range from 0 to 12 mol.% were obtained. The KCl presence in the LiCl-KCl-Li2O molten mixture in the amount of 10 and 20 mol.% reduces the liquidus temperature by 30 and 80°, respectively, but the region of the homogeneous molten state of the system is considerably narrowed, which complicates its practical application. The Li2O solubility in the molten LiCl, LiCl-KCl(10 mol.%) and LiCl-KCl(20 mol.%) decreases with increasing the KCl content and is equal to 11.5, 7.7 and 3.9 mol.% at 650°С, respectively. The LiCl-KCl melt with 10 mol.% KCl can be recommended for practical use as a medium for the SNF pyro-chemical reprocessing at temperature below 700 °C.

  9. New anticancer drug candidates sulfonamides as selective hCA IX or hCA XII inhibitors.

    PubMed

    Gul, Halise Inci; Yamali, Cem; Sakagami, Hiroshi; Angeli, Andrea; Leitans, Janis; Kazaks, Andris; Tars, Kaspars; Ozgun, Dilan Ozmen; Supuran, Claudiu T

    2018-04-01

    In this study, new 4-[3-(aryl)-5-substitutedphenyl-4,5-dihydro-1H-pyrazole-1-yl]benzensulfonamides (19-36) were synthesized and evaluated their cytotoxic/anticancer and CA inhibitory effects. According to results obtained, the compounds 34 (4-[5-(2,3,4-trimethoxyphenyl)-3-(thiophen-2-yl)-4,5-dihydro-1H-pyrazole-1-yl] benzensulfonamide, Potency-Selectivity Expression (PSE) = 141) and 36 (4-[5-(3,4,5-trimethoxyphenyl)-3-(thiophen-2-yl)-4,5-dihydro-1H-pyrazole-1-yl]benzensulfonamide, PSE = 54.5) were found the leader anticancer compounds with the highest PSE values. In CA inhibitory studies, the compounds 36 and 24 (4-[5-(3,4,5-trimethoxyphenyl)-3-(4-fluorophenyl)-4,5-dihydro-1H-pyrazole-1-yl]benzensulfonamide) were found the leader CA inhibitors depending on selectivity ratios. The compound 36 was a selective inhibitor of hCA XII isoenzyme (hCA I/hCA XII = 1250 and hCA II/hCA XII = 224) while the compound 24 was a selective inhibitor of hCA IX isoenzyme (hCA I/hCA IX = 161 and hCA II/hCA IX = 177). The compounds 24, 34, and 36 can be considered to develop new anticancer drug candidates. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  10. The Ca2+ Status of the Endoplasmic Reticulum Is Altered by Induction of Calreticulin Expression in Transgenic Plants1

    PubMed Central

    Persson, Staffan; Wyatt, Sarah E.; Love, John; Thompson, William F.; Robertson, Dominique; Boss, Wendy F.

    2001-01-01

    To investigate the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) Ca2+ stores in plant cells, we generated tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum; NT1) suspension cells and Arabidopsis plants with altered levels of calreticulin (CRT), an ER-localized Ca2+-binding protein. NT1 cells and Arabidopsis plants were transformed with a maize (Zea mays) CRT gene in both sense and antisense orientations under the control of an Arabidopsis heat shock promoter. ER-enriched membrane fractions from NT1 cells were used to examine how altered expression of CRT affects Ca2+ uptake and release. We found that a 2.5-fold increase in CRT led to a 2-fold increase in ATP-dependent 45Ca2+ accumulation in the ER-enriched fraction compared with heat-shocked wild-type controls. Furthermore, after treatment with the Ca2+ ionophore ionomycin, ER microsomes from NT1 cells overproducing CRT showed a 2-fold increase in the amount of 45Ca2+ released, and a 2- to 3-fold increase in the amount of 45Ca2+ retained compared with wild type. These data indicate that altering the production of CRT affects the ER Ca2+ pool. In addition, CRT transgenic Arabidopsis plants were used to determine if altered CRT levels had any physiological effects. We found that the level of CRT in heat shock-induced CRT transgenic plants correlated positively with the retention of chlorophyll when the plants were transferred from Ca2+-containing medium to Ca2+-depleted medium. Together these data are consistent with the hypothesis that increasing CRT in the ER increases the ER Ca2+ stores and thereby enhances the survival of plants grown in low Ca2+ medium. PMID:11457960

  11. Changes in calcium uptake rate by rat cardiac mitochondria during postnatal development.

    PubMed

    Bassani, R A; Fagian, M M; Bassani, J W; Vercesi, A E

    1998-10-01

    Ca2+ uptake, transmembrane electrical potential (Deltapsim) and oxygen consumption were measured in isolated ventricular mitochondria of rats from 3 days to 5 months of age. Estimated values of ruthenium red-sensitive, succinate-supported maximal rate of Ca2+ uptake (Vmax, expressed as nmol Ca2+/min/mg protein) were higher in neonates and gradually fell during postnatal development (from 435+/-24 at 3-6 days, to 156+/-10 in adults,P<0.001), whereas K0.5 values (approximately 10 microM were not significantly affected by age. Under similar conditions, mitochondria from adults (5 months old) and neonates (4-6 days old) showed comparable state 4 (succinate and alpha-ketoglutarate as substrates) and state 3ADP (alpha-ketoglutarate-supported) respiration rates, as well as Deltapsim values (approximately-150 mV). Respiration-independent Deltapsim and Ca2+ uptake, supported by valinomycin-induced K+ efflux were also investigated at these ages. A transient Deltapsim (approximately -30 mV) was evoked by valinomycin in both neonatal and adult mitochondria. Respiration-independent Ca2+ uptake was also transient, but its initial rate was significantly higher in neonates than in adults (49. 4+/-10.0v 28.0+/-5.7 mmol Ca2+/min/mg protein,P<0.01). These results indicate that Ca2+ uptake capacity of rat cardiac mitochondria is remarkably high just after birth and declines over the first weeks of postnatal life, without change in apparent affinity of the transporter. Increased mitochondrial Ca2+ uptake rate in neonates appears to be related to the uniporter itself, rather than to modification of the driving force of the transport. Copyright 1998 Academic Press

  12. Archaeal orthologs of Cdc45 and GINS form a stable complex that stimulates the helicase activity of MCM.

    PubMed

    Xu, Yuli; Gristwood, Tamzin; Hodgson, Ben; Trinidad, Jonathan C; Albers, Sonja-Verena; Bell, Stephen D

    2016-11-22

    The regulated recruitment of Cdc45 and GINS is key to activating the eukaryotic MCM(2-7) replicative helicase. We demonstrate that the homohexameric archaeal MCM helicase associates with orthologs of GINS and Cdc45 in vivo and in vitro. Association of these factors with MCM robustly stimulates the MCM helicase activity. In contrast to the situation in eukaryotes, archaeal Cdc45 and GINS form an extremely stable complex before binding MCM. Further, the archaeal GINS•Cdc45 complex contains two copies of Cdc45. Our analyses give insight into the function and evolution of the conserved core of the archaeal/eukaryotic replisome.

  13. Localization of insulinomas to regions of the pancreas by intraarterial calcium stimulation: the NIH experience.

    PubMed

    Guettier, Jean-Marc; Kam, Anthony; Chang, Richard; Skarulis, Monica C; Cochran, Craig; Alexander, H Richard; Libutti, Steven K; Pingpank, James F; Gorden, Phillip

    2009-04-01

    Selective intraarterial calcium injection of the major pancreatic arteries with hepatic venous sampling [calcium arterial stimulation (CaStim)] has been used as a localizing tool for insulinomas at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) since 1989. The accuracy of this technique for localizing insulinomas was reported for all cases until 1996. The aim of the study was to assess the accuracy and track record of the CaStim over time and in the context of evolving technology and to review issues related to result interpretation and procedure complications. CaStim was the only invasive preoperative localization modality used at our center. Endoscopic ultrasound (US) was not studied. We conducted a retrospective case review at a referral center. Twenty-nine women and 16 men (mean age, 47 yr; range, 13-78) were diagnosed with an insulinoma from 1996-2008. A supervised fast was conducted to confirm the diagnosis of insulinoma. US, computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and CaStim were used as preoperative localization studies. Localization predicted by each preoperative test was compared to surgical localization for accuracy. We measured the accuracy of US, CT, MRI, and CaStim for localization of insulinomas preoperatively. All 45 patients had surgically proven insulinomas. Thirty-eight of 45 (84%) localized to the correct anatomical region by CaStim. In five of 45 (11%) patients, the CaStim was falsely negative. Two of 45 (4%) had false-positive localizations. The CaStim has remained vastly superior to abdominal US, CT, or MRI over time as a preoperative localizing tool for insulinomas. The utility of the CaStim for this purpose and in this setting is thus validated.

  14. Calcium Uptake by Excised Maize Roots and Interactions With Alkali Cations 1

    PubMed Central

    Maas, E. V.

    1969-01-01

    Ca2+ uptake was studied in short-term experiments using 5-day-old excised maize roots. This tissue readily absorbs Ca2+, and inhibition by dinitrophenol and low temperature shows that the process is metabolically mediated. The uptake of Ca2+, like that of other cations, is influenced by the counter ion, the pH and concentration of the ambient solution, and the presence of other cations. The rate of uptake from various salts decreases in the following order: NO3− > Cl− = Br− > SO42−. K+ and H+ greatly interfere with Ca2+ absorption, while Li+ and Na+ have only slight effects. PMID:16657169

  15. Superoxide anion radical-triggered Ca2+ release from cardiac sarcoplasmic reticulum through ryanodine receptor Ca2+ channel.

    PubMed

    Kawakami, M; Okabe, E

    1998-03-01

    The ryanodine receptor Ca2+ channel (RyRC) constitutes the Ca2+-release pathway in sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) of cardiac muscle. A direct mechanical and a Ca2+-triggered mechanism (Ca2+-induced Ca2+ release) have been proposed to explain the in situ activation of Ca2+ release in cardiac muscle. A variety of chemical oxidants have been shown to activate RyRC; however, the role of modification induced by oxygen-derived free radicals in pathological states of the muscle remains to be elucidated. It has been hypothesized that oxygen-derived free radicals initiate Ca2+-mediated functional changes in or damage to cardiac muscle by acting on the SR and promoting an increase in Ca2+ release. We confirmed that superoxide anion radical (O2-) generated from hypoxanthine-xanthine oxidase reaction decreases calmodulin content and increases 45Ca2+ efflux from the heavy fraction of canine cardiac SR vesicles; hypoxanthine-xanthine oxidase also decreases Ca2+ free within the intravesicular space of the SR with no effect on Ca2+-ATPase activity. Current fluctuations through single Ca2+-release channels have been monitored after incorporation into planar phospholipid bilayers. We demonstrate that activation of the channel by O2- is dependent of the presence of calmodulin and identified calmodulin as a functional mediator of O2--triggered Ca2+ release through the RyRC. For the first time, we show that O2- stimulates Ca2+ release from heavy SR vesicles and suggest the importance of accessory proteins such as calmodulin in modulating the effect of O2-. The decreased calmodulin content induced by oxygen-derived free radicals, especially O2-, is a likely mechanism of accumulation of cytosolic Ca2+ (due to increased Ca2+ release from SR) after reperfusion of the ischemic heart.

  16. Fasting-induced liver GADD45β restrains hepatic fatty acid uptake and improves metabolic health.

    PubMed

    Fuhrmeister, Jessica; Zota, Annika; Sijmonsma, Tjeerd P; Seibert, Oksana; Cıngır, Şahika; Schmidt, Kathrin; Vallon, Nicola; de Guia, Roldan M; Niopek, Katharina; Berriel Diaz, Mauricio; Maida, Adriano; Blüher, Matthias; Okun, Jürgen G; Herzig, Stephan; Rose, Adam J

    2016-06-01

    Recent studies have demonstrated that repeated short-term nutrient withdrawal (i.e. fasting) has pleiotropic actions to promote organismal health and longevity. Despite this, the molecular physiological mechanisms by which fasting is protective against metabolic disease are largely unknown. Here, we show that, metabolic control, particularly systemic and liver lipid metabolism, is aberrantly regulated in the fasted state in mouse models of metabolic dysfunction. Liver transcript assays between lean/healthy and obese/diabetic mice in fasted and fed states uncovered "growth arrest and DNA damage-inducible" GADD45β as a dysregulated gene transcript during fasting in several models of metabolic dysfunction including ageing, obesity/pre-diabetes and type 2 diabetes, in both mice and humans. Using whole-body knockout mice as well as liver/hepatocyte-specific gain- and loss-of-function strategies, we revealed a role for liver GADD45β in the coordination of liver fatty acid uptake, through cytoplasmic retention of FABP1, ultimately impacting obesity-driven hyperglycaemia. In summary, fasting stress-induced GADD45β represents a liver-specific molecular event promoting adaptive metabolic function. © 2016 The Authors. Published under the terms of the CC BY 4.0 license.

  17. Tocotrienols Stimulate Insulin Secretion of Rat Pancreatic Isolated Islets in a Dynamic Culture.

    PubMed

    Chia, Ling L; Jantan, Ibrahim; Chua, Kien H

    2017-01-01

    Tocotrienols (T3) are the naturally occurring vitamin E derivatives that possess antioxidant properties and therapeutic potential in diabetic complications. The bioactivities of the derivatives are determined by the number and arrangement of methyl substitution on the structure. The objective of this study was to determine the effects of T3 derivatives, σ-T3, γ-T3 and α-T3 on insulin secretion of rat pancreatic islets in a dynamic culture. Pancreatic islets isolated from male Wistar rats were treated with T3 for 1 h at 37°C in a microfluidic system with continuous operation that provided a stable cell culture environment. Glucose (2.8 mM and 16.7 mM, as basal and stimulant, respectively) and potassium chloride (KCl) (30 mM) were added to the treatment in calcium free medium. The supernatant was collected for insulin measurements. Short-term exposure (1 h) of σ-T3 to β cells in the stimulant glucose condition significantly potentiated insulin secretion in a dose-dependent manner. γ-T3 and α-T3 also displayed dosedependent effect but were less effective in the activation of insulin secretion. Essentially, KCl, a pancreatic β cell membrane depolarizing agent, added into the treatment further enhanced the insulin secretion of σ-T3, γ-T3 and α-T3 with ED50 values of 504, 511 and 588 µM, respectively. The findings suggest the potential of σ-T3 in regulating glucose-stimulated insulin secretion (GSIS) in response to the intracellular calcium especially in the presence of KCl. Copyright© Bentham Science Publishers; For any queries, please email at epub@benthamscience.org.

  18. Role of mitochondrial calcium uptake homeostasis in resting state fMRI brain networks.

    PubMed

    Kannurpatti, Sridhar S; Sanganahalli, Basavaraju G; Herman, Peter; Hyder, Fahmeed

    2015-11-01

    Mitochondrial Ca(2+) uptake influences both brain energy metabolism and neural signaling. Given that brain mitochondrial organelles are distributed in relation to vascular density, which varies considerably across brain regions, we hypothesized different physiological impacts of mitochondrial Ca(2+) uptake across brain regions. We tested the hypothesis by monitoring brain "intrinsic activity" derived from the resting state functional MRI (fMRI) blood oxygen level dependent (BOLD) fluctuations in different functional networks spanning the somatosensory cortex, caudate putamen, hippocampus and thalamus, in normal and perturbed mitochondrial Ca(2+) uptake states. In anesthetized rats at 11.7 T, mitochondrial Ca(2+) uptake was inhibited or enhanced respectively by treatments with Ru360 or kaempferol. Surprisingly, mitochondrial Ca(2+) uptake inhibition by Ru360 and enhancement by kaempferol led to similar dose-dependent decreases in brain-wide intrinsic activities in both the frequency domain (spectral amplitude) and temporal domain (resting state functional connectivity; RSFC). The fact that there were similar dose-dependent decreases in the frequency and temporal domains of the resting state fMRI-BOLD fluctuations during mitochondrial Ca(2+) uptake inhibition or enhancement indicated that mitochondrial Ca(2+) uptake and its homeostasis may strongly influence the brain's functional organization at rest. Interestingly, the resting state fMRI-derived intrinsic activities in the caudate putamen and thalamic regions saturated much faster with increasing dosage of either drug treatment than the drug-induced trends observed in cortical and hippocampal regions. Regional differences in how the spectral amplitude and RSFC changed with treatment indicate distinct mitochondrion-mediated spontaneous neuronal activity coupling within the various RSFC networks determined by resting state fMRI. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

  19. Archaeal orthologs of Cdc45 and GINS form a stable complex that stimulates the helicase activity of MCM

    PubMed Central

    Xu, Yuli; Gristwood, Tamzin; Hodgson, Ben; Trinidad, Jonathan C.; Albers, Sonja-Verena; Bell, Stephen D.

    2016-01-01

    The regulated recruitment of Cdc45 and GINS is key to activating the eukaryotic MCM(2-7) replicative helicase. We demonstrate that the homohexameric archaeal MCM helicase associates with orthologs of GINS and Cdc45 in vivo and in vitro. Association of these factors with MCM robustly stimulates the MCM helicase activity. In contrast to the situation in eukaryotes, archaeal Cdc45 and GINS form an extremely stable complex before binding MCM. Further, the archaeal GINS•Cdc45 complex contains two copies of Cdc45. Our analyses give insight into the function and evolution of the conserved core of the archaeal/eukaryotic replisome. PMID:27821767

  20. Role of Ca2+-independent phospholipase A2 and cytochrome P-450 in store-operated calcium entry in 3T6 fibroblasts.

    PubMed

    Martínez, Javier; Moreno, Juan J

    2005-09-01

    Store-operated calcium (SOC) channels and capacitative Ca2+ entry play a key role in cellular functions, but their mechanism of activation remains unclear. Here, we show that thapsigargin induces [3H] arachidonic acid (AA) release, 45Ca2+ influx and a subsequent enhancement of intracellular calcium concentration ([Ca2+]i. Thapsigargin-induced elevation of [Ca2+]i was inhibited by cytochrome P-450 inhibitors and by cytochrome P-450 epoxygenase inhibitor and was reverted by 11,12 EET addition. However, cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase inhibitors have no effect. Moreover, we observed that four EETs were able to induce 45Ca2+ influx. Finally, we reported that the effect of 11,12 EET on 45Ca2+ influx was sensible to receptor-operated Ca2+ channel blockers (NiCl2, LaCl3) but not to voltage-dependent Ca2+ channel blocker as verapamil. Thus, AA released by Ca2+-independent phospholipase A2 and AA metabolism through cytochrome P-450 pathway may be crucial molecular determinant in thapsigargin activation of SOC channels and store-operated Ca2+ entry pathway in 3T6 fibroblasts. Moreover, EETs, the main cytochrome P-450 epoxygenase metabolites of AA, are involved in thapsigargin-stimulated Ca2+ influx. In summary, our results suggest that EETs are components of calcium influx factor(s).

  1. Anoctamin 6 Contributes to Cl- Secretion in Accessory Cholera Enterotoxin (Ace)-stimulated Diarrhea: AN ESSENTIAL ROLE FOR PHOSPHATIDYLINOSITOL 4,5-BISPHOSPHATE (PIP2) SIGNALING IN CHOLERA.

    PubMed

    Aoun, Joydeep; Hayashi, Mikio; Sheikh, Irshad Ali; Sarkar, Paramita; Saha, Tultul; Ghosh, Priyanka; Bhowmick, Rajsekhar; Ghosh, Dipanjan; Chatterjee, Tanaya; Chakrabarti, Pinak; Chakrabarti, Manoj K; Hoque, Kazi Mirajul

    2016-12-23

    Accessory cholera enterotoxin (Ace) of Vibrio cholerae has been shown to contribute to diarrhea. However, the signaling mechanism and specific type of Cl - channel activated by Ace are still unknown. We have shown here that the recombinant Ace protein induced I Cl of apical plasma membrane, which was inhibited by classical CaCC blockers. Surprisingly, an Ace-elicited rise of current was neither affected by ANO1 (TMEM16A)-specific inhibitor T16A (inh) -AO1(TAO1) nor by the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) blocker, CFTR inh-172. Ace stimulated whole-cell current in Caco-2 cells. However, the apical I Cl was attenuated by knockdown of ANO6 (TMEM16F). This impaired phenotype was restored by re-expression of ANO6 in Caco-2 cells. Whole-cell patch clamp recordings of ANO currents in HEK293 cells transiently expressing mouse ANO1-mCherry or ANO6-GFP confirmed that Ace induced Cl - secretion. Application of Ace produced ANO6 but not the ANO1 currents. Ace was not able to induce a [Ca 2+ ] i rise in Caco-2 cells, but cellular abundance of phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PIP 2 ) increased. Identification of the PIP 2 -binding motif at the N-terminal sequence among human and mouse ANO6 variants along with binding of PIP 2 directly to ANO6 in HEK293 cells indicate likely PIP 2 regulation of ANO6. The biophysical and pharmacological properties of Ace stimulated Cl - current along with intestinal fluid accumulation, and binding of PIP 2 to the proximal KR motif of channel proteins, whose mutagenesis correlates with altered binding of PIP 2 , is comparable with ANO6 stimulation. We conclude that ANO6 is predominantly expressed in intestinal epithelia, where it contributes secretory diarrhea by Ace stimulation in a calcium-independent mechanism of RhoA-ROCK-PIP 2 signaling. © 2016 by The American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Inc.

  2. Electrochemical extraction of neodymium by co-reduction with aluminum in LiCl-KCl molten salt

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Yan, Yong-De; Xu, Yan-Lu; Zhang, Mi-Lin; Xue, Yun; Han, Wei; Huang, Ying; Chen, Qiong; Zhang, Zhi-Jian

    2013-02-01

    The electrochemical behavior of Nd(III) ions in LiCl-KCl and LiCl-KCl-AlCl3 melts on a Mo electrode at 723 K was studied by various electrochemical techniques. The results showed that Nd(III) ions are reduced to Nd(0) through two consecutive steps, and the underpotential deposition of neodymium on pre-deposited Al electrode formed two kinds of Al-Nd intermetallic compounds in LiCl-KCl-AlCl3 solutions. The electrochemical extraction of neodymium was carried out in LiCl-KCl-AlCl3 melts on a Mo electrode at 873 K by potentiostatic and galvanostatic electrolysis. The extraction efficiency was 99.25% after potentiostatic electrolysis for 30 h. Al-Li-Nd bulk alloy was obtained by galvanostatic electrolysis. X-ray diffraction (XRD) suggested that Al2Nd and Al3Nd phases were formed in Al-Li-Nd alloy. The microstructure and micro-zone chemical analysis of Al-Li-Nd alloy were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) with energy dispersive spectrometry (EDS), respectively.

  3. Phase relations in the system NaCl-KCl-H2O. Part I: Differential thermal analysis of the NaCl-KCl liquidas at 1 atmosphere and 500, 1000, 1500, and 2000 bars

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Chou, I.-Ming

    1982-01-01

    A simple differential thermal analysis (DTA) technique has been developed to study phase relations of various chemical systems at elevated pressures and temperatures. The DTA system has been calibrated against known melting temperatures in the system NaCl-KCl. Isobaric sections of the liquidus in the system NaCl-KCl have been determined at pressures of 1 atmosphere and 500, 1000, 1500, and 2000 bars. Using the least-squares method, the following equation was used to fit the experimental data: T(??C)= ??? i=0 6aiXiKCl where T is the liquidus temperature, XKCl is mole fraction of KCl, and ai (listed below) are the derived empirical constants. {A table is presented}. The liquidus temperatures estimated from these equations are within ??3??C of experimental values. The measured liquidus temperatures at 1 atmosphere agree with the best available data to within 5??C. The melting temperatures for pure end members at higher pressures agree with the values calculated from the Simon equation (Clark, 1959) to within 3??C. No previous melting data are available for the intermediate compositions at elevated pressures. Using the data in both heating and cooling scans, the minimum melting temperature at 1 atmosphere in the system was located at 658?? ?? 3??C where the sample has an equimolar composition. ?? 1982.

  4. The stimulation of proliferation and differentiation of periodontal ligament cells by the ionic products from Ca7Si2P2O16 bioceramics.

    PubMed

    Zhou, Yinghong; Wu, Chengtie; Xiao, Yin

    2012-07-01

    The ultimate goal of periodontal tissue engineering is to produce predictable regeneration of alveolar bone, root cementum, and periodontal ligament, which are lost as a result of periodontal diseases. To achieve this goal, it is of great importance to develop novel bioactive materials which could stimulate the proliferation, differentiation and osteogenic/cementogenic gene expression of periodontal ligament cells (PDLCs) for periodontal regeneration. In this study, we synthesized novel Ca(7)Si(2)P(2)O(16) ceramic powders for the first time by the sol-gel method and investigated the biological performance of PDLCs after exposure to different concentrations of Ca(7)Si(2)P(2)O(16) extracts. The original extracts were prepared at 200 mg ml(-1) and further diluted with serum-free cell culture medium to obtain a series of diluted extracts (100, 50, 25, 12.5 and 6.25 mg ml(-1)). Proliferation, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity, Ca deposition, and osteogenesis/cementogenesis-related gene expression (ALP, Col I, Runx2 and CEMP1) were assayed for PDLCs on days 7 and 14. The results showed that the ionic products from Ca(7)Si(2)P(2)O(16) powders significantly stimulated the proliferation, ALP activity, Ca deposition and osteogenesis/cementogenesis-related gene expression of PDLCs. In addition, it was found that Ca(7)Si(2)P(2)O(16) powders had excellent apatite-mineralization ability in simulated body fluids. This study demonstrated that Ca(7)Si(2)P(2)O(16) powders with such a specific composition possess the ability to stimulate the PDLC proliferation and osteoblast/cemenoblast-like cell differentiation, indicating that they are a promising bioactive material for periodontal tissue regeneration application. Copyright © 2012 Acta Materialia Inc. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  5. Tumor necrosis factor-alpha inhibits insulin's stimulating effect on glucose uptake and endothelium-dependent vasodilation in humans.

    PubMed

    Rask-Madsen, Christian; Domínguez, Helena; Ihlemann, Nikolaj; Hermann, Thomas; Køber, Lars; Torp-Pedersen, Christian

    2003-10-14

    Inflammatory mechanisms could be involved in the pathogenesis of both insulin resistance and atherosclerosis. Therefore, we aimed at examining whether the proinflammatory cytokine tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha inhibits insulin-stimulated glucose uptake and insulin-stimulated endothelial function in humans. Healthy, lean male volunteers were studied. On each study day, 3 acetylcholine (ACh) or sodium nitroprusside (SNP) dose-response studies were performed by infusion into the brachial artery. Before and during the last 2 dose-response studies, insulin and/or TNF-alpha were coinfused. During infusion of insulin alone for 20 minutes, forearm glucose uptake increased by 220+/-44%. This increase was completely inhibited during coinfusion of TNF-alpha (started 10 min before insulin) with a more pronounced inhibition of glucose extraction than of blood flow. Furthermore, TNF-alpha inhibited the ACh forearm blood flow response (P<0.001), and this inhibition was larger during insulin infusion (P=0.01) but not further increased by NG-monomethyl-L-arginine acetate (P=0.2). Insulin potentiated the SNP response less than the ACh response and the effect of TNF-alpha was smaller (P<0.001); TNF-alpha had no effect on the SNP response without insulin infusion. Thus, TNF-alpha inhibition of the combined response to insulin and ACh was likely mediated through inhibition of NO production. These results support the concept that TNF-alpha could play a role in the development of insulin resistance in humans, both in muscle and in vascular tissue.

  6. High-affinity K+ uptake in pepper plants.

    PubMed

    Martínez-Cordero, M Angeles; Martínez, Vicente; Rubio, Francisco

    2005-06-01

    High-affinity K+ uptake is an essential process for plant nutrition under K+-limiting conditions. The results presented here demonstrate that pepper (Capsicum annuum) plants grown in the absence of NH4+ and starved of K+ show an NH4+-sensitive high-affinity K+ uptake that allows plant roots to deplete external K+ to values below 1 microM. When plants are grown in the presence of NH4+, high-affinity K+ uptake is not inhibited by NH4+. Although NH4+-grown plants deplete external K+ below 1 microM in the absence of NH4+, when 1 mM NH4+ is present they do not deplete external K+ below 10 microM. A K+ transporter of the HAK family, CaHAK1, is very likely mediating the NH4+-sensitive component of the high-affinity K+ uptake in pepper roots. CaHAK1 is strongly induced in the roots that show the NH4+-sensitive high-affinity K+ uptake and its induction is reduced in K+-starved plants grown in the presence of NH4+. The NH4+-insensitive K+ uptake may be mediated by an AKT1-like K+ channel.

  7. The impact of pH and calcium on the uptake of fluoride by tea plants (Camellia sinensis L.).

    PubMed

    Ruan, Jianyun; Ma, Lifeng; Shi, Yuanzhi; Han, Wenyan

    2004-01-01

    Tea plants (Camellia sinensis L.) accumulate large amounts of fluoride (F) from soils containing normal F concentrations. The present experiments examined the effects of pH and Ca on F uptake by this accumulating plant species. The effect of pH was assessed in two experiments, one using uptake solutions with different pHs, and the other using lime, as CaO, applied to the soil. The effect of Ca was examined by analysing F concentrations in plants supplied with varying amounts of Ca, as Ca(NO3)2, either in uptake solutions or through the soil. F uptake was highest at solution pH 5.5, and significantly lower at pH 4.0. In the soil experiment, leaf F decreased linearly with the amounts of lime, which raised the soil pH progressively from 4.32 to 4.91, 5.43, 5.89 and, finally, 6.55. Liming increased the water-soluble F content of the soil. Including Ca in the uptake solution or adding Ca to soil significantly decreased leaf F concentrations. The distribution pattern of F in tea plants was not altered by Ca treatment, with most F being allocated to leaves. The activity of F- in the uptake solution was unaffected and water-soluble F in the soil was sometimes increased by added Ca. F uptake by tea plants, which are inherently able to accumulate large quantities of F, was affected both by pH and by Ca levels in the medium. The reduced F uptake following Ca application appeared not to be due simply to the precipitation of CaF2 in solution and soil or to the complexing of Ca and F in roots, although these factors cannot be dismissed. It was more likely due to the effect of Ca on the properties of cell wall or membrane permeability in the solution experiments, and to alteration of F speciations and their quantities in soil solutions following Ca application.

  8. Selective Inhibition of K+, Na+, Cl−, and PO43− Uptake in Zea mays L. by Bipolaris (Helminthosporium) maydis Race T Pathotoxin

    PubMed Central

    Mertz, Stuart M.; Arntzen, Charles J.

    1977-01-01

    Pathotoxin preparations were obtained from either axenic culture filtrate of race T of Bipolaris maydis (Nisikado) Shoemaker (new culture media and toxin purification procedures are described) or extracts of maize leaves infected with the fungus. The toxins (10−6 to 10−8m) caused inhibition of [86Rb]K+ uptake in leaf discs and apical root segments of Zea mays L. cv W64A Texas (Tcms) and normal (N) cytoplasms. Significant inhibition was measurable as early as 5 min after adding toxin. In Tcms per cent inhibition was increased by increasing toxin concentration and time in toxin, by using solution at pH 5 rather than pH 7, by decreasing external KCl concentration over the range 50 to 0.1 mm (in the presence of 0.5 mm CaSO4), or by exposing leaf discs to light rather than dark during the uptake period in toxin. Root uptake of 22Na+ and 36Cl− was inhibited to a lesser extent than K+. Inhibition of 32PO43− uptake occurred after 40 min when cyclosis had ceased. When combined with data in the literature, our data indicate that the plasmalemma is the probable primary site of toxin action in N and Tcms maize. Comparison of the effects of toxin on K+ uptake in N and Tcms maize suggests the existence of more than one mode of toxin action: a weak disruptive effect in N and Tcms, and in addition, specific membrane sites in Tcms involved in monovalent ion uptake. Six genotypes in N or Tcms cytoplasm which exhibited different degrees of disease susceptibility in the field showed a corresponding gradation of susceptibility to the toxin when a K+ uptake bioassay was used. This correlation is strong evidence that the sites of toxin action affecting K+ transport have characteristics closely related to cellular factors regulating susceptibility to fungal attack. PMID:16660094

  9. Effects of diltiazem or verapamil on calcium uptake and release from chicken skeletal muscle sarcoplasmic reticulum.

    PubMed

    Paydar, Mehrak Javadi; Pousti, Abbas; Farsam, Hasan; Amanlou, Massoud; Mehr, Shahram Ejtemaei; Dehpour, Ahmad Reza

    2005-11-01

    The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of 2 Ca2+ channel blockers, verapamil and diltiazem, on calcium loading (active Ca2+ uptake) and the following Ca2+ release induced by silver ion (Ag+) and Ca2+ from the membrane of heavy sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) of chicken skeletal muscle. A fluorescent probe technique was employed to determine the calcium movement through the SR. Pretreatment of the medium with diltiazem and verapamil resulted in a significant decrease in the active Ca2+ uptake, with IC50 of about 290 micromol/L for verapamil and 260 micromol/L for diltiazem. Inhibition of Ca2+ uptake was not due to the development of a substantial drug-dependent leak of Ca2+ from the SR. It might, in part, have been mediated by a direct inhibitory effect of these drugs on the Ca2+ ATPase activity of the SR Ca2+ pump. We confirmed that Ca2+ channel blockers, administered after SR Ca2+ loading and before induction of Ca2+ release, caused a dose-dependent inhibition of both Ca2+- and Ag+-induced Ca2+ release rate. Moreover, if Ca2+ channel blockers were administered prior to SR Ca2+ loading, in spite of Ca2+ uptake inhibition the same reduction in Ca2+- and Ag+-induced Ca2+ release rate was seen. We showed that the inhibition of Ag+-induced Ca2+ release by L-channel blockers is more sensitive than Ca2+-induced Ca2+ release inhibition, so the IC50 for Ag+- and Ca2+-induced Ca2+ release was about 100 and 310 micromol/L for verapamil and 79 and 330 micromol/L for diltiazem, respectively. Our results support the evidence that Ca2+ channel blockers affect muscle microsome of chicken skeletal muscle by 2 independent mechanisms: first, reduction of Ca2+ uptake rate and Ca2+-ATPase activity inhibition, and second, inhibition of both Ag+- and Ca2+-induced Ca2+ release by Ca2+ release channels. These findings confirm the direct effect of Ca2+ channel blockers on calcium release channels. Our results suggest that even if the SR is incompletely preloaded with Ca2

  10. Impact of the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidance on medical technology uptake: analysis of the uptake of spinal cord stimulation in England 2008–2012

    PubMed Central

    Vyawahare, Bharati; Hallas, Natalie; Brookes, Morag; Taylor, Rod S; Eldabe, Sam

    2014-01-01

    Background The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) Technology Appraisal Guidance on spinal cord stimulation (SCS) was published in 2008 and updated in 2012 with no change. This guidance recommends SCS as a cost-effective treatment for patients with neuropathic pain. Objective To assess the impact of NICE guidance by comparing SCS uptake in England pre-NICE (2008–2009) and post-NICE (2009–2012) guidance. We also compared the English SCS uptake rate with that of Belgium, the Netherlands, France and Germany. Design SCS implant data for England was obtained from the Hospital Episode Statistics (HES) database and compared with other European countries where comparable data were available. Results The HES data showed small increases in SCS implantation and replacement/revision procedures, and a large increase in SCS trials between 2008 and 2012. The increase in the total number of SCS procedures per million of population in England is driven primarily by revision/replacements and increased trial activity. Marked variability in SCS uptake at both health regions and primary care trust level was observed. Conclusions Despite the positive NICE recommendation for the routine use of SCS, we found no evidence of a significant impact on SCS uptake in England. Rates of SCS implantation in England are lower than many other European countries. PMID:24398364

  11. cAMP-dependent protein kinase phosphorylates and activates nuclear Ca2+-ATPase

    PubMed Central

    Rogue, Patrick J.; Humbert, Jean-Paul; Meyer, Alphonse; Freyermuth, Solange; Krady, Marie-Marthe; Malviya, Anant N.

    1998-01-01

    A Ca2+-pump ATPase, similar to that in the endoplasmic reticulum, has been located on the outer membrane of rat liver nuclei. The effect of cAMP-dependent protein kinase (PKA) on nuclear Ca2+-ATPase (NCA) was studied by using purified rat liver nuclei. Treatment of isolated nuclei with the catalytic unit of PKA resulted in the phosphorylation of a 105-kDa band that was recognized by antibodies specific for sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPase type 2b. Partial purification and immunoblotting confirmed that the 105-kDa protein band phosphorylated by PKA is NCA. The stoichiometry of phosphorylation was 0.76 mol of phosphate incorporated/mol of partially purified enzyme. Measurement of ATP-dependent 45Ca2+ uptake into purified nuclei showed that PKA phosphorylation enhanced the Ca2+-pumping activity of NCA. We show that PKA phosphorylation of Ca2+-ATPase enhances the transport of 10-kDa fluorescent-labeled dextrans across the nuclear envelope. The findings reported in this paper are consistent with the notion that the crosstalk between the cAMP/PKA- and Ca2+-dependent signaling pathways identified at the cytoplasmic level extends to the nucleus. Furthermore, these data support a function for crosstalk in the regulation of calcium-dependent transport across the nuclear envelope. PMID:9689054

  12. Hypoxia and alkalinization inhibit endothelium-derived nitric oxide but not endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factor responses in porcine coronary artery.

