How is the level of free arachidonic acid controlled in mammalian cells?

Role of calcium ions in kinin-induced chloride secretion

Electrogenic ion transport across the epithelium lining the descending colon of male Sprague-Dawley rats has been measured under short-circuit conditions. Responses to kallidin (lysylbradykinin) were inhibited by 70% if calcium was removed from the solution bathing the basolateral aspect of the tissue. Under identical conditions responses to prostaglandin E1 and dibutyryl cyclic adenosine monophosphate were not changed. Forskolin, which directly activates the catalytic subunit of adenylate cyclase, was inhibited by 35% by calcium removal, whereas responses to the phosphodiesterase inhibitor isobutylmethylxanthine were inhibited by 45% by the same procedure. In the absence of calcium, strontium could substitute in promoting the chloride secretory events triggered by kallidin. Magnesium ions antagonized the effects of the kinin in the presence of calcium ions in the bathing solution. The effects of kallidin were partially antagonized by verapamil and trifluoperazine and were potentiated by isobutylmethylxanthine. These results, together with earlier evidence, suggest that kinin elicits a chloride secretory response in this epithelium by stimulating the formation of prostaglandins which then activate adenylate cyclase. Extracellular calcium ions appear to have an important role in the proximal part of this cascade for prostaglandin generation. However, biochemical correlates of these biophysical responses presented in the following paper indicate a more complex role for calcium in the genesis of the kinin response.

Differential activation of membrane phospholipid turnover by compound 48/80 and ionophore A23187 in rat mast cells

Membrane phospholipid turnover was investigated during histamine release from rat mast cells. Addition of calcium ionophore A23187 (0.5 microgram/ml) to mast cells prelabeled with [3H]glycerol induced the rapid and progressive increase in phosphatidic acid (PA) and 1,2-diacylglycerol (DG), which was concomitant with the small rise in phosphatidylinositol (PI). Loss of the level in triacylglycerol (TG) was very marked. Polyamine compound 48/80 (5 micrograms/ml) was shown to cause rises in PA, 1,2-DG, and PI without any significant changes in TG. Both stimuli increased incorporation of exogenous [3H]glycerol into phospholipids, indicating the involvement of de novo synthesis in phospholipid metabolism. Studies with [3H]arachidonic acid-labeled mast cells showed an enhanced liberation of radioactive arachidonate and metabolites upon histamine release. There were associated decreases of radioactivity in phosphatidylcholine (PC) and TG when exposed to A23187, while phosphatidylethanolamine (PE) was degraded as a result of 48/80 activation. The transient increases of [3H]arachidonoyl-1,2-DG and PA were caused by 48/80, while A23187 showed a gradual rise in the radioactivity in these two lipid fractions. These findings reflect activation of phospholipase C. When mast cells were activated by low concentrations of A23187 (0.1 microgram/ml) and 48/80 (0.5 microgram/ml), different behaviors of PI metabolism were observed. An early degradation of PI and a subsequent formation of 1,2-DG and PA suggest that the lower concentrations of these agents stimulate the PI cycle initiated by PI breakdown rather than de novo synthesis. These results demonstrate that marked and selective changes in membrane phospholipid metabolism occur during histamine release from mast cells, and that these reactions seem to be controlled by the coordination of degradation and biosynthesis, depending on the type and the concentration of stimulants. A23187 stimulates arachidonate release perhaps via the cleavages of PC and TG, whereas 48/80 liberates arachidonate from PE.

Free fatty acid content and release kinetics as manifestations of cerebral lateralization in mouse brain

Free fatty acid (FFA) content was analyzed in mouse cerebral hemispheres and cerebellum under basal and postdecapitative ischemic conditions. Total FFA content immediately after decapitation (2 s) was about two-fold higher in the left hemisphere than in the right. Marked dissimilarities between hemispheres were also apparent when FFA levels were measured during short periods of ischemia. Whereas in the right side a significant FFA release took place as early as 10 s, no accumulation was detected in the left in the 2-20 s interval. The highest rates of total fatty acid release occurred in the 20-30 s interval in both hemispheres and decreased afterwards (3 min). Individual FFA, especially stearate and arachidonate, differed in their rates of production, the right cerebral hemisphere being more active in releasing arachidonic acid. In cerebellum, FFA levels were lower and accumulation was slower than in cerebrum in both intervals. When subjected to 3 min ischemia, the same difference in FFA levels between right and left hemispheres (50%) was observed in heads kept at 20 or 30 degrees C. The differences between hemispheres are interpreted as manifestations of an inherent lateralization in the regulation of acylation-deacylation reactions of complex lipids.

CNS stimulation and PGE2 release. I. Depolarizing agents

Radioimmunoassayable PGE2 was reliably detected in the ventriculocisternal perfusates of chloralose-urethanized cats (557-1481 pg/min; +/- 1 S.E.). Examination of the levels of PGE2 in sequential 30 min samples for periods of up to 6 h revealed that the basal secretion rates of this prostaglandin did not fluctuate ina statistically significant fashion during this extended interval. The addition of either K+ (50 mM) or veratridine (7.5 X 10(-5) M) were shown to reliably evoke a long lasting increase (190-210%) in radioimmunoassayable PGE2 in the ventriculocisternal superfusates. In the majority of experiments, the elevated PGE2 showed a return to prestimulation levels within 60 min after the removal of the depolarizing agent. The ability of two depolarizing agents which act by different mechanisms to produce PGE2 release, and the likelihood that the stimulus-dependent increases were not due to altered clearance, metabolism or dilution makes it likely that the PGE2 levels in the extravascular-extracellular fluid were elevated secondary to increases in neuronal activity.

