Smoking enhances oxytocin-induced rhythmic myometrial contraction

Although smoking during pregnancy is one of the major risk factors of premature delivery, the underlying mechanism by which smoking causes premature delivery is unknown. In the present study, we examined the effects of smoking on uterine contractility induced by oxytocin and prostaglandin F(2alpha). Rats inhaled either cigarette smoke or room air from Day 14 to Day 16 of pregnancy through an inhalation apparatus for experimental animals (type "Hamburg II"). After the rats were killed on Day 17 of pregnancy, the uterine contractile sensitivity and activity on exposure to oxytocin or prostaglandin F2alpha were investigated. The expression levels of oxytocin-receptor mRNA and prostaglandin F(2alpha) receptor mRNA in the uterus were investigated by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. The contractile activity was assessed as the contractile force and the frequency of rhythmic contractions of myometrial strips that were treated with oxytocin or prostaglandin F(2alpha). The contractile sensitivity to oxytocin was significantly higher in the smoking group than in the control group (P < 0.01). Although the contractile force of oxytocin-induced contractions did not differ between the smoking and control groups, the frequency of contractions was significantly higher in the smoking group than in the control group (P < 0.01). On the other hand, no significant differences were found in the contractile sensitivity and activity in response to prostaglandin F(2alpha) between the smoking and control groups. The expression of oxytocin-receptor mRNA in the myometrium was significantly increased in the smoking group compared with the control group (P < 0.01). However, no significant difference was found in the level of expression of prostaglandin F(2alpha)-receptor mRNA between the two groups. These results suggest that smoking during pregnancy increases the contractile sensitivity and activity of the myometrium in response to oxytocin by up-regulating the expression of oxytocin-receptor mRNA. The effects of smoking on the contractile sensitivity and activity of the myometrium in response to oxytocin may increase the risk of premature delivery in smokers.

Prostaglandin D2 affects the maturation of human monocyte-derived dendritic cells: consequence on the polarization of naive Th cells

Among the factors produced at inflammatory sites and those capable of modulating dendritic cell (DC) functions, PGD(2) may be important in the outcome of immune responses. The biological roles for PGD(2) are in part effected through two plasma membrane G protein-coupled receptors: the D prostanoid (DP) receptor and the chemoattractant receptor-homologous molecule expressed on Th2 lymphocytes (CRTH2). In this report, we studied the effects of PGD(2) and of its major physiological metabolite, 15-deoxy-Delta(12,14)-PGJ(2) (15d-PGJ(2)), on the functions of human monocyte-derived DC. First, we show that PGD(2) exerts in vitro chemotactic effects on monocytes via CRTH2 activation while it inhibits the chemokine-driven migration of monocyte-derived DC through DP. We also report that PGD(2) and 15d-PGJ(2) alter the LPS- and allergen-induced DC maturation and enhance the CD80/CD86 ratio on mature DC in a DP- and CRTH2-independent manner. Moreover, PGD(2) and 15d-PGJ(2) strongly reduce the secretion of the Th1 promoting cytokine IL-12 and affect the synthesis of chemokines involved in Th1 cell chemotaxis, particularly CXCL10. Inhibition of cytokine/chemokine secretion implicates at least in part DP, but not CRTH2. The effects exerted by PGD(2) are associated with the phosphorylation of CREB, but do not parallel with the deactivation of the NF-kappa B and mitogen-activated protein kinase pathways. In contrast, 15d-PGJ(2) seems to target other cellular proteins. Finally, in a model of Th CD45RA(+) differentiation induced by allergen- and superantigen-pulsed DC, PGD(2) impacts on the orientation of the immune response by favoring a Th2 response.

Pharmacological characterization of a novel antiglaucoma agent, Bimatoprost (AGN 192024)

Replacement of the carboxylic acid group of prostaglandin (PG) F(2alpha) with a nonacidic moiety, such as hydroxyl, methoxy, or amido, results in compounds with unique pharmacology. Bimatoprost (AGN 192024) is also a pharmacologically novel PGF(2alpha) analog, where the carboxylic acid is replaced by a neutral ethylamide substituent. Bimatoprost potently contracted the feline lung parenchymal preparation (EC(50) value of 35-55 nM) but exhibited no meaningful activity in a variety of PG-sensitive tissue and cell preparations. Its activity seemed unrelated to FP receptor stimulation according to the following evidence. 1) Bimatoprost exhibited no meaningful activity in tissues and cells containing functional FP receptors. 2) Bimatoprost activity in the cat lung parenchyma is not species-specific because its potent activity in this preparation could not be reproduced in cells stably expressing the feline FP receptor. 3) Radioligand binding studies using feline and human recombinant FP receptors exhibited minimal competition versus [(3)H]17-phenyl PGF(2a) for Bimatoprost. 4) Bimatoprost pretreatment did not attenuate PGF(2alpha)-induced Ca(2+) signals in Swiss 3T3 cells. 5) Regional differences were apparent for Bimatoprost but not FP agonist effects in the cat lung. Bimatoprost reduced intraocular pressure in ocular normotensive and hypertensive monkeys over a 0.001 to 0.1% dose range. A single-dose and multiple-dose ocular distribution/metabolism studies using [(3)H]Bimatoprost (0.1%) were performed. Within the globe, bimatoprost concentrations were 10- to 100-fold higher in anterior segment tissues compared with the aqueous humor. Bimatoprost was overwhelmingly the predominant molecular species identified at all time points in ocular tissues, indicating that the intact molecule reduces intraocular pressure.

