Metabolism of platelet-activating factor by rat alveolar macrophages: lyso-PAF as an obligatory intermediate in the formation of alkylarachidonoyl glycerophosphocholine species

1-Alkyl-2-acetyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (alkylacetyl-GPC; platelet-activating factor; PAF) is actively taken up and metabolized by rat alveolar macrophages maintained in culture. The major metabolic products are lyso-PAF (alkyllyso-GPC) and alkylacyl-GPC. Lyso-PAF accumulates primarily in the media, whereas alkylacyl-GPC is predominantly associated with cellular lipids. The addition of unlabeled lyso-PAF to incubations initiated with [3H]PAF results in an increase in the amount of lyso-[3H]PAF product formed and a decrease in the final product, [3H]alkylacyl-GPC; however, the total amount of [3H]PAF metabolized remains unchanged. Unlabeled lyso-PAF thus enters the metabolic pool of the cell and competes with the deacetylated product of [3H]PAF, i.e., lyso-PAF, for acylation. High-performance liquid chromatography demonstrated that the reacylated product derived from lyso-PAF consisted primarily of the arachidonoyl-containing species that exists as the 16:0-20:4 molecular species. These results document that PAF is inactivated in rat alveolar macrophages via a deacetylation-reacylation reaction with lyso-PAF as an obligatory intermediate. The sequestering of arachidonic acid into the PAF precursor pool and the substantial amount of lyso-PAF secreted by macrophages into the extracellular fluid appear to be significant events in the inactivation process.

Structural analogs of alkylacetylglycerophosphocholine inhibitory behavior on platelet activation

Several analogs of alkylacetylglycerophosphocholine (AGEPC; platelet-activating factor) were investigated as potential selective inhibitors of AGEPC-induced activation of washed rabbit platelets. Two particular compounds, CV-3988 (rac-3-(N-n-octadecylcarbamoyloxy)-2-methoxypropyl-2-thiazolioethyl++ + phosphate) and U66985 (1-O-octadecyl-2-acetyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphoric acid-6'-trimethylammonium-hexyl ester) emerged as particularly active and effective inhibitors. Aggregation and secretion profiles, as well as the degradation of inositol phospholipids and production of phosphatidic acid, were used as monitors of their inhibitory capabilities. U66985 was the most effective inhibitor, giving an IC50 value of 4.1 +/- 1.5 X 10(-8) M against a challenge of 1 X 10(-10) M AGEPC in the secretion assay. Phospholipid turnover was blocked completely at this inhibitor concentration. On the other hand, while CV-3988 was an effective inhibitor, a higher concentration was required and a more restricted range of activity was noted with an IC50 value of 5.9 +/- 1.3 X 10(-7) M against a challenge of 1 X 10(-10) M AGEPC in the secretion assay. While CV-3988 did indeed completely block the turnover of inositol phospholipids and phosphatidic acid formation, these effects were noted at a higher concentration than with U66985. On the basis of data obtained in desensitization experiments with AGEPC and U66985, it appears that each inhibitor occupies the same receptor site as the agonist, AGEPC. These results illustrate the usefulness of these AGEPC analogs in exploring the biochemical characteristics of the interaction of AGEPC with a cell.

Kinetics of acetyl glyceryl ether phosphorylcholine (AGEPC)-induced acute lung alterations in the rabbit

Acetyl glyceryl ether phosphorylcholine (AGEPC; 1-O-hexadecyl-2-acetyl-sn-glyceryl-3-phosphorylcholine) was infused intravenously into rabbits (0.5 micrograms/kg); subsequently, temporal pulmonary alterations were assessed histologically. Within 30 seconds after AGEPC infusion, widespread platelet and neutrophil aggregates were distributed throughout the pulmonary microvasculature. Concomitantly, small muscular arteries and bronchioles throughout the lungs were contracted. Five minutes after AGEPC infusion, intravascular pulmonary platelet aggregates were less frequent and smaller than those observed at 30 seconds after infusion; however, AGEPC-induced pulmonary neutrophil sequestration persisted. Moreover, at this time, large mononucleated cells and damaged endothelial cells were prevalent throughout the pulmonary microvasculature. Sixty minutes after infusion, neither platelet aggregates nor arterial or bronchiolar constriction was observed. However, in most animals, neutrophils and large mononucleated cells were still abundant, and focal endothelial cell alterations persisted. In addition, discrete areas of interstitial hemorrhage around small and medium-sized arteries were present. These studies suggest that the intravascular release of AGEPC could initiate significant pulmonary injury and therefore could be an important etiologic factor in the development of inflammatory lung diseases.

Analogues of platelet activating factor. 3. Replacement of the phosphate moiety with a sulfonylbismethylene group

An analogue of platelet activating factor (PAF) in which the phosphate moiety has been replaced with a sulfonylbismethylene group has been prepared. A key step in the synthetic sequence is the preparation of 4-[[3-(dimethylamino)propyl]thio]-1-(hexadecyloxy)-2-butanol via a one-pot reaction involving a sequential Michael addition and reduction. In comparison to racemic C16-PAF, 8 showed no platelet aggregating activity and substantially reduced hypotensive activity.

Analogues of platelet activating factor (PAF). 2. Some modifications of the glycerine backbone

Racemic analogues of platelet activating factor (PAF) that contain a methylene group between the C2 and C3 carbon atoms (39) or between the C1 and C2 carbon atoms (40) have been synthesized. These compounds show reduced platelet aggregation and hypotensive activity as measured against racemic C16 PAF. Compounds in which the C1 carbon atom of PAF is substituted with one or two methyl groups (41 and 42, respectively) or the C3 carbon is substituted with a single methyl group (43) have been synthesized. Platelet aggregation and hypotensive responses produced by these compounds are significantly less than those obtained with racemic C16 PAF. None of the above compounds exhibit a separation of the platelet aggregation and hypotensive activities.

Cardiac output and peripheral vascular resistance during intravenous infusion of 1-hexadecyl-2-acetyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine in conscious normotensive and spontaneously hypertensive rats

Cardiovascular responses to intravenous 1-hexadecyl-2-acetyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (56 and 112 pmoles/kg/min) were examined in conscious Wistar-Kyoto (WKY) normotensive rats and spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) instrumented with arterial and venous catheters, and an electromagnetic flow probe around the ascending aorta. The results suggest that this compound reduces mean blood pressure via a dose related fall in peripheral vascular resistance and cardiac index in conscious SHR and WKY rats.