The arachidonic acid cascade. The prostaglandins, thromboxanes and leukotrienes

Certain polyunsaturated fatty acids, such as arachidonic acid, are metabolized by oxygenation into a large family of biologically active substances, the prostanoids. These include the prostaglandins, thromboxanes, prostacyclins, leukotrienes and also a number of related compounds. Oxygenation can take place at many different positions of arachidonic acid. A cyclo-oxygenase introduces oxygen at C-11 and converts the resulting peroxy compound into a 9, 11-endoperoxide structure. The cyclic peroxides thus formed, PGG2 and PGH2, are highly potent compounds and are the immediate precursors of the prostaglandins, thromboxanes and prostacyclin. Other enzymes, the lipoxygenases, may instead introduce oxygen at C-5, C-8, C-9, C-12 or C-15: further conversions from, for example, the initially formed 5- or 15-hydroperoxy acids may lead to the leukotrienes. The prostanoids display strong and varied biological activities, and have effects on numerous processes in the body. In some pathological conditions the prostanoids play important roles. For example, certain products of the arachidonic acid cascade are considered to be mediators of the inflammatory response: they are formed during the process, contribute to the symptoms of erythema, vascular leakage, fever, pain and chemotaxis, and inhibition of their biosynthesis can be achieved at different levels by the anti-inflammatory drugs.

Changes in prostaglandin release associated with inhibition of muscle protein synthesis by dexamethasone

Forelimb digit extensor muscles from fed rabbits were incubated in the absence or presence of dexamethasone (100 nM). The presence of dexamethasone decreased the rates of protein synthesis, prostaglandin F2 alpha and prostaglandin E2 release after a time lag of 2.5-3 h. Although intermittent stretching stimulated both protein synthesis and prostaglandin release in the presence of dexamethasone, the absolute activities of both processes were lower in the presence of the steroid than in its absence. It is suggested that the inhibitory action of dexamethasone on muscle protein synthesis in vitro results from its effect on the activity of plasma-membrane phospholipase A2.

Stimulation of prostaglandin synthesis in WI-38 human lung fibroblasts following inhibition of phospholipid acylation by p-hydroxymercuribenzoate

The release of arachidonic acid and its metabolites, prostaglandin E2 and thromboxane A2, from WI-38 human lung fibroblasts was modulated by p-hydroxymercuribenzoate. Exposure to the inhibitor resulted in a dose-dependent decrease in [1-14C]arachidonic acid uptake and incorporation into phospholipids and neutral lipid pools. Activities of lung fibroblast arachidonyl-CoA synthetase and lysolecithin acyltransferase were inhibited by 100 microM p-hydroxymercuribenzoate. [14C]Arachidonic acid labelled fibroblasts exhibited an increased release of [14C]arachidonate and [14C]prostaglandin E2 of 54% and 112%, respectively, when exposed to 100 microM of inhibitor. The stimulatory effects of 8.0 microM delta 1-tetrahydrocannabinol on arachidonate release and prostaglandin E synthesis (Burstein, S., Hunter, S.A., Sedor, C. and Shulman, S. (1982) Biochem. Pharmacol. 31, 2361-2365) were modified by the inclusion of inhibiting agent, resulting in a 608% stimulation in arachidonic acid release, while prostaglandin E2 and thromboxane A2 synthesis increased 894% and 390%, respectively, over levels obtained by untreated cells. The levels of arachidonate metabolites were altered by inhibitor when compared to cells treated with cannabinoid alone. No significant inhibition by delta 1-tetrahydrocannabinol was found on arachidonic uptake in these cells. In unlabelled studies, p-hydroxymercuribenzoate resulted in a profound, dose-dependent stimulation of prostaglandin E synthesis of 1490% at 150 microM inhibitor concentration. These results provide evidence that free arachidonate is reincorporated via acylation, thereby implicating this pathway as a possible control mechanism for the synthesis of arachidonic acid metabolites.

Phosphatidylcholine is the major phospholipid providing arachidonic acid for prostacyclin synthesis in thrombin-stimulated human endothelial cells

Upon incubation for 24 hours with [3H]arachidonic acid (AA, 1 mu Ci/ml), cultured endothelial cells from human umbilical vein incorporated one half of the added radioactivity, mostly into phospholipids (83% of the total cell radioactivity). Distribution of the label between the various phospholipid classes was found to reflect the distribution of endogenous AA. Stimulation with human thrombin (2 U/ml) promoted a rapid release of radioactive material into supernatants, which contained essentially 6-keto-prostaglandin F1 alpha and non-converted AA. This process levelled off at 10 min, at which time phosphatidylcholine displayed a decrease accounting for 3.7% of the total cell radioactivity. Phosphatidylinositol also appeared significantly diminished, but this decrease was almost 2.5 fold less than that observed in phosphatidylcholine. It is concluded that AA availability for prostacyclin biosynthesis is mostly regulated by a phospholipase A2.

Calmodulin content and activity of Ca2+-ATPase and phospholipase A2 in rat Kupffer cells

A protein resembling calmodulin was isolated from non-parenchymal and parenchymal cells of rat liver by affinity chromatography. The biological activity of the purified protein was assessed by the bovine brain cAMP phosphodiesterase assay. A highly sensitive radioimmunoassay as well as the cAMP phosphodiesterase method were employed to determine the calmodulin content of crude extracts from monolayer cultures of rat Kupffer cells and hepatocytes. An ATP-dependent, calmodulin-enhanced calcium transport was demonstrated in a membrane fraction of the non-parenchymal cells. Phospholipase A2 activity specific for 2-arachidonoyl phosphatide and with a pH optimum of 8.1 was measured in homogenized Kupffer cells; it was stimulated by agents previously shown to enhance prostaglandin synthesis in Kupffer cells, e.g. zymosan particles and lipopolysaccharide isolated from Salmonella minnesota. The increase in activity was completely prevented by pretreatment with or simultaneous addition of R 24571, a known calmodulin antagonist. However, if this inhibitor or calmodulin was added to the cell-free extract phospholipase A2 activity was not influenced. Phospholipase A1 activity could be detected at pH 5 only, showing a slight decrease in the homogenate of stimulated macrophages. Acyltransferase activity was high but independent of treatment of the Kupffer cells.

