Overview. Purinergic mechanisms

Nitrergic-purinergic interactions in rat distal colon motility

Responses of rat distal colon circular muscle strips to exogenous nitric oxide (NO) and adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP) and to electrical field stimulation (EFS) were assessed in the absence/presence of various agents that interfere with nitrergic-purinergic pathways. Exogenous NO (10-6 to 10-4 mol L-1) elicited concentration-dependent, tetrodotoxin (TTX)-insensitive relaxations. The soluble guanylyl-cyclase (sGC) inhibitor 1H[1,2,4,]oxadiazolo[4,3-a]quinoxalin-1-one (ODQ) reduced duration and amplitude; the small conductance Ca2+-sensitive K+ (SK)-channel blocker apamin (APA) only shortened the relaxations. ODQ + APA showed a marked inhibitory effect on duration and amplitude. TTX, APA, the NO-synthase inhibitor N(omega)-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester (l-NAME) and the purinergic receptor P2Y antagonist Reactive Blue 2 (RB2) shortened the relaxations by exogenous ATP (10-3 mol L-1) but did not influence the amplitude. ODQ had no effect. TTX + l-NAME did not yield a more pronounced inhibitory effect than TTX alone. The effect of ATP-gamma-S was similar to that of ATP. Electrical field stimulation (EFS) (40 V, 0.05 ms, 0.5-4 Hz for 30 s) yielded TTX-sensitive relaxations that were not altered by l-NAME, ODQ or RB2. APA shortened the relaxations. l-NAME + APA nearly abolished these relaxations. ODQ + APA and RB2 +l-NAME reduced the duration. These results suggest that distinct sets of small conductance SK-channels are involved in the amplitude and the duration of the relaxations and that NO increases their sensitivity to NO and ATP via guanosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate (cGMP). ATP elicits relaxations via P2Y receptors with subsequent activation of SK-channels and induces neuronal release of NO. Both nitrergic and purinergic pathways must be blocked to inhibit EFS-induced relaxations.

ATP causes glomus cell [Ca2+]c increase without corresponding increases in CSN activity

The hypothesis that an increase in intracellular calcium [Ca(2+)](c) in carotid body (CB) glomus cells will cause enhanced afferent carotid sinus nerve (CSN) activities was tested in the rat CB in-vitro with the use of extracellular ATP. ATP caused a dose dependent [Ca(2+)](c) increase in identified glomus cells. A major part of total [Ca(2+)](c) increase (2/3) was due to the [Ca(2+)] influx. The rest of [Ca(2+)](c) increase (1/3) was due to the release of [Ca(2+)] from the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) [Ca(2+)] stores, and it was inhibited by the pretreatment of cells with cyclopiazonic acid (CPA), an intracellular Ca(2+)-ATPase blocker. Suramin, a purinergic P(2) receptor membrane blocker, blocked [Ca(2+)] influx due to ATP in the presence of extracellular [Ca(2+)]. Perfusion with 5 and 10 microM ATP stimulated CSN activities in both normoxia (Nx) and hypoxia (Hx). Above that level, 100 microM ATP induced slight initial stimulation in CSN activities which were subsided subsequently in Nx and partly diminished in Hx, while 500 microM ATP completely inhibited CSN activities in Nx and Hx after a slight initial stimulation. Electrophysiological measurements of the glomus cell membrane potential in the presence of ATP (100 microM) during Nx indicated cellular enhanced outward K(+) current and hyperpolarization, suggesting potential mechanism for the inhibition of CSN activities. Thus, ATP dependent linear increases in [Ca(2+)](c) did not give rise to a corresponding increase in CSN activities, contravening the normally expected increase in CSN activities following [Ca(2+)](c) rise.

Involvement of CD73 (ecto-5'-nucleotidase) in adenosine generation by human gingival fibroblasts

Adenosine has various biological effects on human gingival fibroblasts (HGF) and epithelial cells closely associated with inflammation, such as cytokine production and cell adhesion. However, the mechanism of adenosine formation in periodontal tissues is not yet defined. In this study, we examined the involvement of CD73 (ecto-5'-nucleotidase) in adenosine generation by HGF. CD73 was detected on in vitro-maintained HGF by immunocytochemistry and flow cytometric analysis. Adenosine production was observed following the addition of 5'-AMP, the substrate of CD73-associated ecto-5'-nucleotidase. Moreover, the addition of 5'-AMP to cultured HGF resulted in the elevation of cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP). The 5'-AMP-induced increase in intracellular cAMP level was inhibited markedly by xanthine amine congener, an adenosine receptor antagonist, and partially by alpha,beta-methylene adenosine 5'-diphosphate, an ecto-5'-nucleotidase inhibitor. These results suggest that CD73 on HGF is a critical enzyme responsible for the generation of adenosine, an immunomodulator that activates adenosine receptors.

