Neurotensin: discovery, isolation, characterization, synthesis and possible physiological roles

Stimulation of phagocytic function in mouse macrophages by neurotensin and neuromedin N

The neuropeptides neurotensin and neuromedin N (from 10(-12) M to 10(-9) M) have been shown in this study to stimulate significantly in vitro several steps of the phagocytic process: adherence to substrate, chemotaxis, ingestion of inert particles (latex beads) and production of superoxide anion measured by nitroblue tetrazolium reduction in resting peritoneal macrophages from BALB/c mice. A dose-response relationship was observed, with a maximal stimulation of the phagocytic process at 10(-11) M. The two neuropeptides induced no change of intracellular cyclic AMP in murine macrophages. Moreover, adherence and chemotaxis decreased significantly in the presence of EGTA (1 mM), a chelator of extracellular Ca2+, or ryanodine (0.5 mM), a blocker of a Ca(2+)-gated channel from the endoplasmic reticulum, in both controls and samples with the addition of neurotensin or neuromedin N. These results suggest that there is no relation between the cAMP messenger system and the phagocytic process stimulation in murine peritoneal macrophages by neurotensin or neuromedin N. In addition, the results observed with EGTA and ryanodine could indicate that these two neuropeptides produce their effects through an increase of intracellular Ca2+ concentration.

Inhibitory effects of the neurotensin8-13 analogs Asp13-NT8-13 and Asp12-NT8-13 on mast cell secretion

Pretreatment of isolated mast cells with analogs of neurotensin 8-13 (NT8-13), in which the amino acids Leu13 or Ile12 are replaced with an aspartic acid (Asp13-NT8-13 or Asp12-NT8-13), inhibits the secretion of histamine in response to NT. A 10 min pretreatment with either analog (10 microM) inhibited NT-induced histamine release by 90% (Asp13-NT8-13) or by 98% (Asp12-NT8-13). At concentrations that are inhibitory, Asp13-NT8-13 and Asp12-NT8-13 alone elicit very little release (< 5% at 10 microM). In the continued presence of the analogs, the inhibitory effect lasts for more than 45 min; removal of the analogs resulted in restoration of sensitivity to NT within 10 min. Pretreatment with analog Asp13-NT8-13 resulted in a 39% inhibition of stimulation by substance P and a 52% inhibition of stimulation by histamine-releasing peptide (HRP). In contrast, pretreatment with analog Asp12-NT8-13 gave no inhibition of release by SP or HRP. Neither analog inhibited histamine release in response to bradykinin (BK), NT1-12, compound 48/80 (48/80), the calcium ionophore A23187, or anti-IgE stimulation of passively sensitized mast cells. Although Asp12-NT8-13 and Asp13-NT8-13 differ slightly in regard to the peptides they inhibit, both probably act at a step early in the stimulus-secretion coupling sequence; most likely before the rise in the level of free intracellular calcium that has been shown to accompany secretion in mast cells. It is suggested that these analogs exert their inhibitory effect on NT by competing with NT for a binding site on the mast cell membrane.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Phospholipase C activation by neurotensin and neuromedin N in Chinese hamster ovary cells expressing the rat neurotensin receptor

The rat neurotensin receptor cDNA sequence was transfected in Chinese hamster ovary cells and cellular clones which stably express the corresponding protein were isolated and characterized. The Scatchard analysis of the specific binding of [3H]neurotensin indicated a Kd value of 0.45 +/- 0.08 nM and a Bmax value of 3.27 +/- 0.29 pmol/mg of protein. Displacement experiments using peptidic analogs of neurotensin and levocabastine confirmed that the transfected receptor exhibits the binding properties of the neurotensin receptor characterized in the rat brain. Neurotensin stimulated the phosphoinositides hydrolysis in a time- and concentration-dependent manner and this effect was mimicked by neurotensin(8-13) and by neuromedin N. The stimulation of phosphoinositides hydrolysis was not inhibited by pertussis toxin. These results indicate that the transfected cells actively express the rat neurotensin receptor which is functionally coupled to phospholipase C through a pertussis toxin-insensitive GTP-binding protein, and that neuromedin N is able to induce the phosphoinositides turnover by interaction with the neurotensin receptor.

The structure of neuropeptide receptors

Recently, the primary structures of 17 different receptors for neuropeptides and small peptide hormones have been elucidated by molecular cloning. All but one belong to the superfamily of G-protein coupled receptors which share a topography consisting of seven transmembrane domains. Comparison of primary structures shows that two classes of peptide receptors exist. One referred to as the 'neurokinin-type receptors', possesses many of the typical, conserved amino acid sequence motifs of the aminergic transmitter receptors (e.g. beta-adrenoceptor). The other, referred to the 'secretin-type receptors', displays unrelated and distinctly different sequence motifs which are conserved between the three presently known members of this class. These are the secretin, calcitonin and parathyroid hormone/parathyroid hormone-like polypeptide receptors. One may speculate that many other peptides with a core of biological activity in the N-terminal or middle region may have receptors of the secretin-type.