    PubMed

    Shimizu, S; Paul, R J

    1999-10-01

    We investigated the mechanisms by which hypoxia and alkalinization inhibit the endothelium-dependent relaxation to Substance P (SP) in porcine coronary artery. In a KCl contracture, the major component of the SP response is endothelium-derived nitric oxide (EDNO), whereas with receptor-mediated 9,11-dideoxy-llalpha, 9alpha-epoxymethanoprostaglandin F(2alpha) (U46619) stimulation, the SP response is dependent on both EDNO and endothelium-derived hyperpolarization factor. Intracellular alkalinization by NH(4)Cl reduced the peak of SP responses when arteries were contracted with KCl, whereas with U46619 stimulation, the peak was little effected but the duration was shortened. In endothelial cell-denuded arteries, alkalinization with NH(4)Cl shifted the sodium nitroprusside concentration-relaxation relations rightward. The effects of NH(4)Cl in SP- and sodium nitroprusside-induced relaxations were attenuated by decreasing extracellular pH (pH(o)) from 7.4 to 7.2, which normalized intracellular pH (pH(i)) to control levels. In contrast, in U46619 contractures, the SP response in the presence of a NO synthase inhibitor was unaffected by NH(4)Cl. Moreover, hypoxia blunted but did not abolish the responses to SP for U46619 contractures; addition of KCl, however, abolished the SP response under hypoxia. Endothelial [Ca(2+)](i) was measured with fura-2 differentially loaded only into endothelial cells on intact arteries. Despite the attenuation of the SP response in KCl contractures by NH(4)Cl or hypoxia, endothelial [Ca(2+)](i) responses were unchanged. Our results suggest that hypoxia and alkalinization inhibit EDNO but not endothelium-derived hyperpolarization factor relaxations through a mechanism(s) not involving endothelial cell [Ca(2+)](i). Inhibition of EDNO relaxation by alkalinization with NH(4)Cl is likely to occur at the level of activation of guanylate cyclase and/or at a step downstream in smooth muscle.

  13. Waveform Analysis Optimization for the 45Ca Beta Decay Experiment

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Whitehead, Ryan; 45Ca Collaboration

    2017-09-01

    The 45Ca experiment is searching for a non-zero Fierz interference term, which would imply a tensor type contribution to the low-energy weak interaction, possibly signaling Beyond-the-Standard-Model (BSM) physics. Beta spectrum measurements are being performed at LANL, using the segmented, large area, Si detectors developed for the Nab and UCNB experiments. 109 events have been recorded, with 38 of the 254 pixels instrumented, during the summers of 2016 and 2017. An important step to extracting the energy spectra is the correction of the waveform for pile-up events. A set of analysis tools has been developed to address this issue. A trapezoidal filter has been characterized and optimized for the experimental waveforms. This filter is primarily used for energy extraction, but, by adjusting certain parameters, it has been modified to identify pile-up events. The efficiency varies with the total energy of the particle and the amount deposited with each detector interaction. Preliminary results of this analysis will be presented.

  14. Translocation of myocardial GLUT-4 and increased glucose uptake through activation of AMPK by AICAR.

    PubMed

    Russell, R R; Bergeron, R; Shulman, G I; Young, L H

    1999-08-01

    Insulin increases glucose uptake through the translocation of GLUT-4 via a pathway mediated by phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K). In contrast, myocardial glucose uptake during ischemia and hypoxia is stimulated by the translocation of GLUT-4 to the surface of cardiac myocytes through a PI3K-independent pathway that has not been characterized. AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) activity is also increased by myocardial ischemia, and we examined whether AMPK stimulates glucose uptake and GLUT-4 translocation. In isolated rat ventricular papillary muscles, 5-aminoimidazole-4-carboxyamide-1-beta-D-ribofuranoside (AICAR), an activator of AMPK, as well as cyanide-induced chemical hypoxia and insulin, increased 2-[(3)H]deoxyglucose uptake two- to threefold. Wortmannin, a PI3K inhibitor, did not affect either the AICAR- or the cyanide-stimulated increase in deoxyglucose uptake but eliminated the insulin-stimulated increase in deoxyglucose uptake. Immunofluorescence studies demonstrated translocation of GLUT-4 to the myocyte sarcolemma in response to stimulation with AICAR, cyanide, or insulin. Preincubation of papillary muscles with the kinase inhibitor iodotubercidin or adenine 9-beta-D-arabinofuranoside (araA), a precursor of araATP (a competitive inhibitor of AMPK), decreased AICAR- and cyanide-stimulated glucose uptake but did not affect basal or insulin-stimulated glucose uptake. In vivo infusion of AICAR caused myocardial AMPK activation and GLUT-4 translocation in the rat. We conclude that AMPK activation increases cardiac muscle glucose uptake through translocation of GLUT-4 via a pathway that is independent of PI3K. These findings suggest that AMPK activation may be important in ischemia-induced translocation of GLUT-4 in the heart.

  15. cGMP stimulates bile acid-independent bile formation and biliary bicarbonate excretion.

    PubMed

    Myers, N C; Grune, S; Jameson, H L; Sawkat-Anwer, M

    1996-03-01

    The effect of guanosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate (cGMP) on hepatic bile formation was studied in isolated perfused rat livers and rat hepatocytes. Studies in isolated perfused rat livers showed that infusion of 8-bromoguanosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate (8-BrcGMP, 3 micromol/min or 100 microM) 1) increased bile flow without affecting biliary excretion of simultaneously infused taurocholate, 2) increased biliary concentration and excretion of HCO3(-) but did not affect biliary excretion of glutathione, and 3) increased net perfusate H+ efflux without affecting hepatic O2 uptake. Studies in isolated rat hepatocytes showed that 1) 8-BrcGMP increased intracellular pH in the presence (but not in the absence) of extracellular HCO-3, and effect inhibited by 4,4' -diisothiocyanostilbene-2,2'-disulfonic acid and Na+ replacement, 2) 8-BrcGMP did not affect taurocholate uptake and intracellular [Ca2+], and 3) bile acids, like ursodeoxycholate and cholate, did not increase cellular cGMP. Taken together, these results indicate that cGMP stimulates bile acid-independent bile formation, in part by stimulating biliary HCO3- excretion. cGMP may increase HCO3- excretion by stimulating sinusoidal Na+ - HCO3- cotransport, but not Na+/H+ exchange. cGMP, unlike adenosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate, may not regulate hepatic taurocholate transport, and bile acid-induced HCO3- rich choleresis may not be mediated via cGMP.

  16. The role of receptor topology in the vitamin D3 uptake and Ca{sup 2+} response systems

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Morrill, Gene A., E-mail: gene.morrill@einstein.yu.edu; Kostellow, Adele B.; Gupta, Raj K.

    The steroid hormone, vitamin D{sub 3}, regulates gene transcription via at least two receptors and initiates putative rapid response systems at the plasma membrane. The vitamin D receptor (VDR) binds vitamin D{sub 3} and a second receptor, importin-4, imports the VDR-vitamin D{sub 3} complex into the nucleus via nuclear pores. Here we present evidence that the Homo sapiens VDR homodimer contains two transmembrane (TM) helices ({sup 327}E – D{sup 342}), two TM “half-helix” ({sup 264}K − N{sup 276}), one or more large channels, and 16 cholesterol binding (CRAC/CARC) domains. The importin-4 monomer exhibits 3 pore-lining regions ({sup 226}E – L{supmore » 251}; {sup 768}V – G{sup 783}; {sup 876}S – A{sup 891}) and 16 CRAC/CARC domains. The MEMSAT algorithm indicates that VDR and importin-4 may not be restricted to cytoplasm and nucleus. VDR homodimer TM helix-topology predicts insertion into the plasma membrane, with two 84 residue C-terminal regions being extracellular. Similarly, MEMSAT predicts importin-4 insertion into the plasma membrane with 226 residue extracellular N-terminal regions and 96 residue C-terminal extracellular loops; with the pore-lining regions contributing gated Ca{sup 2+} channels. The PoreWalker algorithm indicates that, of the 427 residues in each VDR monomer, 91 line the largest channel, including two vitamin D{sub 3} binding sites and residues from both the TM helix and “half-helix”. Cholesterol-binding domains also extend into the channel within the ligand binding region. Programmed changes in bound cholesterol may regulate both membrane Ca{sup 2+} response systems and vitamin D{sub 3} uptake as well as receptor internalization by the endomembrane system culminating in uptake of the vitamin D{sub 3}-VDR-importin-4 complex into the nucleus.« less

  17. The effect of methylglyoxal-bis(guanylhydrazone) on mitochondrial Ca(2+) fluxes.

    PubMed

    Salvi, Mauro; Toninello, Antonio

    2002-01-15

    Methylglyoxal-bis(guanylhydrazone) (MGBG) induces a dose-dependent inhibition of the electrophoretic Ca(2+) uptake by rat liver mitochondria (RLM) without affecting the electrical membrane potential. MGBG is also able to inhibit the electroneutral Ca(2+) release from mitochondria. These effects result in a progressive increase of Ca(2+) level in suspending medium indicating that Ca(2+) uptake is inhibited at higher extent than Ca(2+) efflux. Spermine instead, induces a lowering of external Ca(2+) concentration. This action is reversed by MGBG which again raises the external Ca(2+) concentration then in the absence of spermine, though at a lower extent. The mechanism of MGBG effects and their implications on energy metabolism are discussed.

  18. SDF7, a group of Scoparia dulcis Linn. derived flavonoid compounds, stimulates glucose uptake and regulates adipocytokines in 3T3-F442a adipocytes.

    PubMed

    Beh, Joo Ee; Khoo, Li Teng; Latip, Jalifah; Abdullah, Mohd Paud; Alitheen, Noorjahan Baru Mohamed; Adam, Zainah; Ismail, Amin; Hamid, Muhajir

    2013-10-28

    Adipocytes are major tissues involved in glucose uptake second to skeletal muscle and act as the main adipocytokines mediator that regulates glucose uptake mechanism and cellular differentiation. The objective of this study were to examine the effect of the SDF7, which is a fraction consists of four flavonoid compounds (quercetin: p-coumaric acid: luteolin: apigenin=8: 26: 1: 3) from Scoparia dulcis Linn., on stimulating the downstream components of insulin signalling and the adipocytokines expression on different cellular fractions of 3T3-F442a adipocytes. Morphology and lipid accumulation of differentiated 3T3-F442a adipocytes by 100 nM insulin treated with different concentrations of SDF7 and rosiglitazone were examined followed by the evaluation of glucose uptake activity expressions of insulin signalling downstream components (IRS-1, PI3-kinase, PKB, PKC, TC10 and GLUT4) from four cellular fractions (plasma membrane, cytosol, high density microsome and low density microsome). Next, the expression level of adipocytokines (TNF-α, adiponectin and leptin) and immunoblotting of treated 3T3-F442 adipocytes was determined at 30 min and 480 min. Glucose transporter 4 (GLUT4) translocation of 3T3-F442a adipocytes membrane was also determined. Lastly, mRNA expression of adiponectin and PPAR-γ of 3T3-F442a adipocytes were induced and compared with basal concentration. It was found that SDF7 was able to induce adipocytes differentiation with great extends of morphological changes, lipid synthesis and lipid stimulation in vitro. SDF7 stimulation of glucose transport on 3T3-F442a adipocytes are found to be dose independent, time-dependent and plasma membrane GLUT4 expression-dependent. Moreover, SDF7 are observed to be able to suppress TNF-α and leptin expressions that were mediated by 3T3-F442a adipocytes, while stimulated adiponectin secretion on the cells. There was a significant expression (p<0.01) of protein kinase C and small G protein TC10 on 3T3-F442a adipocytes

  19. Role of a guanine nucleotide-binding protein in. cap alpha. /sub 1/-adrenergic receptor-mediated Ca/sup 2 +/ mobilization in DDT/sub 1/ MF-2 cells

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Cornett, L.E.; Norris, J.S.

    1987-11-01

    In this study the mechanisms involved in ..cap alpha../sub 1/-adrenergic receptor-mediated Ca/sup 2 +/ mobilization at the level of the plasma membrane were investigated. Stimulation of /sup 45/Ca/sup 2 +/ efflux from saponin-permeabilized DDT/sub 1/ MF-2 cells was observed with the addition of either the ..cap alpha../sub 1/-adrenergic agonist phenylephrine and guanosine-5'-triphosphate or the nonhydrolyzable guanine nucleotide guanylyl-imidodiphosphate. In the presence of (/sup 32/P) NAD, pertussis toxin was found to catalyze ADP-ribosylation of a M/sub r/ = 40,500 (n = 8) peptide in membranes prepared from DDT/sub 1/, MF-2 cells, possibly the ..cap alpha..-subunit of N/sub i/. However, stimulation ofmore » unidirectional /sup 45/Ca/sup 2 +/ efflux by phenylephrine was not affected by previous treatment of cells with 100 ng/ml pertussis toxin. These data suggest that the putative guanine nucleotide-binding protein which couples the ..cap alpha../sub 1/-adrenergic receptor to Ca/sup 2 +/ mobilization in DDT/sub 1/ MF-2 cells is not a pertussis toxin substrate and may possibly be an additional member of guanine nucleotide binding protein family.« less

  20. Cerebral blood flow modulation by Basal forebrain or whisker stimulation can occur independently of large cytosolic Ca2+ signaling in astrocytes.

    PubMed

    Takata, Norio; Nagai, Terumi; Ozawa, Katsuya; Oe, Yuki; Mikoshiba, Katsuhiko; Hirase, Hajime

    2013-01-01

    We report that a brief electrical stimulation of the nucleus basalis of Meynert (NBM), the primary source of cholinergic projection to the cerebral cortex, induces a biphasic cerebral cortical blood flow (CBF) response in the somatosensory cortex of C57BL/6J mice. This CBF response, measured by laser Doppler flowmetry, was attenuated by the muscarinic type acetylcholine receptor antagonist atropine, suggesting a possible involvement of astrocytes in this type of CBF modulation. However, we find that IP3R2 knockout mice, which lack cytosolic Ca2+ surges in astrocytes, show similar CBF changes. Moreover, whisker stimulation resulted in similar degrees of CBF increase in IP3R2 knockout mice and the background strain C57BL/6J. Our results show that neural activity-driven CBF modulation could occur without large cytosolic increases of Ca2+ in astrocytes.

  1. The mitochondrial antioxidants MitoE(2) and MitoQ(10) increase mitochondrial Ca(2+) load upon cell stimulation by inhibiting Ca(2+) efflux from the organelle.

    PubMed

    Leo, Sara; Szabadkai, György; Rizzuto, Rosario

    2008-12-01

    Mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS) production is recognized as a major pathogenic event in a number of human diseases, and mitochondrial scavenging of ROS appears a promising therapeutic approach. Recently, two mitochondrial antioxidants have been developed; conjugating alpha-tocopherol and the ubiquinol moiety of coenzyme Q to the lipophilic triphenylphosphonium cation (TPP+), denominated MitoE(2) and MitoQ(10), respectively. We have investigated the effect of these compounds on mitochondrial Ca(2+) homeostasis, which controls processes as diverse as activation of mitochondrial dehydrogenases and pro-apoptotic morphological changes of the organelle. We demonstrate that treatment of HeLa cells with both MitoE(2) and MitoQ(10) induces (albeit with different efficacy) a major enhancement of the increase in matrix Ca(2+) concentration triggered by cell stimulation with the inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate-generating agonist histamine. The effect is a result of the inhibition of Ca(2+) efflux from the organelle and depends on the TPP+ moiety of these compounds. Overall, the data identify an effect independent of their antioxidant activity, that on the one hand may be useful in addressing disorders in which mitochondrial Ca(2+) handling is impaired (e.g., mitochondrial diseases) and on the other may favor mitochondrial Ca(2+) overload and thus increase cell sensitivity to apoptosis (thus possibly counteracting the benefits of the antioxidant activity).

  2. The Impact of pH and Calcium on the Uptake of Fluoride by Tea Plants (Camellia sinensis L.)

    PubMed Central

    RUAN, JIANYUN; MA, LIFENG; SHI, YUANZHI; HAN, WENYAN

    2004-01-01

    • Background and Aims Tea plants (Camellia sinensis L.) accumulate large amounts of fluoride (F) from soils containing normal F concentrations. The present experiments examined the effects of pH and Ca on F uptake by this accumulating plant species. • Methods The effect of pH was assessed in two experiments, one using uptake solutions with different pHs, and the other using lime, as CaO, applied to the soil. The effect of Ca was examined by analysing F concentrations in plants supplied with varying amounts of Ca, as Ca(NO3)2, either in uptake solutions or through the soil. • Key results F uptake was highest at solution pH 5·5, and significantly lower at pH 4·0. In the soil experiment, leaf F decreased linearly with the amounts of lime, which raised the soil pH progressively from 4·32 to 4·91, 5·43, 5·89 and, finally, 6·55. Liming increased the water‐soluble F content of the soil. Including Ca in the uptake solution or adding Ca to soil significantly decreased leaf F concentrations. The distribution pattern of F in tea plants was not altered by Ca treatment, with most F being allocated to leaves. The activity of F– in the uptake solution was unaffected and water‐soluble F in the soil was sometimes increased by added Ca. • Conclusions F uptake by tea plants, which are inherently able to accumulate large quantities of F, was affected both by pH and by Ca levels in the medium. The reduced F uptake following Ca application appeared not to be due simply to the precipitation of CaF2 in solution and soil or to the complexing of Ca and F in roots, although these factors cannot be dismissed. It was more likely due to the effect of Ca on the properties of cell wall or membrane permeability in the solution experiments, and to alteration of F speciations and their quantities in soil solutions following Ca application. PMID:14644914

  3. Effects of fat on glucose uptake and utilization in patients with non-insulin-dependent diabetes.

    PubMed Central

    Boden, G; Chen, X

    1995-01-01

    It was the aim of this study to determine whether FFA inhibit insulin-stimulated whole body glucose uptake and utilization in patients with non-insulin-dependent diabetes. We performed five types of isoglycemic (approximately 11mM) clamps: (a) with insulin; (b) with insulin plus fat/heparin; (c) with insulin plus glycerol; (d) with saline; (e) with saline plus fat/heparin and two types of euglycemic (approximately 5mM) clamps: (a) with insulin; (b) with insulin plus fat/heparin. During these studies, we determined rates of glucose uptake, glycolysis (both with 3[3H] glucose), glycogen synthesis (determined as glucose uptake minus glycolysis), carbohydrate oxidation (by indirect calorimetry) and nonoxidative glycolysis (determined as glycolysis minus carbohydrate oxidation). Fat/heparin infusion did not affect basal glucose uptake, but inhibited total stimulated (insulin stimulated plus basal) glucose uptake by 40-50% in isoglycemic and in euglycemic patients at plasma FFA concentration of approximately 950 and approximately 550 microM, respectively. In isoglycemic patients, the 40-50% inhibition of total stimulated glucose uptake was due to near complete inhibition of the insulin-stimulated part of glucose uptake. Proportional inhibition of glucose uptake, glycogen synthesis, and glycolysis suggested a major FFA-mediated defect involving glucose transport and/or phosphorylation. In summary, fat produced proportional inhibitions of insulin-stimulated glucose uptake and of intracellular glucose utilization. We conclude, that physiologically elevated levels of FFa could potentially be responsible for a large part of the peripheral insulin resistance in patients with non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus. PMID:7657800

  4. Effects of fat on glucose uptake and utilization in patients with non-insulin-dependent diabetes.

    PubMed

    Boden, G; Chen, X

    1995-09-01

    It was the aim of this study to determine whether FFA inhibit insulin-stimulated whole body glucose uptake and utilization in patients with non-insulin-dependent diabetes. We performed five types of isoglycemic (approximately 11mM) clamps: (a) with insulin; (b) with insulin plus fat/heparin; (c) with insulin plus glycerol; (d) with saline; (e) with saline plus fat/heparin and two types of euglycemic (approximately 5mM) clamps: (a) with insulin; (b) with insulin plus fat/heparin. During these studies, we determined rates of glucose uptake, glycolysis (both with 3[3H] glucose), glycogen synthesis (determined as glucose uptake minus glycolysis), carbohydrate oxidation (by indirect calorimetry) and nonoxidative glycolysis (determined as glycolysis minus carbohydrate oxidation). Fat/heparin infusion did not affect basal glucose uptake, but inhibited total stimulated (insulin stimulated plus basal) glucose uptake by 40-50% in isoglycemic and in euglycemic patients at plasma FFA concentration of approximately 950 and approximately 550 microM, respectively. In isoglycemic patients, the 40-50% inhibition of total stimulated glucose uptake was due to near complete inhibition of the insulin-stimulated part of glucose uptake. Proportional inhibition of glucose uptake, glycogen synthesis, and glycolysis suggested a major FFA-mediated defect involving glucose transport and/or phosphorylation. In summary, fat produced proportional inhibitions of insulin-stimulated glucose uptake and of intracellular glucose utilization. We conclude, that physiologically elevated levels of FFa could potentially be responsible for a large part of the peripheral insulin resistance in patients with non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus.

  5. [Transamination in the mechanism of protection of mitochondria from Ca2+ overload].

    PubMed

    Saakian, G G; Saakian, I R

    2008-01-01

    A high sensitivity of the succinate-dependent uptake of Ca2+ by mitochondria to (1) the transamination (TA) substrates glutamate (GLU) and alpha-ketoglutarate (KGL) and (2) the inhibitor of TA aminooxyacetate (AOA) was revealed. The effect of the TA substrates on Ca2+ uptake depends on the ratio (1:10 mM) of their concentrations: 1 mM GLU activates and 10 mM KGL decreases this activation by 35-46%, whereas AOA suppresses the Ca2+ capacity by 60% and the inhibitor of succinate oxidation malonate, by 80-90%. A similarity in the limiting action of KGL and phosphoenolpyruvate (PEP), two sources of oxaloacetate (OAA) and GTP, on Ca2+ capacity was revealed. The differences in the effects of KGL and GLU and the similarity in the effects of KGL and PEP on succinate oxidation are explained by the effect of OAA and GTP on this oxidation. The alternating inflow of OAA in coupled processes of TA, pyruvate cycle, and tricarboxylic acids cycle provides the reciprocal activation and cyclic recurrence of Ca2+ uptake, i. e., protection from the chronic exhausting activation of Ca2+-regulated dehydrogenases, the overload of Ca2+-outgoing channels, and the excessive production of free radicals in mitochondria. The reciprocal regulation of Ca2+ uptake by TA is considered as a mechanism of the maintenance of Ca2+ homeostasis and protection of mitochondria against Ca2+ overload.

  6. Two chalcones, 4-hydroxyderricin and xanthoangelol, stimulate GLUT4-dependent glucose uptake through the LKB1/AMP-activated protein kinase signaling pathway in 3T3-L1 adipocytes.

    PubMed

    Ohta, Mitsuhiro; Fujinami, Aya; Kobayashi, Norihiro; Amano, Akiko; Ishigami, Akihito; Tokuda, Harukuni; Suzuki, Nobutaka; Ito, Fumitake; Mori, Taisuke; Sawada, Morio; Iwasa, Koichi; Kitawaki, Jo; Ohnishi, Katsunori; Tsujikawa, Muneo; Obayashi, Hiroshi

    2015-07-01

    4-Hydroxyderricin (4HD) and xanthoangelol (XAG) are major components of n-hexane/ethyl acetate (5:1) extract of the yellow-colored stem juice of Angelica keiskei. 4-Hydroxyderricin and XAG have been reported to increase glucose transporter 4 (GLUT4)-dependent glucose uptake in 3T3-L1 adipocytes, but the detailed mechanism of this phenomenon remains unknown. This present study was aimed at clarifying the detailed mechanism by which 4HD and XAG increase GLUT4-dependent glucose uptake in 3T3-L1 adipocytes. Both 4HD and XAG increased glucose uptake and GLUT4 translocation to the plasma membrane. 4-Hydroxyderricin and XAG also stimulated the phosphorylation of 5' adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and its downstream target acetyl-CoA carboxylase. In addition, phosphorylation of liver kinase B1 (LKB1), which acts upstream of AMPK, was also increased by 4HD and XAG treatment. Small interfering RNA knockdown of LKB1 attenuated 4HD- and XAG-stimulated AMPK phosphorylation and suppressed glucose uptake. These findings demonstrate that 4HD and XAG can increase GLUT4-dependent glucose uptake through the LKB1/AMPK signaling pathway in 3T3-L1 adipocytes. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  7. Subpopulation of store-operated Ca2+ channels regulate Ca2+-induced Ca2+ release in non-excitable cells.

    PubMed

    Yao, Jian; Li, Qin; Chen, Jin; Muallem, Shmuel

    2004-05-14

    Ca2+-induced Ca2+ release (CICR) is a well characterized activity in skeletal and cardiac muscles mediated by the ryanodine receptors. The present study demonstrates CICR in the non-excitable parotid acinar cells, which resembles the mechanism described in cardiac myocytes. Partial depletion of internal Ca2+ stores leads to a minimal activation of Ca2+ influx. Ca2+ influx through this pathway results in an explosive mobilization of Ca2+ from the majority of the stores by CICR. Thus, stimulation of parotid acinar cells in Ca2+ -free medium with 0.5 microm carbachol releases approximately 5% of the Ca2+ mobilizable by 1 mm carbachol. Addition of external Ca2+ induced the same Ca2+ release observed in maximally stimulated cells. Similar results were obtained by a short treatment with 2.5-10 microm cyclopiazonic acid, an inhibitor of the sarco/endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ ATPase pump. The Ca2+ release induced by the addition of external Ca2+ was largely independent of IP(3)Rs because it was reduced by only approximately 30% by the inhibition of the inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptors with caffeine or heparin. Measurements of Ca2+ -activated outward current and [Ca2+](i) suggested that most CICR triggered by Ca2+ influx occurred away from the plasma membrane. Measurement of the response to several concentrations of cyclopiazonic acid revealed that Ca2+ influx that regulates CICR is associated with a selective portion of the internal Ca2+ pool. The minimal activation of Ca2+ influx by partial store depletion was confirmed by the measurement of Mn2+ influx. Inhibition of Ca2+ influx with SKF96365 or 2-aminoethoxydiphenyl borate prevented activation of CICR observed on addition of external Ca2+. These findings provide evidence for activation of CICR by Ca2+ influx in non-excitable cells, demonstrate a previously unrecognized role for Ca2+ influx in triggering CICR, and indicate that CICR in non-excitable cells resembles CICR in cardiac myocytes with the exception that in

  8. Effects of Sodium Chloride, Potassium Chloride and Calcium Chloride on the Formation of α-Dicarbonyl Compounds, Furfurals and Development of Browning in Cookies during Baking.

    PubMed

    Kocadağlı, Tolgahan; Gökmen, Vural

    2016-10-02

    Effect of NaCl, KCl, CaCl2, NaHCO3, and NH4HCO3 on the formation of glucosone, 1-deoxyglucosone, 3-deoxyglucosone, glyoxal, methylglyoxal, diacetyl, 5-hydroxymethyl-2-furfural, 2-furfural and browning were investigated in cookies. Presence of 1.5% NaCl, 1% KCl, and 1% CaCl2 on flour basis had no effect on α-dicarbonyl compounds, except 1-deoxyglucosone increased in the presence of KCl and CaCl2. The increase in 5-hydroxymethyl-2-furfural formation in the presence of NaCl, KCl, and CaCl2 did not relate to 3-deoxyglucosone formation and pH changes. NaCl, KCl, and CaCl2 increased browning in cookies. Model reaction systems indicated that NaCl, KCl, and CaCl2 enhance browning by increasing furfurals in caramelization. NaCl, KCl, and CaCl2 decreased browning intensity in heated glucose-glycine system. Usage of CaCl2 in cookies may considerably increase furfurals but not α-dicarbonyl compounds. Sodium reduction can be obtained by replacement with potassium without sacrificing the desired consequences of caramelization in sugar rich bakeries.

  9. Sodium-dependent magnesium uptake by ferret red cells.

    PubMed Central

    Flatman, P W; Smith, L M

    1991-01-01

    1. Magnesium uptake can be measured in ferret red cells incubated in media containing more than 1 mM-magnesium. Uptake is substantially increased if the sodium concentration in the medium is reduced. 2. Magnesium uptake is half-maximally activated by 0.37 mM-external magnesium when the external sodium concentration is 5 mM. Increasing the external sodium concentration increases the magnesium concentration needed to activate the system. 3. Magnesium uptake is increased by reducing the external sodium concentration. Uptake is half-maximum at sodium concentrations of 17, 22 and 62 nM when the external magnesium concentrations are 2, 5 and 10 mM respectively. 4. Replacement of external sodium with choline does not affect the membrane potential of ferret red cells over a 45 min period. 5. Magnesium uptake from media containing 5 mM-sodium is inhibited by amiloride, quinidine and imipramine. It is not affected by ouabain or bumetanide. Vanadate stimulates magnesium uptake but has no effect on magnesium efflux. 6. When cell ATP content is reduced to 19 mumol (1 cell)-1 by incubating cells for 3 h with 2-deoxyglucose, magnesium uptake falls by 50% in the presence of 5 mM-sodium and is completely abolished in the presence of 145 mM-sodium. Some of the inhibition may be due to the increase in intracellular ionized magnesium concentration ([Mg2+]i) from 0.7 to 1.0 mM which occurs under these conditions. 7. Magnesium uptake can be driven against a substantial electrochemical gradient if the external sodium concentration is reduced sufficiently. 8. These findings are discussed in terms of several possible models for magnesium transport. It is concluded that the majority of magnesium uptake observed in low-sodium media is via sodium-magnesium antiport. A small portion of uptake is through a parallel leak pathway. It is believed that the antiport is responsible for maintaining [Mg2+]i below electrochemical equilibrium in these cells at physiological external sodium concentration

  10. Glutamate release and uptake processes are altered in a new mouse model of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.

    PubMed

    Grigoriev, V V; Efimova, A D; Ustyugov, A A; Shevchenko, V P; Bachurin, S O; Myasoedov, N F

    2016-05-01

    In this paper, we showed that in the cortex of mice expressing an abberant form of FUS protein that model amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), the processes of KCl-induced and basal [(3)H]glutamate release and uptake are altered at the presymptomatic stage as compared to the non-transgenic littermates. The change in these three parameters in transgenic animals causes excitotoxicity, which, in turn, may lead to massive loss of motor neurons and the onset of ALS symptoms.

  11. Inositol uptake in rat aorta

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Rapoport, R.M.; Van Gorp, C.; Chang, Ki-Churl

    1990-01-01

    {sup 3}H-inositol uptake into deendothelialized aorta was linear for at least 2 h and was composed of both a saturable, Na{sup +}-dependent, and a nonsaturable, Na{sup +}-independent component. The Na{sup +}-dependent component of inositol uptake had a K{sub m} of 50 {mu}M and a V{sub max} of 289 pmol/mg prot/h. Exposure to LiCl, ouabain, or Ca{sup 2+} - free Krebs-Ringer bicarbonate solution inhibited uptake. Metabolic poisoning with dinitrophenol, as well as incubation with phloretin, an inhibitor of carrier-mediated hexose transport, also inhibited uptake. Exposure to norepinephrine decreased inositol uptake, while phorbol myristate acetate was without effect. Isobutylmethylxanthine significantly increased inositolmore » uptake, while the increased uptake due to dibutyryl cyclic AMP and forskolin were not statistically significant. Sodium nitroprusside, and activator of guanylate cyclase, and 8-bromo cyclic GMP, were without effect on uptake, as was methylene blue, an inhibitor of guanylate cyclase. Inositol uptake into the aorta was increased when the endothelium was allowed to remain intact, although this effect was likely due to uptake in both the endothelial and smooth muscle cells.« less

  12. Vanadate inhibition of stomatal opening in epidermal peels of Commelina communis

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Schwartz, A.; Illan, N.; Assmann, S.M.

    There are conflicting reports on the effectiveness of the plasmamembrane H{sup +} ATPase inhibitor, vanadate, in inhibiting stomatal opening. We have observed that vanadate inhibited light-stimulated stomatal opening in epidermal peels of Commelina communis only at KCl concentrations lower than 50 mM. When KCl was replaced with n-methylglucamine chloride, vanadate was still ineffective at high salt concentrations. However, in the absence of Cl{sup {minus}}, when KOH was buffered with V{sub 2}O{sub 5}, vanadate inhibition of stomatal opening occurred even at high salt concentrations (K{sup +} = 70 mM). An inhibitor of anion uptake, anthracene-9-carboxylic acid (200 {mu}M), partially prevented vanadatemore » inhibition of stomatal opening; other inhibitors (DIDS, SITS, Zn{sup 2+}) were ineffective. These results suggest that inhibition of stomatal opening by vanadate requires its entry into guard cells through an anion uptake system. Decreasing vanadate inhibition at high Cl{sup {minus}}/vanadate ratios may result from competition between vanadate and Cl{sup {minus}} for a common uptake mechanism.« less

  13. Catecholamine exocytosis during low frequency stimulation in mouse adrenal chromaffin cells is primarily asynchronous and controlled by the novel mechanism of Ca2+ syntilla suppression

    PubMed Central

    Lefkowitz, Jason J; DeCrescenzo, Valerie; Duan, Kailai; Bellve, Karl D; Fogarty, Kevin E; Walsh, John V; ZhuGe, Ronghua

    2014-01-01

    Adrenal chromaffin cells (ACCs), stimulated by the splanchnic nerve, generate action potentials (APs) at a frequency near 0.5 Hz in the resting physiological state, at times described as ‘rest and digest’. How such low frequency stimulation in turn elicits sufficient catecholamine exocytosis to set basal sympathetic tone is not readily explained by the classical mechanism of stimulus–secretion coupling, where exocytosis is synchronized to AP-induced Ca2+ influx. By using simulated action potentials (sAPs) at 0.5 Hz in isolated patch-clamped mouse ACCs, we show here that less than 10% of all catecholaminergic exocytosis, measured by carbon fibre amperometry, is synchronized to an AP. The asynchronous phase, the dominant phase, of exocytosis does not require Ca2+ influx. Furthermore, increased asynchronous exocytosis is accompanied by an AP-dependent decrease in frequency of Ca2+ syntillas (i.e. transient, focal Ca2+ release from internal stores) and is ryanodine sensitive. We propose a mechanism of disinhibition, wherein APs suppress Ca2+ syntillas, which themselves inhibit exocytosis as they do in the case of spontaneous catecholaminergic exocytosis. PMID:25128575

  14. Integrated Data Collection Analysis (IDCA) program--KClO 4/Dodecane Mixture

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Sandstrom, Mary M.; Brown, Geoffrey W.; Preston, Daniel N.

    The Integrated Data Collection Analysis (IDCA) program is conducting a proficiency study for Small- Scale Safety and Thermal (SSST) testing of homemade explosives (HMEs). Described here are the results for impact, friction, electrostatic discharge, and differential scanning calorimetry analysis of a mixture of KClO 4 and dodecane—KClO 4/dodecane mixture. This material was selected because of the challenge of performing SSST testing of a mixture of solid and liquid materials. The mixture was found to: 1) be less sensitive to impact than RDX, and PETN, 2) less sensitive to friction than RDX and PETN, and 3) less sensitive to spark thanmore » RDX and PETN. The thermal analysis showed little or no exothermic features suggesting that the dodecane volatilized at low temperatures. A prominent endothermic feature was observed and assigned to a phase transition of KClO 4. This effort, funded by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), ultimately will put the issues of safe handling of these materials in perspective with standard military explosives. The study is adding SSST testing results for a broad suite of different HMEs to the literature. Ultimately the study has the potential to suggest new guidelines and methods and possibly establish the SSST testing accuracies needed to develop safe handling practices for HMEs. Each participating testing laboratory uses identical test materials and preparation methods wherever possible. Note, however, the test procedures differ among the laboratories. The results are compared among the laboratories and then compared to historical data from various sources. The testing performers involved for the KClO 4/dodecane mixture are Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL), Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL), Indian Head Division, Naval Surface Warfare Center, (NSWC IHD), and Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL/RXQL). These tests are conducted as a proficiency study in order to establish some consistency in test protocols

  15. KCl-Induced High-Temperature Corrosion Behavior of HVAF-Sprayed Ni-Based Coatings in Ambient Air

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Jafari, Reza; Sadeghimeresht, Esmaeil; Farahani, Taghi Shahrabi; Huhtakangas, Matti; Markocsan, Nicolaie; Joshi, Shrikant

    2018-02-01

    KCl-induced high-temperature corrosion behavior of four HVAF-sprayed Ni-based coatings (Ni21Cr, Ni5Al, Ni21Cr7Al1Y and Ni21Cr9Mo) under KCl deposit has been investigated in ambient air at 600 °C up to 168 h. The coatings were deposited onto 16Mo3 steel—a widely used boiler tube material. Uncoated substrate, 304L and Sanicro 25 were used as reference materials in the test environment. SEM/EDS and XRD techniques were utilized to characterize the as-sprayed and exposed samples. The results showed that the small addition of KCl significantly accelerated degradation to the coatings. All coatings provided better corrosion resistance compared to the reference materials. The alumina-forming Ni5Al coating under KCl deposit was capable of forming a more protective oxide scale compared to the chromia-forming coatings as penetration of Cl through diffusion paths was hindered. Both active corrosion and chromate formation mechanisms were found to be responsible for the corrosion damages. The corrosion resistance of the coatings based on the microstructure analysis and kinetics had the following ranking (from the best to worst): Ni5Al > Ni21Cr > Ni21Cr7Al1Y > Ni21Cr9Mo.

  16. Influence of partial replacement of NaCl with KCl on profiles of volatile compounds in dry-cured bacon during processing.

    PubMed

    Wu, Haizhou; Zhuang, Hong; Zhang, Yingyang; Tang, Jing; Yu, Xiang; Long, Men; Wang, Jiamei; Zhang, Jianhao

    2015-04-01

    This study investigated the influence of partial substitution of NaCl with KCl on the formation of volatile compounds in bacons during processing using a purge and trap dynamic headspace GC/MS system. Three substitutions were 0% KCl (I), 40% KCl (II), and 70% KCl (III). The profiles of the volatile compounds significantly changed during processing, particularly during the drying/ripening. At the end of process, the bacons from substitution III formed significantly higher levels of lipid-derived volatiles, such as straight chain aldehydes, hydrocarbons than bacons from substitution I and II, whereas the latter formed higher levels of volatiles from amino acid degradation such as 3-methylbutanal. There were very few differences in volatile formation between 0% and 40% KCl application. These results suggest that K(+) substitution of Na(+) by more than 40% may significantly change profiles of volatiles in finished dry-cured bacons and therefore would result in changes in the product aroma and/or flavour. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  17. Enhancement of glucose uptake in skeletal muscle L6 cells and insulin secretion in pancreatic hamster-insulinoma-transfected cells by application of non-thermal plasma jet

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kumar, Naresh; Kaushik, Nagendra K.; Park, Gyungsoon; Choi, Eun H.; Uhm, Han S.

