ryanodine and Disease-Models--Animal

The core myopathies are a group of congenital myopathies with variable clinical expression - ranging from early-onset skeletal-muscle weakness to later-onset disease of variable severity - that are identified by characteristic 'core-like' lesions in myofibers and the presence of hypothonia and slowly or rather non-progressive muscle weakness. The genetic causes are diverse; central core disease is most often caused by mutations in ryanodine receptor 1 (

Topics: Alkaloids; Animals; Connectin; Disease Models, Animal; Disease Progression; Gene Expression Regulation; Genetic Association Studies; Genetic Variation; HEK293 Cells; Humans; Male; Mice; Mice, Transgenic; Muscle Proteins; Muscle Weakness; Muscle, Skeletal; Myopathies, Structural, Congenital; Myopathy, Central Core; Ophthalmoplegia; Protein Kinases; Ryanodine; Ryanodine Receptor Calcium Release Channel; Selenoproteins

Malignant hyperthermia (MH) is a pharmacogenetic, life-threatening hypermetabolic syndrome in genetically predisposed individuals exposed to certain anesthetic agents. Discovered by Denborough and Lovell [1] in 1960, MH was associated with high mortality and morbidity as the cause was unknown and an effective treatment was unavailable. There is no classic clinical presentation of the syndrome, and the onset and signs of MH are dependent upon known and unknown environmental and genetic factors. Initial theories involved central temperature regulation defects or uncoupling of oxidative phosphorylation in mitochondria [2], but later investigations targeted skeletal muscle as the affected organ. Subsequently freshly biopsied skeletal muscle was used for in vitro pharmacologic contracture testing to discriminate between normal and MH-affected muscle and remains the "gold standard" for MH diagnosis. Spontaneous, genetic models for MH were discovered in pigs and dogs and substantial knowledge about MH was gained from these valuable resources. The abnormal contracture response of MH skeletal muscle evoked a focus on calcium regulation, and abnormalities in calcium release (as opposed to calcium sequestration) mechanisms were discovered. About this same time the major calcium release channel in the skeletal muscle sarcoplasmic reticulum membrane was purified and named the ryanodine receptor [3]. Although the ryanodine receptor represents one of the largest functional proteins, the enormous gene encoding the 5021 amino acids comprising the ryanodine receptor subunit was eventually cloned [4,5]. Patient and dedicated work on the ryanodine receptor gene has found linkage to MH in the pig [6], dog [7], and among several different mutations and MH in unrelated human families [8,9]. Expression of these mutations in HEK cells has resulted in abnormal calcium release [10,11], supporting but not proving a causal basis for MH. In this review each of the areas mentioned above is discussed in detail revealing a wonderful success story that changed the anesthesiologist's "worst nightmare" from a syndrome with high mortality and morbidity to a reasonably well managed disease today. This success story includes unraveling the molecular basis for the disease and brings its pathoetiologic and diagnostic aspects toward molecular genetic resolution.

Topics: Animals; Caffeine; Calcium; Disease Models, Animal; Dogs; Female; Genotype; Humans; Hydrogen-Ion Concentration; Male; Malignant Hyperthermia; Models, Biological; Muscle, Skeletal; Mutation; Pedigree; Phenotype; Ryanodine; Ryanodine Receptor Calcium Release Channel; Swine; Time Factors

The aim of this review is to examine the literature on possible animal models for anorexia nervosa.. The literature was searched using MedLine, PSYCHLIT, and CAB Abstracts using search items that included body composition, thin sow syndrome, and halothane gene. In addition, key workers in the field of animal husbandry and body composition were sent earlier drafts of the paper for comment.. Thin sow syndrome in pigs has some similarities to anorexia nervosa. Leanness and susceptibility to stress are associated in pigs with mutations of the ryanodine gene. Body composition in animals has a high heritability and various components of this overall composite trait are influenced to a major extent by polymorphism at specific gene loci.. Recent developments in understanding body composition in animals offer intriguing insights into anorexia nervosa and suggest several candidate genes which would be worthy of further examination.

Topics: Animals; Anorexia Nervosa; Behavior, Animal; Body Composition; Disease Models, Animal; Halothane; Humans; Mutation; Ryanodine; Serotonin; Swine

Ryanodine receptors (RyRs) mediate calcium release from calcium stores and have been implicated in axonal degeneration. Here, we use an intravital imaging approach to determine axonal fate after spinal cord injury (SCI) in real-time and assess the efficacy of ryanodine receptor inhibition as a potential therapeutic approach to prevent intra-axonal calcium-mediated axonal degeneration. Adult 6-8 week old

Topics: Animals; Axons; Calcium; Disease Models, Animal; Intravital Microscopy; Mice; Mice, Transgenic; Ryanodine; Ryanodine Receptor Calcium Release Channel; Spinal Cord; Spinal Cord Injuries

Ryanodine receptors (RyR) are essential regulators of cellular calcium homeostasis and signaling. Vertebrate genomes contain multiple RyR gene isoforms, expressed in different tissues and executing different functions. In contrast, invertebrate genomes contain a single RyR-encoding gene and it has long been proposed that different transcripts generated by alternative splicing may diversify their functions. Here, we analyze the expression and function of alternative exons in the C. elegans RyR gene unc-68. We show that specific isoform subsets are created via alternative promoters and via alternative splicing in unc-68 Divergent Region 2 (DR2), which actually corresponds to a region of high sequence variability across vertebrate isoforms. The expression of specific unc-68 alternative exons is enriched in different tissues, such as in body wall muscle, neurons and pharyngeal muscle. In order to infer the function of specific alternative promoters and alternative exons of unc-68, we selectively deleted them by CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing. We evaluated pharyngeal function, as well as locomotor function in swimming and crawling with high-content computer-assisted postural and behavioral analysis. Our data provide a comprehensive map of the pleiotropic impact of isoform-specific mutations and highlight that tissue-specific unc-68 isoforms fulfill distinct functions. As a whole, our work clarifies how the C. elegans single RyR gene unc-68 can fulfill multiple tasks through tissue-specific isoforms, and provide a solid foundation to further develop C. elegans as a model to study RyR channel functions and malfunctions.

Topics: Alternative Splicing; Animals; Animals, Genetically Modified; Caenorhabditis elegans; Caenorhabditis elegans Proteins; Calcium Signaling; Disease Models, Animal; Exons; Humans; Muscle Contraction; Muscle, Skeletal; Mutation; Organ Specificity; Protein Isoforms; Ryanodine; Ryanodine Receptor Calcium Release Channel

Human loss-of-function variants of ANK2 (ankyrin-B) are linked to arrhythmias and sudden cardiac death. However, their in vivo effects and specific arrhythmogenic pathways have not been fully elucidated.. We identified new ANK2 variants in 25 unrelated Han Chinese probands with ventricular tachycardia by whole-exome sequencing. The potential pathogenic variants were validated by Sanger sequencing. We performed functional and mechanistic experiments in ankyrin-B knockin (KI) mouse models and in single myocytes isolated from KI hearts.. We detected a rare, heterozygous ANK2 variant (p.Q1283H) in a proband with recurrent ventricular tachycardia. This variant was localized to the ZU5. ANK2 p.Q1283H is a disease-associated variant that confers susceptibility to stress-induced arrhythmias, which may be prevented by the administration of metoprolol or flecainide. This variant is associated with the loss of protein phosphatase 2A activity, increased phosphorylation of ryanodine receptor, exaggerated delayed afterdepolarization-mediated trigger activity, and arrhythmogenesis.

Topics: Action Potentials; Animals; Ankyrins; Arrhythmias, Cardiac; Calcium; Disease Models, Animal; Electrocardiography; Female; Humans; Isoproterenol; Mice; Middle Aged; Myocytes, Cardiac; Phosphorylation; Polymorphism, Single Nucleotide; Protein Phosphatase 2; Ryanodine; Ryanodine Receptor Calcium Release Channel; Sarcoplasmic Reticulum

Resveratrol has been widely investigated for its potential health properties, although little is known about its mechanism in vivo. Previous studies have indicated that resveratrol produces antinociceptive effects in mice. Calcium channels and calcium/caffeine-sensitive pools are reported to be associated with analgesic effect. The present study was to explore the involvement of Ca2+ channel and calcium/caffeine-sensitive pools in the antinociceptive response of resveratrol. Tail-flick test was used to assess antinociception in mice treated with resveratrol or the combinations of resveratrol with MK 801, nimodipine, CaCl2, ryanodine and ethylene glycol tetraacetic acid (EGTA), respectively. The Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels in the spinal cord were also investigated when treated with the above drugs. The results showed that resveratrol increased the tail flick latency in the tail-flick test, in dose-dependent manner. N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) glutamate receptor antagonist MK 801 potentiated the antinociceptive effects of sub-threshold dose of resveratrol at 10 mg/kg. Ca2+ channel blocker, however, abolished the antinociceptive effects of resveratrol. In contrast to these results, EGTA or ryanodine treatment (i.c.v.) potentiated resveratrol-induced antinociception. There was a significant decrease in p-CaMKII and an increase in BDNF expression in the spinal cord when combined with MK 801, nimodipine, ryanodine and EGTA. While an increase in p-CaMKII level and a decrease in BDNF expression were observed when high dose of resveratrol combined with CaCl2. These findings suggest that resveratrol exhibits the antinociceptive effects by inhibition of calcium channels and calcium/caffeine-sensitive pools.