A possible role of antihypertensive polar renomedullary lipid (APRL) and prostaglandin E2 in the kidney in the antihypertensive action of pindolol

The influence of the pretreatment with CV-3988, a specific antagonist of antihypertensive polar renomedullary lipid (APRL), and/or indomethacin on the antihypertensive effect of pindolol was examined in order to clarify a possible role of APRL and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) in the kidney in the effect of pindolol in male spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR). CV-3988 effectively attenuated the antihypertensive effect of pindolol, although pindolol still significantly lowered blood pressure following CV-3988 treatment. Besides, the pretreatment with CV-3988 showed no significant effect on an increased PGE2 level and a decreased volume of urine after pindolol treatment. The antihypertensive effect of pindolol disappeared after the CV-3988 treatment in combination with indomethacin.

The release of lyso-PAF from guinea-pig lungs

Lyso-PAF was detected after ionophore challenge in the effluent of lungs of guinea-pigs exposed to oxygen and perfused through the pulmonary circulation as well as of control lungs perfused through the airways. Lyso-PAF is probably the inactive metabolite of PAF-acether which could not, itself, be detected in the lung effluents.

Evidence for production of 1-acyl-2-acetyl-sn-glyceryl-3-phosphorylcholine concomitantly with platelet-activating factor

The presence of 1-acyl-2-acetyl-sn-glyceryl-3-phosphorylcholine in a sample of platelet-activating factor from stimulated rabbit neutrophils was demonstrated by a gas-liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry technique coupled with selected ion monitoring. The ions chosen for identification were those of acetyl and long-chain acyl moieties and molecular weight. Species containing palmitic, oleic and stearic acids were detected. A good correlation was observed between the productions of 1-acyl-2-acetyl-sn-glyceryl-3-phosphorylcholine and 1-alkyl-2-acetyl-sn-glyceryl-3-phosphorylcholine by neutrophils stimulated with ionophore A23187.

Hydrocortisone and 'macrocortin' inhibit the zymosan-induced release of lyso-PAF from rat peritoneal leucocytes

Hydrocortisone and the glucocorticoid-induced anti-phospholipase protein macrocortin, were tested as inhibitors of PAF generation. The steroid produced a dose-dependent inhibition of the release of the PAF precursor 2-lyso-PAF, and this effect was mimicked by affinity-purified macrocortin. Neither agent had any effect on the acetylation of lyso-PAF to PAF. Of other drugs tested only phospholipase inhibitors blocked lyso-PAF release and sulphydryl reagents blocked the acetylation step. It is concluded that glucocorticoids inhibit the generation of PAF and this could be an important component of their anti-anaphylactic and anti-inflammatory action.

CoA-independent transfer of arachidonic acid from 1,2-diacyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine to 1-O-alkyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (lyso platelet-activating factor) by macrophage microsomes

Macrophage microsomes catalyzed the transfer of arachidonic acid (20:4) from 1,2-diacyl-glycerophosphocholine (GPC) to 1-alkyl-GPC (lyso platelet-activating factor). This enzyme reaction did not require the presence of cofactors such as Co A. Free arachidonic acid or linoleic acid-labeled phospholipids failed to act as the acyl donor. These results suggest that the reaction is a CoA-independent direct transfer of arachidonic acid. This arachidonoyl transacylation system may play a very important role in the metabolism of lyso platelet-activating factor and also in the elimination or release of arachidonic acid from diacyl-GPC.

Phospholipid biosynthesis in human platelets. The acylation of lyso-platelet-activating factor

Acyl-CoA:1-alkyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine acyltransferase of human platelets is membrane-bound, has a pH optimum of 7.5, is insensitive to 1 mM-Mg2+, is inhibited by 1 mM-Ca2+, and is stimulated slightly by 1 mM-EDTA. Maximal formation of 1-alkyl-2-acyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine is observed at 150 microM-1-alkyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine and 20 microM unsaturated fatty acyl-CoA. The transfer of unsaturated fatty acyl groups to 1-alkyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine is 3-14 times slower than to 1-acyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine. The CoA esters of linoleate and arachidonate, two unsaturated fatty acyl groups commonly found in platelet phospholipids, are the preferred fatty acyl group donors.

Ether glycerolipids: novel substrates for studying specificity of enzymes involved in glycerolipid biosynthesis in higher plants

Ether glycerolipids, predominantly alkylacylglycerols and alkylacylglycerophosphocholines, are synthesized in photomixotrophic rape (Brassica napus) suspension cells from various exogenous monoalkylglycerols. The stereospecific distribution of acyl moieties was studied in these ether glycerolipids with regard to chain-length and degree of unsaturation of alkyl moieties and compared with the distribution of acyl moieties in the corresponding endogenous acyl glycerolipids. The results show the following: (1) Alkylacylglycerophosphocholines replaced up to one-half of the corresponding physiological membrane lipids, i.e. diacylglycerophosphocholines, without changing the total amount of cholineglycerophospholipids as compared to untreated cells. (2) The composition of acyl moieties in total lipids of rape cells was practically unaltered by fatty acids derived via oxidative cleavage from the various alkyl moieties of either glycerolipids. (3) In 1-O-alkyl-2-acylglycerols derived from exogenous alkylglycerols and in endogenous 1,2-diacylglycerols compositions of acyl moieties were found to be different indicating that different pathways were operative in the biosynthesis of these two neutral glycerolipids. (4) Enzymes involved in synthesizing molecular species of 1-O-alkyl-2-acylglycerophosphocholines or 2-O-alkyl-1-acylglycerophosphocholines as well as 1,2-diacylglycerophosphocholines showed similar specificities with regard to chain-length and degree of unsaturation of both alkyl and corresponding acyl moieties. Thus, ether glycerolipids formed by plant cells from exogenous alkylglycerols are suitable metabolites for studying the specificity of enzymes involved in the biosynthesis of glyerolipids.

