Identification of an AII(3-8) [AIV] binding site in guinea pig hippocampus

Norleucine1-Angiotensin IV alleviates mecamylamine-induced spatial memory deficits

The brain angiotensin AT4 receptor subtype has been implicated in cognitive processing. We initially established that intracerebroventricular administration of the nAChR-antagonist mecamylamine (mec) interfered with spatial memory performance in male Sprague-Dawley rats. Next we demonstrated that mec-induced deficits in spatial memory were overcome by the AT4 receptor-agonist Norleucine1-Angiotensin IV (Nle1-Ang IV). Nle1-Ang IV could not, however, compensate for spatial learning impairments precipitated by both mec and the mAChR-antagonist scopolamine. These findings support the importance of the AT4 receptor in cognitive processing and suggest that the ability of Nle1-Ang IV to improve spatial memory deficiencies may be dependant upon the brain cholinergic system.

AT4 receptor binding in the developing rabbit

The binding of the AT(4)-specific analog, divalinal-AngIV (Dival), was studied in rabbit fetuses of various gestational ages. Saturation isotherm and competition data from selected tissues indicate that fetal Dival binding sites are saturable and specific for AT(4) ligands. Autoradiographs revealed that binding was present in all the specimens examined. The peripheral nerves, kidneys, and heart were particularly heavily labeled. Labeling of some tissues, such as forming bones, was not constant as gestational age increased. Other tissues, including multilocular fat, sinus hairs, and enamel organs of nascent teeth, exhibited substantial binding as these tissues developed.

Effect of I.C.V. injection of AT4 receptor ligands, NLE1-angiotensin IV and LVV-hemorphin 7, on spatial learning in rats

Central administration of angiotensin IV (Ang IV) or its analogues enhance performance of rats in passive avoidance and spatial memory paradigms. The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of a single bolus injection of two distinct AT4 ligands, Nle1-Ang IV or LVV-haemorphin-7, on spatial learning in the Barnes circular maze. Mean number of days for rats treated with either Nle1-Ang IV or LVV-haemorphin-7 to achieve learner criterion is significantly reduced compared with controls (P < 0.001 and P < 0.05 respectively). This is due to enhanced ability of the peptide-treated rats to adopt a spatial strategy for finding the escape hatch. In all three measures of learning performance, (1) the number of errors made, (2) the distance travelled and (3) the latency in finding the escape hatch, rats treated with either 100 pmol or 1 nmol of Nle1-Ang IV or 100 pmol LVV-haemorphin-7 performed significantly better than the control groups. As early as the first day of testing, the rats treated with the lower dose of Nle1-Ang IV or LVV-haemorphin-7 made fewer errors (P < 0.01 and P < 0.05 respectively) and travelled shorter distances (P < 0.05 for both groups) than the control animals. The enhanced spatial learning induced by Nle1-Ang IV (100 pmol) was attenuated by the co-administration of the AT4 receptor antagonist, divalinal-Ang IV (10 nmol). Thus, administration of AT4 ligands results in an immediate potentiation of learning, which may be associated with facilitation of synaptic transmission and/or enhancement of acetylcholine release.

Angiotensin IV interacts with a juxtamembrane site on AT(4)/IRAP suggesting an allosteric mechanism of enzyme modulation

Angiotensin IV (Ang IV), the 3-8 fragment of angiotensin II, binds to a specific receptor (AT(4)) that has recently been identified as the transmembrane aminopeptidase insulin-regulated aminopeptidase (IRAP) based on the fact that the two proteins share several pharmacological and biochemical properties. Our binding studies indicated that bovine heart expresses relatively large amounts (1.2 pmol/mg protein) of high-affinity binding sites for Ang IV (K(d)=1.8 nM). A photoaffinity-labeling approach combined with mild trypsin digestion revealed that the AT(4) receptor of bovine heart is a single transmembrane domain protein (153 kDa) with a large extracellular fragment (143 kDa). After alkaline denaturation of the AT(4) receptor, trypsin digestion produced two small membrane-associated fragments (16.9 and 6.6 kDa). These results suggest that Ang IV interacts with a juxtamembrane domain of AT(4) receptor. The location of the juxtamembrane site of contact was different from that of the active site of IRAP, suggesting that Ang IV uses an allosteric mechanism to modulate the activity of the AT(4)/IRAP.

Ethanol-induced suppression of LTP can be attenuated with an angiotensin IV analog

Hippocampal slices taken from animals chronically or acutely treated with ethanol exhibit significant inhibition of long-term potentiation (LTP). This inhibition appears to be associated with impaired activity of N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors, perhaps via ethanol-induced increases in GABAergic synaptic transmission. Recently, a role for the octapeptide angiotensin II (AngII) in ethanol's inhibition of LTP has been reported. Complementary to these findings our laboratory has shown that the application of the hexapeptide metabolite of AngII, angiotensin IV (AngIV), significantly facilitated normal tetanic-induced LTP in the hippocampal slice. This facilitation is presumably by activation of the angiotensin receptor subtype, AT(4). The present study tested whether an AT(4) receptor agonist could overcome ethanol-induced suppression of LTP. The results indicate that Nle(1)-AngIV could offset ethanol-induced suppression of LTP in the CA(1) region of the hippocampus. Pretreatment with the specific AT(4) receptor antagonist Nle(1), Leual(3)-AngIV blocked this facilitation implicating the involvement of the AT(4) receptor subtype. These results suggest that an AT(4) receptor agonist is effective in overcoming ethanol's suppressing influence on LTP, and encourage further investigation of the cognitive enhancing properties of such compounds.

Characterization of a new selective antagonist for angiotensin-(1-7), D-pro7-angiotensin-(1-7)

Angiotensin-(1-7) [Ang-(1-7)] has biological actions that can often be distinguished from those of angiotensin II (Ang II). Recent studies indicate that the effects of Ang-(1-7) are mediated by specific receptor(s). We now report the partial characterization of a new antagonist selective for Ang-(1-7), D-Pro7-Ang-(1-7). D-Pro7-Ang-(1-7) (50 pmol) inhibited the hypertensive effect induced by microinjection of Ang-(1-7) [4+/-1 vs 21+/-2 mm Hg, 25 pmol Ang-(1-7) alone] into the rostral ventrolateral medulla without changing the effect of Ang II (16+/-2.5 vs 19+/-2.5 mm Hg after 25 pmol Ang II alone). At 10(-7) mol/L concentration, it completely blocked the endothelium-dependent vasorelaxation produced by Ang-(1-7) (10(-10) to 10(-6) mol/L) in the mouse aorta. The antidiuresis produced by Ang-(1-7) (40 pmol/100 g body weight) in water-loaded rats was also blocked by its analog [1 microg/100 g body weight; 3.08+/-0.8 vs 1.27+/-0.33 mL in Ang-(1-7)-treated rats]. D-Pro7-Ang-(1-7) at a molar ratio of 40:1 did not change the hypotensive effect of bradykinin. Moreover, D-Pro7-Ang-(1-7) did not affect the dipsogenic effect produced by intracerebroventricular administration of Ang II (11.4+/-1.15 vs 8.8+/-1.2 mL/h after Ang II) and did not show any demonstrable angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitory activity in assays with the synthetic substrate Hip-His-Leu and rat plasma as a source of enzyme. Autoradiography studies with 125I-Ang-(1-7) in mouse kidney slices showed that D-Pro7-Ang-(1-7) competed for the binding of Ang-(1-7) to the cortical supramedullary region. In Chinese hamster ovary cells stably transfected with the AT1 receptor subtype, D-Pro7-Ang-(1-7) did not compete for the specific binding of 125I-Ang-II in concentrations up to 10(-6) mol/L. There was also no significant displacement of Ang II binding to angiotensin type 2 receptors in membrane preparations of adrenal medulla. These data indicate that D-Pro7-Ang-(1-7) is a selective antagonist for Ang-(1-7), which can be useful to clarify the functional role of this heptapeptide.