Topics: Analgesics; Animals; Behavior, Animal; Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor; Caffeine; Calcium Channel Blockers; Calcium Channels; Calcium Chelating Agents; Calcium Chloride; Calcium Signaling; Calcium-Calmodulin-Dependent Protein Kinase Type 2; Disease Models, Animal; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; Egtazic Acid; Male; Mice, Inbred ICR; Nociception; Nociceptive Pain; Phosphorylation; Reaction Time; Resveratrol; Ryanodine; Spinal Cord; Stilbenes; Time Factors

Ischemia-reperfusion injury is the major complication of abdominal aortic surgery, and it mainly affects the lower extremities and remote organs. In the present study, the electrophysiological alterations in diaphragm that underlie the post-operative respiratory dysfunction were investigated. Wistar Albino rats were randomly divided into two groups: SHAM (only laparotomy was performed) and IR (abdominal aorta was clamped for 30min and reperfused for 2h). Following the operational period diaphragm muscles were isolated and electrophysiological experiments were carried out in-vitro. 3nM Ryanodine application, Na

Topics: 4-Aminopyridine; Action Potentials; Analysis of Variance; Animals; Biophysics; Diaphragm; Disease Models, Animal; Electric Stimulation; Excitatory Amino Acid Agonists; Ischemia; Male; Muscle Contraction; N-Methylaspartate; Potassium Channel Blockers; Rats; Rats, Wistar; Reperfusion Injury; Ryanodine; Time Factors

Hyperalgesic priming, a sexually dimorphic model of transition to chronic pain, is expressed as prolongation of prostaglandin E2-induced hyperalgesia by the activation of an additional pathway including an autocrine mechanism at the plasma membrane. The autocrine mechanism involves the transport of cyclic adenosine monophosphate (AMP) to the extracellular space, and its conversion to AMP and adenosine, by ecto-5'phosphodiesterase and ecto-5'nucleotidase, respectively. The end product, adenosine, activates A1 receptors, producing delayed onset prolongation of prostaglandin E2 hyperalgesia. We tested the hypothesis that the previously reported, estrogen-dependent, sexual dimorphism observed in the induction of priming is present in the mechanisms involved in its expression, as a regulatory effect on ecto-5'nucleotidase by estrogen receptor α (EsRα), in female rats. In the primed paw AMP hyperalgesia was dependent on conversion to adenosine, being prevented by ecto-5'nucleotidase inhibitor α,β-methyleneadenosine 5'-diphosphate sodium salt and A1 receptor antagonist 8-cyclopentyl-1,3-dipropylxanthine. To investigate an interaction between EsRα and ecto-5'nucleotidase, we treated primed female rats with oligodeoxynucleotide antisense or mismatch against EsRα messenger RNA. Whereas in rats treated with antisense AMP-induced hyperalgesia was abolished, the A1 receptor agonist N. This study presents evidence of an estrogen-dependent mechanism of expression of chronic pain in female rats, supporting the suggestion that differential targets must be considered when establishing protocols for the treatment of painful conditions in men and women.

Topics: 5'-Nucleotidase; Adenosine; Adenosine A1 Receptor Antagonists; Adenosine Monophosphate; Animals; Chronic Pain; Dinoprostone; Disease Models, Animal; DNA, Antisense; Estrogen Receptor alpha; Female; Gene Expression Regulation; Hyperalgesia; Male; Pain Threshold; Rats; Rats, Sprague-Dawley; Ryanodine; Sex Factors; Time Factors; Xanthines

Hyperalgesic priming, a model of pain chronification in the rat, is mediated by ryanodine receptor-dependent calcium release. Although ryanodine induces priming in both sexes, females are 5 orders of magnitude more sensitive, by an estrogen receptor α (EsRα)-dependent mechanism. An inositol 1,4,5-triphosphate (IP

Topics: Animals; Cells, Cultured; Dinoprostone; Disease Models, Animal; Enzyme Inhibitors; Female; Ganglia, Spinal; Hyperalgesia; Inositol 1,4,5-Trisphosphate; Inositol 1,4,5-Trisphosphate Receptors; Macrocyclic Compounds; Male; Oligodeoxyribonucleotides, Antisense; Oxazoles; Pain Measurement; Pain Threshold; Rats; Rats, Sprague-Dawley; Ryanodine; Ryanodine Receptor Calcium Release Channel; Sensory Receptor Cells; Sex Characteristics; Thapsigargin

A possible contributing factor to the development of cognitive deficits in Alzheimer's disease (AD) patients involves the exposure to early life stress.. We explored the impact of stress on synaptic plasticity (long-term potentiation, LTP) of 6-month-old triple-transgenic mice (3×Tg-AD).. 3×Tg-AD and control (NonTg) mice were exposed to three stressors at the age of 2 and 4 months. Excitatory postsynaptic potentials were recorded in the stratum radiatum of the CA1 region of hippocampal slices, in a two-pathway paradigm.. Slices taken from 3×Tg-AD mice exhibited significant deficits in LTP compared with NonTg slices. Early stress led to a further decrease in LTP in these mice, while it did not affect NonTg mice. LTP in 3×Tg-AD and stressed 3×Tg-AD mice was rescued by pre-exposure to 0.2 µM ryanodine. In an attempt to find a molecular correlate for the effects of stress in the 3×Tg-AD mice, we found that stressed mice have an altered ratio of Aβ42/40 both in the cortex and hippocampus.. Stress experiences in young adults may accelerate the cognitive loss in AD mice, adding another dimension to the plethora of factors that lead to AD.

Topics: Alzheimer Disease; Animals; CA1 Region, Hippocampal; Disease Models, Animal; Excitatory Postsynaptic Potentials; Male; Mice; Mice, Transgenic; Neuronal Plasticity; Organ Culture Techniques; Ryanodine; Stress, Psychological

Transected axons of the central nervous system fail to regenerate and instead die back away from the lesion site, resulting in permanent disability. Although both intrinsic (eg, microtubule instability, calpain activation) and extrinsic (ie, macrophages) processes are implicated in axonal dieback, the underlying mechanisms remain uncertain. Furthermore, the precise mechanisms that cause delayed "bystander" loss of spinal axons, that is, ones that were not directly damaged by the initial insult, but succumbed to secondary degeneration, remain unclear. Our goal was to evaluate the role of intra-axonal Ca(2+) stores in secondary axonal degeneration following spinal cord injury.. We developed a 2-photon laser-induced spinal cord injury model to follow morphological and Ca(2+) changes in live myelinated spinal axons acutely following injury.. Transected axons "died back" within swollen myelin or underwent synchronous pan-fragmentation associated with robust Ca(2+) increases. Spared fibers underwent delayed secondary bystander degeneration. Reducing Ca(2+) release from axonal stores mediated by ryanodine and inositol triphosphate receptors significantly decreased axonal dieback and bystander injury. Conversely, a gain-of-function ryanodine receptor 2 mutant or pharmacological treatments that promote axonal store Ca(2+) release worsened these events.. Ca(2+) release from intra-axonal Ca(2+) stores, distributed along the length of the axon, contributes significantly to secondary degeneration of axons. This refocuses our approach to protecting spinal white matter tracts, where emphasis has been placed on limiting Ca(2+) entry from the extracellular space across cell membranes, and emphasizes that modulation of axonal Ca(2+) stores may be a key pharmacotherapeutic goal in spinal cord injury.

Topics: Animals; Axons; Bacterial Proteins; Boron Compounds; Caffeine; Calcium; Disease Models, Animal; Endoplasmic Reticulum; Enzyme Inhibitors; Laser Therapy; Luminescent Proteins; Mice; Mice, Inbred C57BL; Mice, Transgenic; Mutation; Nerve Degeneration; Purinergic P1 Receptor Antagonists; Ryanodine; Ryanodine Receptor Calcium Release Channel; Spinal Cord Injuries; Thapsigargin; Time Factors

: We used the isolated working rat model to evaluate the effect of therapeutic concentrations (5-10 μM) of ranolazine on contractile performance, oxygen consumption, irreversible ischemic injury, and sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) function. Ischemic injury was induced by 30 minutes of global ischemia followed by 120 minutes of Langendorff reperfusion and evaluated on the basis of triphenyltetrazolium chloride staining. SR function was determined on the basis of [H]-ryanodine binding, the kinetics of calcium-induced calcium release, measured by quick filtration technique, and oxalate-supported calcium uptake. In working hearts, ranolazine significantly reduced oxygen consumption (P = 0.031), in the absence of significant changes in contractile performance, and decreased irreversible ischemic injury (P = 0.011), if administered either before ischemia-reperfusion (25.4% ± 4.7% vs. 42.7% ± 6.0%) or only at the time of reperfusion (20.2% ± 5.2% vs. 43.7% ± 9.9%). In SR experiments, treatment with ranolazine determined a significant reduction in [H]-ryanodine binding (P = 0.029), because of decreased binding site density (369 ± 9 vs. 405 ± 12 fmol/mg), and in the kinetics of SR calcium release (P = 0.011), whose rate constant was decreased, whereas active calcium uptake was not affected. Ranolazine effectiveness at reperfusion and its ability to module SR calcium release suggest that this drug might be particularly useful to induce cardioprotection during coronary revascularization interventions, although the relevance of the effects on calcium homeostasis remains to be determined.

