Instability of KCNE1-D85N that causes long QT syndrome: stabilization by verapamil

Background: A KCNE1 polymorphism, D85N, causes long QT syndrome (LQTS) with a decrease in the slowly activating delayed-rectifier K(+) channel current (IKs ). We examined impacts of D85N polymorphism on KCNE1 protein stability and functions, and tested the ability of various drugs to modify them.

Methods: KCNE1-D85N or the wild-type protein was coexpressed in COS7 cells with KCNQ1 to form K(+) channels. Expression, degradation, and intracellular localization of KCNE1 proteins, as well as the currents conferred by KCNQ1/KCNE1 complexes, were determined using immunoblots, immunofluorescence, and patch-clamp techniques.

Results: The protein level of KCNE1-D85N was lower than that of the wild-type, in spite of the comparable levels of their mRNA. KCNE1-D85N was highly ubiquitinated and rapidly degraded as compared to the wild-type; a proteasome inhibitor, MG132, inhibited its degradation and increased its steady-state level. Both KCNE1-D85N and the wild-type proteins were co-immunoprecipitated with KCNQ1. Immunofluorescent signals of KCNE1-D85N accumulated in the endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi apparatus, with reduced levels on the cell membrane. Patch-clamp experiments demonstrated that the membrane current corresponding to IKs was much smaller in cells expressing KCNE1-D85N than in those expressing the wild-type. Verapamil (0.5-10 μM) increased the protein level of KCNE1-D85N, decreased its ubiquitination, slowed its degradation, and enhanced KCNQ1/KCNE1-D85N channel currents. Pretreatment with amiodarone abolished these effects of verapamil.

Conclusion: KCNE1-D85N is less stable than the wild-type protein, and is rapidly degraded through the ubiquitin-proteasome system. Verapamil may be of a therapeutic value in LQTS patients via preventing degradation of KCNE1-D85N.