AT4 receptor is insulin-regulated membrane aminopeptidase: potential mechanisms of memory enhancement

Although angiotensin IV (Ang IV) was thought initially to be an inactive product of Ang II degradation, it was subsequently shown that the hexapeptide markedly enhances learning and memory in normal rodents and reverses the memory deficits seen in animal models of amnesia. These central nervous system effects of Ang IV are mediated by binding to a specific site, known as the AT(4) receptor, which is found in appreciable levels throughout the brain and is concentrated particularly in regions involved in cognition. This field of research was redefined by the identification of the AT(4) receptor as the transmembrane enzyme, insulin-regulated membrane aminopeptidase (IRAP). Here, we explore the potential mechanisms by which Ang IV binding to IRAP leads to the facilitation of learning and memory.

Neural plasticity and the brain renin-angiotensin system

The brain renin-angiotensin system mediates several classic physiologies including body water balance, maintenance of blood pressure, cyclicity of reproductive hormones and sexual behaviors, and regulation of pituitary gland hormones. In addition, angiotensin peptides have been implicated in neural plasticity and memory. The present review initially describes the extracellular matrix (ECM) and the roles of cell adhesion molecules (CAMs), matrix metalloproteinases, and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases in the maintenance and degradation of the ECM. It is the ECM that appears to permit synaptic remodeling and thus is critical to the plasticity that is presumed to underlie mechanisms of memory consolidation and retrieval. The interrelationship among long-term potentiation (LTP), CAMs, and synaptic strengthening is described, followed by the influence of angiotensins on LTP. There is strong support for an inhibitory influence by angiotensin II (AngII) and a facilitory role by angiotensin IV (AngIV), on LTP. Next, the influences of AngII and IV on associative and spatial memories are summarized. Finally, the impact of sleep deprivation on matrix metalloproteinases and memory function is described. Recent findings indicate that sleep deprivation-induced memory impairment is accompanied by a lack of appropriate changes in matrix metalloproteinases within the hippocampus and neocortex as compared with non-sleep deprived animals. These findings generally support an important contribution by angiotensin peptides to neural plasticity and memory consolidation.

L-158,809 and (D-Ala(7))-angiotensin I/II (1-7) decrease PAI-1 release from human umbilical vein endothelial cells

The endothelium is a major source of plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1), which plays a critical role in the regulation of fibrinolysis. There are many reports on the increase in the expression of PAI-1 by angiotensin II (Ang II). In the present study, we investigated the effects of angiotensin-related substances on the release of PAI-1 from human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). Ang II increased PAI-1 and tissue plasminogen activator (t-PA) release, while its metabolite angiotensin-(1-7) (Ang-(1-7)) amino acid fragment decreased them. Angiotensin Type 1 (AT1) receptor antagonist, L-158,809 (L-1), and Ang-(1-7) receptor antagonist, (D-Ala(7))-angiotensin I/II (1-7) (D-Ala), decreased PAI-1 and t-PA release; angiotensin Type 2 (AT2) antagonist, PD123,319 (PD), however, did not have any effects on the release of PAI-1 and t-PA. The addition of the equal concentration or 10-times-higher concentration of L-1 to Ang II did not change PAI-1 release compared to that by Ang II. Although Ang-(1-7) and L-1 decreased PAI-1 release, there were no additional effects on the decrease of the amounts of PAI-1 by the mixture of Ang-(1-7) and the equal concentration or 10-times-higher concentration of L-1 compared to those by Ang-(1-7). The equal concentration of D-Ala to Ang II did not change the amounts of PAI-1, but the addition of the 10-times-higher concentration of D-Ala to Ang II resulted in significant decrease of the amounts of PAI-1 compared to those by Ang II. The addition of equal concentration or 10-times-higher concentration of D-Ala to Ang-(1-7) showed the significant decrease of the amounts of PAI-1 compared to those by Ang-(1-7). In conclusion, L-158,809 and (D-Ala(7))-angiotensin I/III (1-7) may be used as profibrinolytic drugs.

Extracellular matrix molecules, long-term potentiation, memory consolidation and the brain angiotensin system

Considerable evidence now suggests an interrelationship among long-term potentiation (LTP), extracellular matrix (ECM) reconfiguration, synaptogenesis, and memory consolidation within the mammalian central nervous system. Extracellular matrix molecules provide the scaffolding necessary to permit synaptic remodeling and contribute to the regulation of ionic and nutritional homeostasis of surrounding cells. These molecules also facilitate cellular proliferation, movement, differentiation, and apoptosis. The present review initially focuses on characterizing the ECM and the roles of cell adhesion molecules (CAMs), matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs), in the maintenance and degradation of the ECM. The induction and maintenance of LTP is described. Debate continues over whether LTP results in some form of synaptic strengthening and in turn promotes memory consolidation. Next, the contribution of CAMs and TIMPs to the facilitation of LTP and memory consolidation is discussed. Finally, possible roles for angiotensins, MMPs, and tissue plasminogen activators in the facilitation of LTP and memory consolidation are described. These enzymatic pathways appear to be very important to an understanding of dysfunctional memory diseases such as Alzheimer's disease, multiple sclerosis, brain tumors, and infections.

A role for the angiotensin AT4 receptor subtype in overcoming scopolamine-induced spatial memory deficits

There is increasing interest in the role of the brain angiotensin AT4 receptor subtype in cognitive processing. This receptor subtype is activated by angiotensin IV (AngIV), is heavily distributed in the mammalian hippocampus, neocortex, and cerebellum, and has been linked with a learning and memory function. The present investigation utilized intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.)-infused scopolamine hydrobromide (scop), a muscarinic receptor antagonist, to disrupt acquisition of the circular water maze task of spatial memory. All animals received 2 days of training trials (five trials/day) using a visible platform in an effort to preclude subsequent confounding by scopolamine-induced sensory and/or motor impairments. In the first experiment, i.c.v.-infused scopolamine (70 nmol) was followed by 0, 10, 100, or 1000 pmol i.c.v. doses of Nle(1)-AngIV in separate groups of rats. Results indicated that each dose of Nle(1)-AngIV improved the poor acquisition of this task induced by scopolamine treatment. However, the 100- and 1000-pmol doses were most effective with respect to latency and distance to find the submerged pedestal. A second experiment demonstrated that treatment with a specific AT4 receptor antagonist, Nle(1), Leual(3)-AngIV (1000 pmol), blocked the ability of Nle(1)-AngIV (100 pmol) to improve the performance of scopolamine-compromised rats. These results support the notion that hippocampal AT4 receptors are involved in spatial memory processing, and that activation of these binding sites can overcome the disruption of spatial memory accompanying treatment with a muscarinic receptor antagonist.

Angiotensin IV induces tyrosine phosphorylation of focal adhesion kinase and paxillin in proximal tubule cells

Angiotensin IV (ANG IV), the COOH-terminal hexapeptide fragment of angiotensin II (ANG II), binds to specific sites in the kidney, distinct from type 1 (AT(1)) and type 2 (AT(2)) receptors and designated type 4 (AT(4)) receptors. We determined signaling pathways for ANG IV in a proximal tubular cell line, LLC-PK(1)/Cl(4). In these cells, we found no specific binding of [(125)I]-ANG II. In contrast, ANG IV dose dependently competed for [(125)I]-labeled ANG IV binding, with no displacement by either ANG II, the AT(1) receptor antagonist losartan, or the AT(2) antagonist PD-123319. Saturation binding indicated the presence of AT(4) receptors of high affinity [dissociation constant (K(d)) = 1.4 nM]. ANG IV did not affect cAMP or cGMP production and did not increase cytosolic calcium concentration in these cells. In contrast, immunoprecipitation and immunoblotting studies revealed that ANG IV caused dose-dependent tyrosine phosphorylation of p125-focal adhesion kinase (p125-FAK) and p68-paxillin within 2 min, with maximal stimulation at 30 min. ANG IV-stimulated tyrosine phosphorylation of p125-FAK and paxillin was not affected by pretreatment with either losartan or PD-123319, and ANG II (10(-7) M) did not induce protein tyrosine phosphorylation. Our results indicate that LLC-PK(1)/Cl(4) cells express ANG IV receptors, which we demonstrate for the first time are linked to tyrosine phosphorylation of focal adhesion-associated proteins. This suggests that ANG IV, a product of ANG II metabolism, may regulate function of the focal adhesion complex in proximal tubule cells.

