Stimulation of expression for the adenosine A2A receptor gene by hypoxia in PC12 cells. A potential role in cell protection

Effect of Omeprazole on Gastric Adenosine A1 and A2A Receptor Gene Expression and Function

Adenosine has been shown to inhibit immunoreactive gastrin (IRG) release and to stimulate somatostatin-like immunoreactivity (SLI) release by activating adenosine A(1) and A(2A) receptors, respectively. Since the synthesis and release of gastrin and somatostatin are regulated by the acid secretory state of the stomach, the effect of achlorhydria on A(1) and A(2A) receptor gene expression and function was examined. Omeprazole-induced achlorhydria was shown to suppress A(1) and A(2A) receptor gene expression in the antrum and corporeal mucosa, but not in the corporeal muscle. Omeprazole treatment produced reciprocal changes in A(1) receptor and gastrin gene expression, and parallel changes in A(2A) receptor and somatostatin gene expression. The localization of A(1) and A(2A) receptors on gastrinsecreting G-cells and somatostatin-secreting D-cells, respectively, suggests that changes in adenosine receptor expression may modulate the synthesis and release of gastrin and somatostatin. Thus, the effect of omeprazole on adenosine receptor-mediated changes in IRG and SLI release was also examined in the vascularly perfused rat stomach. After omeprazole treatment, the A(1) receptor-mediated inhibition of IRG and SLI release induced by N(6)-cyclopentyladenosine (A(1) receptor-selective agonist) was not altered, but the A(2A) receptor-mediated augmentation of SLI release induced by 2-p-(2-carboxyethyl-)phenethylamino-5'-N-ethylcarboxamidoadenosine (A(2A)-selective agonist) was significantly attenuated. These findings agree well with the corresponding omeprazole-induced decrease in antral A(2A) receptor mRNA expression. Overall, the present study suggests that adenosine receptor gene expression and function may be altered by omeprazole treatment. Acid-dependent changes in adenosine receptor expression may represent a novel purinergic regulatory feedback mechanism in controlling gastric acid secretion.

Modulation of A2A adenosine receptors and associated Galphas proteins by ZM 241385 treatment of porcine coronary artery

Functional regulation and expression of the adenosine A2A receptor and associated G-protein were investigated in porcine coronary artery exposed to an A2A receptor antagonist, ZM 241385 (4-(2-[7-amino-2-(2-furyl)[1,2,4]-triazolo[2,3-a][1,3,5]triazin-5-ylamino]ethyl)phenol). The arteries were incubated for 3 days in culture medium in the absence (control) and presence (treated) of 10 microM ZM 241385. Changes in isometric tension by adenosine receptor agonists were evaluated in endothelium-free tissues. ZM 241385-treatment produced a statistically significant rightward displacement of CGS-21680, NECA, and CAD concentration-response curves compared with the respective controls (P < 0.05). The EC50, expressed in nM, values in treated and control tissues were: 617.3 +/- 23 versus 24.9 +/- 1.5 for CGS-21680 (2-(p-(2-carboxyethyl)phenethylamino)-5'N-ethylcarboxamidoadenosine), 27.4 +/- 6.3 versus 3.06 +/- 0.8 for NECA (5'-N-ethylcarboxamidoadenosine), and 5786.2 +/- 160 versus 89.2 +/- 24.1 for CAD (chloroadenosine). However, the relaxing effect of forskolin remained unchanged in treated and control tissues. The concentration-response curves for NECA, CAD, and CGS-21680 were also displaced to the right when cAMP levels were measured in treated and control smooth muscle cells while no differences were observed with forskolin. Quantitative Western blot analysis demonstrated that the density of A2A receptors increased in ZM 241385-treated artery. We also showed a significant decrease in Galphas protein levels after ZM 241385 treatment compared with control. Taken together, these data indicate that prolonged blockade of A2A receptors in the coronary artery leads to desensitization of the functional effects of adenosine agonists by a mechanism that involves decreases in cAMP production. This was associated with an up-regulation of A2A receptors and a decrease in Galphas protein expression.

Characterization of genomic organization of the adenosine A2A receptor gene by molecular and bioinformatics analyses

The adenosine A(2A) receptor (A(2A)R) is abundantly expressed in brain and emerging as an important therapeutic target for Parkinson's disease and potentially other neuropsychiatric disorders. To understand the molecular mechanisms of A(2A)R gene expression, we have characterized the genomic organization of the mouse and human A(2A)R genes by molecular and bioinformatic analyses. Three new exons (m1A, m1B and m1C) encoding the 5' untranslated regions (5'-UTRs) of mouse A(2A)R mRNA were identified by rapid amplification of 5' cDNA end (5' RACE), RT-PCR analysis and genome sequence analyses. Similar bioinformatics analysis also suggested six variants of the non-coding "exon 1" (h1A, h1B, h1C, h1D, h1E and h1F) in the human A(2A)R gene, which were confirmed by RT-PCR analysis, while three of the human exon 1 variants (h1D, h1E and h1F) were likewise verified by 5' oligonucleotide capping analysis suggesting multiple transcription start sites. Importantly, RT-PCR and quantitative PCR analysis demonstrated that the A(2A)R transcripts with different exon 1 variants displayed tissue-specific expression patterns. For instance, the mouse exon m1A mRNA was detected only in brain (specifically striatum) and the human exon h1D mRNA in lymphoreticular system. Furthermore, the determination of the three new transcription start sites of human A(2A)R gene by 5' oligonucleotide capping and bioinformatics analyses led to the identification of three corresponding promoter regions which contain several important cis elements, providing additional target for further molecular dissection of A(2A)R gene expression. Finally, our analysis indicates that A(2A)R mRNA and a novel transcript partially overlapping with the 3' exon h3, but in opposite orientation to the A(2A)R gene, could conceivably form duplexes to mutually regulate transcript expression. Thus, combined molecular and bioinformatics analyses revealed a new A(2A)R genomic structure, with conserved coding exons 2 and 3 and divergent, tissue-specific exon 1 variants encoding for 5'-UTR. This raises the possibility of generating multiple tissue-specific A(2A)R mRNA species by alternative promoters with varying regulatory susceptibility.