NANC inhibitory neurotransmission in mouse isolated stomach: involvement of nitric oxide, ATP and vasoactive intestinal polypeptide

1. The neurotransmitters involved in NANC relaxation and their possible interactions were investigated in mouse isolated stomach, recording the motor responses as changes of endoluminal pressure from whole organ. 2. Field stimulation produced tetrodotoxin-sensitive, frequency-dependent, biphasic responses: rapid transient relaxation followed by a delayed inhibitory component. 3. The inhibitor of the synthesis of nitric oxide (NO), l-NAME, abolished the rapid relaxation and significantly reduced the slow relaxation. Apamin, blocker of Ca2+-dependent K+ channels, or ADPbetaS, which desensitises P2y purinoceptors, reduced the slow relaxation to 2-8 Hz, without affecting that to 16-32 Hz or the fast relaxation. alpha-Chymotrypsin or vasoactive intestinal polypeptide 6-28 (VIP6-28), antagonist of VIP receptors, failed to affect the fast component or the delayed relaxation to 2-4 Hz, but antagonised the slow component to 8-32 Hz. 4. Relaxation to sodium nitroprusside was not affected by l-NAME, apamin or ADPbetaS, but was reduced by alpha-chymotrypsin or VIP6-28. Relaxation to VIP was abolished by alpha-chymotrypsin, antagonised by VIP6-28, but was not affected by l-NAME, apamin or ADPbetaS. Relaxation to ATP was abolished by apamin, antagonised by ADPbetaS, but was not affected by l-NAME or alpha-chymotrypsin. 5. The present results suggest that NO is responsible for the rapid relaxation and partly for the slow relaxation. ATP is involved in the slow relaxation evoked by low frequencies of stimulation. VIP is responsible for the slow relaxation evoked by high frequencies of stimulation. The different neurotransmitters appear to work in parallel, although NO could serve also as a neuromodulator that facilitates release of VIP.

Caffeine-mediated presynaptic long-term potentiation in hippocampal CA1 pyramidal neurons

We report a new form of long-term potentiation (LTP) in Schaffer collateral (SC)-CA1 pyramidal neuron synapses that originates presynaptically and does not require N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptor activation nor increases in postsynaptic-free Ca2+. Using rat hippocampal slices, application of a brief "pulse" of caffeine in the bath evoked a nondecremental LTP (CAFLTP) of SC excitatory postsynaptic currents. An increased probability of transmitter release paralleled the CAFLTP, suggesting that it originated presynaptically. The P1 adenosine receptor antagonist 8-cyclopentyltheophylline and the P2 purinoreceptor antagonists suramin and piridoxal-5'-phosphate-azophenyl 2',4'-disulphonate blocked the CAFLTP. Inhibition of Ca2+ release from caffeine/ryanodine stores by bath-applied ryanodine inhibited the CAFLTP, but ryanodine in the pipette solution was ineffective, suggesting a presynaptic effect of ryanodine. Previous induction of the "classical" LTP did not prevent the CAFLTP, suggesting that the LTP and the CAFLTP have different underlying cellular mechanisms. The CAFLTP is insensitive to the block of NMDA receptors by 2-amino-5-phosphonopentanoic acid and to Ca2+ chelation with intracellular 1,2-bis (2-aminophenoxy) ethane-N,N,N',N'-tetraacetic acid, indicating that neither postsynaptic NMDA receptors nor increases in cytosolic-free Ca2+ participate in the CAFLTP. We conclude that the CAFLTP requires the interaction of caffeine with presynaptic P1, P2 purinoreceptors, and ryanodine receptors and is caused by an increased probability of glutamate release at SC terminals.

Extracellular ATP-induced calcium channel inhibition mediated by P1/P2Y purinoceptors in hamster submandibular ganglion neurons

1. The presence and profile of purinoceptors in neurons of the hamster submandibular ganglion (SMG) have been studied using the whole-cell configuration of the patch-clamp technique. 2. Extracellular application of adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP) reversibly inhibited voltage-dependent Ca(2+) channel (VDCC) currents (I(Ca)) via G(i/o)-protein in a voltage-dependent manner. 3. Extracellular application of uridine 5'-triphosphate (UTP), 2-methylthioATP (2-MeSATP), alpha,beta-methylene ATP (alpha,beta-MeATP) and adenosine 5'-diphosphate (ADP) also inhibited I(Ca). The rank order of potency was ATP=UTP>ADP>2-MeSATP=alpha,beta-MeATP. 4. The P2 purinoceptor antagonists, suramin and pyridoxal-5-phosphate-6-azophenyl-2', 4'-disulfonic acid (PPADS), partially antagonized the ATP-induced inhibition of I(Ca), while coapplication of suramin and the P1 purinoceptor antagonist, 8-cyclopentyl-1,3-dipropylxanthine (DPCPX), virtually abolished I(Ca) inhibition. DPCPX alone partially antagonized I(Ca) inhibition. 5. Suramin antagonized the UTP-induced inhibition of I(Ca), while DPCPX had no effect. 6. Extracellular application of adenosine (ADO) also inhibited I(Ca) in a voltage-dependent manner via G(i/o)-protein activation. 7. Mainly N- and P/Q-type VDCCs were inhibited by both ATP and ADO via G(i/o)-protein betagamma subunits in seemingly convergence pathways.