Incorporation of fatty acids into phospholipids in L cells stimulated by antibody

Binding antibodies to surface membranes stimulated incorporation of fatty acids (FA) into phospholipids of L cells. Antibodies stimulated at least a 3.4-fold greater incorporation of arachidonic acid into phosphatidylinositol than into any other class of phospholipid when compared on a molar basis (p less than 0.003). This enhanced incorporation was selective, depending on the character of the FA, because antibodies stimulated the incorporation of arachidonic acid at least 2.4-fold more than oleic acid, palmitic acid or stearic acid (p less than 0.001). Surprisingly, an antibody-stimulated incorporation of palmitic acid into sphingomyelin (SM) was at least 2.2-fold greater than that into any other class of phospholipid (p less than 0.001) and the antibody-stimulated incorporation of palmitic acid into SM was at least 60-fold greater than that of arachidonic acid, stearic or oleic acid (p less than 0.001). Nontoxic doses of ethylenediamine tetraacetic acid (EDTA), dexamethasone, 4-bromophenacylbromide and indomethacin inhibited the antibody-stimulated incorporation of arachidonic acid into cellular phospholipids, principally phosphatidylinositol (PI), and similarly inhibited the antibody stimulation of DNA synthesis. We conclude that when antibody binds to surface antigens on L cells, a rapid and selective incorporation of fatty acids into certain cellular phospholipids occurs, possibly mediated by calcium-dependent phospholipases. Degradation products of arachidonic acid, i.e., prostaglandins, may be important in these antibody stimulation events, as well. These early changes in phospholipid metabolism may serve as an important signal or mechanism for the subsequent stimulation of DNA synthesis in L cells.

Effect of hypoglycemia on the brain free fatty acid level and the uptake of fatty acids by phospholipids

The effect of hypoglycemia on the uptake of [1-14C]arachidonate and [1-14C]oleate into a synaptosomal and microsomal glycerophospholipids was investigated. In the presence of ATP, Mg2+ and CoA, rat brain synaptosomes and microsomes catalyze the transfer of arachidonate and oleate into glycerophospholipids. Arachidonate was mainly incorporated into phosphatidylinositol (PI) and phosphatidylcholine (PC), whereas oleate was incorporated into phosphatidylcholine and phosphatidylethanolamine (PE). Hypoglycemia was produced by intraperitoneal injection of 10 or 100 units of crystalline insulin per kg body weight. Two hours after injection the blood glucose level decreased to 10-20 mg%. The content of brain phospholipids was slightly decreased but the change was not statistically significant. The level of free fatty acids (FFA) was increased. More pronounced and reproducible changes were found when hypoglycemia was produced by injection of 100 units of insulin per/kg body weight. Changes in brain cortex were similar to those observed in microsomes and synaptosomes. Hypoglycemia affected the incorporation of arachidonic acid into glycerophospholipids of brain membranes. Uptake of [1-14C]arachidonate was decreased selectively by 50% (into phosphatidic acid/PA/) when hypoglycemia was produced by injection of 10 units of insulin per kg body weight. The higher dose of insulin 100 units per kg body weight produced a 20% inhibition of arachidonate incorporation into synaptosomal PI and a 13% decrease of incorporation into microsomal phosphatidylcholine. Incorporation of [1-14C]oleate into membrane phospholipids was not changed by hypoglycemic insult. It is proposed that the disturbances in fatty acid level, particularly arachidonate, and decreased uptake of arachidonic acid by synaptosomal glycerophospholipids may be responsible for alteration of membrane function and changes of synaptic processes.

Changes in the platelet phosphoinositides during the first minute after stimulation of washed rabbit platelets with thrombin

Experiments with washed platelets from rabbits demonstrate that stimulation with a low concentration of thrombin (0.1 unit/ml) that causes maximal aggregation and partial release of granule contents does not significantly decrease the amount of phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate [ PtdIns (4,5)P2] at 10s; this contrasts with ADP stimulation. The amount of PtdIns (4,5)P2 was significantly decreased by a higher concentration of thrombin (0.3 unit/ml). Increased turnover of the PtdIns (4,5)P2 at 60s was indicated by changes in labelling with [3H]glycerol in platelets stimulated with both concentrations of thrombin. An unexpected observation with the lower thrombin concentration was a significant increase in the amount of phosphatidylinositol ( PtdIns ) at 10s. This contrasts with data from other laboratories, which indicate that thrombin causes a significant decrease in PtdIns . At 60s, with the lower concentration of thrombin, PtdIns was significantly decreased. With the higher concentration of thrombin there was a significant decrease in the amount of PtdIns at 10s, in keeping with the data from other laboratories. The initial increase in PtdIns may not have been observed by other investigators because higher concentrations of thrombin were used. The reaction involved in this initial increase in the amount of PtdIns does not appear to be increased degradation of PtdIns4P or PtdIns (4,5)P2, since their total amount was unchanged at 10s. The magnitude of the increase in PtdIns is such that more than the existing pool of phosphatidic acid would have to be converted into PtdIns to account for the increase. It is suggested that synthesis of phosphatidic acid de novo from dihydroxyacetone phosphate and glycerol 3-phosphate might be the source of phosphatidic acid, which leads to increased PtdIns at 10s with the lower concentration of thrombin. Thus it appears that the initial response of platelets to thrombin does not require an early change in PtdIns (4,5)P2 and may involve stimulation of synthesis de novo of PtdIns via phosphatidic acid.