Topics: Acetanilides; Animals; Calcium; Cardiotonic Agents; Disease Models, Animal; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; Male; Myocardial Reperfusion Injury; Oxygen Consumption; Piperazines; Ranolazine; Rats; Rats, Wistar; Ryanodine; Sarcoplasmic Reticulum

Tetanic stimulation of the sciatic nerve induces long-term potentiation (LTP) of C-fiber-evoked field potentials in the spinal dorsal horn and persistent pain, suggesting that spinal LTP may be a substrate for central sensitization of the pain pathway. However, its cellular mechanism remains unclear. The present study provides electrophysiological and behavioral evidence for the involvement of ryanodine receptor (RyR) in the induction of spinal LTP and persistent pain in rats. The specific inhibitor of ryanodine receptor, ryanodine and dantrolene, dose dependently blocked the induction, but not maintenance, of spinal LTP and reduced persistent pain behaviors induced by tetanic sciatic stimulation. Both cyclic ADP ribose (cADPR), an endogenous agonist of RyR, and (±)-1,4-dihydro-2,6-dimethyl-5-nitro-4-[2-(trifluromethyl)-phenyl]-3-pyridine carboxylic acid methyl ester (Bay K 8644), an agonist of L-type calcium channel, attenuated ryanodine-induced inhibition. Immunohistochemistry and electron microscopic observation showed that RyR subtypes RyR1 and RyR3 were located in the spinal dorsal horn. The results suggest that RyRs are involved in synaptic plasticity of the spinal pain pathway and may be a novel target for treating pain. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Topics: 3-Pyridinecarboxylic acid, 1,4-dihydro-2,6-dimethyl-5-nitro-4-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)-, Methyl ester; Analysis of Variance; Animals; Biophysics; Calcium Channel Agonists; Dantrolene; Disease Models, Animal; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; Electric Stimulation; Evoked Potentials; Functional Laterality; Gene Expression Regulation; Long-Term Potentiation; Male; Microscopy, Electron, Transmission; Muscle Relaxants, Central; Nerve Fibers, Unmyelinated; Pain; Pain Measurement; Posterior Horn Cells; Rats; Rats, Sprague-Dawley; Ryanodine; Ryanodine Receptor Calcium Release Channel; Sciatic Nerve; Spinal Cord

Post-rest contraction (PRC) of cardiac muscle provides indirect information about the intracellular calcium handling.. Our aim was to study the behavior of PRC, and its underlying mechanisms, in rats with myocardial infarction.. Six weeks after coronary occlusion, the contractility of papillary muscles (PM) obtained from sham-operated (C, n=17), moderate infarcted (MMI, n=10) and large infarcted (LMI, n=14) rats was evaluated, following rest intervals of 10 to 60 seconds before and after incubation with lithium chloride (Li(+)) substituting sodium chloride or ryanodine (Ry). Protein expression of SR Ca(2+)-ATPase (SERCA2), Na(+)/Ca(2+) exchanger (NCX), phospholamban (PLB) and phospho-Ser(16)-PLB were analyzed by Western blotting.. MMI exhibited reduced PRC potentiation when compared to C. Opposing the normal potentiation for C, post-rest decays of force were observed in LMI muscles. In addition, Ry blocked PRC decay or potentiation observed in LMI and C; Li(+) inhibited NCX and converted PRC decay to potentiation in LMI. Although MMI and LMI presented decreased SERCA2 (72±7% and 47±9% of Control, respectively) and phospho-Ser(16)-PLB (75±5% and 46±11%, respectively) protein expression, overexpression of NCX (175±20%) was only observed in LMI muscles.. Our results showed, for the first time ever, that myocardial remodeling after MI in rats may change the regular potentiation to post-rest decay by affecting myocyte Ca(2+) handling proteins.

Topics: Animals; Calcium; Calcium-Binding Proteins; Disease Models, Animal; Lithium Chloride; Myocardial Contraction; Myocardial Infarction; Myocytes, Cardiac; Papillary Muscles; Random Allocation; Rats; Rats, Wistar; Ryanodine; Sarcoplasmic Reticulum Calcium-Transporting ATPases; Sodium-Calcium Exchanger; Ventricular Remodeling

Calcium transient triggered firing (CTTF) is induced by large intracellular calcium (Ca(i)) transient and short action potential duration (APD). We hypothesized that CTTF underlies the mechanisms of early afterdepolarization (EAD) and spontaneous recurrent atrial fibrillation (AF) in transgenic (Tx) mice with overexpression of transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1).. MHC-TGFcys(33)ser Tx mice develop atrial fibrosis because of elevated levels of TGF-β1. We studied membrane potential and Ca(i)transients of isolated superfused atria from Tx and wild-type (Wt) littermates. Short APD and persistently elevated Ca(i) transients promoted spontaneous repetitive EADs, triggered activity and spontaneous AF after cessation of burst pacing in Tx but not Wt atria (39% vs. 0%, P=0.008). We were able to map optically 4 episodes of spontaneous AF re-initiation. All first and second beats of spontaneous AF originated from the right atrium (4/4, 100%), which is more severely fibrotic than the left atrium. Ryanodine and thapsigargin inhibited spontaneous re-initiation of AF in all 7 Tx atria tested. Western blotting showed no significant changes of calsequestrin or sarco/endoplasmic reticulum Ca(2+)-ATPase 2a.. Spontaneous AF may occur in the Tx atrium because of CTTF, characterized by APD shortening, prolonged Ca(i) transient, EAD and triggered activity. Inhibition of Ca(2+) release from the sarcoplasmic reticulum suppressed spontaneous AF. Our results indicate that CTTF is an important arrhythmogenic mechanism in TGF-β1 Tx atria.

Topics: Action Potentials; Animals; Atrial Fibrillation; Atrial Function; Blotting, Western; Calcium Signaling; Cardiac Pacing, Artificial; Disease Models, Animal; Electrophysiologic Techniques, Cardiac; Enzyme Inhibitors; Fibrosis; Heart Atria; Heart Conduction System; Mice; Mice, Transgenic; Ryanodine; Sarcoplasmic Reticulum Calcium-Transporting ATPases; Thapsigargin; Time Factors; Transforming Growth Factor beta1; Up-Regulation

Mutations in amyloid precursor protein (APP), and presenilin-1 and presenilin-2 (PS1 and PS2) have causally been implicated in Familial Alzheimer's Disease (FAD), but the mechanistic link between the mutations and the early onset of neurodegeneration is still debated. Although no consensus has yet been reached, most data suggest that both FAD-linked PS mutants and endogenous PSs are involved in cellular Ca2+ homeostasis. We here investigated subcellular Ca2+ handling in primary neuronal cultures and acute brain slices from wild type and transgenic mice carrying the FAD-linked PS2-N141I mutation, either alone or in the presence of the APP Swedish mutation. Compared with wild type, both types of transgenic neurons show a similar reduction in endoplasmic reticulum (ER) Ca2+ content and decreased response to metabotropic agonists, albeit increased Ca2+ release induced by caffeine. In both transgenic neurons, we also observed a higher ER-mitochondria juxtaposition that favors increased mitochondrial Ca2+ uptake upon ER Ca2+ release. A model is described that integrates into a unifying hypothesis the contradictory effects on Ca2+ homeostasis of different PS mutations and points to the relevance of these findings in neurodegeneration and aging.

Topics: Alzheimer Disease; Amyloid beta-Protein Precursor; Animals; Calcium; Disease Models, Animal; Endoplasmic Reticulum; Inositol 1,4,5-Trisphosphate; Mice; Mice, Transgenic; Mitochondria; Neurons; Presenilin-2; Ryanodine

QT prolongation may increase the risk of torsades de pointes (TdP). Early afterdepolarizations (EADs) and transmural dispersion of repolarization have been known to serve as physiological substrates and predictors for TdP. Abnormal Ca(2+) cycling is the proximate cause of EADs, and Ca(2+) cycling is abnormal in heart failure (HF). However, the mechanisms for drug-induced TdP in HF are poorly understood. The purpose of this study was to search for torsadogenic-modifying effects of verapamil, ryanodine, KB-R7943, W-7, KN-93, and H-8 on ventricular premature depolarizations (VPD) and TdP in rabbits with HF. Rabbits with HF were pretreated with propranolol followed by test articles before continuous infusion of dofetilide to induce TdP. In the control hearts, VPD and TdP were induced in all rabbits and the onsets of VPD and TdP were 3.6 +/- 1.3 minutes and 10.3 +/- 1.4 minutes, respectively. Dofetilide lengthened RR, QT and QTc. Verapamil, ryanodine and H-8 significantly delayed onset of VPD (P < 0.05) and suppressed TdP (P < 0.01). KB-R7943, W-7, and KN-93 accelerated onset of TdP. Blockades of L-type Ca(2+) channel, ryanodine channel, and protein kinase A prevent dofetilide-induced TdP, suggesting roles for intracellular Ca(2+) overload and Ca(2+) signaling pathways in drug-induced TdP.

Topics: Animals; Anti-Arrhythmia Agents; Benzylamines; Disease Models, Animal; Heart Failure; Isoquinolines; Male; Protein Kinase Inhibitors; Rabbits; Ryanodine; Sulfonamides; Thiourea; Torsades de Pointes; Ventricular Premature Complexes; Verapamil

The contribution of sympathetic nerves arising from the superior cervical ganglia (SCG) toward the growth and function of cerebral blood vessels is pertinent throughout maturation as well as in response to cardiovascular stress imposed by high-altitude long-term hypoxia (LTH). The function of SCG sympathetic neurons is dependent on intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) signaling, which is strongly influenced by a process known as Ca(2+)-induced Ca2+ release (CICR) from the smooth endoplasmic reticulum (SER). In this study, we used the sheep SCG neuronal model to test the hypotheses that maturation decreases CICR and high-altitude LTH depresses CICR in fetal SCG neurons but not in those of the adult. We found that the contribution of CICR to electric field stimulation (EFS)-evoked [Ca2+]i transients was greatest in SCG cells from normoxic fetuses and was abolished by LTH. The decline in CICR was associated with a reduction in sarco(endo)plasmic reticulum Ca(2+)-ATPase (SERCA) function in fetal SCG cells during LTH, reducing SER Ca2+ levels below the threshold needed for the coupling of Ca2+ influx and CICR. With respect to the maturation from the fetus to adult, the decrease in CICR may reflect both a reduction in the levels of ryanodine receptor isoforms 2 and 3 and SERCA function. In response to LTH and in contrast to the fetus, CICR function in adult SCG cells is maintained and may reflect alterations in other mechanisms that modulate the CICR process. As CICR is instrumental in the function of sympathetic neurons within the cerebrovasculature, the loss of this signaling mechanism in the fetus may have consequences for the adaptation to LTH in terms of fetal susceptibility to vascular insults.