Adenosine triphosphate activates mitogen-activated protein kinase in pre-neoplastic and neoplastic ovarian surface epithelial cells

To investigate the role of ATP in ovarian tumorigenesis, the present study examined the expression of the P2U purinoceptor (P2U-R) and effect of ATP on growth stimulation in pre-neoplastic and neoplastic ovarian surface epithelial (OSE) cells. The immortalized OSE (IOSE) cell lines, including IOSE-29 (pre-neoplastic), IOSE-29EC (neoplastic), and OVCAR-3 (ovarian adenocarcinoma cell line) were used. Our results indicated that P2U-R mRNA was expressed and that ATP exerted a growth-stimulatory effect in IOSE-29, IOSE-29EC, and OVCAR-3. To investigate the mechanism of the growth-stimulatory effect, the activation of mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) by ATP was examined. Treatment with ATP resulted in MAPK activation in IOSE-29 and IOSE-29EC cells, whereas the stimulatory effect of ATP in cellular proliferation and MAPK activation was completely abolished in the presence of PD98059 (an MAPK/ERK kinase inhibitor) and staurosporin (a protein kinase C inhibitor), suggesting that the growth stimulatory effect of ATP is mediated via protein kinase C-dependent MAPK activation in pre-neoplastic and neoplastic OSE cells. In a time-dependent study, ATP significantly increased MAPK activity at 5-20 min in IOSE-29 cells. Activated MAPK declined to control levels after 20 min in these cells. Treatment with ATP significantly induced MAPK activation after 5 min and was sustained for 60 min in IOSE-29EC cells. In addition, treatment with ATP resulted in substantial phosphorylation of Elk-1, the Ets family transcriptional factor, confirming that ATP action is mediated by activation of MAPK. In conclusion, we have demonstrated that P2U-R was expressed and that ATP induced growth stimulation in IOSE and OVCAR-3 cells. Furthermore, treatment with ATP resulted in the activation of an MAPK cascade and phosphorylation of Elk-1 in IOSE-29 and IOSE-29EC cells. These results suggest that the MAPK cascade may be involved in growth stimulation in response to ATP in pre-neoplastic and neoplastic OSE cells.

Modulatory effect of adenosine receptors on the ascending and descending neural reflex responses of rat ileum

BACKGROUND

Adenosine is known to act as a neuromodulator by suppressing synaptic transmission in the central and peripheral nervous system. Both the release of adenosine within the small intestine and the presence of adenosine receptors on enteric neurons have been demonstrated. The aim of the present study was to characterize a possible involvement of adenosine receptors in the modulation of the myenteric reflex. The experiments were carried out on ileum segments 10 cm in length incubated in an single chambered organ bath, and the reflex response was initiated by electrical stimulation (ES).

RESULTS

ES caused an ascending contraction and a descending relaxation followed by a contraction. All motility responses to ES were completely blocked by tetrodotoxin, indicating that they are mediated by neural mechanisms. Atropine blocked the contractile effects, whereas the descending relaxation was significantly increased. The A1 receptor agonist N6-cyclopentyladenosine increased the ascending contraction, whereas the ascending contraction was reduced by the A1 receptor antagonist 8-cyclopentyl-1,3-dipropylxanthine. Activation of the A1 receptor further reduced the descending relaxation and the latency of the peristaltic reflex. The A2B receptor antagonist alloxazine increased ascending contraction, whereas descending relaxation remained unchanged. For A2A and A3 receptors, we found contradictory effects of the agonists and antagonists, thus there is no clear physiological role for these receptors at this time.

CONCLUSIONS

This study suggests that the myenteric ascending and descending reflex response of the rat small intestine is modulated by release of endogenous adenosine via A1 receptors.