Expression of prostanoid receptors in human ductus arteriosus

1. Prostaglandins play a major role in maintaining ductal patency in utero. Ductal tone is regulated by both locally released and circulating vasodilatory prostaglandins. In infants with ductus arteriosus-dependent congenital heart disease, ductal patency is maintained by intravenous administration of prostaglandin (PG) E(1). Little information is available regarding the expression of prostaglandin receptors in man. 2. By means of RT-PCR and immunohistochemistry we studied the expression of the PGI(2) receptor (IP), the four different PGE(2) receptors (EP1, EP2, EP3 and EP4), and the receptors for thromboxane (Tx) A(2) (TP), PGD(2) (DP) and PGF(2alpha) (FP) in the ductus arteriosus of three newborn infants with ductus arteriosus-dependent congenital heart disease and intravenous infusion of PGE(1) and of one 8 month old child with a patent ductus arteriosus. 3. The EP3, EP4, FP, IP and TP receptor were markedly expressed at the mRNA and protein level, whereas the EP2 receptor was weakly expressed and the EP1 receptor was detected in two out of four tissue specimens only. The DP receptor was not detected in any of the samples. The most pronounced expression, which was located in the media of the ductus arteriosus, was observed for the EP4 and TP receptors followed by IP and FP receptor protein. 4. These data indicate that ductal patency during the infusion of PGE(1) in infants with ductus arteriosus-dependent congenital heart disease might be mediated by the EP4 and IP receptor. The data further suggest that a heterogeneous population of prostanoid receptors may contribute to the regulation of ductus arteriosus tone in humans.

Molecular pharmacology of the human prostaglandin D2 receptor, CRTH2

1. The recombinant human prostaglandin D(2) (PGD(2)) receptor, hCRTH2, has been expressed in HEK293(EBNA) and characterized with respect to radioligand binding and signal transduction properties. High and low affinity binding sites for PGD(2) were identified in the CRTH2 receptor population by saturation analysis with respective equilibrium dissociation constants (K(D)) of 2.5 and 109 nM. This revealed that the affinity of PGD(2) for CRTH2 is eight times less than its affinity for the DP receptor. 2. Equilibrium competition binding assays revealed that of the compounds tested, only PGD(2) and several related metabolites bound with high affinity to CRTH2 (K(i) values ranging from 2.4 to 34.0 nM) with the following rank order of potency: PGD(2)>13,14-dihydro-15-keto PGD(2)>15-deoxy-Delta(12,14)-PGJ(2)>PGJ(2)>Delta(12)-PGJ(2)>15(S)-15 methyl-PGD(2). This is in sharp contrast with the rank order of potency obtained at DP : PGD(2)>PGJ(2)>Delta(12)-PGJ(2)>15-deoxy-Delta(12,14)-PGJ(2) >>>13,14-dihydro-15-keto-PGD(2). 3. Functional studies demonstrated that PGD(2) activation of recombinant CRTH2 results in decrease of intracellular cAMP in a pertussis toxin-sensitive manner. Therefore, we showed that CRTH2 can functionally couple to the G-protein G(alphai/o). PGD(2) and related metabolites were tested and their rank order of potency followed the results of the membrane binding assay. 4. By Northern blot analysis, we showed that, besides haemopoietic cells, CRTH2 is expressed in many other tissues such as brain, heart, thymus, spleen and various tissues of the digestive system. In addition, in situ hybridization studies revealed that CRTH2 mRNA is expressed in human eosinophils. Finally, radioligand binding studies demonstrated that two eosinophilic cell lines, butyric acid-differentiated HL-60 and AML 14.3D10, also endogenously express CRTH2.