Topics: Age Factors; Aging; Animals; Caffeine; Calcium; Calcium Signaling; Cerebral Arteries; Cyclic ADP-Ribose; Disease Models, Animal; Electric Stimulation; Enzyme Inhibitors; Fetal Hypoxia; Hypoxia; Indoles; Nitric Oxide Synthase Type I; Ryanodine; Ryanodine Receptor Calcium Release Channel; Sarcoplasmic Reticulum; Sarcoplasmic Reticulum Calcium-Transporting ATPases; Sheep; Superior Cervical Ganglion; Sympathetic Fibers, Postganglionic; Time Factors

A strong premature electrical stimulus (S(2)) induces both virtual anodes and virtual cathodes. The effects of virtual electrodes on intracellular Ca(2+) concentration ([Ca(2+)](i)) transients and ventricular fibrillation thresholds (VFTs) are unclear. We studied 16 isolated, Langendorff-perfused rabbit hearts with simultaneous voltage and [Ca(2+)](i) optical mapping and for vulnerable window determination. After baseline pacing (S(1)), a monophasic (10 ms anodal or cathodal) or biphasic (5 ms-5 ms) S(2) was applied to the left ventricular epicardium. Virtual electrode polarizations and [Ca(2+)](i) varied depending on the S(2) polarity. Relative to the level of [Ca(2+)](i) during the S(1) beat, the [Ca(2+)](i) level 40 ms after the onset of monophasic S(2) increased by 36+/-8% at virtual anodes and 20+/-5% at virtual cathodes (P<0.01), compared with 25+/-5% at both virtual cathode-anode and anode-cathode sites for biphasic S(2). The VFT was significantly higher and the vulnerable window significantly narrower for biphasic S(2) than for either anodal or cathodal S(2) (n=7, P<0.01). Treatment with thapsigargin and ryanodine (n=6) significantly prolonged the action potential duration compared with control (255+/-22 vs. 189+/-6 ms, P<0.05) and eliminated the difference in VFT between monophasic and biphasic S(2), although VFT was lower for both cases. We conclude that virtual anodes caused a greater increase in [Ca(2+)](i) than virtual cathodes. Monophasic S(2) is associated with lower VFT than biphasic S(2), but this difference was eliminated by the inhibition of the sarcoplasmic reticulum function and the prolongation of the action potential duration. However, the inhibition of the sarcoplasmic reticulum function also reduced VFT, indicating that the [Ca(2+)](i) dynamics modulate, but are not essential, to ventricular vulnerability.

Topics: Action Potentials; Animals; Calcium Signaling; Disease Models, Animal; Electric Stimulation; Enzyme Inhibitors; Heart Ventricles; Myocytes, Cardiac; Perfusion; Pericardium; Rabbits; Ryanodine; Sarcoplasmic Reticulum Calcium-Transporting ATPases; Thapsigargin; Time Factors; Ventricular Fibrillation

Returning to normal pH after acidosis, similar to reperfusion after ischemia, is prone to arrhythmias. The type and mechanisms of these arrhythmias have never been explored and were the aim of the present work. Langendorff-perfused rat/mice hearts and rat-isolated myocytes were subjected to respiratory acidosis and then returned to normal pH. Monophasic action potentials and left ventricular developed pressure were recorded. The removal of acidosis provoked ectopic beats that were blunted by 1 muM of the CaMKII inhibitor KN-93, 1 muM thapsigargin, to inhibit sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) Ca(2+) uptake, and 30 nM ryanodine or 45 muM dantrolene, to inhibit SR Ca(2+) release and were not observed in a transgenic mouse model with inhibition of CaMKII targeted to the SR. Acidosis increased the phosphorylation of Thr(17) site of phospholamban (PT-PLN) and SR Ca(2+) load. Both effects were precluded by KN-93. The return to normal pH was associated with an increase in SR Ca(2+) leak, when compared with that of control or with acidosis at the same SR Ca(2+) content. Ca(2+) leak occurred without changes in the phosphorylation of ryanodine receptors type 2 (RyR2) and was blunted by KN-93. Experiments in planar lipid bilayers confirmed the reversible inhibitory effect of acidosis on RyR2. Ectopic activity was triggered by membrane depolarizations (delayed afterdepolarizations), primarily occurring in epicardium and were prevented by KN-93. The results reveal that arrhythmias after acidosis are dependent on CaMKII activation and are associated with an increase in SR Ca(2+) load, which appears to be mainly due to the increase in PT-PLN.

Topics: Acidosis; Action Potentials; Animals; Arrhythmias, Cardiac; Benzylamines; Calcium; Calcium-Binding Proteins; Calcium-Calmodulin-Dependent Protein Kinase Type 2; Dantrolene; Disease Models, Animal; Enzyme Inhibitors; Hydrogen-Ion Concentration; Male; Mice; Mice, Transgenic; Myocytes, Cardiac; Peptides; Phosphorylation; Rats; Rats, Wistar; Ryanodine; Ryanodine Receptor Calcium Release Channel; Sarcoplasmic Reticulum; Sarcoplasmic Reticulum Calcium-Transporting ATPases; Sulfonamides; Thapsigargin; Time Factors; Ventricular Function, Left; Ventricular Pressure

Neurodegeneration in Alzheimer's disease (AD) has been linked to intracellular accumulation of misfolded proteins and dysregulation of intracellular Ca2+. In the current work, we determined the contribution of specific Ca2+ pathways to an alteration in Ca2+ homeostasis in primary cortical neurons from an adult triple transgenic (3xTg-AD) mouse model of AD that exhibits intraneuronal accumulation of beta-amyloid proteins. Resting free Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+](i)), as measured with Ca2+-selective microelectrodes, was greatly elevated in neurons from 3xTg-AD and APP(SWE) mouse strains when compared with their respective non-transgenic neurons, while there was no alteration in the resting membrane potential. In the absence of the extracellular Ca2+, the [Ca2+](i) returned to near normal levels in 3xTg-AD neurons, demonstrating that extracellular Ca2+contributed to elevated [Ca2+](i). Application of nifedipine, or a non-L-type channel blocker, SKF-96365, partially reduced [Ca2+](i). Blocking the ryanodine receptors, with ryanodine or FLA-365 had no effect, suggesting that these channels do not contribute to the elevated [Ca2+](i). Conversely, inhibition of inositol trisphosphate receptors with xestospongin C produced a partial reduction in [Ca2+](i). These results demonstrate that an elevation in resting [Ca2+](i), contributed by aberrant Ca2+entry and release pathways, should be considered a major component of the abnormal Ca2+ homeostasis associated with AD.

Topics: Alzheimer Disease; Amyloid; Amyloid beta-Protein Precursor; Animals; Calcium; Calcium Channel Blockers; Calcium Channels, L-Type; Calcium Signaling; Cells, Cultured; Disease Models, Animal; Homeostasis; Humans; Mice; Mice, Transgenic; Neocortex; Neurons; Presenilin-1; Ryanodine; tau Proteins

T-wave alternans, characterized by a beat-to-beat change in T-wave morphology, amplitude, and/or polarity on the ECG, often heralds the development of lethal ventricular arrhythmias in patients with left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH). The aim of our study was to examine the ionic basis for a beat-to-beat change in ventricular repolarization in the setting of LVH. Transmembrane action potentials (APs) from epicardium and endocardium were recorded simultaneously, together with transmural ECG and contraction force, in arterially perfused rabbit left ventricular wedge preparation. APs and Ca(2+)-activated chloride current (I(Cl,Ca)) were recorded from left ventricular myocytes isolated from normal rabbits and those with renovascular LVH using the standard microelectrode and whole cell patch-clamping techniques, respectively. In the LVH rabbits, a significant beat-to-beat change in endocardial AP duration (APD) created beat-to-beat alteration in transmural voltage gradient that manifested as T-wave alternans on the ECG. Interestingly, contraction force alternated in an opposite phase ("out of phase") with APD. In the single myocytes of LVH rabbits, a significant beat-to-beat change in APD was also observed in both left ventricular endocardial and epicardial myocytes at various pacing rates. APD alternans was suppressed by adding 1 microM ryanodine, 100 microM 4,4'-diisothiocyanostilbene-2,2'-disulfonic acid (DIDS), and 100 microM 4-acetamido-4'-isothiocyanostilbene-2,2'-disulfonic acid (SITS). The density of the Ca(2+)-activated chloride currents (I(Cl,Ca)) in left ventricular myocytes was significantly greater in the LVH rabbits than in the normal group. Our data indicate that abnormal intracellular Ca(2+) fluctuation may exert a strong feedback on the membrane I(Cl,Ca), leading to a beat-to-beat change in the net repolarizing current that manifests as T-wave alternans on the ECG.