Functional genomics approach to hypoxia signaling

Mammalian cells require a constant supply of oxygen to maintain energy balance, and sustained hypoxia can result in cell death. It is therefore not surprising that sophisticated adaptive mechanisms have evolved that enhance cell survival during hypoxia. During the past few years, there have been a growing number of reports on hypoxia-induced transcription of specific genes. In this review, we describe a unique experimental approach that utilizes focused cDNA libraries coupled to microarray analyses to identify hypoxia-responsive signal transduction pathways and genes that confer the hypoxia-tolerant phenotype. We have used the subtractive suppression hybridization (SSH) method to create a cDNA library enriched in hypoxia-regulated genes in oxygen-sensing pheochromocytoma cells and have used this library to create microarrays that allow us to examine hundreds of genes at a time. This library contains over 300 genes and expressed sequence tags upregulated by hypoxia, including tyrosine hydroxylase, vascular endothelial growth factor, and junB. Hypoxic regulation of these and other genes in the library has been confirmed by microarray, Northern blot, and real-time PCR analyses. Coupling focused SSH libraries with microarray analyses allows one to specifically study genes relevant to a phenotype of interest while reducing much of the biological noise associated with these types of studies. When used in conjunction with high-throughput, dye-based assays for cell survival and apoptosis, this approach offers a rapid method for discovering validated therapeutic targets for the treatment of cardiovascular disease, stroke, and tumors.

Abnormal alveolar development associated with elevated adenine nucleosides

Adenosine signaling has been characterized in various physiologic systems, but little is known about the role of adenosine signaling in lung development. Alveogenesis and microvascular maturation are the final stages in lung development in mammals. Alveogenesis in the mouse begins on Postnatal Day 5, when the process of secondary septation plays a pivotal role in the expansion of the alveolar sacs and microvascular maturation. Adenosine deaminase null mice (ADA-/-) exhibit abnormalities in alveogenesis in association with elevated lung adenosine levels. Large-scale gene expression analysis of ADA-/- lungs using oligonucleotide-based microarrays revealed novel relationships between gene expression patterns and elevated lung adenosine during the stages of alveolar maturation. Genes regulating apoptosis, proliferation, and vascular development were shown to be altered, and decreased cell proliferation in association with increased alveolar type II cell apoptosis was shown to contribute to abnormal secondary septation in these mice. ADA enzyme therapy allowed for normal patterns of apoptosis, proliferation, and alveolar development in association with prevention of adenosine elevations. These findings were correlated with the presence of adenosine receptors in the developing lung, suggesting the involvement of receptor signaling. These studies provide evidence that elevated lung adenosine can lead to abnormal alveogenesis by disrupting patterns of cell proliferation and apoptosis.

Presynaptic modulation controlling neuronal excitability and epileptogenesis: role of kainate, adenosine and neuropeptide Y receptors

Based on the idea that seizures may arise from an overshoot of excitation over inhibition, all substances that may decrease glutamatergic function while having no effect or even increasing GABAergic neurotransmission are likely to be effective anticonvulsants. We now review the possible role of three such neuromodulators, kainate, adenosine, and neuropeptide Y receptors in controlling hyperexcitability and epileptogenesis. Particular emphasis is given on the robust neuromodulatory role of these three groups of receptors on the release of glutamate in the hippocampus, a main focus of epilepsy. Moreover, we also give special attention to the mechanisms of receptor activation and coupled signaling events that can be explored as attractive targets for the treatment of epilepsy and excitotoxicity. The present paper is a tribute to Arsélio Pato de Carvalho who has been the main driving force for the development of Neuroscience in Portugal, notably with a particular emphasis on the presynaptic mechanisms of modulation of neurotransmitter release.

Adenosine A2A receptors regulate oxidative stress formation in rat pheochromocytoma PC12 cells during serum deprivation

Activation of A2A adenosine receptors (A2A-Rs) was found to prevent reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation and apoptosis in serum-deprived pheochromocytoma PC12 cells. A protein kinase A (PKA) inhibitor not only blocked the anti-apoptotic roles of A2A-R but also reversed A2A-R-induced suppression of ROS formation, indicating a PKA-dependent pathway in preventing ROS formation and apoptosis. PKA stimulators and antioxidants prevented serum-deprived ROS formation and apoptosis. In addition, A2A-R activation also prevented H2O2-induced cell death, further suggesting the protective roles of A2A-R in antagonizing oxidative stress and cell death. Finally, antioxidative system-interrupting agents attenuated A2A-R-mediated protection. Taken together, these data indicate that PKA-dependent regulation and attenuation of oxidative stress by A2A-R may play at least some roles in preventing serum-deprived PC12 cell apoptosis.

A glance at adenosine receptors: novel target for antitumor therapy

Adenosine can be released from a variety of cells throughout the body, as the result of increased metabolic rates, in concentrations that can have a profound impact on the vasculature, immunoescaping, and growth of tumor masses. It is recognized that the concentrations of this nucleoside are increased in cancer tissues. Therefore, it is not surprising that adenosine has been shown to be a crucial factor in determining the cell progression pathway, either during apoptosis or during cytostatic state. From the perspective of cancer, the most important question then may be "Can activation and/or blockade of the pathways downstream of the adenosine receptor contribute to tumor development?" Rigorous examinations of the role of adenosine in in vivo and in vitro systems need to be investigated. The present review therefore proposes multiple adenosine-sustained ways that could prime tumor development together with the critical combinatorial role played by adenosine receptors in taking a choice between proliferation and death. This review proposes that adenosine acts as a potent regulator of normal and tumor cell growth. It is hypothesized that this effect is dependent on extracellular adenosine concentrations, cell surface expression of different adenosine receptor subtypes, and signal transduction mechanisms activated following the binding of specific agonists. We venture to suggest that the clarification of the role of adenosine and its receptors in cancer development may hold great promise for the treatment of chemotherapy in patients affected by malignancies.

Distinct protein kinase C isoforms mediate regulation of vascular endothelial growth factor expression by A2A adenosine receptor activation and phorbol esters in pheochromocytoma PC12 cells

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) stimulates angiogenesis during development and in disease. In pheochromocytoma (PC12) cells, VEGF expression is regulated by A(2A) adenosine receptor (A(2A)AR) activation. The present work examines the underlying signaling pathway. The adenylyl cyclase-protein kinase A cascade has no role in the down-regulation of VEGF mRNA induced by the A(2A)AR agonist, 2-[4-[(2-carboxyethyl)phenyl]ethylamino]-5'-N-ethylcarboxamidoadenosine (CGS21680). Conversely, 6-h exposure of cells to either phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA) or protein kinase C (PKC) inhibitors mimicked the CGS21680-induced down-regulation. PMA activated PKCalpha, PKCepsilon, and PKCzeta, and CGS21680 activated PKCepsilon and PKCzeta as assessed by cellular translocation. By 6 h, PMA but not CGS21680 decreased PKCalpha and PKCepsilon expression. Neither compound affected PKCzeta levels. Following prolonged PMA treatment to down-regulate susceptible PKC isoforms, CGS21680 but not PMA inhibited the cobalt chloride induction of VEGF mRNA. The proteasome inhibitor, MG-132, abolished PMA- but not CGS21680-induced down-regulation of VEGF mRNA. Phorbol 12,13-diacetate reduced VEGF mRNA levels while down-regulating PKCepsilon but not PKCalpha expression. In cells expressing a dominant negative PKCzeta construct, CGS21680 was unable to reduce VEGF mRNA. Together, the findings suggest that phorbol ester-induced down-regulation of VEGF mRNA occurs as a result of a reduction of PKCepsilon activity, whereas that mediated by the A(2A)AR occurs following deactivation of PKCzeta.