Specific binding of [3H]-1-O-octadecyl Paf-acether to washed human platelets

[3H]-Paf-acether binds to washed human platelets in a dose-dependent manner. Scatchard analysis reveals two distinct binding sites; a high affinity site with a KD value of 0.259 +/- 0.33 nM (245 +/- 30 sites per platelet) and a lower affinity site with a KD value of 9.22 +/- 1.17 nM (1616 +/- 165 sites per platelet). Association of 3H-Paf-acether to the high affinity receptor is rapid, being maximal within two minutes and remaining constant for at least twenty minutes. Dissociation from the low affinity receptor is also rapid (t1/2: less than 10s) whereas dissociation from the high affinity site is significantly slower (t1/2 : approximately 70s). [3H]-Paf-acether binding is inhibited by unlabelled (R)-C16-Paf (IC50: 0.08 +/- 0.01 nM) greater than (R)-C18-Paf (0.48 +/- 0.03 nM) greater than (RS)-C18-Paf (1.06 +/- 0.19 nM), but remains unchanged in the presence of lyso-C18-Paf at 3.0-300 nM. [3H]-Paf-acether binding and its inhibition by unlabelled (R)-C18-Paf-acether is independent of buffer Ca2+ within the range 0-5.0 mM.

Facile synthesis of platelet-activating factor and racemic analogues containing unsaturation in the sn-1-alkyl chain

Platelet-activating factor, 1 (PAF, 1-O-hexadecyl-2-acetyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine), and octadecyl-PAF were synthesized chemically as the racemates. The sn-1-O-alkyl isomers were isolated after treatment of the racemates with phospholipase A2 and subsequent reacetylation of the 1-O-alkyl-2-lyso-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholines released. Analogues of PAF containing unsaturated alkyl moieties at the sn-1 position (2, 4, 5) were synthesized by utilizing the methoxyethoxymethyl protecting group as a novel method for preparing unsaturated alkyl lipids. This procedure provides a facile means for preparing unsaturated either phospholipids of defined structure that may be tritiated to high radiospecific activity for metabolic studies. Unsaturation in the alkyl chain had minimal effect on the bioactivities examined in this study.

Pharmacokinetic study of 3H-labelled PAF-acether II. Comparison with 3H-labelled lyso-PAF-acether after intravenous administration in the rabbit and protein binding

The blood and plasma kinetics of intravenously administered 3H-labelled PAF-acether were determined in seven rabbits. PAF-acether was rapidly distributed and slowly eliminated. Individual variations were very small. The main route of metabolism involves deacetylation of the PAF-acether into lyso-PAF-acether, leading to an equilibrium between the two molecules (10%/90%). This equilibrium, observed within 30 minutes, was still the same after 6 hours suggesting in vivo reacetylation of lyso-PAF-acether into PAF-acether. However, this could not be verified. After intravenous administration of lyso-PAF-acether in two rabbits, PAF-acether could not be found in any blood sample. The pharmacokinetic behaviour of both PAF-acether and lyso-PAF-acether can be described by a three-compartment model.

Biosynthesis of platelet-activating factor. VI. Precursor of platelet-activating factor and acetyltransferase activity in isolated rat kidney cells

Isolated glomeruli and tubular and medullary cells obtained from perfused kidneys from Wistar rats were stimulated with ionophore A 23187 (0.5 to 6 microM) or kept overnight at pH 9.5. The amount of platelet-activating factor (Paf-acether) formed was measured in the ethanolic cell extracts using aggregation of washed rabbit platelets. 2-Lyso Paf-acether present in cells was transformed into Paf-acether by chemical acetylation and measured in the same manner as Paf-acether. Microsomes from glomeruli and medullary and tubular cells were prepared, and the acetyltransferase activity was measured. Paf-acether was formed in a dose-dependent fashion by glomeruli and medullary cells, and maximal formation with 3 microM ionophore A 23187 was 1.9 +/- 0.2 and 1.1 +/- 0.2 pmoles/mg of protein, respectively. Paf-acether was not recovered from tubular cells. Three cell types produced large amounts of 2-lyso Paf-acether when incubated at alkaline pH. Only glomeruli generated appreciable quantity of 2-lyso Paf-acether upon ionophore A 23187 stimulation. The acetyltransferase specific activities in ionophore A 23187-stimulated glomeruli and medullary and tubular cells were 3.8 +/- 0.8, 0.3 +/- 0.1, and 0.2 +/- 0.1 nmoles of Paf-acether/10 min/mg of protein, respectively. This study demonstrates the formation of Paf-acether by two distinct populations of kidney cells, pointing out the glomerular cells, besides the already known medullary cells, as capable of forming Paf-acether.

Release of arachidonic acid from 1-alkyl-2-acyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine, a precursor of platelet-activating factor, in rat alveolar macrophages

Platelet activating factor and the bioactive metabolites of arachidonic acid are secreted by alveolar macrophages in response to stimulation by phagocytic agents or calcium ionophore. We have previously shown a deacylation-acetylation sequence in the formation of 1-alkyl-2-acetyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (PAF) from alkylacyl-(long chain)-GPC (Albert, D.H. and Snyder, F. (1983) J. Biol. Chem. 258, 97-102). This sequence may be an important source of 20:4 during inflammatory reactions since, in alveolar macrophages, the ether lipid precursor of PAF represents 35% of the choline glycerophospholipids and has a much higher content (35%) of 20:4 in the sn-2 position than does diacyl-GPC (17%). Alveolar macrophages prelabeled with 14C-labeled fatty acids (16:0, 18:1, 18:2 and 20:4) and [1-3H]alkyllyso-GPC were used to study the release of fatty acids from ether-linked and diacyl phospholipids. Each of these fatty acids was incorporated primarily into the choline glycerophospholipids of alveolar macrophages. The release of 20:4 from macrophage phospholipids was increased by treatment of the labeled cells with the calcium ionophore A23187 (2 microM) or zymosan (1 mg/ml), whereas the release of 16:0, 18:1 and 18:2 was not increased above control levels by either stimuli. Although more of the labeled 20:4 is released from the diacyl-GPC (50% of the total released), substantial amounts (44%) of 20:4 are derived from alkylacyl-GPC after incubating the stimulated cells for 60 min. The loss of 20:4 continued from the diacyl species throughout the incubation period studied, whereas a slower net release of 20:4 lost from the alkylacyl-GPC fraction was evident after 2 h. We conclude that the deacylation-reacylation cycle is an important aspect of the metabolism of 20:4 and alkylacyl-GPC during inflammatory stimulation of alveolar macrophages and that the deacylation of this ether-linked phospholipid (which is the first step in the formation of PAF) is responsible for a significant amount of the 20:4 released.

