Hv1 channel supports insulin secretion in pancreatic β cells through calcium entry, depolarization and intracellular pH regulation

Here, we demonstrate that the voltage-gated proton channel Hv1 represents a regulatory mechanism for insulin secretion of pancreatic islet {beta} cell. In vivo, Hv1-de[fi]cient mice display hyperglycemia and glucose intolerance due to reduced insulin secretion, but normal peripheral insulin sensitivity. In vitro, islets of Hv1-de[fi]cient and heterozygous mice, INS-1 (832/13) cells with siRNA-mediated knockdown of Hv1 exhibit a marked defect in glucose- and K+-induced insulin secretion. Hv1 de[fi]ciency decreases both insulin and proinsulin contents, and limits glucose-induced Ca2+ entry and membrane depolarization. Furthermore, loss of Hv1 increases insulin-containing granular pH and decreases cytosolic pH. In addition, histologic studies show a decrease in {beta} cell mass in islets of Hv1-deficient mice. Collectively, our results indicate that Hv1 supports insulin secretion in the {beta} cell by calcium entry, membrane depolarization and intracellular pH regulation.