A role for the angiotensin IV/AT4 system in mediating natriuresis in the rat

Angiotensin II (AngII) or Angiotensin IV (AngIV) was infused into the renal artery of anesthetized rats while renal cortical blood flow was measured via laser Doppler flowmetry. The infusion of AngII produced a significant elevation in mean arterial pressure (MAP) with an accompanying decrease in cortical blood flow, glomerular filtration rate (GFR), urine volume, and urine sodium excretion. The infusion of AngIV induced significant increases in renal cortical blood flow and urine sodium excretion, without altering MAP, GFR, and urine volume. Pretreatment infusion with a specific AT1 receptor antagonist, DuP 753, blocked or attenuated the subsequent AngII effects, while pretreatment infusion with the specific AT4 receptor antagonist, Divalinal-AngIV, blocked the AngIV effects. These results support distinct and opposite roles for AngII and AngIV, i.e. AngII acts as an anti-natriuretic agent, while AngIV acts as a natriuretic agent.

The effects of angiotensin IV analogs on long-term potentiation within the CA1 region of the hippocampus in vitro

Within the brain-renin angiotensin system, it is generally assumed that angiotensin peptide fragments shorter than angiotensins II and III, including angiotensin IV (AngIV), are inactive. This belief has been challenged by the recent discovery that AngIV, and AngIV-like analogs, bind with high affinity and specificity to a putative angiotensin binding site termed AT4. In the brain these sites include the hippocampus, cerebellum, and cerebral cortex, and influence associative and spatial learning tasks. The present study investigated the effects of two AngIV analogs, Nle1-AngIV (an AT4 receptor agonist) and Nle1-Leual3-AngIV (an AT4 receptor antagonist), on long-term potentiation (LTP). Field excitatory postsynaptic potentials (fEPSPs) were recorded from the CA1 stratum radiatum following stimulation of the Schaffer collateral pathway. Activation of AT4 receptors by Nle1-AngIV enhanced synaptic transmission during low-frequency test pulses (0.1 Hz), and increased the level of tetanus-induced LTP by 63% over that measured under control conditions. Paired stimulation before and during infusion of Nle1-AngIV indicated no change in paired-pulse facilitation (PPF) as a result of AT4 receptor activation suggesting that the underlying mechanism(s) responsible for Nle1-AngIV-induced increase in synaptic transmission and LTP is likely a postsynaptic event. Further, applications of Nle1-Leual3-AngIV prior to, but not 15 or 30 min after, tetanization prevented stabilization of LTP. These results extend previous findings from behavioral data in that AT4 receptor agonists and antagonists are capable of activating, and inhibiting, learning and memory pathways in the hippocampus, and suggest that the AT4 receptor subtype is involved in synaptic plasticity.

Characterization of the AT(4) receptor in a human neuroblastoma cell line (SK-N-MC)

Angiotensin IV (Ang IV), the 3-8 fragment of angiotensin II (Ang II), binds to a distinct receptor designated the AT(4) receptor. The peptide elicits a range of vascular and central actions including facilitation of memory retention and retrieval in several learning paradigms. The aim of this study was to characterize the AT(4) receptor in a human cell line of neural origin. Receptor binding studies indicate that the human neuroblastoma cell line SK-N-MC cells express a high-affinity Ang IV binding site with a pharmacological profile similar to the AT(4) receptor: (125)I]-Ang IV and (125)I]-Nle(1)-Ang IV bind specifically to the SK-N-MC cell membranes (K(d) = 0.6 and 0.1 nM) in a saturable manner (B(max) = 1.2 pmol/mg of protein). AT(4) receptor ligands, Nle(1)-Ang IV, Ang IV and LVV-haemorphin 7 (LVV-H7), compete for the binding of [(125)I]-Ang IV or [(125)I]-Nle(1)-Ang IV to the SK-N-MC cell membranes with rank order potencies of Nle(1)-Ang IV > Ang IV > LVV-H7 with IC(50) values of 1.4, 8.7 and 59 nM ([(125)I]-Ang IV) and 1.8, 20 and 168 nM ([(125)I]-Nle(1)-Ang IV), respectively. The binding of [(125)I]-Ang IV or [(125)I]-Nle(1)-Ang IV to SK-N-MC cell membranes was not affected by the presence of GTP gamma S. Both Ang IV and LVV-H7 stimulated DNA synthesis in this cell line up to 72 and 81% above control levels, respectively. The AT(4) receptor in the SK-N-MC cells is a 180-kDa glycoprotein; under non-reducing conditions a 250-kDa band was also observed. In summary, the human neuroblastoma cell line, SK-N-MC, expresses functional AT(4) receptors that are responsive to Ang IV and LVV-H7, as indicated by an increase in DNA synthesis. This is the first human cell line of neural origin shown to express the AT(4) receptor.

Angiotensin II and calcium channels

Sixty years after its initial discovery, the octapeptide hormone angiotensin II (AngII) has proved to play numerous physiological roles that reach far beyond its initial description as a hypertensive factor. In spite of the host of target tissues that have been identified, only two major receptor subtypes, AT1 and AT2, are currently fully identified. The specificity of the effects of AngII relies upon numerous and complex intracellular signaling pathways that often mobilize calcium ions from intracellular stores or from the extracellular medium. Various types of calcium channels (store- or voltage-operated channels) endowed with distinct functional properties play a crucial role in these processes. The activity of these channels can be modulated by AngII in a positive and/or negative fashion, depending on the cell type under observation. This chapter reviews the main characteristics of AngII receptor subtypes and of the various calcium channels as well as the involvement of the multiple signal transduction mechanisms triggered by the hormone in the cell-specific modulation of the activity of these channels.

Agonist-dependent AT(4) receptor internalization in bovine aortic endothelial cells

Recent studies have characterized a specific binding site for the C-terminal 3-8 fragment of angiotensin II (Ang IV). In the present study we looked at the internalization process of this receptor on bovine aortic endothelial cells (BAEC). Under normal culture conditions, BAEC efficiently internalized (125)I-Ang IV as assessed by acid-resistant binding. Internalization of (125)I-Ang IV was considerably decreased after pretreatment of cells with hyperosmolar sucrose or after pretreatment of BAEC with inhibitors of endosomal acidification such as monensin or NH(4)Cl. About 50% of internalized (125)I-Ang IV recycled back to the extracellular medium during a 2 h incubation at 37 degrees C. (125)I-Ang IV remained mostly intact during the whole process of internalization and recycling as assessed by thin layer chromatography. As expected, internalization of (125)I-Ang IV was completely abolished by divalinal-Ang IV, a known AT(4) receptor antagonist. Interestingly, (125)I-divalinal-Ang IV did not internalize into BAEC. These results suggest that AT(4) receptor undergoes an agonist-dependent internalization and recycling process commonly observed upon activation of functional receptors.

Haemorrhage increases the pressor effect of angiotensin-(1-7) but not of angiotensin II at the rat rostral ventrolateral medulla

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effects of angiotensins acting at the rostral ventrolateral medulla (RVLM) on the cardiovascular adjustments following haemorrhage.

DESIGN

Changes in mean arterial pressure (MAP) and heart rate (HR) produced by micro-injections of angiotensin II (Ang II) and angiotensin (Ang)-(1-7) and different angiotensin antagonists into the RVLM of anaesthetized rats submitted to haemorrhage, were determined.

METHODS

Experiments were performed in 79 urethane-anaesthetized male Wistar rats. Ang-(1-7) (2.5 and 25 pmol), Ang II (25 pmol), [Sar1,Thr8]-Ang II (non-selective angiotensin antagonist, 0.2 nmol), A-779 (Ang-(1-7) antagonist, 0.1 nmol), losartan (AT1 Ang II receptor antagonist, 0.2 nmol) or vehicle (200 nl) were bilaterally micro-injected into the RVLM under basal conditions or 30 min after blood withdrawal (0.6 ml/100 g bodyweight). In additional groups, [Sar1,Thr8]-Ang II, A-779, losartan or vehicle were micro-injected into the RVLM 10 min before bleeding to uncover a possible role of endogenous peptides during haemorrhage.