Identification of nuclear factor 1 (NF1) as a transcriptional modulator of rat A(2A) adenosine receptor

By a combination of PCR and DNA walking technique, we isolated a 4.8-kb DNA fragment containing a 4.3 kb 5'-flanking region and a 0.5-kb 5'-untranslated region of the rat A(2A) adenosine receptor (A(2A)-R) gene. Various lengths of the 5'-flanking region of the A(2A)-R gene were inserted into an expression vector and transfected into several different cell lines for promoter analysis. Our results reveal that a consensus NF1 element (designated as A(2A)-R/NF1), located between bases -2846 and -2827 of the A(2A)-R gene, functions as a repressor for A(2A)-R promoters in the rat brain-derived type-2 astrocyte cell line (RBA2), which expresses no A(2A)-R. Electrophoretic gel mobility shift assay (EMSA) revealed that two A(2A)-R/NF1-protein complexes of RBA2 nuclear extract were formed. Supershift experiments using an anti-NF1 antibody suggest that NF1 proteins exist in both A(2A)-R/NF1-protein complexes. Furthermore, mutations in the conserved NF1 binding site of this A(2A)-R/NF1 element disturbed DNA-protein formation. Thus, NF1 proteins appear to mediate this cell line-specific suppression of A(2A)-R promoters in RBA2 cells. The importance of NF1 proteins in regulating A(2A)-R promoters was further confirmed in another cell line (Siha) which expresses no endogenous A(2A)-R. Moreover, addition of the A(2A)-R/NF1element upstream of an irrelevant thymidine kinase (TK) promoter suppressed its promoter activity in Siha cells, but not in RBA2 cells. Thus, the NF1-mediated inhibition of the A(2A)-R promoter was promoter- and cell line-specific. In summary, we have defined a distal negative element (A(2A)-R/NF1) that plays a functional role in modulating the expression of A(2A)-R.

Evidence for coordinated induction and repression of ecto-5'-nucleotidase (CD73) and the A2a adenosine receptor in a human B cell line

In the human B cell line P493-6 two mitogenic signals, the Epstein-Barr virus nuclear antigen 2 (EBNA2) and myc, can be independently regulated by means of an estrogen receptor fusion construct or an inducible expression vector, respectively. Shut off of EBNA2, either in the presence or absence of myc, leads to a significant increase in enzymatic activity and surface expression of ecto-5'-nucleotidase (CD73) as well as an increased adenosine receptor response in cyclic AMP formation. Shut off of myc expression has a small additional positive effect on CD73 activity. Among the four different subtypes of adenosine receptors, the A2a receptor exclusively is subject to regulation in this system, which is substantiated by pharmacologic data (specific agonists and inhibitors), as well as on the mRNA level. With up-regulated CD73 and A2a, cells also respond to 5'-AMP with increased cyclic AMP formation. Turn on of EBNA2 has the reverse effect of repression of CD73 and A2a expression. The time course of both induction and repression of CD73 and A2a is rather slow.

Erythropoietin: physiology and pharmacology update

This minireview is an update of a 1997 review on erythropoietin (EPO) in this journal. EPO is a 30,400-dalton glycoprotein that regulates red cell production. In the human, EPO is produced by peritubular cells in the kidneys of the adult and in hepatocytes in the fetus. Small amounts of extra-renal EPO are produced by the liver in adult human subjects. EPO binds to an erythroid progenitor cell surface receptor that includes a p66 chain, and, when activated, the p66 protein becomes dimerized. EPO receptor activation induces a JAK2 tyrosine kinase, which leads to tyrosine phosphorylation of the EPO receptor and several proteins. EPO receptor binding leads to intracellular activation of the Ras/mitogen-activated kinase pathway, which is involved with cell proliferation, phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase, and STATS 1, 3, 5A, and 5B transcriptional factors. EPO acts primarily to rescue erythroid cells from apoptosis (programmed cell death) to increase their survival. EPO acts synergistically with several growth factors (SCF, GM-CSF, 1L-3, and IGF-1) to cause maturation and proliferation of erythroid progenitor cells (primarily colony-forming unit-E). Oxygen-dependent regulation of EPO gene expression is postulated to be controlled by a hypoxia-inducible transcription factor (HIF-1alpha). Hypoxia-inducible EPO production is controlled by a 50-bp hypoxia-inducible enhancer that is approximately 120 bp 3' to the polyadenylation site. Hypoxia signal transduction pathways involve kinases A and C, phospholipase A(2), and transcription factors ATF-1 and CREB-1. A model has been proposed for adenosine activation of EPO production that involves protein kinases A and C and the phospholipase A(2) pathway. Other effects of EPO include a hematocrit-independent, vasoconstriction-dependent hypertension, increased endothelin production, upregulation of tissue renin, change in vascular tissue prostaglandins production, stimulation of angiogenesis, and stimulation of endothelial and vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation. Recombinant human EPO (rHuEPO) is currently being used to treat patients with anemias associated with chronic renal failure, AIDS patients with anemia due to treatment with zidovudine, nonmyeloid malignancies in patients treated with chemotherapeutic agents, perioperative surgical patients, and autologous blood donation. A novel erythropoiesis-stimulating factor (NESP, darbepoetin) has been synthesized and when compared with rHuEPO, NESP has a higher carbohydrate content (52% vs 40%), a longer plasma half-life, the amino acid sequence differs from that of native human EPO at five positions, and has been reported to maintain hemoglobin levels just as effectively in patients with chronic renal failure as rHuEPO at less frequent dosing. The use of rHuEPO and darbepoetin to enhance athletic performance is officially banned by most sports-governing bodies because the excessive erythrocytosis can lead to increased thrombogenicity and can cause deep vein, coronary, and cerebral thromboses.