Different relative abundance of neurotensin and neuromedin N in bovine ocular tissues

Neurotensin (NT) and neuromedin N (NN) are regulatory peptides encoded by the same gene and located in tandem within a common precursor. Using specific radioimmunoassays for both peptides, their relative abundance in extracts of bovine ocular tissues has been examined. Within the retina, the molar concentration of NN was significantly higher (P less than 0.001) than that of NT. In contrast, within both choroid/sclera and iris/ciliary bodies, the molar concentration of NT was significantly higher (P less than 0.001) than that of NN. These data demonstrate that the theoretical molar ratio of 1:1, which would result from complete processing of both peptides from the common precursor, does not occur in any of the ocular tissues examined. Reverse phase HPLC of extracts of each ocular tissue confirmed the differential abundance of NT and NN. These data would suggest that the common NT/NN precursor is differentially-processed within bovine ocular tissues, a finding which may be of physiological significance.

The neurobiology of neurotensin: focus on neurotensin-dopamine interactions

Neurotensin (NT) is a tridecapeptide which fulfills many of the requisite criteria for a role as a central nervous system (CNS) neurotransmitter. It is closely associated with CNS dopamine neurons and has been shown to interact with dopamine at physiological, anatomical and behavioral levels. Neurotensin is colocalized with dopaminergic neurons in the hypothalamus and midbrain. In addition, it blocks behaviors associated with activation of the dopaminergic pathways. Centrally administered NT has been shown to mimic many of the actions of antipsychotic drugs. In addition, the concentration of NT in cerebrospinal fluid is decreased in patients with schizophrenia. Administration of clinically effective antipsychotic drugs increases concentrations of NT in the caudate nucleus and nucleus accumbens. NT has been shown to play a role in signal transduction by mostly mobilizing calcium stores following inositol phosphate formation. This has been linked to subsequent events in protein phosphorylation. Lipophilic NT receptor agonists may represent a novel approach to the development of a new class of antipsychotic drugs.

Purification and characterization of neurotensin receptor from rat brain with special reference to comparison between newborn and adult age rats

Scatchard analysis of saturation curves was performed to compared newborn and adult rat neurotensin receptor using [3H] neurotensin as a tracer. The membrane fraction of newborn rat cerebral cortex has a single population of neurotensin receptor (Kd = 0.13 nM, Bmax = 710 fmol/mg protein), whereas adults have two distinct neurotensin binding sites (high affinity site, Kd1 = 0.13 nM; low affinity site, Kd2 = 20 nM). High affinity neurotensin receptor, solubilized with digitonin, was purified from newborn rat cortex by affinity chromatography. An overall purification of 14,000-fold was achieved. The binding of [3H] neurotensin to the purified receptor is saturable and specific, with a Kd of 0.45 nM. Sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) in the presence of 2-mercaptoethanol revealed purified material of a single major band of Mr = 55,000.

Conformations of neurotensin in solution and in membrane environments studied by 2-D NMR spectroscopy

Two-dimensional HOHAHA and ROESY nuclear magnetic resonance techniques are used to obtain complete proton resonance assignments and to perform a conformational investigation of the neuropeptide neurotensin (pGlu-Leu-Tyr-Glu-Asn-Lys-Pro-Arg-Arg-Pro-Tyr-Ile-Leu) in aqueous solution, methanol, and membrane-mimetic [deuterated sodium dodecylsulfate (SDS)] environments. Results suggest the absence of discernible elements of secondary structure in water and methanol. ROESY spectra confirm that Lys-Pro and Arg-Pro peptide bonds are all-trans, but that a significant population of cis Arg-Pro bonds arises in aqueous solution, which increases in the environment of SDS micelles. The conformational ensemble of the peptide is observed to narrow as it becomes bound through its cationic mid-region to SDS micelles, with the accompanying advent of local extended structure. The overall results indicate the inherent conformational flexibility of neurotensin, and emphasize the environmental dependence of conformation in peptides of medium length.

Evidence for subdivisions in the human suprachiasmatic nucleus

The human suprachiasmatic nucleus was analysed by immunohistochemical demonstration of various substances in combination with 3-dimensional computerized reconstruction and video overlay facilities. In the human, the suprachiasmatic nucleus is not as compact as in the rodent. Its boundaries are not easily delineated using conventional stains, and it shows no obvious cytoarchitectonic structure. However, based on its chemoarchitecture, the human suprachiasmatic nucleus can be apportioned into five major subdivisions: Dorsal, comprising a crescent shaped mass of densely packed neurophysin/vasopressin-neurons as well as neurotensin-neurons, and also containing 3-fucosyl-N-acetyl-lactosamine (FAL)-positive neurons in its medial part. Central, occupying the core of the nucleus and consisting precisely of a region devoid of neurophysin/vasopressin neurons but demarcated by calbindin, synaptophysin, and a circumscribed cluster of vasoactive intestinal polypeptide-neurons and containing neurotensin neurons as well. Anteroventrally this division also contains some intermingled neurons positive for neurotensin, neuropeptide Y, somatostatin, and FAL. Ventral, extending from the anterior extreme of the preoptic recess caudolaterally to a field between the optic chiasm and the anteroventral margin of the supraoptic nucleus. This subdivision is specified by synaptophysin, calbindin, and substance P immunoreactivity and is almost free of glial fibrillary acidic protein. From its rostral portion, fibers immunoreactive for calbindin, vasoactive intestinal polypeptide, synaptophysin, and substance P protrude deeply into the optic chiasm. Medial, comprising a thin band between the subependymal zone and the dorsal subdivision, containing scattered somatostatin neurons. External, extending as a band around the dorsal and lateral borders of the nucleus, containing astrocytes expressing the FAL-epitope and scattered neurophysin/vasopressin and neurotensin neurons. These findings indicate that the human suprachiasmatic nucleus contains well-defined subdivisions with different, chemically specific, connections and provides a basis for comparing these subdivisions with the structure and function of subdivisions previously described for the suprachiasmatic nucleus in experimental animals. In addition, the findings strengthen the concept that the human suprachiasmatic nucleus generates and expresses circadian rhythms in a manner similar to that documented for the suprachiasmatic nucleus in experimental animals, and suggest that different subdivisions may subserve specific functional roles.