Acetylcholine-like effects of 1-O-alkyl-2-acetyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine ('platelet-activating factor') and its analogues in exocrine secretory glands

The effect of 1-O-hexadecyl-2-acetyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (1), 1-O-octadecyl-2-acetyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (2) 1-O-hexadecyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (3), 1-O-octadecyl-2-O-methyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (4) and its enantiomer 3-O-octadecyl-2-O-methyl-sn-glycero-1-phosphocholine (5) on the secretion of amylase from guinea pig isolated parotid gland and exocrine pancreatic lobules was examined. Compounds 1, 2 and 4 led to a significant stimulation of amylase release in both systems, effects being already visible between 10-100 pM. Maximal stimulation with compounds 1 and 2 occurred at 5 nM, with compound 4 at 1 nM. Higher concentrations were less effective and at 0.1 microM stimulation was very low. In contrast, compound 5 showed a continuous increase in activity up to 0.01-0.1 microM without a decrease at at higher concentrations. Compound 3 had no effect. For compound 1, its effects on calcium and lipid metabolism have been analyzed and compared with those of the acetylcholine analogue carbamoylcholine. Compound 1 mimicked in every respect the effects of carbamoylcholine. It stimulated the uptake of 45Ca by isolated parotid gland lobules in a non-ionophoretic way. In isolated pancreatic lobules it enhanced the incorporation of [32P]phosphate into phosphatidic acid, phosphatidylinositol and poly(phosphoinositide), increased the formation of diacylglycerols and triacylglycerol, led to the same two-phasic responses of myo-[3H]inositol-labeled polyphosphoinositides, and initiated a rapid short-lasting formation of free inositol triphosphate. Accordingly, 'platelet activating factor(s)' can affect the function of exocrine glands at low concentrations. The effects observed resemble those produced by acetylcholine and result most likely from the interaction of platelet-activating factor with plasma membrane receptors.

Evidence for the lack of interaction between (+/-)-1-O-octadecyl-2-acetylglyceryl-3-phosphorylcholine and alpha-adrenoceptors in vivo and in vitro

The interactions of (+/-)-1-O-octadecyl-2-acetylglyceryl-3-phosphorylcholine (octadecyl-AGPC) with alpha-adrenoceptors were studied in rat mesenteric artery, cat nictitating membrane and on the blood pressure of the cat and spontaneously hypertensive (SH) rat. Using a direct radioligand alpha-adrenoceptor binding assay in particulate fractions of rat mesenteric arteries, octadecyl-AGPC was found to be 5 X 10(7) and 75 times less potent than prazosin and noradrenaline (NA), respectively, in displacing (2,6-dimethoxyphenoxyethyl)-aminomethyl-1,4-benzodioxane ([3H]-WB 4101--a selective probe for the identification of alpha-adrenoceptors). In the cat, intravenous infusions of octadecyl-AGPC, which produce a hypotensive response, did not attenuate nictitating membrane contractions in vivo in response to intravenous injections of NA, adrenaline (Ad) or to electrical stimulation of the postganglionic fibres of the superior cervical ganglion. In these experiments, the pressor responses to NA or Ad were not affected by octadecyl-AGPC. Phentolamine, on the other hand, attenuated nictitating membrane contractions and blood pressure responses to Ad or NA. In the SH rat, octadecyl-AGPC decreased mean arterial blood pressure (MABP). After an intravenous dose of phentolamine which lowered MABP, the depressor response to octadecyl-AGPC was reduced. When MABP in the phentolamine-treated SH rat was restored to its initial level with an infusion of angiotensin II (AII), the depressor response to octadecyl-AGPC was restored to its original magnitude. The effectiveness of alpha-adrenoceptor blockade under these experimental conditions was monitored with intravenous NA and Ad. Thus, based on radioligand binding studies and pharmacological studies, it is concluded that octadecyl-AGPC lacks the ability to interact with alpha-adrenoceptors.

Biosynthesis of Paf-acether (platelet-activating factor). VII. Precursors of Paf-acether and acetyl-transferase activity in human leukocytes

Human polymorphonuclear neutrophils, monocytes, and lymphocytes were studied for their ability to synthesize Paf-acether when stimulated with the ionophore A 23187 (Io) or with specific secretagogues. When stimulated with Io, neutrophils produced 100 +/- 8.5 pmol Paf-acether 1 X 10(6) cells (mean +/- 1 SD, n = 5); monocytes were less efficient (44 +/- 3.3 pmol Paf-acether/1 X 10(6) cells), whereas lymphocytes were practically unable to form this mediator (1.0 +/- 0.4 pmol Paf-acether/1 X 10(6) cells). Neutrophils and monocytes released in the extracellular medium 49 and 37% of Paf-acether that they formed, respectively. We attempted to correlate the amount of Paf-acether produced by the various cell types with that of its precursors, 1-O-alkyl-2-acyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine and 1-O-alkyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (2-lyso Paf-acether). In the three cell types, the amount of 1-O-alkyl-2-acyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine was sufficient to ensure the formation of 2-lyso Paf-acether and consequently that of Paf-acether. The quantity of 2-lyso Paf-acether formed appeared to be the limiting factor only in the case of the neutrophils. These cells increased their synthesis of Paf-acether in the presence of exogenous 2-lyso Paf-acether. To investigate the failure of lymphocytes to produce the mediator, the acetylating step of Paf-acether formation was studied, and we found a very weak activity (0.5 +/- 0.1 nmol Paf-acether/10 min/mg protein) in this cell type as opposed to monocytes (4.0 +/- 2.3 nmol Paf-acether/10 min/mg protein) and neutrophils (17.8 +/- 5.3 nmol Paf-acether/10 min/mg protein). These activities were doubled in Io-stimulated cells. Thus, the modulation of acetyl-transferase activity appears to be a key step in the regulation of Paf-acether biosynthesis. Also, the availability of 2-lyso Paf-acether could regulate Paf-acether synthesis in human neutrophils.