Preconditioning and adenosine protect human proximal tubule cells in an in vitro model of ischemic injury

Renal ischemic reperfusion injury results in unacceptably high mortality and morbidity during the perioperative period. It has been recently demonstrated that ischemic preconditioning or adenosine receptor modulations attenuate renal ischemic reperfusion injury in vivo. An in vitro model of ischemic renal injury was used in cultured human proximal tubule (HK-2) cells to further elucidate the protective signaling cascades against renal ischemic reperfusion injury. ATP depletion preconditioning (1 h of antimycin A and 2-deoxyglucose treatment followed by 1 h of recovery), adenosine, an A(1) adenosine receptor selective agonist, or an A(2a) adenosine receptor selective agonist significantly attenuated subsequent severe ATP depletion injury of HK-2 cells. In contrast, an adenosine receptor antagonist failed to prevent protection induced by ATP depletion preconditioning. Cytoprotection by ATP depletion preconditioning or A(1) adenosine receptor activation was prevented by inhibitors of extracellular signal-regulated mitogen-activated kinases, protein kinase C, and tyrosine kinases. The A(1) and A(2a) adenosine receptor-mediated cytoprotection were also dependent on G(i/o) proteins and PKA activation, respectively. It is concluded that ATP depletion preconditioning and A(1) and A(2a) adenosine receptor activation protect HK-2 cells against severe ATP depletion injury via distinct signaling pathways.

Adenosine A2A agonist reduces paralysis after spinal cord ischemia: correlation with A2A receptor expression on motor neurons

BACKGROUND

The adenosine A2A agonist ATL-146e ameliorates reperfusion inflammation, reducing subsequent paralysis and neuronal apoptosis after spinal cord ischemia. We hypothesized that neuroprotection with ATL-146e involves inducible neuronal adenosine A2A receptors (A2A-R) that are upregulated after ischemia.

METHODS

Eighteen rabbits underwent laparotomy, and 14 sustained spinal cord ischemia from cross-clamping the infrarenal aorta for 45 minutes. One group (ischemia-reperfusion [I/R] + ATL) received ATL-146e intravenously for 3 hours during spinal cord reperfusion. A second group (I/R) received equivolume intravenous saline solution for 3 hours and served as an ischemic control, and a third group (Sham) underwent sham laparotomy. At 48 hours, all subjects were assessed for motor impairment using the Tarlov scoring system (0 to 5). Lumbar spinal cord sections were immunolabeled for A2A-R and graded in a blinded fashion using light microscopy.

RESULTS

There was a significant improvement in Tarlov scores in I/R + ATL animals compared with the I/R group. Sham-operated animals demonstrated no A2A-R immunoreactivity. There was a dramatic increase in A2A-R immunoreactivity in neurons of lumbar spinal cord sections from I/R compared with I/R + ATL and sham-operated animals.

CONCLUSIONS

Reduction in paralysis in animals receiving ATL-146e correlates with the new finding of A2A-R expression on lumbar spinal cord motor neurons after ischemia. Adenosine A2A agonists may exert neuroprotective effects by binding to inducible neuronal A2A-R that are upregulated during spinal cord reperfusion, and reduced in response to administration of an A2A-R-specific agonist.

Up-regulation of A(2A) adenosine receptors by proinflammatory cytokines in rat PC12 cells

The purpose of this study was to examine the regulation of A(2A) adenosine receptor (A(2A) AR) gene expression induced by proinflammatory cytokines in PC12 cells. The A(2A) AR mRNA levels were substantially increased following 3-48 hr PC12 cell treatment with interleukin 1 beta (500 unit/mL) or tumor necrosis factor alpha (1000 unit/mL), as revealed by RT-PCR analysis. In parallel, cell cytokine treatment induced an up-regulation of A(2A) receptor protein. Equilibrium radioligand binding studies on treated-cells showed a significant increase in maximum density of [3H] 2-(carboxyethylphenylethylamino) adenosine-5'-carboxamide binding sites, with no significant changes in the affinity constant value. The increase in A(2A) receptor density was also demonstrated by Western blot analysis. Interleukin 1 beta and tumor necrosis factor alpha effects on A(2A) AR mRNA and protein levels were detectable after 3 hr cytokine treatment and reached a maximum within 24 and 48 hr, respectively. These results demonstrated the existence of heterologous regulation of A(2A) ARs by proinflammatory cytokines. The biological significance of this regulation might be associated with modulating cellular activity in response to tissue damage associated with inflammatory mediator production.

Adenosine attenuates oxidant injury in human proximal tubular cells via A(1) and A(2a) adenosine receptors

We have recently demonstrated protection against renal ischemic-reperfusion injury in vivo by A(1)- and A(2a)-adenosine receptor (AR) modulations. To further elucidate the signaling cascades of AR-induced cytoprotection against reperfusion/oxidant-mediated injury, immortalized human proximal tubule (HK-2) cells were treated with H(2)O(2). H(2)O(2) caused dose- and time-dependent HK-2 cell death that was measured by lactate dehydrogenase release and trypan blue dye uptake. Adenosine protected against H(2)O(2)-induced HK-2 cell death by means of A(1)- and A(2a)-AR activation. A(1)-AR-mediated protection involves pertussis toxin-sensitive G proteins and protein kinase C, whereas A(2a)-AR-mediated protection involves protein kinase A activation by means of cAMP and activation of the cAMP response element binding protein. Moreover, protein kinase A activators (forskolin and Sp-isomer cAMP) also protected HK-2 cells against H(2)O(2) injury. De novo gene transcription and protein synthesis are required for both A(1)- and A(2a)-AR-mediated cytoprotection as actinomycin D and cycloheximide, respectively, blocked cytoprotection. Chronic treatments with a nonselective AR agonist abolished the protection by adenosine. Moreover, chronic treatments with a nonselective AR antagonist increased the endogenous tolerance of HK-2 cells against H(2)O(2). We concluded that A(1)- and A(2a)-AR activation protects HK-2 cells against H(2)O(2)-induced injury by means of distinct signaling pathways that require new gene transcription and new protein synthesis.

Differential expression of adenosine receptors in human endothelial cells: role of A2B receptors in angiogenic factor regulation

Adenosine has been reported to stimulate or inhibit the release of angiogenic factors depending on the cell type examined. To test the hypothesis that differential expression of adenosine receptor subtypes contributes to endothelial cell heterogeneity, we studied microvascular (HMEC-1) and umbilical vein (HUVEC) human endothelial cells. Based on mRNA level and stimulation of adenylate cyclase, we found that HUVECs preferentially express A2A adenosine receptors and HMEC-1 preferentially express A2B receptors. Neither cells expressed A1 or A3 receptors. The nonselective adenosine agonist 5'-N-ethylcarboxamidoadenosine (NECA) increased expression of interleukin-8 (IL-8), basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in HMEC-1, but had no effect in HUVECs. In contrast, the selective A2A agonist 2-p-(2-carboxyethyl)phenylethylamino-NECA (CGS 21680) had no effect on expression of these angiogenic factors. Cotransfection of each type of adenosine receptors with a luciferase reporter in HMEC-1 showed that A2B receptors, but not A1, A2A, or A3, activated IL-8 and VEGF promoters. These effects were mimicked by constitutively active alphaG(q), alphaG12, and alphaG13, but not alphaG(s) or alphaG(i1-3). Furthermore, stimulation of phospholipase C indicated coupling of A2B receptors to G(q) proteins in HMEC-1. Thus, differential expression of adenosine receptor subtypes contributes to functional heterogeneity of human endothelial cells. A2B receptors, predominantly expressed in human microvascular cells, modulate expression of angiogenic factors via coupling to G(q), and possibly via G12/13.