RESULTS

The pressor effect produced by Ang II micro-injection was not altered by haemorrhage. Conversely, haemorrhage significantly increased the magnitude and duration of the pressor effect of Ang-(1-7) at the RVLM. The fall in MAP induced by haemorrhage was similar after micro-injection of vehicle or A-779. However, micro-injection of [Sar1,Thr8]-Ang II significantly reduced the fall in MAP after haemorrhage. A similar finding was obtained with micro-injection of losartan. In addition, while RVLM micro-injection of [Sar1,Thr8]-Ang II or losartan 30 min after blood withdrawn produced MAP changes that were similar to that observed in control animals, micro-injection of A-779 did not significantly alter baseline MAP.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that changes in the RVLM reactivity to Ang-(1-7) but not Ang II may contribute to the haemodynamic adjustments triggered by acute reductions in blood volume. The data obtained with [Sar1,Thr8]-Ang II and losartan suggest a primary inhibitory role for endogenous Ang II at the RVLM during haemorrhage.

Contributions of the brain angiotensin IV-AT4 receptor subtype system to spatial learning

The development of navigational strategies to solve spatial problems appears to be dependent on an intact hippocampal formation. The circular water maze task requires the animal to use extramaze spatial cues to locate a pedestal positioned just below the surface of the water. Presently, we investigated the role of a recently discovered brain angiotensin receptor subtype (AT4) in the acquisition of this spatial learning task. The AT4 receptor subtype is activated by angiotensin IV (AngIV) rather than angiotensins II or III, as documented for the AT1 and AT2 receptor subtypes, and is heavily distributed in the CA1-CA3 fields of the hippocampus. Chronic intracerebroventricular infusion of a newly synthesized AT4 agonist (Norleucine1-AngIV) via osmotic pump facilitated the rate of acquisition to solve this task, whereas treatment with an AT4 receptor antagonist (Divalinal) significantly interfered with the acquisition of successful search strategies. Animals prepared with bilateral knife cuts of the perforant path, a major afferent hippocampal fiber bundle originating in the entorhinal cortex, displayed deficits in solving this task. This performance deficit could be reversed with acute intracerebroventricular infusion of a second AT4 receptor agonist (Norleucinal). These results suggest that the brain AngIV-AT4 system plays a role in the formation of spatial search strategies and memories. Further, application of an AT4 receptor agonist compensated for spatial memory deficits in performance accompanying perforant path knife cuts. Possible mechanisms underlying this compensatory effect are discussed.

Baclofen and AII 3-7 on learning and memory processes in rats chronically treated with ethanol

The aim of this study was to determine the possible influence of baclofen, an agonist of the GABA(B) receptor on behavioral activity (recall, acquisition of conditioned reflexes) of angiotensin II fragment 3-7 (AII 3-7) in rats chronically treated with ethanol. Long-term (9 weeks) ethanol intoxication profoundly impaired learning and memory processes in all tests used. The GABA(B) receptor agonist baclofen (0.75 mg/kg i.p.) did not influence exploratory and motor activity in the control rats, but we observed a tendency (without significance) to decrease the psychomotor activity in the alcohol-intoxicated groups of animals, when it was injected together with AII 3-7 (2 microg i.c.v.). Baclofen did not influence the retrieval process in the passive avoidance recall, and when it was given together with AII 3-7 did not change the positive action of this fragment in control groups, but significantly enhanced its action in the animals chronically treated with ethanol. Baclofen showed significant improvement of acquisition in the active avoidance test only in the alcohol-intoxicated groups. Baclofen, injected together with AII 3-7, yielded important attenuation action of AII 3-7 in the control groups in the first 3 days of test, but did not produce any changes during the fourth and fifth day of the experiment. Baclofen did not provoke any changes in activity of AII 3-7 (when it was injected together) in the acquisition of the active avoidance test in the alcohol-intoxicated groups of animals.

Opposite effects of angiotensin II and IV in the lateral nucleus of the amygdala

In this study the effects of angiotensin II and norleucine1-angiotensin IV have been studied in a horizontal in vitro slice preparation of female rat brains. Extracellular field potentials of the lateral nucleus of the basolateral amygdala were recorded. The results show that angiotensin II significantly increased the amplitude of field potentials induced by the electrical stimulation of the lateral nucleus, whereas norleucine1-angiotensin IV caused a significant decrease in the amplitude of field potentials. The angiotensin-induced effects could be blocked by specific angiotensin receptor antagonists. These opposite effects of angiotensin II and IV on electrophysiological parameters are in agreement with behavioral studies that have demonstrated that angiotensin II and IV produce opposite effects on the retention of an inhibitory shock-avoidance response and correlate with their different effects on the blood vessels.

Haemorphin peptides may be endogenous ligands for brain angiotensin AT4 receptors

1. Angiotensin IV (AngIV), the (3-8) fragment of AngII, was previously believed to be an inactive metabolite. However, specific binding sites, termed AT4 receptors, have been identified in the brain and peripheral organs and the peptide has been reported to enhance memory recall in passive avoidance studies and to dilate pial and renal cortical vessels. 2. AT4 receptors are distinct from AngII AT1 and AT2 receptors with respect to function, ligand specificity and distribution. 3. In the brain, AT4 receptors are abundant in cerebral and cerebellar cortex, hippocampal formation and cholinergic systems, as well as sensory and motor systems. However, the peptide AngIV is low or undetectable in the central nervous system. This led us to search for an alternative peptide ligand of the AT4 receptor. 4. The decapeptide LVVYPWTQRF was isolated from cerebral cortex and binds with high affinity to brain AT4 receptors. This peptide sequence corresponds to an internal sequence of beta-globin and has previously been named LVV-haemorphin 7. 5. Haemorphin may represent a new class of endogenous neuropeptides, some of which interact potently with the brain AT4 receptor to elicit a range of actions.

Study on the functionality and molecular properties of the AT4 receptor

Whereas the role of angiotensin II (Ang II) has been clarified in numerous tissues and cell types, the physiological relevance of its C-terminal (3-8) degradation fragment, angiotensin IV (Ang IV), is unclear. Previously, we characterized a specific binding site for Ang IV in the bovine adrenal cortex and on bovine aortic endothelial cells (BAEC). In the present study, we tried to assess the functionality and mechanism of action of this receptor for Ang IV (AT4 receptor). Our results revealed that none of the classical second messengers (i.e., cAMP, Ca2+, inositol phosphates, nitric oxide or arachidonic acid derivatives) was modified significantly during acute (less than 1 h) stimulation of cells with Ang IV. Under normal culture conditions, BAEC efficiently internalized 125I-Ang IV. After a 2 h incubation at 37 degrees C, acid-resistant binding corresponded to about 50% of total cell-associated radioactivity. This rapid internalization process suggests that the AT4 receptor is a functional protein. With a photoaffinity labeling approach, we revealed some properties of the AT4 receptor that are consistent with those of a growth factor or cytokine receptor.