Topics: 4-Acetamido-4'-isothiocyanatostilbene-2,2'-disulfonic Acid; 4,4'-Diisothiocyanostilbene-2,2'-Disulfonic Acid; Action Potentials; Animals; Arrhythmias, Cardiac; Calcium Signaling; Cardiac Pacing, Artificial; Chloride Channels; Disease Models, Animal; Electrocardiography; Endocardium; Hypertrophy, Left Ventricular; Myocardial Contraction; Myocytes, Cardiac; Patch-Clamp Techniques; Pericardium; Rabbits; Ryanodine; Time Factors

Malignant hyperthermia (MH) susceptibility is conferred by inheriting one of >60 missense mutations within the highly regulated microsomal Ca(2+) channel known as ryanodine receptor type 1 (RyR1). Although MH susceptible patients lack overt clinical signs, a potentially lethal MH syndrome can be triggered by exposure to halogenated alkane anesthetics. This study compares how non-coplanar 2,2',3,5',6-pentachlorobiphenyl (PCB 95), a congener identified in environmental and human samples, alters the binding properties of [(3)H]ryanodine to RyR1 in vitro. Junctional sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) was isolated from skeletal muscle dissected from wild type pigs ((Wt)RyR1) and pigs homozygous for MH mutation R615C ((MH)RyR1), a mutation also found in humans. Although the level of (Wt)RyR1 and (MH)RyR1 expression is the same, (MH)RyR1 shows heightened sensitivity to activation and altered regulation by physiological cations. We report here that (MH)RyR1 shows more pronounced activation by Ca(2+), and is less sensitive to channel inhibition by Ca(2+) and Mg(2+), compared to (Wt)RyR1. In a buffer containing 100nM free Ca(2+), conditions typically found in resting cells, PCB 95 (50-1000nM) enhances the activity of (MH)RyR1 whereas it has no detectable effect on (Wt)RyR1. PCB 95 (2microM) decreases channel inhibition by Mg(2+) to a greater extent in (MH)RyR1 (IC(50) increased nine-fold) compared to (Wt)RyR1 (IC(50) increased by 2.5-fold). PCB95 reduces inhibition by Ca(2+) two-fold more with (MH)RyR1 than (Wt)RyR1. Our data suggest that non-coplanar PCBs are more potent and efficacious toward (MH)RyR1 than (Wt)RyR1, and have more profound effects on its cation regulation. Considering the important roles of Ca(2+) and Mg(2+) in regulating Ca(2+) signals involving RyR channels, these data provide the first mechanistic evidence that a genetic mutation known to confer susceptibility to pharmacological agents also enhances sensitivity to an environmental contaminant.

Topics: Animals; Arginine; Calcium; Cysteine; Disease Models, Animal; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; In Vitro Techniques; Inhibitory Concentration 50; Malignant Hyperthermia; Muscle, Skeletal; Mutation; Polychlorinated Biphenyls; Protein Binding; Ryanodine; Ryanodine Receptor Calcium Release Channel; Sarcoplasmic Reticulum; Swine; Tritium

Heat acclimation (AC) improves cardiac mechanical and metabolic performance. Using cardiomyocytes and isolated hearts from 30-day and 2-day acclimated rats (AC and AC-2d, 34 degrees C), we characterized cellular contractile mechanisms under normothermic (37 degrees C) and hyperthermic (39-42 degrees C) conditions. To determine contractile responses, Ca2+ transients (Ca2+ T), sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) Ca2+ pool size (fura-2/indo-1 fluorescence), force generation [amplitude systolic motion (ASM)], L-type Ca2+ channels [dihydropyridine receptor (DHPR)], ryanodine receptors (RyRs), and total (PLBt) and phosphorylated phospholamban [serine phosphorylated (PLBs) and theonine phosphorylated (PLBtr)] proteins and transcripts were measured (Western blot, RT-PCR). Cardiac mechanical performance was measured using a Langendorff system. We demonstrated that AC and AC-2d increased Ca2+ T amplitude (148% and 147%, respectively) and twitch force (180% and 130%, respectively) and desensitized myofilaments, as indicated by a rightward shift in the ASM-Ca2+ relationships, despite no change in SR Ca2+ pool size. Hence, generation of higher Ca2+ T underlies greater force development in AC and AC-2d myocytes. In isolated hearts, ryanodine administration eliminated differences between AC and control (C) hearts, implying an important role for RyRs in that acclimation phase. Increased expression of DHPR and RyRs, and decreased PLBs/PLBt in AC hearts only, suggest that different pathways increase force generation in the AC-2d vs. AC myocytes. At basal beating rates, hyperthermia (39-41 degrees C) enhanced pressure generation in AC hearts. C hearts failed to restitute pressure beyond 39 degrees C. Increased beating frequency produced negative inotropic response. In C cardiomyocytes, hyperthermia elevated basal cytosolic Ca2+ and tension, Ca2+ T, and ASM. AC myocytes enhanced Ca2+ T but showed myofilament desensitization, suggesting its involvement in cardiac protection against hyperthermia. Collectively, both Ca2+ turnover and myofilament responsiveness are important adaptive acclimatory targets during normothermic and hyperthermic conditions.

Topics: Acclimatization; Actin Cytoskeleton; Animals; Calcium; Calcium Channels, L-Type; Calcium Signaling; Calcium-Binding Proteins; Disease Models, Animal; Fever; Heart Rate; Heat Stress Disorders; Hot Temperature; Kinetics; Male; Myocardial Contraction; Myocytes, Cardiac; Phosphorylation; Rats; RNA, Messenger; Ryanodine; Ryanodine Receptor Calcium Release Channel; Sarcoplasmic Reticulum; Sarcoplasmic Reticulum Calcium-Transporting ATPases; Ventricular Pressure

PPHN, caused by perinatal hypoxia or inflammation, is characterized by an increased thromboxane-prostacyclin ratio and pulmonary vasoconstriction. We examined effects of hypoxia on myocyte thromboxane responsiveness. Myocytes from 3rd-6th generation pulmonary arteries of newborn piglets were grown to confluence and synchronized in contractile phenotype by serum deprivation. On the final 3 days of culture, myocytes were exposed to 10% O2 for 3 days; control myocytes from normoxic piglets were cultured in 21% O2. PPHN was induced in newborn piglets by 3-day hypoxic exposure (Fi(O2) 0.10); pulmonary arterial myocytes from these animals were maintained in normoxia. Ca2+ mobilization to thromboxane mimetic U-46619 and ATP was quantified using fura-2 AM. Three-day hypoxic exposure in vitro results in increased basal [Ca2+]i, faster and heightened peak Ca2+ response, and decreased U-46619 EC50. These functional changes persist in myocytes exposed to hypoxia in vivo but cultured in 21% O2. Blockade of Ca2+ entry and store refilling do not alter peak U-46619 Ca2+ responses in hypoxic or normoxic myocytes. Blockade of ryanodine-sensitive or IP3-gated intracellular Ca2+ channels inhibits hypoxic augmentation of peak U-46619 response. Ca2+ response to ryanodine alone is undetectable; ATP-induced Ca2+ mobilization is unaltered by hypoxia, suggesting no independent increase in ryanodine-sensitive or IP3-linked intracellular Ca2+ pool mobilization. We conclude hypoxia has a priming effect on neonatal pulmonary arterial myocytes, resulting in increased resting Ca2+, thromboxane hypersensitivity, and hyperreactivity. We postulate that hypoxia increases agonist-induced TP-R-linked IP3 pathway activation. Myocyte thromboxane hyperresponsiveness persists in culture after removal from the initiating hypoxic stimulus, suggesting altered gene expression.

Topics: 15-Hydroxy-11 alpha,9 alpha-(epoxymethano)prosta-5,13-dienoic Acid; Animals; Animals, Newborn; Calcium; Calcium Channel Blockers; Cells, Cultured; Disease Models, Animal; Heart Ventricles; Humans; Hypoxia; Infant, Newborn; Macrocyclic Compounds; Muscle Cells; Nifedipine; Organ Size; Oxazoles; Persistent Fetal Circulation Syndrome; Pulmonary Artery; Receptors, Thromboxane; Ryanodine; Swine; Vasoconstriction

The role of intracellular calcium in the modulation of a depressant-like condition was investigated in the mouse forced swimming test. I.c.v. administration of TMB-8 (0.23-46.3 nmol per mouse), a blocker of Ca2+ release from intracellular stores, decreased the mouse immobility time. I.c.v. injection of thapsigargin (0.003-3 nmol per mouse), compound which selectively inhibits Ca2+ uptake into the endoplasmic reticulum, produced, 60 min after administration, a depressant-like condition. Xestospongin C (1-100 pmol per mouse i.c.v.), an InsP3-receptor antagonist, decreased the mouse immobility time. By contrast, d-myo-inositol (5.4-540 pmol per mouse i.c.v.), compound which produces InsP3, resulted in a depressant-like effect. Similarly, ryanodine (0.1-600 pmol per mouse i.c.v.), an RyR antagonist, decreased the immobility time values whereas the administration of 4-chloro-m-cresol (0.1-100 pmol per mouse i.c.v.), an RyR agonist, showed an opposite effect. The antidepressant-like effects observed with TMB-8, xestospongin C and ryanodine were comparable to that produced by the antidepressant drugs amitriptyline and clomipramine. The treatments employed did not produce any behavioural impairment of mice as revealed by the rota-rod and hole board tests indicating that the antidepressant- and depressant-like effects were not due to a compromised locomotor activity and spontaneous motility of the treated animals. These results indicate that a central variation in intracellular calcium contents is involved in the modulation of a depressive-like condition in the mouse forced swimming test. In particular, the blockade of both InsP3Rs and RyRs appears to play an important role in the induction of an antidepressant-like effect, whereas the stimulation of these receptors is involved in a depressant-like response of mice.