Distinctive features of Trk neurotrophin receptor transactivation by G protein-coupled receptors

Ligands for G protein-coupled receptors (GPCR) are capable of activating mitogenic receptor tyrosine kinases, in addition to the mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase signaling pathway and classic G protein-dependent signaling pathways involving adenylyl cyclase and phospholipase. For example, receptors for epidermal growth factor (EGF), insulin-like growth-1 and platelet-derived growth factor and can be transactivated through G protein-coupled receptors. Neurotrophins, such as NGF, BDNF and NT-3 also utilize receptor tyrosine kinases, namely TrkA, TrkB and TrkC. Recently, it has been shown that activation of Trk receptor tyrosine kinases can also occur via a G protein-coupled receptor mechanism, without involvement of neurotrophins. Adenosine and adenosine agonists can activate Trk receptor phosphorylation specifically through the seven transmembrane spanning adenosine 2A (A2A) receptor. Several features of Trk receptor transactivation are noteworthy and differ significantly from other transactivation events. Trk receptor transactivation is slower and results in a selective increase in activated Akt. Unlike the biological actions of other tyrosine kinase receptors, increased Trk receptor activity by adenosine resulted in increased cell survival. This article will discuss potential mechanisms by which adenosine can activate trophic responses through Trk tyrosine kinase receptors.

Purification and characterization of the human adenosine A(2a) receptor functionally expressed in Escherichia coli

The adenosine A(2a) receptor belongs to the seven transmembrane helix G-protein-coupled receptor family, is abundant in striatum, vasculature and platelets and is involved in several physiological processes such as blood pressure regulation and protection of cells during anoxia. For structural and biophysical studies we have expressed the human adenosine A(2a) receptor (hA2aR) at high levels inserted into the Escherichia coli inner membrane, and established a purification scheme. Expression was in fusion with the periplasmic maltose-binding protein to levels of 10-20 nmol of receptor per L of culture, as detected with the specific antagonist ligand [(3)H]ZM241385. As the receptor C-terminus was proteolyzed upon solubilization, a protease-resistant but still functional receptor was created by truncation to Ala316. Addition of the sterol, cholesteryl hemisuccinate, allowed a stable preparation of functional hA2aR solubilized in dodecylmaltoside to be obtained, and, increased the stability of the receptor solubilized in other alkylmaltosides. Purification to homogeneity was achieved in three steps, including ligand affinity chromatography based on the antagonist xanthine amine congener. The purified hA2aR fusion protein bound [(3)H]ZM241385 with a K(d) of 0.19 nm and an average B(max) of 13.7 nmol x mg(-1) that suggests 100% functionality. Agonist affinities for the purified solubilized receptor were higher than those for the membrane-bound form. Sufficient pure, functional hA2aR can now be prepared regularly for structural studies.

The neuroprotective actions of FK506 binding protein ligands: neuronal survival is triggered by de novo RNA synthesis, but is independent of inhibition of JNK and calcineurin

The immunosuppressant FK506 displays substantial neuroprotective and neuroregenerative effects. It is not fully understood to which extent these effects depend on the inhibition of the calcineurin phosphatase (PP2B). The present study has re-addressed this issue using Lie120, a novel highly specific inhibitor of calcineurin, which does not block the enzymatic activity of FKBPs or cyclophilins, respectively. We have determined the effect of FK506 (10-500 nM), V-10,367 (a FK506 derivative which does not block calcineurin; 1-5 microM) and Lie120 (a novel specific inhibitor of calcineurin, 0.1-5 microM) on the cellular survival and the pro-degenerative JNK activity of PC12 and Neuro2A cells following application of 200 microM H(2)O(2). FK506 and V-10,367, but not Lie120, protected both cell lines against H(2)O(2)-mediated death, whereas an increase in JNK1 activity was blocked by FK506 and Lie120, but not by V-10,367. Co-incubation of FK506 and V-10,367 with the mRNA synthesis inhibitor actinomycin D abolished the protective effect of FK506 and V-10,367. This antagonization was effective when actinomycin D was applied 30 min or 1 h, but not 2 or 4 h, after H(2)O(2) suggesting that FKBP-ligands confer their neuroprotection by rapid de novo synthesis of (functionally) anti-apoptotic proteins. The search for the corresponding effector genes revealed that the expression of FKBP25, FKBP38 and FKBP52 (analysis by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) did not change following H(2)O(2) or FK506, and this was also true for the expression of apoptosis-related genes caspase 3, bax, bcl-2 and bcl-xL (analysis by Multiplex-PCR). Summarizing, neuronal protection by FKBP-ligands is not mediated either by calcineurin or by JNK1 in this experimental set-up, whereas the FK506 mediated inhibition of JNK1 is realized by the inhibition of calcineurin, an effective activator of JNK1 in neurons.

Adenosine A2Aand A2Breceptor activation of erythropoietin production

First published July 12, 2001; 10.1152/ajprenal.0083.2001.—We have examined the effects of adenosine receptors and protein kinases A and C in the regulation of erythropoietin (Epo) production using hepatocellular carcinoma (Hep3B) cells in culture and in vivo in normal mice under normoxic and hypoxic conditions. CGS-21680, a selective adenosine A2Aagonist, significantly increased levels of Epo in normoxic Hep3B cell cultures and in serum of normal mice under both normoxic and hypoxic conditions. CGS-21680 also produced a significant increase in Epo mRNA levels in Hep3B cell cultures. SCH-58261, a selective adenosine A2Areceptor antagonist, significantly inhibited the increase in medium levels of Epo in Hep3B cell cultures exposed to hypoxia (1% O2). Enprofylline, a selective adenosine A2Breceptor antagonist, significantly inhibited the increase in plasma levels of Epo in normal mice exposed to hypoxia. Chelerythrine chloride, an antagonist of protein kinase C activation, significantly inhibited hypoxia-induced increases in serum levels of Epo in normal mice. A model is presented for adenosine in hypoxic regulation of Epo production that involves kinases A and C and phospholipase A2pathways.