Seminal plasma activates cyclooxygenase-2 and prostaglandin E2 receptor expression and signalling in cervical adenocarcinoma cells

Enhanced cyclooxygenase (COX) expression and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) synthesis are regarded as promoters of neoplastic cell proliferation and angiogenesis. Expression of COX-2 and synthesis of PGE2 are up-regulated in cervical carcinomas. In sexually active women, growth and invasiveness of neoplastic cervical epithelial cells may be also under the direct influence of PGE2 present in seminal plasma. The aims of this study were to investigate the effect of seminal plasma and PGE2 on the expression of COX-2 and expression and signalling of the PGE2 receptor subtypes (EP1-EP4) in HeLa (cervical adenocarcinoma) cells. Treatment of HeLa cells with seminal plasma or PGE2 resulted in up-regulation of COX-2 expression (P < 0.05). In addition, seminal plasma induced the mRNA expression of EP1, EP2 and EP4 receptors, whilst PGE2 treatment of HeLa cells induced the expression of the EP4 receptor (P < 0.05). This was coincident with a rapid accumulation of adenosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate (cAMP) in HeLa cells stimulated with seminal plasma or PGE2, which was greater in seminal plasma stimulated cells compared with PGE2 stimulated cells (P < 0.05). Subsequently, we investigated whether the effect of seminal plasma on cAMP signalling in HeLa cells was mediated via the cAMP-linked EP2/EP4 receptors. Stimulation of HeLa cells with seminal plasma or PGE2 resulted in an augmented cAMP accumulation in cells transfected with the EP2 or EP4 receptor cDNA compared with control transfected cells (P < 0.05). These data suggest that, in sexually active women, seminal plasma may play a role in modulating neoplastic cell function and cervical tumorigenesis.

A key role for prostaglandin I2 in limiting lung mucosal Th2, but not Th1, responses to inhaled allergen

The cellular events that serve to regulate lung mucosal Th2 responses and limit allergic inflammatory reactions are unclear. Using the DO11.10 TCR transgenic mouse, we developed a model of T cell-mediated pulmonary inflammation and demonstrated that high levels of PGI(2) are produced in the airways following OVA inhalation. Selective inhibition of cyclooxygenase-2 in vivo specifically reduced PGI(2) synthesis and resulted in a marked increase in Th2-mediated, but not Th1-mediated, lung inflammation. The elevated Th2-mediated inflammatory response elicited by the cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitor was associated with enhanced airway hyperreactivity and was coincident with a marked increase in the levels of IL-4, IL-5, and IL-13 in the airways, but a reduction in IL-10 production. In keeping with these observations, we found that the mRNA for the PGI(2) receptor was expressed by Th2, but not Th1, cells, and transcripts for the PGI(2) receptor were induced by IL-4 and OVA peptide stimulation. Interestingly, treatment with PGI(2) or its stable analog, carbaprostacyclin, augmented IL-10 production by Th2 cells. Collectively, our findings reveal a key role for PGI(2) in differentially limiting Th2 responses, possibly by promoting production of the immunosuppressive cytokine IL-10 at the site of allergic lung inflammation. These results indicate an important role for prostanoids generated during inflammation in regulating mucosal T cell responses and highlight a potential risk in the use of cyclooxygenase-2-specific inhibitors by allergic asthmatics.

A novel mechanism of dendritic spine plasticity involving estradiol induction of prostaglandin-E2

The mechanisms establishing and maintaining dendritic spines in the mammalian CNS remain primarily unknown. We report a novel mechanism of neuronal spine plasticity in the developing preoptic area in which estradiol induces prostaglandin-E2 (PGE2) synthesis that in turn increases the density of spine-like processes. Estradiol requires PGE2 synthesis, in vivo and in vitro, and upregulates the dendritic spine protein spinophilin, an effect attenuated by antagonism of the AMPA-kainate receptor. This signaling pathway may involve cross talk between neighboring neurons and astrocytes and appears specific to the preoptic area in that hippocampal neurons responded with an increase in spinophilin to estradiol but not PGE2. Regionally specific mechanisms of estradiol-mediated synaptic plasticity allow for epigenetic control of complex sex-typic behaviors.

Retinal capillary pericyte proliferation and c-Fos mRNA induction by prostaglandin D2 through the cAMP response element

PURPOSE

Cycloxygenase inhibitors have been shown to prevent angiogenesis in some circumstances, suggesting that growth of capillary pericytes or endothelial cells may be regulated by prostaglandins (PGs). The present study tests the effects of PGs on the growth of human retinal capillary pericytes.