Topics: Analysis of Variance; Animals; Antidepressive Agents; Behavior, Animal; Calcium; Calcium Channel Blockers; Depression; Disease Models, Animal; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; Drug Interactions; Enzyme Inhibitors; Gallic Acid; Immobility Response, Tonic; Injections, Intraventricular; Intracellular Space; Male; Mice; Motor Activity; Rotarod Performance Test; Ryanodine; Swimming; Time Factors

Malignant hyperthermia is a pharmacogenetic disorder affecting humans, dogs, pigs, and horses. In the majority of human cases and all cases in animals, malignant hyperthermia has been associated with missense mutations in the skeletal ryanodine receptor (RyR1).. The authors used a "knock-in" targeting vector to create mice carrying the RyR1 R163C malignant hyperthermia mutation.. Validation of this new mouse model of human malignant hyperthermia susceptibility includes (1) proof of transcription of the R163C allele and expression of ryanodine receptor protein in R163C heterozygous and R163C homozygous animals; (2) fulminant malignant hyperthermia episodes in R163C heterozygous mice after exposure to 1.25-1.75% halothane or an ambient temperature of 42 degrees C characterized by increased rectal temperature, respiratory rate, and inspiratory effort, with significant blood biochemical changes indicating metabolic acidosis, ending in death and hyperacute rigor mortis; (3) intraperitoneal pretreatment with dantrolene provided 100% protection from the halothane-triggered fulminant malignant hyperthermia episode; (4) significantly increased sensitivity (decreased effective concentration causing 50% of the maximal response) of R163C heterozygous and homozygous myotubes to caffeine, 4-chloro-m-cresol, and K-induced depolarization; (5) R163C heterozygous and homozygous myotubes have a significantly increased resting intracellular Ca concentration compared with wild type; (6) R163C heterozygous sarcoplasmic reticulum membranes have a twofold higher affinity (Kd = 35.4 nm) for [H]ryanodine binding compared with wild type (Kd = 80.1 nm) and a diminished inhibitory regulation by Mg.. Heterozygous R163C mice represent a valid model for studying the mechanisms that cause the human malignant hyperthermia syndrome.

Topics: Anesthetics, Inhalation; Animals; Blood Gas Analysis; Body Temperature; Calcium; Cell Line; Cell Membrane; Deoxyribonuclease EcoRI; Diagnostic Imaging; Disease Models, Animal; DNA; Exons; Halothane; Humans; Malignant Hyperthermia; Mice; Mice, Knockout; Microelectrodes; Muscle Fibers, Skeletal; Mutation; Nerve Fibers; Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction; RNA; Ryanodine; Ryanodine Receptor Calcium Release Channel

To investigate the changes in binding features of (3)H -Ryanodine cardiac myocytic nuclei in reperfusion injury in the rat, and the effects of phosphorylation regulation on the binding characteristics.. Healthy male Wistar rats were randomly divided into ischemia/reperfusion injury (IRI) group and sham-operation group. IRI model was reproduced by ligating the left main coronary artery for 30 minutes followed by reperfusion of the heart for 3 hours, while in the sham-operation group the animals underwent a thoracotomy only for 3.5 hours. Cardiac myocytic nuclei were isolated by sucrose density gradient centrifugation. The maximum binding capacity (Bmax) and the dissociating ratio (Kd) of Ryanodine receptors (RyRs) were measured by radioligand binding analysis as well as Scatchard plot.. There was a high affinity of RyRs to bind with (3)H-Ryanodine on the nuclear wall of rat cardiac myocytic nucleus. Compared with that of the sham-operation group, Bmax of RyRs of IRI cardiac myocytic nuclei was decreased by 29% (P<0.01), but there was no difference in Kd between two groups(P>0.05). With phosphorylation by activating the endogenous protein kinase C(PKC) with phorbol myristate acetate (PMA)+phosphatidyl serine(PS), Bmax of both sham and IRI groups were increased markedly (P<0.01), but in the latter group it was less increased (P<0.01). With phosphorylation by Ca(2+)-calmodulin (CaM), Bmax was decreased in both sham-operation and IRI groups (both P<0.05), but was less decreased in the latter(P<0.01). However, both PMA+PS and Ca(2+)-CaM did not change the Kd of nuclear RyR in either group (both P>0.05).. After IRI, Bmax of (3)H -Ryanodine of cardiac myocytic nuclei is decreased and the impact of PMA+PS and Ca(2+)-CaM on the Bmax is impaired, but the affinity of (3)H -Ryanodine to cardiac myocytic nuclei is not altered under above circumstances.

Topics: Animals; Cell Nucleus; Disease Models, Animal; Male; Myocardial Reperfusion Injury; Myocytes, Cardiac; Phosphorylation; Random Allocation; Rats; Rats, Wistar; Ryanodine; Ryanodine Receptor Calcium Release Channel

Dynamic changes in intracellular free Ca(2+) concentration play a crucial role in various neural functions. The inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3) receptor (IP3R) and the ryanodine (Ry) receptor (RyR) are involved in Ca(2+)-induced Ca(2+)-release (CICR). Recent studies have shown that type 3 IP3R is highly expressed in rat hippocampal neurons after kainic acid (KA)-induced seizures and that dantrolene, a RyR antagonist, reduces KA-induced neuronal cell death. We investigated the RyR-associated effects of CICR agents on basal and K(+)-evoked releases of GABA and glutamate in rat hippocampus and the changes in expression of mRNA for RyRs in mouse brain after KA-induced seizures. The stimulatory effect of Ry on releases of GABA and glutamate was concentration-dependent in a biphasic manner. The inflection point in concentration-response curves for Ry on GABA release was lower than that for glutamate in both basal and K(+)-evoked conditions, suggesting that hyperactivation of RyR-associated CICR produces the imbalance between GABAergic and glutamatergic transmission. Following KA-induced seizures, transient up-regulation of brain-type RyR mRNA was observed in the hippocampal CA3 region and striatum, and signals for c-Fos mRNA increased transiently in the hippocampus, dentate gyrus and deeper layers of the neocortex. Thereafter, some dead neurons with single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) immunoreactive fragmented nuclei appeared in these areas. These findings suggest that intracellular Ca(2+) release via the RyR might be one of the mechanisms involved in KA-induced neuronal cell death.

Topics: Animals; Calcium; Cell Death; Chromatography, High Pressure Liquid; Disease Models, Animal; DNA, Single-Stranded; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; Electrochemistry; Extracellular Space; gamma-Aminobutyric Acid; Gene Expression Regulation; Glutamic Acid; Hippocampus; Immunohistochemistry; In Situ Hybridization; Kainic Acid; Male; Mice; Neurons; Neurotransmitter Agents; Potassium; Proto-Oncogene Proteins c-fos; Ruthenium Red; Ryanodine; Ryanodine Receptor Calcium Release Channel; Status Epilepticus; Time Factors

To study the possible role of intracellular Ca2+ overload in initiation of cholinergic-dependent atrial fibrillation (AF), we tested the effects of ryanodine in canine models of AF. In anesthetized open-chest dogs (n=10) AF was induced by two methods: (I) perfusion (9 ml/min) with normal Tyrode solution containing acetylcholine (ACh) into the sinus node artery (SNA) and (II) stimulation of the right vagal nerve (VS, 5 sec train). AF was induced in all dogs: by perfusion with ACh (3.7-/+1.5 mcM) into the SNA in 97-/+3% of attempts and by VS in 78-/+6% of attempts. Intravenous infusion of ryanodine (5 mg/kg) did not prevent induction of AF during ACh perfusion (84-/+5%, NS) but completely prevented the induction of AF by VS (4-/+3%, p<0.001). Atrial activation mapping (112 unipolar electrodes) did not show any significant differences between the beginning of ACh-dependent AF in control and after ryanodine treatment. Ryanodine significantly reduced both systolic and diastolic arterial pressures but had no effect on heart rate, atrial effective refractory period (AERP) and conduction velocity for one hour after infusion. Ryanodine, itself, did not exert antivagal activity, so after ryanodine treatment in the presence of VS (8 Hz) the reduction of AERP and the deceleration of heart rate were similar to that in control. These data suggest that ryanodine can suppress the initiation of AF induced by VS but not AF induced by ACh perfusion. We can conclude that the initiation of AF during ACh perfusion unlikely relates to triggering activity induced by intracellular Ca2+ overload. In addition, we suggest that besides ACh some 'unclear' ryanodine sensitive factor(s) contribute to the initiation of AF induced by VS.

Topics: Animals; Atrial Fibrillation; Calcium Channels; Cholinergic Fibers; Disease Models, Animal; Dogs; Electrophysiology; Ryanodine; Ryanodine Receptor Calcium Release Channel; Vagus Nerve

Cardiac hypertrophy is associated with contractile dysfunction, a feature of which is a slowing of the time to reach peak contraction. We have examined the main mechanisms involved in the initiation of contraction and investigated if their functions are changed during cardiac hypertrophy. Cardiac hypertrophy was induced by constriction of the ascending aorta in the rabbit. After 6 weeks left ventricular myocytes were isolated or left ventricular and septal mixed membrane preparations were produced for electrophysiological and radioligand binding studies, respectively. Aortic constriction resulted in a 24% and 23% increase in heart weight to body weight ratio and cell capacitance, respectively. Action potential duration and time-to-reach 50% and 90% peak contraction (TTP(50)and TTP(90), respectively) were significantly prolonged in myocytes from hypertrophied hearts. The prolongation of TTP(50)and TTP(90)could not be explained by altered peak calcium current density or SR calcium content which were unchanged in hypertrophy. Radioligand binding studies performed on tissue preparations from the same hearts, revealed a 34% reduction in ryanodine receptor (RYR) density with no change in dihydropyridine receptor (DHPR) density. This resulted in a reduction in the ratio of RYR to DHPR from 4.4:1 to 3.3:1 in hypertrophy. Ryanodine receptor Ca(2+)-sensitivity was unchanged between sham operated and hypertrophied groups. A reduction in the ratio of RYRs to DHPRs may result in a degree of "functional uncoupling" causing defective release of Ca(2+)from the SR. These findings may underlie the slowed TTP of myocyte contraction in hypertrophy.