Adenosine A(2A) and A(2B) receptor activation of erythropoietin production

We have examined the effects of adenosine receptors and protein kinases A and C in the regulation of erythropoietin (Epo) production using hepatocellular carcinoma (Hep3B) cells in culture and in vivo in normal mice under normoxic and hypoxic conditions. CGS-21680, a selective adenosine A(2A) agonist, significantly increased levels of Epo in normoxic Hep3B cell cultures and in serum of normal mice under both normoxic and hypoxic conditions. CGS-21680 also produced a significant increase in Epo mRNA levels in Hep3B cell cultures. SCH-58261, a selective adenosine A(2A) receptor antagonist, significantly inhibited the increase in medium levels of Epo in Hep3B cell cultures exposed to hypoxia (1% O(2)). Enprofylline, a selective adenosine A(2B) receptor antagonist, significantly inhibited the increase in plasma levels of Epo in normal mice exposed to hypoxia. Chelerythrine chloride, an antagonist of protein kinase C activation, significantly inhibited hypoxia-induced increases in serum levels of Epo in normal mice. A model is presented for adenosine in hypoxic regulation of Epo production that involves kinases A and C and phospholipase A(2) pathways.

Protein kinase C and changes in manganese superoxide dismutase gene expression in cultured glial cells

1. To study the role of protein kinase C (PKC) in the increase in manganese superoxide dismutase (Mn-SOD) gene expression following transient hypoxia in glial cells, we examined the mRNA levels of Mn-SOD using northern blot analysis. 2. The Mn-SOD mRNA levels were markedly increased after exposure to nitrogen gas for 5 min. 3. Pretreatment with chelerythrine or GF109203x, inhibitors of PKC, attenuated the increase in Mn-SOD mRNA following hypoxia in a concentration-dependent manner. 4. Incubation with phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate, the PKC activator, enhanced the increase in Mn-SOD gene expression in response to transient hypoxia. 5. The results suggest that hypoxia increases Mn-SOD gene expression in cultured glial cells mainly through activation of a PKC pathway.

Orphan G protein-coupled receptor, GPR41, induces apoptosis via a p53/Bax pathway during ischemic hypoxia and reoxygenation

Orphan receptors that couple to G protein without known ligands are considered to relate directly to drug discovery. Here, we examine the expression of various orphan receptors in H9c2 cells during ischemic hypoxia and reoxygenation. Among orphan receptors examined, the level of G protein-coupled receptor 41 (GPR41) mRNA increases significantly, with a peak at 2 h after reoxygenation, and recovers to the control level by 3 h after reoxygenation. The level of glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase mRNA used as an internal control remains almost constant. The levels of c-fos and c-jun mRNA increase significantly with ischemic hypoxia and reoxygenation. The transfection of GPR41 into H9c2 cells results in a significant decrease in cell number, with DNA fragmentation observed by in vitro and in situ assay. The amount of p53 protein increases significantly in the nuclei of cells expressing GPR41, accompanying an increase in the transcriptional activity of p53. Consistent with the activation of p53, the level of bax mRNA is significantly increased, which leads to an increase in Bax protein. Furthermore, the expression of a deletion mutant of a GPR41, which lacks the G protein binding site and shows an attenuation of intracellular phosphorylation signals to H9c2 cells, inhibits cell death and the increase in p53 protein within 24 h after reoxygenation. These observations demonstrate that GPR41 is a novel receptor that activates p53 leading to apoptosis during reoxygenation after ischemic hypoxia in H9c2 cells. We have designated GPR41 as the hypoxia-induced apoptosis receptor, HIA-R.

Activation of protein kinase A and atypical protein kinase C by A(2A) adenosine receptors antagonizes apoptosis due to serum deprivation in PC12 cells

We found in the present study that stimulation of A(2A) adenosine receptors (A(2A)-R) prevents apoptosis in PC12 cells. This A(2A)-protective effect was blocked by protein kinase A (PKA) inhibitors and was not observed in a PKA-deficient PC12 variant. Stimulation of PKA also prevented apoptosis, suggesting that PKA is required for the protective effect of A(2A)-R. A general PKC inhibitor, but not down-regulation of conventional and novel PKCs, readily blocked the protective effect of A(2A)-R stimulation and PKA activation, suggesting that atypical PKCs (aPKCs) serve a critical role downstream of PKA. Consistent with this hypothesis, stimulation of A(2A)-R or PKA enhanced nuclear aPKC activity. In addition, the A(2A)-protective effect was blocked by a specific inhibitor of one aPKC, PKCzeta, whereas overexpression of a dominant-positive PKCzeta enhanced survival. In contrast, inhibitors of MAP kinase and phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase did not modulate the A(2A)-protective effect. Dominant-negative Akt also did not alter the A(2A)-protective effect, whereas it significantly reduced the protective action of nerve growth factor. Collectively, these data suggest that aPKCs can function downstream of PKA to mediate the A(2A)-R-promoted survival of PC12 cells. Furthermore, the results indicate that different extracellular stimuli can employ distinct signaling pathways to protect against apoptosis induced by the same insult.

Regulation of N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor expression and N-methyl-D-aspartate-induced cellular response during chronic hypoxia in differentiated rat PC12 cells

The purpose of the present study was to examine the effect of chronic hypoxia on N-methyl-D-aspartate-mediated cellular responses in differentiated PC12 cells. PC12 cells were differentiated by treatment with nerve growth factor. Patch-clamp analysis in differentiated PC12 cells showed that extracellularly applied N-methyl-D-aspartate induced an inward current that was abolished by the presence of the N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor antagonist MK-801. Results from Ca(2+) imaging experiments showed that N-methyl-D-aspartate induced an elevation in intracellular free Ca(2+) which was also abolished by MK-801. We also examined the effect of hypoxia on the N-methyl-D-aspartate-induced current in nerve growth factor-treated cells. We found that the N-methyl-D-aspartate-induced inward current and the N-methyl-D-aspartate-induced elevation in intracellular free Ca(2+) were markedly attenuated by chronic hypoxia. We next examined the possibility that the reduced N-methyl-D-aspartate responsiveness was due to down-regulation of N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor levels. Northern blot and immunoblot analyses showed that both messenger RNA and protein levels for N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor subunit 1 were markedly decreased during hypoxia. However, the messenger RNA for N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor subunit 2C was increased, whereas the protein level for subunit 2C did not change. Our results indicate that differentiated PC12 cells express functional N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors and that chronic exposure to hypoxia attenuates the N-methyl-D-aspartate-induced Ca(2+) accumulation in these cells via down-regulation of N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor subunit 1. This mechanism may play an important role in protecting PC12 cells against hypoxic stress.