Acetylglyceryl ether phosphorylcholine (AGEPC; platelet-activating factor)-induced stimulation of rabbit platelets: correlation between phosphatidic acid level, 45Ca2+ uptake, and [3H]serotonin secretion

When 32Pi-labeled rabbit platelets were incubated with 5 X 10(-10) M 1-O-alkyl-2-acetyl-sn-glyceryl-3-phosphorylcholine (AGEPC), either in the presence or absence (0.1 mM EGTA) of added Ca2+, there was a three- to five-fold increase in the [32P]phosphatidic acid (PA) pool within 15 to 20 s. This event was followed by a gradual decrease in the [32P]PA level to near basal level in 5 min. AGEPC effected this change in [32P]PA in a characteristic dose- and time-dependent manner. Polar head group analogs of AGEPC, such as AGEDME and AGEMME, also effected an increase in PA labeling at levels comparable to those previously reported for their activity toward rabbit platelets [K. Satouchi, R. N. Pinckard, L. M., McManus, and D. J. Hanahan (1981) J. Biol. Chem. 256, 4425-4432]. Other analogs, i.e., lysoGEPC and the enantiomer, sn-1-AGEPC, which are inactive toward rabbit platelets, also showed no effect on the level of [32P]PA. The finding that the PA level in rabbit platelets could be manipulated by the addition of AGEPC, without any added Ca2+, provided an excellent model system for establishing a correlation between the uptake of Ca2+, serotonin release, and PA level. Thus, PA must be regarded as a sensitive indicator of a reaction mechanism important to the platelet response to AGEPC, and could be the focal point in promoting calcium uptake during the stimulation process.

Observations on the critical micellar concentration of 1-O-alkyl-2-acetyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine and a series of its homologs and analogs

In a study designed to explore the physical chemical characteristics of platelet activating factor (PAF), or 1-O-alkyl-2-acetyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine, the critical micellar concentration of this compound, as well as the propionyl, butyryl and hexanoyl homologs was determined. In addition, an analogous series of compounds, in which the 1-O-alkyl was replaced by a 1-O-hexadecanoyl or a 1-O-octadecanoyl group, were examined for their critical micellar concentration. A variety of analytical techniques including NMR, gas liquid chromatography, infra-red spectrometry, thin layer chromatography, phosphorus, choline, glyceryl ether and fatty acid analyses were used to confirm the high purity of the individual derivatives. A dye binding assay and a surface tension technique were compared as to their suitability for determination of the critical micellar concentration of these compounds. Whereas the dye binding method proved highly variable, the surface tension procedure proved to be a facile, reproducible technique and was the assay of choice. The critical micellar concentration of the 1-O-alkyl and the 1-O-acyl derivatives showed comparable values for each short chain substituent at carbon 2, with values, in microM, ranging from 1.3 +/- 0.03 for 1-O-hexadecanoyl-2-acetyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine and 1.1 +/- 0.10 for 1-O-hexadecyl-2-acetyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine to 0.22 +/- 0.01 for 1-O-hexadecanoyl-2-hexanoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine and 0.18 +/- 0.03 for 1-O-hexadecyl-2-hexanoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine. The data show that at the molar concentration usually employed in biological studies with these compounds, i.e., 1 X 10(-7) to 10(-11) M, one can assume that they will be present as monomolecular species. Thus, it seems unlikely that the widely diverse biological activities of these compounds can be explained by this physical parameter.

Dissociation between inhibition of phospholipid methylation and production of PAF-acether by rabbit platelets

Platelet-activating-factor (PAF-acether, 1-O-alkyl-2-acetyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphorylcholine) is formed by and released from rabbit platelets stimulated with thrombin, with the ionophore A23187, with collagen and with the platelet-stimulating glycoprotein convulxin. We here show that 3-deazaadenosine (C3ado) and L-homocysteine (HCy), two inhibitors of platelet methylation, reduced the formation of PAF-acether and of its deacetylated product lyso-PAF-acether by rabbit platelets challenged with thrombin, under conditions where the accompanying aggregation was not significantly modified. In contrast, platelet aggregation induced by convulxin was completely and irreversibly blocked when C3ado and HCy were associated. Aggregation by thrombin was not affected by the methylation inhibitors even when ADP was scavenged and thromboxane formation was suppressed. Our results indicate that phospholipid methylation, thrombin-induced platelet aggregation and formation of PAF-acether can be dissociated. The formation of PAF-acether by rabbit platelets can be blocked by mechanisms other than inhibition of phospholipase A2, since the latter is not affected by C3ado and/or HCy.

Paf-acether generates chemiluminescence in human neutrophils in the absence of cytochalasin B

In the absence of cytochalasin B, synthetic Paf-acether (0.1-10 microM) induced oxygen radical production in polymorphonuclear neutrophils as measured by the luminol-dependent chemiluminescence ( LDCL ) test. This effect was observed after a lag period of 10 s and was maximal between 5 and 15 min. In the presence of cytochalasin B, the kinetics were shortened, but the lag period was not modified and the same concentrations of the agonist had to be used to induce LDCL . None of the structural analogs tested (2-lyso Paf-acether, Paf-acether enantiomer, 1 ester analog of Paf-acether, lyso-phosphatidylcholine) were active, irrespective of the presence of cytochalasin B. Paf-acether (10 microM) shortened the kinetics of opsonized zymosan (10 micrograms/ml)-induced LDCL and enhanced it by 550% and 250% at 5 min and 10 min respectively, without affecting the peak value. Similar results were obtained using non-opsonized zymosan (100 micrograms/ml). Lower concentrations of Paf-acether (0.1 microM) were also able to increase oxygen radical production induced by low doses of zymosan and opsonized zymosan. The triggering and enhancing effects of Paf-acether on oxygen radical production by resting and stimulated polymorphonuclear neutrophils support the role of Paf-acether in inflammation.