Induction by lysophospholipids of CoA-dependent arachidonyl transfer between phospholipids in rat platelet homogenates

Rat platelet homogenates are able to catalyze CoA-mediated, ATP-independent transfer of arachidonic acid from platelet phospholipids to added lysophospholipids. Homogenates of platelets prelabelled with radioactive arachidonic or oleic acid were incubated in the presence of CoA and various lysophospholipids. Transfer observed with arachidonic acid-labelled platelets was dependent on the lysophospholipid added. When 1-alkenyl- or 1-acyllysophosphatidylethanolamine was used, there was a more efficient arachidonyl transfer from phosphatidylcholine than from phosphatidylinositol to the phosphatidylethanolamine fraction. Lysophosphatidylserine also accepted arachidonyl from phosphatidylcholine. Addition of lysophosphatidylcholine resulted in a decrease in the labelling of phosphatidylinositol and to a lesser extent of phosphatidylethanolamine with concomitant transfer to phosphatidylcholine. Lysophosphatidylinositol and lysophosphatic acid did not act as substrate for this transfer reaction. Free, non-radioactive arachidonic acid did not compete for the labelled arachidonic acid transfer. This pathway may play a major role in the synthesis of arachidonyl species of phosphatidylethanolamine and phosphatidylserine and for the arachidonyl transfer to the phosphatidylethanolamine plasmologen in stimulated platelets.

Acyltransferase-catalyzed cleavage of arachidonic acid from phospholipids and transfer to lysophosphatides in macrophages derived from bone marrow. Comparison of different donor- and acceptor substrate combinations

In a previous paper it was shown that in prelabeled murine thymocytes a direct CoA-mediated transfer of arachidonic acid from phosphatidylcholine to lysophosphatidylethanolamine occurs which does not involve the intermediate formation of free fatty acid. The transfer is ATP-independent and is catalyzed by the acyl-CoA: lysophosphatide acyltransferase operating in reverse. In prelabeled thymocytes phosphatidylcholine was the only arachidonoyl donor and lysophosphatidylethanolamine the only lysoacceptor. In murine bone-marrow-derived macrophages a series of CoA-mediated transfer reactions were detected leading to a redistribution of arachidonic acid between phospholipids. Using exogenous substrates a bidirectional transfer from 1-acyl-2-arachidonoylglycerophosphocholine to lysophosphatidylethanolamine occurs. An unidirectional transfer from 1-acyl-2-arachidonoylglycerophosphoinositol to lysophosphatidylcholine and from 1-acyl-2-arachidonoylglycerophosphoinositol to lysophosphatidylethanolamine was observed. Plasmalogenic lysoacceptors generally have a weaker acceptor capacity than the correspondent acyllysophospholipid. In macrophages the CoA-mediated transfer of arachidonoyl moieties is independent of ATP and Mg2+ and is totally inhibited by sodium cholate, indicating that it is catalyzed by the acyl-CoA: lysophosphatide acyltransferase.

Trihydroxytetraenes: a novel series of compounds formed from arachidonic acid in human leukocytes

Addition of 15L-hydroperoxy-5,8,11,13-eicosatetraenoic acid (15-HPETE) to human leukocytes led to the formation of a novel series of compounds containing four conjugated double bonds. The yield of tetraenes was increased approx. 100-fold when ionophore A23187 (5 microM) was added simultaneously with 15-HPETE. The structure of the major tetraene was established by physical methods as well as by chemical degradation and found to be 5,6,15L-trihydroxy-7,9,11,13-eicosatetraenoic acid.

Anti-inflammatory effects of polyamines in serotonin and carrageenan paw edemata - possible mechanism to increase vascular permeability inhibitory protein level which is regulated by glucocorticoids and superoxide radical

Serotonin paw edema of mice and carrageenan paw edema of rats were inhibited by subcutaneously or orally administered certain polyamines. They must be given at least 2 h before serotonin challenge to get inhibitions which were blocked by the concomitant injections of cycloheximide. Thirty percent inhibitory dose (ID30) of polyamines (s.c.) 3 h before serotonin (s.c.) were: spermidine (8 mg/kg), spermine 28 mg/kg) and putrescine (55 mg/kg). Agmatine, cadaverine, ornithine, citrulline, lysine and arginine were not inhibitory even at 200 mg/kg. Three inhibitory polyamines were effective by oral administration but were not inhibitory by local administration into the paws. Intravenous injections of spermidine also required 2 h of lag period for inhibitions. Serotonin edema was inhibited by dexamethasone (1 mg/kg), prednisolone (1 mg/kg) or by superoxide dismutase (SOD, 5 mg/kg) in lag period requiring manner (s.c. and i.v.). High dose of cyclo-oxygenase inhibitors indomethacin and diclofenac sodium, lipo-oxygenase inhibitor BW755C (30 mg/kg s.c., respectively) and phospholipase A2 inhibitor quinacrine (100 mg/kg s.c.) failed to inhibit serotonin edema, suggesting that arachidonate metabolites are not participating in this model. ID30 of polyamines which were administered (s.c. and oral) to rats 3 h before carrageenan and determined at 3 h by paw weight were: spermidine (28 and 100 mg/kg), spermine (18 and 90 mg/kg) and putrescine (both greater than 200 mg/kg). Adrenalectomized rats responded to polyamines just as normal rats. Local vascular permeability, irritancy and acute toxicity were also tested in mice. Polyamines were proved to be glucocorticoid-type anti-inflammatory drugs. Polyamines may be mediators of glucocorticoids for the synthesis of the postulated vascular permeability inhibitory protein (called as 'vasoregulin' for convenience). Anti-inflammatory effect of glucocorticoid is recently explained by its capacity to induce phospholipase A2 inhibitory protein(s) (macrocortin or lipomodulin). However, this hypothesis has not yet been proved by in vivo experiment and our data suggest that there is induction by glucocorticoid of another kind of protein which does not inhibit phospholipase A2 activity.