    2013-11-01

    Type-II diabetes Mellitus is characterized by defects in insulin action on peripheral tissues, such as skeletal muscle, adipose tissue, and liver and pancreatic beta cells. Since the skeletal muscle accounts for approximately 75% of insulin-stimulated glucose-uptake in our body, impaired insulin secretion from defected beta cell plays a major role in the afflicted glucose homoeostasis. It was shown that the intracellular reactive oxygen species and nitric oxide level was increased by non-thermal-plasma treatment in ambient air. These increased intracellular reactive species may enhance glucose uptake and insulin secretion through the activation of intracellular calcium (Ca+) and cAMP production.

  18. Solubility of NaCl and KCl in aqueous HCl from 20 to 85°C

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Potter, Robert W.; Clynne, Michael A.

    1980-01-01

    The solubilities of NaCl and KCl in aqueous HCl solutions were determined from 20 to 85°C at concentrations ranging from 0 to 20 g of HCl/100 g of solution. Equations are given that describe the solubilities over the range of conditions studied. For NaCl and KCl respectively measured solubilities show an average deviation from these equations of ??0.10 and ??0.08 g/100 g of saturated solution.

  19. Arrhythmia causes lipid accumulation and reduced glucose uptake.

    PubMed

    Lenski, Matthias; Schleider, Gregor; Kohlhaas, Michael; Adrian, Lucas; Adam, Oliver; Tian, Qinghai; Kaestner, Lars; Lipp, Peter; Lehrke, Michael; Maack, Christoph; Böhm, Michael; Laufs, Ulrich

    2015-01-01

    Atrial fibrillation (AF) is characterized by irregular contractions of atrial cardiomyocytes and increased energy demand. The aim of this study was to characterize the influence of arrhythmia on glucose and fatty acid (FA) metabolism in cardiomyocytes, mice and human left atrial myocardium. Compared to regular pacing, irregular (pseudo-random variation at the same number of contractions/min) pacing of neonatal rat cardiomyocytes induced shorter action potential durations and effective refractory periods and increased diastolic [Ca(2+)]c. This was associated with the activation of Ca(2+)/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII) and AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK). Membrane expression of fatty acid translocase (FAT/CD36) and (14)C-palmitic acid uptake were augmented while membrane expression of glucose transporter subtype 4 (GLUT-4) as well as (3)H-glucose uptake were reduced. Inhibition of AMPK and CaMKII prevented these arrhythmia-induced metabolic changes. Similar alterations of FA metabolism were observed in a transgenic mouse model (RacET) for spontaneous AF. Consistent with these findings samples of left atrial myocardium of patients with AF compared to matched samples of patients with sinus rhythm showed up-regulation of CaMKII and AMPK and increased membrane expression of FAT/CD36, resulting in lipid accumulation. These changes of FA metabolism were accompanied by decreased membrane expression of GLUT-4, increased glycogen content and increased expression of the pro-apoptotic protein bax. Irregular pacing of cardiomyocytes increases diastolic [Ca(2+)]c and activation of CaMKII and AMPK resulting in lipid accumulation, reduced glucose uptake and increased glycogen synthesis. These metabolic changes are accompanied by an activation of pro-apoptotic signalling pathways.

  20. Increase in cytosolic Ca2+ produced by hypoxia and other depolarizing stimuli activates a non-selective cation channel in chemoreceptor cells of rat carotid body

    PubMed Central

    Kang, Dawon; Wang, Jiaju; Hogan, James O; Vennekens, Rudi; Freichel, Marc; White, Carl; Kim, Donghee

    2014-01-01

    The current model of O2 sensing by carotid body chemoreceptor (glomus) cells is that hypoxia inhibits the outward K+ current and causes cell depolarization, Ca2+ influx via voltage-dependent Ca2+ channels and a rise in intracellular [Ca2+] ([Ca2+]i). Here we show that hypoxia (<5% O2), in addition to inhibiting the two-pore domain K+ channels TASK-1/3 (TASK), indirectly activates an ∼20 pS channel in isolated glomus cells. The 20 pS channel was permeable to K+, Na+ and Cs+ but not to Cl− or Ca2+. The 20 pS channel was not sensitive to voltage. Inhibition of TASK by external acid, depolarization of glomus cells with high external KCl (20 mm) or opening of the Ca2+ channel with FPL64176 activated the 20 pS channel when 1 mm Ca2+ was present in the external solution. Ca2+ (10 μm) applied to the cytosolic side of inside-out patches activated the 20 pS channel. The threshold [Ca2+]i for activation of the 20 pS channel in cell-attached patches was ∼200 nm. The reversal potential of the 20 pS channel was estimated to be −28 mV. Our results reveal a sequential mechanism in which hypoxia (<5% O2) first inhibits the K+ conductance and then activates a Na+-permeable, non-selective cation channel via depolarization-induced rise in [Ca2+]i. Our results suggest that inhibition of K+ efflux and stimulation of Na+ influx both contribute to the depolarization of glomus cells during moderate to severe hypoxia. PMID:24591572

  1. Modulation of GABA-stimulated chloride influx into membrane vesicles from rat cerebral cortex by triazolobenzodiazepines

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Obata, T.; Yamamura, H.I.

    1988-01-01

    The effects of triazolobenzodiazepines of GABA-stimulated /sup 36/Cl/sup -/ uptake by membrane vesicles from rat cerebral cortex were examined. Triazolam and alprazolam showed a significant enhancement of GABA-stimulated /sup 36/Cl/sup -/ uptake at 0.01-10 uM. On the other hand, adinazolam showed a small enhancement at 0.1-1 uM followed by a significant inhibition of GABA-stimulated /sup 36/Cl/sup -/ uptake at 100 uM. The enhancement of GABA-stimulated /sup 36/Cl/sup -/ uptake by 1 uM alprazolam was antagonized by Ro15-1788, a benzodiazepine antagonist, but the inhibition of this response by 30 uM adinazolam was not antagonized by Ro15-1788. These results indicate that triazolobenzodiazepinesmore » enhanced GABA-stimulated /sup 36/Cl/sup -/ uptake through benzodiazepine receptors. High concentrations of adinazolam inhibit GABA-stimulated /sup 36/Cl/sup -/ uptake which may be due to the direct blockade of GABA-gated chloride channel. 23 references, 4 figures.« less

  2. Electrochemical Formation of Divalent Samarium Cation and Its Characteristics in LiCl-KCl Melt.

    PubMed

    Bae, Sang-Eun; Jung, Tae Sub; Cho, Young-Hwan; Kim, Jong-Yun; Kwak, Kyungwon; Park, Tae-Hong

    2018-06-28

    The electrochemical reduction of trivalent samarium in a LiCl-KCl eutectic melt produced highly stable divalent samarium, whose electrochemical properties and electronic structure in the molten salt were investigated using cyclic voltammetry, UV-vis absorption spectroscopy, laser-induced emission spectroscopy, and density functional theory (DFT) calculations. Diffusion coefficients of Sm 2+ and Sm 3+ were electrochemically measured to be 0.92 × 10 -5 and 1.10 × 10 -5 cm 2 /s, respectively, and the standard apparent potential of the Sm 2+/3+ couple was estimated to be -0.82 V vs Ag|Ag + at 450 °C. The spectroelectrochemical study demonstrated that the redox behavior of the samarium cations obeys the Nernst equation ( E°' = -0.83 V, n = 1) and the trivalent samarium cation was successfully converted to the divalent cation having characteristic absorption bands at 380 and 530 nm with molar absorptivity values of 1470 and 810 M -1 cm -1 , respectively. Density function theory calculations for the divalent samarium complex revealed that the absorption signals originated from the 4f 6 to 4f 5 5d 1 transitions. Additionally, laser-induced emission measurements for the Sm cations in the LiCl-KCl matrix showed that the Sm 3+ ion in the LiCl-KCl melt at 450 °C emitted an orange color of fluorescence, whereas a red colored emission was observed from the Sm 2+ ion in the solidified LCl-KCl salt at room temperature.

  3. A reactive distillation process for the treatment of LiCl-KCl eutectic waste salt containing rare earth chlorides

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Eun, H. C.; Choi, J. H.; Kim, N. Y.; Lee, T. K.; Han, S. Y.; Lee, K. R.; Park, H. S.; Ahn, D. H.

    2016-11-01

    The pyrochemical process, which recovers useful resources (U/TRU metals) from used nuclear fuel using an electrochemical method, generates LiCl-KCl eutectic waste salt containing radioactive rare earth chlorides (RECl3). It is necessary to develop a simple process for the treatment of LiCl-KCl eutectic waste salt in a hot-cell facility. For this reason, a reactive distillation process using a chemical agent was achieved as a method to separate rare earths from the LiCl-KCl waste salt. Before conducting the reactive distillation, thermodynamic equilibrium behaviors of the reactions between rare earth (Nd, La, Ce, Pr) chlorides and the chemical agent (K2CO3) were predicted using software. The addition of the chemical agent was determined to separate the rare earth chlorides into an oxide form using these equilibrium results. In the reactive distillation test, the rare earth chlorides in LiCl-KCl eutectic salt were decontaminated at a decontamination factor (DF) of more than 5000, and were mainly converted into oxide (Nd2O3, CeO2, La2O3, Pr2O3) or oxychloride (LaOCl, PrOCl) forms. The LiCl-KCl was purified into a form with a very low concentration (<1 ppm) for the rare earth chlorides.

  4. Neuronal Na+ Channels Are Integral Components of Pro-arrhythmic Na+/Ca2+ Signaling Nanodomain That Promotes Cardiac Arrhythmias During β-adrenergic Stimulation

    PubMed Central

    Radwański, Przemysław B.; Ho, Hsiang-Ting; Veeraraghavan, Rengasayee; Brunello, Lucia; Liu, Bin; Belevych, Andriy E.; Unudurthi, Sathya D.; Makara, Michael A.; Priori, Silvia G.; Volpe, Pompeo; Armoundas, Antonis A.; Dillmann, Wolfgang H.; Knollmann, Bjorn C.; Mohler, Peter J.; Hund, Thomas J.; Györke, Sándor

    2016-01-01

    Background Cardiac arrhythmias are a leading cause of death in the US. Vast majority of these arrhythmias including catecholaminergic polymorphic ventricular tachycardia (CPVT) are associated with increased levels of circulating catecholamines and involve abnormal impulse formation secondary to aberrant Ca2+ and Na+ handling. However, the mechanistic link between β-AR stimulation and the subcellular/molecular arrhythmogenic trigger(s) remains elusive. Methods and Results We performed functional and structural studies to assess Ca2+ and Na+ signaling in ventricular myocyte as well as surface electrocardiograms in mouse models of cardiac calsequestrin (CASQ2)-associated CPVT. We demonstrate that a subpopulation of Na+ channels (neuronal Na+ channels; nNav) that colocalize with RyR2 and Na+/Ca2+ exchanger (NCX) are a part of the β-AR-mediated arrhythmogenic process. Specifically, augmented Na+ entry via nNav in the settings of genetic defects within the RyR2 complex and enhanced sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) Ca2+-ATPase (SERCA)-mediated SR Ca2+ refill is both an essential and a necessary factor for the arrhythmogenesis. Furthermore, we show that augmentation of Na+ entry involves β-AR-mediated activation of CAMKII subsequently leading to nNav augmentation. Importantly, selective pharmacological inhibition as well as silencing of Nav1.6 inhibit myocyte arrhythmic potential and prevent arrhythmias in vivo. Conclusion These data suggest that the arrhythmogenic alteration in Na+/Ca2+ handling evidenced ruing β-AR stimulation results, at least in part, from enhanced Na+ influx through nNav. Therefore, selective inhibition of these channels and Nav1.6 in particular can serve as a potential antiarrhythmic therapy. PMID:27747307

  5. Potassium uptake supporting plant growth in the absence of AKT1 channel activity: Inhibition by ammonium and stimulation by sodium

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Spalding, E. P.; Hirsch, R. E.; Lewis, D. R.; Qi, Z.; Sussman, M. R.; Lewis, B. D.

    1999-01-01

    A transferred-DNA insertion mutant of Arabidopsis that lacks AKT1 inward-rectifying K+ channel activity in root cells was obtained previously by a reverse-genetic strategy, enabling a dissection of the K+-uptake apparatus of the root into AKT1 and non-AKT1 components. Membrane potential measurements in root cells demonstrated that the AKT1 component of the wild-type K+ permeability was between 55 and 63% when external [K+] was between 10 and 1,000 microM, and NH4+ was absent. NH4+ specifically inhibited the non-AKT1 component, apparently by competing for K+ binding sites on the transporter(s). This inhibition by NH4+ had significant consequences for akt1 plants: K+ permeability, 86Rb+ fluxes into roots, seed germination, and seedling growth rate of the mutant were each similarly inhibited by NH4+. Wild-type plants were much more resistant to NH4+. Thus, AKT1 channels conduct the K+ influx necessary for the growth of Arabidopsis embryos and seedlings in conditions that block the non-AKT1 mechanism. In contrast to the effects of NH4+, Na+ and H+ significantly stimulated the non-AKT1 portion of the K+ permeability. Stimulation of akt1 growth rate by Na+, a predicted consequence of the previous result, was observed when external [K+] was 10 microM. Collectively, these results indicate that the AKT1 channel is an important component of the K+ uptake apparatus supporting growth, even in the "high-affinity" range of K+ concentrations. In the absence of AKT1 channel activity, an NH4+-sensitive, Na+/H+-stimulated mechanism can suffice.

  6. Biochemical effects of the hypoglycaemic compound diphenyleneiodonium. Catalysis of anion–hydroxyl ion exchange across the inner membrane of rat liver mitochondria and effects on oxygen uptake

    PubMed Central

    Holland, P. C.; Sherratt, H. S. A.

    1972-01-01

    1. The hypoglycaemic compound diphenyleneiodonium causes rapid and extensive swelling of rat liver mitochondria suspended in 150mm-NH4Cl, and in 150mm-KCl in the presence of 2,4-dinitrophenol and valinomycin. This indicates that diphenyleneiodonium catalyses a compulsory exchange of OH− for Cl− across the mitochondrial inner membrane. Br− and SCN− were the only other anions found whose exchange for OH− is catalysed by diphenyleneiodonium. 2. Diphenyleneiodonium inhibited state 3 respiration of mitochondria and slightly stimulated state 4 respiration with succinate or glutamate as substrate in a standard Cl−-containing medium. 3. Diphenyleneiodonium did not inhibit state 3 respiration significantly in two Cl−-free media (based on glycerol 2-phosphate or sucrose) but caused some stimulation of state 4. 4. In Cl−-containing medium diphenyleneiodonium only slightly inhibited the 2,4-dinitrophenol-stimulated adenosine triphosphatase and it had little effect in the absence of Cl−. 5. The inhibition of respiration in the presence of Cl− is dependent on the Cl−–OH− exchange. 2,4-Dichlorodiphenyleneiodonium is ten times as active as diphenyleneiodonium both in causing swelling of mitochondria suspended in 150mm-NH4Cl and in inhibiting state 3 respiration in Cl−-containing medium. Indirect evidence suggests that the Cl−–OH− exchange impairs the rate of uptake of substrate anions. 6. It is proposed that stimulation of state 4 respiration in the absence of Cl− depends, at least in part, on an electrogenic uptake of diphenyleneiodonium cations. 7. Tripropyl-lead acetate, methylmercuric iodide and nine substituted diphenyleneiodonium derivatives also catalyse Cl−–OH− exchange across the mitochondrial membrane. 8. Diphenyleneiodonium is compared with the trialkyltin compounds, which are also known to mediate Cl−–OH− exchange and which have in addition strong oligomycin-like effects on respiration. It is concluded that

  7. Bax regulates neuronal Ca2+ homeostasis.

    PubMed

    D'Orsi, Beatrice; Kilbride, Seán M; Chen, Gang; Perez Alvarez, Sergio; Bonner, Helena P; Pfeiffer, Shona; Plesnila, Nikolaus; Engel, Tobias; Henshall, David C; Düssmann, Heiko; Prehn, Jochen H M

    2015-01-28

    Excessive Ca(2+) entry during glutamate receptor overactivation ("excitotoxicity") induces acute or delayed neuronal death. We report here that deficiency in bax exerted broad neuroprotection against excitotoxic injury and oxygen/glucose deprivation in mouse neocortical neuron cultures and reduced infarct size, necrotic injury, and cerebral edema formation after middle cerebral artery occlusion in mice. Neuronal Ca(2+) and mitochondrial membrane potential (Δψm) analysis during excitotoxic injury revealed that bax-deficient neurons showed significantly reduced Ca(2+) transients during the NMDA excitation period and did not exhibit the deregulation of Δψm that was observed in their wild-type (WT) counterparts. Reintroduction of bax or a bax mutant incapable of proapoptotic oligomerization equally restored neuronal Ca(2+) dynamics during NMDA excitation, suggesting that Bax controlled Ca(2+) signaling independently of its role in apoptosis execution. Quantitative confocal imaging of intracellular ATP or mitochondrial Ca(2+) levels using FRET-based sensors indicated that the effects of bax deficiency on Ca(2+) handling were not due to enhanced cellular bioenergetics or increased Ca(2+) uptake into mitochondria. We also observed that mitochondria isolated from WT or bax-deficient cells similarly underwent Ca(2+)-induced permeability transition. However, when Ca(2+) uptake into the sarco/endoplasmic reticulum was blocked with the Ca(2+)-ATPase inhibitor thapsigargin, bax-deficient neurons showed strongly elevated cytosolic Ca(2+) levels during NMDA excitation, suggesting that the ability of Bax to support dynamic ER Ca(2+) handling is critical for cell death signaling during periods of neuronal overexcitation. Copyright © 2015 the authors 0270-6474/15/351706-17$15.00/0.

  8. Bombesin-induced gastrin release from canine G cells is stimulated by Ca2+ but not by protein kinase C, and is enhanced by disruption of rho/cytoskeletal pathways.

    PubMed Central

    Seensalu, R; Avedian, D; Barbuti, R; Song, M; Slice, L; Walsh, J H

    1997-01-01

    Isolated canine G cells in primary culture have been used to study calcium, protein kinase C (PKC), and rho/cytoskeletal-dependent intracellular pathways involved in bombesin- stimulated gastrin release. A method to obtain highly purified G cells by culture (64% G cells) after flow cytometry on elutriated fractions of cells from digested canine gastric antral mucosa has been developed. Pretreatment of G cells with thapsigargin (10(-8)-10(-6) M) and release experiments in Ca2+-containing or -depleted media showed that influx of Ca2+ into the cells and not acute release from intracellular stores plays an important role in bombesin-stimulated gastrin release. Inhibition of PKC by the specific inhibitor GF 109 203X did not affect bombesin-stimulated release. Rho, a small GTP-binding protein that regulates the actin cytoskeleton, is specifically antagonized by Clostridium botulinum C3 exoenzyme. C3 (10 microg/ml) enhanced basal and bombesin-stimulated gastrin release by 315 and 266%, respectively. The importance of the cytoskeleton for regulation of gastrin release was emphasized by a more pronounced release of gastrin when the organization of the actin cytoskeleton was disrupted by cytochalasin D (5 x 10(-)7 and 10(-)6 M). Wortmannin, a potent inhibitor of phosphoinositide-3-kinase, did not alter bombesin-stimulated gastrin release. Thus, it is concluded that bombesin-induced gastrin release from canine G cells is stimulated by Ca2+ but not by PKC, and is enhanced by disruption of rho/cytoskeletal pathways. PMID:9276720

  9. Bombesin-induced gastrin release from canine G cells is stimulated by Ca2+ but not by protein kinase C, and is enhanced by disruption of rho/cytoskeletal pathways.

    PubMed

    Seensalu, R; Avedian, D; Barbuti, R; Song, M; Slice, L; Walsh, J H

    1997-09-01

    Isolated canine G cells in primary culture have been used to study calcium, protein kinase C (PKC), and rho/cytoskeletal-dependent intracellular pathways involved in bombesin- stimulated gastrin release. A method to obtain highly purified G cells by culture (64% G cells) after flow cytometry on elutriated fractions of cells from digested canine gastric antral mucosa has been developed. Pretreatment of G cells with thapsigargin (10(-8)-10(-6) M) and release experiments in Ca2+-containing or -depleted media showed that influx of Ca2+ into the cells and not acute release from intracellular stores plays an important role in bombesin-stimulated gastrin release. Inhibition of PKC by the specific inhibitor GF 109 203X did not affect bombesin-stimulated release. Rho, a small GTP-binding protein that regulates the actin cytoskeleton, is specifically antagonized by Clostridium botulinum C3 exoenzyme. C3 (10 microg/ml) enhanced basal and bombesin-stimulated gastrin release by 315 and 266%, respectively. The importance of the cytoskeleton for regulation of gastrin release was emphasized by a more pronounced release of gastrin when the organization of the actin cytoskeleton was disrupted by cytochalasin D (5 x 10(-)7 and 10(-)6 M). Wortmannin, a potent inhibitor of phosphoinositide-3-kinase, did not alter bombesin-stimulated gastrin release. Thus, it is concluded that bombesin-induced gastrin release from canine G cells is stimulated by Ca2+ but not by PKC, and is enhanced by disruption of rho/cytoskeletal pathways.

  10. Ca biogeochemical cycle at the beech tree - soil solution interface from the Strengbach CZO (NE France): a clue from stable Ca and radiogenic Sr isotopes

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Schmitt, Anne-Désirée; Gangloff, Sophie; Labolle, François; Chabaux, François; Stille, Peter

    2017-04-01

    Stable calcium and radiogenic Sr are analysed in several organs from two beech trees that were collected in June and September in the Strengbach CZO (NE France) and in corresponding soil solutions. The combination of these two isotopic systems shows that the isotopic signatures of roots are dominated by Ca fractionation mechanisms and Sr, and thus Ca, source variations. In contrast, translocation mechanisms are only governed by Ca fractionation processes. This study also confirms in the field that the Ca uptake mechanisms from nutritive solutions are controlled by adsorption processes in small roots because of physico-chemical mechanisms. Similarly, a study of surface soil solutions suggests that recent soil waters are less affected by vegetation uptake than in the past, probably because of a decline in the growth of the vegetation that is linked to climate warming, which causes drought episodes. Thus, soil solutions reflect the role of soil components in addition to nutrient uptake by vegetation. This isotopic Ca-Sr study also helps to identify one-time events that are caused by snow cover melting and/or dry episodes that release cations.

  11. Hydro-ethanolic extract of cashew tree (Anacardium occidentale) nut and its principal compound, anacardic acid, stimulate glucose uptake in C2C12 muscle cells.

    PubMed

    Tedong, Leonard; Madiraju, Padma; Martineau, Louis C; Vallerand, Diane; Arnason, John T; Desire, Dzeufiet D P; Lavoie, Louis; Kamtchouing, Pierre; Haddad, Pierre S

    2010-12-01

    Products of cashew tree (Anacardium occidentale) are used in traditional medicine for various ailments, including diabetes. The anti-diabetic properties of cashew plant parts were studied using differentiated C2C12 myoblasts (myotubes) and rat liver mitochondria. Hydroethanolic extract of cashew seed (CSE) and its active component, anacardic acid (AA), stimulated glucose transport into C2C12 myotubes in a concentration-dependent manner. Extracts of other parts (leaves, bark and apple) of cashew plant were inactive. Significant synergistic effect on glucose uptake with insulin was noticed at 100 μg/mL CSE. CSE and AA caused activation of adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase in C2C12 myotubes after 6 h of incubation. No significant effect was noticed on Akt and insulin receptor phosphorylation. Both CSE and AA exerted significant uncoupling of succinate-stimulated respiration in rat liver mitochondria. Activation of adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase by CSE and AA likely increases plasma membrane glucose transporters, resulting in elevated glucose uptake. In addition, the dysfunction of mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation may enhance glycolysis and contribute to increased glucose uptake. These results collectively suggest that CSE may be a potential anti-diabetic nutraceutical. Copyright © 2010 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  12. The Allergen Der p3 from House Dust Mite Stimulates Store-Operated Ca2+ Channels and Mast Cell Migration through PAR4 Receptors.

    PubMed

    Lin, Yu-Ping; Nelson, Charmaine; Kramer, Holger; Parekh, Anant B

    2018-04-19

    The house dust mite is the principal source of perennial aeroallergens in man. How these allergens activate innate and adaptive immunity is unclear, and therefore, there are no therapies targeting mite allergens. Here, we show that house dust mite extract activates store-operated Ca 2+ channels, a common signaling module in numerous cell types in the lung. Activation of channel pore-forming Orai1 subunits by mite extract requires gating by STIM1 proteins. Although mite extract stimulates both protease-activated receptor type 2 (PAR2) and PAR4 receptors, Ca 2+ influx is more tightly coupled to the PAR4 pathway. We identify a major role for the serine protease allergen Der p3 in stimulating Orai1 channels and show that a therapy involving sub-maximal inhibition of both Der p3 and Orai1 channels suppresses mast cell activation to house dust mite. Our results reveal Der p3 as an important aeroallergen that activates Ca 2+ channels and suggest a therapeutic strategy for treating mite-induced asthma. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  13. Functional coupling between the Na+/Ca2+ exchanger and nonselective cation channels during histamine stimulation in guinea pig tracheal smooth muscle.

    PubMed

    Algara-Suárez, Paola; Romero-Méndez, Catalina; Chrones, Tom; Sánchez-Armass, Sergio; Meza, Ulises; Sims, Stephen M; Espinosa-Tanguma, Ricardo

    2007-07-01

    Airway smooth muscle (ASM) contracts partly due to an increase in cytosolic Ca(2+). In this work, we found that the contraction caused by histamine depends on external Na(+), possibly involving nonselective cationic channels (NSCC) and the Na(+)/Ca(2+) exchanger (NCX). We performed various protocols using isometric force measurement of guinea pig tracheal rings stimulated by histamine. We observed that force reached 53 +/- 1% of control during external Na(+) substitution by N-methyl-D-glucamine(+), whereas substitution by Li(+) led to no significant change (91 +/- 1%). Preincubation with KB-R7943 decreased the maximal force developed (52.3 +/- 5.6%), whereas preincubation with nifedipine did not (89.7 +/- 1.8%). Also, application of the nonspecific NCX blocker KB-R7943 and nifedipine on histamine-precontracted tracheal rings reduced force to 1 +/- 3%, significantly different from nifedipine alone (49 +/- 6%). Moreover, nonspecific NSCC inhibitors SKF-96365 and 2-aminoethyldiphenyl borate reduced force to 1 +/- 1% and 19 +/- 7%, respectively. Intracellular Ca(2+) measurements in isolated ASM cells showed that KB-R7943 and SKF-96365 reduced the peak and sustained response to histamine (0.20 +/- 0.1 and 0.19 +/- 0.09 for KB-R, 0.43 +/- 0.16 and 0.47 +/- 0.18 for SKF, expressed as mean of differences). Moreover, Na(+)-free solution only inhibited the sustained response (0.54 +/- 0.25). These data support an important role for NSCC and NCX during histamine stimulation. We speculate that histamine induces Na(+) influx through NSCC that promotes the Ca(2+) entry mode of NCX and Ca(V)1.2 channel activation, thereby causing contraction.

  14. Catecholamine-Independent Heart Rate Increases Require CaMKII

    PubMed Central

    Gao, Zhan; Singh, Madhu V; Hall, Duane D; Koval, Olha M.; Luczak, Elizabeth D.; Joiner, Mei-ling A.; Chen, Biyi; Wu, Yuejin; Chaudhary, Ashok K; Martins, James B; Hund, Thomas J; Mohler, Peter J; Song, Long-Sheng; Anderson, Mark E.

    2011-01-01

    Background Catecholamines increase heart rate by augmenting the cAMP responsive HCN4 ‘pacemaker current’ (If) and/or by promoting inward Na+/Ca2+ exchanger current (INCX), by a ‘Ca2+ clock’ mechanism in sinoatrial nodal cells (SANCs). The importance, identity and function of signals that connect If and Ca2+ clock mechanisms are uncertain and controversial, but the multifunctional Ca2+ and calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII) is required for physiological heart rate responses to β-adrenergic receptor (β-AR) stimulation. The aim of this stuy is to measure the contribution of the Ca2+ clock and CaMKII to cardiac pacing independent of β-AR agonist stimulation. Methods and Results We used the L-type Ca2+ channel agonist BayK 8644 (BayK) to activate the SANC Ca2+ clock. BayK and isoproterenol were similarly effective in increasing rates in SANCs and Langendorff-perfused hearts from WT control mice. In contrast, SANCs and isolated hearts from mice with CaMKII inhibition by transgenic expression of an inhibitory peptide (AC3-I) were resistant to rate increases by BayK. BayK only activated CaMKII in control SANCs, but increased ICa equally in all SANCs, indicating that increasing ICa was insufficient and suggesting CaMKII activation was required for heart rate increases by BayK. BayK did not increase If or protein kinase A (PKA)-dependent phosphorylation of phospholamban (at Ser16), indicating that increased SANC Ca2+ by BayK did not augment cAMP/PKA signaling at these targets. Late diastolic intracellular Ca2+ release and INCX were significantly reduced in AC3-I SANCs and the response to BayK was eliminated by ryanodine in all groups. Conclusions The Ca2+ clock is capable of supporting physiological fight or flight responses, independent of β-AR stimulation or If increases. Complete Ca2+ clock and β-AR stimulation responses require CaMKII. PMID:21406683

  15. Massive Ca-induced Membrane Fusion and Phospholipid Changes Triggered by Reverse Na/Ca Exchange in BHK Fibroblasts

    PubMed Central

    Yaradanakul, Alp; Wang, Tzu-Ming; Lariccia, Vincenzo; Lin, Mei-Jung; Shen, Chengcheng; Liu, Xinran; Hilgemann, Donald W.

    2008-01-01

    Baby hamster kidney (BHK) fibroblasts increase their cell capacitance by 25–100% within 5 s upon activating maximal Ca influx via constitutively expressed cardiac Na/Ca exchangers (NCX1). Free Ca, measured with fluo-5N, transiently exceeds 0.2 mM with total Ca influx amounting to ∼5 mmol/liter cell volume. Capacitance responses are half-maximal when NCX1 promotes a free cytoplasmic Ca of 0.12 mM (Hill coefficient ≈ 2). Capacitance can return to baseline in 1–3 min, and responses can be repeated several times. The membrane tracer, FM 4-64, is taken up during recovery and can be released at a subsequent Ca influx episode. Given recent interest in signaling lipids in membrane fusion, we used green fluorescent protein (GFP) fusions with phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PI(4,5)P2) and diacylglycerol (DAG) binding domains to analyze phospholipid changes in relation to these responses. PI(4,5)P2 is rapidly cleaved upon activating Ca influx and recovers within 2 min. However, PI(4,5)P2 depletion by activation of overexpressed hM1 muscarinic receptors causes only little membrane fusion, and subsequent fusion in response to Ca influx remains massive. Two results suggest that DAG may be generated from sources other than PI(4,5)P in these protocols. First, acylglycerols are generated in response to elevated Ca, even when PI(4,5)P2 is metabolically depleted. Second, DAG-binding C1A-GFP domains, which are brought to the cell surface by exogenous ligands, translocate rapidly back to the cytoplasm in response to Ca influx. Nevertheless, inhibitors of PLCs and cPLA2, PI(4,5)P2-binding peptides, and PLD modification by butanol do not block membrane fusion. The cationic agents, FM 4-64 and heptalysine, bind profusely to the extracellular cell surface during membrane fusion. While this binding might reflect phosphatidylserine (PS) “scrambling” between monolayers, it is unaffected by a PS-binding protein, lactadherin, and by polylysine from the cytoplasmic side

  16. Increment of root membrane permeability caused by microcystins result in more elements uptake in rice (Oryza sativa).

    PubMed

    Cao, Qing; Steinman, Alan D; Yao, Lei; Xie, Liqiang

    2017-11-01

    We conducted an indoor culture experiment to evaluate the phytotoxic effect of microcystins (MCs) on rice. After a 30day exposure, MCs induced a clear inhibition in rice growth, as well as a disruption of its antioxidant system and lipid peroxidation. We observed an increase in root membrane permeability; the conductivity of the leakage solution of the roots at 50 and 500μgL -1 was significantly increased by 77% and 136%, respectively, compared to the control. Uptake of microelements (Fe, Mn, Cu and Zn) was generally not affected after the 30day exposure to MCs. In contrast, uptake of macroelements, with the exception of K, was stimulated by MCs. Ca content in roots exposed to 500μgL -1 showed the greatest increase, by 47%, compared to the control. We propose the following mechanisms to explain our experimental results: exposure of rice roots to MCs leads to root damage and loss of membrane integrity, resulting in greater permeability and uptake of elements. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  17. Intact mitochondrial Ca2+ uniport is essential for agonist-induced activation of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS).

    PubMed

    Charoensin, Suphachai; Eroglu, Emrah; Opelt, Marissa; Bischof, Helmut; Madreiter-Sokolowski, Corina T; Kirsch, Andrijana; Depaoli, Maria R; Frank, Saša; Schrammel, Astrid; Mayer, Bernd; Waldeck-Weiermair, Markus; Graier, Wolfgang F; Malli, Roland

    2017-01-01

    Mitochondrial Ca 2+ uptake regulates diverse endothelial cell functions and has also been related to nitric oxide (NO • ) production. However, it is not entirely clear if the organelles support or counteract NO • biosynthesis by taking up Ca 2+ . The objective of this study was to verify whether or not mitochondrial Ca 2+ uptake influences Ca 2+ -triggered NO • generation by endothelial NO • synthase (eNOS) in an immortalized endothelial cell line (EA.hy926), respective primary human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) and eNOS-RFP (red fluorescent protein) expressing human embryonic kidney (HEK293) cells. We used novel genetically encoded fluorescent NO • probes, the geNOps, and Ca 2+ sensors to monitor single cell NO • and Ca 2+ dynamics upon cell treatment with ATP, an inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP 3 )-generating agonist. Mitochondrial Ca 2+ uptake was specifically manipulated by siRNA-mediated knock-down of recently identified key components of the mitochondrial Ca 2+ uniporter machinery. In endothelial cells and the eNOS-RFP expressing HEK293 cells we show that reduced mitochondrial Ca 2+ uptake upon the knock-down of the mitochondrial calcium uniporter (MCU) protein and the essential MCU regulator (EMRE) yield considerable attenuation of the Ca 2+ -triggered NO • increase independently of global cytosolic Ca 2+ signals. The knock-down of mitochondrial calcium uptake 1 (MICU1), a gatekeeper of the MCU, increased both mitochondrial Ca 2+ sequestration and Ca 2+ -induced NO • signals. The positive correlation between mitochondrial Ca 2+ elevation and NO • production was independent of eNOS phosphorylation at serine 1177 . Our findings emphasize that manipulating mitochondrial Ca 2+ uptake may represent a novel strategy to control eNOS-mediated NO • production. Copyright © 2016. Published by Elsevier Inc.

  18. The Transient Receptor Potential Ion Channel TRPV6 Is Expressed at Low Levels in Osteoblasts and Has Little Role in Osteoblast Calcium Uptake

    PubMed Central

    Little, Robert; Muimo, Richmond; Robson, Louise; Harris, Kate; Grabowski, Peter S.

    2011-01-01

    Background TRPV6 ion channels are key mediators of regulated transepithelial absorption of Ca2+ within the small intestine. Trpv6 -/- mice were reported to have lower bone density than wild-type littermates and significant disturbances in calcium homeostasis that suggested a role for TRPV6 in osteoblasts during bone formation and mineralization. TRPV6 and molecules related to transepithelial Ca2+ transport have been reported to be expressed at high levels in human and mouse osteoblasts. Results Transmembrane ion currents in whole cell patch clamped SaOS-2 osteoblasts did not show sensitivity to ruthenium red, an inhibitor of TRPV5/6 ion channels, and 45Ca uptake was not significantly affected by ruthenium red in either SaOS-2 (P = 0.77) or TE-85 (P = 0.69) osteoblastic cells. In contrast, ion currents and 45Ca uptake were both significantly affected in a human bronchial epithelial cell line known to express TRPV6. TRPV6 was expressed at lower levels in osteoblastic cells than has been reported in some literature. In SaOS-2 TRPV6 mRNA was below the assay detection limit; in TE-85 TRPV6 mRNA was detected at 6.90±1.9 × 10−5 relative to B2M. In contrast, TRPV6 was detected at 7.7±3.0 × 10−2 and 2.38±0.28 × 10−4 the level of B2M in human carcinoma-derived cell lines LNCaP and CaCO-2 respectively. In murine primary calvarial osteoblasts TRPV6 was detected at 3.80±0.24 × 10−5 relative to GAPDH, in contrast with 4.3±1.5 × 10−2 relative to GAPDH in murine duodenum. By immunohistochemistry, TRPV6 was expressed mainly in myleocytic cells of the murine bone marrow and was observed only at low levels in murine osteoblasts, osteocytes or growth plate cartilage. Conclusions TRPV6 is expressed only at low levels in osteoblasts and plays little functional role in osteoblastic calcium uptake. PMID:22163264

  19. Molten salt synthesis of nanocrystalline phase of high dielectric constant material CaCu3Ti4O12.

    PubMed

    Prakash, B Shri; Varma, K B R

    2008-11-01

    Nanocrystalline powders of giant dielectric constant material, CaCu3Ti4O12 (CCTO), have been prepared successfully by the molten salt synthesis (MSS) using KCl at 750 degrees C/10 h, which is significantly lower than the calcination temperature (approximately 1000 degrees C) that is employed to obtain phase pure CCTO in the conventional solid-state reaction route. The water washed molten salt synthesized powder, characterized by X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) confirmed to be a phase pure CCTO associated with approximately 150 nm sized crystallites of nearly spherical shape. The decrease in the formation temperature/duration of CCTO in MSS method was attributed to an increase in the diffusion rate or a decrease in the diffusion length of reacting ions in the molten salt medium. As a consequence of liquid phase sintering, pellets of as-synthesized KCl containing CCTO powder exhibited higher sinterability and grain size than that of KCl free CCTO samples prepared by both MSS method and conventional solid-state reaction route. The grain size and the dielectric constant of KCl containing CCTO ceramics increased with increasing sintering temperature (900 degrees C-1050 degrees C). Indeed the dielectric constants of these ceramics were higher than that of KCl free CCTO samples prepared by both MSS method and those obtained via the solid-state reaction route and sintered at the same temperature. Internal barrier layer capacitance (IBLC) model was invoked to correlate the observed dielectric constant with the grain size in these samples.