Structure and functional expression of the cloned rat neurotensin receptor

A functional cDNA clone for the rat neurotensin receptor was isolated by combining molecular cloning in an RNA expression vector with an electrophysiological assay in Xenopus oocytes. The neurotensin receptor consists of 424 amino acids with seven putative transmembrane domains and belongs to the family of G protein-coupled receptors. The cloned receptor expressed in mammalian cells or in Xenopus oocytes shows a selective and high-affinity binding to neurotensin peptides and undergoes potent desensitization by repeated application of neurotensin. The neurotensin receptor mRNA is expressed in both the brain and the peripheral tissues at different levels. This investigation discloses the molecular nature of the neurotensin receptor, which mediates the diverse neuronal and peripheral actions of neurotensin by effecting the G protein-associated second messenger system.

Endocrine neoplasms (non-gastrin) of the pancreas

Although neoplasms that produce gut regulatory peptides and amines can be found throughout the gastroenteropancreatic axis (excluding carcinoids), the vast majority of these lesions are found within the pancreas. Recognition of the various clinical syndromes produced by the secretions of these tumors, the development of sensitive and specific radioimmunoassays for the elaborated peptides, and development of more effective localization techniques have contributed to earlier diagnosis and marked improvement in patient care. Treatment is directed toward medical management to correct the metabolic disturbances produced by the excessive amounts of gut regulatory peptides, followed by localization and extirpation of tumor. In the presence of unresectable tumor or metastases, palliative treatment directed at reducing peptide secretion or preventing its effects by surgery, chemotherapy, hormonal therapy, and hepatic-artery embolization can produce long-term remission of symptoms. Because the majority of these tumors are malignant, the ultimate goal in successful patient management is the early detection and surgical excision of the islet cell tumor before metastases occur.

Effects of superior mesenteric and coeliac ganglionectomy on peptide-producing cells of the small intestinal mucosa in the Hanford mini pig. II. Immunohistochemical study

Superior mesenteric and coeliac ganglionectomy was performed in 5 Hanford mini pigs and cholecystokinin (CCK)-immunoreactive I-cells, neurotensin (NT)-immunoreactive N-cells, glucagon (Glu)-immunoreactive L-cells, glicentin (Glic)-immunoreactive L-cells and somatostatin (Som)-immunoreactive D-cells were quantitatively evaluated in the duodenum, the upper, middle and lower jejunum and the ileum before, 3 weeks and 6 months after ganglionectomy. Three additional animals served as controls. After ganglionectomy, I-cell numbers increase by 110% in the upper jejunum and duodenum; N-cells increase by 86% in the lower jejunum. Glu- and Glic-immunoreactive L-cells decrease slightly in the jejunum. In contrast, D-cells decrease in all sections of the small intestine by 44-76% (P less than 0.05 and P less than 0.001). All the examined entero-endocrine cells, except the D-cells in the duodenum and upper jejunum, develop hypertrophy after ganglionectomy. No changes either in number or size are found in the ganglia and neurons of the myenteric plexus. From these and the recently described increase in villus height and absorptive cells and absorptive cell enzymes after ganglionectomy (Holle, G.E. et al. Effects of superior mesenteric and coeliac ganglionectomy on the mucosa of the small intestine in the Hanford mini pig. I. Histological and enzymhistochemical study, J. Auton. Nerv. Syst., 26 (1988) 135-145), we conclude that the extrinsic nervous system takes suppressive influence on structure and probably function of the small intestinal mucosa by modifying its cellular organization.

Novel autonomic neurotransmitters and intestinal function

A wide variety of substances, including amines and peptides, have been detected within the complex neuronal pathways of the enteric nervous system using immunohistochemical techniques. In this article we have discussed some of the more recent data on the effects of these substances on intestinal activity. We have also commented on the many difficulties associated with ascribing neurotransmitter status to individual compounds. The technique of immunoblockade of neurogenic functional responses has been used in an attempt to identify some of the putative neurotransmitter substances. The search for selective antagonists continues.

