JNK2, A Newly-Identified SERCA2 Enhancer, Augments an Arrhythmic [Ca
2+
]
SR
Leak-Load Relationship
Rationale: We recently discovered pivotal contributions of stress kinase JNK2 in increased risk of atrial fibrillation (AF) through enhanced diastolic sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) Ca 2+ leak via ryanodine receptors (RyR2). However, the role of JNK2 in the function of the SR Ca 2+ -ATPase (SERCA2), essential in maintaining [Ca 2+ ] SR cycling during each heartbeat, is completely unknown. Objective: To test the hypothesis that JNK2 increases SERCA2 activity [Ca 2+ ] SR and exacerbates an arrhythmic [Ca 2+ ] SR leak-load relationship. Methods and Results: We used confocal Ca 2+ imaging in myocytes and HEK cells, biochemistry, dual Ca 2+ /voltage optical mapping in intact hearts from alcohol-exposed or aged mice (where JNK2 is activated). We found that JNK2, but not JNK1, increased SERCA2 uptake and consequently elevated [Ca 2+ ]SR load. JNK2 also associates with and phosphorylates SERCA2 proteins. JNK2 causally enhances SERCA2-ATPase activity via increased Vmax, without altering Ca 2+ affinity (Km). Unlike the CaMKII-dependent JNK2 action in SR Ca 2+ leak, JNK2-driven SERCA2 function was CaMKII-independent (not prevented by CaMKII inhibition). With CaMKII blocked, the JNK2-driven SR Ca 2+ loading alone did not significantly raise leak. However, with JNK2-CaMKII-driven SR Ca 2+ leak present, the JNK2-enhanced SR Ca 2+ uptake limited leak-induced reduction in SR Ca 2+ , normalizing Ca 2+ transient amplitude, but at a higher arrhythmogenic SR Ca 2+ leak. JNK2-specific inhibition completely normalized SR Ca 2+ handling, attenuated arrhythmic Ca 2+ activities, and alleviated AF susceptibility in aged and alcohol-exposed myocytes and intact hearts. Conclusions: We have identified a novel JNK2-induced activation of SERCA2. The dual-action of JNK2 in CaMKII-dependent arrhythmic SR Ca 2+ leak and a CaMKII-independent uptake exacerbates atrial arrhythmogenicity, while helping to maintain normal levels of Ca 2+ transients and heart function. JNK2 modulation may be a novel therapeutic target for AF prevention and treatment.