METHODS

Cell growth was assayed by formazan formation and 5-bromo-2'-deoxyuridine (BrdU) incorporation. The expression of mRNAs corresponding to c-fos, PG receptors, and VEGF was examined by RT-PCR. Signal transduction was evaluated by immunoblot analysis using phosphospecific antibodies against mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) and cAMP response element-binding protein (CREB). Synthesis of cAMP was inhibited with the adenyl cyclase inhibitor SQ22536. A reporter gene (luciferase) assay was conducted using the expression vector pSVOADelta5' containing the 379-bp c-fos promoter with and without a mutation in cAMP response element (CRE). RESULTS. PGD2 treatment induced c-fos mRNA, stimulated pericyte growth, and increased expression of VEGF mRNA. PGE2 and -F(2alpha) had similar effects on c-fos induction and pericyte growth, whereas PGI2 was ineffective. RT-PCR confirmed that mRNAs corresponding to the receptors for PGD2, -E2, -F(2alpha), and -I(2) were expressed in human retinal pericytes. Stimulation by PGD2 led to phosphorylation of CREB, but had negligible effect on phosphorylation of p44/42 MAPK. The adenylyl cyclase inhibitor inhibited CREB activation and c-fos induction by PGD2. In a reporter gene assay, c-fos induction occurred only with wild-type c-fos promoter. Mutation in CRE eliminated the response to PGD2.

CONCLUSIONS

PGD2 promotes the growth of retinal capillary pericytes by signaling through cAMP and CREB. The findings underscore the importance of PGs in the growth of human retinal capillary pericytes and raise the possibility that PGs may play a role in proliferative retinopathies.

The hydrolysis of bimatoprost in corneal tissue generates a potent prostanoid FP receptor agonist

Using human and bovine corneal tissue, we investigated the in vitro metabolism of bimatoprost (17-phenyl-18,19,20-trinor-prostaglandin F(2alpha) ethyl amide, Lumigan (Allergan, Inc, Irvine, CA). Enzymatic amidase activity, which converts bimatoprost to the corresponding prostaglandin carboxylic acid, was found to be present in corneal tissue from both species. Using HPLC and mass spectrometry for analyses, conversion of bimatoprost to 17-phenyl-18,19,20-trinor prostaglandin F(2alpha) continued for at least 24 hours after excision of the cornea, with a conversion rate of approximately 25 microg/24 hours. This hydrolysis product is identical to the free acid of latanoprost with the exception of a double, rather than a single, bond at the carbon 13-14 position. Assuming that this conversion also occurs in vivo at a similar rate, this hydrolysis product may account for the reduction of intraocular pressure occurring in patients treated with bimatoprost.

Cutting edge: agonistic effect of indomethacin on a prostaglandin D2 receptor, CRTH2

Indomethacin is a widely used nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug and is generally known to exhibit its multiple biological functions by inhibiting cyclooxygenases or activating peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors. In this study, we present evidence demonstrating that the novel PGD(2) receptor chemoattractant receptor-homologous molecule expressed on Th2 cells (CRTH2) is another functional target for indomethacin. Indomethacin induced Ca(2+) mobilization in CRTH2-transfected K562 cells at submicromolar concentrations (approximate EC(50), 50 nM) in a G(alphai)-dependent manner as PGD(2) did. Other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (aspirin, sulindac, diclofenac, and acemetacin) had no such effect even at micromolar concentrations. In chemotaxis assay, three CRTH2-expressing cell types, Th2 cells, eosinophils, and basophils, were all significantly attracted by indomethacin (EC(50), 50-500 nM) as well as by PGD(2) (EC(50), 2-20 nM), and the effects of indomethacin were blocked by anti-CRTH2 mAb. These results suggest the involvement of CRTH2 in mediating some of therapeutic and/or unwanted side effects of indomethacin, independently of cyclooxygenases and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors.

Pronounced eosinophilic lung inflammation and Th2 cytokine release in human lipocalin-type prostaglandin D synthase transgenic mice

PGD(2) is a major lipid mediator released from mast cells, but little is known about its role in the development of allergic reactions. We used transgenic (TG) mice overexpressing human lipocalin-type PGD synthase to examine the effect of overproduction of PGD(2) in an OVA-induced murine asthma model. The sensitization of wild-type (WT) and TG mice was similar as judged by the content of OVA-specific IgE. After OVA challenge, PGD(2), but not PGE(2), substantially increased in the lungs of WT and TG mice with greater PGD(2) increment in TG mice compared with WT mice. The numbers of eosinophils and lymphocytes in the bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid were significantly greater in TG mice than in WT mice on days 1 and 3 post-OVA challenge, whereas the numbers of macrophages and neutrophils were the same in both WT and TG mice. The levels of IL-4, IL-5, and eotaxin in BAL fluid were also significantly higher in TG mice than in WT mice, although the level of IFN-gamma in the BAL fluid of TG mice was decreased compared with that in WT mice. Furthermore, lymphocytes isolated from the lungs of TG mice secreted less IFN-gamma than those from WT mice, whereas IL-4 production was unchanged between WT and TG mice. Thus, overproduction of PGD(2) caused an increase in the levels of Th2 cytokines and a chemokine, accompanied by the enhanced accumulation of eosinophils and lymphocytes in the lung. These results indicate that PGD(2) plays an important role in late phase allergic reactions in the pathophysiology of bronchial asthma.

