A genetically encoded actuator boosts L-type calcium channel function in diverse physiological settings

Sci Adv. 2024 Nov;10(44):eadq3374. doi: 10.1126/sciadv.adq3374. Epub 2024 Oct 30.

Abstract

L-type Ca2+ channels (CaV1.2/1.3) convey influx of calcium ions that orchestrate a bevy of biological responses including muscle contraction, neuronal function, and gene transcription. Deficits in CaV1 function play a vital role in cardiac and neurodevelopmental disorders. Here, we develop a genetically encoded enhancer of CaV1.2/1.3 channels (GeeCL) to manipulate Ca2+ entry in distinct physiological settings. We functionalized a nanobody that targets the CaV complex by attaching a minimal effector domain from an endogenous CaV modulator-leucine-rich repeat containing protein 10 (Lrrc10). In cardiomyocytes, GeeCL selectively increased L-type current amplitude. In neurons in vitro and in vivo, GeeCL augmented excitation-transcription (E-T) coupling. In all, GeeCL represents a powerful strategy to boost CaV1.2/1.3 function and lays the groundwork to illuminate insights on neuronal and cardiac physiology and disease.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Calcium / metabolism
  • Calcium Channels, L-Type* / genetics
  • Calcium Channels, L-Type* / metabolism
  • HEK293 Cells
  • Humans
  • Mice
  • Myocytes, Cardiac* / metabolism
  • Neurons / metabolism

Substances

  • Calcium Channels, L-Type
  • Calcium