Bay K 8644 Research Articles

Essential oil from Xylopia frutescens Aubl. reduces cytosolic calcium levels on guinea pig ileum: mechanism underlying its spasmolytic potential.

BackgroundXylopia frutescens Aubl. (embira, semente-de-embira or embira-vermelha), is used in folk medicine as antidiarrheal. The essential oil from its leaves (XF-EO) has been found to cause smooth muscle relaxation. Thus, the aim of this study was to investigate the spasmolytic action by which XF-EO acts on guinea pig ileum.MethodsThe components of the XF-EO were identified by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Segments of guinea pig ileum were suspended in organ bath containing modified Krebs solution at 37 °C, bubbled with carbogen mixture under a resting tension of 1 g. Isotonic contractions were registered using kymographs and isometric contractions using force transducer coupled to an amplifier and computer. Fluorescence measurements were obtained with a microplate reader using Fluo-4.ResultsForty-three constituents were identified in XF-EO, mostly mono- and sesquiterpenes. XF-EO has been found to cause relaxation on guinea pig ileum. The essential oil inhibited in a concentration-dependent manner both CCh- and histamine-induced phasic contractions, being more potent on histamine-induced contractions as well as antagonized histamine-induced cumulative contractions in a non-competitive antagonism profile. XF-EO relaxed in a concentration-dependent manner the ileum pre-contracted with KCl and histamine. Since the potency was smaller in organ pre-contracted with KCl, it was hypothesized that XF-OE would be acting as a K+ channel positive modulator. In the presence of CsCl (non-selective K+ channel blocker), the relaxant potency of XF-OE was not altered, indicating a non-participation of these channels. Moreover, XF-EO inhibited CaCl2-induced cumulative contractions in a depolarizing medium nominally without Ca2+ and relaxed the ileum pre-contracted with S-(-)-Bay K8644 in a concentration-dependent manner, thus, was confirmed the inhibition of Ca2+ influx through Cav1 by XF-EO. In cellular experiments, the viability of longitudinal layer myocytes from guinea pig ileum was not altered in the presence of XF-OE and the Fluo-4-associated fluorescence intensity in these intestinal myocytes stimulated by histamine was reduced by the essential oil, indicating a [Ca2+]c reduction.ConclusionSpasmolytic action mechanism of XF-EO on guinea pig ileum can involve histaminergic receptor antagonism and Ca2+ influx blockade, which results in [Ca2+]c reduction leading to smooth muscle relaxation.

Anticonvulsant mechanisms of piperine, a piperidine alkaloid

Piperine, a natural compound isolated from the fruits of Piper, is known to modulate several neurotransmitter systems such as serotonin, norepinephrine, and GABA, all of which have been linked to the development of convulsions. Fruits of Piper species have been suggested as means for managing seizure disorders. The present study was designed to elucidate the anticonvulsant effect of piperine and its mechanisms of action using in-silico, in-vivo and in-vitro techniques.PASS software was used to determine its possible activity and mechanisms. Furthermore the latency for development of convulsions and mortality rate was recorded in different experimental mouse models of epilepsy (pentylenetetrazole, maximal electroshock, NMDA, picrotoxin, bicuculline, BAYK-8644, strychnine-induced convulsions) after administration of various doses of piperine (5, 10 and 20 mg/kg, i.p.). Finally, the effect of piperine on Na+ and Ca2+ channels were evaluated using the whole cell patch clamp techniqueOur results revealed that piperine decreased mortality in the MES-induced seizure model. Moreover, piperine (10 mg/kg) delayed the onset of tonic clonic convulsions in the pentylenetetrazole test and reduced associated mortality. Furthermore, an anticonvulsant dose of piperine also delayed the onset of tonic clonic seizures in strychnine, picrotoxin and BAY K-8644. Complete protection against mortality was observed in BAYK-8644 induced convulsions. Finally, whole cell patch clamp analysis suggested an inhibitory effect of piperine on Na+ channels. Together, our data suggest Na+ channel antagonist activity as a contributor to the complex anticonvulsant mechanisms of piperine.

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

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 (0–56μg/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 (0–48μg/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 (1μM), phenylephrine (0.1μM) or KCl solution (40mM). 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).

Phenytoin inhibits contractions of rat gastrointestinal and portal vein smooth muscle by inhibiting calcium entry.