1-O-alkyl-linked glycerophospholipids of human neutrophils: distribution of arachidonate and other acyl residues in the ether-linked and diacyl species

This study was done to determine whether human neutrophils contain sufficient 1-O-alkyl-2-acyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine to support the synthesis of platelet activating factor by a deacylation-reacylation mechanism, and to examine the relative distribution of arachidonate among the 1,2-diacyl, 1-O-alkyl-2-acyl, and the 1-O-alk-1'-enyl-2-acyl classes of choline- and ethanolamine-containing phospholipids. The predominant phospholipid species of human neutrophils were choline-containing glycerophospholipids (41%), ethanolamine-containing glycerophospholipids (39%), and sphingomyelin (14%), with smaller quantities of phosphatidylserine (4%) and phosphatidylinositol (1%). The choline-linked fraction contained high amounts of 1-O-alkyl-2-acyl-X (44%) and 1,2-diacyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (47%), and a lesser amount of 1-O-alk-1'-enyl-2-acyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (9%). In contrast, the ethanolamine-linked fraction contained a large amount of 1-O-alk-1'-enyl-2-acyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphoethanolamine (66%), and lower levels of the 1,2-diacyl (24%) and 1-O-alkyl-2-acyl (10%) species. The major 1-O-alkyl and 1-O-alk-1'-enyl ether chains found in the choline and ethanolamine phospholipid pools were 16:0, 18:0, 18:1, and 20:0. The predominant fatty acyl residues found in the 1,2-diacyl and the sn-2 position of the 1-O-alkyl-2-acyl and 1-O-alk-1'-enyl-2-acyl choline and ethanolamine glycerophospholipids were 16:0, 18:0, 18:1, 18:2, and 20:4.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Effects of NaCl and GTP on the inhibition of platelet adenylate cyclase by 1-O-octadecyl-2-O-acetyl-sn-glyceryl-3-phosphorylcholine (synthetic platelet-activating factor)

We have investigated the effects of NaCl and GTP on the inhibition of platelet adenylate cyclase by 1-O-octadecyl-2-O-acetyl-sn-glyceryl-3-phosphorylcholine (1-octadecyl-2-acetyl-G-3-PC), using particulate fractions from human and rabbit platelets that had been frozen and thawed in the presence of ethylene glycol bis(beta-aminoethyl ether)-N,N,N',N'-tetraacetate to prevent Ca2+-dependent proteolysis. When 10 microM GTP was present, 100 mM NaCl stimulated the activity of the rabbit enzyme 5.6-fold and that of the human enzyme 2.2-fold. Under these conditions, maximum inhibitions of 90% and 64% were obtained on addition of 100 nM 1-octadecyl-2-acetyl-G-3-PC to rabbit and human preparations, respectively. These inhibitions resulted partly from an NaCl-independent inhibition of basal enzyme activity and partly from reversal of the stimulatory effect of NaCl. The relative abilities of the chlorides of different monovalent cations to enhance inhibition of rabbit platelet adenylate cyclase were: NaCl greater than LiCl greater than KCl greater than choline chloride. NaCl also increased the concentrations of 1-octadecyl-2-acetyl-G-3-PC required for half-maximal inhibition of adenylate cyclase but this action of NaCl did not correlate with its stimulatory effect on enzyme activity. After particulate fractions from platelets of either species were washed, 10 microM GTP inhibited basal adenylate cyclase activity in the absence of NaCl but stimulated the enzyme in the presence of NaCl. Inhibition of adenylate cyclase by 1-octadecyl-2-acetyl-G-3-PC was then either enhanced by GTP (rabbit material) or completely dependent on added GTP (human material). Stimulation of the activity of the washed human preparations by NaCl required GTP, but concentrations lower than required for potentiation of the inhibitory effect of 1-octadecyl-2-acetyl-G-3-PC by NaCl were effective.

Mechanism(s) of the hypotensive effect of synthetic 1-O-octadecyl-2-O-acetyl-glycero-3-phosphorylcholine

The mechanism of the hypotensive effect of 1-O-octadecyl-2-O-acetyl-glycero-3-phosphorylcholine (C18- AGPC ) was examined. Synthetic C18- AGPC caused dose-dependent hypotension in conscious rats. The activity was almost the same in DOCA and renal hypertensive rats. This suggests that it is not a renin inhibitor. Hypotension also appeared in pithed rats. This suggests that the effect is not due to a central mechanism. Hypotension did not result from platelet aggregation or bronchial constriction. Since C18- AGPC suppressed not only the pressor response to noradrenaline but also to angiotensin II and vasopressin, and furthermore, did not disturb the dose-response curve of noradrenaline in the isolated aorta, the possibility of the agent being an alpha-adrenergic antagonist is ruled out. In the PGF2 alpha-contracted rat aorta. C18- AGPC caused marked vasodilation, which disappeared after removal of the endothelium. Perfusion pressure decreased in the blood-perfused rat hindquarters but not in the Tyrode solution-perfused ones. C18- AGPC induced a positive inotropic effect in isolated rat atrium. The hypotensive effect of synthetic C18- AGPC seems to be mainly due to endothelium-dependent vasodilation.

Cytotoxicity of platelet activating factor and related alkyl-phospholipid analogs in human leukemia cells, polymorphonuclear neutrophils, and skin fibroblasts

A series of 11 alkyl-phospholipid analogs, structurally related to platelet activating factor (L-PAF), were analyzed for cytotoxic activity in human leukemic (HL-60) cells, human polymorphonuclear neutrophils, and Detroit 551 human skin fibroblasts. The order of selectiveness of the analogs in their cytotoxic response toward HL-60 cells in comparison to neutrophils is 1-alkyl-2-acetamide-GPC greater than 1-alkyl-2-methoxy-GPC greater than D-PAF greater than 1-acyl-2-lyso-GPC greater than 1-alkyl-2-lyso-GPC greater than L-PAF. A time-sequenced progression of events caused by the most potent cytotoxic alkyl-phospholipid analogs was characterized by (a) a rapid decrease in the cellular uptake and incorporation of 3H-thymidine into DNA that was detectable 4 hr after exposure to the analog, (b) a release of lactate dehydrogenase activity into the media at 8 hr after exposure, and (c) a decrease in cell number due to cell death that begins at 12 hr after exposure. Treatment of HL-60 cells with 1-alkyl-2-methoxy-GPC for 1 hr destroyed 40% of the cells after a subsequent 24-hr incubation period. The varied biologic activities of L-PAF, including how it affects serotonin release from platelets, blood pressure in rats, and cytotoxic responses in normal and leukemic cells, are discussed in relation to its D-enantiomer, 3-alkyl-2-acetyl-GPC, and the 2-acetamide analog. This report characterizes the kinetic events of the cellular responses in both normal and HL-60 cells in relation to the antineoplastic activities of unnatural ether-linked phospholipid analogs that are structurally related to L-PAF.