Distribution pattern of cell bodies and fibers with neurotensin-like immunoreactivity in the cat hypothalamus

Neurotensin is widely distributed in the central and peripheral nervous systems. Extensive radioimmunoassay and immunohistochemical studies in rats show that the neurotensin immunoreactive perikarya and fibers are most prominent in the hypothalamus. Radioimmunoassay studies have suggested that the levels of neurotensin in the hypothalamus of cats may be six times higher than that of rats. We studied the distribution pattern of neurotensin immunoreactivity within the hypothalamus of the cat by avidin-biotin modification immunohistochemical methods: (1) to define its distribution pattern within the hypothalamus, and (2) to compare our findings with the patterns that have been described in rats. Results show that neurotensin immunoreactive cell bodies and fibers are most prominent in the rostral and intermediate regions of the cat hypothalamus. Cell bodies with neurotensin-like immunoreactivity are seen maximally in the medial preoptic region, the infundibular nucleus, and the lateral hypothalamus. The neurotensin positive fibers are dense in the periventricular regions of the entire rostro-caudal extent of the hypothalamus. This pattern of distribution of neurotensin immunoreactivity is similar to that described in rats. The suprachiasmatic nuclei of the cat hypothalamus, however, contained a significant number of neurotensin immunoreactive cell bodies, an observation not noted in the rat hypothalamus. The neurotensin immunoreactive neurons were more numerous in the lateral hypothalamus than has been reported in rats, but the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus in cats contained fewer neurotensin immunoreactive perikarya. The presence of neurotensin immunoreactive perikarya in the suprachiasmatic nucleus and the apparent increase in the number of neurotensin immunoreactive neurons in the lateral hypothalamus may account for the increased levels of neurotensin reported in cats. Neurotensin has been speculated to play a role in nociception, thermoregulation, and control of arterial pressure by acting as a hormone or a neurotransmitter. Details of the pattern of colocalization of neurotensin with that of other neuropeptides and neurotransmitters will aid in our understanding of its role in these functions.

Effects of atropine and tetrodotoxin on neurotensin-induced ileal sodium transport in the dog

1. Neurotensin was infused intravenously, in the presence or absence of intravenous atropine or intraarterial tetrodotoxin, into dogs anaesthetized with sodium pentobarbitone. Net and unidirectional fluxes of sodium and blood flows in the ileum were measured. Arterial and mesenteric venous blood pressures, haematocrits and plasma total solids were also determined. 2. Neurotensin caused a transient increase in net sodium absorption which was not associated with significant changes in unidirectional fluxes. This was followed by prolonged net secretion which was associated with an increase in unidirectional sodium secretion and a smaller decrease in sodium absorption. Potassium secretion was also increased when net sodium secretion increased. 3. Neurotensin increased haematocrit and total solids and decreased arterial pressure at the same time that secretion occurred. 4. Atropine blocked all the cardiovascular effects of neurotensin and reduced its early effects on both absorption and secretion but not the later effects on secretion. Tetrodotoxin only blocked the increase in absorption but not the secretion or the cardiovascular effects. 5. It was concluded that there is a cholinergic step in the cardiovascular effects of neurotensin and that the early effects of neurotensin on secretion are due to active secretion supported by fluid leakage from the plasma. The later effects of neurotensin on secretion do not have a cholinergic step and are due primarily to an active secretion. The increased absorption is mediated partly through intrinsic nerves of the gut.

Effects of hemorrhage and opiate antagonists on adrenal release of neuropeptides in cats

Concurrent levels of methionine-enkephalin (ME), neuropeptide Y (NPY), peptide YY (PYY), neurotensin (NT), vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP), cholecystokinin (CCK) and bombesin (BMB) were measured in adrenal vein (AD), femoral vein (FV) and femoral artery (FA) under baseline conditions and during hypotensive hemorrhage (HTH) in halothane anesthetized cats (Group II, n = 6) and compared to a non-bled control group (Group I, n = 6). Five cats (Group III) received an IV bolus of naltrexone (1 mg/kg) followed by a continuous infusion prior to induction of HTH. A blood volume loss of approximately 40% evoked a selective increase in AD levels of ME, NPY, PYY and NT. No differences in regard to hemodynamics and pattern of neuropeptide levels were observed between Group II and Group III. Administration of naloxone (1 mg/kg, IV) in Group I and Group II at the end of the experiment led to a significant increase in MABP in both groups but did not evoke changes in neuropeptide levels. We conclude that adrenal neuropeptide release during hypotensive hemorrhage is not modulated by actions on opiate receptors in the halothane anesthetized cat.

Characterization of neurotensin binding sites in intact and solubilized bovine brain membranes

Analysis of the equilibrium binding of [3H]-neurotensin(1-13) at 25 degrees C to its receptor sites in bovine cortex membranes indicated a single population of sites with an apparent equilibrium dissociation constant (KD) of 3.3 nM and a density (Bmax) of 350 fmol/mg protein (Hill coefficient nH = 0.97). Kinetic dissociation studies revealed the presence of a second class of sites comprising less than 10% of the total. KD values of 0.3 and 2.0 nM were obtained for the higher and lower affinity classes of sites, respectively, from association-dissociation kinetic studies. The binding of [3H]neurotensin was decreased by cations (monovalent and divalent) and by a nonhydrolysable guanine nucleotide analogue. Competition studies gave a potency ranking of [Gln4]neurotensin greater than neurotensin(8-13) greater than neurotensin(1-13). Smaller neurotensin analogues and neurotensin-like peptides were unable to compete with [3H]neurotensin. Stable binding activity for [3H]neurotensin in detergent solution (Kd = 5.5 nM, Bmax = 250 fmol/mg protein, nH = 1.0) was obtained in 2% digitonin/1 mM Mg2+ extracts of membranes which had been preincubated (25 degrees C, 1 h) with 1 mM Mg2+ prior to solubilization. Association-dissociation kinetic studies then revealed the presence of two classes of sites (KD1 = 0.5 nM, KD2 = 3.6 nM) in a similar proportion to that found in the membranes. The solubilized [3H]-neurotensin activity retained its sensitivity to cations and guanine nucleotide.