Angiotensin, thirst, and sodium appetite

Angiotensin (ANG) II is a powerful and phylogenetically widespread stimulus to thirst and sodium appetite. When it is injected directly into sensitive areas of the brain, it causes an immediate increase in water intake followed by a slower increase in NaCl intake. Drinking is vigorous, highly motivated, and rapidly completed. The amounts of water taken within 15 min or so of injection can exceed what the animal would spontaneously drink in the course of its normal activities over 24 h. The increase in NaCl intake is slower in onset, more persistent, and affected by experience. Increases in circulating ANG II have similar effects on drinking, although these may be partly obscured by accompanying rises in blood pressure. The circumventricular organs, median preoptic nucleus, and tissue surrounding the anteroventral third ventricle in the lamina terminalis (AV3V region) provide the neuroanatomic focus for thirst, sodium appetite, and cardiovascular control, making extensive connections with the hypothalamus, limbic system, and brain stem. The AV3V region is well provided with angiotensinergic nerve endings and angiotensin AT1 receptors, the receptor type responsible for acute responses to ANG II, and it responds vigorously to the dipsogenic action of ANG II. The nucleus tractus solitarius and other structures in the brain stem form part of a negative-feedback system for blood volume control, responding to baroreceptor and volume receptor information from the circulation and sending ascending noradrenergic and other projections to the AV3V region. The subfornical organ, organum vasculosum of the lamina terminalis and area postrema contain ANG II-sensitive receptors that allow circulating ANG II to interact with central nervous structures involved in hypovolemic thirst and sodium appetite and blood pressure control. Angiotensin peptides generated inside the blood-brain barrier may act as conventional neurotransmitters or, in view of the many instances of anatomic separation between sites of production and receptors, they may act as paracrine agents at a distance from their point of release. An attractive speculation is that some are responsible for long-term changes in neuronal organization, especially of sodium appetite. Anatomic mismatches between sites of production and receptors are less evident in limbic and brain stem structures responsible for body fluid homeostasis and blood pressure control. Limbic structures are rich in other neuroactive peptides, some of which have powerful effects on drinking, and they and many of the classical nonpeptide neurotransmitters may interact with ANG II to augment or inhibit drinking behavior. Because ANG II immunoreactivity and binding are so widely distributed in the central nervous system, brain ANG II is unlikely to have a role as circumscribed as that of circulating ANG II. Angiotensin peptides generated from brain precursors may also be involved in functions that have little immediate effect on body fluid homeostasis and blood pressure control, such as cell differentiation, regeneration and remodeling, or learning and memory. Analysis of the mechanisms of increased drinking caused by drugs and experimental procedures that activate the renal renin-angiotensin system, and clinical conditions in which renal renin secretion is increased, have provided evidence that endogenously released renal renin can generate enough circulating ANG II to stimulate drinking. But it is also certain that other mechanisms of thirst and sodium appetite still operate when the effects of circulating ANG II are blocked or absent, although it is not known whether this is also true for angiotensin peptides formed in the brain. Whether ANG II should be regarded primarily as a hormone released in hypovolemia helping to defend the blood volume, a neurotransmitter or paracrine agent with a privileged role in the neural pathways for thirst and sodium appetite of all kinds, a neural organizer especially in sodium appetit

Attenuation of scopolamine-induced spatial learning impairments by an angiotensin IV analog

Recently, a receptor for the angiotensin II(3-8) (Ang IV) hexapeptide, was discovered in the hippocampus, suggesting a possible role in learning. The present study utilized intracerebroventricularly (icv) infused scopolamine hydrobromide (scop) to disrupt spatial learning in the circular water maze, followed by the Ang IV analog norleucine1-Ang IV (Nle1-Ang IV), to restore normal performance. Rats were icv pretreated with either scop or artificial cerebrospinal fluid (aCSF) followed by either icv injected Nle1-Ang IV or aCSF, and then behaviourally tested. During acquisition training, each animal's latency to locate the platform, path distance, speed, and efficiency ratios were measured. A probe trial was conducted on the final day of training and the time spent in the target quadrant and the number of crossings over the former location of the platform (annulus crossings) were observed. The results indicate that those animals treated with scop followed by aCSF performed poorly during acquisition training as compared with controls. In contrast, those animals that received scop followed by Nle1-Ang IV attained equivalent latencies, distances, and efficiency ratios to find the platform as those achieved by controls. There were no observed differences in swimming speed, thus arguing against drug-induced motor impairment. During the probe trial, animals treated with scop followed by aCSF spent less time in the target quadrant and made fewer annulus crossings as compared to controls, while the scop, Nle'-Ang IV treated animals performed equivalently to controls. These results suggest that Nle1-Ang IV acts to counteract the disruption of spatial learning induced by scopolamine.

Role of nitric oxide in angiotensin IV-induced increases in cerebral blood flow

The present study investigated the effects of three newly synthesized AngIV analogs (Lysine1-AngIV, Norleucine1-AngIV, and Norleucinal) on cerebral blood flow (CBF) in anesthetized Sprague-Dawley rats utilizing laser-Doppler flowmetry. The results indicate that internal carotid infusions of AngIV, Norleucine1-AngIV, Norleucinal, and Lysine1-AngIV increased CBF above baseline by 25, 32, 33 and 44%, respectively, without changing systemic arterial blood pressure. In a second experiment separate groups of rats were pretreated with nitric oxide (NO) synthase inhibitor, Nw-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME) or saline, followed by AngIV or Norleucinal for the purpose of evaluating the hypothesis that the mechanism of action of these compounds is linked to the release of NO. Pretreatment with saline followed by AngIV and Norleucinal increased CBF by 29 and 39%, respectively, while pretreatment with L-NAME blocked the vasodilatory effects of AngIV and Norleucinal, suggesting that the increment in blood flow induced by these compounds is dependent upon the synthesis and release of NO from vascular endothelial cells.

6-OHDA lesions to amygdala and hippocampus attenuate memory-enhancing effect of the 3-7 fragment of angiotensin II

We have previously shown that facilitatory effect of angiotensin II (AII) on the retrieval of memory is mediated by the dopaminergic system. In the present study, we searched for the influence of the 3-7 fragment of angiotensin II [AII(3-7)] on the retrieval processes in a passive avoidance situation after bilateral 6-OHDA lesions to the central amygdala (CA) and the CA4 field of the hippocampus (HI). AII(3-7) given 15 min before the retention testing, at the intracerebroventricular dose of 1 nmol, significantly prolonged avoidance latencies in sham-operated rats (i.e. improved retrieval of memory for the electric footshock experienced during the learning trial). Bilateral lesions to CA totally abolished, and to HI significantly diminished, this facilitatory effect. An increase of spontaneous locomotor activity in rats lesioned to CA and a decrease in rats lesioned to HI were unlikely to interfere with the cognitive effect of AII (3-7). These results suggest that the anatomical substrate of facilitating retrieval of information activity of AII(3-7) is closely related to the dopaminergic projection from the ventral tegmental area and substantia nigra to CA and HI.

Changes in cochlear blood flow due to intra-arterial infusions of angiotensin II (3-8) (angiotensin IV) in guinea pigs

The effects of a newly discovered form of angiotensin, angiotensin IV (ANGIV), on cochlear blood flow (CBF) have been investigated utilizing the laser Doppler flowmetry (LDF) technique. Two specific questions were addressed: What are the effects of anterior inferior cerebellar artery infusions (AICA) of ANGIV on CBF and do angiotensin fragments other than ANGIV influence CBF in mature male and female guinea pigs. Infusions of ANGIV, and C-terminal shortened fragments were accomplished via micropipette into the AICA and changes in CBF were observed using LDF. The results demonstrated that 10 and 100 pmol/min doses of ANGIV increased CBF 22% and 75% (n = 6; P < 0.01) from baseline, respectively, with little change in mean arterial blood pressure (MAP). Pretreatment with the ANGIV antagonist divalanal-ANGIV (1 nmole/min) blocked increases in CBF due to infusions of 100 pmol/min of ANGIV. The infusion of the C-terminal shortened fragment ANGIV(1-5) and saline had no significant effect on either CBF or MAP. These results provide the evidence for a new subtype of the angiotensin receptor and indicate the likely role of circulating hormones in blood flow regulation in the inner ear.

Hemorphins inhibit angiotensin IV binding and interact with aminopeptidase N

[125I]-Ang IV binding to rabbit collecting duct cell membranes was inhibited by hemorphins (H), a class of endogenous peptides obtained by hydrolysis of the beta chain of hemoglobin. The most potent competitors were those with a valine in their N-terminal part such as LVV-H7 and VV-H7 (IC50 = 1.3 nM) followed by VV-H8 and K6VV-H7 (5.1 nM). The same H, like Ang IV, interacted with aminopeptidase N (APN) as shown by their inhibitory effect (28-36%) on APN activity. HPLC analysis showed that only H with a N-terminal valine or leucine were hydrolyzed. Since H are detected in the body fluids, they are likely to act as endogenous competitors of Ang IV.