Immunohistochemical localization of the prostacyclin receptor (IP) human bone

Prostacyclin (PGI(2)) is an important mediator implicated in bone metabolism. Among the natural prostaglandins it is the most potent inhibitor of bone resorption and mediates bone modelling and remodelling induced by strain changes. The effects of prostacyclin depend on its interaction with a specific receptor (IP). Despite its well documented effects on bone the localization and distribution of the IP receptor in human bone remain unknown. The present study used specific antipeptide antibodies to IP receptor for immunolocalization of the IP receptor in normal, osteoporotic and Pagetic human adult bone and in human fetal bone. The IP receptor was detected in fetal and adult osteoclasts and osteoblasts. Fetal osteocytes also expressed IP receptor but not adult osteocytes. Interestingly, the expression of IP receptor in adult osteoblasts was gradually lost as these cells were trapped in the matrix and became osteocytes. The IP receptor showed a perinuclear distribution within the cells, but in multinuclear osteoclasts not all nuclei were positive. Our results showed differences in IP receptor expression in fetal and adult human bone and, in adult bone, with the differentiation of osteoblasts into osteocytes. They also showed that there is no difference on the expression of prostacyclin receptors in Pagetic, osteoporotic and normal human bone, and they confirm the presence of the IP receptor in human osteoblasts as had been demonstrated by our previous study with human osteoblasts in culture.

Actions of prostaglandin F2alpha and prolactin on intercellular adhesion molecule-1 expression and monocyte/macrophage accumulation in the rat corpus luteum

Expression of intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) and the accumulation of monocytes/macrophages are inflammatory events that occur during PRL (PRL)-induced regression of the rat corpus luteum. Here we have compared the ability of prostaglandin F2alpha (PGF) and PRL to induce, in rat corpora lutea, inflammatory events thought to perpetuate luteal regression. Immature rats were ovulated with eCG-hCG and then hypophysectomized (Day 0), which resulted in a single cohort of persistent, functional corpora lutea. On Days 9-11, the rats received twice daily injections of saline, PGF (Lutalyse, 250 microg/injection), or PRL (312 microg/injection) to induce luteal regression. Surprisingly, luteal weight and plasma progestin concentrations (progesterone and 20alpha-dihydroprogesterone) did not differ between PGF-treated rats and controls; whereas both luteal weight and plasma progestins declined significantly in PRL-treated rats. Furthermore, corpora lutea of PGF-treated rats and controls contained relatively minimal ICAM-1 staining and few monocytes/macrophages. In contrast, but as expected, corpora lutea of PRL-treated rats stained intensely for ICAM-1 and contained numerous monocytes/macrophages. In an additional experiment, there was no indication that luteal prostaglandin F2alpha receptor mRNA diminished as a result of hypophysectomy. These findings suggest that prolactin, not PGF, induces the inflammatory events that accompany regression of the rat corpus luteum.

Characterization of the prostaglandin receptors in human osteoblasts in culture

Prostaglandins have complex actions on bone metabolism that depend on interactions with different types and subtypes of receptors. Our objective was to characterize the prostaglandins receptors present in primary cultures of human osteoblasts. RT-PCR analysis revealed the presence of DP, EP(4), IP, FP and TP receptor mRNA in primary cultures of human osteoblasts. FP receptor mRNA was detected only after 3 weeks of confluency, all the others were detected at every culture time tested. To verify the functionality of these receptors we challenged the cells with the prostanoids and synthetic analogues and determined the intracellular levels of cAMP. All receptors found by RT-PCR were coupled to second messengers except for the DP subtype. These results clearly show the presence of functional EP(4), IP, FP and TP receptors in human osteoblasts in culture.