  20. The actions of metabolic inhibition on human detrusor smooth muscle contractility from stable and unstable bladders.

    PubMed

    Hockey, J S; Wu, C; Fry, C H

    2000-09-01

    To determine the important cellular site(s) of action of a brief exposure to NaCN (chosen to reduce mitochondrial respiration and hence mimic cellular hypoxia) on the mechanical properties and regulation of intracellular [Ca2+] in human detrusor smooth muscle. Using muscle samples obtained from patients with stable and unstable bladders, to determine whether the unstable bladder is associated with changes in the functional properties of detrusor muscle under these circumstances. Materials and methods Experiments were conducted in vitro on muscle strips or isolated cells. Isometric tension was recorded in muscle strips during electrical stimulation or exposure to agonists. Intracellular [Ca2+] and [H+] were measured by epifluorescence microscopy, and cell autofluorescence measured as an index of mitochondrial function. There were no differences in the responses to electrical stimulation and varying concentrations of carbachol in muscle strips from stable and unstable bladders. NaCN (2 mmol/L) reduced the contraction induced by carbachol (10 micromol/L) by a mean (SD) of 43 (16)% and 56 (15)% in the two groups; the reduction in the unstable was significantly less than in the stable group. NaCN similarly reduced the response to 10 mmol/L caffeine, but had no effect on the KCl-induced contraction. NaCN significantly increased the resting sarcoplasmic [Ca2+] and attenuated the calcium transients evoked by carbachol and caffeine, but again had no effect on the KCl-induced transient. The reduction of the carbachol calcium transient was also less in cells from unstable bladders than in those from stable bladders. There was no effect of NaCN on intracellular pH, except for a brief, transient alkalosis. NaCN reduces both the contraction and Ca-transient to carbachol by reducing Ca2+ accumulation by intracellular stores, because the carbachol- and caffeine-evoked responses were similar. Any effect on transmembrane Ca2+ flux was minimal because there was no effect on KCl

  1. In vitro and in vivo uptake studies of PAMAM G4.5 dendrimers in breast cancer.

    PubMed

    Oddone, Natalia; Lecot, Nicole; Fernández, Marcelo; Rodriguez-Haralambides, Alejandra; Cabral, Pablo; Cerecetto, Hugo; Benech, Juan Claudio

    2016-06-13

    Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death worldwide. Nanotechnology approaches can overcome the side effects of chemotherapy as well as improve the efficacy of drugs. Dendrimers are nanometric size polymers which are suitable as drug delivery systems. To the best of our knowledge, studies on the application of PAMAM G4.5 (polyamidoamine half generation 4) dendrimers as potential drug delivery systems in breast cancer have not been reported. In this work we developed a PAMAM G4.5 dendrimer containing FITC (fluorescein isothiocyanate) dye to study their uptake by murine breast cancer cells and BALB/c mice breast tumors. We performed a reaction between FITC and PAMAM G4.5 dendrimers which were previously derivatized with piperazine (linker molecule), characterized them by (1)H NMR (proton nuclear magnetic resonance) spectroscopy and MALDI-TOF (matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization- time-of-flight) mass spectrometry. The experimental data indicated that 2 FITC molecules could be bound covalently at the PAMAM G4.5 dendrimer surface, with 17 FITC molecules probably occluded in PAMAM dendrimers cavity. PAMAM-FITC dendrimer (PAMAM G4.5-piperazinyl-FITC dendrimer) size distribution was evaluated by DLS (dynamic light scattering) and TEM (transmission electron microscopy). The nanoparticle hydrodynamic size was 96.3 ± 1.4 nm with a PdI (polydispersion index) of 0.0296 ± 0.0171, and the size distribution measured by TEM was 44.2 ± 9.2 nm. PAMAM-FITC dendrimers were neither cytotoxic in 4T1 cells nor hemolytic up to 24 h of incubation. In addition, they were uptaken in vitro by 4T1 cells and in vivo by BALB/c mice breast tumors. PAMAM G4.5-piperazinyl-FITC dendrimer intracellular distribution was observed through histologic analysis of the tumor by laser confocal microscopy. These results indicate that PAMAM G4.5 dendrimers enter tumor tissue cells, being good candidates to be used as antitumor drug delivery systems for breast cancer treatment

  2. Stimulation of suicidal erythrocyte death by sulforaphane.

    PubMed

    Alzoubi, Kousi; Calabrò, Salvatrice; Faggio, Caterina; Lang, Florian

    2015-03-01

    Sulforaphane, an isothiocyanate from cruciferous vegetable, counteracts malignancy. The effect is at least in part due to the stimulation of suicidal death or apoptosis of tumour cells. Mechanisms invoked in sulforaphane-induced apoptosis include mitochondrial depolarization and altered gene expression. Despite the lack of mitochondria and nuclei, erythrocytes may, similar to apoptosis of nucleated cells, enter eryptosis, a suicidal cell death characterized by cell shrinkage and phosphatidylserine translocation to the erythrocyte surface. Stimulators of eryptosis include increase of cytosolic Ca(2+)-activity ([Ca(2+)]i). This study explored whether sulforaphane stimulates eryptosis. Cell volume was estimated from forward scatter, phosphatidylserine exposure at the cell surface from annexin V binding and [Ca(2+)]i from Fluo-3 fluorescence. A 48-hr treatment of human erythrocytes with sulforaphane (50-100 μM) significantly decreased forward scatter, significantly increased the percentage of annexin V binding cells and significantly increased [Ca(2+)]i. The effect of sulforaphane (100 μM) on annexin V binding was significantly blunted but not abrogated by the removal of extracellular Ca(2+). Sulforaphane (100 μM) significantly increased ceramide formation. In conclusion, sulforaphane stimulates suicidal erythrocyte death or eryptosis, an effect at least partially, but not exclusively, due to the stimulation of Ca(2+) entry and ceramide formation. © 2014 Nordic Association for the Publication of BCPT (former Nordic Pharmacological Society).

  3. Effects of KCl substitution on textural properties of Queso Fresco

    USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

    Partial substitution of KCl for NaCl has been attempted in some common cheese varieties because of restrictions on sodium in the diets of some consumers. The changes in texture of Queso Fresco, a popular Hispanic cheese, were monitored during refrigerated storage after replacing some of the NaCl wi...

  4. Properties of the Ca2+ influx reveal the duality of events underlying the activation by vanadate and fluoride of the Gárdos effect in human red blood cells.

    PubMed

    Varecka, L; Peterajová, E; Písová, E

    1998-08-14

    The properties of the 45Ca2+ influx by human red blood cells (RBC) induced by NaVO3 or NaF were compared. The NaVO3-induced 45Ca2+ influx was slower and less extensive than that induced by NaF. Both processes were saturable with Ca2+. Substitution of Na+ by K+ inhibited the 45Ca2+ influx induced by NaVO3 but stimulated that by NaF. The NaVO3-induced Ca2+ influx was sensitive to nifedipine (IC50 = 50 mol/l), Cu2+ (IC50=9 mol/l), DTNB (5,5'-dithiobis-(dinitrobenzoic acid)) (IC50 = 12 mol/l) (maximal inhibition 16%, 18%, and 28%, respectively, if NaF was used as inducer). On the other hand, tetrodotoxin (TTX) and cyclosporin A inhibited only the NaF-induced 45Ca2+ influx (IC50 = 21 mol/l and 28 mol/l, respectively). Pig RBC, known not to display the NaVO3-induced Ca2+ influx, exhibited Ca2+ influx induced by NaF. The results show that NaVO3 activates the Ca2+ influx via a pathway homologous to the L-type Ca2+ channel while the NaF-induced Ca2+ influx is mediated via the TTX-sensitive Na+ channel in the presence of NaF with possible participation of calcineurin or cyclophilin. Thus, the Gardos effect induced by NaVO3 and NaF represents two phenomena activated by different mechanisms present in the cryptic state in the RBC membrane.

  5. Differential roles of PKC isoforms (PKCs) and Ca2+ in GnRH and phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA) stimulation of p38MAPK phosphorylation in immortalized gonadotrope cells.

    PubMed

    Mugami, Shany; Kravchook, Shani; Rahamim-Ben Navi, Liat; Seger, Rony; Naor, Zvi

    2017-01-05

    We examined the role of PKCs and Ca 2+ in GnRH-stimulated p38MAPK phosphorylation in the gonadotrope derived αT3-1 and LβT2 cell lines. GnRH induced a slow and rapid increase in p38MAPK phosphorylation in αT3-1 and LβT2 cells respectively, while PMA gave a slow response. The use of dominant negatives for PKCs and peptide inhibitors for the receptors for activated C kinase (RACKs), has revealed differential role for PKCα, PKCβII, PKCδ and PKCε in p38MAPK phosphorylation in a ligand-and cell context-dependent manner. The paradoxical findings that PKCs activated by GnRH and PMA play a differential role in p38MAPK phosphorylation may be explained by differential localization of the PKCs. Basal, GnRH- and PMA- stimulation of p38MAPK phosphorylation in αT3-1 cells is mediated by Ca 2+ influx via voltage-gated Ca 2+ channels and Ca 2+ mobilization, while in the differentiated LβT2 gonadotrope cells it is mediated only by Ca 2+ mobilization. p38MAPK resides in the cell membrane and is relocated to the nucleus by GnRH (∼5 min). Thus, we have identified the PKCs and the Ca 2+ pools involved in GnRH stimulated p38MAPK phosphorylation. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

  6. F-actin-based Ca signaling-a critical comparison with the current concept of Ca signaling.

    PubMed

    Lange, Klaus; Gartzke, Joachim

    2006-11-01

    A short comparative survey on the current idea of Ca signaling and the alternative concept of F-actin-based Ca signaling is given. The two hypotheses differ in one central aspect, the mechanism of Ca storage. The current theory rests on the assumption of Ca-accumulating endoplasmic/sarcoplasmic reticulum-derived vesicles equipped with an ATP-dependent Ca pump and IP3- or ryanodine-sensitive channel-receptors for Ca-release. The alternative hypothesis proceeds from the idea of Ca storage at the high-affinity binding sites of actin filaments. Cellular sites of F-actin-based Ca storage are microvilli and the submembrane cytoskeleton. Several specific features of Ca signaling such as store-channel coupling, quantal Ca release, spiking and oscillations, biphasic and "phasic" uptake kinetics, and Ca-induced Ca release (CICR), which are not adequately described by the current concept, are inherent properties of the F-actin system and its dynamic state of treadmilling. Copyright 2006 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

  7. A non-capacitative pathway activated by arachidonic acid is the major Ca2+ entry mechanism in rat A7r5 smooth muscle cells stimulated with low concentrations of vasopressin

    PubMed Central

    Broad, Lisa M; Cannon, Toby R; Taylor, Colin W

    1999-01-01

    Depletion of the Ca2+ stores of A7r5 cells stimulated Ca2+, though not Sr2+, entry. Vasopressin (AVP) or platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) stimulated Sr2+ entry. The cells therefore express a capacitative pathway activated by empty stores and a non-capacitative pathway stimulated by receptors; only the former is permeable to Mn2+ and only the latter to Sr2+. Neither empty stores nor inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (InsP3) binding to its receptors are required for activation of the non-capacitative pathway, because microinjection of cells with heparin prevented PDGF-evoked Ca2+ mobilization but not Sr2+ entry. Low concentrations of Gd3+ irreversibly blocked capacitative Ca2+ entry without affecting AVP-evoked Sr2+ entry. After inhibition of the capacitative pathway with Gd3+, AVP evoked a substantial increase in cytosolic [Ca2+], confirming that the non-capacitative pathway can evoke a significant increase in cytosolic [Ca2+]. Arachidonic acid mimicked the effect of AVP on Sr2+ entry without stimulating Mn2+ entry; the Sr2+ entry was inhibited by 100 μM Gd3+, but not by 1 μM Gd3+ which completely inhibited capacitative Ca2+ entry. The effects of arachidonic acid did not require its metabolism. AVP-evoked Sr2+ entry was unaffected by isotetrandrine, an inhibitor of G protein-coupled phospholipase A2. U73122, an inhibitor of phosphoinositidase C, inhibited AVP-evoked formation of inositol phosphates and Sr2+ entry. The effects of phorbol esters and Ro31-8220 (a protein kinase C inhibitor) established that protein kinase C did not mediate the effects of AVP on the non-capacitative pathway. An inhibitor of diacylglycerol lipase, RHC-80267, inhibited AVP-evoked Sr2+ entry without affecting capacitative Ca2+ entry or release of Ca2+ stores. Selective inhibition of capacitative Ca2+ entry with Gd3+ revealed that the non-capacitative pathway is the major route for the Ca2+ entry evoked by low AVP concentrations. We conclude that in A7r5 cells, the Ca2+ entry evoked by

  8. Interactions Between Structure and Processing that Control Moisture Uptake in High-Performance Polycyanurates (Briefing Charts)

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2015-03-24

    distribution is unlimited.  . Interactions Between Structure and Processing that Control Moisture Uptake in High-Performance Polycyanurates Presenter: Dr...Edwards AFB, CA 4 California State University, Long Beach, CA 90840 2 Outline: Basic Studies of Moisture Uptake in Cyanate Ester Networks • Background...Motivation • SOTA Theories of Moisture Uptake in Thermosetting Networks • New Tools and New Discoveries • Unresolved Issues and Ways to Address Them

  9. Calcium-stimulated autophosphorylation site of plant chimeric calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Sathyanarayanan, P. V.; Siems, W. F.; Jones, J. P.; Poovaiah, B. W.

    2001-01-01

    The existence of two molecular switches regulating plant chimeric Ca(2+)/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase (CCaMK), namely the C-terminal visinin-like domain acting as Ca(2+)-sensitive molecular switch and calmodulin binding domain acting as Ca(2+)-stimulated autophosphorylation-sensitive molecular switch, has been described (Sathyanarayanan, P. V., Cremo, C. R., and Poovaiah, B. W. (2000) J. Biol. Chem. 275, 30417-30422). Here we report the identification of Ca(2+)-stimulated autophosphorylation site of CCaMK by matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization time of flight-mass spectrometry. Thr(267) was confirmed as the Ca(2+)-stimulated autophosphorylation site by post-source decay experiments and by site-directed mutagenesis. The purified T267A mutant form of CCaMK did not show Ca(2+)-stimulated autophosphorylation, autophosphorylation-dependent variable calmodulin affinity, or Ca(2+)/calmodulin stimulation of kinase activity. Sequence comparison of CCaMK from monocotyledonous plant (lily) and dicotyledonous plant (tobacco) suggests that the autophosphorylation site is conserved. This is the first identification of a phosphorylation site specifically responding to activation by second messenger system (Ca(2+) messenger system) in plants. Homology modeling of the kinase and calmodulin binding domain of CCaMK with the crystal structure of calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase 1 suggests that the Ca(2+)-stimulated autophosphorylation site is located on the surface of the kinase and far from the catalytic site. Analysis of Ca(2+)-stimulated autophosphorylation with increasing concentration of CCaMK indicates the possibility that the Ca(2+)-stimulated phosphorylation occurs by an intermolecular mechanism.

  10. Influence of Ca and pH on the uptake and effects of Cd in Folsomia candida exposed to simplified soil solutions.

    PubMed

    Ardestani, Masoud M; Ortiz, Maria Diez; van Gestel, Cornelis A M

    2013-08-01

    The present study sought to quantify the components of a biotic ligand model (BLM) for the effects of Cd on Folsomia candida (Collembola). Assuming that soil porewater is the main route of exposure and to exclude the effects of soil particles on metal availability, animals were exposed for 7 d to different Cd concentrations between 0.1 mM and 100 mM in simplified soil solutions at different Ca concentrations (0.2 mM, 0.8 mM, 3.2 mM, and 12.8 mM) or at different pH (5.0, 6.0, and 7.0). Higher Ca concentrations decreased the toxicity of Cd (adult survival) in test solutions, whereas toxicity was slightly lower at pH 7 and 6 than at pH 5, suggesting a mitigating effect of Ca and to a lesser extent pH on Cd toxicity to F. candida. Internal Cd concentrations in the animals increased with increasing exposure level but were significantly reduced by increasing Ca concentrations and were not significantly affected by pH. By using Langmuir isotherms, binding constants for Cd, Ca, and protons and the fraction of binding sites occupied by Cd were calculated and used to predict effects of Cd on survival. Predicted toxicity showed a good agreement with measured responses when Ca and pH were used as separate factors or combined together. The present study shows indications of protective effects of Ca but less of protons on the toxicity and uptake of Cd in F. candida on exposure to simplified soil solutions, which can be described using the principles of a biotic ligand model. Copyright © 2013 SETAC.

  11. K(Ca)3.1 channels facilitate K+ secretion or Na+ absorption depending on apical or basolateral P2Y receptor stimulation.

    PubMed

    Palmer, Melissa L; Peitzman, Elizabeth R; Maniak, Peter J; Sieck, Gary C; Prakash, Y S; O'Grady, Scott M

    2011-07-15

    Human mammary epithelial (HME) cells express several P2Y receptor subtypes located in both apical and basolateral membranes. Apical UTP or ATP-γ-S stimulation of monolayers mounted in Ussing chambers evoked a rapid, but transient decrease in short circuit current (I(sc)), consistent with activation of an apical K+ conductance. In contrast, basolateral P2Y receptor stimulation activated basolateral K+ channels and increased transepithelial Na+ absorption. Chelating intracellular Ca2+ using the membrane-permeable compound BAPTA-AM, abolished the effects of purinoceptor activation on I(sc). Apical pretreatment with charybdotoxin also blocked the I(sc) decrease by >90% and similar magnitudes of inhibition were observed with clotrimazole and TRAM-34. In contrast, iberiotoxin and apamin did not block the effects of apical P2Y receptor stimulation. Silencing the expression of K(Ca)3.1 produced ∼70% inhibition of mRNA expression and a similar reduction in the effects of apical purinoceptor agonists on I(sc). In addition, silencing P2Y2 receptors reduced the level of P2Y2 mRNA by 75% and blocked the effects of ATP-γ-S by 65%. These results suggest that P2Y2 receptors mediate the effects of purinoceptor agonists on K+ secretion by regulating the activity of K(Ca)3.1 channels expressed in the apical membrane of HME cells. The results also indicate that release of ATP or UTP across the apical or basolateral membrane elicits qualitatively different effects on ion transport that may ultimately determine the [Na+]/[K+] composition of fluid within the mammary ductal network.

  12. Bioactivity of gel-glass powders in the CaO-SiO2 system: a comparison with ternary (CaO-P2O5-SiO2) and quaternary glasses (SiO2-CaO-P2O5-Na2O).

    PubMed

    Saravanapavan, Priya; Jones, Julian R; Pryce, Russell S; Hench, Larry L

    2003-07-01

    Bioactive glasses react chemically with body fluids in a manner that is compatible with the repair processes of the tissues. This results in the formation of an interfacial bond between the glasses and living tissue. Bioactive glasses also stimulate bone-cell proliferation. This behavior is dependent on the chemical composition as well as the surface texture of the glasses. It has been recently reported that gel-derived monolith specimens in the binary SiO2 - CaO are bioactive over a similar molar range of SiO2 content as the previously studied ternary CaO-P2O5-SiO2 system. In this report, the preparation and bioactivity of the binary gel-glass powder with 70 mol % SiO2 is discussed and its bioactivity is compared with the melt-derived 45S5 (quaternary) Bioglass and sol-gel-derived 58S (ternary) bioactive gel-glass compositions. Dissolution kinetic parameters K(1) and K(2) were also computed based on the silicon release for all glass powders. It was shown that the simple two-component SiO2-CaO gel-glass powder is bioactive with comparable dissolution rates as the clinically used melt-derived 45S5 Bioglass powder and extensively studied sol-gel-derived 58S gel-glass powder. Copyright 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  13. Electrodeposition of Al-Ta alloys in NaCl-KCl-AlCl3 molten salt containing TaCl5

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sato, Kazuki; Matsushima, Hisayoshi; Ueda, Mikito

    2016-12-01

    To form Al-Ta alloys for high temperature oxidation resistance components, molten salt electrolysis was carried out in an AlCl3-NaCl-KCl melt containing TaCl5 at 423 K. The voltammogram showed two cathodic waves at 0.45 V and 0.7 V vs. Al/Al(III), which may correspond to reduction from Ta(V) to Ta(III) and from Ta(III) to tantalum metal, respectively. Electrodeposits of Al and Ta were obtained in the range from -0.05 to 0.3 V and the highest concentration of Ta in the electrodeposit was 72 at% at 0.3 V. With increasing Ta content in the alloy, the morphology of the electrodeposits became powdery and the particle size smaller.

  14. The role of spatial organization of Ca2+ release sites in the generation of arrhythmogenic diastolic Ca2+ release in myocytes from failing hearts

    PubMed Central

    Ho, Hsiang-Ting; Bonilla, Ingrid M.; Terentyeva, Radmila; Schober, Karsten E.; Terentyev, Dmitry; Carnes, Cynthia A.

    2018-01-01

    In heart failure (HF), dysregulated cardiac ryanodine receptors (RyR2) contribute to the generation of diastolic Ca2+ waves (DCWs), thereby predisposing adrenergically stressed failing hearts to life-threatening arrhythmias. However, the specific cellular, subcellular, and molecular defects that account for cardiac arrhythmia in HF remain to be elucidated. Patch-clamp techniques and confocal Ca2+ imaging were applied to study spatially defined Ca2+ handling in ventricular myocytes isolated from normal (control) and failing canine hearts. Based on their activation time upon electrical stimulation, Ca2+ release sites were categorized as coupled, located in close proximity to the sarcolemmal Ca2+ channels, and uncoupled, the Ca2+ channel-free non-junctional Ca2+ release units. In control myocytes, stimulation of β-adrenergic receptors with isoproterenol (Iso) resulted in a preferential increase in Ca2+ spark rate at uncoupled sites. This site-specific effect of Iso was eliminated by the phosphatase inhibitor okadaic acid, which caused similar facilitation of Ca2+ sparks at coupled and uncoupled sites. Iso-challenged HF myocytes exhibited increased predisposition to DCWs compared to control myocytes. In addition, the overall frequency of Ca2+ sparks was increased in HF cells due to preferential stimulation of coupled sites. Furthermore, coupled sites exhibited accelerated recovery from functional refractoriness in HF myocytes compared to control myocytes. Spatially resolved subcellular Ca2+ mapping revealed that DCWs predominantly originated from coupled sites. Inhibition of CaMK∏ suppressed DCWs and prevented preferential stimulation of coupled sites in Iso-challenged HF myocytes. These results suggest that CaMK∏-(and phosphatase)-dependent dysregulation of junctional Ca2+ release sites contributes to Ca2+-dependent arrhythmogenesis in HF. PMID:28612155

  15. CO₂ uptake performance and life cycle assessment of CaO-based sorbents prepared from waste oyster shells blended with PMMA nanosphere scaffolds.

    PubMed

    Wang, Tsinghai; Xiao, Da-Cheng; Huang, Chih-Hung; Hsieh, Yi-Kong; Tan, Chung-Sung; Wang, Chu-Fang

    2014-04-15

    In this paper, we demonstrate a means of simultaneously solving two serious environmental issues by reutilization of calcinated mixture of pulverized waste oyster shells blending with poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) nanospheres to prepare CaO-based sorbents for CO2 capture. After 10 cycles of isothermal carbonation/calcination at 750°C, the greatest CO2 uptake (0.19 g CO2/g sorbent) was that for the sorbent featuring 70 wt% of PMMA, which was almost three times higher than that (0.07 g CO2/g sorbent) of untreated waste oyster shell. The greater CO2 uptake was likely a result of particle size reduction and afterwards surface basicity enhancement and an increase in the volume of mesopores and macropores. Following simplified life cycle assessment, whose all input values were collected from our experimental results, suggested that a significant CO2 emission reduction along with lesser human health and ecosystems impacts would be achieved immediately once waste is reutilized. Most importantly, the CO2 uptake efficiency must be greater than 20% or sorbents prepared from limestone mining would eventually produce a net positive CO2 emission. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  16. Characterization of cadmium uptake and cytotoxicity in human osteoblast-like MG-63 cells

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Levesque, Martine; Martineau, Corine; Jumarie, Catherine

    Since bone mass is maintained constant by the balance between osteoclastic bone resorption and osteoblastic bone formation, alterations in osteoblast proliferation and differentiation may disturb the equilibrium of bone remodeling. Exposure to cadmium (Cd) has been associated with the alteration of bone metabolism and the development of osteoporosis. Because little information is available about the direct effects of Cd on osteoblastic cells, we have characterized in vitro the cellular accumulation and cytotoxicity of Cd in human osteoblastic cells. Incubation of osteoblast-like MG-63 cells with increasing concentrations of Cd in serum-free culture medium reduced cell viability in a time- and concentration-dependentmore » manner, suggesting that Cd accumulates in osteoblasts. Consequently, an uptake time-course could be characterized for the cellular accumulation of {sup 109}Cd in serum-free culture medium. In order to characterize the mechanisms of Cd uptake, experiments have been conducted under well-defined metal speciation conditions in chloride and nitrate transport media. The results revealed a preferential uptake of Cd{sup 2+} species. The cellular accumulation and cytotoxicity of Cd increased in the absence of extracellular calcium (Ca), suggesting that Cd may enter the cells in part through Ca channels. However, neither the cellular accumulation nor the cytotoxicity of Cd was modified by voltage-dependent Ca channel (VDCC) modulators or potassium-induced depolarization. Moreover, exposure conditions activating or inhibiting capacitative Ca entry (CCE) failed to modify the cellular accumulation and cytotoxicity of Cd, which excludes the involvement of canonical transient receptor potential (TRPC) channels. The cellular accumulation and cytotoxicity of Cd were reduced by 2-APB, a known inhibitor of the Mg and Ca channel TRPM7 and were increased in the absence of extracellular magnesium (Mg). The inhibition of Cd uptake by Mg and Ca was not additive

  17. Molecular dynamics study of a heteroditopic-calix[4]diquinone-assisted transfer of KCl and dopamine through a water-chloroform liquid-liquid interface.

    PubMed

    Santos, Sérgio M; Costa, Paulo J; Lankshear, Michael D; Beer, Paul D; Félix, Vítor

    2010-09-02

    The ability of two heteroditopic calix[4]diquinone receptors to transport a KCl ion-pair and a dopamine zwitterion through a water-chloroform interface was investigated via molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. Gas-phase conformational analysis has been carried on KCl and dopamine receptor binding associations and the lowest energy structures found in both cases show that the recognition of KCl and dopamine zwitterion occurs through multiple and cooperative N-H...anion and O...cation bonding interactions, with the receptor adopting equivalent folded conformations stabilized by pi-stacking interactions. The unconstrained MD simulations performed on KCl and dopamine complexes inserted in either the chloroform or water phase revealed that receptors are preferentially located at the interface with the hydrophobic tert-butyl groups of the calix[4]diquinone moiety immersed in the chloroform bulk while the polar anion binding cavity is directed toward the water phase. When the KCl complex is placed in chloroform, the release of the ion-pair occurs only after the first contact with the water interface, being a nonsimultaneous event, with the chloride anion leaving the receptor before the potassium cation. The dopamine, via the -NH(3)(+) binding entity, remains bound to the receptor during the entire time of the MD simulation (10 ns). In contrast, when both complexes were inserted in the water bulk, the full release of KCl and dopamine are fast events. The potentials of mean force (PMFs), associated with the migration of the complexes from chloroform to water through the interface, were calculated from steered molecular dynamics (SMD) simulations. The PMFs for the free KCl and zwitterionic dopamine migrations were also obtained for comparison purposes. The transport of KCl from water to chloroform (the reverse path) mediated by the receptor has a free energy barrier estimated in 6.50 kcal mol(-1), which is 3.0 kcal mol(-1) smaller than that found for the free KCl. The

  18. Trafficking of α-Amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic Acid Receptor (AMPA) Receptor Subunit GluA2 from the Endoplasmic Reticulum Is Stimulated by a Complex Containing Ca2+/Calmodulin-activated Kinase II (CaMKII) and PICK1 Protein and by Release of Ca2+ from Internal Stores*

    PubMed Central

    Lu, Wei; Khatri, Latika; Ziff, Edward B.

    2014-01-01

    The GluA2 subunit of the AMPA receptor (AMPAR) dominantly blocks AMPAR Ca2+ permeability, and its trafficking to the synapse regulates AMPAR-dependent synapse Ca2+ permeability. Here we show that GluA2 trafficking from the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) to the plasma membrane of cultured hippocampal neurons requires Ca2+ release from internal stores, the activity of Ca2+/calmodulin activated kinase II (CaMKII), and GluA2 interaction with the PDZ protein, PICK1. We show that upon Ca2+ release from the ER via the IP3 and ryanodine receptors, CaMKII that is activated enters a complex that contains PICK1, dependent upon the PICK1 BAR (Bin-amphiphysin-Rvs) domain, and that interacts with the GluA2 C-terminal domain and stimulates GluA2 ER exit and surface trafficking. This study reveals a novel mechanism of regulation of trafficking of GluA2-containing receptors to the surface under the control of intracellular Ca2+ dynamics and CaMKII activity. PMID:24831007

  19. Attenuation of ischemia-reperfusion-induced alterations in intracellular Ca2+ in cardiomyocytes from hearts treated with N-acetylcysteine and N-mercaptopropionylglycine.

    PubMed

    Saini-Chohan, Harjot K; Dhalla, Naranjan S

    2009-12-01

    This study was undertaken to test whether Ca(2+)-handling abnormalities in cardiomyocytes after ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) are prevented by antioxidants such as N-acetyl L-cysteine (NAC), which is known to reduce oxidative stress by increasing the glutathione redox status, and N-(2-mercaptopropionyl)-glycine (MPG), which scavenges both peroxynitrite and hydroxyl radicals. For this purpose, isolated rat hearts were subjected to 30 min of global ischemia followed by 30 min of reperfusion, and cardiomyocytes were prepared to monitor changes in the intracellular concentration of free Ca(2+) ([Ca(2+)](i)). Marked depression in the left ventricular developed pressure and elevation in the left ventricular end-diastolic pressure in I/R hearts were attenuated by treatment with NAC or MPG. Cardiomyocytes obtained from I/R hearts showed an increase in the basal level of [Ca(2+)](i) as well as augmentation of the low Na(+)-induced increase in [Ca(2+)](i), with no change in the KCl-induced increase in [Ca(2+)](i). These I/R-induced alterations in Ca(2+) handling by cardiomyocytes were attenuated by treatment of hearts with NAC or MPG. Furthermore, reduction in the isoproterenol-, ATP-, ouabain-, and caffeine-induced increases in [Ca(2+)](i) in cardiomyocytes from I/R hearts were limited by treatment with NAC or MPG. The increases in the basal [Ca(2+)](i), unlike the KCl-induced increase in [Ca(2+)](i), were fully or partially prevented by both NAC and MPG upon exposing cardiomyocytes to hypoxia-reoxygenation, H(2)O(2), or a mixture of xanthine and xanthine oxidase. These results suggest that improvement in cardiac function of I/R hearts treated with NAC or MPG was associated with attenuation of changes in Ca(2+) handling by cardiomyocytes, and the results support the view that oxidative stress due to oxyradical generation and peroxynitrite formation plays an important role in the development of intracellular Ca(2+) overload in cardiomyocytes as a consequence of I/R injury.

  20. Control theory-based regulation of hippocampal CA1 nonlinear dynamics.

    PubMed

    Hsiao, Min-Chi; Song, Dong; Berger, Theodore W

    2008-01-01

    We are developing a biomimetic electronic neural prosthesis to replace regions of the hippocampal brain area that have been damaged by disease or insult. Our previous study has shown that the VLSI implementation of a CA3 nonlinear dynamic model can functionally replace the CA3 subregion of the hippocampal slice. As a result, the propagation of temporal patterns of activity from DG-->VLSI-->CA1 reproduces the activity observed experimentally in the biological DG-->CA3-->CA1 circuit. In this project, we incorporate an open-loop controller to optimize the output (CA1) response. Specifically, we seek to optimize the stimulation signal to CA1 using a predictive dentate gyrus (DG)-CA1 nonlinear model (i.e., DG-CA1 trajectory model) and a CA1 input-output model (i.e., CA1 plant model), such that the ultimate CA1 response (i.e., desired output) can be first predicted by the DG-CA1 trajectory model and then transformed to the desired stimulation through the inversed CA1 plant model. Lastly, the desired CA1 output is evoked by the estimated optimal stimulation. This study will be the first stage of formulating an integrated modeling-control strategy for the hippocampal neural prosthetic system.

  1. PI(4,5)P2-binding effector proteins for vesicle exocytosis

    PubMed Central

    Martin, Thomas F. J.

    2014-01-01

    PI(4,5)P2 participates directly in priming and possibly fusion steps of Ca2+-triggered vesicle exocytosis. High concentration nanodomains of PI(4,5)P2 reside on the plasma membrane of neuroendocrine cells. A subset of vesicles that co-localize with PI(4,5)P2 domains appear to undergo preferential exocytosis in stimulated cells. PI(4,5)P2 directly regulates vesicle exocytosis by recruiting and activating PI(4,5)P2-binding proteins that regulate SNARE protein function including CAPS, Munc13-1/2, synaptotagmin-1, and other C2 domain-containing proteins. These PI(4,5)P2 effector proteins are coincidence detectors that engage in multiple interactions at vesicle exocytic sites. The SNARE protein syntaxin-1 also binds to PI(4,5)P2, which promotes clustering, but an activating role for PI(4,5)P2 in syntaxin-1 function remains to be fully characterized. Similar principles underlie polarized constitutive vesicle fusion mediated in part by the PI(4,5)P2-binding subunits of the exocyst complex (Sec3, Exo70). Overall, focal vesicle exocytosis occurs at sites landmarked by PI(4,5)P2, which serves to recruit and/or activate multifunctional PI(4,5)P2-binding proteins. PMID:25280637

  2. Effect of surface charge on the colloidal stability and in vitro uptake of carboxymethyl dextran-coated iron oxide nanoparticles

    PubMed Central

    Ayala, Vanessa; Herrera, Adriana P.; Latorre-Esteves, Magda; Torres-Lugo, Madeline

    2013-01-01

    Nanoparticle physicochemical properties such as surface charge are considered to play an important role in cellular uptake and particle–cell interactions. In order to systematically evaluate the role of surface charge on the uptake of iron oxide nanoparticles, we prepared carboxymethyl-substituted dextrans with different degrees of substitution, ranging from 38 to 5 groups per chain, and reacted them using carbodiimide chemistry with amine–silane-coated iron oxide nanoparticles with narrow size distributions in the range of 33–45 nm. Surface charge of carboxymethyl-substituted dextran-coated nano-particles ranged from −50 to 5 mV as determined by zeta potential measurements, and was dependent on the number of carboxymethyl groups incorporated in the dextran chains. Nanoparticles were incubated with CaCo-2 human colon cancer cells. Nanoparticle–cell interactions were observed by confocal laser scanning microscopy and uptake was quantified by elemental analysis using inductively coupled plasma mass spectroscopy. Mechanisms of internalization were inferred using pharmacological inhibitors for fluid-phase, clathrin-mediated, and caveola-mediated endocytosis. Results showed increased uptake for nanoparticles with greater negative charge. Internalization patterns suggest that uptake of the most negatively charged particles occurs via non-specific interactions. PMID:24470787

  3. Modulation of local field potentials by high-frequency stimulation of afferent axons in the hippocampal CA1 region.

    PubMed

    Yu, Ying; Feng, Zhouyan; Cao, Jiayue; Guo, Zheshan; Wang, Zhaoxiang; Hu, Na; Wei, Xuefeng

    2016-03-01

    Modulation of the rhythmic activity of local field potentials (LFP) in neuronal networks could be a mechanism of deep brain stimulation (DBS). However, exact changes of LFP during the periods of high-frequency stimulation (HFS) of DBS are unclear because of the interference of dense stimulation artifacts with high amplitudes. In the present study, we investigated LFP changes induced by HFS of afferent axons in the hippocampal CA1 region of urethane-anesthetized rats by using a proper algorithm of artifact removal. Afterward, the LFP changes in the frequency bands of [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] rhythms were studied by power spectrum analysis and coherence analysis for the recorded signals collected in the pyramidal layer and in the stratum radiatum of CA1 region before, during and after 1-min long 100 and 200[Formula: see text]Hz HFS. Results showed that the power of LFP rhythms in higher-frequency band ([Formula: see text] rhythm) increased in the pyramidal layer and the power of LFP rhythms in lower-frequency bands ([Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] rhythms) decreased in the stratum radiatum during HFS. The synchronization of [Formula: see text] rhythm decreased and the synchronization of [Formula: see text] rhythm increased during HFS in the stratum radiatum. These results suggest that axonal HFS could modulate LFP rhythms in the downstream brain areas with a plausible underlying mechanism of partial axonal blockage induced by HFS. The study provides new evidence to support the mechanism of DBS modulating rhythmic activity of neuronal populations.

  4. Development of a method to evaluate glutamate receptor function in rat barrel cortex slices.

    PubMed

    Lehohla, M; Russell, V; Kellaway, L; Govender, A

    2000-12-01

    The rat is a nocturnal animal and uses its vibrissae extensively to navigate its environment. The vibrissae are linked to a highly organized part of the sensory cortex, called the barrel cortex which contains spiny neurons that receive whisker specific thalamic input and distribute their output mainly within the cortical column. The aim of the present study was to develop a method to evaluate glutamate receptor function in the rat barrel cortex. Long Evans rats (90-160 g) were killed by cervical dislocation and decapitated. The brain was rapidly removed, cooled in a continuously oxygenated, ice-cold Hepes buffer (pH 7.4) and sliced using a vibratome to produce 0.35 mm slices. The barrel cortex was dissected from slices corresponding to 8.6 to 4.8 mm anterior to the interaural line and divided into rostral, middle and caudal regions. Depolarization-induced uptake of 45Ca2+ was achieved by incubating test slices in a high K+ (62.5 mM) buffer for 2 minutes at 35 degrees C. Potassium-stimulated uptake of 45Ca2+ into the rostral region was significantly lower than into middle and caudal regions of the barrel cortex. Glutamate had no effect. NMDA significantly increased uptake of 45Ca2+ into all regions of the barrel cortex. The technique is useful in determining NMDA receptor function and will be applied to study differences between spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) that are used as a model for attention deficit disorder and their normotensive control rats.