Phenytoin is widely used as a second-line treatment for status epilepticus. Besides its well-known cardiac pro-arrhythmogenicity, side effects on other organ systems have received less attention. This study investigates the effects of phenytoin on gastrointestinal tissue function using an invitro model of smooth muscle preparations from rats by combining registrations of pharmacological effects on mechanical contractions, electric field potentials, and dynamic intravital fluorescence microscopy. When added to the bathing solution at a concentration of 30μM, phenytoin reduced the frequency of spontaneous activity significantly in antrum and portal vein preparations to 72.2±36.5% (p=0.022) and 80.7±24.4% (p=0.037) of control values, respectively. At a concentration of 100μM, theheight of spontaneous contractions declined to 9.8±19.6% (p=0.005) (antrum), 15.7±28.2% (p=0.004) (portal vein), and 31.8±31.3% (p= 0.005) (colon) in comparison to the control conditions before the application of phenytoin. Depolarization triggered increases in calcium dependent fluorescence signals were reduced by 52.8±39.1% (p=0.012) The inhibition of spontaneous activity caused by phenytoin was reduced in the presence of the L-type calcium channel agonist BAY K8644(-). Phenytoin exerts strong inhibitory effects on the spontaneous and stimulated contractile activity of smooth muscles from both the upper and lower gastrointestinal tract. The mechanism underlying thiseffect is not related to the sodium channel blocking activity of phenytoin, but is rather causedby an inhibition of calcium entry through voltage dependent L-type calcium channels. The results of this study should raise vigilance to gastrointestinal complications in patients treated with phenytoin.

Abstract 34: STIM1 Increases Calcium Stores in the Sarcoplasmic Reticulum of Adult Feline Ventricular Myocytes

Background: STIM1 is a Sarcoplasmic Reticulum (SR) membrane resident protein implicated in sensing and maintaining SR Ca2+ levels. The role of STIM1 in the regulation of SR Ca2+ stores in the normal and diseased heart is not well described. Previous reports confirm that STIM1 is present at low levels in the healthy adult heart, but expression levels increase after cardiac injury. Objective: To determine if increased STIM1 expression after cardiac injury may be involved in the disturbed Ca2+ cycling present within diseased cardiomyocytes. Results: We used adenovirus to express either STIM1 or red fluorescent protein (RFP) in freshly isolated adult feline ventricular myocytes (AFMs). After 48 hours in culture, STIM1 induced cell death in 60% of myocytes versus only 5% in RFP controls. Addition of nifedipine rescued the cell death caused by STIM1, but block of transient receptor potential canonical (TRPC) channels was unable to improve viability. AFMs expressing STIM1 exhibited increased fractional shortening and Ca2+ transient amplitude, which was associated with increased SR load. Interestingly, high SR load levels caused by STIM1 were not reduced by nifedipine addition. We also found that baseline L-type channel current amplitude was significantly reduced by 20%, but no difference in current amplitude was found after Bay K8644 addition. Conclusions: In this study, we found that STIM1 caused Ca2+ overload leading to cell death. This process was L-type channel dependent, but TRPC channels were not involved. STIM1 also caused increased SR load at rest, which was not altered by nifedipine revealing that STIM1 mediated Ca2+ influx does not require L-type channel activity but Ca2+ influx through L-type channels is essential for STIM1 induced cellular death. Furthermore, STIM1 reduced L-type current activity but did not alter channel availability. These data show that after cardiac injury, STIM1 is likely to play a role in regulating cell survival as well as excitation-contraction coupling.

Differential zinc permeation and blockade of L-type Ca2 + channel isoforms Cav1.2 and Cav1.3

Certain voltage-activated Ca2+ channels have been reported to act as potential zinc entry routes. However, it remains to be determined whether zinc can permeate individual Ca2+ channel isoforms. We expressed recombinant Ca2+ channel isoforms in Xenopus oocytes and attempted to record zinc currents from them using a two-electrode voltage clamp method. We found that, in an extracellular zinc solution, inward currents arising from zinc permeation could be recorded from Xenopus oocytes expressing L-type Cav1.2 or Cav1.3 isoforms, but not from oocytes expressing Cav2.2, Cav2.3, Cav3.1, or Cav3.2. Zinc currents through Cav1.2 and Cav1.3 were blocked by nimodipine, but enhanced by (±)Bay K8644, supporting the finding that zinc can permeate both L-type Cav1.2 and Cav1.3 channel isoforms. We also examined the blocking effects of low concentrations of zinc on Ca2+ currents through the L-type channel isoforms. Low micro-molar zinc potently blocked Ca2+ currents through Cav1.2 and Cav1.3 with different sensitivities (IC50 for Cav1.2 and Cav1.3=18.4 and 34.1μM) and de-accelerated the activation and inactivation kinetics in a concentration-dependent manner. Notably, mild acidifications of the external zinc solution increased zinc currents through Cav1.2 and Cav1.3, with the increment level for Cav1.3 being greater than that for Cav1.2. In overall, we provide evidence that Cav1.2 and Cav1.3 isoforms are capable of potentially functioning as zinc permeation routes, through which zinc entry can be differentially augmented by mild acidifications.