Hypoxia regulates glutamate metabolism and membrane transport in rat PC12 cells

We investigated the effect of hypoxia on glutamate metabolism and uptake in rat pheochromocytoma (PC12) cells. Various key enzymes relevant to glutamate production, metabolism and transport were coordinately regulated by hypoxia. PC12 cells express two glutamate-metabolizing enzymes, glutamine synthetase (GS) and glutamate decarboxylase (GAD), as well as the glutamate-producing enzyme, phosphate-activated glutaminase (PAG). Exposure to hypoxia (1% O(2)) for 6 h or longer increased expression of GS mRNA and protein and enhanced GS enzymatic activity. In contrast, hypoxia caused a significant decrease in expression of PAG mRNA and protein, and also decreased PAG activity. In addition, hypoxia led to an increase in GAD65 and GAD67 protein levels and GAD enzymatic activity. PC12 cells express three Na(+)-dependent glutamate transporters; EAAC1, GLT-1 and GLAST. Hypoxia increased EAAC1 and GLT-1 protein levels, but had no effect on GLAST. Chronic hypoxia significantly enhanced the Na(+)-dependent component of glutamate transport. Furthermore, chronic hypoxia decreased cellular content of glutamate, but increased that of glutamine. Taken together, the hypoxia-induced changes in enzymes related to glutamate metabolism and transport are consistent with a decrease in the extracellular concentration of glutamate. This may have a role in protecting PC12 cells from the cytotoxic effects of glutamate during chronic hypoxia.

The molecular basis of O2-sensing and hypoxia tolerance in pheochromocytoma cells

Hypoxia is a common environmental stimulus. However, very little is known about the mechanisms by which cells sense and respond to changes in oxygen. Our laboratory has utilized the PC12 cell line in order to study the biophysical and molecular response to hypoxia. The current review summarizes our results. We demonstrate that the O2-sensitive K(+) channel, Kv1.2, is present in PC12 cells and plays a critical role in the hypoxia-induced depolarization of PC12 cells. Previous studies have shown that PC12 cells secrete a variety of autocrine/paracrine factors, including dopamine, norepinephrine, and adenosine during hypoxia. We investigated the mechanisms by which adenosine modulates cell function and the effect of chronic hypoxia on this modulation. Finally, we present results identifying the mitogen- and stress-activated protein kinases (MAPKs and SAPKs) as hypoxia-regulated protein kinases. Specifically, we show that p38 and an isoform, p38gamma, are activated by hypoxia. In addition, our results demonstrate that the p42/p44 MAPK protein kinases are activated by hypoxia. We further show that p42/p44 MAPK is critical for the hypoxia-induced transactivation of endothelial PAS-domain protein 1 (EPAS1), a hypoxia-inducible transcription factor. Together, these results provide greater insight into the mechanisms by which cells sense and adapt to hypoxia.

Hypoxia activates Akt and induces phosphorylation of GSK-3 in PC12 cells

Akt is a serine/threonine kinase that has been shown to play a central role in promoting cell survival and opposing apoptosis. We evaluated the effect of hypoxia on Akt in rat pheochromocytoma (PC12) cells. PC12 cells were exposed to varying levels of hypoxia, including 21%, 15%, 10%, 5%, and 1% O(2). Hypoxia dramatically increased phosphorylation of Akt (Ser(473)). This effect peaked after 6 h exposure to hypoxia, but persisted strongly for up to 24 h. Phosphorylation of Akt was paralleled with a progressive increase in phosphorylation of glycogen synthase kinase-3 (GSK-3), one of its downstream substrates. The effect of hypoxia on phosphorylation of Akt was completely blocked by pretreatment of the cells with wortmannin (100 nM), indicating that this effect is mediated by phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (P13K). In contrast, whereas hypoxia also strongly induced phosphorylation of the transcription factors CREB and EPAS1, these effects persisted in the presence of wortmannin. Thus, hypoxia regulates both P13K-dependent and P13K-independent signaling pathways. Furthermore, activation of the P13K and Akt signaling pathways may be one mechanism by which cells adapt and survive under conditions of hypoxia.

Parallel modification of adenosine extracellular metabolism and modulatory action in the hippocampus of aged rats

The neuromodulator adenosine can be released as such, mainly activating inhibitory A1 receptors, or formed from released ATP, preferentially activating facilitatory A2A receptors. We tested if changes in extracellular adenosine metabolism paralleled changes in A1/A2A receptor neuromodulation in the aged rat hippocampus. The evoked release and extracellular catabolism of ATP were 49-55% lower in aged rats, but ecto-5'-nucleotidase activity, which forms adenosine, was 5-fold higher whereas adenosine uptake was decreased by 50% in aged rats. The evoked extracellular adenosine accumulation was 30% greater in aged rats and there was a greater contribution of the ecto-nucleotidase pathway and a lower contribution of adenosine transporters for extracellular adenosine formation in nerve terminals. Interestingly, a supramaximal concentration of an A1 receptor agonist, N6-cyclopentyladenosine (250 nM) was less efficient in inhibiting (17% in old versus 34% in young) and A2A receptor activation with 30 nM CGS21680 was more efficient in facilitating (63% in old versus no effect in young) acetylcholine release from hippocampal slices of aged compared with young rats. The parallel changes in the metabolic sources of extracellular adenosine and A1/A2A receptor neuromodulation in aged rats further strengthens the idea that different metabolic sources of extracellular adenosine are designed to preferentially activate different adenosine receptor subtypes.

Hypoxic augmentation of fast-inactivating and persistent sodium currents in rat caudal hypothalamic neurons

Previous work from this laboratory has indicated that TTX-sensitive sodium channels are involved in the hypoxia-induced inward current response of caudal hypothalamic neurons. Since this inward current underlies the depolarization and increased firing frequency observed in these cells during hypoxia, the present study utilized more detailed biophysical methods to specifically determine which sodium currents are responsible for this hypoxic activation. Caudal hypothalamic neurons from approximately 3-wk-old Sprague-Dawley rats were acutely dissociated and patch-clamped in the voltage-clamp mode to obtain recordings from fast-inactivating and persistent (noninactivating) whole cell sodium currents. Using computer-generated activation and inactivation voltage protocols, rapidly inactivating sodium currents were analyzed during normal conditions and during a brief (3-6 min) period of severe hypoxia. In addition, voltage-ramp and extended-voltage-activation protocols were used to analyze persistent sodium currents during normal conditions and during hypoxia. A polarographic oxygen electrode determined that the level of oxygen in this preparation quickly dropped to 10 Torr within 2 min of initiation of hypoxia and stabilized at <0.5 Torr within 4 min. During hypoxia, the peak fast-inactivating sodium current was significantly increased throughout the entire activation range, and both the activation and inactivation values (V(1/2)) were negatively shifted. Furthermore both the voltage-ramp and extended-activation protocols demonstrated a significant increase in the persistent sodium current during hypoxia when compared with normoxia. These results demonstrate that both rapidly inactivating and persistent sodium currents are significantly enhanced by a brief hypoxic stimulus. Furthermore the hypoxic-induced increase in these currents most likely is the primary mechanism for the depolarization and increased firing frequency observed in caudal hypothalamic neurons during hypoxia. Since these neurons are important in modulating cardiorespiratory activity, the oxygen responsiveness of these sodium currents may play a significant role in the centrally mediated cardiorespiratory response to hypoxia.