  5. Role of Phosphate and Other Proton-Donating Anions in Respiration-Coupled Transport of Ca2+ by Mitochondria

    PubMed Central

    Lehninger, Albert L.

    1974-01-01

    Measurements of extra oxygen consumption, 45Ca2+ uptake, and the osmotic expansion of the matrix compartment show that not all permeant anions are capable of supporting and accompanying the energy-dependent transport of Ca2+ from the medium into the matrix in respiring rat-liver mitochondria. Phosphate, arsenate, acetate, butyrate, β-hydroxybutyrate, lactate, and bicarbonate + CO2 supported Ca2+ uptake, whereas the permeant anions, nitrate, thiocyanate, chlorate, and perchlorate, did not. The active anions share a common denominator, the potential ability to donate a proton to the mitochondrial matrix; the inactive anions lack this capacity. Phosphate and the other active permeant anions move into the matrix in response to the alkaline-inside electrochemical gradient of protons generated across the mitochondrial membrane by electron transport, thus forming a negative-inside anion gradient. It is postulated that the latter gradient is the immediate “pulling” force for the influx of Ca2+ on the electrogenic Ca2+ carrier in respiring mitochondria under intracellular conditions. Since mitochondria in the cell are normally exposed to an excess of phosphate (and the bicarbonate-CO2 system), particularly in state 4, inward transport of these proton-yielding anions probably precedes and is necessary for inward transport of Ca2+ and other cations under biological conditions. These observations indicate that a negative-inside gradient of phosphate generated by electron transport is a common step and provides the immediate motive power not only for (a) the inward transport of dicarboxylates and tricarboxylates and (b) the energy-dependent exchange of external ADP3- for internal ATP4- during oxidative phosphorylation, as has already been established, but also for (c) the inward transport of Ca2+, K+, and other cations. PMID:4364542

  6. Voltage inactivation of Ca2+ entry and secretion associated with N- and P/Q-type but not L-type Ca2+ channels of bovine chromaffin cells

    PubMed Central

    Villarroya, Mercedes; Olivares, Román; Ruíz, Ana; Cano-Abad, María F; de Pascual, Ricardo; Lomax, Richard B; López, Manuela G; Mayorgas, Inés; Gandía, Luis; García, Antonio G

    1999-01-01

    In this study we pose the question of why the bovine adrenal medullary chromaffin cell needs various subtypes (L, N, P, Q) of the neuronal high-voltage activated Ca2+ channels to control a given physiological function, i.e. the exocytotic release of catecholamines. One plausible hypothesis is that Ca2+ channel subtypes undergo different patterns of inactivation during cell depolarization. The net Ca2+ uptake (measured using 45Ca2+) into hyperpolarized cells (bathed in a nominally Ca2+-free solution containing 1·2 mM K+) after application of a Ca2+ pulse (5 s exposure to 100 mM K+ and 2 mM Ca2+), amounted to 0·65 ± 0·02 fmol cell−1; in depolarized cells (bathed in nominally Ca2+-free solution containing 100 mM K+) the net Ca2+ uptake was 0·16 ± 0·01 fmol cell−1. This was paralleled by a dramatic reduction of the increase in the cytosolic Ca2+ concentration, [Ca2+]i, caused by Ca2+ pulses applied to fura-2-loaded single cells, from 1181 ± 104 nM in hyperpolarized cells to 115 ± 9 nM in depolarized cells. A similar decrease was observed when studying catecholamine release. Secretion was decreased when K+ concentration was increased from 1·2 to 100 mM; the Ca2+ pulse caused, when comparing the extreme conditions, the secretion of 807 ± 35 nA of catecholamines in hyperpolarized cells and 220 ± 19 nA in depolarized cells. The inactivation by depolarization of Ca2+ entry and secretion occluded the blocking effects of combined ω-conotoxin GVIA (1 μM) and ω-agatoxin IVA (2 μM), thus suggesting that depolarization caused a selective inactivation of the N- and P/Q-type Ca2+ channels. This was strengthened by two additional findings: (i) nifedipine (3 μM), an L-type Ca2+ channel blocker, suppressed the fraction of Ca2+ entry (24 %) and secretion (27 %) left unblocked by depolarization; (ii) FPL64176 (3 μM), an L-type Ca2+ channel ‘activator’, dramatically enhanced the entry of Ca2+ and the secretory response in depolarized cells. In voltage

  7. Epidermal growth factor (EGF) stimulated Ca/sup 2 +/ mobilization in hepatocytes is abolished by phorbol esters, pertussis toxin and partial hepatectomy

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Johnson, R.M.; Garrison, J.C.

    1986-05-01

    EGF has been demonstrated to increase free intracellular Ca/sup 2 +/ levels in isolated hepatocytes putatively by generation of the second messenger inositol trisphosphate (IP/sub 3/). Pretreatment of cells with phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA) inhibited the EGF (66 nM) stimulated Ca/sup 2 +/ response as measured by quin2. Inhibition by PMA was maximal within 3 min and was concentration dependent (IC/sub 50/ = 13.5 nM). Four other active phorbol ester analogues blocked the Ca/sup 2 +/ response while inactive analogues did not. EGF was unable to increase intracellular Ca/sup 2 +/ levels in hepatocytes isolated from rats treated with pertussismore » toxin for 72 hrs. Neither PMA nor toxin pretreatment was able to inhibit the Ca/sup 2 +/ response to angiotensin II (Ang II). In hepatocytes isolated 24 hrs after partial hepatectomy, the Ca/sup 2 +/ response to EGF (as measured by phosphorylase activity, EC/sub 50/ = 5 nM) was completely abolished and remained attenuated for 7 days post-hepatectomy. The Ca/sup 2 +/ response to Ang II in this model system was also blunted but required 3 days for development of the full effect and within 7 days full activity is nearly restored. The results suggest that fundamental differences exist in the transduction mechanisms used by these two Ca/sup 2 +/-linked hormones to mobilize intracellular Ca/sup 2 +/ (and putatively increase IP/sub 3/ formation).« less

  8. A neuronal lactate uptake inhibitor slows recovery of extracellular ion concentration changes in the hippocampal CA3 region by affecting energy metabolism

    PubMed Central

    Angamo, Eskedar Ayele; Rösner, Joerg; Liotta, Agustin; Kovács, Richard

    2016-01-01

    Astrocyte-derived lactate supports pathologically enhanced neuronal metabolism, but its role under physiological conditions is still a matter of debate. Here, we determined the contribution of astrocytic neuronal lactate shuttle for maintenance of ion homeostasis and energy metabolism. We tested for the effects of α-cyano-4-hydroxycinnamic acid (4-CIN), which could interfere with energy metabolism by blocking monocarboxylate-transporter 2 (MCT2)-mediated neuronal lactate uptake, on evoked potentials, stimulus-induced changes in K+, Na+, Ca2+, and oxygen concentrations as well as on changes in flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD) autofluorescence in the hippocampal area CA3. MCT2 blockade by 4-CIN reduced synaptically evoked but not antidromic population spikes. This effect was dependent on the activation of KATP channels indicating reduced neuronal ATP synthesis. By contrast, lactate receptor activation by 3,5-dihydroxybenzoic acid (3,5-DHBA) resulted in increased antidromic and orthodromic population spikes suggesting that 4-CIN effects are not mediated by lactate accumulation and subsequent activation of lactate receptors. Recovery kinetics of all ion transients were prolonged and baseline K+ concentration became elevated by blockade of lactate uptake. Lactate contributed to oxidative metabolism as both baseline respiration and stimulus-induced changes in Po2 were decreased, while FAD fluorescence increased likely due to a reduced conversion of FAD into FADH2. These data suggest that lactate shuttle contributes to regulation of ion homeostatsis and synaptic signaling even in the presence of ample glucose. PMID:27559140

  9. Densities of L-Glutamic Acid HCl Drug in Aqueous NaCl and KCl Solutions at Different Temperatures

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ryshetti, Suresh; Raghuram, Noothi; Rani, Emmadi Jayanthi; Tangeda, Savitha Jyostna

    2016-04-01

    Densities (ρ ) of (0.01 to 0.07) {mol}{\\cdot } {kg}^{-1} L-Glutamic acid HCl (L-HCl) drug in water, and in aqueous NaCl and KCl (0.5 and 1.0) {mol}{\\cdot } {kg}^{-1} solutions have been reported as a function of temperature at T = (298.15, 303.15, 308.15, and 313.15) K and atmospheric pressure. The accurate density (ρ ) values are used to estimate the various parameters such as the apparent molar volume (V_{2,{\\upphi }}), the partial molar volume (V2^{∞}), the isobaric thermal expansion coefficient (α 2), the partial molar expansion (E2^{∞}), and Hepler's constant (partial 2V2^{∞}/partial T2)P. The Cosphere overlap model is used to understand the solute-solvent interactions in a ternary mixture (L-HCl drug + NaCl or KCl + water). Hepler's constant (partial 2V2^{∞}/partial T2)_P is utilized to interpret the structure-making or -breaking ability of L-HCl drug in aqueous NaCl and KCl solutions, and the results are inferred that L-HCl drug acts as a structure maker, i.e., kosmotrope in aqueous NaCl solutions and performs as a structure breaker, i.e., chaotrope in aqueous KCl solutions.

  10. Kinetic changes in tetanic Ca2+ transients in enzymatically dissociated muscle fibres under repetitive stimulation

    PubMed Central

    Calderón, Juan C; Bolaños, Pura; Caputo, Carlo

    2011-01-01

    Abstract We used enzymatically dissociated flexor digitorum brevis (FDB) and soleus fibres loaded with the fast Ca2+ dye Magfluo-4 AM, and adhered to Laminin, to test whether repetitive stimulation induces progressive changes in the kinetics of Ca2+ release and reuptake in a fibre-type-dependent fashion. We applied a protocol of tetani of 350 ms, 100 Hz, every 4 s to reach a mean amplitude reduction of 25% of the first peak. Morphology type I (MT-I) and morphology type II (MT-II) fibres underwent a total of 96 and 52.8 tetani (P < 0.01 between groups), respectively. The MT-II fibres (n = 18) showed significant reductions of the amplitude (19%), an increase in rise time (8.5%) and a further reduction of the amplitude/rise time ratio (25.5%) of the first peak of the tetanic transient after 40 tetani, while MT-I fibres (n = 5) did not show any of these changes. However, both fibre types showed significant reductions in the maximum rate of rise of the first peak after 40 tetani. Two subpopulations among the MT-II fibres could be distinguished according to Ca2+ reuptake changes. Fast-fatigable MT-II fibres (fMT-II) showed an increase of 32.2% in the half-width value of the first peak, while for fatigue-resistant MT-II fibres (rMT-II), the increase amounted to 6.9%, both after 40 tetani. Significant and non-significant increases of 36.4% and 11.9% in the first time constant of decay (t1) values were seen after 40 tetani in fMT-II and rMT-II fibres, respectively. MT-I fibres did not show kinetic changes in any of the Ca2+ reuptake variables. All changes were reversed after an average recovery of 7.5 and 15.4 min for MT-I and MT-II fibres, respectively. Further experiments ruled out the possibility that the differences in the kinetic changes of the first peak of the Ca2+ transients between fibres MT-I and MT-II could be related to the inactivation of Ca2+ release mechanism. In conclusion, we established a model of enzymatically dissociated fibres, loaded with Magfluo-4 and

  11. Increasing Sucrose Uptake Capacity of Wheat Grains Stimulates Storage Protein Synthesis1[W

    PubMed Central

    Weichert, Nicola; Saalbach, Isolde; Weichert, Heiko; Kohl, Stefan; Erban, Alexander; Kopka, Joachim; Hause, Bettina; Varshney, Alok; Sreenivasulu, Nese; Strickert, Marc; Kumlehn, Jochen; Weschke, Winfriede; Weber, Hans

    2010-01-01

    Increasing grain sink strength by improving assimilate uptake capacity could be a promising approach toward getting higher yield. The barley (Hordeum vulgare) sucrose transporter HvSUT1 (SUT) was expressed under control of the endosperm-specific Hordein B1 promoter (HO). Compared with the wild type, transgenic HOSUT grains take up more sucrose (Suc) in vitro, showing that the transgene is functional. Grain Suc levels are not altered, indicating that Suc fluxes are influenced rather than steady-state levels. HOSUT grains have increased percentages of total nitrogen and prolamins, which is reflected in increased levels of phenylalanine, tyrosine, tryptophan, isoleucine, and leucine at late grain development. Transcript profiling indicates specific stimulation of prolamin gene expression at the onset of storage phase. Changes in gene expression and metabolite levels related to carbon metabolism and amino acid biosynthesis suggest deregulated carbon-nitrogen balance, which together indicate carbon sufficiency and relative depletion of nitrogen. Genes, deregulated together with prolamin genes, might represent candidates, which respond positively to assimilate supply and are related to sugar-starch metabolism, cytokinin and brassinosteroid functions, cell proliferation, and sugar/abscisic acid signaling. Genes showing inverse expression patterns represent potential negative regulators. It is concluded that HvSUT1 overexpression increases grain protein content but also deregulates the metabolic status of wheat (Triticum aestivum) grains, accompanied by up-regulated gene expression of positive and negative regulators related to sugar signaling and assimilate supply. In HOSUT grains, alternating stimulation of positive and negative regulators causes oscillatory patterns of gene expression and highlights the capacity and great flexibility to adjust wheat grain storage metabolism in response to metabolic alterations. PMID:20018590

  12. Evaluation of the KCl Denuder Method for Gaseous Oxidized Mercury using HgBr2 at an In-Service AMNet Site

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    McClure, Crystal

    During the summer of 2013, we examined the performance of KCl-coated denuders for measuring gaseous oxidized mercury (GOM) by calibrating with a known source of GOM (i.e., HgBr2) at the North Birmingham SouthEastern Aerosol Research and Characterization (SEARCH) site. We found that KCl-coated denuders have near 95% collection efficiency for HgBr2 in zero air (i.e., air scrubbed of mercury and ozone). However, in ambient air, the efficiency of KCl-coated denuders in capturing HgBr2 dropped to 20-54%. We also found that absolute humidity and ozone each demonstrate a significant inverse correlation with HgBr2 recovery in ambient air. Subsequent laboratory tests with HgBr2 and the KCl-coated denuder show that ozone and absolute humidity cause the release of gaseous elemental Hg from the denuder and thus appear to explain the low recovery in ambient air. Based on these findings, we infer that the KCl denuder method underestimates atmospheric GOM concentrations. A calibration system is needed to accurately measure GOM. The system described in this paper for HgBr2 could be implemented with existing mercury speciation instrumentation and this would improve our knowledge of the response to one potentially important GOM compound.

  13. Microscale characterization of dissolved organic matter production and uptake in marine microbial mat communities

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Paerl, H. W.; Bebout, B. M.; Joye, S. B.; Des Marais, D. J.

    1993-01-01

    Intertidal marine microbial mats exhibited biologically mediated uptake of low molecular weight dissolved organic matter (DOM), including D-glucose, acetate, and an L-amino acid mixture at trace concentrations. Uptake of all compounds occurred in darkness, but was frequently enhanced under natural illumination. The photosystem 2 inhibitor, 3-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)-1,1-dimethyl urea (DCMU) generally failed to inhibit light-stimulated DOM uptake. Occasionally, light plus DCMU-amended treatments led to uptake rates higher than light-incubated samples, possibly due to phototrophic bacteria present in subsurface anoxic layers. Uptake was similar with either 3H- or 14C-labeled substrates, indicating that recycling of labeled CO2 via photosynthetic fixation was not interfering with measurements of light-stimulated DOM uptake. Microautoradiographs showed a variety of pigmented and nonpigmented bacteria and, to a lesser extent, cyanobacteria and eucaryotic microalgae involved in light-mediated DOM uptake. Light-stimulated DOM uptake was often observed in bacteria associated with sheaths and mucilage surrounding filamentous cyanobacteria, revealing a close association of organisms taking up DOM with photoautotrophic members of the mat community. The capacity for dark- and light-mediated heterotrophy, coupled to efficient retention of fixed carbon in the mat community, may help optimize net production and accretion of mats, even in oligotrophic waters.

  14. Crosslinking by ligands to surface immunoglobulin triggers mobilization of intracellular 45Ca2+ in B lymphocytes

    PubMed Central

    1979-01-01

    Detailed studies of steady-state ion fluxes in murine lymphocytes were used to examine for possible ionic changes generated by surface Ig, the antigen receptor of B lymphocytes. When bound by ligands, surface Ig triggered the mobilization and release of 45Ca2+ from the cell interior by a transmembrane process requiring crosslinking of the bound receptors. This ionic event was unique for two reasons: (a) it did not occur when other common lymphocyte surface macromolecules were bound with rabbit anti-lymphocyte antibodies; and (b) it was not accompanied by a general perturbation of lymphocyte ionic properties such as a change in 42K+ fluxes nor did it depend on the presence of extracellular ions. Capping of surface Ig shares the same time sequence, dose response, requirement for crosslinking, and lack of dependence on extracellular ions. These correlations suggest that mobilization of intracellular Ca2+ may represent an early ionic signal for the contractile activation of lymphocytes that generates capping of surface Ig. PMID:315942

  15. Integrated Data Collection Analysis (IDCA) Program - KClO 4/Carbon Mixture

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Sandstrom, Mary M.; Brown, Geoffrey W.; Preston, Daniel N.

    The Integrated Data Collection Analysis (IDCA) program is conducting a proficiency study for Small- Scale Safety and Thermal (SSST) testing of homemade explosives (HMEs). Described here are the results for impact, friction, electrostatic discharge, and differential scanning calorimetry analysis of a mixture of KClO 4 and activated carbon—KClO 4/C mixture. This material was selected because of the challenge of performing SSST testing of a mixture of two solids. The mixture was found to be insensitive to impact, friction, and thermal stimulus, and somewhat sensitive to spark discharge. This effort, funded by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), ultimately will putmore » the issues of safe handling of these materials in perspective with standard military explosives. The study is adding SSST testing results for a broad suite of different HMEs to the literature. Ultimately the study has the potential to suggest new guidelines and methods and possibly establish the SSST testing accuracies needed to develop safe handling practices for HMEs. Each participating testing laboratory uses identical test materials and preparation methods wherever possible. Note, however, the test procedures differ among the laboratories. The results are compared among the laboratories and then compared to historical data from various sources. The testing performers involved for the KClO 4/carbon mixture are Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL), Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL), Indian Head Division, Naval Surface Warfare Center, (NSWC IHD), and Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL/RXQL). These tests are conducted as a proficiency study in order to establish some consistency in test protocols, procedures, and experiments and to understand how to compare results when these testing variables cannot be made consistent.« less

  16. Tangeretin stimulates glucose uptake via regulation of AMPK signaling pathways in C2C12 myotubes and improves glucose tolerance in high-fat diet-induced obese mice.

    PubMed

    Kim, Myung Sunny; Hur, Haeng Jeon; Kwon, Dae Young; Hwang, Jin-Taek

    2012-07-06

    Although the flavonoid tangeretin (5, 6, 7, 8, 4'-pentamethoxyflavone) is known to possess beneficial health effects, the anti-diabetic effects and the mechanism of action have not been elucidated. Treatment with 100 μM tangeretin significantly increased the uptake of 2-NBDG in C2C12 myotubes. We also found that AMPK and AS160 were markedly phosphorylated by tangeretin treatment. In addition, pretreatment with an AMPK inhibitor significantly abrogated tangeretin-stimulated AS160 phosphorylation, glucose uptake, and Glut4 translocation from the cytosol to the plasma membrane. Furthermore, disruption of AMPK using siRNA transfection prevented the glucose uptake stimulated by tangeretin. We also examined the anti-diabetic properties of tangeretin in mice on HFD. Administration of HFD plus 200 mg/kg of tangeretin significantly altered weight gain, glucose tolerance, total cholesterol levels, and the secretion of adipocytokines, such as adiponectin, leptin, resistin, IL-6, and MCP-1. Moreover, AMPK was activated by 200 mg/kg of tangeretin in mouse muscle tissue, as expected from the cell system. These results suggest that tangeretin exerts anti-diabetic effects in both cell culture and mouse models, and these effects are necessary for activating AMPK. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

  17. Uncertainties of Gaseous Oxidized Mercury Measurements Using KCl-Coated Denuders, Cation-Exchange Membranes, and Nylon Membranes: Humidity Influences.

    PubMed

    Huang, Jiaoyan; Gustin, Mae Sexauer

    2015-05-19

    Quantifying the concentration of gaseous oxidized mercury (GOM) and identifying the chemical compounds in the atmosphere are important for developing accurate local, regional, and global biogeochemical cycles. The major hypothesis driving this work was that relative humidity affects collection of GOM on KCl-coated denuders and nylon membranes, both currently being applied to measure GOM. Using a laboratory manifold system and ambient air, GOM capture efficiency on 3 different collection surfaces, including KCl-coated denuders, nylon membranes, and cation-exchange membranes, was investigated at relative humidity ranging from 25 to 75%. Recovery of permeated HgBr2 on KCl-coated denuders declined by 4-60% during spikes of relative humidity (25 to 75%). When spikes were turned off GOM recoveries returned to 60 ± 19% of permeated levels. In some cases, KCl-coated denuders were gradually passivated over time after additional humidity was applied. In this study, GOM recovery on nylon membranes decreased with high humidity and ozone concentrations. However, additional humidity enhanced GOM recovery on cation-exchange membranes. In addition, reduction and oxidation of elemental mercury during experiments was observed. The findings in this study can help to explain field observations in previous studies.

  18. Gq protein mediates UVB-induced cyclooxygenase-2 expression by stimulating HB-EGF secretion from HaCaT human keratinocytes

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Seo, MiRan; Juhnn, Yong-Sung, E-mail: juhnn@snu.ac.kr

    Ultraviolet (UV) radiation induces cyclooxygenase-2 expression to produce cellular responses including aging and carcinogenesis in skin. We hypothesised that heterotrimeric G proteins mediate UV-induced COX-2 expression by stimulating secretion of soluble HB-EGF (sHB-EGF). In this study, we aimed to elucidate the role and underlying mechanism of the {alpha} subunit of Gq protein (G{alpha}q) in UVB-induced HB-EGF secretion and COX-2 induction. We found that expression of constitutively active G{alpha}q (G{alpha}qQL) augmented UVB-induced HB-EGF secretion, which was abolished by knockdown of G{alpha}q with shRNA in HaCaT human keratinocytes. G{alpha}q was found to mediate the UVB-induced HB-EGF secretion by sequential activation of phospholipasemore » C (PLC), protein kinase C{delta} (PKC{delta}), and matrix metaloprotease-2 (MMP-2). Moreover, G{alpha}qQL mediated UVB-induced COX-2 expression in an HB-EGF-, EGFR-, and p38-dependent manner. From these results, we concluded that G{alpha}q mediates UV-induced COX-2 expression through activation of EGFR by HB-EGF, of which ectodomain shedding was stimulated through sequential activation of PLC, PKC{delta} and MMP-2 in HaCaT cells.« less

  19. Influence of Tl+ activator ions on the luminescence characteristics of KCl0.5Br0.5:Eu2+ powder phosphors.

    PubMed

    Nagarajan, S; Sudarkodi, R

    2009-01-01

    Photoluminescence (PL) of thallium co-doped with KCl0.5Br0.5:Eu2+ powder phosphors display emission bands at 320 and 370 nm attributable to centres involving Tl+ ions in addition to characteristic Eu2+ emission around 420 nm. Additional PL excitation and emission bandS observed around 260 and 380 nm, respectively, were observed in the double-doped KCl0.5Br0.5:Eu2+, Tl+ powder phosphors and are attributed to complex centres involving Tl+ and Eu2+ ions. The enhancement observed in the intensity of Eu2+ emission around 420 nm with the addition of TlBr in KCl0.5Br0.5:Eu2+ powder phosphors is attributed to the energy transfer from Tl+ --> Eu2+ ions. Photostimulated luminescence (PSL) studies of gamma-irradiated KCl0.5Br0.5:Eu2+, Tl+ mixed phosphors are reported and a tentative PSL mechanism in the phosphors has been suggested.

  20. Induction of Ca2+-dependent cyclosporin A-insensitive nonspecific permeability of the inner membrane of liver mitochondria and cytochrome c release by α,ω-hexadecanedioic acid in media of varying ionic strength.

    PubMed

    Dubinin, M V; Vedernikov, A A; Khoroshavina, E I; Samartsev, V N

    2014-06-01

    In liver mitochondria loaded with Ca2+ or Sr(2+), α,ω-hexadecanedioic acid (HDA) can induce nonspecific permeability of the inner membrane (mitochondrial pore) by the mechanism insensitive to cyclosporin A (CsA). In this work we studied the effect of ionic strength of the incubation medium on the kinetics of the processes that accompany Ca2+-dependent induction of the mitochondrial pore by fatty acid: organelle swelling, Ca2+ release from the matrix, changes in transmembrane potential (Δψ) and rate of oxygen consumption, and the release of cytochrome c from the intermembrane space. Two basic incubation media were used: sucrose medium and isotonic ionic medium containing KCl without sucrose. We found that 200 μM Ca2+ and 20 μM HDA in the presence of CsA effectively induce high-amplitude swelling of mitochondria both in the case of sucrose and in the ionic incubation medium. In the presence of CsA, mitochondria can rapidly absorb Ca2+ and retain it in the matrix for a while without reducing Δψ. Upon incubation in the ionic medium, mitochondria retain most of the added Ca2+ in the matrix for a short time without reducing the Δψ. In both cases the addition of HDA to the mitochondria 2 min after the introduction of Ca2+ leads to the rapid release of these ions from the matrix and total drop in Δψ. The mitochondrial swelling induced by Ca2+ and HDA in non-ionic medium is accompanied by almost maximal stimulation of respiration. Under the same conditions, but during incubation of mitochondria in the ionic medium, it is necessary to add cytochrome c for significant stimulation of respiration. The mitochondrial swelling induced by Ca2+ and HDA leads to the release of cytochrome c in a larger amount in the case of ionic medium than for the sucrose medium. We conclude that high ionic strength of the incubation medium determines the massive release of cytochrome c from mitochondria and liberates it from the respiratory chain, which leads to blockade of electron

  1. Novel single skeletal muscle fiber analysis reveals a fiber type-selective effect of acute exercise on glucose uptake.

    PubMed

    Cartee, Gregory D; Arias, Edward B; Yu, Carmen S; Pataky, Mark W

    2016-11-01

    One exercise session can induce subsequently elevated insulin sensitivity that is largely attributable to greater insulin-stimulated glucose uptake by skeletal muscle. Because skeletal muscle is a heterogeneous tissue comprised of diverse fiber types, our primary aim was to determine exercise effects on insulin-independent and insulin-dependent glucose uptake by single fibers of different fiber types. We hypothesized that each fiber type featuring elevated insulin-independent glucose uptake immediately postexercise (IPEX) would be characterized by increased insulin-dependent glucose uptake at 3.5 h postexercise (3.5hPEX). Rat epitrochlearis muscles were isolated and incubated with 2-[ 3 H]deoxyglucose. Muscles from IPEX and sedentary (SED) controls were incubated without insulin. Muscles from 3.5hPEX and SED controls were incubated ± insulin. Glucose uptake (2-[ 3 H]deoxyglucose accumulation) and fiber type (myosin heavy chain isoform expression) were determined for single fibers dissected from the muscles. Major new findings included the following: 1) insulin-independent glucose uptake was increased IPEX in single fibers of each fiber type (types I, IIA, IIB, IIBX, and IIX), 2) glucose uptake values from insulin-stimulated type I and IIA fibers exceeded the values for the other fiber types, 3) insulin-stimulated glucose uptake for type IIX exceeded IIB fibers, and 4) the 3.5hPEX group vs. SED had greater insulin-stimulated glucose uptake in type I, IIA, IIB, and IIBX but not type IIX fibers. Insulin-dependent glucose uptake was increased at 3.5hPEX in each fiber type except for IIX fibers, although insulin-independent glucose uptake was increased IPEX in all fiber types (including type IIX). Single fiber analysis enabled the discovery of this fiber type-related difference for postexercise, insulin-stimulated glucose uptake. Copyright © 2016 the American Physiological Society.

  2. Direct, rapid effects of 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 on isolated intestinal cells.

    PubMed

    Phadnis, Ruta; Nemere, Ilka

    2003-10-01

    Scattered reports in the literature have suggested that the metabolite 25-hydroxyvitamin D(3) [25(OH)D(3)] has biological activity. In the present work, perfusion of isolated duodenal loops of normal chickens with 100 nM 25(OH)D(3) resulted in enhanced transport of (45)Ca within 2 min relative to the vehicle controls. We then tested the effect of a range of 25(OH)D(3) concentrations on (45)Ca handling by isolated intestinal cells in time course studies. Following a basal uptake period, cell suspensions from 7-week old chicks were treated either with 25, 100, or 300 nM 25(OH)D(3), or the vehicle ethanol (0.01%, final concentration). Both 25 and 100 nM 25(OH)D(3) resulted in a significant (P < 0.05) reduction in (45)Ca levels, relative to controls, between 1-10 min after treatment, while 300 nM 25(OH)D(3) resulted in a significant increase in (45)Ca levels, relative to controls, after 10 min of incubation. The effect of 100 nM 25(OH)D(3) (a physiological level) on cell calcium was abolished by the presence of 6.5 nM 24,25-dihydroxyvitamin D(3). In cell preparations from 14- or 28-week old birds 100nM 25(OH)D(3) had no effect, relative to vehicle controls. Incubation of cells with 2 microM BAY K8644, a calcium channel activator, stimulated (45)Ca uptake within 3 min relative to vehicle controls (P < 0.05), while addition of either 20 microM forskolin or 100 nM phorbol ester (stimulators of the PKA and PKC pathways, respectively) resulted in enhanced radionuclide levels after 10 min of incubation (P < 0.05, relative to corresponding controls). Finally, cells were treated with 100 nM 25(OH)D(3) or vehicle and samples taken at various times for analyses of protein kinase C and A activities. No effect of 25(OH)D(3) on protein kinase C activity was observed, while protein kinase A activity was stimulated to nearly 200% of controls at 1 min after 25(OH)D(3) addition (P < 0.05, relative to corresponding controls) and began declining at 3 min, returning to control levels 5

  3. Ca2+-Citrate Uptake and Metabolism in Lactobacillus casei ATCC 334

    PubMed Central

    Mortera, Pablo; Pudlik, Agata; Magni, Christian; Alarcón, Sergio

    2013-01-01

    The putative citrate metabolic pathway in Lactobacillus casei ATCC 334 consists of the transporter CitH, a proton symporter of the citrate-divalent metal ion family of transporters CitMHS, citrate lyase, and the membrane-bound oxaloacetate decarboxylase complex OAD-ABDH. Resting cells of Lactobacillus casei ATCC 334 metabolized citrate in complex with Ca2+ and not as free citrate or the Mg2+-citrate complex, thereby identifying Ca2+-citrate as the substrate of the transporter CitH. The pathway was induced in the presence of Ca2+ and citrate during growth and repressed by the presence of glucose and of galactose, most likely by a carbon catabolite repression mechanism. The end products of Ca2+-citrate metabolism by resting cells of Lb. casei were pyruvate, acetate, and acetoin, demonstrating the activity of the membrane-bound oxaloacetate decarboxylase complex OAD-ABDH. Following pyruvate, the pathway splits into two branches. One branch is the classical citrate fermentation pathway producing acetoin by α-acetolactate synthase and α-acetolactate decarboxylase. The other branch yields acetate, for which the route is still obscure. Ca2+-citrate metabolism in a modified MRS medium lacking a carbohydrate did not significantly affect the growth characteristics, and generation of metabolic energy in the form of proton motive force (PMF) was not observed in resting cells. In contrast, carbohydrate/Ca2+-citrate cometabolism resulted in a higher biomass yield in batch culture. However, also with these cells, no generation of PMF was associated with Ca2+-citrate metabolism. It is concluded that citrate metabolism in Lb. casei is beneficial when it counteracts acidification by carbohydrate metabolism in later growth stages. PMID:23709502

  4. Development of a neuromuscular electrical stimulation protocol for sprint training.

    PubMed

    Russ, David W; Clark, Brian C; Krause, Jodi; Hagerman, Fredrick C

    2012-09-01

    Sprint training is associated with several beneficial adaptations in skeletal muscle, including an enhancement of sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) Ca(2+) release. Unfortunately, several patient populations (e.g., the elderly, those with cardiac dysfunction) that might derive great benefit from sprint exercise are unlikely to tolerate it. The purpose of this report was to describe the development of a tolerable neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) protocol that induces skeletal muscle adaptations similar to those observed with sprint training. Our NMES protocol was modeled after a published sprint exercise protocol and used a novel electrode configuration and stimulation sequence to provide adequate training stimulus while maintaining subject tolerance. Nine young, healthy subjects (four men) began and completed the training protocol of the knee extensor muscles. All subjects completed the protocol, with ratings of discomfort far less than those reported in studies of traditional NMES. Training induced significant increases in SR Ca(2+) release and citrate synthase activity (~16% and 32%, respectively), but SR Ca(2+) uptake did not change. The percentage of myosin heavy chain IIx isoform was decreased significantly after training. At the whole muscle level, neither central activation nor maximum voluntary isometric contraction force were significantly altered, although isometric force did exhibit a trend toward an increase (~3%, P = 0.055). Surprisingly, the NMES training produced a significant increase in muscle cross-sectional area (~3%, P = 0.04). It seems that an appropriately designed NMES protocol can mimic many of the benefits of sprint exercise training, with a low overall time commitment and training volume. These findings suggest that NMES has the potential to bring the benefits of sprint exercise to individuals who are unable to tolerate traditional sprint training.

  5. Stimulus-dependent regulation of nuclear Ca2+ signaling in cardiomyocytes: a role of neuronal calcium sensor-1.

    PubMed

    Nakao, Shu; Wakabayashi, Shigeo; Nakamura, Tomoe Y

    2015-01-01

    In cardiomyocytes, intracellular calcium (Ca2+) transients are elicited by electrical and receptor stimulations, leading to muscle contraction and gene expression, respectively. Although such elevations of Ca2+levels ([Ca2+]) also occur in the nucleus, the precise mechanism of nuclear [Ca2+] regulation during different kinds of stimuli, and its relationship with cytoplasmic [Ca2+] regulation are not fully understood. To address these issues, we used a new region-specific fluorescent protein-based Ca2+ indicator, GECO, together with the conventional probe Fluo-4 AM. We confirmed that nuclear Ca2+ transients were elicited by both electrical and receptor stimulations in neonatal mouse ventricular myocytes. Kinetic analysis revealed that electrical stimulation-elicited nuclear Ca2+ transients are slower than cytoplasmic Ca2+ transients, and chelating cytoplasmic Ca2+ abolished nuclear Ca2+ transients, suggesting that nuclear Ca2+ are mainly derived from the cytoplasm during electrical stimulation. On the other hand, receptor stimulation such as with insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) preferentially increased nuclear [Ca2+] compared to cytoplasmic [Ca2+]. Experiments using inhibitors revealed that electrical and receptor stimulation-elicited Ca2+ transients were mainly mediated by ryanodine receptors and inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptors (IP3Rs), respectively, suggesting different mechanisms for the two signals. Furthermore, IGF-1-elicited nuclear Ca2+ transient amplitude was significantly lower in myocytes lacking neuronal Ca2+ sensor-1 (NCS-1), a Ca2+ binding protein implicated in IP3R-mediated pathway in the heart. Moreover, IGF-1 strengthened the interaction between NCS-1 and IP3R. These results suggest a novel mechanism for receptor stimulation-induced nuclear [Ca2+] regulation mediated by IP3R and NCS-1 that may further fine-tune cardiac Ca2+ signal regulation.

  6. Effectiveness of using thyrocalcitonin for the prevention of a calcium metabolic disorder in the mineralized tissues of rabbits with 30 days hypokinesia

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Volozhin, A. I.; Shashkov, V. S.; Dmitriyev, B. S.; Yegorov, B. B.; Lobachik, V. I.; Brishin, A. I.

    1980-01-01

    A 30 day hypokinesia in rabbits led to a considerable lag in weight gain for the skeletal bones, reduction in Ca45 uptake, and an increase in isotope resorption rate in the rapidly metabolized fraction of extremity bones. On the other hand, Ca45 content in the teeth and maxillae increased, which may be explained by redistribution of isotope among the various mineralized tissues. Injection of thyrocalcitonin (50 IU/day) produced a distinct normalizing effect on Ca45 uptake and resorption in the mineralized tissues of rabbits kept hypokinetic.

  7. An overview of techniques for the measurement of calcium distribution, calcium fluxes, and cytosolic free calcium in mammalian cells.

    PubMed Central

    Borle, A B

    1990-01-01

    An array of techniques can be used to study cell calcium metabolism that comprises several calcium compartments and many types of transport systems such as ion channels, ATP-dependent pumps, and antiporters. The measurement of total cell calcium brings little information of value since 60 to 80% of total cell calcium is actually bound to the extracellular glycocalyx. Cell fractionation and differential centrifugation have been used to study intracellular Ca2+ compartmentalization, but the methods suffer from the possibility of Ca2+ loss or redistribution among cell fractions. Steady-state kinetic analyses of 45Ca uptake or desaturation curves have been used to study the distribution of Ca2+ among various kinetic pools in living cells and their rate of Ca2+ exchange, but the analyses are constrained by many limitations. Nonsteady-state tracer studies can provide information about rapid changes in calcium influx or efflux in and out of the cell. Zero-time kinetics of 45Ca uptake can detect instantaneous changes in calcium influx, while 45Ca fractional efflux ratio, can detect rapid stimulations or inhibitions of calcium efflux out of cells. Permeabilized cells have been successfully used to gauge the relative role of intracellular organelles in controlling [Ca2+]i. The measurement of the cytosolic ionized calcium ([Ca2+]i) is undoubtedly the most important and, physiologically, the most relevant method available. The choice of the appropriate calcium indicator, fluorescent, bioluminescent, metallochromic, or Ca2(+)-sensitive microelectrodes depends on the cell type and the magnitude and time constant of the event under study. Each probe has specific assets and drawbacks. The study of plasma membrane vesicles derived from baso-lateral or apical plasmalemma can also bring important information on the (Ca2(+)-Mg2+) ATPase-dependent calcium pump and on the kinetics and stoichiometry of the Na(+)-Ca2+ antiporter. The best strategy to study cell calcium metabolism is to

  8. Iron and gallium increase iron uptake from transferrin by human melanoma cells: further examination of the ferric ammonium citrate-activated iron uptake process.