The calcium channel agonist BAY K8644 enhances the responsiveness of human airway muscle to KCl and histamine but not to carbachol.

The role of calcium channel antagonists in asthma remains controversial. A new compound BAY K8644 is an agonist at the calcium voltage-dependent channel (VDC). Therefore, we studied the effect of BAY K8644 on contraction to KCl, histamine, and carbachol in human bronchus in vitro to assess the role of the VDC in this tissue. Cumulative concentration response curves were obtained to the agonists in bronchial spiral strips in the absence and in the presence of BAY K8644. Contractile responses to histamine were significantly (p less than 0.05) enhanced by BAY K8644 (10(-6) M) at concentrations between 10(-7) M and 3 X 10(-6) M and there was a significant decrease in the histamine EC50 (the concentration producing half the maximal response). Responses to low concentrations of KCl (10(-4) M to 3 X 10(-3) M) were also potentiated. BAY K8644 did not affect carbachol-induced contractions. We conclude that calcium influx through VDC occurs in response to KCl and histamine but not to carbachol. Such findings could explain the variability in efficacy of calcium channel antagonists in inhibiting various forms of bronchospasm.

Basal activity of voltage-gated Ca2+ channels controls the IP3-mediated contraction by α1-adrenoceptor stimulation of mouse aorta segments

α1-Adrenoceptor stimulation of mouse aorta causes intracellular Ca2+ release from sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ stores via stimulation of inositoltriphosphate (IP3) receptors. It is hypothesized that this Ca2+ release from the contractile and IP3-sensitive Ca2+ store is under the continuous dynamic control of time-independent basal Ca2+ influx via L-type voltage-gated Ca2+ channels (LCC) residing in their window voltage range. Mouse aortic segments were α1-adrenoceptor stimulated with phenylephrine in the absence of external Ca2+ (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 (15mM 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 NΩ-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 Ca2+ 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.

Urotensin-II Receptor Stimulation of Cardiac L-type Ca2+ Channels Requires the βγ Subunits of Gi/o-protein and Phosphatidylinositol 3-Kinase-dependent Protein Kinase C β1 Isoform

Recent studies have demonstrated that urotensin-II (U-II) plays important roles in cardiovascular actions including cardiac positive inotropic effects and increasing cardiac output. However, the mechanisms underlying these effects of U-II in cardiomyocytes still remain unknown. We show by electrophysiological studies that U-II dose-dependently potentiates L-type Ca(2+) currents (ICa,L) in adult rat ventricular myocytes. This effect was U-II receptor (U-IIR)-dependent and was associated with a depolarizing shift in the voltage dependence of inactivation. Intracellular application of guanosine-5'-O-(2-thiodiphosphate) and pertussis toxin pretreatment both abolished the stimulatory effects of U-II. Dialysis of cells with the QEHA peptide, but not scrambled peptide SKEE, blocked the U-II-induced response. The phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) inhibitor wortmannin as well as the class I PI3K antagonist CH132799 blocked the U-II-induced ICa,L response. Protein kinase C antagonists calphostin C and chelerythrine chloride as well as dialysis of cells with 1,2bis(2aminophenoxy)ethaneN,N,N',N'-tetraacetic acid abolished the U-II-induced responses, whereas PKCα inhibition or PKA blockade had no effect. Exposure of ventricular myocytes to U-II markedly increased membrane PKCβ1 expression, whereas inhibition of PKCβ1 pharmacologically or by shRNA targeting abolished the U-II-induced ICa,L response. Functionally, we observed a significant increase in the amplitude of sarcomere shortening induced by U-II; blockade of U-IIR as well as PKCβ inhibition abolished this effect, whereas Bay K8644 mimicked the U-II response. Taken together, our results indicate that U-II potentiates ICa,L through the βγ subunits of Gi/o-protein and downstream activation of the class I PI3K-dependent PKCβ1 isoform. This occurred via the activation of U-IIR and contributes to the positive inotropic effect on cardiomyocytes.

Cytosolic calcium changes affect the incidence of early afterdepolarizations in canine ventricular myocytes.