High affinity binding of [3H]neurotensin of rat uterus

[3H]Neurotensin (NT) was found to bind specifically and with high affinity to crude membranes prepared from rat uterus. Scatchard analysis of saturation binding studies indicated that [3H]NT apparently binds to two sites (high affinity Kd 0.5 nM; low affinity Kd 9 nM) with the density of high affinity sites (41 fmoles/mg prot.) being about one-third that of the low affinity sites (100 fmoles/mg prot.). In competition studies, NT and various fragments inhibited [3H]NT binding with the following potencies (approximately IC50): NT 8-13 (0.4 nM), NT 1-13 (4 nM), NT 9-13 (130 nM), NT 1-11, NT 1-8 (greater than 100 microM). Quantitatively similar results were obtained using brain tissue. These findings raise the possibility of a role for NT in uterine function.

Extraction of neurotensin by the liver

1. Neurotensin is released from the intestine into the portal circulation and to exert a systemic effect it must traverse the liver intact. 2. The role of the liver in neurotensin clearance was examined using the isolated perfused rat liver preparation. Two concentrations of neurotensin were used to determine the extraction capacity of the liver. 3. Approximately 10% of the added neurotensin (with either dose) was extracted in a single pass through the liver. This extraction rate was low when compared to previous studies with cholecystokinin (60% extraction in a single pass) and vasoactive intestinal peptide (100%). 4. It is concluded that there is a small but high capacity for direct extraction of neurotensin. This low direct extraction percentage supports our previous contention that the major influence of the liver on the metabolism of neurotensin is by the release of neurotensin degrading peptidases into the circulation.

Xenopsin- and neurotensin-like peptides in gastric juice from patients with duodenal ulcers

Using an anti-serum directed against the COOH-terminal region of neurotensin and an anti-serum raised xenopsin in radioimmunoassays, the presence of neurotensin- and xenopsin-like immunoreactivity in Sep-pak extracts of human gastric juice was demonstrated. An anti-serum directed against the NH2-terminal to central residues of neurotensin and an anti-serum directed against a conformation, present only in the intact peptide, did not detect immunoreactivity in the juice. Infusions of pentagastrin at doses of 0.75 micrograms kg-1 h-1 and 1.5 micrograms kg-1 h-1 resulted in significant (P less than 0.05) increases in the total amount of xenopsin-like, but not neurotensin-like, immunoreactivity released in the juice compared with basal release. No significant differences in the release of xenopsin- or neurotensin-like immunoreactive were observed between patients with selective proximal vagotomy and patients without operation. Analysis by gel permeation chromatography and high performance liquid chromatography demonstrated that both the neurotensin- and xenopsin-like immunoreactivity was heterogeneous and an increase in molecular complexity on pentagastrin-stimulation was observed. As both neurotensin and xenopsin inhibit gastric exocrine activity, the presence of immunochemically related substances in gastric juice may have physiological relevance.

Neurotensin-like immunoreactivity (NTLI) concentration in the cerebrospinal fluid of children and its alteration in a febrile aseptic meningitis

Neurotensin-like immunoreactivity (NTLI) concentrations in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of normal children and patients with febrile aseptic meningitis, aged 7 months to 15 years, were studied. The NTLI concentrations in CSF of 27 children with normal CSF findings were 160.1 +/- 54.6 pg/ml (mean +/- S.D.). The NTLI concentration in CSF of 26 patients in an acute phase of aseptic meningitis was 110.6 +/- 51.1 pg/ml which was significantly (P less than 0.01) lower than the controls. These patients had a mean temperature of 101.4 +/- 1.5 degrees F which remained elevated for an average of 3.5 days. The NTLI concentrations in CSF of 23 patients in a recovery phase (after blood and CSF findings became normal with no fever) were 166.5 +/- 57.8 pg/ml, which did not differ significantly from the normal. There were no statistical correlations between the NTLI concentration in CSF and the protein concentration or total cell count in CSF. These results suggest that NTLI concentration changes during a febrile aseptic meningitis and that it may be associated with thermoregulation.

Neurotensin in projection neurons of the striatum and nucleus accumbens, with reference to coexistence with enkephalin and GABA: an immunohistochemical study in the cat

Neurotensin-like immunoreactivity (NT-LI) was demonstrated in projection neurons of the striatum and nucleus accumbens in the cat by combining immunohistochemistry and the fluorescent retrograde neuronal labeling method. In colchicine-treated cats, many neurons with NT-LI were found in the caudate nucleus, nucleus accumbens, and putamen. Most of these neurons were medium-sized neurons with spiny dendrites. NT-LI of neuronal elements in the caudate nucleus and nucleus accumbens formed dense aggregates with irregular figures, which appeared to correspond to the striosomes of Graybiel et al. (Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 75:5723-5726, '78; Exp. Brain Res. 34:189-195, '79; Neuroscience 6:377-397, '81). Fibers with NT-LI were distributed massively to the globus pallidus and ventral midbrain regions, but not to the entopeduncular nucleus. In the ventral midbrain regions, many fine varicose fibers with NT-LI were distributed to the pars compacta and pars lateralis of the substantia nigra, ventral tegmental area, and retrorubral area. In the pars reticulata of the substantia nigra, however, fibers with NT-LI were rather sparse. Examination of consecutive sections immunostained for NT, enkephalin (Enk), GABA, and substance P (SP) revealed that 50% of neurons with NT-LI in the caudate nucleus and nucleus accumbens exhibited Enk-LI, 15% showed GABA-LI, and 5% manifested both Enk-LI and GABA-LI; no NT-positive neurons in the striatum and nucleus accumbens showed SP-LI. No morphological differences were found between NT-positive neurons with Enk-LI and/or GABA-LI and those without Enk-LI and GABA-LI. Most neurons with NT-LI in the striatum and nucleus accumbens were retrogradely labeled with True Blue injected into the globus pallidus, pars compacta and pars lateralis of the substantia nigra, and ventral tegmental area. After hemitransection severing neuronal connections between the ventral midbrain regions and the forebrain structures, fibers with NT-LI and those with Enk-LI in the ventral midbrain regions were markedly reduced in number.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)