Expression of cyclooxygenase-2 and prostanoid receptors by human myometrium

Prostanoids play an important role in the regulation of parturition. All reproductive tissues, including fetal membranes, decidua, and myometrium, have the capacity to synthesize prostanoids, and fetal membranes have been shown to express elevated levels of cyclooxygenase-2 (Cox-2) at the onset of labor. We have now investigated the expression of Cox-2 in human myometrium. Myometrial samples collected from women in labor during lower segment cesarean section expressed 15-fold higher levels of Cox-2 messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) compared to myometrial specimens collected from women not in labor, as detected by Northern blot analysis. Immunohistochemical detection of Cox-2 protein showed cytoplasmic staining in the smooth muscle cells of the myometrium. Cultured myometrial cells expressed low levels of Cox-2 mRNA under baseline conditions, but interleukin-1beta (IL-1beta) caused a 17-fold induction of expression of the Cox-2 transcript after incubation for 6 h. IL-1beta also induced expression of biologically active Cox-2 protein, as detected by immunofluorescence, Western blot analysis, and measuring the conversion of arachidonic acid to prostanoids in the presence and absence of a Cox-2-selective inhibitor, NS-398. PGE2 receptor subtype EP2 mRNA was expressed in cultured myometrial smooth muscle cells, whereas transcripts for EP1, EP3, EP4, FP, and IP were low or below the detection limit as measured by Northern blot analysis. However, IL-1beta stimulated expression of EP4 receptor mRNA. Our data suggest that expression of Cox-2 transcript is elevated at the onset of labor in myometrial smooth muscle cells, which may depend on induction by cytokines. As, in addition to Cox-2, the expression of prostanoid receptors is regulated, not only the production of prostanoids, but also responsiveness to them, may be modulated.

Expression of myometrial activation and stimulation genes in a mouse model of preterm labor: myometrial activation, stimulation, and preterm labor

Myometrial contractions of labor result from an increase in myometrial activation and stimulation. Activation develops through the expression of contraction associated proteins (CAPs), including oxytocin receptors (OTR), connexin-43 (Cx-43), and prostaglandin F2 alpha, receptors (FP). Stimulation involves increases in contractile agonists including prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and prostaglandin F2 alpha. (PGF2 alpha) that may result from increases in prostaglandin endoperoxide H synthase (PGHS)-2. A mouse model of preterm birth was used to study gene expression involved in myometrial activation and stimulation. To induce preterm birth, pregnant C57BL/6J mice were intubated with 6 g/kg ethanol on gestational day 16 and were killed every 6 h from treatment until birth. RIA was used to measure uterine PGE2 and PGF2 alpha, while PGHS-2, OTR, Cx-43, and FP messenger RNA levels were measured by ribonuclease protection assay. Increases in CAP mRNA were associated with term and preterm birth. There were differences in stimulation effectors associated with preterm and term birth. Uterine PGF2 alpha values were increased only at the time of term birth, but PGE2 was elevated during both preterm and term labor. These data suggest that existing levels of PGF2 alpha are sufficient for preterm birth when CAP expression is increased, but term labor requires increases in PGE2, PGF2alpha, and CAPs. The PGHS-2 messenger RNA expression pattern suggests that it is a CAP.

The 15-deoxy-delta(12,14)-prostaglandin J(2)receptor, peroxisome proliferator activated receptor-gamma (PPARgamma) is expressed in human gestational tissues and is functionally active in JEG3 choriocarcinoma cells

RNA was extracted from human gestational membranes and villous placental tissue following spontaneous delivery (n = 15) or elective caesarean section (n = 15) at term. The samples were subjected to Northern analysis, using a 2 kb cDNA probe for peroxisome proliferator activated receptor (PPAR)-gamma. The mRNA was detectable in all choriodecidual and villous placental samples, irrespective of mode of delivery, but was only rarely detectable in the amnion. The JEG3 choriocarcinoma cell line also expressed PPARgamma. In order to evaluate PPAR mediated transcriptional activation in JEG3 cells, the cells were transfected with pTK-PPREx3-luc, a PPAR response element (PPRE) containing luciferase reporter construct. Subsequent treatment with 10 microm 15-deoxy-delta(12,14)prostaglandin J(2)(15dPGJ(2)) resulted in an eight-fold stimulation of luciferase production relative to controls transfected with the same construct lacking the PPRE. This stimulation was concentration-dependent. These results suggest roles for PPARgamma and its ligand in lipid, steroid and inflammatory mediator homeostasis and in remodelling of gestational tissues.