Topics: Animals; Antihypertensive Agents; Calcium; Calcium Channel Blockers; Calcium Channels, L-Type; Cells, Cultured; Disease Models, Animal; Electrophysiology; Heart Ventricles; Hypertrophy, Left Ventricular; Isradipine; Myocardial Contraction; Rabbits; Ryanodine; Ryanodine Receptor Calcium Release Channel; Sarcoplasmic Reticulum

Sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR)-mediated Ca(2+) sequestration and release are important determinants of cardiac contractility. In end-stage heart failure SR dysfunction has been proposed to contribute to the impaired cardiac performance. In this study we tested the hypothesis that a targeted interference with SR function can be a primary cause of contractile impairment that in turn might alter cardiac gene expression and induce cardiac hypertrophy. To study this we developed a novel animal model in which ryanodine, a substance that alters SR Ca(2+) release, was added to the drinking water of mice. After 1 wk of treatment, in vivo hemodynamic measurements showed a 28% reduction in the maximum speed of contraction (+dP/dt(max)) and a 24% reduction in the maximum speed of relaxation (-dP/dt(max)). The slowing of cardiac relaxation was confirmed in isolated papillary muscles. The late phase of relaxation expressed as the time from 50% to 90% relaxation was prolonged by 22%. After 4 wk of ryanodine administration the animals had developed a significant cardiac hypertrophy that was most prominent in both atria (right atrium +115%, left atrium +100%, right ventricle +23%, and left ventricle +13%). This was accompanied by molecular changes including a threefold increase in atrial natriuretic factor mRNA and a sixfold increase in beta-myosin heavy chain mRNA. Sarcoplasmic endoplasmic reticulum Ca(2+) mRNA was reduced by 18%. These data suggest that selective impairment of SR function in vivo can induce changes in cardiac gene expression and promote cardiac growth.

Topics: Animals; Atrial Natriuretic Factor; Calcium; Calcium-Transporting ATPases; Cardiomegaly; Cardiotonic Agents; Disease Models, Animal; Gene Expression; Heart Rate; Isoproterenol; Mice; Mice, Inbred Strains; Myocardial Contraction; Myocardium; Myosin Heavy Chains; Nonmuscle Myosin Type IIB; Organ Size; Ryanodine; Sarcoplasmic Reticulum; Sarcoplasmic Reticulum Calcium-Transporting ATPases

Studies have shown that evoked calcium release from sarcoplasmic reticulum is compromised in diabetic rat hearts. The present study was undertaken to determine whether this decrease might be ascribed to a reduction in expression and/or alteration in function of ryanodine receptor (RyR2) and whether changes could be minimized with insulin treatment. Hearts were isolated from 4- and 6-week streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic, 4-week diabetic/2-week insulin-treated, and age-matched control rats. RyR2 mRNA and protein levels were determined using reverse transcription-polymerase chain reactions and polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, respectively, whereas the functional integrity of RyR2 was assessed from their ability to bind [3H]ryanodine. RyR2 protein was unchanged with up to 6 weeks of untreated STZ-induced diabetes. Two weeks of insulin treatment initiated after 4 weeks of diabetes increased RyR2 mRNA levels by 42% and RyR2 protein levels by 45 to 61%. At equivalent amounts, RyR2 protein from 4-week STZ-induced diabetic rat hearts bound 9% less [3H]ryanodine than age-matched control rats (74.1 +/- 3.9 versus 67.4 +/- 3.4 fmol/microg RyR2), whereas that from 6-week STZ-diabetic rats bound 36% less than control rats (47.9 +/- 4.8 versus 74.2 +/- 4.5 fmol/microg RyR2, p < 0.05). RyR2 from insulin-treated animals bound significantly less [3H]ryanodine than control rats (65.2 +/- 4.9 fmol/microg RyR2, p < 0.05). Apparent affinity of ryanodine for RyR2 was similar among all groups (K(d) approximately 1.04 +/- 0.08 nM). Because expression did not change significantly but ryanodine binding decreased, these data suggest that the functional integrity of RyR2 is compromised in diabetic rat hearts, and these changes can be attenuated with 2 weeks of insulin treatment.

Topics: Animals; Diabetes Mellitus, Experimental; Disease Models, Animal; Heart; Male; Myocardium; Polymerase Chain Reaction; Radioligand Assay; Rats; Rats, Sprague-Dawley; RNA; Ryanodine; Ryanodine Receptor Calcium Release Channel; Transcription, Genetic; Tritium

In the pathogenesis of cardiac dysfunction in heart failure, a decrease in the activity of the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) Ca(2+)-ATPase is believed to be a major determinant. Here, we report a novel mechanism of cardiac dysfunction revealed by assessing the functional interaction of FK506-binding protein (FKBP12.6) with the cardiac ryanodine receptor (RyR) in a canine model of pacing-induced heart failure.. SR vesicles were isolated from left ventricular muscles (normal and heart failure). The stoichiometry of FKBP12.6 per RyR was significantly decreased in failing SR, as assessed by the ratio of the B(max) values for [(3)H]dihydro-FK506 to those for [(3)H]ryanodine binding. In normal SR, the molar ratio was 3.6 ( approximately 1 FKBP12.6 for each RyR monomer), whereas it was 1.6 in failing SR. In normal SR, FK506 caused a dose-dependent Ca(2+) leak that showed a close parallelism with the conformational change in RyR. In failing SR, a prominent Ca(2+) leak was observed even in the absence of FK506, and FK506 produced little or no further increase in Ca(2+) leak and only a slight conformational change in RyR. The level of protein expression of FKBP12.6 was indeed found to be significantly decreased in failing SR.. An abnormal Ca(2+) leak through the RyR is present in heart failure, and this leak is presumably caused by a partial loss of RyR-bound FKBP12.6 and the resultant conformational change in RyR. This abnormal Ca(2+) leak might possibly cause Ca(2+) overload and consequent diastolic dysfunction, as well as systolic dysfunction.

Topics: Animals; Calcium; Cardiac Output, Low; Disease Models, Animal; Dogs; Female; Male; Pacemaker, Artificial; Protein Conformation; Ryanodine; Ryanodine Receptor Calcium Release Channel; Sarcoplasmic Reticulum; Tacrolimus; Tacrolimus Binding Proteins; Tritium

A microassay is demonstrated for functional characterization of the Ca(2+)-release channel (CRC) of sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) of skeletal muscle using swine with susceptibility to malignant hyperthermia (MH). Diluted muscle homogenates, indo-1 and ratiometric dual-emission spectrofluorometry are used to monitor Ca(2+)-lowering activity in real-time in the presence and absence of ryanodine at exposures that open and close the CRC. Reactions are initiated with 50 microM CaCl2 to raise ionized Ca2+ concentration near 1 microM and MgATP to activate the Ca(2+)-ATPase pump. Oxalate is included to precipitate Ca2+ within the SR. The assay requires less than 30 mg muscle, which may be cryopreserved, and is completed within 20 min of thawing the tissue. Maximum SR Ca(2+)-ATPase pumping and CRC activities, degree of CRC activation, and Ca(2+)-buffering capacity can be determined. Using this assay we studied muscle from MH-susceptible swine and demonstrated that whereas maximal Ca(2+)-ATPase pumping and CRC activities are normal, the CRC activity after addition of a bolus of Ca2+ is 50% greater in heterozygotes and 100% greater in homozygotes for the MH mutation. Hypersensitivity to CRC agonists, such as caffeine, and an associated hyposensitivity to CRC antagonists such as Mg2+ is also demonstrated. Genotypes for the MH mutation site can be discriminated from each other by determining Ca(2+)-lowering activities and the effect of ryanodine on them.

Topics: Animals; Caffeine; Calcium; Calcium Channels; Calcium-Transporting ATPases; Disease Models, Animal; Disease Susceptibility; Fluorometry; Heterozygote; Magnesium; Malignant Hyperthermia; Muscle, Skeletal; Ryanodine; Sarcoplasmic Reticulum; Sensitivity and Specificity; Swine

By sequestering activator calcium, the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) plays the central role in the excitation-contraction (E-C) cycle of cardiac muscle. Hence, functional changes in the SR in diseased myocardium might critically determine its mechanical characteristics. Previously, we demonstrated that both Ca2+ release and uptake were increased in SR isolated from hearts showing compensatory left ventricular (LV) hypertrophy taken from pressure-overloaded rats. However, it has not been elucidated whether such alterations also occur in the volume-overloaded myocardium. Rats in which volume-overloaded hypertrophy had been induced by aortocaval shunt 12 weeks prior to the investigation were compared to sham-operated controls in terms of SR Ca2+ uptake and release, and density of Ca2+ releasing channels (ryanodine receptors, RyR). Isometric tension and intracellular Ca2+ transients were also measured using the bioluminescent Ca2+ indicator, aequorin, in isolated LV papillary muscles. The extent of hypertrophy was verified by measuring the ratio of biventricular weight to body weight. In vivo, the aortocaval shunt rats showed normal LV contractility and slightly depressed LV relaxation, indicating a compensatory (adaptive) stage of LV function. In contrast, Ca2+ release, uptake, and maximal number of [3H]-ryanodine binding sites were all significantly lower in aortocaval shunt rats than in controls. Both the Ca2+ transients and isometric relaxation of the isolated myocardium were significantly prolonged in aortocaval shunt rats, though their amplitudes were similar in the two groups. Thus, the volume-overloaded cardiac hypertrophy, even at its hemodynamically compensatory (adaptive) stage, (i) was accompanied by abnormal Ca2+ handling, as indicated by prolonged intracellular Ca2+ transients and isometric tension traces, (ii) seems to involve subcellular mechanisms related to decreases in SR Ca2+ release and uptake functions, as well as to a decrease in the number of RyR. Therefore, changes in the intracellular processes underlying cardiac E-C coupling, including SR function, precede the development of this type of heart disease.