    PubMed

    Richardson, D R

    2001-04-30

    Previously we showed that preincubation of cells with ferric ammonium citrate (FAC) resulted in a marked increase in Fe uptake from both (59)Fe-transferrin (Tf) and (59)Fe-citrate (D.R. Richardson, E. Baker, J. Biol. Chem. 267 (1992) 13972-13979; D.R. Richardson, P. Ponka, Biochim. Biophys. Acta 1269 (1995) 105-114). This Fe uptake process was independent of the transferrin receptor and appeared to be activated by free radicals generated via the iron-catalysed Haber-Weiss reaction. To further understand this process, the present investigation was performed. In these experiments, cells were preincubated for 3 h at 37 degrees C with FAC or metal ion solutions and then labelled for 3 h at 37 degrees C with (59)Fe-Tf. Exposure of cells to FAC resulted in Fe uptake from (59)Fe-citrate that became saturated at an Fe concentration of 2.5 microM, while FAC-activated Fe uptake from Tf was not saturable up to 25 microM. In addition, the extent of FAC-activated Fe uptake from citrate was far greater than that from Tf. These results suggest a mechanism where FAC-activated Fe uptake from citrate may result from direct interaction with the transporter, while Fe uptake from Tf appears indirect and less efficient. Preincubation of cells with FAC at 4 degrees C instead of 37 degrees C prevented its effect at stimulating (59)Fe uptake from (59)Fe-Tf, suggesting that an active process was involved. Previous studies by others have shown that FAC can increase ferrireductase activity that may enhance (59)Fe uptake from (59)Fe-Tf. However, there was no difference in the ability of FAC-treated cells compared to controls to reduce ferricyanide to ferrocyanide, suggesting no change in oxidoreductase activity. To examine if activation of this Fe uptake mechanism could occur by incubation with a range of metal ions, cells were preincubated with either FAC, ferric chloride, ferrous sulphate, ferrous ammonium sulphate, gallium nitrate, copper chloride, zinc chloride, or cobalt chloride

  9. Separation of Cs and Sr from LiCl-KCl eutectic salt via a zone-refining process for pyroprocessing waste salt minimization

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Shim, Moonsoo; Choi, Ho-Gil; Choi, Jeong-Hun; Yi, Kyung-Woo; Lee, Jong-Hyeon

    2017-08-01

    The purification of a LiCl-KCl salt mixture was carried out by a zone-refining process. To improve the throughput of zone refining, three heaters were installed in the zone refiner. The zone-refining method was used to grow pure LiCl-KCl salt ingots from a LiCl-KCl-CsCl-SrCl2 salt mixture. The main investigated parameters were the heater speed and the number of passes. From each zone-refined salt ingot, samples were collected axially along the salt ingot and the concentrations of Sr and Cs were determined. Experimental results show that the Sr and Cs concentrations at the initial region of the ingot were low and increased to a maximum at the final freezing region of the salt ingot. Concentration results of the zone-refined salt were compared with theoretical results furnished by the proposed model to validate its predictions. The keff values for Sr and Cs were 0.55 and 0.47, respectively. The correlation between the salt composition and separation behavior was also investigated. The keff values of the Sr in LiCl-KCl-SrCl2 and the Cs in LiCl-KCl-CsCl were found to be 0.53 and 0.44, respectively, by fitting the experimental data into the proposed model.

  10. MicroRNA-155 silencing enhances inflammatory response and lipid uptake in oxidized low-density lipoprotein-stimulated human THP-1 macrophages.

    PubMed

    Huang, Ri-sheng; Hu, Guan-qiong; Lin, Bin; Lin, Zhi-yi; Sun, Cheng-chao

    2010-12-01

    It has been proposed that the inflammatory response of monocytes/macrophages induced by oxidized low-density lipoprotein (oxLDL) is a key event in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. MicroRNA-155 (miR-155) is an important regulator of the immune system and has been shown to be involved in acute inflammatory response. However, the function of miR-155 in oxLDL-stimulated inflammation and atherosclerosis remains unclear. Here, we show that the exposure of human THP-1 macrophages to oxLDL led to a marked up-regulation of miR-155 in a dose-dependent manner. Silencing of endogenous miR-155 in THP-1 cells using locked nucleic acid-modified antisense oligonucleotides significantly enhanced oxLDL-induced lipid uptake, up-regulated the expression of scavenger receptors (lectinlike oxidized LDL receptor-1, cluster of differentiation 36 [CD36], and CD68), and promoted the release of several cytokines including interleukin (IL)-6, -8, and tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α). Luciferase reporter assay showed that targeting miR-155 promoted nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) nuclear translocation and potentiated the NF-κB-driven transcription activity. Moreover, miR-155 knockdown resulted in a marked increase in the protein amount of myeloid differentiation primary response gene 88 (MyD88), an important adapter protein used by Toll-like receptors to activate the NF-κB pathway. Our data demonstrate that miR-155 serves as a negative feedback regulator in oxLDL-stimulated THP-1 inflammatory responses and lipid uptake and thus might have potential therapeutic implications in atherosclerosis.

  11. Influence of the on-line ELF-EMF stimulation on the electrophysiological properties of the rat hippocampal CA1 neurons in vitro

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zheng, Yu; Ma, Wei; Dong, Lei; Dou, Jun-rong; Gao, Yang; Xue, Jing

    2017-10-01

    The extremely low frequency electromagnetic fields (ELF-EMFs) have been shown to have an environmentally negative effect on humans' health; however, its treatment effect is beneficial for patients suffering from neurological disorders. Despite this success, the application of ELF-EMF has exceeded in the understanding of its internal mechanism. Recently, it was found that on-line magnetic stimulation may offer advantages over off-line magnetic exposure and has proven to be effective in activating the prefrontal cortex pyramidal neurons in vitro. Here, we perform computational simulations of the stimulation coils in COMSOL modeling to describe the uniformity of the distribution of the on-line magnetic field. Interestingly, the modeling data and actual measurements showed that the densities of the magnetic flux that was generated by the on-line stimulation coils were similar. The on-line magnetic stimulator induced sodium channel currents as well as field excitatory postsynaptic potentials of the rat hippocampal CA1 neurons and successfully demonstrated its extensive applications to activate neuronal tissue. These findings further raise the possibility that the instrument of on-line magnetic stimulation may be an effective alternative for studies in the field of bioelectromagnetics.

  12. A neuronal lactate uptake inhibitor slows recovery of extracellular ion concentration changes in the hippocampal CA3 region by affecting energy metabolism.

    PubMed

    Angamo, Eskedar Ayele; Rösner, Joerg; Liotta, Agustin; Kovács, Richard; Heinemann, Uwe

    2016-11-01

    Astrocyte-derived lactate supports pathologically enhanced neuronal metabolism, but its role under physiological conditions is still a matter of debate. Here, we determined the contribution of astrocytic neuronal lactate shuttle for maintenance of ion homeostasis and energy metabolism. We tested for the effects of α-cyano-4-hydroxycinnamic acid (4-CIN), which could interfere with energy metabolism by blocking monocarboxylate-transporter 2 (MCT2)-mediated neuronal lactate uptake, on evoked potentials, stimulus-induced changes in K + , Na + , Ca 2+ , and oxygen concentrations as well as on changes in flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD) autofluorescence in the hippocampal area CA3. MCT2 blockade by 4-CIN reduced synaptically evoked but not antidromic population spikes. This effect was dependent on the activation of K ATP channels indicating reduced neuronal ATP synthesis. By contrast, lactate receptor activation by 3,5-dihydroxybenzoic acid (3,5-DHBA) resulted in increased antidromic and orthodromic population spikes suggesting that 4-CIN effects are not mediated by lactate accumulation and subsequent activation of lactate receptors. Recovery kinetics of all ion transients were prolonged and baseline K + concentration became elevated by blockade of lactate uptake. Lactate contributed to oxidative metabolism as both baseline respiration and stimulus-induced changes in Po 2 were decreased, while FAD fluorescence increased likely due to a reduced conversion of FAD into FADH 2 These data suggest that lactate shuttle contributes to regulation of ion homeostatsis and synaptic signaling even in the presence of ample glucose. Copyright © 2016 the American Physiological Society.

  13. In Vitro Human Umbilical Vein Endothelial Cells Response to Ionic Dissolution Products from Lithium-Containing 45S5 Bioactive Glass

    PubMed Central

    Haro Durand, Luis A.; Vargas, Gabriela E.; Vera-Mesones, Rosa; Baldi, Alberto; Zago, María P.; Fanovich, María A.; Boccaccini, Aldo R.; Gorustovich, Alejandro

    2017-01-01

    Since lithium (Li+) plays roles in angiogenesis, the localized and controlled release of Li+ ions from bioactive glasses (BGs) represents a promising alternative therapy for the regeneration and repair of tissues with a high degree of vascularization. Here, microparticles from a base 45S5 BG composition containing (wt %) 45% SiO2, 24.5% Na2O, 24.5% CaO, and 6% P2O5, in which Na2O was partially substituted by 5% Li2O (45S5.5Li), were obtained. The results demonstrate that human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) have greater migratory and proliferative response and ability to form tubules in vitro after stimulation with the ionic dissolution products (IDPs) of the 45S5.5Li BG. The results also show the activation of the canonical Wnt/β-catenin pathway and the increase in expression of proangiogenic cytokines insulin like growth factor 1 (IGF1) and transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ). We conclude that the IDPs of 45S5.5Li BG would act as useful inorganic agents to improve tissue repair and regeneration, ultimately stimulating HUVECs behavior in the absence of exogenous growth factors. PMID:28773103

  14. DETERMINATION OF THE RADIOSENSITIVITY OF DIFFERENT BONE GROWTH REGIONS USING Ca$sup 45$ METABOLISM (in German)

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Kolar, J.; Babicky, A.

    1961-02-01

    The radiation sensitivity of some bone segments and especially of the growth zones of white rats was examined with the help of Ca/sup 45/. The deviations in the specific activities corresponded not only to the delivered dosage but also to the growth activity of some of the bone segments. After large radiation doses and in more activity growth zones the radiation damage was also greater. These results should give reason in the clinical practice for greater caution in radiation treatment in the area of strongly growing epiphyseal zones (in the area of knee and wrist joints). (auth)

  15. An optimal method for phosphorylation of rare earth chlorides in LiCl-KCl eutectic based waste salt

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Eun, H. C.; Kim, J. H.; Cho, Y. Z.; Choi, J. H.; Lee, T. K.; Park, H. S.; Park, G. I.

    2013-11-01

    A study on an optimal method for the phosphorylation of rare earth chlorides in LiCl-KCl eutectic waste salt generated the pyrochemical process of spent nuclear fuel was performed. A reactor with a pitched four blade impeller was designed to create a homogeneous mixing zone in LiCl-KCl eutectic salt. A phosphorylation test of NdCl3 in the salt was carried out by changing the operation conditions (operation temperature, stirring rate, agent injection amount). Based on the results of the test, a proper operation condition (450 °C, 300 rpm, 1 eq. of phosphorylation agent) for over a 0.99 conversion ratio of NdCl3 to NdPO4 was determined. Under this condition, multi-component rare earth (La, Ce, Pr, Nd, Sm, Eu, Gd, Y) chlorides were effectively converted into phosphate forms. It was confirmed that the existing regeneration process of LiCl-KCl eutectic waste salt can be greatly improved and simplified through these phosphorylation test results.

  16. Application of the rotating cylinder electrode in molten LiCl-KCl eutectic containing uranium(III)- and magnesium(II)-chloride

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Rappleye, Devin; Simpson, Michael F.

    2017-04-01

    The application of the rotating cylinder electrode (RCE) to molten LiCl-KCl eutectic mixtures for electroanalytical measurements is presented. This enabled the measurement of the limiting current which was observed to follow a linear trend with the rotational rate raised to 0.64-0.65 power on average, which closely agrees with existing RCE mass-transfer correlations. This is the first publication of electroanalytical RCE measurements in LiCl-KCl eutectic based molten salt mixtures, to our knowledge. These measurements were made in mixtures of molten LiCl-KCl eutectic containing UCl3 and MgCl2. Kinetic parameters were calculated for Mg2+ in LiCl-KCl eutectic. The exchange current density (io) of Mg2+ deposition varied with mole fraction (x) according to io(A cm-2) = 1.64x0.689. The parameters from RCE measurements were also applied in an electrochemical co-deposition model entitled DREP to detect and predict the deposition rate of U and Mg. DREP succeeded in detecting the co-deposition of U and Mg, even when Mg constituted less than 0.5 wt% of the deposit.

  17. Arabidopsis WRKY45 transcription factor activates PHOSPHATE TRANSPORTER1;1 expression in response to phosphate starvation.

    PubMed

    Wang, Hui; Xu, Qian; Kong, You-Han; Chen, Yun; Duan, Jun-Ye; Wu, Wei-Hua; Chen, Yi-Fang

    2014-04-01

    The WRKY transcription factor family has more than 70 members in the Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) genome, and some of them are involved in plant responses to biotic and abiotic stresses. This study evaluated the role of WRKY45 in regulating phosphate (Pi) uptake in Arabidopsis. WRKY45 was localized in the nucleus and mainly expressed in roots. During Pi starvation, WRKY45 expression was markedly induced, typically in roots. WRKY45 overexpression in Arabidopsis increased Pi content and uptake, while RNA interference suppression of WRKY45 decreased Pi content and uptake. Furthermore, the WRKY45-overexpressing lines were more sensitive to arsenate, the analog of Pi, compared with wild-type seedlings. These results indicate that WRKY45 positively regulates Arabidopsis Pi uptake. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and β-glucuronidase staining assays showed that PHOSPHATE TRANSPORTER1;1 (PHT1;1) expression was enhanced in the WRKY45-overexpressing lines and slightly repressed in the WRKY45 RNA interference line. Chromatin immunoprecipitation and electrophoretic mobility shift assay results indicated that WRKY45 can bind to two W-boxes within the PHT1;1 promoter, confirming the role of WRKY45 in directly up-regulating PHT1;1 expression. The pht1;1 mutant showed decreased Pi content and uptake, and overexpression of PHT1;1 resulted in enhanced Pi content and uptake. Furthermore, the PHT1;1-overexpressing line was much more sensitive to arsenate than WRKY45-overexpressing and wild-type seedlings, indicating that PHT1;1 overexpression can enhance Arabidopsis Pi uptake. Moreover, the enhanced Pi uptake and the increased arsenate sensitivity of the WRKY45-overexpressing line was impaired by pht1;1 (35S:WRKY45-18::pht1;1), demonstrating an epistatic genetic regulation between WRKY45 and PHT1;1. Together, our results demonstrate that WRKY45 is involved in Arabidopsis response to Pi starvation by direct up-regulation of PHT1;1 expression.

  18. Origins of intracellular calcium mobilization evoked by infrared laser stimulation

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Olsovsky, Cory A.; Tolstykh, Gleb P.; Ibey, Bennett L.; Beier, Hope T.

    2015-03-01

    Cellular delivery of pulsed IR laser energy has been shown to stimulate action potentials in neurons. The mechanism for this stimulation is not completely understood. Certain hypotheses suggest the rise in temperature from IR exposure could activate temperature- or pressure-sensitive channels, or create pores in the cellular outer membrane. Studies using intensity-based Ca2+-responsive dyes show changes in Ca2+ levels after various IR stimulation parameters; however, determination of the origin of this signal proved difficult. An influx of larger, typically plasma-membrane-impermeant ions has been demonstrated, which suggests that Ca2+ may originate from the external solution. However, activation of intracellular signaling pathways, possibly indicating a more complex role of increasing Ca2+ concentration, has also been shown. By usingCa2+ sensitive dye Fura-2 and a high-speed ratiometric imaging system that rapidly alternates the excitation wavelengths, we have quantified the Ca2+ mobilization in terms of influx from the external solution and efflux from intracellular organelles. CHO-K1 cells, which lack voltage-gated Ca2+ channels, and NG-108 neuroblastoma cells, which do not produce action potentials in an early undifferentiated state, are used to determine the origin of the Ca2+ signals and investigate the role these mechanisms may play in IR neural stimulation.

  19. Stimulation of erythrocyte death by phloretin.

    PubMed

    Bissinger, Rosi; Fischer, Salome; Jilani, Kashif; Lang, Florian

    2014-01-01

    Phloretin, a natural component of apples, pears and strawberries, has previously been shown to stimulate apoptosis of nucleated cells. Erythrocytes may similarly enter suicidal death or eryptosis, which is characterized by cell shrinkage and phospholipid scrambling of the erythrocyte cell membrane with phosphatidylserine translocation to the erythrocyte surface. Stimulators of eryptosis include increase of cytosolic Ca(2+)-activity ([Ca(2+)]i), ceramide, ATP depletion, and activation of protein kinase C (PKC) as well as p38 mitogen activated protein kinase (p38 kinase). Phosphatidylserine exposure at the cell surface was estimated from annexin V binding, cell volume from forward scatter, [Ca(2+)]i from Fluo3-fluorescence, and ceramide abundance from binding of specific antibodies. A 48 h exposure of human erythrocytes to phloretin significantly increased the percentage of annexin-V-binding cells (≥100 µM) without significantly influencing forward scatter. Phloretin did not significantly modify [Ca(2+)]i and the stimulation of annexin-V-binding by phloretin (300 µM) did not require presence of extracellular Ca(2+). Phloretin did not significantly modify erythrocyte ATP levels, and the effect of phloretin on annexin-V-binding was not significantly altered by PKC inhibitor staurosporine (1 µM) or p38 kinase inhibitor SB2203580 (2 µM). However, phloretin significantly increased the ceramide abundance at the cell surface. Phloretin stimulates phospholipid scrambling of the erythrocyte cell membrane, an effect at least partially due to up-regulation of ceramide abundance.

  20. Effects of polyamine inhibitors on zinc uptake by COMMA-1D mammary epithelial cells

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Allen, J.C.; Haedrich, L.H.

    1991-03-15

    Zn uptake or transport is stimulated by glucocorticoids in many types of epithelial cells, including the COMMA-1D mouse mammary cell line. The current objective was to determine whether polyamines also mediate glucocorticoid stimulation of Zn-uptake. Initially, cells grown in lactogenic hormone supplemented-media had approximately 65% greater {sup 65}Zn-uptake over 24 h than cells in nonsupplemented growth media (GM). {sup 65}Zn-uptake from HM with 10{sup {minus}5}M methylglyoxal-bis(guanylhydrazone) (MGBG) (s-adenosyl-methionine decarboxylase inhibitor to block polyamine synthesis) added was less than from GM. Exogenous spermidine added to the MGBG-HM media increased {sup 65}Zn-uptake. However, up to 10mM difluoromethylornithine (DFMO), a more specific inhibitormore » of sperimidine synthesis, had no significant effect on 24-h {sup 65}Zn-uptake by cells in HM. In GM, DFMO caused a slight dose-dependent decrease in {sup 65}Zn-uptake over the range 10{sup {minus}6} to 5 {times} 10{sup 3}M. Also, with 8 h of incubation, DFMO tended to decrease {sup 65}Zn-uptake in HM-stimulated cells. These data cannot yet distinguish between the possibilities that DFMO is inactivated during the 24-h incubation or that the dramatic effects of MGBG on {sup 65}Zn-uptake in these mammary-derived cells is not related to its inhibition of polyamine synthesis. Because COMMA-1D cells alter Zn uptake in response to lactogenic hormones and MGBG, the model system is suitable for further studies of the mechanisms of zinc transport in epithelia.« less

  1. CGP-37157 inhibits the sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca²+ ATPase and activates ryanodine receptor channels in striated muscle.

    PubMed

    Neumann, Jake T; Diaz-Sylvester, Paula L; Fleischer, Sidney; Copello, Julio A

    2011-01-01

    7-Chloro-5-(2-chlorophenyl)-1,5-dihydro-4,1-benzothiazepin-2(3H)-one [CGP-37157 (CGP)], a benzothiazepine derivative of clonazepam, is commonly used as a blocker of the mitochondrial Na+/Ca²+ exchanger. However, evidence suggests that CGP could also affect other targets, such as L-type Ca²+ channels and plasmalemma Na+/Ca²+ exchanger. Here, we tested the possibility of a direct modulation of ryanodine receptor channels (RyRs) and/or sarco/endoplasmic reticulum Ca²+-stimulated ATPase (SERCA) by CGP. In the presence of ruthenium red (inhibitor of RyRs), CGP decreased SERCA-mediated Ca²+ uptake of cardiac and skeletal sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) microsomes (IC₅₀ values of 6.6 and 9.9 μM, respectively). The CGP effects on SERCA activity correlated with a decreased V(max) of ATPase activity of SERCA-enriched skeletal SR fractions. CGP (≥ 5 μM) also increased RyR-mediated Ca²+ leak from skeletal SR microsomes. Planar bilayer studies confirmed that both cardiac and skeletal RyRs are directly activated by CGP (EC(50) values of 9.4 and 12.0 μM, respectively). In summary, we found that CGP inhibits SERCA and activates RyR channels. Hence, the action of CGP on cellular Ca²+ homeostasis reported in the literature of cardiac, skeletal muscle, and other nonmuscle systems requires further analysis to take into account the contribution of all CGP-sensitive Ca²+ transporters.

  2. CGP-37157 Inhibits the Sarcoplasmic Reticulum Ca2+ ATPase and Activates Ryanodine Receptor Channels in Striated Muscle

    PubMed Central

    Neumann, Jake T.; Diaz-Sylvester, Paula L.; Fleischer, Sidney

    2011-01-01

    7-Chloro-5-(2-chlorophenyl)-1,5-dihydro-4,1-benzothiazepin-2(3H)-one [CGP-37157 (CGP)], a benzothiazepine derivative of clonazepam, is commonly used as a blocker of the mitochondrial Na+/Ca2+ exchanger. However, evidence suggests that CGP could also affect other targets, such as L-type Ca2+ channels and plasmalemma Na+/Ca2+ exchanger. Here, we tested the possibility of a direct modulation of ryanodine receptor channels (RyRs) and/or sarco/endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+-stimulated ATPase (SERCA) by CGP. In the presence of ruthenium red (inhibitor of RyRs), CGP decreased SERCA-mediated Ca2+ uptake of cardiac and skeletal sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) microsomes (IC50 values of 6.6 and 9.9 μM, respectively). The CGP effects on SERCA activity correlated with a decreased Vmax of ATPase activity of SERCA-enriched skeletal SR fractions. CGP (≥5 μM) also increased RyR-mediated Ca2+ leak from skeletal SR microsomes. Planar bilayer studies confirmed that both cardiac and skeletal RyRs are directly activated by CGP (EC50 values of 9.4 and 12.0 μM, respectively). In summary, we found that CGP inhibits SERCA and activates RyR channels. Hence, the action of CGP on cellular Ca2+ homeostasis reported in the literature of cardiac, skeletal muscle, and other nonmuscle systems requires further analysis to take into account the contribution of all CGP-sensitive Ca2+ transporters. PMID:20923851

  3. Stimulation of root elongation and curvature by calcium

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Takahashi, H.; Scott, T. K.; Suge, H.

    1992-01-01

    Ca2+ has been proposed to mediate inhibition of root elongation. However, exogenous Ca2+ at 10 or 20 millimolar, applied directly to the root cap, significantly stimulated root elongation in pea (Pisum sativum L.) and corn (Zea mays L.) seedlings. Furthermore, Ca2+ at 1 to 20 millimolar, applied unilaterally to the caps of Alaska pea roots, caused root curvature away from the Ca2+ source, which was caused by an acceleration of elongation growth on the convex side (Ca2+ side) of the roots. Roots of an agravitropic pea mutant, ageotropum, responded to a greater extent. Roots of Merit and Silver Queen corn also responded to Ca2+ in similar ways but required a higher Ca2+ concentration than that of pea roots. Roots of all other cultivars tested (additional four cultivars of pea and one of corn) curved away from the unilateral Ca2+ source as well. The Ca(2+)-stimulated curvature was substantially enhanced by light. A Ca2+ ionophore, A23187, at 20 micromolar or abscisic acid at 0.1 to 100 micromolar partially substituted for the light effect and enhanced the Ca(2+)-stimulated curvature in the dark. Unilateral application of Ca2+ to the elongation zone of intact roots or to the cut end of detipped roots caused either no curvature or very slight curvature toward the Ca2+. Thus, Ca2+ action on root elongation differs depending on its site of application. The stimulatory action of Ca2+ may involve an elevation of cytoplasmic Ca2+ in root cap cells and may partipate in root tropisms.

  4. Loss of β-adrenergic-stimulated phosphorylation of CaV1.2 channels on Ser1700 leads to heart failure.

    PubMed

    Yang, Linghai; Dai, Dao-Fu; Yuan, Can; Westenbroek, Ruth E; Yu, Haijie; West, Nastassya; de la Iglesia, Horacio O; Catterall, William A

    2016-12-06

    L-type Ca 2+ currents conducted by voltage-gated calcium channel 1.2 (Ca V 1.2) initiate excitation-contraction coupling in the heart, and altered expression of Ca V 1.2 causes heart failure in mice. Here we show unexpectedly that reducing β-adrenergic regulation of Ca V 1.2 channels by mutation of a single PKA site, Ser1700, in the proximal C-terminal domain causes reduced contractile function, cardiac hypertrophy, and heart failure without changes in expression, localization, or function of the Ca V 1.2 protein in the mutant mice (SA mice). These deficits were aggravated with aging. Dual mutation of Ser1700 and a nearby casein-kinase II site (Thr1704) caused accelerated hypertrophy, heart failure, and death in mice with these mutations (STAA mice). Cardiac hypertrophy was increased by voluntary exercise and by persistent β-adrenergic stimulation. PKA expression was increased, and PKA sites Ser2808 in ryanodine receptor type-2, Ser16 in phospholamban, and Ser23/24 in troponin-I were hyperphosphorylated in SA mice, whereas phosphorylation of substrates for calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II was unchanged. The Ca 2+ pool in the sarcoplasmic reticulum was increased, the activity of calcineurin was elevated, and calcineurin inhibitors improved contractility and ameliorated cardiac hypertrophy. Cardio-specific expression of the SA mutation also caused reduced contractility and hypertrophy. These results suggest engagement of compensatory mechanisms, which initially may enhance the contractility of individual myocytes but eventually contribute to an increased sensitivity to cardiovascular stress and to heart failure in vivo. Our results demonstrate that normal regulation of Ca V 1.2 channels by phosphorylation of Ser1700 in cardiomyocytes is required for cardiovascular homeostasis and normal physiological regulation in vivo.

  5. Manganese uptake of imprinted polymers

    DOE Data Explorer

    Susanna Ventura

    2015-09-30

    Batch tests of manganese imprinted polymers of variable composition to assess their ability to extract lithium and manganese from synthetic brines at T=45C . Data on manganese uptake for two consecutive cycles are included.

  6. The thermostimulated luminescence of radiation defects in KCl, KBr and KI crystals at elastic and plastic deformation

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Shunkeyev, K.; Myasnikova, L.; Barmina, A.; Zhanturina, N.; Sagimbaeva, Sh; Aimaganbetova, Z.; Sergeyev, D.

    2017-05-01

    The efficiency of radiation defects formation in alkali halide crystals (AHC) was studied by the method of absorption spectroscopy. However, it is not possible to study the deformation-stimulated processes in detail by the absorption spectrum of radiation defects due to the limited sensitivity compared with luminescent spectroscopy. In this regard, thermally stimulated luminescence (TSL) of radiation defects at elastic and plastic deformation was applied in AHC. In the absence of deformation, the dominant peaks in TSL are ≤ft( {X_3^ - } \\right)aca^0-centers. After elastic deformation, low temperature peaks of TSL corresponding to F‧-, VK- and VF-centers became dominant. After plastic deformation, the peaks of TSL corresponding to ≤ft( {X_3^ - } \\right)aca^0-centers became dominant. The elastic deformation contributes to the increase in concentration of low-temperature F‧-, VK- and VF-centers, and the plastic one contributes to that of high temperature ≤ft( {X_3^ - } \\right)aca^0-centers (peaks of TSL in KCl at 360K, in KBr at 365K, in KI at 340K), composed by divacancies created by plastic deformation. At elastic deformation, unrelaxed interstitial halogen atoms are converted into VK- and VF-centers, and due to this fact the long-range interaction is absent, the result of which are the X_3^ - -centers.

  7. Polyphenol-rich beverages enhance zinc uptake and metallothionein expression in Caco-2 cells.

    PubMed

    Sreenivasulu, Kilari; Raghu, Pullakhandam; Nair, K Madhavan

    2010-05-01

    The effect of red wine (RW), red grape juice (RGJ), green tea (GT), and representative polyphenols on Caco-2 cell (65)Zn uptake was explored. RW, RGJ, and GT enhanced the uptake of zinc from rice matrix. Fractionation of RW revealed that enhancing activity of zinc uptake was exclusively resided in the polyphenol fraction. Among the polyphenols tested, only tannic acid and quercitin stimulated the uptake of zinc while others did not influence the uptake. In tune with these results, only tannic acid and quercitin competed with zinquin (a zinc selective fluorophore) for zinc in vitro. Although all the polyphenols tested appear to enhance the expression of metallothionein (MT), the induction was higher with tannic acid, quercitin, and RW extract. Furthermore, phytic acid abrogated the tannic acid-induced MT expression. These results suggest that polyphenol-rich beverages, tannic acid, and quercitin bind and stimulate the zinc uptake and MT expression in Caco-2 cells.

  8. Development of accelerated net nitrate uptake. [Zea mays L

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    MacKown, C.T.; McClure, P.R.

    1988-05-01

    Upon initial nitrate exposure, net nitrate uptake rates in roots of a wide variety of plants accelerate within 6 to 8 hours to substantially greater rates. Effects of solution nitrate concentrations and short pulses of nitrate ({le}1 hour) upon nitrate-induced acceleration of nitrate uptake in maize (Zea mays L.) were determined. Root cultures of dark-grown seedlings, grown without nitrate, were exposed to 250 micromolar nitrate for 0.25 to 1 hour or to various solution nitrate concentration (10-250 micromolar) for 1 hour before returning them to a nitrate-free solution. Net nitrate uptake rates were assayed at various periods following nitrate exposuremore » and compared to rates of roots grown either in the absence of nitrate (CaSO{sub 4}-grown) or with continuous nitrate for at least 20 hours. Three hours after initial nitrate exposure, nitrate pulse treatments increased nitrate uptake rates three- to four-fold compared to the rates of CaSO{sub 4}-grown roots. When cycloheximide (5 micrograms per milliliter) was included during a 1-hour pulse with 250 micromolar nitrate, development of the accelerated nitrate uptake state was delayed. Otherwise, nitrate uptake rates reached maximum values within 6 hours before declining. Maximum rates, however, were significantly less than those of roots exposed continuously for 20, 32, or 44 hours. Pulsing for only 0.25 hour with 250 micromolar nitrate and for 1 hour with 10 micromolar caused acceleration of nitrate uptake, but the rates attained were either less than or not sustained for a duration comparable to those of roots pulsed for 1 hour with 250 micromolar nitrate. These results indicate that substantial development of nitrate-induced accelerated nitrate uptake state can be achieved by small endogenous accumulations of nitrate, which appear to moderate the activity or level of root nitrate uptake.« less

  9. DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Nauntofte, B.; Poulsen, J.H.

    Stimulation-induced changes in Cl content and O2 consumption of collagenase-isolated rat parotid acini were measured. In <10 s, carbachol caused a net Cl efflux, corresponding to approx.50% of the Cl content, and increased the O2 uptake by 100%. The increase was inhibitable by ouabain and was dependent on the presence of extracellular CaS . Furosemide reduced the unstimulated TWCl uptake and prevented the reuptake of Cl after carbachol-induced release. This suggests that a cotransport system is operating in both the unstimulated and stimulated states. Furthermore, furosemide inhibited the stimulated ouabain-sensitive OS uptake. Raising intracellular CaS by the calcium ionophore A23187more » evoked the same pattern of Cl loss and O2 uptake as carboachol. Our results ae compatible with the following hypothesis. Carbachol raises intracellular CaS , causing an increased Cl permeability of the luminal membrane, resulting in a net Cl efflux. A subsequently enhanced influx of Cl and Na via a furosemide-sensitive cotransport system increases intracellular Na . This stimulates the Na -K -ATPase and thereby the OS consumption.« less

  10. Controlled On-chip Stimulation of Quantal Catecholamine Release from Chromaffin Cells Using Photolysis of Caged Ca2+ on Transparent Indium-Tin-Oxide Microchip Electrodes

    PubMed Central

    Chen, Xiaohui; Gao, Yuanfang; Hossain, Maruf; Gangopadhyay, Shubhra; Gillis, Kevin D.

    2008-01-01

    Photorelease of caged Ca2+ is a uniquely powerful tool to study the dynamics of Ca2+-triggered exocytosis from individual cells. Using photolithography and other microfabrication techniques, we have developed transparent microchip devices to enable photorelease of caged Ca2+ together with electrochemical detection of quantal catecholamine secretion from individual cells or cell arrays as a step towards developing high-throughput experimental devices. A 100 nm - thick transparent Indium-Tin-Oxide (ITO) film was sputter-deposited onto glass coverslips, which were then patterned into 24 cell-sized working electrodes (∼20 μm by 20 μm). We loaded bovine chromaffin cells with acetoxymethyl (AM) ester derivatives of the Ca2+ cage NP-EGTA and Ca2+ indicator dye Fura-4F, then transferred these cells onto the working ITO electrodes for amperometric recordings. Upon flash photorelease of caged Ca2+, a uniform rise of [Ca2+]i within the target cell leads to quantal release of oxidizable catecholamines measured amperometrically by the underlying ITO electrode. We observed a burst of amperometric spikes upon rapid elevation of [Ca2+]i and a “priming” effect of sub-stimulatory [Ca2+]i on the response of cells to subsequent [Ca2+]i elevation, similar to previous reports using different techniques. We conclude that UV photolysis of caged Ca2+ is a suitable stimulation technique for higher-throughput studies of Ca2+-dependent exocytosis on transparent electrochemical microelectrode arrays. PMID:18094774

  11. Amperozide, a putative anti-psychotic drug: Uptake inhibition and release of dopamine in vitro in the rat brain

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Eriksson, E.

    1990-01-01

    The effects of amperozide (a diphenylbutylpiperazinecarboxamide derivative) on the uptake and release of {sup 3}H-dopamine in vitro were investigated. Amperozide inhibited the amphetamine-stimulated release of dopamine from perfused rat striatal tissue in a dose-dependent manner. With 1 and 10 {mu}m amperozide there was significant inhibition of the amphetamine-stimulated release of dopamine, to 44 and 36 % of control. In contrast, 10 {mu}M amperozide significantly strengthened the electrically stimulated release of dopamine from perfused striatal slices. Amperozide 1-10 {mu}M had no significant effect on the potassium-stimulated release of dopamine, 10 {mu}M amperozide also slightly increased the basal release of {sup 3}H-dopaminemore » from perfused striatal tissue. These effects on various types of release are similar to those reported for uptake inhibitors. The uptake of dopamine in striatal tissue was inhibited by amperozide with IC{sub 50} values of 18 {mu}M for uptake in chopped tissue and 1.0 {mu}M for uptake in synaptosomes. Amperozide also inhibited the uptake of serotonin in synaptosomes from frontal cortex, IC{sub 50} = 0.32 {mu}M and the uptake of noradrenaline in cortical synaptosomes, IC{sub 50} = 0.78 {mu}M.« less

  12. Pulmonary artery smooth muscle cell [Ca2+]i and contraction: responses to diphenyleneiodonium and hypoxia.

    PubMed

    Zhang, F; Carson, R C; Zhang, H; Gibson, G; Thomas, H M

    1997-09-01

    To investigate mechanisms of inhibition of hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction (HPV), we studied pulmonary artery smooth muscle cell (PASMC) responses to hypoxia, utilizing diphenyleneiodonium (DPI), which blocks HPV. We measured cell contraction in primary cultures of rat PASMC grown on collagen gels and cytosolic free Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) in PASMC grown on glass. DPI (5 and 20 microM) caused contraction of PASMC and increased [Ca2+]i. Omission of extracellular Ca2+ diminished the DPI-induced PASMC contraction and greatly reduced the increase in [Ca2+]i. DPI substantially inhibited KCl-induced PASMC contraction (1 microM DPI) and the increase in [Ca2+]i (5 microM DPI). Severe hypoxia contracted PASMC and quadrupled [Ca2+]i. DPI, 1 microM, substantially inhibited hypoxic contraction, but neither 1 nor 5 microM DPI diminished the hypoxia-induced increase in [Ca2+]i, which was greatly attenuated by 20 microM DPI. These data show 1) that DPI increases [Ca2+]i, accounting for DPI-induced PASMC contraction and 2) that 1 and 5 microM DPI inhibit the hypoxia-induced contraction but not the hypoxia-induced increase in [Ca2+]i, suggesting that DPI inhibits hypoxic PASMC contraction downstream of the Ca2+ signal by desensitizing the contractile apparatus and indicating a potential control point for modulation of HPV.

  13. Dramatic effects of external alkalinity on neuronal calcium recovery following a short-duration glutamate challenge: the role of the plasma membrane Ca2+/H+ pump.

    PubMed

    Khodorov, B; Pinelis, V; Vergun, O; Storozhevykh, T; Fajuk, D; Vinskaya, N; Arsenjeva, E; Khaspekov, L; Lyzin, A; Isaev, N

    1995-09-11

    Alkalinization of the external medium has been shown to suppress Ca2+ extrusion from neurons due to inhibition of the plasmalemmal Ca2+/H+ pump. In our experiments on fura-2-loaded rat cerebellar granule cells and mouse hippocampal neurons, an increase in pHo from 7.4 to 8.5 following a 1-min glutamate or NMDA challenge caused a dramatic delay in [Ca2+]i recovery which in some cases was accompanied by an additional increase in [Ca2+]i. Normalization of pHo, or removal of Ca2+ from the alkaline solution allowed [Ca2+]i to decrease rapidly again. External alkalinity did not affect the initial rapid decline in [Ca2+]i following a 25 mMK+ pulse. In cerebellar granule cells, the alkaline pHo considerably increased the 45Ca2+ uptake both at rest and following a 2-min GLU pulse. A comparison of these effects of alkaline pHo with those produced by removal of the external Na+ led us to conclude that the Ca2+/H+ pump plays a dominant role in the mechanism of the fast Ca2+ extrusion from glutamate- or NMDA-treated neurons.

