TMEM16A knockdown abrogates two different Ca2+-activated Cl− currents and contractility of smooth muscle in rat mesenteric small arteries

The presence of Ca2+-activated Cl− channels (CaCCs) in vascular smooth muscle cells (SMCs) is well established. Their molecular identity is, however, elusive. Two distinct Ca2+-activated Cl− currents (ICl(Ca)) were previously characterized in SMCs. We have shown that the cGMP-dependent ICl(Ca) depends on bestrophin expression, while the “classical” ICl(Ca) is not. Downregulation of bestrophins did not affect arterial contraction but inhibited the rhythmic contractions, vasomotion. In this study, we have used in vivo siRNA transfection of rat mesenteric small arteries to investigate the role of a putative CaCC, TMEM16A. Isometric force, [Ca2+]i, and SMC membrane potential were measured in isolated arterial segments. ICl(Ca) and GTPγS-induced nonselective cation current were measured in isolated SMCs. Downregulation of TMEM16A resulted in inhibition of both the cGMP-dependent ICl(Ca) and the “classical” ICl(Ca) in SMCs. TMEM16A downregulation also reduced expression of bestrophins. TMEM16A downregulation suppressed vasomotion both in vivo and in vitro. Downregulation of TMEM16A reduced agonist (noradrenaline and vasopressin) and K+-induced contractions. In accordance with the depolarizing role of CaCCs, TMEM16A downregulation suppressed agonist-induced depolarization and elevation in [Ca2+]i. Surprisingly, K+-induced depolarization was unchanged but Ca2+ entry was reduced. We suggested that this is due to reduced expression of the L-type Ca2+ channels, as observed at the mRNA level. Thus, the importance of TMEM16A for contraction is, at least in part, independent from membrane potential. This study demonstrates the significance of TMEM16A for two SMCs ICl(Ca) and vascular function and suggests an interaction between TMEM16A and L-type Ca2+ channels.