Effects of neurotensin on electrical and mechanical properties of smooth muscles in longitudinal and circular layers of the guinea-pig ileum

Effects of neurotensin (NT) on the electrical and mechanical activities of longitudinal and circular muscles of the guinea-pig ileum were investigated using the microelectrode and isometric tension recording methods. In longitudinal muscles, the resting membrane potential was not affected by NT (0.1-30 nmol/l), but NT did provoke the contraction when applied in concentrations over 1 nmol/l. TTX (0.1 mumol/l) neither modified the resting membrane potential nor the contraction evoked by NT, under condition of pretreatment with alpha- and beta-adrenoceptor blockers. In circular muscles, NT (over 0.1 nmol/l) consistently hyperpolarized the membrane and increased the ionic conductance. The hyperpolarization appeared with a transient hyperpolarization, which gradually declined with a long time course. Using apamin and various concentrations of Ca, the NT-induced hyperpolarization was classified into two subtypes; fast and slow. The former was composed of maximum hyperpolarization due to activations of the Ca independent K channel, and the latter was composed of late hyperpolarization, due to activations of the Ca dependent K channel. During the NT-induced hyperpolarization in circular muscles, the amplitude of non-adrenergic, non-cholinergic inhibitory junction potential (i.j.p.) evoked by field stimulation was reduced. This reduction induced by 0.5 nmol/l NT was mainly due to hyperpolarization of the membrane, and that observed in a high concentration of NT (3 nmol/l) was directly involved in ionic mechanisms contributing to the generation of i.j.p. In circular muscles, NT (over 3 nmol/l) did relax the tissue pre-contracted with 17.8 mmol/l K, but NT (below 30 nmol/l) did not relax the tissue pre-contracted by 39.6 mmol/l K.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Immunohistochemical demonstration of neurotensin in striatal neurons of the cat, with particular reference to coexistence with enkephalin

Neurotensin-like immunoreactivity (NT-LI) was visualized in medium-sized, spiny neurons of the caudate nucleus (Cd) and putamen (Put) in colchicine-treated cats by the indirect immunoperoxidase method. In serial sections alternately immunostained for NT and enkephalin (Enk), coexistence of NT-LI and Enk-LI was revealed in about 50% of NT-neurons and about 50% of Enk-neurons in Cd and Put.

Assignment and conformation of neurotensin in aqueous solution by 1H NMR

A complete assignment of exchangeable and unexchangeable proton resonances of neurotensin 1-13 in aqueous solution has been carried out with the help of its 1-8 and 8-13 fragments. To detect formation of a secondary structure, the effects of peptide fragmentation, temperature decrease, pH changes and addition of denaturing agents on the neurotensin 1H NMR spectrum were investigated. The small changes observed in all cases support the conclusion that neurotensin exists mainly as a flexible random coiled polypeptidic chain in aqueous solution in agreement with previous CD studies.

Neurotensin immunoreactivity in the human cingulate gyrus, hippocampal subiculum and mammillary bodies. Its potential role in memory processing

Neurotensin immunoreactive neurons comprise the majority of large perikarya in the human subiculum and project axons to the alveus, fimbria, fornix and neuropil of the mammillary bodies. These regions are prominently involved in conditions such as Wernicke's and Alzheimer's disease in which memory is impaired. Neurotensin has potential significance as a peptide in a human brain circuit which may serve a role in memory processing.

The amino acid sequence of kinetensin, a novel peptide isolated from pepsin-treated human plasma: homology with human serum albumin, neurotensin and angiotensin

A novel nonapeptide with neurotensin-like immunoreactivity was isolated from pepsin-treated human plasma by dialysis, ion-exchange chromatography and high performance reversed-phase liquid chromatography. The amino acid sequence was determined by automated gas-phase sequence analysis as Ile-Ala-Arg-Arg-His-Pro-Tyr-Phe-Leu. Sequence homology with human serum albumin and with the biologically active peptides neurotensin and angiotensin is demonstrated. The name proposed for this peptide is kinetensin.

Neurotensin in diabetes and obesity

Basal and postprandial concentrations of immunoreactive neurotensin were measured in insulin dependent diabetic patients and lean and obese noninsulin dependent diabetic patients when partially withdrawn from subcutaneous (s.c.) insulin treatment and again when near normoglycemia had been achieved from insulin infusion by an artificial endocrine pancreas (AEP). Neither basal nor postprandial neurotensin differed among the 3 groups of diabetic patients during s.c. insulin treatment nor from weight matched nondiabetic subjects. In addition, AEP resulted in no significant change in postprandial neurotensin responses. No differences in neurotensin levels were observed between lean and obese nondiabetic subjects. In contrast to observations in experimental diabetes, these observations do not support the presence of an abnormality of neurotensin in human diabetes.