  14. TRPV4 channels stimulate Ca2+-induced Ca2+ release in astrocytic endfeet and amplify neurovascular coupling responses.

    PubMed

    Dunn, Kathryn M; Hill-Eubanks, David C; Liedtke, Wolfgang B; Nelson, Mark T

    2013-04-09

    In the CNS, astrocytes are sensory and regulatory hubs that play important roles in cerebral homeostatic processes, including matching local cerebral blood flow to neuronal metabolism (neurovascular coupling). These cells possess a highly branched network of processes that project from the soma to neuronal synapses as well as to arterioles and capillaries, where they terminate in "endfeet" that encase the blood vessels. Ca(2+) signaling within the endfoot mediates neurovascular coupling; thus, these functional microdomains control vascular tone and local perfusion in the brain. Transient receptor potential vanilloid 4 (TRPV4) channels--nonselective cation channels with considerable Ca(2+) conductance--have been identified in astrocytes, but their function is largely unknown. We sought to characterize the influence of TRPV4 channels on Ca(2+) dynamics in the astrocytic endfoot microdomain and assess their role in neurovascular coupling. We identified local TRPV4-mediated Ca(2+) oscillations in endfeet and further found that TRPV4 Ca(2+) signals are amplified and propagated by Ca(2+)-induced Ca(2+) release from inositol trisphosphate receptors (IP3Rs). Moreover, TRPV4-mediated Ca(2+) influx contributes to the endfoot Ca(2+) response to neuronal activation, enhancing the accompanying vasodilation. Our results identify a dynamic synergy between TRPV4 channels and IP3Rs in astrocyte endfeet and demonstrate that TRPV4 channels are engaged in and contribute to neurovascular coupling.

  15. DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Mueller, R.M.M.; Martinez, J.R.

    The uptake and efflux of the isotopic tracer /sup 45/Ca were compared in dispersed submandibular acini of both control rats and rats treated with seven daily doses of reserpine (0.5 mg/kg, i.p.). Tracer uptake occurred in a time-dependent manner in both types of acini and reached 8.4 +/- 0.2 and 8.0 +/- 0.2 pmol/mg protein, respectively, in acini from control and treated animals after 60 min of incubation. Uptake of tracer was 2.35 nmol/mg DNA in control cells and 4 nmol/mg DNA in cells from treated rats at 60 min. /sup 45/Ca uptake (per mg protein) was enhanced in controlmore » acini 48% by 20 mumol/L epinephrine; 38% by 50 mumol/L carbachol; and 23% by 10 mumol/L isoproterenol. A similar order of potency was observed when uptake was expressed per mg DNA. In acini from reserpine-treated rats, /sup 45/Ca uptake (per mg protein) was increased 53% by epinephrine, 39% by isoproterenol, and only 8% by carbachol. The same enhanced effect of isoproterenol and lack of effect of carbachol were observed when uptake was calculated per mg DNA. In the absence of secretagogue, efflux of /sup 45/Ca from tracer-pre-loaded acini was larger in acini from reserpine-treated rats (53%) than in control acini (36%). Whether expressed in terms of mg protein or mg DNA, this efflux was increased in control acini 35% by epinephrine, from 25 to 28% by isoproterenol, and 17% by carbachol. In acini of reserpine-treated rats, epinephrine increased /sup 45/Ca efflux 20%, isoproterenol from 25 to 28%, and carbachol from 14 to 15%.« less

  16. Rotenone-sensitive mitochondrial potential in Phytomonas serpens: electrophoretic Ca(2+) accumulation.

    PubMed

    Moysés, Danuza Nogueira; Barrabin, Hector

    2004-06-07

    Phytomonas sp. are flagellated trypanosomatid plant parasites that cause diseases of economic importance in plantations of coffee, oil palm, cassava and coconuts. Here we investigated Ca(2+) uptake by the vanadate-insensitive compartments using permeabilized Phytomonas serpens promastigotes. This uptake occurs at a rate of 1.13+/-0.23 nmol Ca(2+) mg x protein(-1) min(-1). It is completely abolished by the H(+) ionophore FCCP and by valinomycin and nigericin. It is also inhibited by 2 microM ruthenium red, which, at this low concentration, is known to inhibit the mitochondrial calcium uniport. Furthermore, salicylhydroxamic acid (SHAM) and propylgallate, specific inhibitors of the alternative oxidase in plant and parasite mitochondria, are also effective as inhibitors of the Ca(2+) transport. These compounds abolish the membrane potential that is monitored with safranine O. Rotenone, an inhibitor of NADH-CoQ oxidoreductase, can also dissipate 100% of the membrane potential. It is suggested that the mitochondria of P. serpens can be energized via oxidation of NADH in a pathway involving the NADH-CoQ oxidoreductase and the alternative oxidase to regenerate the ubiquinone. The electrochemical H(+) gradient can be used to promote Ca(2+) uptake by the mitochondria.

  17. Galvanic reduction of uranium(III) chloride from LiCl-KCl eutectic salt using gadolinium metal

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Bagri, Prashant; Zhang, Chao; Simpson, Michael F.

    2017-09-01

    The drawdown of actinides is an important unit operation to enable the recycling of electrorefiner salt and minimization of waste. A new method for the drawdown of actinide chlorides from LiCl-KCl molten salt has been demonstrated here. Using the galvanic interaction between the Gd/Gd(III) and U/U(III) redox reactions, it is shown that UCl3 concentration in eutectic LiCl-KCl can be reduced from 8.06 wt.% (1.39 mol %) to 0.72 wt.% (0.12 mol %) in about an hour via plating U metal onto a steel basket. This is a simple process for returning actinides to the electrorefiner and minimizing their loss to the salt waste stream.

  18. TiO2 Nanoparticle Uptake by the Water Flea Daphnia magna via Different Routes is Calcium-Dependent.

    PubMed

    Tan, Ling-Yan; Huang, Bin; Xu, Shen; Wei, Zhong-Bo; Yang, Liu-Yan; Miao, Ai-Jun

    2016-07-19

    Calcium plays versatile roles in aquatic ecosystems. In this study, we investigated its effects on the uptake of polyacrylate-coated TiO2 nanoparticles (PAA-TiO2-NPs) by the water flea (cladoceran) Daphnia magna. Particle distribution in these daphnids was also visualized using synchrotron radiation-based micro X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and scanning electron microscopy. At low ambient Ca concentrations in the experimental medium ([Ca]dis), PAA-TiO2-NPs were well dispersed and distributed throughout the daphnid; the particle concentration was highest in the abdominal zone and the gut, as a result of endocytosis and passive drinking of the nanoparticles, respectively. Further, Ca induced PAA-TiO2-NP uptake as a result of the increased Ca influx. At a high [Ca]dis, the PAA-TiO2-NPs formed micrometer-sized aggregates that were ingested by D. magna and concentrated only in its gut, independent of the Ca influx. Our results demonstrated the multiple effects of Ca on nanoparticle bioaccumulation. Specifically, well-dispersed nanoparticles were taken up by D. magna through endocytosis and passive drinking whereas the uptake of micrometer-sized aggregates relied on active ingestion.

  19. Reaction-induced porosity fingering: Replacement dynamic and porosity evolution in the KBr-KCl system

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Beaudoin, Nicolas; Hamilton, Andrea; Koehn, Daniel; Shipton, Zoe Kai; Kelka, Ulrich

    2018-07-01

    In this contribution, we use X-ray computed micro-tomography (X-CT) to observe and quantify dynamic pattern and porosity formation in a fluid-mediated replacement reaction. The evolution of connected porosity distribution helps to understand how fluid can migrate through a transforming rock, for example during dolomitization, a phenomenon extensively reported in sedimentary basins. Two types of experiment were carried out, in both cases a single crystal of KBr was immersed in a static bath of saturated aqueous KCl at room temperature and atmospheric pressure, and in both cases the replacement process was monitored in 3D using X-CT. In the first type of experiment a crystal of KBr was taken out, scanned, and returned to the solution in cycles (discontinuous replacement). In the second type of experiment, 3 samples of KBr were continuously reacted for 15, 55 min and 5.5 h respectively, with the latter being replaced completely (continuous replacement). X-CT of KBr-KCl replacement offers new insights into dynamic porosity development and transport mechanisms during replacement. As the reaction progresses the sample composition changes from KBr to KCl via a K(Br, Cl) solid solution series which generates porosity in the form of fingers that account for a final molar volume reduction of 13% when pure KCl is formed. These fingers form during an initial and transient advection regime followed by a diffusion dominated system, which is reflected by the reaction propagation, front morphology, and mass evolution. The porosity develops as fingers perpendicular to the sample walls, which allow a faster transport of reactant than in the rest of the crystal, before fingers coarsen and connect laterally. In the continuous experiment, finger coarsening has a dynamic behaviour consistent with fingering processes observed in nature. In the discontinuous experiment, which can be compared to rock weathering or to replacement driven by intermittent fluid contact, the pore structure

  20. Enhancement of Cell Membrane Invaginations, Vesiculation and Uptake of Macromolecules by Protonation of the Cell Surface

    PubMed Central

    Ben-Dov, Nadav; Korenstein, Rafi

    2012-01-01

    The different pathways of endocytosis share an initial step involving local inward curvature of the cell’s lipid bilayer. It has been shown that to generate membrane curvature, proteins or lipids enforce transversal asymmetry of the plasma membrane. Thus it emerges as a general phenomenon that transversal membrane asymmetry is the common required element for the formation of membrane curvature. The present study demonstrates that elevating proton concentration at the cell surface stimulates the formation of membrane invaginations and vesiculation accompanied by efficient uptake of macromolecules (Dextran-FITC, 70 kD), relative to the constitutive one. The insensitivity of proton induced uptake to inhibiting treatments and agents of the known endocytic pathways suggests the entry of macromolecules to proceeds via a yet undefined route. This is in line with the fact that neither ATP depletion, nor the lowering of temperature, abolishes the uptake process. In addition, fusion mechanism such as associated with low pH uptake of toxins and viral proteins can be disregarded by employing the polysaccharide dextran as the uptake molecule. The proton induced uptake increases linearly in the extracellular pH range of 6.5 to 4.5, and possesses a steep increase at the range of 4> pH>3, reaching a plateau at pH≤3. The kinetics of the uptake implies that the induced vesicles release their content to the cytosol and undergo rapid recycling to the plasma membrane. We suggest that protonation of the cell’s surface induces local charge asymmetries across the cell membrane bilayer, inducing inward curvature of the cell membrane and consequent vesiculation and uptake. PMID:22558127

  1. Bromocriptine tablet of self-microemulsifying system adsorbed onto porous carrier to stimulate lipoproteins secretion for brain cellular uptake.

    PubMed

    Thongrangsalit, Sirigul; Phaechamud, Thawatchai; Lipipun, Vimolmas; Ritthidej, Garnpimol C

    2015-07-01

    Both low solubility and high hepatic metabolism cause low oral bioavailability of bromocriptine mesylate (BM) leading to very low drug amount in brain. Self-microemulsion (SME) tablets were developed to improve solubility, stimulate lipoprotein synthesis to promote lymphatic transport, avoid hepatic metabolism and target drug to brain. SME liquid containing castor oil, Tween(®) 80 and Cremophor(®) EL was prepared and then adsorbed onto solid carries, Aerosil(®)200, Aeroperl(®)300 or NeusilinUS2(®), yielding SME powders. The optimal ratios of SME liquid to carriers determined from flowability and scanning electron photomicrographs before tableting were 1.5:1, 2:1 and 2.5:1 for Aerosil(®)200, Aeroperl(®)300 and NeusilinUS2(®), respectively. Only Aeroperl(®)300 SME tablet had comparable dissolution to BM commercial tablet. From in vitro study in Caco-2 cells, fluorescein loaded SME tablet showed higher uptake than fluorescein loaded in either oil or surfactant. Although significantly lower amount of drug was permeated from SME tablet than from commercial tablet, higher drug uptake was obviously observed (P<0.05). In addition, higher lipoprotein synthesis expressing as content of apolipoprotein B (apo-B) found in secreted chylomicron resulted in higher drug uptake in co-culture of brain endothelial cells (bEnd.3) and astrocytes (CTX TNA2) from drug loaded SME tablet when compared to commercial tablet (P<0.05) due to binding of apo-B to LDL receptors expressed on the surface of endothelial cells. Therefore, tablet of SME adsorbed onto porous carrier potentially delivered BM to brain via lymphatic transport by increasing the lipoprotein synthesis. Copyright © 2015. Published by Elsevier B.V.

  2. Pressure induced structural phase transition in solid oxidizer KClO3: A first-principles study

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Yedukondalu, N.; Ghule, Vikas D.; Vaitheeswaran, G.

    2013-05-01

    High pressure behavior of potassium chlorate (KClO3) has been investigated from 0 to 10 GPa by means of first principles density functional theory calculations. The calculated ground state parameters, transition pressure, and phonon frequencies using semiempirical dispersion correction scheme are in excellent agreement with experiment. It is found that KClO3 undergoes a pressure induced first order phase transition with an associated volume collapse of 6.4% from monoclinic (P21/m) → rhombohedral (R3m) structure at 2.26 GPa, which is in good accord with experimental observation. However, the transition pressure was found to underestimate (0.11 GPa) and overestimate (3.57 GPa) using local density approximation and generalized gradient approximation functionals, respectively. Mechanical stability of both the phases is explained from the calculated single crystal elastic constants. In addition, the zone center phonon frequencies have been calculated using density functional perturbation theory at ambient as well as at high pressure and the lattice modes are found to soften under pressure between 0.6 and 1.2 GPa. The present study reveals that the observed structural phase transition leads to changes in the decomposition mechanism of KClO3 which corroborates with the experimental results.

  3. Pressure induced structural phase transition in solid oxidizer KClO3: a first-principles study.

    PubMed

    Yedukondalu, N; Ghule, Vikas D; Vaitheeswaran, G

    2013-05-07

    High pressure behavior of potassium chlorate (KClO3) has been investigated from 0 to 10 GPa by means of first principles density functional theory calculations. The calculated ground state parameters, transition pressure, and phonon frequencies using semiempirical dispersion correction scheme are in excellent agreement with experiment. It is found that KClO3 undergoes a pressure induced first order phase transition with an associated volume collapse of 6.4% from monoclinic (P2(1)/m) → rhombohedral (R3m) structure at 2.26 GPa, which is in good accord with experimental observation. However, the transition pressure was found to underestimate (0.11 GPa) and overestimate (3.57 GPa) using local density approximation and generalized gradient approximation functionals, respectively. Mechanical stability of both the phases is explained from the calculated single crystal elastic constants. In addition, the zone center phonon frequencies have been calculated using density functional perturbation theory at ambient as well as at high pressure and the lattice modes are found to soften under pressure between 0.6 and 1.2 GPa. The present study reveals that the observed structural phase transition leads to changes in the decomposition mechanism of KClO3 which corroborates with the experimental results.

  4. Carrageenan :the difference between PNG and KCL gel precipitation method as Lactobacillus acidophilus encapsulation material

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Setijawati, D.; Nursyam, H.; Salis, H.

    2018-04-01

    The study on the effects of using of materials and methods in the preparation of the microcapsules Lactobacillus acidophilus towards the viability has been done. The research method used is experimental laboratory design. Variable research was kind of material (A) as the first factor with sub factor (A1 = Eucheuma cottonii) (A2 = Eucheuma spinosum) (A3 = mixture of Eucheuma cottonii and Eucheuma spinosum 1:1 ratio), while the second factor is a method of extraction to produce caragenan (B) with sub factor (B1 = Philipine Natural Grade modification) (B2 = KCl gel Press Precipitation). Analysis of different influences uses Analysis Of Varians followed by Fisher’s test. Analysis of data uses Mini tab 16. The results shows that the kind of extraction factors and methods gave significantly different effects on the viability of Lactobacillus acidophilus. The highest mean of Viablity obtained in the treatment of materials with a mixture of Eucheuma cottonii and Eucheuma spinosum and used KCl Gel Press method is equal to 7.14 log (CFU / mL). It is ssuggested using of kappa-iota carrageenanmixture asencapsulation material with KCl Gel Press method on Lactobacillus acidophilus microencapsulation process because it treatment gavethe highest average of Lactobacillus acidophilus viability.

  5. Olanzapine and aripiprazole differentially affect glucose uptake and energy metabolism in human mononuclear blood cells.

    PubMed

    Stapel, Britta; Kotsiari, Alexandra; Scherr, Michaela; Hilfiker-Kleiner, Denise; Bleich, Stefan; Frieling, Helge; Kahl, Kai G

    2017-05-01

    The use of antipsychotics carries the risk of metabolic side effects, such as weight gain and new onset type-2 diabetes mellitus. The mechanisms of the observed metabolic alterations are not fully understood. We compared the effects of two atypical antipsychotics, one known to favor weight gain (olanzapine), the other not (aripiprazole), on glucose metabolism. Primary human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) were isolated and stimulated with olanzapine or aripiprazole for 72 h. Cellular glucose uptake was analyzed in vitro by 18F-FDG uptake. Further measurements comprised mRNA expression of glucose transporter (GLUT) 1 and 3, GLUT1 protein expression, DNA methylation of GLUT1 promoter region, and proteins involved in downstream glucometabolic processes. We observed a 2-fold increase in glucose uptake after stimulation with aripiprazole. In contrast, olanzapine stimulation decreased glucose uptake by 40%, accompanied by downregulation of the cellular energy sensor AMP activated protein kinase (AMPK). GLUT1 protein expression increased, GLUT1 mRNA expression decreased, and GLUT1 promoter was hypermethylated with both antipsychotics. Pyruvat-dehydrogenase (PDH) complex activity decreased with olanzapine only. Our findings suggest that the atypical antipsychotics olanzapine and aripiprazole differentially affect energy metabolism in PBMC. The observed decrease in glucose uptake in olanzapine stimulated PBMC, accompanied by decreased PDH point to a worsening in cellular energy metabolism not compensated by AMKP upregulation. In contrast, aripiprazole stimulation lead to increased glucose uptake, while not affecting PDH complex expression. The observed differences may be involved in the different metabolic profiles observed in aripiprazole and olanzapine treated patients. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  6. Cellular responses to nicotinic receptor activation are decreased after prolonged exposure to galantamine in human neuroblastoma cells.

    PubMed

    Barik, Jacques; Dajas-Bailador, Federico; Wonnacott, Susan

    2005-08-01

    In this study, we have examined cellular responses of neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells after chronic treatment with galantamine, a drug used to treat Alzheimer's disease that has a dual mechanism of action: inhibition of acetylcholinesterase and allosteric potentiation of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChR). Acute experiments confirmed that maximum potentiation of nicotinic responses occurs at 1 microM galantamine; hence this concentration was chosen for chronic treatment. Exposure to 1 microM galantamine for 4 days decreased Ca(2+) responses (by 19.8+/-3.6%) or [(3)H]noradrenaline ([(3)H]NA) release (by 23.9+/-3.3%) elicited by acute application of nicotine. KCl-evoked increases in intracellular Ca(2+) were also inhibited by 10.0+/-1.9% after 4 days' treatment with galantamine. These diminished responses are consistent with the downregulation of downstream cellular processes. Ca(2+) responses evoked by activation of muscarinic acetylcholine receptors were unaffected by chronic galantamine treatment. Exposure to the more potent acetylcholinesterase inhibitor rivastigmine (1 microM) for 4 days failed to alter nicotine-, KCl-, or muscarinic receptor-evoked increases in intracellular Ca(2+). These observations support the hypothesis that chronic galantamine exerts its effects through interaction with nAChR in this cell line. Exposure to 10 microM nicotine for 4 days produced decreases in acute nicotine- (18.0+/-3.5%) and KCl-evoked Ca(2+) responses (10.6+/-2.5%) and nicotine-evoked [(3)H]NA release (26.0+/-3.3%) that are comparable to the effects of a corresponding exposure to galantamine. Treatment with 1 microM galantamine did not alter numbers of [(3)H]epibatidine-binding sites in SH-SY5Y cells, in contrast to 62% upregulation of these sites in response to 10 microM nicotine. Thus, chronic galantamine acts at nAChR to decrease subsequent functional responses to acute stimulation with nicotine or KCl. This effect appears to be independent of the upregulation of n

  7. Ca2+ removal mechanisms in rat cerebral resistance size arteries.

    PubMed Central

    Kamishima, T; McCarron, J G

    1998-01-01

    Tissue blood flow and blood pressure are each regulated by the contractile behavior of resistance artery smooth muscle. Vascular diseases such as hypertension have also been attributed to changes in vascular smooth muscle function as a consequence of altered Ca2+ removal. In the present study of Ca2+ removal mechanisms, in dissociated single cells from resistance arteries using fura-2 microfluorimetry and voltage clamp, Ca2+ uptake by the sarcoplasmic reticulum and extrusion by the Ca2+ pump in the cell membrane were demonstrably important in regulating Ca2+. In contrast, the Na+-Ca2+ exchanger played no detectable role in clearing Ca2+. Thus a voltage pulse to 0 mV, from a holding potential of -70 mV, triggered a Ca2+ influx and increased intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i). On repolarization, [Ca2+]i returned to the resting level. The decline in [Ca2+]i consisted of three phases. Ca2+ removal was fast immediately after repolarization (first phase), then plateaued (second phase), and finally accelerated just before [Ca2+]i returned to resting levels (third phase). Thapsigargin or ryanodine, which each inhibit Ca2+ uptake into stores, did not affect the first but significantly inhibited the third phase. On the other hand, Na+ replacement with choline+ did not affect either the phasic features of Ca2+ removal or the absolute rate of its decline. Ca2+ removal was voltage-independent; holding the membrane potential at 120 mV, rather than at -70 mV, after the voltage pulse to 0 mV, did not attenuate Ca2+ removal rate. These results suggest that Ca2+ pumps in the sarcoplasmic reticulum and the plasma membrane, but not the Na+-Ca2+ exchanger, are important in Ca2+ removal in cerebral resistance artery cells. PMID:9746518

  8. WE-AB-BRB-05: Toward a 2D Water-Equivalent Dosimetry Panel Using KCl:Eu2+

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Mazur, T; Wang, Y; Li, H

    Purpose: KCl:Eu2+ storage phosphor shows promise for radiation therapy dosimetry. The purpose of this work is to investigate several important aspects of this material for potential commercial use. Methods: KCl:Eu2+ chips were fabricated and a conformal coating using Parylene was applied. Material’s dose response in a 6 MV beam was investigated using Monte-Carlo simulations. We attempted to micronize the materials using a spiral jet mill. As we did not have a water-free glovebox, we used commercially available non-hygroscopic BaFBr0.85I0.15:Eu2+ computed radiography material to test if a homogeneous panel can be made using micron-sized phosphors. Results: Dosimeters remained intact and showedmore » no change in PSL intensity after eight hrs of submersion in water. We then optically bleached the samples for reuse, irradiated and immersed for another 24 hrs. We observed marginal worsening of the PSL signal for both the soaked and un-soaked chips. By contrast, we were unable to measure PSL intensity of the un-coated pellets due to these pellets dissolving within minutes of being immersed in water. MC data indicate that the micron-sized KCl:Eu2+ is predicted to have a nearly water-equivalent response. KCl:Eu2+ particles with a median size of 3 microns can be produced using a jet mill, which could be reduced further if necessary. While the particles tend to agglomerate over time when stored in a desiccator, they still possess favorable d50’s and d99’s even after 100 minutes, providing an adequate time window for making a panel via tape casting. A panel cast using optimized methods exhibits nearly perfect particle arrangement. Conclusions: Data shown here support ongoing efforts in fabricating a reusable, high resolution dosimetry panel in a water-free glovebox using micron-sized KCl:Eu2+ particles separated by water-equivalent polymers. The conformal coating thereafter will provide good humidity resistance. HL is the founder of DoseImaging, LLC that is

  9. Effects of deoxygenation on active and passive Ca2+ transport and cytoplasmic Ca2+ buffering in normal human red cells.

    PubMed Central

    Tiffert, T; Etzion, Z; Bookchin, R M; Lew, V L

    1993-01-01

    1. The effects of deoxygenation on cytoplasmic Ca2+ buffering, saturated Ca2+ extrusion rate through the Ca2+ pump (Vmax), passive Ca2+ influx and physiological [Ca2+]i level were investigated in human red cells to assess whether or not their Ca2+ metabolism might be altered by deoxygenation in capillaries and venous circulation. 2. The study was performed in fresh human red cells maintained in a tonometer either fully oxygenated or deoxygenated. Cytoplasmic Ca2+ buffering was estimated from the equilibrium distribution of 45Ca2+ induced by the divalent cation ionophore A23187 and the Vmax of the Ca2+ pump was measured either by the Co(2+)-exposure method or following ionophore wash-out. The passive Ca2+ influx and physiological [Ca2+]i were determined in cells preloaded with the Ca2+ chelator benz-2 and resuspended in autologous plasma. 3. Deoxygenation increased the fraction of ionized Ca2+ in cell water by 34-74% and reduced the Vmax of the Ca2+ pump by 18-32%. 4. To elucidate whether or not these effects were secondary to deoxygenation-induced pH shifts, the effects of deoxygenation on cell and medium pH, and of pH on cytoplasmic Ca2+ binding and Ca2+ pump Vmax in oxygenated cells were examined in detail. 5. Deoxygenation generated large alkaline pH shifts that could be explained if the apparent isoelectric point (pI) of haemoglobin increased by 0.2-0.4 pH units in intact cells, consistently higher than the value of 0.15 reported for pure haemoglobin solutions. 6. In oxygenated cells, the fraction of ionized cell calcium, alpha, was little affected by pH within the 7.0-7.7 range. Ca2+ pump Vmax was maximal at a medium pH of about 7.55. Comparison between pH effects elicited by HCl-NaOH additions and by replacing Cl- with gluconate suggested that Vmax was inhibited by both internal acidification and external alkalinization. Since deoxygenation alkalinized cells and medium within a range stimulatory for Vmax, the inhibition observed was not due to pH. 7. There

  10. Enhancement of nitrate uptake and growth of barley seedlings by calcium under saline conditions

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Ward, M. R.; Aslam, M.; Huffaker, R. C.

    1986-01-01

    The effect of Ca2+ on NO3- assimilation in young barley (Hordeum vulgare L. var CM 72) seedlings in the presence and absence of NaCl was studied. Calcium increased the activity of the NO3- transporter under saline conditions, but had little effect under nonsaline conditions. Calcium decreased the induction period for the NO3- transporter under both saline and nonsaline conditions but had little effect on its apparent Km for NO3- both in the presence and absence of NaCl. The enhancement of NO3- transport by Ca2+ under saline conditions was dependent on the presence of Ca2+ in the uptake solution along with the salt, since Ca2+ had no effect when supplied before or after salinity stress. Although Mn2+ and Mg2+ enhanced NO3- uptake under saline conditions, neither was as effective as Ca2+. In longer studies, increasing the Ca2+ concentration in saline nutrient solutions resulted in increases in NO3- assimilation and seedling growth.

  11. Pharmacological characterization of the voltage-dependent Ca2+ channels present in synaptosomes from rat and chicken central nervous system.

    PubMed

    Alvarez Maubecin, V; Sanchez, V N; Rosato Siri, M D; Cherksey, B D; Sugimori, M; Llinás, R; Uchitel, O D

    1995-06-01

    The voltage-dependent calcium channels present in mammalian and chicken brain synaptosomes were characterized pharmacologically using specific blockers of L-type channels (1,4-dihydropyridines), N-type channels (omega-conotoxin GVIA), and P-type channels [funnel web toxin (FTX) and omega-agatoxin IVA]. K(+)-induced Ca2+ uptake by chicken synaptosomes was blocked by omega-conotoxin GVIA (IC50 = 250 nM). This toxin at 5 microM did not block Ca2+ entry into rat frontal cortex synaptosomes. FTX and omega-agatoxin IVA blocked Ca2+ uptake by rat synaptosomes (IC50 = 0.17 microliter/ml and 40 nM, respectively). Likewise, in chicken synaptosomes, FTX and omega-agatoxin IVA affected Ca2+ uptake, FTX (3 microliters/ml) exerted a maximal inhibition of 40% with an IC50 similar to the one obtained in rat preparations, whereas with omega-agatoxin IVA saturation was not reached even at 5 microM. In chicken preparations, the combined effect of saturating concentrations of FTX (1 microliter/ml) and different concentrations of omega-conotoxin GVIA showed no additive effects. However, the effect of saturating concentrations of FTX and omega-conotoxin GVIA was never greater than the one observed with omega-conotoxin GVIA. We also found that 60% of the Ca2+ uptake by rat and chicken synaptosomes was inhibited by omega-conotoxin MVIID (1 microM), a toxin that has a high index of discrimination against N-type channels. Conversely, nitrendipine (10 microM) had no significant effect on Ca2+ uptake in either the rat or the chicken. In conclusion, Ca2+ uptake by rat synaptosomes is potently inhibited by different P-type Ca2+ channel blockers, thus indicating that P-type channels are predominant in this preparation.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

  12. Stimulatory effect of insulin on glucose uptake by muscle involves the central nervous system in insulin-sensitive mice.

    PubMed

    Coomans, Claudia P; Biermasz, Nienke R; Geerling, Janine J; Guigas, Bruno; Rensen, Patrick C N; Havekes, Louis M; Romijn, Johannes A

    2011-12-01

    Insulin inhibits endogenous glucose production (EGP) and stimulates glucose uptake in peripheral tissues. Hypothalamic insulin signaling is required for the inhibitory effects of insulin on EGP. We examined the contribution of central insulin signaling on circulating insulin-stimulated tissue-specific glucose uptake. Tolbutamide, an inhibitor of ATP-sensitive K(+) channels (K(ATP) channels), or vehicle was infused into the lateral ventricle in the basal state and during hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic conditions in postabsorptive, chow-fed C57Bl/6J mice and in postabsorptive C57Bl/6J mice with diet-induced obesity. Whole-body glucose uptake was measured by d-[(14)C]glucose kinetics and tissue-specific glucose uptake by 2-deoxy-d-[(3)H]glucose uptake. During clamp conditions, intracerebroventricular administration of tolbutamide impaired the ability of insulin to inhibit EGP by ∼20%. In addition, intracerebroventricular tolbutamide diminished insulin-stimulated glucose uptake in muscle (by ∼59%) but not in heart or adipose tissue. In contrast, in insulin-resistant mice with diet-induced obesity, intracerebroventricular tolbutamide did not alter the effects of insulin during clamp conditions on EGP or glucose uptake by muscle. Insulin stimulates glucose uptake in muscle in part through effects via K(ATP) channels in the central nervous system, in analogy with the inhibitory effects of insulin on EGP. High-fat diet-induced obesity abolished the central effects of insulin on liver and muscle. These observations stress the role of central insulin resistance in the pathophysiology of diet-induced insulin resistance.

  13. HCO3(-) secretion by murine nasal submucosal gland serous acinar cells during Ca2+-stimulated fluid secretion.

    PubMed

    Lee, Robert J; Harlow, Janice M; Limberis, Maria P; Wilson, James M; Foskett, J Kevin

    2008-07-01

    Airway submucosal glands contribute to airway surface liquid (ASL) composition and volume, both important for lung mucociliary clearance. Serous acini generate most of the fluid secreted by glands, but the molecular mechanisms remain poorly characterized. We previously described cholinergic-regulated fluid secretion driven by Ca(2+)-activated Cl(-) secretion in primary murine serous acinar cells revealed by simultaneous differential interference contrast (DIC) and fluorescence microscopy. Here, we evaluated whether Ca(2+)-activated Cl(-) secretion was accompanied by secretion of HCO(3)(-), possibly a critical ASL component, by simultaneous measurements of intracellular pH (pH(i)) and cell volume. Resting pH(i) was 7.17 +/- 0.01 in physiological medium (5% CO(2)-25 mM HCO(3)(-)). During carbachol (CCh) stimulation, pH(i) fell transiently by 0.08 +/- 0.01 U concomitantly with a fall in Cl(-) content revealed by cell shrinkage, reflecting Cl(-) secretion. A subsequent alkalinization elevated pH(i) to above resting levels until agonist removal, whereupon it returned to prestimulation values. In nominally CO(2)-HCO(3)(-)-free media, the CCh-induced acidification was reduced, whereas the alkalinization remained intact. Elimination of driving forces for conductive HCO(3)(-) efflux by ion substitution or exposure to the Cl(-) channel inhibitor niflumic acid (100 microM) strongly inhibited agonist-induced acidification by >80% and >70%, respectively. The Na(+)/H(+) exchanger (NHE) inhibitor dimethylamiloride (DMA) increased the magnitude (greater than twofold) and duration of the CCh-induced acidification. Gene expression profiling suggested that serous cells express NHE isoforms 1-4 and 6-9, but pharmacological sensitivities demonstrated that alkalinization observed during both CCh stimulation and pH(i) recovery from agonist-induced acidification was primarily due to NHE1, localized to the basolateral membrane. These results suggest that serous acinar cells secrete HCO(3

  14. Preparation of Al-La Master Alloy by Thermite Reaction in NaF-NaCl-KCl Molten Salt

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Jang, Poknam; Li, Hyonmo; Kim, Wenjae; Wang, Zhaowen; Liu, Fengguo

    2015-05-01

    A NaF-NaCl-KCl ternary system containing La2O3 was investigated for the preparation of Al-La master alloy by the thermite reaction method. The solubility of La2O3 in NaF-NaCl-KCl molten salt was determined by the method of isothermal solution saturation. Inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectroscopy and x-ray diffraction (XRD) analyses were used to consider the content of La2O3 in molten salt and the supernatant composition of molten salt after dissolution of La2O3, respectively. The results showed that the content of NaF had a positive influence on the solubility of La2O3 in NaF-NaCl-KCl molten salts, and the solubility of La2O3 could reach 8.71 wt.% in molten salts of 50 wt.%NaF-50 wt.% (44 wt.%NaCl + 56 wt.%KCl). The XRD pattern of cooling molten salt indicated the formation of LaOF in molten salt, which was probably obtained by the reaction between NaF and La2O3. The kinetic study showed that the thermite reaction was in accord with a first-order reaction model. The main influence factors on La content in the Al-La master alloy product, including molten salt composition, amount of Al, concentration of La2O3, stirring, reduction time and temperature, were investigated by single-factor experimentation. The content of La in the Al-La master alloy could be reached to 10.1 wt.%.

  15. La3+ uptake and its effect on the cytoskeleton in root protoplasts of Zea mays L.

    PubMed

    Liu, Min; Hasenstein, Karl H

    2005-03-01

    La(3+) ions are known to antagonize Ca(2+) and are used as a Ca(2+) channel blocker but little is known on the direct effects of La(3+). Micromolar La(3+) concentrations promoted root growth while higher concentrations were inhibitory. The uptake of La(3+) in maize root protoplasts revealed a membrane binding component (0.14 and 0.44 pmol min(-1) protoplast(-1) for 100 and 1,000 microM La(3+)) followed by a slower concentration and time-dependent uptake. Uptake was reduced by Ca(2+), but had no substantial effect on other ions. La(3+) shifted microtubule organization from random to parallel but caused aggregation of microfilaments. Our data suggest that La(3+) is taken up into plant cells and affects growth via stabilization of the cytoskeleton.

  16. Vagus nerve stimulation enhances perforant path-CA3 synaptic transmission via the activation of β-adrenergic receptors and the locus coeruleus.

    PubMed

    Shen, Huilian; Fuchino, Yuta; Miyamoto, Daisuke; Nomura, Hiroshi; Matsuki, Norio

    2012-05-01

    Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) is an approved treatment for epilepsy and depression and has cognition-enhancing effects in patients with Alzheimer's disease. The hippocampus is widely recognized to be related to epilepsy, depression, and Alzheimer's disease. One possible mechanism of VNS involves its effect on the hippocampus; i.e. it increases the release of noradrenaline in the hippocampus. However, the effect of VNS on synaptic transmission in the hippocampus is unknown. To determine whether VNS modulates neurotransmission in the hippocampus, we examined the effects of VNS on perforant path (PP)-CA3 synaptic transmission electrophysiologically in anaesthetized rats. VNS induces a persistent enhancement of PP-CA3 field excitatory post-synaptic potentials (fEPSPs). Arc, an immediate early gene, was used to identify active brain regions after VNS. The locus coeruleus (LC), which contains the perikarya of noradrenergic projections, harboured more Arc-positive cells, as measured by in-situ hybridization, after 10-min VNS. In addition, electrical lesions of LC neurons or intraventricular administration of the β-adrenergic receptor antagonist timolol prevented the enhancement of PP-CA3 responses by VNS. In conclusion, the protracted increase in PP-CA3 synaptic transmission that is induced by VNS entails activation of the LC and β-adrenergic receptors. Our novel findings suggest that information from the periphery modulates synaptic transmission in the CA3 region of the hippocampus.

  17. Effects of AICAR and exercise on insulin-stimulated glucose uptake, signaling, and GLUT-4 content in rat muscles.

    PubMed

    Jessen, Niels; Pold, Rasmus; Buhl, Esben S; Jensen, Lasse S; Schmitz, Ole; Lund, Sten

    2003-04-01

    Physical activity is known to increase insulin action in skeletal muscle, and data have indicated that 5'-AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) is involved in the molecular mechanisms behind this beneficial effect. 5-Aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide-1-beta-d-ribofuranoside (AICAR) can be used as a pharmacological tool to repetitively activate AMPK, and the objective of this study was to explore whether the increase in insulin-stimulated glucose uptake after either long-term exercise or chronic AICAR administration was followed by fiber-type-specific changes in insulin signaling and/or changes in GLUT-4 expression. Wistar rats were allocated into three groups: an exercise group trained on treadmill for 5 days, an AICAR group exposed to daily subcutaneous injections of AICAR, and a sedentary control group. AMPK activity, insulin-stimulated glucose transport, insulin signaling, and GLUT-4 expression were determined in muscles characterized by different fiber type compositions. Both exercised and AICAR-injected animals displayed a fiber-type-specific increase in glucose transport with the most marked increase in muscles with a high content of type IIb fibers. This increase was accompanied by a concomitant increase in GLUT-4 expression. Insulin signaling as assessed by phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase and PKB/Akt activity was enhanced only after AICAR administration and in a non-fiber-type-specific manner. In conclusion, chronic AICAR administration and long-term exercise both improve insulin-stimulated glucose transport in skeletal muscle in a fiber-type-specific way, and this is associated with an increase in GLUT-4 content.