This study was designed to investigate the influence of cytosolic Ca(2+) levels ([Ca(2+)]i) on action potential duration (APD) and on the incidence of early afterdepolarizations (EADs) in canine ventricular cardiomyocytes. Action potentials (AP) of isolated cells were recorded using conventional sharp microelectrodes, and the concomitant [Ca(2+)]i was monitored with the fluorescent dye Fura-2. EADs were evoked at a 0.2 Hz pacing rate by inhibiting the rapid delayed rectifier K(+) current with dofetilide, by activating the late sodium current with veratridine, or by activating the L-type calcium current with BAY K8644. These interventions progressively prolonged the AP and resulted in initiation of EADs. Reducing [Ca(2+)]i by application of the cell-permeant Ca(2+) chelator BAPTA-AM lengthened the AP at 1.0 Hz if it was applied alone, in the presence of veratridine, or in the presence of BAY K8644. However, BAPTA-AM shortened the AP if the cells were pretreated with dofetilide. The incidence of the evoked EADs was strongly reduced by BAPTA-AM in dofetilide, moderately reduced in veratridine, whereas EAD incidence was increased by BAPTA-AM in the presence of BAY K8644. Based on these experimental data, changes in [Ca(2+)]i have marked effects on APD as well as on the incidence of EADs; however, the underlying mechanisms may be different, depending on the mechanism of EAD generation. As a consequence, reduction of [Ca(2+)]i may eliminate EADs under some, but not all, experimental conditions.

Antispasmodic effects of myrrh due to calcium antagonistic effects in inflamed rat small intestinal preparations.

Myrrh is the oleo-gum resin of mainly Commiphora molmol and as a powdered substance, one compound in the traditional medicinal product Myrrhinil-Intest®, which has been used for the treatment of unspecific, inflammatory intestinal disorders. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the antispasmodic effect of myrrh under healthy and inflamed conditions, and to evaluate a calcium-antagonistic effect as a possible mode of action. Therefore, an ethanolic myrrh extract was tested for its effects on muscle tone and acetylcholine-induced contractions in untreated and inflamed rat ileum/jejunum preparations. Inflammation was experimentally induced by 2,4,6-trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (10 mM, 30 min). Additionally, the effect of the calcium channel agonist Bay K8644 in the presence of varying myrrh extract concentrations was examined. Myrrh extract (0.99 mg/mL) suppressed the acetylcholine-induced contraction down to 25.8 % in untreated and 15.2 % in inflamed preparations. Myrrh extract (0.15; 0.25 and 0.35 mg/mL) induced a concentration-dependent rightward shift of the Bay K8644 concentration-response curve in untreated and inflamed preparations with a significant EC50 shift. Schild analysis resulted in a pA2 value of 0.93 for untreated preparations. Increasing myrrh extract concentrations induced a concentration-dependent decrease of the agonistic maximum effect in untreated and inflamed preparations down to 15.8 % and 25.8 %, respectively, for the highest concentration leading to a pD2 value of 0.58. Myrrh extract reduced intestinal muscle tone and acetylcholine-induced contraction of untreated and inflamed ileum/jejunum preparations based on dual calcium antagonism characterized by a right shift of the agonistic dose-response curve and a depression of the maximum effect. The resulting reduction of intestinal motility and spasmolytic effects provide a rationale for the symptom treatment of intestinal disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome.

Comparing The Effects of Small Molecules BIX-01294, Bay K8644, RG-108 and Valproic Acid, and Their Different Combinations on Induction of Pluripotency Marker-Genes by Oct4 in The Mouse Brain.

Every cell type is characterized by a specific transcriptional profile together with a unique epigenetic landscape. Reprogramming factors such as Oct4, Klf4, Sox2 and c-Myc enable somatic cells to change their transcriptional profile and convert them to pluripotent cells. Small molecules such as BIX-01294, Bay K8644, RG-108 and valproic acid (VPA) are reported as effective molecules for enhancing induction of pluripotency in vitro, however, their effects during in vivo reprogramming are addressed in this experimental study. In this experimental study, Oct4 expressing lentiviral particles and small molecules BIX-01294, Bay K8644 and RG-108 were injected into the right ventricle of mice brain and VPA was systematically administered as oral gavages. Animals treated with different combinations of small molecules for 7 or 14 days in concomitant with Oct4 exogenous expression were compared for expression of pluripotency markers. Total RNA was isolated from the rims of the injected ventricle and quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was performed to evaluate the expression of endogenous Oct4, Nanog, c-Myc, klf4 and Sox2 as pluripotency markers, and Pax6 and Sox1 as neural stem cell (NSC) markers. Results showed that Oct4 exogenous expression for 7 days induced pluripoten- cy slightly as it was detected by significant enhancement in expression of Nanog (p<0.05). Combinatorial administration of Oct4 expressing vector and BIX-01294, Bay K8644 and RG-108 did not affect the expression of pluripotency and NSC markers, but VPA treatment along with Oct4 exogenous expression induced Nanog, Klf4 and c-Myc (p<0.001). VPA treatment before the induction of exogenous Oct4 was more effective and significantly increased the expression of endogenous Oct4, Nanog, Klf4, c-Myc (p<0.01), Pax6 and Sox1 (p<0.001). These results suggest VPA as the best enhancer of pluripotency among the chemicals tested, especially when applied prior to pluripotency induction by Oct4.