Catabolism of substance P and neurotensin in the rat stomach wall is susceptible to inhibitors of angiotensin converting enzyme

The purpose of this investigation was to examine the pathway of substance P (SP) and neurotensin (NT) catabolism in the gastric wall of the rat and identify some of the enzymes involved. Under anaesthesia an infusion catheter and a bundle of dialysis fibres were implanted into the stomach wall of the rat. Experiments commenced on conscious rats 2 days after surgery. In control experiments [3H]-SP(Pro-2,4) or [3H]-NT(Tyr-3,11) were injected into gastric tissues through the catheter and catabolites were collected in the dialysis fibres and separated by high pressure liquid chromatography. In other studies captopril, MK422 (inhibitors of angiotensin converting enzyme) or phosphoramidon (an inhibitor of endopeptidase-24.11, 'enkephalinase') were injected into gastric tissues before the peptide label. SP1-11 was degraded to mainly SP1-2, SP3-4 with some SP1-6, SP1-7 and SP1-8. Catabolism was partially but significantly (5% level) inhibited by MK422 and captopril, but not by phosphoramidon. NT1-13 was degraded to NT1-8, NT9-13, NT1-11 and NT1-12. NT catabolism was partially but significantly (5% level) inhibited by MK422. It is concluded that an enzyme resembling angiotensin converting enzyme is involved in the initial stages of SP and NT catabolism in the rat stomach. The involvement of other peptidases cannot be excluded because inhibition of breakdown was not complete.

The inhibitory effect of neurotensin on the motor activity of rabbit ileum: dependence on the ionic environment

The possible ionic mechanisms underlying the inhibitory effect of neurotensin on the spontaneous phasic contractions of the longitudinal muscle of the isolated rabbit ileum were studied by varying the ionic environment. Neurotensin (0.06-60 nM) reduced and abolished the phasic contractions in a concentration-dependent manner. The effect of neurotensin was transient, and the phasic contractions began to recover after 1-3 min although neurotensin was not washed out. The response to neurotensin was very sensitive to alterations in the ionic composition of the bath medium. The changes in the effect of neurotensin brought about by changes in [Na+], [K+], [Ca2+], and [Cl-] suggest that neurotensin hyperpolarizes the smooth muscle. In addition, the effect of combined changes in [Ca2+] and [Cl-] points to a specific role of these ions in the action of neurotensin.

Gastrointestinal neurotensin receptors: lack of modulation by thyrotropin releasing hormone

To examine whether thyrotropin releasing hormone (TRH) antagonized gastrointestinal neurotensin receptors in isolated segments of the rat fundus, duodenum and ileum, tissues were superfused, mounted and the isometric tension recorded. Picomoles of neurotensin caused concentration-dependent contractions of the fundus and relaxation of the smooth muscles of the small intestine. Preincubation with 1-10 microM TRH failed to antagonize the activity of neurotensin but potentiated neurotensin-induced relaxation of the ileum. Pretreatment of the tissues with 0.6 microM of neuropeptide fragment 1-11, also failed to block the neurotensin-induced effects but produced a significant potentiation of the relaxant action of neurotensin.

Excitatory neurotensin receptors on the smooth muscle of the rat fundus: possible implications in gastric motility

Picomolar concentrations of neurotensin caused concentration-dependent contractions of the longitudinal musculature of the fundus of the rat stomach. The EC50 of neurotensin was approximately 1.5 nM. On a molar basis neurotensin was about 5-10 times more potent than 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) and approximately 80 times as active as acetylcholine in producing similar contractions. Studies with structurally related peptides indicated that whereas the carboxy terminal portion of neurotensin was essential for biological activity, a substantial part of its amino terminus end could be removed without affecting its potency. The EC50 for the neurotensin fragment 8-13 was identical to that of neurotensin, however its 1-8 or 1-11 fragments were completely inactive. Tetrodotoxin did not modify the potency of neurotensin or structurally related analogues suggesting that the neurotensin receptor is probably located on the smooth muscle membrane. In addition, the potency of neurotensin in contracting the fundus was not modified by pretreatment with atropine, methysergide or diphenhydramine. Fade to the contractile response of neurotensin was followed by the development of tachyphylaxis; desensitization was concentration-dependent and characterized by a shift in the agonist concentration-response curve to the right and downwards. Desensitization with a priming concentration of neurotensin (approx. EC50) caused a substantial blockade of its excitability. There was cross-desensitization between neurotensin and the contractile activity of neurotensin 8-13 or xenopsin, but not with angiotensin II, bradykinin, substance P, acetylcholine, 5-HT or histamine. Pretreatment of the fundus strip with verapamil 0.3-1 microM antagonized in a concentration-dependent fashion the neurotensin-induced contractions but not the muscular contractions caused by acetylcholine. It is concluded that neurotensin activates a specific excitatory receptor probably located on the cell membrane of the smooth muscles of the rat fundus. In addition, we suggest that this receptor is somehow related to a voltage-dependent calcium channel, sensitive to verapamil.