The effect of oxytocin, estrogen, calcium ionophore A23187 and hydrocortisone on prostaglandin F2 alpha and 6-oxo-prostaglandin F1 alpha production by cultured human endometrial and myometrial explants

Normal human endometrium (classified by histology and date after last menstrual period) was cultured for 72h, and the output of prostaglandin F2 alpha and 6-oxo-prostaglandin F1 alpha detected by radioimmunoassay. Hormones/stimuli were added to the culture during the second day of culture for 5h and 19h periods. The output of prostaglandin F2 alpha from cultured endometrium was significantly higher (p less than 0.05) at the beginning (d4-8) and end (d25-30) of the menstrual cycle, compared to mid-cycle (d13-24) endometrium. Significantly more prostaglandin F2 alpha was released from proliferative than from secretory phase endometrium (p less than 0.02). Prostaglandin F2 alpha release was rapidly stimulated by sodium arachidonate (20-300 micrograms/ml), and by calcium ionophore A23187 (5 micrograms/ml) at an extracellular calcium ion concentration of 1.8mM. The ionophore stimulation was greater in mid-cycle endometrium than in endometrium from the beginning or the end of the menstrual cycle. Estradiol-17 beta (10 ng/ml) gradually increased the output of prostaglandin F2 alpha from secretory phase endometrium, and this stimulation was observed in the post-incubation period after hormone had been removed from the incubation medium. Oxytocin (1 X 10(-5) U/ml caused a more rapid stimulation of prostaglandin F2 alpha output from secretory phase tissue (p less than 0.05 during the first 5h incubation period with hormone). Oxytocin (1 X 10(-5) U/ml) and estradiol (10ng/ml) together significantly stimulated prostaglandin F2 alpha production by proliferative as well as secretory phase endometria. A high dose of hydrocortisone (100 micrograms/ml) inhibited the output of prostaglandin F2 alpha from proliferative and secretory phase endometrium and also from ionophore-stimulated endometrium. However, this dose of hydrocortisone did not inhibit the synthesis of prostaglandin F2 alpha from exogenous arachidonic acid, or the estradiol-induced increase in prostaglandin F2 alpha production. Co-culture of endometrium with myometrium did not modify the output of prostaglandin F2 alpha or of 6-oxo-prostaglandin F1 alpha from cultured tissues. These experiments suggest that arachidonic acid supply to the cyclooxygenase enzyme may vary during the menstrual cycle; and indicate a gradual increase in prostaglandin synthesising capacity in response to estrogen, more rapid control via oxytocin, and an interaction between estrogen and oxytocin to modulate prostaglandin F2 alpha synthesis in human endometrium.

The role of calcium in the regulation of prostacyclin synthesis by porcine aortic endothelial cells

Both bradykinin (EC50 = 8 ng/ml) and the ionophore A23187 (EC50 = 3 X 10(-7) M) potently stimulated arachidonate release and prostaglandin synthesis in porcine aortic endothelial cells. The response to each was completely dependent on extracellular Ca2+ (EC50 = 3 X 10(-7) M); no role for intracellular Ca2+ was noted. The rapid Ca2+ influx prompted by either activator was consistent with the time course for arachidonate release. Whereas the arachidonate released in response to bradykinin was transient, that released in response to A23187 was more prolonged, and paralleled a continued influx of Ca2+. Ca2+ entry elicited by bradykinin was mediated by channels which could not be blocked by verapamil. When Mn2+ was substituted for Ca2+, no stimulation of prostacyclin synthesis was seen in response to A23187; however, the bradykinin response was unaffected. The mechanism of these effects was studied using doses of bradykinin or A23187 which resulted in increases in Ca2+ influx and prostacyclin synthesis of similar magnitude for each agonist. Under these conditions, trifluoperazine blocked elevated prostacyclin synthesis (ID50 = 5-6 X 10(-6) M for each agonist). Trifluoperazine sulfoxide, however, was much less active. Pimozide inhibited bradykinin-stimulated prostacyclin synthesis at low doses (ID50 = 3 X 10(-6) M). Trifluoperazine was much less effective against high doses of A23187 (4 X 10(-6) M). These data suggest that arachidonate release and prostacyclin synthesis are dependent on influx of extracellular calcium and subsequent activation of a Ca2+-dependent phospholipase by a calmodulin-mediated mechanism.

Diacylglycerol potentiates phospholipase attack upon phospholipid bilayers: possible connection with cell stimulation

Many phospholipases of the A or C types show a very limited ability to hydrolyse phospholipids such as phosphatidylcholine or phosphatidylinositol which adopt a bilayer form when hydrated. The addition of unsaturated 1,2 or 1,3 diacylglycerols to such substances produces a marked stimulation of the attack. In contrast, the hydrolysis of phosphatidylethanolamine, which normally exists in the hexagonal II structure, is not stimulated by diacylglycerol. It is suggested that the liberation of diacylglycerol which often occurs during cell stimulation, may play a part in activating the associated cascade of phospholipid reactions.