Contractile effect of 1-O-hexadecyl-2-O-acetyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine on strips of isolated rat intestine

The contractile effects of AGEPC were examined on various regions of rat isolated intestine. The duodenum, jejunum and ileum showed only the tonic component of contraction to AGEPC at the low dose (less than 10(-9) M) but at the high dose (10(-7) M) biphasic contractions were induced, consisting of a phasic followed by a tonic component. In the colon, however, the AGEPC-induced maximum contraction was comparable in magnitude to that produced by acetylcholine; also the contraction profile was different from that elicited from the other regions of the intestine. Low doses of AGEPC caused a slow, sustained contraction and at high doses phasic and tonic components were not dissociated.

Platelet activating factor (PAF-acether) is released into rat pulmonary alveolar fluid as a consequence of hypoxia

Hypoxia provokes pulmonary constriction and because PAF-acether is a very strong pulmonary constrictor, we looked for PAF-acether in lung alveolar lavage (LAL) with a biological method based on the measurement of rabbit platelet aggregation. We first demonstrated a PAF-acether secretion during bronchoalveolar lavage with sterile isotonic NaCl (pH 7.2). PAF-acether secretion was completely suppressed with isotonic NaCl containing 5 mM EDTA but lyso-PAF-acether was still present (1.9 +/- 0.55 nmoles). Upon hypobaric hypoxia, PAF-acether was detected in LAL (1.05 +/- 0.25 10(-2)nmoles). The amount of lyso-PAF-acether increased by 6 times (12.1 +/- 4.1 nmoles). These results are given for 10(4) nmoles phospholipids of LAL. They indicate that alveolar macrophages might be activated by hypobaric hypoxia, so they produce PAF-acether in the alveole. Such a process could be involved in the well-known bronchoconstriction accompanying hypoxia.

The role of antihypertensive polar renomedullary lipid in the pathogenesis of hypertension

One-0-hexadecyl-2-0-acetyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphorylcholine (HAGPC), a component of semisynthetic antihypertensive polar renomedullary lipid (APRL) reported by Muirhead et al. in chemically treated rabbit renomedullary lipid had a strong hypotensive action, a cardiosuppressing action and an apparent anti-norepinephrine action. 3-(N-n-octadecylcarbamoyloxy)-2-methoxypropyl-2-thiazolio ethyl phosphate significantly inhibited the hypotensive action of HAGPC, whereas the hypotensive activities of prostaglandin I2, prostaglandin E2, bradykinin, histamine and acetylcholine were not affected by this drug. The blood pressure of rats with established hypertension produced by clipping one renal artery and contralateral nephrectomy normally decreases rapidly after unclipping the renal artery, but the initial rapid decrease was significantly inhibited by an intravenous infusion of 3-(N-n-octadecylcarbamoyloxy)-2-methoxypropyl-2-thiazolio ethyl phosphate. This shows that endogenous 1-alkyl-2-acetyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphorylcholine participates in the rapid decrease of blood pressure after unclipping the renal artery in one-kidney, one clip hypertensive rats.

A new class of antihypertensive neutral lipid: 1-alkyl-2-acetyl-sn-glycerols, a precursor of platelet activating factor

A new type of neutral lipid is described that possesses hypotensive activity in genetic hypertensive (SHR) and normotensive (WKY) rats. 1-Alkyl-2-acetyl-sn-glycerols and 1-alkyl-2-propionyl-sn-glycerols are both equally effective in eliciting the hypotensive response. Requirement for the 1-alkyl and 2-acetyl or 2-propionyl structure of the active isomer was documented by the negative responses obtained with closely related neutral lipid analogs (1-alkyl-2-acyl-, 1-alkyl-3-acetyl-, 1-acyl-2-acetyl-, 1-alkyl-2,3-diacetyl-, and 1-alkyl-glycerols). Although less potent than PAF (1-alkyl-2-acetyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine), the 1-alkyl-2-acetyl-sn-glycerols produce a response of significantly longer duration and may have fewer immediate side effects than PAF. The mechanism for the biological activity is unknown; however, we have demonstrated previously that the enzymatic synthesis of 1-alkyl-2-acetyl-sn-glycerols to PAF occurs via a specific cholinephosphotransferase and therefore the observed blood pressure response might be due to the conversion of the neutral lipid precursor to PAF in vivo.

Tumor cytotoxicity of human macrophages after incubation with synthetic analogues of 2-lysophosphatidylcholine

Human alveolar macrophages as well as macrophages derived from Teflon culture of blood-borne monocytes were incubated with synthetic analogues of 2-lysophosphatidylcholine and then tested for their cytotoxic capacity against an allogeneic lymphoma cell line. Metabolic, rather stable analogues enhanced macrophage cytotoxicity significantly. This phenomenon was shown both in a growth-inhibition assay as well as in the 51Cr release assay. Macrophage activation was dose- and time-dependent and was potentiated at temperatures above 37 degrees C. Incubation of the macrophages with the active compounds induced characteristic changes in cell morphology as revealed by scanning electron microscopy.

Effects of a thio analog of platelet-activating factor on platelet aggregation and adenosine 3',5'-monophosphate concentration in hepatocyte suspensions and in platelets. A comparison with the naturally occurring compound

2-Acetyl-S-octadecyl-rac-1-thioglycero-3-phosphocholine, the thio analog of platelet-activating factor, in concentrations of 10(-6) M to 10(-12) M in the medium, lowers cAMP-concentrations in rat hepatocytes. In a concentration of 10(-4) M, the thio analog aggregates human platelets irreversibly, above 10(-5) M aggregation shows a reversible course. Compared with the saturated or unsaturated ether analogs, the thio compound shows less platelet-aggregating potency. We have correlated this difference in platelet aggregation with reduced cAMP-depressing activity of the thio analog (compared with saturated and unsaturated 2-acetyl-1-O-alkyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholines).

Inflammatory characteristics of platelet activating factor (PAF-acether) in human skin

The phospholipid PAF-acether is released from a range of inflammatory cell types and, in experimental animals, has properties appropriate to a mediator of inflammation. We have studied the inflammatory characteristics of intradermally injected PAF-acether in human skin. An early weal and flare response was succeeded, in a proportion of subjects, by an area of late-onset erythema at the site of the resolved weal, reminiscent of the dual response to allergen in sensitized individuals. The time-course and dose-response relationship of the early response has been determined and a synergistic interaction between PAF-acether and prostaglandin E2 established. PAF-acether should therefore be considered as a potential mediator of both acute and persisting inflammation in man.

