Rim1 modulates direct G-protein regulation of Ca(v)2.2 channels

Pflugers Arch. 2011 Apr;461(4):447-59. doi: 10.1007/s00424-011-0926-5. Epub 2011 Feb 18.

Abstract

Regulation of presynaptic voltage-gated calcium channels is critical for depolarization-evoked neurotransmitter release. Various studies attempted to determine the functional implication of Rim1, a component of the vesicle release machinery. Besides to couple voltage-gated Ca(2+) channels to the presynaptic vesicle release machinery, it was evidenced that Rim1 also prevents voltage-dependent inactivation of the channels through a direct interaction with the ancillary β-subunits, thus facilitating neurotransmitter release. However, facilitation of synaptic activity may also be caused by a reduction of the inhibitory pathway carried by G-protein-coupled receptors. Here, we explored the functional implication of Rim1 in G-protein regulation of Ca(v)2.2 channels. Activation of μ-opioid receptors expressed in HEK-293 cells along with Ca(v)2.2 channels produced a drastic current inhibition both in control and Rim1-expressing cells. In contrast, Rim1 considerably promoted the extent of current deinhibition following channel activation, favoring sustained Ca(2+) influx under prolonged activity. Our data suggest that Rim1-induced facilitation of neurotransmitter release may come as a consequence of a decrease in the inhibitory pathway carried by G-proteins that contributes, together with the slowing of channel inactivation, to maintain Ca(2+) influx under prolonged activity. The present study also furthers functional insights in the importance of proteins from the presynaptic vesicle complex in the regulation of voltage-gated Ca(2+) channels by G-proteins.

MeSH terms

  • Calcium Channels, N-Type / physiology*
  • GTP-Binding Proteins / physiology*
  • HEK293 Cells
  • Humans
  • Nerve Tissue Proteins / physiology*
  • Neurotransmitter Agents / metabolism
  • Patch-Clamp Techniques
  • Presynaptic Terminals / metabolism

Substances

  • CACNA1B protein, human
  • Calcium Channels, N-Type
  • Nerve Tissue Proteins
  • Neurotransmitter Agents
  • RIMS1 protein, human
  • GTP-Binding Proteins