Probing the Proton-Gated ASIC Channels Using Tetraalkylammonium Ions

The action of tetraalkylammonium ions, from tetrametylammonium (TMA) to tetrapentylammonium (TPtA), on the recombinant and native acid-sensing ion channels (ASICs) was studied using the patch-clamp approach. The responses of ASIC1a, ASIC2a, and native heteromeric ASICs were inhibited by TPtA. The peak currents through ASIC3 were unaffected, whereas the steady-state currents were significantly potentiated. This effect was characterized by an EC(50) value of 1.22 ± 0.12 mM and a maximal effect of 3.2 ± 0.5. The effects of TPtA were voltage-independent but significantly decreased under conditions of strong acidification, which caused saturation of ASIC responses. Molecular modeling predicted TPtA binding in the acidic pocket of closed ASICs. Bound TPtA can prevent acidic pocket collapse through a process involving ASIC activation and desensitization. Tetraethylammonium (TEA) inhibited ASIC1a and native ASICs. The effect was independent of the activating pH but decreased with depolarization, suggesting a pore-blocking mechanism.