Anti-apoptotic action of angiotensin fragments to neuronal cells from angiotensinogen knock-out mice

The morphological analysis in a congenic line of angiotensinogen knock-out mice (AgKO) revealed the decreased density in granular layer cells of hippocampus and cerebellum, suggesting neuronal cells of AgKO susceptible to apoptotic cell death. This phenomenon was further studied by culture of the hippocampal neurons with decreased concentration of serum. AgKO neuronal cells, which showed apoptosis by lower concentration of the serum within several hours, however, survived much longer in the presence of angiotensin II (AII) and IV (AIV). This anti-apoptotic action was not interfered by AII receptor antagonists, CV11874 and PD123319. These results suggest that the renin-angiotensin system could play a critical role in central nervous system, preventing neuronal cells from apoptosis not only by AII but also AIV.

The AT4 receptor agonist [Nle1]-angiotensin IV reduces mechanically induced immediate-early gene expression in the isolated rabbit heart

Angiotensin II (ANG II), acting principally at the AT1 receptor, modulates mechanically-induced cardiac growth. The ANG II metabolite Angiotensin IV (ANG IV) has been shown to inhibit ANG II-induced mRNA and protein synthesis in chick cardiomyocytes. This effect did not involve the AT1 receptor, but was likely an action at the AT4 receptor. To determine if ANG IV also modulates a mechanically-induced cardiac growth response, we studied the effects of two AT4 receptor ligands, [Nle1]-ANG IV and [divalinal]-ANG IV, on mechanically-induced immediate-early gene expression (c-fos, egr-1, and c-jun) in the buffer perfused (30 degrees C), ejecting, isolated rabbit heart. Mechanical load alone (high systolic pressure and high end-diastolic volume) induced approximately 23-, 49- and 5-fold increases in c-fos, egr-1 and c-jun mRNA (in comparison to control hearts). Perfusion with [Nle1]-ANG IV (10[-10] mol/l) reduced the mechanically-induced expression of c-/fos and egr-1 by 42% and 48%, respectively (P < 0.05). Mechanically-induced c-jun expression was not significantly reduced. Perfusion with [divalinal]-ANG IV (10[-8] mol/l) had no effect on mechanically-induced immediate-early gene expression. We conclude that AT4 receptor agonism influences mechanical immediate-early gene expression, and propose the hypothesis that AT1 and AT4 receptors initiate opposing effects on mechanically-induced immediate-early gene expression in the isolated rabbit left ventricle.

Angiotensin II- and IV-induced changes in cerebral blood flow. Roles of AT1, AT2, and AT4 receptor subtypes

Our laboratory has previously reported the discovery of a unique angiotensin binding site (termed AT4) specific for angiotensin IV (AngIV) in cultured vascular endothelial and smooth muscle cells. The present investigation employed laser-Doppler flowmetry to examine the effect of angiotensin II (AngII) and AngIV stimulation of these receptors on cerebral microcirculation in anesthetized Sprague-Dawley rats. Internal carotid artery infusion of AngII at a low dose (0.1 pmol min-1) revealed a 23% reduction in cerebral blood flow (CBF), while the infusion of AngIV increased CBF in a dose-dependent fashion with the highest dose (100 pmol min-1) resulting in an elevation of 30%. In a second experiment separate groups of rats were pre-treated with the AT1 receptor subtype antagonist DuP 753 (Losartan), the AT2 receptor subtype antagonist PD123177, or a newly synthesized AT4 receptor subtype antagonist Divalinal-AngIV (Divalinal), followed by AngII or AngIV for the purpose of determining which angiotensin receptor subtype is responsible for mediating these AngII- and AngIV-induced responses. Pre-treatment with Losartan completely blocked subsequent AngII-induced reductions in CBF, while both PD123177 and Divalinal failed to inhibit this response. In contrast, significant increases in CBF were measured due to AngIV stimulation following pre-treatment with Losartan and PD 123177, while Divalinal abolished this AngIV-induced response. These results suggest that AngII and IV play opposite roles in cerebral microcirculation, i.e., the AT1 receptor subtype mediates AngII-induced reductions in CBF, while the AT4 receptor subtype regulates increases in CBF.

Solid-phase synthesis of hydroxyethylamine angiotensin analogues

Three hydroxyethylamine analogues of angiotensins II, III, and IV were prepared by solid-phase methods. The resin-bound peptide was alkylated with the iodomethylketone derivative of the N-terminal amino acid, followed by reduction to the alcohol using sodium borohydride. The iodomethylketones can be made in good yields from commercially available N-protected amino acids. The compounds were evaluated for their ability to displace labeled angiotensins from bovine adrenal membranes, and their metabolic stability tested in kidney homogenates and aminopeptidase M preparations. The hydroxyethylamine amide bond replacement reduced the affinity of the analogues; however, they were substantially more stable to enzymatic degradation.

The neuronal role of angiotensin II in thirst, sodium appetite, cognition and memory

Within the past two decades, a great deal has been learnt about the renin-angiotensin system in the brain. The renin-angiotensin system is one of the best-studied enzyme-neuropeptide systems in the brain. The diversity of localization of this peptide throughout the brain has implied a variety of potential functions. Besides its classical role in the regulation of blood pressure and body-fluid homeostasis, it has more subtle functions involving complex mechanisms such as learning and memory. The profound effects on behaviour produced by angiotensin are of broad interest to neuroscientists. The mechanisms of action differ depending on whether angiotensin is locally synthesized and whether regulation is governed by neural or metabolic inputs impinging on the neurones. Its central action is mediated through peptidergic receptors present on neurones. The description of the receptor subtypes AT1 and AT2 for angiotensin II and the development of non-peptidic specific angiotensin receptor subtype antagonists have opened a new area in this field of research. The AT1 site, which preferentially binds to angiotensin II and angiotensin III, appears to mediate the classical angiotensin functions concerned with maintenance of blood pressure and body-fluid control. In addition, most of the behavioural effects described so far are linked with AT1, although so-called psychotropic effects are presumed to be mediated by receptor systems other than the known specific angiotensin receptors. In fact, evidence for the existence of such receptors with high-affinity binding has been reported. The central action of angiotensin II mediated by AT2 is as yet unclear. Most reports concerning this receptor subtype suggest a role in differentiation and development, since the number of binding sites is higher in fetal and young rats than in adults. Furthermore, the neuronal effect of angiotensin II in the inferior olivary nucleus which is blocked specifically by AT2 antagonists suggests an involvement in motor control. Over the next few years we should find answers to many of the questions currently unanswered about angiotensin function and, given the rapid progress in research on this neuropeptide, it may serve as a model for the action of peptides on neuronal function in general.

Analysis of responses to angiotensin I and angiotensin I-(3-10) in the mesenteric vascular bed of the cat

Responses to angiotensin I and antiogensin I-(3-10), the precursors for angiotensin II and IV, were investigated in the mesenteric vascular bed of the cat. Under constant-flow conditions, injections of precursors and the active peptides into the mesenteric arterial perfusion circuit caused dose-related increases in receptor antagonist that were attenuated by the angiotensin AT1 receptor antagonist DuP532 (2-propyl-4-pentafluorethyl-1-[2'-(2H-tetrazol-5-YL)-1,1'-bi phenyl-4-YL methyl]1H-imidazole-5-carboxylic acid), but not by the angiotensin AT2 receptor antagonist PD123,319 ((S)1-[[4-(dimethylamino)-3-methylphenyl]methyl]-5-(diphenylacetyl )-4,5,6,7- tetrahydro-1H-imadazo[4,5-c]pyridine-6-carboxylic acid, ditriflouroacetate]). Responses to angiotensin I and II were similar as were responses to angiotensin I-(3-10) and angiotensin IV, and these responses were not altered by the presence of a time-delay coil in the perfusion circuit. Responses to angiotensin I and angiotensin I-(3-10) were decreased by the angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor enalaprilat in a dose of the angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor that had no effect on responses to angiotensin II and IV and that enhanced vasodilator responses to bradykinin. The putative angiotensin AT2 receptor agonist, p-aminophenylalanine6-angiotensin II, produced dose-related increases in mesenteric arterial perfusion pressure that were reduced by DUP532, suggesting that they are mediated by angiotensin AT1 receptors. These results suggest that angiotensin I and angiotensin I-(3-10) are rapidly and efficiently converted by an angiotensin converting enzyme-dependent pathway into active peptides that induce vasoconstriction by activating angiotensin AT1 receptors in the mesenteric vascular bed of the cat.