Defective autophagy in vascular smooth muscle cells alters contractility and Ca²⁺ homeostasis in mice.

Autophagy is an evolutionary preserved process that prevents the accumulation of unwanted cytosolic material through the formation of autophagosomes. Although autophagy has been extensively studied to understand its function in normal physiology, the role of vascular smooth muscle (SM) cell (VSMC) autophagy in Ca(2+) mobilization and contraction remains poorly understood. Recent evidence shows that autophagy is involved in controlling contractile function and Ca(2+) homeostasis in certain cell types. Therefore, autophagy might also regulate contractile capacity and Ca(2+)-mobilizing pathways in VSMCs. Contractility (organ chambers) and Ca(2+) homeostasis (myograph) were investigated in aortic segments of 3.5-mo-old mice containing a SM cell-specific deletion of autophagy-related 7 (Atg7; Atg7(fl/fl) SM22α-Cre(+) mice) and in segments of corresponding control mice (Atg7(+/+) SM22α-Cre(+)). Our results indicate that voltage-gated Ca(2+) channels (VGCCs) of Atg7(fl/fl) SM22α-Cre(+) VSMCs were more sensitive to depolarization, independent of changes in resting membrane potential. Contractions elicited with K(+) (50 mM) or the VGCC agonist BAY K8644 (100 nM) were significantly higher due to increased VGCC expression and activity. Interestingly, the sarcoplasmic reticulum of Atg7(fl/fl) SM22α-Cre(+) VSMCs was enlarged, which, combined with increased sarco(endo)plasmic reticulum Ca(2+)-ATPase 2 expression and higher store-operated Ca(2+) entry, promoted inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate-mediated contractions of Atg7(fl/fl) SM22α-Cre(+) segments and maximized the Ca(2+) storing capacity of the sarcoplasmic reticulum. Moreover, decreased plasma membrane Ca(2+)-ATPase expression in Atg7(fl/fl) SM22α-Cre(+) VSMCs hampered Ca(2+) extrusion to the extracellular environment. Overall, our study indicates that defective autophagy in VSMCs leads to an imbalance between Ca(2+) release/influx and Ca(2+) reuptake/extrusion, resulting in higher basal Ca(2+) concentrations and significant effects on vascular reactivity.

1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 causes ADAM10-dependent ectodomain shedding of tumor necrosis factor receptor 1 in vascular smooth muscle cells.

1,25-Dihydroxyvitamin D3 (1,25D3) has a potential antiatherosclerotic effect through anti-inflammatory actions. We investigated how 1,25D3 regulates tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α)-induced lectin-like oxidized low-density lipoprotein receptor-1 (LOX-1) expression in cultured human aortic smooth muscle cells. TNF-α activated Rac1/reactive oxygen species/spleen tyrosine kinase and transcriptional factors, activator protein-1, and nuclear factor κB, which led to LOX-1 expression. 1,25D3 inhibited TNF-α-induced LOX-1 expression by inhibiting Rac1 activation and thereby its downstream signals. 1,25D3 rapidly induced extracellular Ca(2+) influx. Verapamil, an inhibitor of L-type calcium channels, inhibited 1,25D3-induced Ca(2+) influx and counteracted the inhibitory effects of 1,25D3 on Rac1 activation, whereas Bay K8644 [1,4-dihydro-2,6-dimethyl-5-nitro-4-[2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]-3-pyridinecarboxylic acid, methyl ester], an L-type calcium channel agonist, attenuated TNF-α-induced Rac1 activation, as 1,25D3 did. 1,25D3 induced the ectodomain shedding of TNF receptor 1 (TNFR1), which was abolished by verapamil and in Ca(2+)-free media. Like 1,25D3, Bay K8644 induced the ectodomain shedding of TNFR1. Both 1,25D3 and Bay K8644 caused the translocation of a disintegrin and metalloprotease (ADAM) 10 from the cytoplasm to the plasma membrane, which was dependent on extracellular Ca(2+) influx. In contrast, depletion of ADAM10 by transfection of ADAM10-small interfering RNA prevented 1,25D3- or Bay K8644-induced ectodomain shedding of TNFR1 and abolished the suppressive effect of 1,25D3 on TNF-α-induced Rac1 activation. Taken together, these findings suggest that 1,25D3 induces extracellular Ca(2+) influx via L-type calcium channel, triggering ADAM10-mediated ectodomain shedding of TNFR1, and it thereby decreases responsiveness to TNF-α. By shedding TNFR1 from the cell surface, 1,25D3 may regulate inflammation and atherogenesis, whereas this effect could be attenuated by calcium channel blockers.