Phosphatidylinositol hydrolysis in isolated guinea-pig islets of Langerhans

Previous studies have reported an increased turnover of phospholipid in isolated islets of Langerhans in response to raised glucose concentrations. The present investigation was thus undertaken to determine the nature of any phospholipases that may be implicated in this phenomenon by employing various radiolabelled exogenous phospholipids. Hydrolysis of 1-acyl-2-[14C]arachidonoylglycerophosphoinositol by a sonicated preparation of islets optimally released radiolabelled lysophosphatidylinositol, arachidonic acid and 1,2-diacylglycerol at pH 5,7 and 9 respectively. This indicates the presence of a phospholipase A1 and a phospholipase C. However, the lack of any labelled lysophosphatidylinositol production when 2-acyl-1-[14C]stearoylglycerophosphoinositol was hydrolysed argues against a role for phospholipase A2 in the release of arachidonic acid. Phospholipase C activity as measured by phosphatidyl-myo-[3H]inositol hydrolysis was optimal around pH8, required Ca2+ for activity and was predominantly cytosolic in origin. The time course of phosphatidylinositol hydrolysis at pH 6 indicated a precursor-product relationship for 1,2-diacylglycerol and arachidonic acid respectively. The release of these two products when phosphatidylinositol was hydrolysed by either islet or acinar tissue was similar. However, phospholipase A1 activity was 20-fold higher in acinar tissue. Substrate specificity studies with islet tissue revealed that arachidonic acid release from phosphatidylethanolamine and phosphatidylcholine was only 8% and 2.5% respectively of that from phosphatidylinositol. Diacylglycerol lipase was also demonstrated in islet tissue being predominantly membrane bound and stimulated by Ca2+. The availability of non-esterified arachidonic acid in islet cells could be regulated by changes in the activity of a phosphatidylinositol-specific phospholipase C acting in concert with a diacylglycerol lipase.

The possible involvement of prostaglandin F2 alpha in the stimulation of muscle protein synthesis by insulin

The addition of insulin (8 ng/ml) in vitro to muscles from fasted rabbits increased protein synthesis (+80%) to a value similar to that found in muscles from fed donors. The addition of either indomethacin or meclofenamate completely blocked this effect of insulin. Muscles from fasted rabbits released less prostaglandin (PG)F2 alpha into the medium and the presence of insulin increased and indomethacin and meclofenamate reduced PGF2 alpha release. Other conditions (work load and leucocyte pyrogen) which increase protein synthesis in muscle also stimulate PGF2 alpha release. As both arachidonic acid and PGF2 alpha in themselves increase protein synthesis we suggest that accelerated phospholipolysis and PG synthesis have a general role in the control of muscle protein turnover.

Surface-active phospholipase A2 in mouse spermatozoa

The partial characterization of a calcium-dependent phospholipase A2 associated with membranes of mouse sperm is described. Intact and sonicated sperm had comparable phospholipase A2 activity which was maximal at pH 8.0 using [1-14C]oleate-labeled autoclaved Escherichia coli or 1-[1-14C]stearoyl-2-acyl-3-sn-glycerophosphorylethanolamine as substrates. More than 90% of the activity was sedimented when the sperm sonicate was centrifuged at 100 000 X g, indicating that the enzyme is almost totally membrane-associated. The activity is stimulated 200% during the ionophore-induced acrosome reaction and is almost equally distributed between plasma/outer acrosomal and inner acrosomal membrane fractions. The membrane-associated phospholipase A2 had an absolute requirement for low concentrations of Ca2+; Sr2+, Mg2+ and other divalent and monovalent cations would not substitute for Ca2+. In the presence of optimal Ca2+, zinc and gold ions inhibited the activity while Cu2+ and Cd2+ were without effect. Incubation of sperm sonicates with 1-[1-14C]stearoyl-2-acyl-3-sn-glycerophosphorylethanolamine in the presence and absence of sodium deoxycholate demonstrated the presence of phospholipase A2 and lysophospholipase activities. No phospholipase A1 activity was detectable. Indomethacin, sodium meclofenamate and mepacrine, but not dexamethasone or aspirin, inhibited the sperm phospholipase A2 activity. Preincubation with p-bromophenacyl bromide inhibited phospholipase A2, suggesting the presence of histidine at the active site. The enzyme may play an important role in the membrane fusion events in fertilization.

Consequences of cell membrane attack by complement: release of arachidonate and formation of inflammatory derivatives

Treatment of [3H]arachidonic acid [( 3H]C20:4)-labeled and antibody-sensitized Ehrlich ascites tumor cells with guinea pig or rabbit serum complement (C) released up to about 20 or 25% of the incorporated [3H]C20:4 into the aqueous phase as a consequence of C-induced hydrolysis of cellular phospholipid. The dose-response curve of release of [3H]C20:4 from Ehrlich ascites tumor cells, with respect to C, was approximately in the same range as the cytolytic response. In the case of [3H]C20:4-labeled and antibody-sensitized peritoneal mouse macrophages, treatment with C induced release of about 11% of the incorporated 3H as C20:4 and about 6% as prostaglandins, thromboxane B2, and hydroxyicosatetraenoic acids. C6- and C8-deficient rabbit and human sera, respectively, induced release of small amounts of [3H]C20:4 from Ehrlich ascites tumor cells and macrophages; these deficient sera also released traces of oxygenated derivatives from macrophages. Addition of purified C6 or C8 effectively restored release from both cell types, indicating that the terminal C proteins, up to and including C8, are required for the major part of the release. Our results do not rule out a possible requirement for C9.

Effect of fatty acid anilides on the generation of arachidonic acid by human polymorphonuclear leukocytes

The addition of oleoylanilide or linoleylanilide to human polymorphonuclear leukocytes induces a time- and dose-dependent generation of arachidonic acid. Half-maximal effect is caused by a dose of 0.2 mg linoleylanilide/ml. Fatty acid anilides also produce a time- and dose-dependent inhibition of the synthesis of triacylglycerol. Half-maximal effect is caused by 1 microgram linoleylanilide/ml. These results indicate that fatty acid anilides, which have been found in the illegal cooking oil which intoxicated thousands of Spaniards, alter lipid metabolism in human polymorphonuclear leukocytes.