Pharmacological characterization of a specific binding site for angiotensin IV in cultured porcine aortic endothelial cells

This study demonstrated the existence of a specific binding site for angiotensin IV in porcine aortic endothelial cells. Non-equilibrium kinetic analyses at 37 degrees C allowed the calculation of a kinetic Kd of 0.44 nM. Pseudo-equilibrium saturation binding studies at 37 degrees C for 90 min indicated the presence of a single high-affinity site (Kd = 3.87 +/- 0.60 nM), saturable and abundant (Bmax = 9.64 +/- 1.44 pmol/mg protein). Competitive binding studies demonstrated the following rank order of effectiveness: angiotensin IV > angiotensin III > angiotensin II > angiotensin I > angiotensin II-(1-7), while 2-n-butyl-4-chloro-5-hydroxymethyl-1 [(2'-(1H-tetrazol-5-yl) biphenyl-4-yl) methyl] imidazol (DuP 753: losartan), 1-(4-amino-3-methyl-phenyl) methyl-5-diphenylisoethyl-4,5,6,7-tetrahydro-1H-imidazo [4,5-C] pyridine-6-carboxylic acid (PD 123177) or nicotinic acid-Tyr-(N alpha -benzyl-oxycarbonyl-Arg) Lys-His-Pro-Ile-OH (CGP 42112A) were inactive at the concentration of 100 microM. This binding site is, therefore, distinct from angiotensin II receptors, AT1 and AT2. Addition of the divalent cations Mg2+, Mn2+ or Ca2+ to the incubation buffer resulted in 90-95% inhibition of the [125I]angiotensin IV-specific binding to porcine aortic endothelial cells. Furthermore, the chelator, EGTA, at 5 mM increased the number of binding sites (Bmax = 17.8 +/- 2.5 pmol/mg protein), with no change in affinity (Kd = 5.7 +/- 1.3 nM). Exposure of porcine aortic endothelial cell membranes to the non-hydrolyzable GTP analog, GTP gamma S, had no effect on [125I]angiotensin IV binding. The presence of a high concentration of binding sites for angiotensin IV in porcine aortic endothelial cells suggests that this peptide may play an important role in the modulation of the cardiovascular system.

Changes in the baroreflex control of heart rate produced by central infusion of selective angiotensin antagonists in hypertensive rats

We have recently shown that an angiotensin-(1-7) [Ang-(I-7)] analogue, D-Ala7-Ang-(1-7) (A-779), is a selective Ang-(1-7) antagonist with no significant action on angiotensin type 1 or type 2 receptors. The availability of selective angiotensin antagonists prompted us to evaluate the role of Ang-(1-7) and Ang II on central modulation of the baroreflex control of heart rate in normotensive Wistar rats and spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR). Blood pressure recording and reflex changes in heart rate elicited by intravenous bolus injections of phenylephrine were made before and within 1 and 3 hours of intracerebroventricular (ICV, lateral ventricle) infusion of saline (8 microL/h), A-779 (4 microg/h), DuP 753 (100 microg/h), or CGP 42112A (50 mu g/h) in conscious rats. The slope of the relationship between changes in pulse interval versus changes in mean arterial pressure was used as an index of the baroreflex control of heart rate. ICV infusion of saline or any of the antagonists did not significantly change basal levels of mean arterial pressure and heart rate in SHR (170 +/- 6 mm Hg nd 360 +/- 9 beats per minute, respectively; n = 29) or Wistar rats (108 +/- 2 mm Hg and 377 +/- 6 beats per minute, respectively; n=29). Three hours of ICV infusion of A-779 markedly decreased baroreflex sensitivity in Wistar rats (from a basal slope of 1.09 +/- O.3). In contrast, A-779 did not significantly alter the depressed baroreflex sensitivity of SHR (0.61 +/- O.l). ICV infusion of DuP 753 produced a significant increase (60 percent) in baroreflex control of heart rate in both Wistar rats and SHR. Saline or CGP 42112A infusions did not significantly alter baroreflex control of heart rate. These results suggest that endogenous Ang II and Ang-(1-7) are differentially affecting central baroreflex modulation, acting probably through distinct receptor subtypes. Although the central Ang II inhibitory effect is mediated by the type 1 receptor subtype, the facilitatory effect of Ang-(1-7) might be mediated by a different, unidentified receptor.

Effects of LY231617 and angiotensin IV on ischemia-induced deficits in circular water maze and passive avoidance performance in rats

The antioxidant LY231617 has previously been shown to offer significant protection against postischemic cell death in the hippocampus and corpus striatum of rats. The present results extend this observation by demonstrating a concomitant protection against the spatial memory deficits that accompany damage to the hippocampus, as measured by the circular water maze task. These animals were further tested for changes in associative memory by employing a passive avoidance conditioning task. No deficits in passive avoidance conditioning were measured among the 4-vessel occlusion animals treated with LY231617 or vehicle. However, the intracerebroventricular injection of angiotensin IV (Ang IV) immediately prior to foot-shock conditioning improved retention of the conditioned response during the subsequent 2-day period. These results suggest that LY231617 can offer considerable protection against global ischemia-induced cell death in the hippocampus with resulting preservation of spatial memory abilities. In addition, untreated animals that suffered cell losses in the hippocampus remained capable of responding to the facilitory effect of centrally administered Ang IV on a non-spatial memory task. The hypothesized mechanisms of the protection characteristics of LY231617, and the nootropic effect of Ang IV, are discussed.

Characterization and regulation of angiotensin II receptors in rat adipose tissue. Angiotensin receptors in adipose tissue

Characterization and regulation of angiotensin II (AII) receptor binding sites was performed in rat membrane preparations from nonadipose (liver, lung) and adipose (interscapular (ISBAT) and periaortic (PA) brown adipose tissue; epididymal (EF) and retroperitoneal (RPF) white adipose tissue). In membrane preparations from brown and white adipose sources, [125I]AII saturation binding revealed a single, high affinity (Kd range of 0.3 -0.6 nM) binding site with a modest AII receptor density (Bmax range of 17-120 fmol/mg protein) comparable to rat lung (130 fmol/mg protein). White adipose tissue contained a greater number of AII receptor sites than brown adipose tissue. Competition displacement studies demonstrated the AT1 receptor is the only angiotensin receptor subtype localized in adipose tissue, with the rank order for competition of [125I]AII binding in all adipose tissues examined AIII > AII > losartan > angiotensin I (AI) > PD123319. The AT2 specific receptor antagonist, PD123319, was ineffective at displacing [125I]AII binding in all adipose tissues examined. Since components of the renin-angiotensin system are regulated in adipose tissue, we determined if the AII receptor is also regulated in the obese state. AII receptor binding characteristics were determined in liver, lung, ISBAT and EF membrane preparations from adult Zucker obese (fa/fa) and lean (Fa/?) rats. AII receptor density was decreased in liver from obese rats. In contrast, the affinity for [125I]AII binding was not altered in tissues from obese rats. In a separate group of obese and lean rats, regulation of the AII receptor by phenobarbital (PB) was examined. Administration of PB restored AII receptor density in liver from obese rats to levels obtained in lean rats. In summary, these results demonstrate the presence of AT1 receptor sites in brown and white adipose tissue. Moreover, AII receptor density is decreased in tissues from obese rats, with restoration of receptor density by administration of PB. Future studies will determine if PB regulates the AT1 receptor at the level of gene expression.

