The cell-wide web coordinates cellular processes by directing site-specific Ca2+ flux across cytoplasmic nanocourses

Nat Commun. 2019 May 24;10(1):2299. doi: 10.1038/s41467-019-10055-w.

Abstract

Ca2+ coordinates diverse cellular processes, yet how function-specific signals arise is enigmatic. We describe a cell-wide network of distinct cytoplasmic nanocourses with the nucleus at its centre, demarcated by sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) junctions (≤400 nm across) that restrict Ca2+ diffusion and by nanocourse-specific Ca2+-pumps that facilitate signal segregation. Ryanodine receptor subtype 1 (RyR1) supports relaxation of arterial myocytes by unloading Ca2+ into peripheral nanocourses delimited by plasmalemma-SR junctions, fed by sarco/endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ ATPase 2b (SERCA2b). Conversely, stimulus-specified increases in Ca2+ flux through RyR2/3 clusters selects for rapid propagation of Ca2+ signals throughout deeper extraperinuclear nanocourses and thus myocyte contraction. Nuclear envelope invaginations incorporating SERCA1 in their outer nuclear membranes demarcate further diverse networks of cytoplasmic nanocourses that receive Ca2+ signals through discrete RyR1 clusters, impacting gene expression through epigenetic marks segregated by their associated invaginations. Critically, this circuit is not hardwired and remodels for different outputs during cell proliferation.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Video-Audio Media

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Calcium Signaling / physiology*
  • Cell Membrane / metabolism
  • Cell Proliferation / physiology
  • Cells, Cultured
  • Cytosol / metabolism*
  • Male
  • Muscle Cells / physiology
  • Muscle Contraction / physiology
  • Muscle, Skeletal / cytology
  • Muscle, Skeletal / physiology
  • Nuclear Envelope / metabolism
  • Primary Cell Culture
  • Rats
  • Rats, Sprague-Dawley
  • Ryanodine Receptor Calcium Release Channel / metabolism
  • Sarcoplasmic Reticulum / metabolism
  • Sarcoplasmic Reticulum Calcium-Transporting ATPases / metabolism

Substances

  • Atp2a2 protein, rat
  • Ryanodine Receptor Calcium Release Channel
  • Sarcoplasmic Reticulum Calcium-Transporting ATPases