Turnover of lipid-bound arachidonate and biosynthesis of prostanoids in the endometrium and myometrium of the laying hen

In vitro incorporation of [3H]arachidonate into various lipid fractions of minced avian endometrium and myometrium has shown that (i) phospholipids and triacylglycerols are labeled preferentially, whereas labeling of cholesteryl esters is only marginal; (ii) acylation reactions with arachidonoyl residues are very rapid in these tissues; (iii) incorporation of arachidonate into phosphatidylcholine and phosphatidylethanolamine seems to be a one-step reaction, whereas the transfer of arachidonate to phosphatidylinositol and phosphatidylserine proceeds after a time lag, suggesting that intermediate reaction steps are involved; and (iv) under conditions where tissue differences in free arachidonate levels are diminished by adding radioinert arachidonate to the incubation medium, endometrium incorporates more than twice as much [3H]arachidonate/unit of phospholipids than does the myometrium, whereas there is no such tissue-specific difference in the labeling of triacylglycerols. Furthermore, after a 90-min incubation phosphatidylserine and phosphatidylinositol not only are labeled markedly higher than either phosphatidylcholine or phosphatidylethanolamine in both tissues but the tissue-specific difference is also the highest (2.4- to 2.8-fold in the case of these phospholipids). Prostanoid synthesis from [3H]arachidonate in a crude membrane preparation in vitro has demonstrated that the myometrium possesses a significantly higher prostanoid-synthesizing capacity than the endometrium. This difference is particularly apparent (about 2.5-fold) in the case of prostaglandin E2. The results suggest that the endometrium is endowed with a special capacity to respond to signals with a rapid alteration of the level of free arachidonic acid, whereas the myometrium has the specific capacity to amplify its own contractions by an increased production of prostaglandins.

Protein synthesis in isolated rabbit forelimb muscles. The possible role of metabolites of arachidonic acid in the response to intermittent stretching

Protein synthesis was measured in isolated intact rabbit muscles by the incorporation of [3H]phenylalanine added at a high concentration (2.5 mM) to the incubation medium. Intermittent mechanical stretching substantially increased the rate of protein synthesis relative to that in control muscles incubated under a constant tension. Indomethacin and meclofenamic acid, inhibitors of the enzyme cyclo-oxygenase, which converts free arachidonic acid into the prostaglandins, prostacyclins and thromboxanes, decreased the rate of protein synthesis in intermittently stretched muscles, but had no effect on synthesis rates in the unstimulated controls. Arachidonic acid at concentrations of 0.2 and 1.0 microM gave a highly significant increase in the rate of protein synthesis in muscles incubated under a constant tension. The ability of arachidonic acid to increase protein-synthesis rates was abolished by the addition of indomethacin. Activation of protein synthesis by intermittent stretching persisted for 10-20 min after the stretch stimulation had ceased. Indomethacin, added either during the initial incubation with intermittent stretching or during the subsequent period when protein synthesis was measured after stimulation had ceased, decreased protein-synthesis rates. This decrease was similar whether indomethacin was present during the initial, final or entire incubation period. In experiments analogous with those in (4) above, when Ca2+ was withheld and EGTA added for the entire incubation, rates of protein synthesis were again decreased. The rates of protein synthesis observed when Ca2+ was present during either an initial stimulation phase or a final, unstimulated, measurement phase were similar, and were intermediate between control rates and those in muscles incubated without Ca2+ for the whole experiment. Two prostaglandins, F2 alpha (2.8 microM) and A1 (28 microM), increased rates of protein synthesis in unstimulated muscles, but prostaglandins E2 and D2 and the leukotrienes C4 and D4 failed to do so. It is concluded that the stretch-stimulated increase in protein synthesis may be caused by activation of membrane phospholipases, release of arachidonic acid and a consequent increase in prostaglandin synthesis.

Arachidonate incorporation and prostaglandin production in cultured endothelial and smooth muscle cells from pig aorta

In order to investigate the utilization of arachidonic acid by vascular cells, we have compared cultured endothelial and smooth muscle cells from piglet aorta, after a 24 hour incubation with [ 3H ]-arachidonic acid [( 3H ] -AA). We studied both the release of labeled cyclo-oxygenase products, and the distribution of the radioactive fatty acid among lipids as determined by thin layer chromatography. As already described by others the main prostaglandins (PG) released by endothelial cells were PGF2 alpha and 6 keto-PGF1 alpha whereas smooth muscle cells mainly produced PGE2. These differences were associated with marked modification of the radioactivity distribution among the various lipid classes. In particular, the proportion of [ 3H ] -AA incorporated into neutral lipids was much more important in smooth muscle than in endothelial cells (approximately 40% of the total incorporated radioactivity versus 8%). On the other hand, the distribution of [ 3H ] -oleic acid into cell lipids after a 24 hour incorporation was very similar in both types of cells. These results suggest the existence of precise mechanisms controlling the incorporation and the availability of the PG precursor in the various types of cells. This might in part explain the differences observed for different cell types in the PG secretion pattern.

Bradykinin-stimulated electrolyte secretion in rabbit and guinea pig intestine. Involvement of arachidonic acid metabolites

Bradykinin (BK) increases short-circuit current (Isc) when added to the serosal side of rabbit or guinea pig ileum or rabbit colon. Significant effects on Isc are seen at concentrations as low as 10(-10) M. Anion substitution experiments and unidirectional 36Cl flux measurements indicate that this effect of BK on Isc is due to Cl secretion. The effect of BK on Isc can be partially blocked (60-70% inhibition) by cyclooxygenase inhibitors (indomethacin and/or naproxen) and completely blocked by the phospholipase inhibitor, mepacrine. The combined cyclooxygenase/lipoxygenase inhibitors BW 755 and eicosa-5,8,11,14-tetraynoic acid (ETYA) also completely block the effect of BK on Isc but the slow-reacting substance of anaphylaxis (SRS-A) antagonist FPL 55712 has no effect. None of the above inhibitors diminish the effect on Isc of other exogenously added secretory stimuli such as vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP), theophylline, or prostaglandin E2 (PGE2). Prior desensitization of rabbit ileum to PGE2 blocks the effect on Isc of BK but not those of VIP or theophylline. Conversely, prior desensitization of rabbit ileum to BK greatly reduces the effect of PGE2 on Isc. BK also stimulates the synthesis of PGE2 in rabbit ileal and colonic mucosa and this effect can be blocked by prior addition of either indomethacin or mepacrine. These effects of BK are similar to those of exogenously added arachidonic acid (AA). AA also stimulates Cl secretion and increases PGE2 synthesis and its effect on Isc can be inhibited by prior desensitization to PGE2 or by prior addition of indomethacin. The above results indicate that BK stimulates active Cl secretion in both small and large intestine and suggest that this effect is due to the intracellular release of AA. Although the prostaglandins appear to be the major products of AA metabolism contributing to the secretory response, lipoxygenase products may also play a role.