Angiotensin III and IV activation of the brain AT1 receptor subtype in cardiovascular function

The present investigation determined that native angiotensins II and III (ANG II and III) were equipotent as pressor agents when ICV infused in alert rats, whereas native angiotensin IV (ANG IV) was less potent. An analogue of each of these angiotensins was prepared with a hydroxyethylamine (HEA) amide bond replacement at the N-terminus, yielding additional resistance to degradation. These three angiotensin analogues, HEA-ANG II, HEA-ANG III, and HEA-ANG IV, were equivalent with respect to maximum elevation in pressor responses when ICV infused; and each evidenced significantly extended durations of effect compared with their respective native angiotensin. Comparing analogues, HEA-ANG II had a significantly longer effect compared with HEA-ANG III, and HEA-ANG IV, whereas the latter were equivalent. Pretreatment with the AT1 receptor subtype antagonist, Losartan (DuP753), blocked subsequent pressor responses to each of these analogues, suggesting that these responses were mediated by the AT1 receptor subtype. Pretreatment with the specific AT4 receptor subtype antagonist, Divalinal (HED 1291), failed to influence pressor responses induced by the subsequent infusion of these analogues. These results suggest an important role for Ang III, and perhaps ANG IV, in brain angiotensin pressor responses mediated by the AT1 receptor subtype.

Expression of a novel angiotensin II receptor subtype in gerbil brain

Angiotensin II receptors are highly localized in adult gerbil brain. Apparent receptor number is high in subfornical organ, vascular organ of the lamina terminalis, nucleus of the solitary tract, hippocampus, and in the anterior pituitary gland. In the hippocampus, binding is localized to the stratum oriens, radiatum, the lacunar molecular layers of the CA1 subfield, and the molecular layer of the gyrus dentatus, with a medial to lateral and anterior to posterior gradient in receptor expression. Binding is absent from the pyramidal layer of the CA1 subfield and from the granular cell layer of the gyrus dentatus, areas rich in angiotensin IV binding. Characterization in the hippocampus revealed the presence of a high affinity receptor, sensitive to incubation with the guanine nucleotide GTP gamma S, and displaced by angiotensin II = angiotensin III < Sar1-Ile8-angiotensin II, but not by angiotensin IV or other angiotensin fragments, the AT1 receptor antagonist losartan, or the AT2 ligands CGP 42112 or PD 123177. In other brain areas, binding was equally insensitive to displacement by AT1 or AT2 ligands, with the exception of binding in the olfactory bulb, which was totally displaced by CGP 42112 and PD 123177, but not by losartan. In the gerbil, most of the brain and pituitary angiotensin II receptors are different from the AT1, AT2 and AT4 subtypes, and should be considered 'atypical' until further characterization.

Angiotensin induction of PAI-1 expression in endothelial cells is mediated by the hexapeptide angiotensin IV

Recent studies from this laboratory have demonstrated that angiotensin II (Ang II) stimulates the expression of plasminogen activator inhibitor 1 (PAI-1) in cultured endothelial cells. This response does not appear to be mediated via an interaction with either the AT1 or the AT2 receptor subtype. Since a novel angiotensin receptor has been identified in a variety of tissues that specifically binds the hexapeptide Ang IV (Ang II, [3-8]), we therefore examined the effects of Ang IV on the expression of PAI-1 mRNA in bovine aortic endothelial cells. Ang IV stimulated dose- and time-dependent increases in the expression of PAI-1 mRNA. The effect of Ang IV (10 nM) was not inhibited by Dup 753 (1.0 microM), a highly specific antagonist of the AT1 receptor, or by PD123177 (1.0 microM), a highly specific antagonist of the AT2 receptor. In contrast, the AT4 receptor antagonist, WSU1291 (1.0 microM), effectively prevented PAI-1 expression. Although larger forms of angiotensin (i.e., Ang I, Ang II, and Ang III) are capable of inducing PAI-1 expression, this property is lost in the presence of converting enzyme or aminopeptidase inhibitors. These results indicate that the hexapeptide Ang IV is the form of angiotensin that stimulates endothelial expression of PAI-1. This effect appears to be mediated via the stimulation of an endothelial receptor that is specific for Ang IV.

Metabolism of angiotensin I in isolated rat hearts. Effect of angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors

In this study, the formation of biologically active angiotensins from angiotensin I (Ang I) in isolated rat hearts was evaluated. The role of angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) in Ang I metabolism was also investigated. HPLC analysis of heart perfusate showed that 125I-Ang I was metabolized extensively (single passage) in the rat coronary circulation in vitro leading to the formation of the biologically active angiotensins: angiotensin II (Ang II), Ang-(2-8), Ang-(3-8) and Ang-(1-7). Ang II was the major product identified in HPLC fractions, corresponding to 7.8 +/- 0.89% of the total radioactivity recovered. A similar profile was observed when single-passage metabolism of non-isotopic Ang I was evaluated by HPLC, followed by radioimmunoassay of the eluate fractions. When 125I-Ang I was perfused in the presence of ACE inhibitors (enalaprilat, ramiprilat) in concentrations up to 130 microM, the formation of Ang II was only partially inhibited (approximately 50%). A similar tendency was observed for Ang-(2-8), Ang-(3-8) and Ang-(2-7). The formation of Ang-(1-7) and its related fragments Ang-(3-7) and Ang-(4-7) was not changed significantly by ACE inhibitors, although a slight increase in formation of these fragments was observed. No significant changes were observed for the carboxyl-terminal fragments of Ang I: Ang-(2-10), Ang-(3-10), and Ang-(4-10). The fractional metabolism of Ang I was not modified by ACE inhibition. These findings suggest that biologically active angiotensins can be formed from Ang I in the rat coronary circulation. These locally generated peptides may contribute to the actions of the renin-angiotensin system in the heart.

Characterization of a binding site for angiotensin IV on bovine aortic endothelial cells

We have characterized a specific binding site for angiotensin IV on bovine aortic endothelial cell membranes. Pseudo-equilibrium studies at 37 degrees C for 2 h have shown that this binding site recognizes angiotensin IV with a high affinity (Kd = 0.71; average of two experiments that yielded values of 0.71 and 0.72 nM). The binding site is saturable and relatively abundant with a maximal binding capacity of 0.59 pmol/mg protein (average of two experiments that yielded values of 0.39 and 0.78 pmol/mg of protein). Non-equilibrium kinetic analyses at 37 degree C revealed a calculated Kd of 59 pM (average of two experiments that yielded values of 67 and 50 pM). The binding site displays a high affinity for angiotensin receptors AT1 or AT2. An analysis of specificity showed that the binding site displays a high affinity for angiotensin IV, low affinities for angiotensin II, [Sar1, Val5, Ala8]angiotensin II and does not recognize L-158,809 (5,7-dimethyl-2-ethyl-3-[(2'-(1 H-tetrazole-5-yl)[1,1'-biphenyl]-4-yl)methyl]-3H-imidazo[4, 5-beta]pyridine H2O) and PD 123319 (1-[4-dimethylamino)3-methylphenyl]methyl-5-(diphenylacetyl) 4,5,6,7-tetrahydro-1 H-imidazo[4,5-c]pyridine-6-carboxylic acid). A few unrelated hormones (bradykinin, [Arg8] vasopressin, endothelin-1, atrial natriuretic factor, isoproterenol and adrenocorticotropic hormone) were unable to inhibit any 125I-angiotensin IV binding. The affinities of different structural analogues of angiotensin IV revealed that the N-terminal position is critical for receptor recognition and the C-terminal proline is also important. GTP gamma S and polyvinyl sulfate did not affect the binding, suggesting that the receptor is not coupled to a G-protein. The divalent cations Mg2+ and Ca2+ were shown to diminish the binding of 125I-angiotensin IV. Cross-linking of 125I-angiotensin IV to bovine aortic endothelial cell membranes in the presence of disuccinimidyl suberate, followed by sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) revealed a major band of 186 +/- 12 kDa. The presence in high concentration of this angiotensin binding site on aortic endothelial cells suggest the existence of a novel mechanism involved in the control of vascular tone or vascular permeability.