Cdk5 phosphorylates CaV1.3 channels and regulates GABAA-mediated miniature inhibitory post-synaptic currents in striato-nigral terminals

Abstract

Neurotransmission is one of the most important processes in neuronal communication and depends largely on Ca2+ entering synaptic terminals through voltage-gated Ca2+ (CaV) channels. Although the contribution of L-type CaV channels in neurotransmission has not been unambiguously established, increasing evidence suggests a role for these proteins in noradrenaline, dopamine, and GABA release. Here we report the regulation of L-type channels by Cdk5, and its possible effect on GABA release in the substantia nigra pars reticulata (SNpr). Using patch-clamp electrophysiology, we show that Cdk5 inhibition by Olomoucine significantly increases current density through CaV1.3 (L-type) channels heterologously expressed in HEK293 cells. Likewise, in vitro phosphorylation showed that Cdk5 phosphorylates residue S1947 in the C-terminal region of the pore-forming subunit of CaV1.3 channels. Consistent with this, the mutation of serine into alanine (S1947A) prevented the regulation of Cdk5 on CaV1.3 channel activity. Our data also revealed that the inhibition of Cdk5 increased the frequency of high K+-evoked miniature inhibitory postsynaptic currents in rat SNpr neurons, acting on L-type channels. These results unveil a novel regulatory mechanism of GABA release in the SNpr that involves a direct action of Cdk5 on L-type channels.