Differential regulation of prostaglandin EP and FP receptors in pregnant sheep myometrium and endometrium during spontaneous term labor

In the present study, we characterized the mRNA abundance of prostaglandin E(2) receptor subtypes (EP1 and EP3, which stimulate excitatory responses; EP2 and EP4, which stimulate inhibitory responses) and the FP receptor in pregnant sheep myometrium and endometrium in relation to parturition. Myometrial and endometrial poly(A) RNA was extracted from control ewes at 143-147 days gestational age (dGA, n = 6) and from ewes in spontaneous term labor at 145-147 dGA (n = 6), and was subjected to Northern blot analysis for FP, EP1, EP2, EP3, and EP4 mRNA. Myometrial EP3, EP4, and FP mRNA abundance increased during labor (P<0.05); EP2 mRNA did not change. EP1 mRNA was not detectable in the myometrium. Endometrial EP2 and EP4 mRNA remained unchanged during labor. EP3 mRNA was expressed at a very low level, and EP1 and FP mRNA were not detected in endometrium in any animals studied. In conclusion, there is differential expression in myometrium and endometrium of EP subtypes and FP receptor in relation to labor. Increases in EP3 and FP, together with increased prostaglandin production from intrauterine tissues, may lead to the switch in the myometrial contraction pattern that occurs during labor. These differences within and between myometrium and endometrium may result from different anatomical location, such as longitudinal or circular layers of myometrium, or vascular location.

Induction of prostaglandin I(2) receptor by tumor necrosis factor alpha in osteoblastic MC3T3-E1 cells

Mouse osteoblastic cells MC3T3-E1 produced prostaglandin E(2) via the reaction of cyclooxygenase-2 enzyme induced by tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFalpha). Originally, the mRNA level for prostaglandin I(2) receptor (IP) was low in the cells. However, the addition of TNFalpha brought about a marked increase in the IP mRNA with a lag of about 3 h up to an about 8-fold higher level for 24 h. In addition, the induction of IP was supported by a binding experiment of [(3)H]iloprost (a stable analogue of prostaglandin I(2)). The amount of iloprost bound to the TNFalpha-stimulated cell membranes increased to a saturation level around 30 nM. Dexamethasone, cycloheximide and cyclooxygenase inhibitor suppressed the IP mRNA induction. The finding with the latter two compounds suggested a TNFalpha-dependent de novo synthesis of a protein, which is involved in the IP mRNA induction and may be attributed partially to the induced cyclooxygenase-2.

CNS-specific prostacyclin ligands as neuronal survival-promoting factors in the brain

Prostacyclin (PGI2) is a critical regulator of the cardiovascular system, via dilatation of vascular smooth muscle and inhibition of platelet aggregation (Moncada, S. 1982, Br. J. Pharmacol., 76, 3). Our previous studies demonstrated that a novel subtype of PGI2 receptor, which is clearly distinct from a peripheral subtype in terms of ligand specificity, is expressed in the rostral region of the brain, e.g. cerebral cortex, hippocampus, thalamus and striatum, and that (15R)-16-m-17,18,19,20-tetranorisocarbacyclin (15R-TIC) and 15-deoxy-16-m-17,18,19,20-tetranorisocarbacyclin (15-deoxy-TIC) specifically bind to the central nervous system (CNS)-specific PGI2 receptor. Here, we report that these CNS-specific PGI2 receptor ligands, including PGI2 itself, prevented the neuronal death. They prevented apoptotic cell death of hippocampal neurons induced by high (50%) oxygen atmosphere, xanthine + xanthine oxidase, and serum deprivation. IC50s for neuronal death were approximately 30 and 300 nM for 15-deoxy-TIC and 15R-TIC, respectively, which well correlated with the binding potency for the CNS-specific PGI2 receptor. 6-Keto-PGF1alpha (a stable metabolite of PGI2), peripheral nervous system-specific PGI2 ligands and other prostaglandins (PGs) than PGI2 did not show such neuroprotective effects. In vivo, 15R-TIC protected CA1 pyramidal neurons against ischaemic damage in gerbils. These results indicate that CNS-specific PGI2 ligands have neuronal survival-promoting activity both in vitro and in vivo, and may represent a new type of therapeutic drug for neurodegeneration.

Preservation of Gi coupling of a chimeric EP3/I-type prostaglandin (IP) receptor

For the EP3 subtype of prostaglandin E receptors, different C-terminal splice variants are known, which are coupled to distinct heterotrimeric GTP-binding proteins (G-proteins). To test the hypothesis that the C-terminal domain is essential for the G-protein-coupling specificity of the EP3 receptor, we exchanged the carboxyl-terminal tail of a porcine Gi-coupled EP3 receptor isoform for the corresponding C-terminal part of a Gs-coupled prostaglandin receptor. The porcine EP3 receptor was truncated at a lysine (K350) residue at the end of the seventh transmembrane region, representing the splicing site of the different EP3 receptor isoforms. The wild-type C-terminus (37 amino acids) was substituted by the C-terminal tail (89 amino acids) of the human I-type prostaglandin receptor (hIP-R). The G-protein coupling of the resulting chimeric receptor protein was studied in transfected Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells. Stimulation of the chimeric receptor protein with the EP3 receptor-specific agonist M&B 28.767 did not increase adenosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate (cAMP) formation but did reduce the forskolin-stimulated cAMP formation, indicating Gi coupling. Furthermore, the chimeric receptor did not show constitutive activity as demonstrated for the C-terminally truncated EP3 receptor. Thus, coupling specificity of the EP3 receptor is not exclusively mediated by the carboxyl-terminal tail, and constitutive activity of a C-terminally truncated EP3 receptor can be suppressed by the hIP-R C-terminus.