Arachidonic acid uptake into and release from guinea-pig endometrium in vitro on days 7 and 15 of the oestrous cycle

Endometrium from guinea-pigs on Days 7 and 15 of the oestrous cycle (days of low and high endometrial prostaglandin F2 alpha production, respectively) was maintained in tissue culture for periods up to 24 h (uptake experiments) or 48 h (release experiments). Tritiated arachidonic acid (3H-AA) was incorporated into endometrial phospholipids and neutral lipids in a time-dependent manner. After 24 h of culture, phosphatidylcholine (PC) and phosphatidylethanolamine (PE) were the major phospholipids, and triglyceride (TG) was the major neutral lipid which had incorporated 3H-AA. PC, PE and phosphatidylserine/phosphatidylinositol (PS/PI) incorporated significantly more 3H-AA on Day 15 than on Day 7. TG also incorporated more 3H-AA on Day 15 than on Day 7, but the increase was not statistically significant. Tritiated oleic acid (3H-OA) was incorporated into endometrial phospholipids and neutral lipids in a time-dependent manner. No increase in uptake of 3H-OA occurred on Day 15 compared to Day 7. There appears to be a specific stimulation of the mechanisms involved in the uptake of arachidonic acid into guinea-pig endometrium (particularly into the phospholipids) at the end of the oestrous cycle. There was little apparent release of 3H-AA from any endometrial lipid class, except diglyceride (DG) and monoglyceride (MG), on Day 7. In contrast, there was an apparent 50 to 80% decrease in the 3H-AA content of several endometrial lipid classes, particularly PC, PE and TG, on Day 15. Overall, the uptake and release studies suggest that PC, PE and possibly TG form the source of free arachidonic acid for PGF2 alpha synthesis by the guinea-pig endometrium.

Characterization of phospholipase A2 activity in rat aorta smooth muscle cells

Phospholipase A activity was measured in homogenates and acid extracts of smooth muscle cells from rat aorta and mesenteric artery using [1-14 C]oleate-labeled autoclaved Escherichia coli and 1-[1-14C]stearyl-2-acyl-3-sn-glycerophosphorylethanolamine as substrates. The results demonstrate the presence of neutral-active phospholipase(s) A that exclusively catalyze the release of fatty acid from the 2-position of phospholipids. Optimal activity was at pH 7.5, and there was an absolute requirement for low concentrations of Ca2+. Mg2+ did not substitute for Ca2+, and EGTA inhibited the activity. Phospholipase A2 activity was predominantly membrane-associated and was solubilized by homogenization in 0.18 N H2SO4. Sulfuric acid extracts of rat aortic smooth muscle cells were four times more active than extracts of mesenteric artery (710 vs. 170 nmol/h per mg protein). By comparison, acid extracts of rat lung, heart, and liver were less active (60-75 nmol/h per mg). Indomethacin, sodium meclofenamate, mepacrine and chlorpromazine, but not dexamethasone or aspirin, inhibited acid-solubilized phospholipase(s) A2 between 10(-6) and 10(-3) M in a dose-dependent manner. Preincubation with p-bromophenacyl bromide or diethylpyrocarbonate inhibited phospholipase(s) A2, suggesting the presence of a histidine residue at the active site. An extract from the leaves of feverfew plant (Tanacetum parthenium) was also a potent inhibitor of aortic smooth muscle phospholipase(s) A2.

Ethanol, essential fatty acids and prostaglandins

In the body the essential fatty acid (EFA) linoleic acid (18:2, omega-6) is desaturated and chain elongated to form homo-gamma-linoleic acid (20:3, omega-6) and arachidonic acid (20:4, omega-6). Apart from their structural function in cell membranes, the EFAs serve as precursors to the prostaglandins and related substances. The prostaglandins can, in general terms, be described as a defensive regulatory system of importance for cardiovascular, gastrointestinal and urogenital function. Acute intake of ethanol gives facial flushing, inhibition of platelet aggregation and elevation of tissue c-AMP. These effects are consistent with release of vasodilatory and antiaggregating PGs. In epidemiological studies, moderate ethanol intake offers some protection against coronary heart disease. Chronic intake high doses of ethanol is associated with damage to, e.g., liver, heart, brain, immunoregulation and various hormonal systems. Decreased tissue levels of 18:2, 20:4 and PGs have been observed both in animals and man. The conversion of 18:2 to 20:4 is inhibited by chronic ethanol exposure. It is suggested that ethanol depletes the PG precursor pool by a dual mechanism of releasing precursor acids and by inhibiting their synthesis. This would lead to a functional EFA-deficiency, manifested by a hypoactive PG system.

Proteolytic activation can produce a phosphatidylinositol phosphodiesterase highly sensitive to Ca2+

The phosphatidylinositol phosphodiesterase of rat brain shows little activity under conditions likely to pertain in vivo (neutral pH and micromolar Ca(2+) concentrations). A short incubation of a brain supernatant with trypsin, or a longer pre-incubation of the supernatant alone, produce new forms of the enzyme, which are active under such conditions. A possible role of receptor-linked proteinases in initiating phosphatidylinositol catabolism is discussed.