Topics: Animals; Aorta; Arteriovenous Shunt, Surgical; Biological Transport; Calcium; Cardiomegaly; Disease Models, Animal; Hemodynamics; Isometric Contraction; Male; Microsomes; Rats; Rats, Wistar; Ryanodine; Sarcoplasmic Reticulum

We tested our hypothesis that the O2 wasting of Ca2+ handling in the excitation-contraction (E-C) coupling in ryanodine-treated failing hearts could be reflected by a decrease in the internal Ca2+ recirculation fraction (RF). We have reported, using canine excised cross-circulated hearts, that intracoronary ryanodine (40 nmol/l blood) halved left ventricular contractility without decreasing myocardial O2 consumption for the E-C coupling. We previously suspected this mechanoenergetic state to manifest energy wasting of Ca2+ handling due to ryanodine causing leakage of Ca2+ from the sarcoplasmic reticulum. To test this hypothesis, we analyzed all the sporadic spontaneous cases of postextrasystolic potentiation (PESP) obtained during the ryanodine experiments. We calculated RF from the beat constant of the exponential decay component of not only the monotonic type but also the transient alternans type of PESP. Results showed that ryanodine significantly decreased the beat constant in both types of PESP from about 2 to 1.5 beats and hence RF from 0.6 to 0.5 on the average, supporting the hypothesis. This organ-level systems approach to Ca2+ handling using transient alternans PESP as well as monotonic PESP may help obtain better insights into the mechanoenergetics of failing hearts.

Topics: Animals; Calcium; Disease Models, Animal; Dogs; Electrocardiography; Female; Heart; Heart Failure; Male; Myocardial Contraction; Oxygen Consumption; Ryanodine; Sarcoplasmic Reticulum

Ryanodine, a specific blocker of the Ca2+ release channel of the sarcoplasmic reticulum, and flunarizine, a [Ca2+]i overload blocker, possess antiarrhythmic effects against delayed afterdepolarizations (DADs) and DAD-dependent arrhythmias. In vitro controversy exists about their effect on early after-depolarizations (EADs): no effect was reported on cesium-induced EADs, while ryanodine did prevent EADs induced by isoproterenol. To study the possible role of intracellular Ca2+ overload in acquired EAD-dependent torsades de pointes (TdP) arrhythmias, we tested the effects of flunarizine and ryanodine in our animal model of TdP.. Anaesthetized dogs with chronic AV block received d-sotalol or almokalant followed by pacing. A subset of dogs with reproducible TdP (> or = 3 times) were selected to receive flunarizine (2 mg/kg per 2 min) or ryanodine (10 micrograms/kg per 10 min). After d-sotalol, TdP was induced at a mean cycle length of the idioventricular rhythm (CL-IVR) of 2070 +/- 635 msec and a QT(U) interval of 535 +/- 65 msec. Induction of TdP was prevented by flunarizine in all experiments (8/8): electrophysiologically this was associated with a decrease in CL-IVR, QT(U), and QTc interval (390 +/- 100 to 320 +/- 45, P < 0.05). Ryanodine prevented TdP induction in 4 of 5 experiments and decreased the CL-IVR, QT(U), and the QTc interval from 385 +/- 75 to 320 +/- 20 msec (P < 0.05). Both drugs also suppressed the almokalant-induced EADs and related ectopic activity. This antiarrhythmic action corresponded with the inability to reinduce TdP by pacing.. Blockade of the Ca2+ release channel of the sarcoplasmic reticulum by ryanodine or the reduction of [Ca2+]i overload by flunarizine prevents induction of EAD-dependent acquired TdP arrhythmias, suggesting a role for [Ca2+]i overload in acquired TdP.

Topics: Action Potentials; Animals; Anti-Arrhythmia Agents; Calcium Channels; Disease Models, Animal; Dogs; Female; Flunarizine; Heart; Isoproterenol; Male; Propanolamines; Ryanodine; Sarcoplasmic Reticulum; Sotalol; Time Factors; Torsades de Pointes

In a model of heart failure induced in rabbits by a double volume plus pressure overload, sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) function was measured by Ca uptake and ryanodine receptor analysis. When expressed per mg of proteins, Ca uptake was decreased by 20% in failing hearts (FH) and ryanodine receptor density was similar in control hearts (CH) and in FH. However Ca uptake and ryanodine receptor density were significantly increased when expressed per total left ventricle suggesting SR hypertrophy. On electron microscopic examination, SR morphology not directly examined but large hypertrophied T tubules were observed suggesting a change in the relationship between membranes and contractile apparatus which may lead to alterations in excitation-contraction-relaxation coupling in spite of minimal biochemical alterations of SR.

Topics: Animals; Calcium; Disease Models, Animal; Female; Heart Failure; Myocardium; Rabbits; Ryanodine; Sarcoplasmic Reticulum

The Bio 14.6 Cardiomyopathic Syrian Hamster (CMH) has an autosomal recessive disease characterized by intracellular calcium overload, cardiac and skeletal myopathies and premature death from congestive heart failure. Early treatment of these animals with the calcium antagonist, verapamil (V), prevents the development of the disease. We have previously provided evidence supporting a specific defect in the ryanodine-sensitive SR calcium release channel (SRCRC) in CMH. We now provide physiologic and biochemical evidence that V modulates SRCRC. Papillary muscles prepared from F1B control hamsters (F1B) revealed an enhanced inotropic responsiveness to V and ryanodine (R) with age, not seen with CMH. CMH papillary muscles demonstrated paradoxical positive inotropic effects of V and R not shared with F1B. The positive inotropic effects of V and R were not additive. V enhanced the affinity (decreased KD) of [3H]ryanodine binding to cardiac membranes. Thus, V may prevent the overt manifestations of genetic disease in CMH by modulating a defective ryanodine-sensitive SR release channel.

Topics: Animals; Calcium; Calcium Channels; Cardiomyopathy, Dilated; Cardiotonic Agents; Cricetinae; Disease Models, Animal; In Vitro Techniques; Kinetics; Mesocricetus; Myocardial Contraction; Papillary Muscles; Rabbits; Radioligand Assay; Ryanodine; Sarcoplasmic Reticulum; Sensitivity and Specificity; Stimulation, Chemical; Tritium; Verapamil

Junctional SR membrane vesicles have been isolated from chronically failing human hearts explanted at transplant operations. Vesicles have been incorporated into artificial planar phospholipid bilayers and the activity of single calcium-release channels investigated under voltage-clamp conditions. The properties of these channels are similar to those previously reported from normal animal tissue and do not provide evidence that the function of individual calcium-release channels is altered in the failing heart. Using radio-labelled ryanodine binding as a specific marker for the calcium-release channel, we demonstrate that, in the sheep heart, ischaemia results in the degradation of the calcium-release channel. The activation of proteases and oxidant stress in the ischaemic and re-perfused post-ischaemic myocardium are likely mediators of cell injury. Using the protease trypsin and the photosensitisation of rose bengal to generate the reactive oxygen species (ROS) singlet oxygen and superoxide radicals we demonstrate a direct effect on the calcium-release channel in vitro. Exposure of junctional SR vesicles to trypsin or oxidant stress resulted in the progressive loss of specific ryanodine binding and the degradation of high molecular weight proteins identified by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. The activity of single channels was also modified during exposure to proteolysis or oxidant stress; an initial increase in channel opening was observed followed by irreversible loss of channel function. Degradation of specific proteins, such as the calcium-release channel, may contribute to contractile dysfunction in the ischaemic and reperfused post-ischaemic myocardium.

Topics: Adult; Aged; Animals; Calcium Channels; Coronary Disease; Disease Models, Animal; Endopeptidases; Enzyme Activation; Heart Failure; Humans; Middle Aged; Reperfusion Injury; Ryanodine; Sarcoplasmic Reticulum; Sheep; Superoxides

Ryanodine toxicity in animals has been suggested to constitute a model of malignant hyperthermia. Dantrolene is known to block the development of malignant hyperthermia triggered by halothane in susceptible swine. The authors studied the influences of dantrolene and halothane on the effects of ryanodine in vitro in isolated rat diaphragm muscle segments, and in vivo in mice, to explore the validity of this model. In the diaphragm experiments, dantrolene was found to block or delay the development of contractures produced by ryanodine and to delay the potentiation of ryanodine-induced contractures caused by halothane. In mice, ryanodine at various dosages was injected and animals surviving after one hour were examined. Such survivors appeared grossly to be normal, and may constitute a model for the malignant hyperthermia patient. They were found to be susceptible to halothane and to succinylcholine, being killed by treatment with these two agents at dosages that were not lethal to control mice. Pretreatment of mice for 48 hours with orally administered dantrolene, followed by injection of ryanodine and then halothane anesthesia, decreased the lethality of ryanodine but did not reduce the number of deaths caused by the subsequent exposure to halothane. That the effects of ryanodine in vitro and in vivo are diminished and potentiated by dantrolene and halothane, respectively, would suggest that the ryanodine toxicity model of malignant hyperthermia may have validity and is worthy of further study. A prediction from this model is that the terminal cisternae of skeletal muscle sarcoplasmic reticulum may be altered in MH.

Topics: Alkaloids; Animals; Dantrolene; Diaphragm; Disease Models, Animal; Halothane; In Vitro Techniques; Male; Malignant Hyperthermia; Mice; Rats; Ryanodine; Succinylcholine