Prostaglandin receptors in lower segment myometrium during gestation and labor

OBJECTIVE

To determine if expression of relaxatory prostaglandin (PG) E2 receptors (EP2 isoform) and contractile PG F receptors (FP isoform) changes during gestation and with labor in pregnant human myometrium.

METHODS

Lower segment myometrium was removed at cesarean from four groups of parturients (preterm [28-36 weeks] or term [37-41 weeks], either in or not in labor, ten per group). Myometrial RNA was isolated and used for reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis with specific primer sets for human smooth muscle protein calponin and PGEP2 or FP receptor isoform mRNA. Polymerase chain reaction products were electrophoresed on gels and visualized, band intensity was measured, and EP2 and FP receptor expression was normalized to calponin.

RESULTS

Reverse transcription-PCR yielded products of expected sizes, and restriction enzyme cleavage confirmed identities. Prostaglandin EP2 receptor isoform mRNA expression (relative to calponin mRNA) was significantly greater in the preterm, no labor group (1.28+/-0.22, mean +/-standard error of the mean [SE]) compared with the term, no labor group (0.71+/-0.09) (P < .05 Student-Neuman-Kuels) and declined significantly with gestational age in patients not in labor (R = -.446, P = .001). Prostaglandin FP receptor isoform mRNA expression was significantly less in the term, no labor group (0.61+/-0.06) compared with all others (P < .02 Student-Neuman-Kuels). Prostaglandin FP receptor expression declined significantly with gestational age in patients not in labor (R = -.646, P = .012) and increased significantly with labor at term.

CONCLUSION

Changes in prostaglandin EP2 receptor isoform expression are consistent with influence on maintenance of quiescence. Labor at term is associated with a significant increase in FP receptor expression, consistent with influence on contraction. The balance between the two receptor isoforms might mediate myometrial contractility.

Expression of prostacyclin receptors in luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone immortalized neurons: role in the control of hormone secretion

PGs of the E series are involved in the control of LHRH secretion. The present experiments were conducted to clarify whether PGI2 (prostacyclin) might be also involved in such a control, using multiple methodological approaches on immortalized LHRH-secreting neurons. A RT-PCR procedure to detect mouse PGI2 receptor (IP) messenger RNA was first applied, and the results obtained showed the presence of a specific transcript in two cell lines of immortalized LHRH neurons (GT1-1 and GN11 cell lines). Receptor binding assays on membrane preparations from GT1-1 cells showed the presence of a single specific and saturable class of binding sites (Kd = 4.6 nM; 10,000 sites/cell) for [3H]iloprost, a stable analog of PGI2. Competition experiments showed that the binding sites labeled by [3H]iloprost possess the pharmacological characteristics of IP receptors. In functional studies, PGI2 and its analogs, iloprost and cicaprost, were able to stimulate LHRH release from the GT1-1 cells with elevated potencies (EC50 = 0.6-4.3 nM); PGE1 was only slightly less active (EC50 = 28.5 nM), whereas PGE2, considered the major PG involved in LHRH secretion, was poorly effective (EC50 = 921 nM). The relative potencies (EC50) of these compounds in stimulating the intracellular accumulation of cAMP were in line with their LHRH-releasing activities. In conclusion, these results indicate that immortalized LHRH-secreting neurons express IP receptors through which PGI2 may exert relevant effects on LHRH release.

Insulin-induced expression of prostacyclin receptors on platelets is mediated through ADP-ribosylation of Gi alpha protein

The binding of insulin in physiological amounts to human blood platelets, which increases adenylate cyclase-linked prostacyclin receptor numbers on the cell surface, was found to be directly related to the ADP-ribosylation of the Gi alpha. Conversely, resuspension of the insulin-treated platelets in the hormone-free medium decreased both the prostaglandin receptor numbers and ADP-ribosylation of Gi alpha. Furthermore, incubation of platelets with pertussis toxin or its A-protomer, which ADP-ribosylates Gi alpha, also stimulated the binding of the prostanoid. These results suggest that the increase of prostacyclin receptor numbers in platelets is mediated through the ADP-ribosylation of Gi alpha.