  18. Distillation and condensation of LiCl-KCl eutectic salts for a separation of pure salts from salt wastes from an electrorefining process

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Eun, Hee Chul; Yang, Hee Chul; Lee, Han Soo; Kim, In Tae

    2009-12-01

    Salt separation and recovery from the salt wastes generated from a pyrochemical process is necessary to minimize the high-level waste volumes and to stabilize a final waste form. In this study, the thermal behavior of the LiCl-KCl eutectic salts containing rare earth oxychlorides or oxides was investigated during a vacuum distillation and condensation process. LiCl was more easily vaporized than the other salts (KCl and LiCl-KCl eutectic salt). Vaporization characteristics of LiCl-KCl eutectic salts were similar to that of KCl. The temperature to obtain the vaporization flux (0.1 g min -1 cm -2) was decreased by much as 150 °C by a reduction of the ambient pressure from 5 Torr to 0.5 Torr. Condensation behavior of the salt vapors was different with the ambient pressure. Almost all of the salt vapors were condensed and were formed into salt lumps during a salt distillation at the ambient pressure of 0.5 Torr and they were collected in the condensed salt storage. However, fine salt particles were formed when the salt distillation was performed at 10 Torr and it is difficult for them to be recovered. Therefore, it is thought that a salt vacuum distillation and condensation should be performed to recover almost all of the vaporized salts at a pressure below 0.5 Torr.

  19. Is there a potential consumer market for low-sodium fermented sausages?

    PubMed

    Dos Santos, Bibiana A; Campagnol, Paulo C B; da Cruz, Adriano G; Morgano, Marcelo A; Wagner, Roger; Pollonio, Marise A R

    2015-05-01

    The NaCl levels in dry fermented sausages were reduced by 50% or were substituted with KCl, CaCl2 , or a blend of KCl and CaCl2 (1:1). The quality, safety, and the potential consumer market of dry fermented sausages were assessed. Neither 50% reduction of the NaCl content nor the substitution of 50% of the NaCl with KCl influenced the fermentation and maturation process. However, when CaCl2 was used as the substitute salt (50%), there was a significant decrease in pH, an increase in the water activity, and a decrease in lactic acid and micrococcus bacterial counts. Overall, the sensory acceptance decreased in dry fermented sausages with reduced sodium content. However, cluster analysis and internal preference mapping revealed potential for commercialization of samples with 50% of the NaCl content substituted with KCl or with a mixture of KCl and CaCl2 (1:1). © 2015 Institute of Food Technologists®

  20. Ca2+ Dependence of Synaptic Vesicle Endocytosis.

    PubMed

    Leitz, Jeremy; Kavalali, Ege T

    2016-10-01

    Ca(2+)-dependent synaptic vesicle recycling is essential for structural homeostasis of synapses and maintenance of neurotransmission. Although, the executive role of intrasynaptic Ca(2+) transients in synaptic vesicle exocytosis is well established, identifying the exact role of Ca(2+) in endocytosis has been difficult. In some studies, Ca(2+) has been suggested as an essential trigger required to initiate synaptic vesicle retrieval, whereas others manipulating synaptic Ca(2+) concentrations reported a modulatory role for Ca(2+) leading to inhibition or acceleration of endocytosis. Molecular studies of synaptic vesicle endocytosis, on the other hand, have consistently focused on the roles of Ca(2+)-calmodulin dependent phosphatase calcineurin and synaptic vesicle protein synaptotagmin as potential Ca(2+) sensors for endocytosis. Most studies probing the role of Ca(2+) in endocytosis have relied on measurements of synaptic vesicle retrieval after strong stimulation. Strong stimulation paradigms elicit fusion and retrieval of multiple synaptic vesicles and therefore can be affected by several factors besides the kinetics and duration of Ca(2+) signals that include the number of exocytosed vesicles and accumulation of released neurotransmitters thus altering fusion and retrieval processes indirectly via retrograde signaling. Studies monitoring single synaptic vesicle endocytosis may help resolve this conundrum as in these settings the impact of Ca(2+) on synaptic fusion probability can be uncoupled from its putative role on synaptic vesicle retrieval. Future experiments using these single vesicle approaches will help dissect the specific role(s) of Ca(2+) and its sensors in synaptic vesicle endocytosis. © The Author(s) 2015.

  1. Ryanodine receptors decant internal Ca2+ store in human and bovine airway smooth muscle.

    PubMed

    Tazzeo, T; Zhang, Y; Keshavjee, S; Janssen, L J

    2008-08-01

    Several putative roles for ryanodine receptors (RyR) were investigated in human and bovine airway smooth muscle. Changes in intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) and membrane current were investigated in single cells by confocal fluorimetry and patch-clamp electrophysiology, respectively, whereas mechanical activity was monitored in intact strips with force transducers. RyR released Ca2+ from the sarcoplasmic reticulum in a ryanodine- and chloroethyl phenol (CEP)-sensitive fashion. Neither ryanodine nor CEP inhibited responses to KCl, cholinergic agonists or serotonin, indicating no direct role for RyR in contraction; in fact, there was some augmentation of these responses. In tissues pre-contracted with carbachol, the concentration-response relationships for isoproterenol and salmeterol were unaffected by ryanodine; relaxations due to a nitric oxide donor were also largely unaffected. Finally, it was examined whether RyR were involved in regulating [Ca2+]i within the subplasmalemmal space using patch-clamp electrophysiology as well as Ca2+ fluorimetry: isoproterenol increased [Ca2+]i- and Ca2+-dependent K+ current activity in a ryanodine-sensitive fashion. In conclusion, ryanodine receptors in airway smooth muscle are not important in directly mediating contraction or relaxation. The current authors speculate instead that these allow the sarcoplasmic reticulum to release Ca2+ towards the plasmalemma (to unload an overly full Ca2+ store and/or increase the Ca2+-buffering capacity of the sarcoplasmic reticulum) without affecting bronchomotor tone.

  2. Phase relations in the system NaCl-KCl-H2O: V. Thermodynamic-PTX analysis of solid-liquid equilibria at high temperatures and pressures

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Sterner, S.M.; Chou, I.-Ming; Downs, R.T.; Pitzer, Kenneth S.

    1992-01-01

    The Gibbs energies of mixing for NaCl-KCl binary solids and liquids and solid-saturated NaCl-KCl-H2O ternary liquids were modeled using asymmetric Margules treatments. The coefficients of the expressions were calibrated using an extensive array of binary solvus and solidus data, and both binary and ternary liquidus data. Over the PTX range considered, the system exhibits complete liquid miscibility among all three components and extensive solid solution along the anhydrous binary. Solid-liquid and solid-solid phase equilibria were calculated by using the resulting equations and invoking the equality of chemical potentials of NaCl and KCl between appropriate phases at equilibrium. The equations reproduce the ternary liquidus and predict activity coefficients for NaCl and KCl components in the aqueous liquid under solid-saturation conditions between 673 and 1200 K from vapor saturation up to 5 kbar. In the NaCl-KCl anhydrous binary system, the equations describe phase equilibria and predict activity coefficients of the salt components for all stable compositions of solid and liquid phases between room temperature and 1200 K and from 1 bar to 5 kbar. ?? 1992.

  3. Activation of the Ca2+-sensing receptors increases currents through inward rectifier K+ channels via activation of phosphatidylinositol 4-kinase.

    PubMed

    Liu, Chung-Hung; Chang, Hsueh-Kai; Lee, Sue-Ping; Shieh, Ru-Chi

    2016-11-01

    Inward rectifier K + channels are important for maintaining normal electrical function in many cell types. The proper function of these channels requires the presence of membrane phosphoinositide 4,5-bisphosphate (PIP 2 ). Stimulation of the Ca 2+ -sensing receptor CaR, a pleiotropic G protein-coupled receptor, activates both G q/11 , which decreases PIP 2 , and phosphatidylinositol 4-kinase (PI-4-K), which, conversely, increases PIP 2 . How membrane PIP 2 levels are regulated by CaR activation and whether these changes modulate inward rectifier K + are unknown. In this study, we found that activation of CaR by the allosteric agonist, NPSR568, increased inward rectifier K + current (I K1 ) in guinea pig ventricular myocytes and currents mediated by Kir2.1 channels exogenously expressed in HEK293T cells with a similar sensitivity. Moreover, using the fluorescent PIP 2 reporter tubby-R332H-cYFP to monitor PIP 2 levels, we found that CaR activation in HEK293T cells increased membrane PIP 2 concentrations. Pharmacological studies showed that both phospholipase C (PLC) and PI-4-K are activated by CaR stimulation with the latter played a dominant role in regulating membrane PIP 2 and, thus, Kir currents. These results provide the first direct evidence that CaR activation upregulates currents through inward rectifier K + channels by accelerating PIP 2 synthesis. The regulation of I K1 plays a critical role in the stability of the electrical properties of many excitable cells, including cardiac myocytes and neurons. Further, synthetic allosteric modulators that increase CaR activity have been used to treat hyperparathyroidism, and negative CaR modulators are of potential importance in the treatment of osteoporosis. Thus, our results provide further insight into the roles played by CaR in the cardiovascular system and are potentially valuable for heart disease treatment and drug safety.

  4. Biodynamic modeling of PCB uptake by Macoma balthica and Corbicula fluminea from sediment amended with activated carbon

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    McLeod, Pamela B.; Luoma, S.N.; Luthy, R.G.

    2008-01-01

    Activated carbon amendment was assessed in the laboratory as a remediation strategy for freshwater sediment contaminated with polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) from the Grasse River (near Massena, NY). Three end points were evaluated: aqueous equilibrium PCB concentration, uptake into semipermeable membrane devices (SPMDs), and 28-day bioaccumulation in the clam Corbicula fluminea. PCB uptake by water, SPMDs, and clams followed similar trends, with reductions increasing as a function of carbon dose. Average percent reductions in clam tissue PCBs were 67, 86, and 95% for activated carbon doses of 0.7, 1.3, and 2.5% dry wt, respectively. A biodynamic model that incorporates sediment geochemistry and dietary and aqueous uptake routes was found to agree well with observed uptake by C. fluminea in our laboratory test systems. Results from this study were compared to 28-day bioaccumulation experiments involving PCB-contaminated sediment from Hunters Point Naval Shipyard (San Francisco Bay, CA) and the clam Macoma balthica. Due to differences in feeding strategy, M. balthica deposit-feeds whereas C. fluminea filter-feeds, the relative importance of the aqueous uptake route is predicted to be much higher for C. fluminea than for M. balthica. Whereas M. balthica takes up approximately 90% of its body burden through sediment ingestion, C. fluminea only accumulates approximately 45% via this route. In both cases, results strongly suggest that it is the mass transfer of PCBs from native sediment to added carbon particles, not merely reductions in aqueous PCB concentrations, that effectively reduces PCB bioavailability and uptake by sediment-dwelling organisms. ?? 2008 American Chemical Society.

  5. TMBIM-mediated Ca 2+ homeostasis and cell death

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Liu, Qun

    Ca 2+ is a ubiquitous intracellular messenger that regulates numerous physiological activities in humans, animals, plants, and bacteria. Cytosolic Ca 2+ is kept at a low level, but subcellular organelles such as the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and Golgi Apparatus maintain high-concentration Ca 2+ stores. Under resting conditions, store Ca 2+ homeostasis is dynamically regulated to equilibrate between active Ca 2+ uptake and passive Ca 2+ leak processes. The evolutionarily conserved Transmembrane BAX Inhibitor-1 Motif-containing (TMBIM) proteins mediate Ca 2+ homeostasis and cell death. This review focuses on recent advances in functional and structural analysis of TMBIM proteins in regulation ofmore » the two related functions. The roles of TMBIM proteins in pathogen infection and cancer are also discussed with prospects for treatment.« less

  6. TMBIM-mediated Ca 2+ homeostasis and cell death

    DOE PAGES

    Liu, Qun

    2017-01-05

    Ca 2+ is a ubiquitous intracellular messenger that regulates numerous physiological activities in humans, animals, plants, and bacteria. Cytosolic Ca 2+ is kept at a low level, but subcellular organelles such as the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and Golgi Apparatus maintain high-concentration Ca 2+ stores. Under resting conditions, store Ca 2+ homeostasis is dynamically regulated to equilibrate between active Ca 2+ uptake and passive Ca 2+ leak processes. The evolutionarily conserved Transmembrane BAX Inhibitor-1 Motif-containing (TMBIM) proteins mediate Ca 2+ homeostasis and cell death. This review focuses on recent advances in functional and structural analysis of TMBIM proteins in regulation ofmore » the two related functions. The roles of TMBIM proteins in pathogen infection and cancer are also discussed with prospects for treatment.« less

  7. [Endoplasmic-mitochondrial Ca(2+)-functional unit: dependence of respiration of secretory cells on activity of ryanodine- and IP3 - sensitive Ca(2+)-channels].

    PubMed

    Velykopols'ka, O Iu; Man'ko, B O; Man'ko, V V

    2012-01-01

    Using Clark oxygen electrode, dependence of mitochondrial functions on Ca(2+)-release channels activity of Chironomus plumosus L. larvae salivary glands suspension was investigated. Cells were ATP-permeabilized in order to enable penetration of exogenous oxidative substrates. Activation of plasmalemmal P2X-receptors (as well as P2Y-receptors) per se does not modify the endogenous respiration of salivary gland suspension. That is, Ca(2+)-influx from extracellular medium does not influence functional activity of mitochondria, although they are located along the basal part of the plasma membrane. Activation of RyRs intensifies endogenous respiration and pyruvate-malate-stimulated respiration, but not succinate-stimulated respiration. Neither activation of IP3Rs (via P2Y-receptors activation), nor their inhibition alters endogenous respiration. Nevertheless, IP3Rs inhibition by 2-APB intensifies succinate-stimulated respiration. All abovementioned facts testify that Ca2+, released from stores via channels, alters functional activity of mitochondria, and undoubtedly confirm the existence of endoplasmic-mitochondrial Ca(2+)-functional unit in Ch. plumosus larvae salivary glands secretory cells. In steady state of endoplasmic-mitochondrial Ca(2+)-functional unit the spontaneous activity of IP3Rs is observed; released through IP3Rs, Ca2+ is accumulated in mitochondria via uniporter and modulates oxidative processes. Activation of RyRs induces the transition of endoplasmic-mitochondrial Ca(2+)-functional unit to the active state, which is required to intensify cell respiration and oxidative phosphorylation. As expected, the transition of endoplasmic-mitochondrial Ca(2+)-functional unit to inactivated state (i. e. inhibition of Ca(2+)-release channels at excessive [Ca2+]i) limits the duration of signal transduction, has protective nature and prevents apoptosis.

  8. Calcium-ion transport by intact Ehrlich ascites-tumour cells. Role of respiratory substrates, Pi and temperature.

    PubMed

    Charlton, R R; Wenner, C E

    1978-03-15

    1. The interaction of intact Ehrlich ascites-tumour cells with Ca2+ at 37 degrees C consists of Ca2+ uptake followed by efflux from the cells. Under optimum conditions, two or three cycles of uptake and efflux are observed in the first 15 min after Ca2+ addition. 2. The respiratory substrates malate, succinate and ascorbate plus p-phenylenediamine support Ca2+ uptake. Ca2+ uptake at 37 degrees C is sensitive to the respiratory inhibitors rotenone and antimycin A when appropriate substrates are present. Ca2+ uptake and retention are inhibited by the uncoupler S-13. 3. Increasing extracellular Pi (12 to 30 mM) stimulates uncoupler-sensitive Ca2+ uptake, which reaches a maximum extent of 15 nmol/mg of protein when supported by succinate respiration. Ca2+ efflux is partially inhibited at 30 mM-Pi. 4. Optimum Ca2+ uptake occurs in the presence of succinate and Pi, suggesting that availability of substrate and Pi are rate-limiting. K. Ca2+ uptake occurs at 4 degrees C and is sensitive to uncouplers and oligomycin. Ca2+ efflux at this temperature is minimal. These data are consistent with a model in which passive diffusion of Ca2+ through the plasma membrane is followed by active uptake by the mitochondria. Ca2+ uptake is supported by substrates entering respiration at all three energy-coupling sites. Ca2+ efflux appears to be an active process with a high temperature coefficient.

  9. Dual role for myosin II in GLUT4-mediated glucose uptake in 3T3-L1 adipocytes.

    PubMed

    Fulcher, F Kent; Smith, Bethany T; Russ, Misty; Patel, Yashomati M

    2008-10-15

    Insulin-stimulated glucose uptake requires the activation of several signaling pathways to mediate the translocation and fusion of GLUT4 vesicles to the plasma membrane. Our previous studies demonstrated that GLUT4-mediated glucose uptake is a myosin II-dependent process in adipocytes. The experiments described in this report are the first to show a dual role for the myosin IIA isoform specifically in regulating insulin-stimulated glucose uptake in adipocytes. We demonstrate that inhibition of MLCK but not RhoK results in impaired insulin-stimulated glucose uptake. Furthermore, our studies show that insulin specifically stimulates the phosphorylation of the RLC associated with the myosin IIA isoform via MLCK. In time course experiments, we determined that GLUT4 translocates to the plasma membrane prior to myosin IIA recruitment. We further show that recruitment of myosin IIA to the plasma membrane requires that myosin IIA be activated via phosphorylation of the RLC by MLCK. Our findings also reveal that myosin II is required for proper GLUT4-vesicle fusion at the plasma membrane. We show that once at the plasma membrane, myosin II is involved in regulating the intrinsic activity of GLUT4 after insulin stimulation. Collectively, our results are the first to reveal that myosin IIA plays a critical role in mediating insulin-stimulated glucose uptake in 3T3-LI adipocytes, via both GLUT4 vesicle fusion at the plasma membrane and GLUT4 activity.

  10. Dual role for myosin II in GLUT4-mediated glucose uptake in 3T3-L1 adipocytes

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Fulcher, F. Kent; Smith, Bethany T.; Russ, Misty

    2008-10-15

    Insulin-stimulated glucose uptake requires the activation of several signaling pathways to mediate the translocation and fusion of GLUT4 vesicles to the plasma membrane. Our previous studies demonstrated that GLUT4-mediated glucose uptake is a myosin II-dependent process in adipocytes. The experiments described in this report are the first to show a dual role for the myosin IIA isoform specifically in regulating insulin-stimulated glucose uptake in adipocytes. We demonstrate that inhibition of MLCK but not RhoK results in impaired insulin-stimulated glucose uptake. Furthermore, our studies show that insulin specifically stimulates the phosphorylation of the RLC associated with the myosin IIA isoform viamore » MLCK. In time course experiments, we determined that GLUT4 translocates to the plasma membrane prior to myosin IIA recruitment. We further show that recruitment of myosin IIA to the plasma membrane requires that myosin IIA be activated via phosphorylation of the RLC by MLCK. Our findings also reveal that myosin II is required for proper GLUT4-vesicle fusion at the plasma membrane. We show that once at the plasma membrane, myosin II is involved in regulating the intrinsic activity of GLUT4 after insulin stimulation. Collectively, our results are the first to reveal that myosin IIA plays a critical role in mediating insulin-stimulated glucose uptake in 3T3-LI adipocytes, via both GLUT4 vesicle fusion at the plasma membrane and GLUT4 activity.« less

  11. Exposure to altered gravity conditions results in hypoxia-related enhancement of the presynaptic transporter-mediated release of glutamate.

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Borisova, Tatiana

    High-affinity Na+-dependent glutamate transporters locate in the plasma membrane and maintain the low concentration of glutamate in synaptic cleft by the uptake of glutamate into neurons. Under hypoxic conditions glutamate transporters contribute to the glutamate release due to functioning in reverse mode. The release of glutamate via reverse-operated Na+-dependent glutamate transporters was investigated in brain synaptosomes under conditions of centrifugeinduced hypergravity. Flow cytometric analisis revealed similarity in the size and cytoplasmic granularity of control and hypergravity synaptosomes. Protonophore FCCP dissipates the proton gradient across synaptic vesicle thus synaptic vesicles are not able to keep glutamate inside. 1 microM FCCP induced the release of 4. 8 ±1. 0 % and 8. 0 ±1. 0 % of total accumulated synaptosomal label in control and G-loaded animals, respectively. Ca 2+-independent high- KCl stimulated L-[14C]glutamate release from synaptosomes preliminary treated with FCCP increased considerably from 27. 0 ± 2. 2 % to 35. 0 ± 2. 3 % after centrifuge-induced hypergravity. No-transportable inhibitor of glutamate transporter DL-threo-beta-benzyloxyaspartate was found to inhibit high-KCl and FCCP-stimulated release of L-[14C]glutamate, thus the release was concluded to occur due to reversal of glutamate transporters. We have also found the inhibition of the activity of Na \\ K ATPase in the plasma membrane of synaptosomes after hypergravity that might also contribute to the enhancement of the transporter-mediated release of glutamate. These hypergravity-induced alterations in the transporter-mediated release of glutamate were suggested to correlate with the hypoxic injury of neurons. The changes we have revealed for the transporter-mediated release of glutamate may lead to mental disorders, upcoming seizures and neurotoxicity under hypergravity conditions.

  12. The bovine TRPV3 as a pathway for the uptake of Na+, Ca2+, and NH4+

    PubMed Central

    Liebe, Franziska; Liebe, Hendrik

    2018-01-01

    Absorption of ammonia from the gastrointestinal tract results in problems that range from hepatic encephalopathy in humans to poor nitrogen efficiency of cattle with consequences for the global climate. Previous studies on epithelia and cells from the native ruminal epithelium suggest functional involvement of the bovine homologue of TRPV3 (bTRPV3) in ruminal NH4+ transport. Since the conductance of TRP channels to NH4+ has never been studied, bTRPV3 was overexpressed in HEK-293 cells and investigated using the patch-clamp technique and intracellular calcium imaging. Control cells contained the empty construct. Divalent cations blocked the conductance for monovalent cations in both cell types, with effects higher in cells expressing bTRPV3. In bTRPV3 cells, but not in controls, menthol, thymol, carvacrol, or 2-APB stimulated whole cell currents mediated by Na+, Cs+, NH4+, and K+, with a rise in intracellular Ca2+ observed in response to menthol. While only 25% of control patches showed single-channel events (with a conductance of 40.8 ± 11.9 pS for NH4+ and 25.0 ± 5.8 pS for Na+), 90% of bTRPV3 patches showed much larger conductances of 127.8 ± 4.2 pS for Na+, 240.1 ± 3.6 pS for NH4+, 34.0 ± 1.7 pS for Ca2+, and ~ 36 pS for NMDG+. Open probability, but not conductance, rose with time after patch excision. In conjunction with previous research, we suggest that bTRPV3 channels may play a role in the transport of Na+, K+, Ca2+ and NH4+ across the rumen with possible repercussions for understanding the function of TRPV3 in other epithelia. PMID:29494673

  13. The bovine TRPV3 as a pathway for the uptake of Na+, Ca2+, and NH4.

    PubMed

    Schrapers, Katharina T; Sponder, Gerhard; Liebe, Franziska; Liebe, Hendrik; Stumpff, Friederike

    2018-01-01

    Absorption of ammonia from the gastrointestinal tract results in problems that range from hepatic encephalopathy in humans to poor nitrogen efficiency of cattle with consequences for the global climate. Previous studies on epithelia and cells from the native ruminal epithelium suggest functional involvement of the bovine homologue of TRPV3 (bTRPV3) in ruminal NH4+ transport. Since the conductance of TRP channels to NH4+ has never been studied, bTRPV3 was overexpressed in HEK-293 cells and investigated using the patch-clamp technique and intracellular calcium imaging. Control cells contained the empty construct. Divalent cations blocked the conductance for monovalent cations in both cell types, with effects higher in cells expressing bTRPV3. In bTRPV3 cells, but not in controls, menthol, thymol, carvacrol, or 2-APB stimulated whole cell currents mediated by Na+, Cs+, NH4+, and K+, with a rise in intracellular Ca2+ observed in response to menthol. While only 25% of control patches showed single-channel events (with a conductance of 40.8 ± 11.9 pS for NH4+ and 25.0 ± 5.8 pS for Na+), 90% of bTRPV3 patches showed much larger conductances of 127.8 ± 4.2 pS for Na+, 240.1 ± 3.6 pS for NH4+, 34.0 ± 1.7 pS for Ca2+, and ~ 36 pS for NMDG+. Open probability, but not conductance, rose with time after patch excision. In conjunction with previous research, we suggest that bTRPV3 channels may play a role in the transport of Na+, K+, Ca2+ and NH4+ across the rumen with possible repercussions for understanding the function of TRPV3 in other epithelia.

  14. Endoplasmic Reticulum Ca2+ Handling in Excitable Cells in Health and Disease

    PubMed Central

    Mattson, Mark P.

    2011-01-01

    The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is a morphologically and functionally diverse organelle capable of integrating multiple extracellular and internal signals and generating adaptive cellular responses. It plays fundamental roles in protein synthesis and folding and in cellular responses to metabolic and proteotoxic stress. In addition, the ER stores and releases Ca2+ in sophisticated scenarios that regulate a range of processes in excitable cells throughout the body, including muscle contraction and relaxation, endocrine regulation of metabolism, learning and memory, and cell death. One or more Ca2+ ATPases and two types of ER membrane Ca2+ channels (inositol trisphosphate and ryanodine receptors) are the major proteins involved in ER Ca2+ uptake and release, respectively. There are also direct and indirect interactions of ER Ca2+ stores with plasma membrane and mitochondrial Ca2+-regulating systems. Pharmacological agents that selectively modify ER Ca2+ release or uptake have enabled studies that revealed many different physiological roles for ER Ca2+ signaling. Several inherited diseases are caused by mutations in ER Ca2+-regulating proteins, and perturbed ER Ca2+ homeostasis is implicated in a range of acquired disorders. Preclinical investigations suggest a therapeutic potential for use of agents that target ER Ca2+ handling systems of excitable cells in disorders ranging from cardiac arrhythmias and skeletal muscle myopathies to Alzheimer disease. PMID:21737534

  15. Hypoxia modifies nuclear calcium uptake pathways in the cerebral cortex of the guinea-pig fetus.

    PubMed

    Zanelli, S A; Spandou, E; Mishra, O P; Delivoria-Papadopoulos, M

    2005-01-01

    Nuclear Ca2+ signals are thought to play a critical role in the initiation and progression of programmed cell death. The present study tests the hypothesis that hypoxia alters nuclear Ca2+ transport pathways and leads to an increase in nuclear Ca(2+)-influx in cerebral cortical neuronal nuclei. To test this hypothesis the effect of tissue hypoxia on high affinity Ca(2+)-ATPase activity and the binding characteristics of inositol 1,4,5-triphosphate (IP3) and inositol 1,3,4,5-tetrakisphosphate (IP4) receptors were studied in neuronal nuclei from the cerebral cortex of guinea-pig fetuses. Results show increased high-affinity Ca(2+)-ATPase activity (nmol/mg protein/h) in the hypoxic group 969.7+/-79 as compared with 602.4+/-90.9 in the normoxic group, P<0.05. The number of IP3 receptors (Bmax, fmol/mg protein) increased from 61+/-21 in the normoxic group to 164+/-49 in the hypoxic group, P<0.05. K(d) values did not change following hypoxia. In contrast, IP4 receptor Bmax (fmol/mg protein) and K(d) (nM) values increased from 360+/-32 in the normoxic group to 626+/-136 in the hypoxic group (P<0.001) and, from 26+/-1 in the normoxic group to 61+/-9 in the hypoxic group (P<0.001), respectively. 45Ca(2+)-influx (pmol/mg protein) significantly increased from 6.3+/-1.9 in the normoxic group to 10.9+/-1.1 the hypoxic group (P<0.001). The data show that hypoxia modifies nuclear Ca2+ transport pathways and results in increased nuclear Ca(2+)-influx. We speculate that hypoxia increases nuclear Ca2+ uptake from the cytoplasm to the nucleoplasm, resulting in increased transcription of proapoptotic genes and subsequent activation of programmed cell death pathways.

  16. Synaptic depression in the CA1 region of freely behaving mice is highly dependent on afferent stimulation parameters

    PubMed Central

    Goh, Jinzhong J.; Manahan-Vaughan, Denise

    2012-01-01

    Persistent synaptic plasticity has been subjected to intense study in the decades since it was first described. Occurring in the form of long-term potentiation (LTP) and long-term depression (LTD), it shares many cellular and molecular properties with hippocampus-dependent forms of persistent memory. Recent reports of both LTP and LTD occurring endogenously under specific learning conditions provide further support that these forms of synaptic plasticity may comprise the cellular correlates of memory. Most studies of synaptic plasticity are performed using in vitro or in vivo preparations where patterned electrical stimulation of afferent fibers is implemented to induce changes in synaptic strength. This strategy has proven very effective in inducing LTP, even under in vivo conditions. LTD in vivo has proven more elusive: although LTD occurs endogenously under specific learning conditions in both rats and mice, its induction has not been successfully demonstrated with afferent electrical stimulation alone. In this study we screened a large spectrum of protocols that are known to induce LTD either in hippocampal slices or in the intact rat hippocampus, to clarify if LTD can be induced by sole afferent stimulation in the mouse CA1 region in vivo. Low frequency stimulation at 1, 2, 3, 5, 7, or 10 Hz given in the range of 100 through 1800 pulses produced, at best, short-term depression (STD) that lasted for up to 60 min. Varying the administration pattern of the stimuli (e.g., 900 pulses given twice at 5 min intervals), or changing the stimulation intensity did not improve the persistency of synaptic depression. LTD that lasts for at least 24 h occurs under learning conditions in mice. We conclude that a coincidence of factors, such as afferent activity together with neuromodulatory inputs, play a decisive role in the enablement of LTD under more naturalistic (e.g., learning) conditions. PMID:23355815

  17. BAG3 regulates contractility and Ca(2+) homeostasis in adult mouse ventricular myocytes.

    PubMed

    Feldman, Arthur M; Gordon, Jennifer; Wang, JuFang; Song, Jianliang; Zhang, Xue-Qian; Myers, Valerie D; Tilley, Douglas G; Gao, Erhe; Hoffman, Nicholas E; Tomar, Dhanendra; Madesh, Muniswamy; Rabinowitz, Joseph; Koch, Walter J; Su, Feifei; Khalili, Kamel; Cheung, Joseph Y

    2016-03-01

    Bcl2-associated athanogene 3 (BAG3) is a 575 amino acid anti-apoptotic protein that is constitutively expressed in the heart. BAG3 mutations, including mutations leading to loss of protein, are associated with familial cardiomyopathy. Furthermore, BAG3 levels have been found to be reduced in end-stage non-familial failing myocardium. In contrast to neonatal myocytes in which BAG3 is found in the cytoplasm and involved in protein quality control and apoptosis, in adult mouse left ventricular (LV) myocytes BAG3 co-localized with Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase and L-type Ca(2+) channels in the sarcolemma and t-tubules. BAG3 co-immunoprecipitated with β1-adrenergic receptor, L-type Ca(2+) channels and phospholemman. To simulate decreased BAG3 protein levels observed in human heart failure, we targeted BAG3 by shRNA (shBAG3) in adult LV myocytes. Reducing BAG3 by 55% resulted in reduced contraction and [Ca(2+)]i transient amplitudes in LV myocytes stimulated with isoproterenol. L-type Ca(2+) current (ICa) and sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) Ca(2+) content but not Na(+)/Ca(2+) exchange current (INaCa) or SR Ca(2+) uptake were reduced in isoproterenol-treated shBAG3 myocytes. Forskolin or dibutyryl cAMP restored ICa amplitude in shBAG3 myocytes to that observed in WT myocytes, consistent with BAG3 having effects upstream and at the level of the receptor. Resting membrane potential and action potential amplitude were unaffected but APD50 and APD90 were prolonged in shBAG3 myocytes. Protein levels of Ca(2+) entry molecules and other important excitation-contraction proteins were unchanged in myocytes with lower BAG3. Our findings that BAG3 is localized at the sarcolemma and t-tubules while modulating myocyte contraction and action potential duration through specific interaction with the β1-adrenergic receptor and L-type Ca(2+) channel provide novel insight into the role of BAG3 in cardiomyopathies and increased arrhythmia risks in heart failure. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights

  18. BAG3 regulates contractility and Ca2+ homeostasis in adult mouse ventricular myocytes

    PubMed Central

    Feldman, Arthur M.; Gordon, Jennifer; Wang, JuFang; Song, Jianliang; Zhang, Xue-Qian; Myers, Valerie D.; Tilley, Douglas G.; Gao, Erhe; Hoffman, Nicholas E.; Tomar, Dhanendra; Madesh, Muniswamy; Rabinowitz, Joseph; Koch, Walter J.; Su, Feifei; Khalili, Kamel; Cheung, Joseph Y.

    2016-01-01

    Bcl2-associated athanogene 3 (BAG3) is a 575 amino acid anti-apoptotic protein that is constitutively expressed in the heart. BAG3 mutations, including mutations leading to loss of protein, are associated with familial cardiomyopathy. Furthermore, BAG3 levels have been found to be reduced in end-stage non-familial failing myocardium. In contrast to neonatal myocytes in which BAG3 is found in the cytoplasm and involved in protein quality control and apoptosis, in adult mouse left ventricular (LV) myocytes BAG3 co-localized with Na+-K+-ATPase and L-type Ca2+ channels in the sarcolemma and t-tubules. BAG3 co-immunoprecipitated with β1-adrenergic receptor, L-type Ca2+ channels and phospholemman. To simulate decreased BAG3 protein levels observed in human heart failure, we targeted BAG3 by shRNA (shBAG3) in adult LV myocytes. Reducing BAG3 by 55% resulted in reduced contraction and [Ca2+]i transient amplitudes in LV myocytes stimulated with isoproterenol. L-type Ca2+ current (ICa) and sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) Ca2+ content but not Na+/Ca2+ exchange current (INaCa) or SR Ca2+ uptake were reduced in isoproterenol-treated shBAG3 myocytes. Forskolin or dibutyrl cAMP restored ICa amplitude in shBAG3 myocytes to that observed in WT myocytes, consistent with BAG3 having effects upstream and at the level of the receptor. Resting membrane potential and action potential amplitude were unaffected but APD50 and APD90 were prolonged in shBAG3 myocytes. Protein levels of Ca2+ entry molecules and other important excitation-contraction proteins were unchanged in myocytes with lower BAG3. Our findings that BAG3 is localized at the sarcolemma and t-tubules while modulating myocyte contraction and action potential duration through specific interaction with the β1-adrenergic receptor and L-type Ca2+ channel provide novel insight into the role of BAG3 in cardiomyopathies and increased arrhythmia risks in heart failure. PMID:26796036

  19. Melting of KCl and pressure calibration from in situ ionic conductivity measurements in a multi-anvil apparatus

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Li, J.; Dong, J.; Zhu, F.

    2017-12-01

    Melting plays an unparalleled role in planetary differentiation processes including the formation of metallic cores, basaltic crusts, and atmospheres. Knowledge of the melting behavior of Earth materials provides critical constraints for establishing the Earth's thermal structure, interpreting regional seismic anomalies, and understanding the nature of chemical heterogeneity. Measuring the melting points of compressed materials, however, have remained challenging mainly because melts are often mobile and reactive, and temperature and pressure gradients across millimeter or micron-sized samples introduce large uncertainties in melting detection. Here the melting curve of KCl was determined through in situ ionic conductivity measurements, using the multi-anvil apparatus at the University of Michigan. The method improves upon the symmetric configuration that was used recently for studying the melting behaviors of NaCl, Na2CO3, and CaCO3 (Li and Li 2015 American Mineralogist, Li et al. 2017 Earth and Planetary Science Letters). In the new configuration, the thermocouple and electrodes are placed together with the sample at the center of a cylindrical heater where the temperature is the highest along the axis, in order to minimize uncertainties in temperature measurements and increase the stability of the sample and electrodes. With 1% reproducibility in melting point determination at pressures up to 20 GPa, this method allows us to determine the sample pressure to oil load relationship at high temperatures during multiple heating and cooling cycles, on the basis of the well-known melting curves of ionic compounds. This approach enables more reliable pressure measurements than relying on a small number of fixed-point phase transitions. The new data on KCl bridge the gap between the piston-cylinder results up to 4 GPa (Pistorius 1965 J. of Physics and Chemistry of Solids) and several diamond-anvil cell data points above 20 GPa (Boehler et al. 1996 Physical Review). We

  20. Prolactin regulates transcription of the ion uptake Na+/Cl- cotransporter (ncc) gene in zebrafish gill

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Breves, Jason P.; Serizier, Sandy B.; Goffin, Vincent; McCormick, Stephen D.; Karlstrom, Rolf O.

    2013-01-01

    Prolactin (PRL) is a well-known regulator of ion and water transport within osmoregulatory tissues across vertebrate species, yet how PRL acts on some of its target tissues remains poorly understood. Using zebrafish as a model, we show that ionocytes in the gill directly respond to systemic PRL to regulate mechanisms of ion uptake. Ion-poor conditions led to increases in the expression of PRL receptor (prlra), Na+/Cl− cotransporter (ncc; slc12a10.2), Na+/H+ exchanger (nhe3b; slc9a3.2), and epithelial Ca2+ channel (ecac; trpv6) transcripts within the gill. Intraperitoneal injection of ovine PRL (oPRL) increased ncc and prlra transcripts, but did not affect nhe3b or ecac. Consistent with direct PRL action in the gill, addition of oPRL to cultured gill filaments stimulated ncc in a concentration-dependent manner, an effect blocked by a pure human PRL receptor antagonist (Δ1-9-G129R-hPRL). These results suggest that PRL signaling through PRL receptors in the gill regulates the expression of ncc, thereby linking this pituitary hormone with an effector of Cl− uptake in zebrafish for the first time.