Effects of neurotensin on the isolated mouse distal colon

The effects of neurotensin were studied in the isolated mouse distal colon. This peptide had potent stimulatory effects which were of pre- or postjunctional origin according to the concentrations used. At low concentrations (10(-11)-10(-10) M) neurotensin induced neurogenic non-cholinergic contractions which seemed to result from the release of substance P (or substance P-like activity) by enteric excitatory nerves. At higher concentrations (10(-9)-10(-7) M) neurotensin elicited a biphasic effect consisting of transient relaxation rapidly followed by myogenic contraction. The bee venom toxin apamin inhibited the NT-induced relaxation while inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis by indomethacin abolished the contraction phase. All these responses were tightly related to the extracellular Ca2+ concentration. These properties of neurotensin point to a possible role for this peptide as a modulator of colonic motility.

Neurotensin in human small cell lung carcinoma

High levels of neurotensin-like immunoreactivity were found in human small cell lung carcinoma lines. No immunoreactivity was present in non-small cell carcinoma lines and only low amounts in postmortem human lung tissue. The immunoreactive material co-eluted with synthetic neurotensin on two different chromatographic systems. No evidence was obtained for the presence of specific neurotensin binding sites in any of the small cell carcinoma lines examined. The results suggest that small lung cell carcinoma lines may be useful for studying the biosynthesis of human neurotensin.

Ion-exchange, gel-filtration and reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography in the isolation of neurotensin-degrading enzymes from rat brain

Brain and pituitary peptidases involved in the metabolism of neurotensin were identified by ion-exchange (TSK-545 DEAE) and gel-filtration (TSK-G4000 SW) high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Reversed-phase HPLC on radial compression cartridges was used in a rapid assay of neurotensin-hydrolysing activity in column fractions and at the same time the bond specificity of the activity was determined. Semipreparative isolation of the major enzyme which cleaves neurotensin at Arg8-Arg9 was carried out and some of its characteristics were determined.

Neurotensin stimulates histamine release from the isolated, spontaneously beating heart of rats

Neurotensin (NT) evoked a transient, dose-dependent histamine release (ED50 170 ng ml-1) from the rat perfused heart. Histamine release by NT occurred within seconds and lasted less than 2 min. The histamine releasing effect of NT was followed by a dose-dependent increase of the perfusion pressure and a slight tachycardia. The histamine releasing effect of NT was completely abolished in hearts derived from rats pretreated for 3 days with high doses of compound 48/80. The coronary vasoconstrictor effect of NT was increased in hearts derived from compound 48/80-pretreated rats. The mast cell inhibitor cromoglycate markedly inhibited NT-induced histamine release without affecting the coronary vasoconstrictor effect of NT. The histamine releasing effect of NT was inhibited, while its coronary vasoconstrictor effect was markedly potentiated, in hearts derived from rats pretreated with the antiallergic and antiinflammatory steroid dexamethasone. The increase of perfusion pressure evoked by NT was not modified by antihistamine drugs. Infusions of exogenous histamine (10(-6)-10(-5) g ml-1) caused a dose-dependent coronary vasodilation in the rat perfused heart. The results suggest that NT stimulates histamine release from cardiac mast cells. These results together with those obtained in previous studies suggest that mast cell mediators (particularly histamine and serotonin) are unlikely to be responsible for the coronary vasoconstrictor effect of NT in the rat perfused heart.

A comparative study of neurotensin inactivation by brain peptidases from different vertebrate species

The products formed from mammalian neurotensin by peptidases in two subcellular fractions from rat, mouse, dove, terrapin and goldfish brain were separated and identified using high-performance liquid chromatography. The main neurotensin metabolites were [1-8]-, [1-10]- and [1-7]-sequences; goldfish and terrapin brain fractions also produced [1-11]- and [1-12]-fragments. Avian neurotensin was cleaved by peptidases in rat and dove brain fractions to [1-8]-, [9-13]-, [1-10]- and [1-12]-fragments. Similar mechanisms of inactivation were found for both mammalian and avian neurotensins .

Pharmacological characterization of the inhibitory effects of neurotensin on the rabbit ileum myenteric plexus preparation

Neurotensin in picomolar concentrations caused a concentration-related inhibition of the spontaneous contractile activity of the longitudinal muscle from the rabbit isolated ileum. Neurotensin was approximately 100 times more potent than adrenaline and about 10000 times as active as adenosine triphosphate (ATP) in producing similar relaxations. The neurotensin-induced inhibitory effect did not follow activation of adrenoceptors or P1-purinoceptors since the effect of the neuropeptide was not antagonized by a combination of phentolamine plus (-)-propranolol, nor by pretreatment with theophylline. Tetrodotoxin did not reduce the potency of neurotensin in relaxing the rabbit ileum, suggesting that the neurotensin-induced inhibition is not neuronally mediated. The inhibitory responses of neurotensin were blocked non-competitively by apamin. The inhibitory effect of neurotensin was short-lived with the subsequent development of tachyphylaxis, which was not crossed to the inhibitory action of adrenaline or ATP. Similarly, when tachyphylaxis to adrenaline or to ATP was established, the inhibitory action of neurotensin was unaffected. Desensitization was characterized by a gradual shift of the neuropeptide concentration-response curve to the right and downwards. Preincubation of rabbit ileum strips with 10 nM dynorphin (1-13) significantly increased the inhibitory action of neurotensin.