The L-type voltage-gated calcium channel modulates microglial pro-inflammatory activity

Under pathological conditions, microglia, the resident CNS immune cells, become reactive and release pro-inflammatory cytokines and neurotoxic factors. We investigated whether this phenotypic switch includes changes in the expression of the L-type voltage-gated calcium channel (VGCC) in a rat model of N-methyl-D-aspartate-induced hippocampal neurodegeneration. Double immunohistochemistry and confocal microscopy evidenced that activated microglia express the L-type VGCC. We then analyzed whether BV2 microglia express functional L-type VGCC, and investigated the latter's role in microglial cytokine release and phagocytic capacity. Activated BV2 microglia express the CaV1.2 and CaV1.3 subunits of the L-type VGCC determined by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction, Western blot and immunocytochemistry. Depolarization with KCl induced a Ca2+ entry facilitated by Bay k8644 and partially blocked with nifedipine, which also reduced TNF-α and NO release by 40%. However, no nifedipine effect on BV2 microglia viability or phagocytic capacity was observed. Our results suggest that in CNS inflammatory processes, the L-type VGCC plays a specific role in the control of microglial secretory activity.

Comparison of the post-mortem interval on the effect of vascular responses to the activation of ionotropic and metabotropic receptors.

The contractibility of blood vessels depends on their normal structure and the availability of calcium ions; it changes under the influence of numerous contracting and relaxing factors, which control the activities of various pathways of intracellular and intercellular signaling. The main aim of the study was to investigate, by means of perfusion pressure in rat tail arteries, the role of Ca2+ in vascular response to α-1 adrenoceptor activation by phenylephrine (PHE) and Bay K8644 agonist of the L-type calcium channel and caffeine before and after a post-mortem interval (PMI) of 2, 4, 6 and 8 h. A phasic increase of perfusion pressure in rat tail arteries, as induced by PHE or caffeine, in Ca2+-free solutions was used as an indicator of intracellular Ca2+ release through the inositol 1,4,5-triphosphate and ryanodine receptor pathways, respectively. In Ca2+-free-ethylene glycol tetraacetic acid (EGTA)-poly(sodium styrenesulfonate) (PSS) and in Ca2+-EGTA-PSS, the PHE induced elevation of perfusion pressure significantly decreased. Vascular responses to caffeine (20 mmol/1) in Ca2+-free-EGTA-PSS, with an increase of PMI from 2-8 h, did not change significantly. A similar effect was observed with vascular responses to KCl 40 mmol/1 in Ca2+-EGTA-PSS. To confirm whether the inhibitory effect of 2, 4, 6 and 8 h PMI was mediated through the formation of NO, nitro-L-arginine (L-NNA), a potent NO synthase inhibitor, was used. Exposure to L-NNA (10-5 M) blocked the inhibition induced by an increase of PMI. The blocked effects of L-NNA were reversed by L-arginine (10-4 M). In conclusion, these patterns of change in artery responses provide insight into the post-mortem change in the receptor-mediated signaling components in epithelial and smooth muscle cells, and support the further study of post-mortem vascular responses triggered by G protein-coupled receptors (metabotropic) and channel-linked receptors (ionotropic) as potential markers for estimating short and long-term PMIs, respectively.