Stimulatory and inhibitory effects of adenosine A(2A) receptors on nerve growth factor-induced phosphorylation of extracellular regulated kinases 1/2 in PC12 cells

Effects of nerve growth factor (NGF), adenosine and an adenosine A(2A) receptor agonist (CGS 21680) on the phosphorylation of extracellular-regulated kinases 1/2 (ERK1/2) were examined in PC12 cells. Adenosine and CGS 21680stimulated ERK1/2, but inhibited the phosphorylation of ERK1/2 induced by a 10 min incubation with NGF. Longer treatment with CGS 21680 and NGF (1-2h) resulted in an additive effect on the activation of ERK1/2. Forskolin exerted the same effects, suggesting that they are mediated by cyclic AMP. These results indicate that adenosine A(2A) receptor induced increases in cyclic AMP can stimulate ERK1/2 phosphorylation per se, inhibit the initial and enhance the late NGF-induced activation of ERK1/2. These results may be explained by the fact that NGF action is mediated via different pathways at early and late time points.

Gene expression and function of adenosine A(2A) receptor in the rat carotid body

The present study was undertaken to determine whether rat carotid bodies express adenosine (Ado) A(2A) receptors and whether this receptor is involved in the cellular response to hypoxia. Our results demonstrate that rat carotid bodies express the A(2A) and A(2B) Ado receptor mRNAs but not the A(1) or A(3) receptor mRNAs as determined by reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction. In situ hybridization confirmed the expression of the A(2A) receptor mRNA. Immunohistochemical studies further showed that the A(2A) receptor is expressed in the carotid body and that it is colocalized with tyrosine hydroxylase in type I cells. Whole cell voltage-clamp studies using isolated type I cells showed that Ado inhibited the voltage-dependent Ca(2+) currents and that this inhibition was abolished by the selective A(2A) receptor antagonist ZM-241385. Ca(2+) imaging studies using fura 2 revealed that exposure to severe hypoxia induced elevation of intracellular Ca(2+) concentration ([Ca(2+)](i)) in type I cells and that extracellularly applied Ado significantly attenuated the hypoxia-induced elevation of [Ca(2+)](i). Taken together, our findings indicate that A(2A) receptors are present in type I cells and that activation of A(2A) receptors modulates Ca(2+) accumulation during hypoxia. This mechanism may play a role in regulating intracellular Ca(2+) homeostasis and cellular excitability during hypoxia.

Novel regulation of p38gamma by dopamine D2 receptors during hypoxia

The p38 signalling pathway is part of the MAPK superfamily and is activated by various stressors. Our previous results have shown that two p38 isoforms, p38alpha and p38gamma, are activated by hypoxia in the neural-like PC12 cell line. PC12 cells also synthesize and secrete catecholamines, including dopamine, in response to hypoxia. We have now used this system to study the interaction between D2-dopamine receptor signalling and the p38 stress-activated protein kinases. Our results show that two D2 receptor antagonists, butaclamol and sulpiride, enhance hypoxia-induced phosphorylation of p38gamma, but not p38. This effect persists in protein kinase A (PKA)-deficient PC12 cells, demonstrating that p38gamma modulation by the D2 receptor is independent of the cAMP/PKA signalling system. We further show that removal of extracellular calcium blocks the hypoxia-induced increase in p38gamma activity. These results are the first to demonstrate that p38gamma can be regulated by the D2 receptor and calcium following hypoxic exposure.

Chronic hypoxia enhances adenosine release in rat PC12 cells by altering adenosine metabolism and membrane transport

Acute exposure to hypoxia causes a release of adenosine (ADO) that is inversely related to the O2 levels in oxygen-sensitive pheochromocytoma (PC12) cells. In the current study, chronic exposure (48 h) of PC12 cells to moderate hypoxia (5% O2) significantly enhanced the release of ADO during severe, acute hypoxia (1% O2). Investigation into the intra- and extracellular mechanisms underpinning the secretion of ADO in PC12 cells chronically exposed to hypoxia revealed changes in gene expression and activities of several key enzymes associated with ADO production and metabolism, as well as the down-regulation of a nucleoside transporter. Decreases in the enzymatic activities of ADO kinase and ADO deaminase accompanied by an increase in those of cytoplasmic and ecto-5'-nucleotidases bring about an increased capacity to produce intra- and extracellular ADO. This increased potential to generate ADO and decreased capacity to metabolize ADO indicate that PC12 cells shift toward an ADO producer phenotype during hypoxia. The reduced function of the rat equilibrative nucleoside transporter rENT1 also plays a role in controlling extracellular ADO levels. The hypoxia-induced alterations in the ADO metabolic enzymes and the rENT1 transporter seem to increase the extracellular concentration of ADO. The biological significance of this regulation is unclear but is likely to be associated with modulating cellular activity during hypoxia.

Central adenosine A(2A) receptors: an overview

Recent advances in molecular biology, biochemistry, cell biology and behavioral pharmacology together with the development of more selective ligands to the various adenosine receptors have increased our understanding of the functioning of central adenosine A(2A) receptors. The A(2A) receptor is one of four adenosine receptors found in the brain. Its expression is highest in striatum, nucleus accumbens and olfactory tubercles, although it also occurs in neurons and microglia in most other brain regions. The receptor has seven transmembrane domains and couples via Gs to adenyl cyclase stimulation. Antagonistic interactions between A(2A) receptors and dopamine D(2) receptors have been described, as stimulation of the A(2A) receptor leads to a reduction in the affinity of D(2) receptors for D(2) receptor agonists. The A(2A) receptor is thought to play a role in a number of physiological responses and pathological conditions. Indeed, A(2A) receptor antagonists may be useful for the treatment of acute and chronic neurodegenerative disorders such as cerebral ischemia or Parkinson's disease. A(2A) receptor agonists may treat certain types of seizures or sleep disorders. This review discusses the characteristics, distribution, pharmacochemical properties and regulation of central A(2A) receptors, as well as A(2A) receptor-mediated behavioural responses and their potential role in various neuropsychiatric disorders.