HIV GP120 protein increases the function of connexin 43 hemichannels and pannexin-1 channels in astrocytes: Repercussions on astroglial function

Rosario Gajardo-Gómez, Cristian A. Santibañez, Valeria C. Labra, Gonzalo I. Gómez, Eliseo A. Eugenin, Juan A. Orellana

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

22 Scopus citations

Abstract

At least half of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected individuals suffer from a wide range of cognitive, behavioral and motor deficits, collectively known as HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders (HAND). The molecular mechanisms that amplify damage within the brain of HIV-infected individuals are unknown. Recently, we described that HIV augments the opening of connexin-43 (Cx43) hemichannels in cultured human astrocytes, which result in the collapse of neuronal processes. Whether HIV soluble viral proteins such as gp120, can regulate hemichannel opening in astrocytes is still ignored. These channels communicate the cytosol with the extracellular space during pathological conditions. We found that gp120 enhances the function of both Cx43 hemichannels and pannexin-1 channels in mouse cortical astrocytes. These effects depended on the activation of IL-1β/TNF-α, p38 MAP kinase, iNOS, cytoplasmic Ca2+ and purinergic signaling. The gp120-induced channel opening resulted in alterations in Ca2+ dynamics, nitric oxide production and ATP release. Although the channel opening evoked by gp120 in astrocytes was reproduced in ex vivo brain preparations, these responses were heterogeneous depending on the CA1 region analyzed. We speculate that soluble gp120-induced activation of astroglial Cx43 hemichannels and pannexin-1 channels could be crucial for the pathogenesis of HAND.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Article number2503
JournalInternational journal of molecular sciences
Volume21
Issue number7
DOIs
StatePublished - Apr 2020

Keywords

  • Astrocyte
  • Connexins
  • Cx43 hemichannels
  • Glia
  • Gp120
  • HIV

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Catalysis
  • Molecular Biology
  • Spectroscopy
  • Computer Science Applications
  • Physical and Theoretical Chemistry
  • Organic Chemistry
  • Inorganic Chemistry

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'HIV GP120 protein increases the function of connexin 43 hemichannels and pannexin-1 channels in astrocytes: Repercussions on astroglial function'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this