The effect of blue light on human retinal pigment epithelium cells α1D subunit protein expression and vascular endothelial growth factor and basic fibroblast growth factor secretion in vitro

To investigate the effect of blue light on human retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) α1D subunit protein expression and its relationship with vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) secretion in vitro. The fourth generation cultured human RPE cells in vitro were randomly divided into 4 groups, group A (control), group B (exposure to blue light), group C (exposure to blue light+nifedipine), group D [exposure to blue light+(-)Bay K8644]. Cells were exposed to blue light (2 000 ± 500) lx for 6 hours, and cells culture completed 24 hours later. VEGF and bFGF concentration were assayed by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Real-time polymerase chain reaction was used to analysis L-type calcium channel α1D subunit mRNA expression. Western blot was used to examine the protein expression of L-type calcium channel α1D subunit. Analysis of variance was used to compare the difference of α1D subunit mRNA and protein expression, VEGF and bFGF concentration between groups. Correlation analysis was used to show the relationship between α1D subunit protein expression and concentration of VEGF and bFGF. (1) There is significant statistically difference in the population mean of VEGF and bFGF concentration in four groups (F = 99.441, 21.310, P = 0.000,0.000) . VEGF and bFGF concentration in group B (3 281.51 ± 251.73, 1 346.81 ± 62.27) and group D (3 808.01 ± 94.01, 1 485.82 ± 108.97) was higher than it was in group A (2 401.09 ± 228.07, 1 232.42 ± 65.41) , which was statistically different (P = 0.000, 0.000, 0.019, 0.000). And it was higher in group D (3 808.01 ± 94.01, 1 485.82 ± 108.97) compared with group B (3 281.51 ± 251.73, 1 346.81 ± 62.27) (P = 0.000, 0.006). While, it was lower in group C (1 927.28 ± 143.11, 1 149.39 ± 62.99) than it was in group B (3 281.51 ± 251.73, 1 346.81 ± 62.27) (P = 0.000, 0.000) . (2) The mean of mRNA expression of α1D subunit between four groups was statistically significant (F = 50.320, P = 0.000) . It was higher in group B (210 ± 23) , group D (478 ± 80) and group C (232 ± 14) than group A (100 ± 20). It was statistically significant different (P = 0.023, 0.006, 0.010). And it was higher in group D (478 ± 80) than group B (210 ± 23) and C (232 ± 14) (P = 0.032, 0.039). (3) There was statistically significant difference in the expression of L-type calcium channel α1D subunit protein in four groups (F = 1 940.363, P = 0.000) . It was significantly higher (P = 0.000,0.000) in group B (0.974 2 ± 0.014 7) and group D (0.654 9 ± 0.005 0) than group A (0.503 2 ± 0.007 5). And it was higher in group D (0.654 9 ± 0.005 0) than it was in group C (0.413 9 ± 0.008 8) (P = 0.000). (4) There was positive correlation between the L-type calcium channel α1D subunit protein expression and VEGF concentration secreted by retinal pigment epithelium cells (r = 0.674, F = 8.333, P = 0.016), but there was no correlation with bFGF concentration (r = 0.537, F = 4.061, P = 0.072). L-type calcium channel α1D subunit may be involved in blue light induced damage on human retinal pigment epithelial cells. Blue light exposure can induce the mRNA and protein expression of α1D subunit, VEGF and bFGF concentration in retinal pigment epithelium cells Increased. And there was a positive correlation between α1D subunit protein expression and the VEGF concentration.

Modified cytoplasmic Ca2+ sequestration contributes to spinal cord injury-induced augmentation of nerve-evoked contractions in the rat tail artery.

In rat tail artery (RTA), spinal cord injury (SCI) increases nerve-evoked contractions and the contribution of L-type Ca2+ channels to these responses. In RTAs from unoperated rats, these channels play a minor role in contractions and Bay K8644 (L-type channel agonist) mimics the effects of SCI. Here we investigated the mechanisms underlying the facilitatory actions of SCI and Bay K8644 on nerve-evoked contractions of RTAs and the hypothesis that Ca2+ entering via L-type Ca2+ channels is rapidly sequestered by the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) limiting its role in contraction. In situ electrochemical detection of noradrenaline was used to assess if Bay K8644 increased noradrenaline release. Perforated patch recordings were used to assess if SCI changed the Ca2+ current recorded in RTA myocytes. Wire myography was used to assess if SCI modified the effects of Bay K8644 and of interrupting SR Ca2+ uptake on nerve-evoked contractions. Bay K8644 did not change noradrenaline-induced oxidation currents. Neither the size nor gating of Ca2+ currents differed between myocytes from sham-operated (control) and SCI rats. Bay K8644 increased nerve-evoked contractions in RTAs from both control and SCI rats, but the magnitude of this effect was reduced by SCI. By contrast, depleting SR Ca2+ stores with ryanodine or cyclopiazonic acid selectively increased nerve-evoked contractions in control RTAs. Cyclopiazonic acid also selectively increased the blockade of these responses by nifedipine (L-type channel blocker) in control RTAs, whereas ryanodine increased the blockade produced by nifedipine in both groups of RTAs. These findings suggest that Ca2+ entering via L-type channels is normally rapidly sequestered limiting its access to the contractile mechanism. Furthermore, the findings suggest SCI reduces the role of this mechanism.