Evidence for mediation of acetyl glyceryl ether phosphorylcholine stimulation of adenosine 3',5'-(cyclic)monophosphate levels in human polymorphonuclear leukocytes by leukotriene B4

Acetyl glyceryl ether phosphorylcholine induces human neutrophil aggregation. Incubation of neutrophils with either prostaglandin I2, or the cyclic AMP-dependent phosphodiesterase inhibitor, RO 20-1724 before the addition of PAF-acether attenuates subsequent aggregation. Paradoxically, a small elevation in cyclic AMP is observed coincident with the initiation of PAF-acether-stimulated aggregation. The elevation in cyclic AMP in response to PAF-acether is amplified by RO 20-1724, and the magnitude of the response is dependent upon the concentration of PAF-acether. The elevation in cyclic AMP is not due to prostaglandins, because indomethacin actually enhances the elevation in cyclic AMP induced by PAF-acether. The involvement of the neutrophil 5-lipoxygenase, and subsequent leukotriene B4 synthesis, is suggested by the observation that 5-lipoxygenase inhibitors limit both the elevation in cyclic AMP induced by PAF-acether, and the indomethacin enhancement. This indirect evidence is supported by the fact that leukotriene B4 itself elevates neutrophil cyclic AMP levels in intact cells, and stimulates the adenylate cyclase in broken cell preparations. Although the elevation in cyclic AMP induced by either PAF-acether or leukotriene B4 is coincident with the onset of neutrophil aggregation, it is not obligatory for aggregation. The adenylate cyclase inhibitor 2',5'-dideoxyadenosine blocks the PAF-acether-stimulated increase in cyclic AMP, and actually enhances aggregation. It is suggested that the increase in cyclic AMP observed after the addition of PAF-acether is due to concomitant leukotriene B4 synthesis, and is not obligatory for neutrophil aggregation, but is actually part of a feed-back regulatory system through which PAF-acether and leukotriene B4 can limit their own activity in neutrophils.

Saturated and unsaturated 1-0-alkyl-2-0-acetoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholines and 2-lyso derivatives from ratfish liver oil. Effect on adenosine 3':5'-cyclic monophosphate concentration in hepatocyte suspensions

1-0-Alkyl-2-0-acetoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholines, containing saturated or unsaturated alkyl moieties and their 2-lyso derivatives, prepared from ratfish liver oil (Hydrolagus colliei), were studied for their in vitro effect on cellular adenosine 3':5'-cyclic monophosphate (cAMP) concentration in freshly isolated hepatocytes from adult rats. We report here for the first time that semisynthetic platelet-activating factor (PAF), the saturated and unsaturated compound, from 10(-6) M to 10(-12) M, is effective in lowering cAMP concentrations by 50% after 4 h of incubation. This effect becomes apparent after 30 min. Concentrations from 10(-12) M up to 10(-20) M did not influence cAMP levels. The 2-lyso derivatives (10(-8) M) of both compounds are equally active as compared to their 2-0-acetoyl derivatives, in lowering cAMP levels after 4 h of incubation. We discuss the existence of a transacetylating enzyme, generating the active form in rat liver cells.

Metabolism of platelet-activating factor by blood platelets and plasma

High performance liquid chromatography in combination with a radioactivity detector was used to study the metabolism of platelet-activating factor (1-0-alkyl-2-acetyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine) by washed platelets, platelet-free plasma and platelet-rich plasma obtained from rabbits and humans. Degradation of platelet-activating factor to its 2-lyso derivative was observed in rabbit and human plasma. This degradation of platelet-activating factor in plasma was completely inhibited by diisopropylfluorophosphate and was partially inhibited by ethylenediamine tetraacetic acid. Washed platelets metabolized platelet-activating factor not only to the 2-lyso compound but also, by reacylation of this lyso intermediate, to an analogue of platelet-activating factor probably containing a long-chain acyl group at the sn-2 position. These transformations occurred, but to a lesser extent, in platelet-rich plasma.

Aortic vascular and atrial responses to (+/-)-1-O-octadecyl-2-acetyl-glyceryl-3-phosphorylcholine

The effects of (+/-)-1-O-octadecyl-2-acetyl-glyceryl-3-phosphorylcholine (octadecyl-AGPC) were studied in three types of aortic vascular smooth muscle preparations, namely, strips, rubbed and unrubbed rings, and an atrial preparation in normotensive rats. In the resting tension state, octadecyl-AGPC did not elicit significant contractions in either rubbed or unrubbed ring preparations at concentrations lower than 1 X 10(-4) M. However, at a concentration of 3 X 10(-4) M, octadecyl-AGPC markedly contracted both types of ring preparations. This contractile response was partially antagonized by pretreatment with reserpine and completely blocked by phentolamine (1 X 10(-6) M). In preparations contracted with noradrenaline (NA), octadecyl-AGPC elicited biphasic responses in intact ring preparations; an initial relaxation followed by contraction. Octadecyl-AGPC induced only a slight contraction in strips and a slight relaxation in the rubbed ring preparation. Octadecyl-AGPC did not elicit any significant effect on chronotropy or inotropy at concentrations up to 3 X 10(-5) M. When the concentration was 1 X 10(-4) M, octadecyl-AGPC produced significant positive chronotropic and inotropic effects on spontaneously beating right and electrically driven left atrial preparations, respectively. Both effects were blocked by propranolol (5 X 10(-8) M); reserpine pretreatment antagonized only the chronotropic response. In [3H]-dihydroalprenolol [( 3H]-DHA) binding studies, octadecyl-AGPC had a Kd of 427.85 microM and thus was much less potent than isoprenaline (Kd = 465.10 nM) or propranolol (Kd = 4.4 nM) in displacing [3H]-DHA in rat cardiac membrane preparations. 6 In conclusion, relaxation and contraction induced by octadecyl-AGPC in aortic preparations is an indirect rather than a direct effect. An unknown factor released from endothelial cells is responsible for aortic smooth muscle relaxation by octadecyl-AGPC while released NA appears to be responsible for aortic vascular contraction and for the positive chronotropic and inotropic effects in the atrial preparations.