Vanillin and vanillin analogs relax porcine coronary and basilar arteries by inhibiting L-type Ca2+ channels.

Vanillin (VA) and vanillyl alcohol (VAA), components of natural vanilla, and ethyl vanillin (EtVA; synthetic analog) are used as flavoring agents and/or as additives by the food, cosmetic, or pharmaceutic industries. VA, VAA, and EtVA possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, but their vascular effects have not been determined. Therefore, we compared in isolated porcine coronary and basilar arteries the changes in isometric tension caused by VA, VAA, and EtVA. VA and its analogs caused concentration-dependent relaxations of both preparations during contractions from U46619 (9,11-dideoxy-11α,9α-epoxymethanoprostaglandin F2α, a thromboxane A2 receptor agonist), and of coronary arteries contracted with KCl or endothelin-1. The order of potency was VAA < VA < EtVA. The relaxations were not inhibited by endothelium removal, by inhibitors of NO synthases (N(ω)-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester hydrochloride), cyclooxygenases (indomethacin), soluble guanylyl cyclase (1H-[1,2,4]oxadiazolo[4,3-a]quinoxalin-1-one [ODQ]), KCa (1-[(2-chlorophenyl)diphenylmethyl]-1H-pyrazole [TRAM-34], 6,12,19,20,25,26-hexahydro-5,27:13,18:21,24-trietheno-11,7-metheno-7H-dibenzo[b,n][1,5,12,16]tetraazacyclotricosine-5,13-diium ditrifluoroacetate hydrate [UCL-1684], or iberiotoxin), by KATP (glibenclamide), by Kir (BaCl2), by transient receptor potential receptor vanilloid 3 (TRPV3) channels (ruthenium red), or by antioxidants (catalase, apocynin, tempol, N-acetylcysteine, tiron). VA and its analogs inhibited contractions induced by Ca(2+) reintroduction in coronary arteries, and by an opener of L-type Ca(2+)-channels (methyl 2,6-dimethyl-5-nitro-4-[2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]-1,4-dihydropyridine-3-carboxylate [Bay K8644]) in coronary and basilar arteries. They inhibited contractions of coronary rings induced by the protein kinase C activator phorbol 12,13-dibutyrate to the same extent as the removal of extracellular Ca(2+) or incubation with nifedipine. Thus, in porcine arteries, relaxation from VA (and its analogs) is due to inhibition of L-type Ca(2+) channels. Hence, these compounds could be used to relieve coronary or cerebral vasospasms due to exaggerated Ca(2+) influx, but therapeutic efficacy would require exposures that far exceed the current levels obtained by the use of vanillin additives.

Contribution of ion currents to beat-to-beat variability of action potential duration in canine ventricular myocytes.

Although beat-to-beat variability (short-term variability, SV) of action potential duration (APD) is considered as a predictor of imminent cardiac arrhythmias, the underlying mechanisms are still not clear. In the present study, therefore, we aimed to determine the role of the major cardiac ion currents, APD, stimulation frequency, and changes in the intracellular Ca(2+) concentration ([Ca(2+)]i) on the magnitude of SV. Action potentials were recorded from isolated canine ventricular cardiomyocytes using conventional microelectrode techniques. SV was an exponential function of APD, when APD was modified by current injections. Drug effects were characterized as relative SV changes by comparing the drug-induced changes in SV to those in APD according to the exponential function obtained with current pulses. Relative SV was increased by dofetilide, HMR 1556, nisoldipine, and veratridine, while it was reduced by BAY K8644, tetrodotoxin, lidocaine, and isoproterenol. Relative SV was also increased by increasing the stimulation frequency and [Ca(2+)]i. In summary, relative SV is decreased by ion currents involved in the negative feedback regulation of APD (I Ca, I Ks, and I Kr), while it is increased by I Na and I to. We conclude that drug-induced effects on SV should be evaluated in relation with the concomitant changes in APD. Since relative SV was decreased by ion currents playing critical role in the negative feedback regulation of APD, blockade of these currents, or the beta-adrenergic pathway, may carry also some additional proarrhythmic risk in addition to their well-known antiarrhythmic action.