Heteromultimerization modulates P2X receptor functions through participating extracellular and C-terminal subdomains

P2X purinergic receptors (P2XRs) differ among themselves with respect to their ligand preferences and channel kinetics during activation, desensitization, and recovery. However, the contributions of distinct receptor subdomains to the subtype-specific behavior have been incompletely characterized. Here we show that homomeric receptors having the extracellular domain of the P2X(3) subunit in the P2X(2a)-based backbone (P2X(2a)/X(3)ex) mimicked two intrinsic functions of P2X(3)R, sensitivity to alphabeta-methylene ATP and ecto-ATPase-dependent recovery from endogenous desensitization; these two functions were localized to the N- and C-terminal halves of the P2X(3) extracellular loop, respectively. The chimeric P2X(2a)R/X(3)ex receptors also desensitized with accelerated rates compared with native P2X(2a)R, and the introduction of P2X(2) C-terminal splicing into the chimeric subunit (P2X(2b)/X(3)ex) further increased the rate of desensitization. Physical and functional heteromerization of native P2X(2a) and P2X(2b) subunits was also demonstrated. In heteromeric receptors, the ectodomain of P2X(3) was a structural determinant for ligand selectivity and recovery from desensitization, and the C terminus of P2X(2) was an important factor for the desensitization rate. Furthermore, [gamma-(32)P]8-azido ATP, a photoreactive agonist, was effectively cross-linked to P2X(3) subunit in homomeric receptors but not in heteromeric P2X(2) + P2X(3)Rs. These results indicate that heteromeric receptors formed by distinct P2XR subunits develop new functions resulting from integrative effects of the participating extracellular and C-terminal subdomains.

ATP stimulates chemically sensitive and sensitizes mechanically sensitive afferents

We examined whether ATP stimulation of P2X purinoceptors would raise blood pressure in decerebrate cats. Femoral arterial injection of the P2X receptor agonist alpha,beta-methylene ATP into the blood supply of the triceps surae muscle induced a dose-dependent increase in arterial blood pressure. The maximal increase in mean arterial pressure (MAP) evoked by 0.1, 0.2, and 0.5 mM alpha,beta-methylene ATP (0.5 ml/min injection rate) was 6.2 +/- 2.5, 22.5 +/- 4.4, and 35.2 +/- 3.9 mmHg, respectively. The P2X receptor antagonist pyridoxal phosphate-6-azophenyl-2',4'-disulfonic acid (2 mM ia) attenuated the increase in MAP elicited by intra-arterial alpha,beta-methylene ATP (0.5 mM), whereas the P2Y receptor antagonist reactive blue 2 (2 mM ia) did not affect the MAP response to alpha,beta-methylene ATP. In a second group of experiments, we tested the hypothesis that ATP acting through P2X receptors would sensitize muscle afferents and, thereby, augment the blood pressure response to muscle stretch. Two kilograms of muscle stretch evoked a 26.5 +/- 4.3 mmHg increase in MAP. This MAP response was enhanced when 2 mM ATP or 0.1 mM alpha,beta-methylene ATP (0.5 ml/min) was arterially infused 10 min before muscle stretch. Furthermore, this effect of ATP on the pressor response to stretch was attenuated by 2 mM pyridoxal phosphate-6-azophenyl-2',4'-disulfonic acid (P < 0.05) but not by the P1 purinoceptor antagonist 8-(p-sulfophenyl)-theophylline (2 mM). These data indicate that activation of ATP-sensitive P2X receptors evokes a skeletal muscle afferent-mediated pressor response and that ATP at relatively low doses enhances the muscle pressor response to stretch via engagement of P2X receptors.

Antinociceptive effect of a new P(2Z)/P2X7 antagonist, oxidized ATP, in arthritic rats

The neurotransmitter adenosine triphosphate (ATP) is released from sensory nerve endings during inflammation and acts at the level of P2X receptors. We used the irreversible inhibitor of P2z/P2X7 receptor, designated oxidized ATP (oATP), to test its possible antinociceptive activity in arthritic rats. We induced unilateral inflammation of the rat hind paw by local injection of Freund's complete adjuvant. Administration of the adjuvant resulted in a significant reduction of paw pressure threshold (PPT). Injection of oATP into inflamed paws significantly increased, in a dose-dependent manner, PPT values to levels comparable with or higher than those evaluated in control uninflamed paws. The data indicate that the P2z/P2X7 receptor system exerts a role in nociception and that oATP, by inhibiting such a receptor, reduces the nociceptive signal in the course of peripheral inflammation.

P2Y(1) and P2Y(2) receptors are coupled to the NO/cGMP pathway to vasodilate the rat arterial mesenteric bed

1. To assess the role of nucleotide receptors in endothelial-smooth muscle signalling, changes in perfusion pressure of the rat arterial mesenteric bed, the luminal output of nitric oxide (NO) and guanosine 3',5' cyclic monophosphate (cGMP) accumulation were measured after the perfusion of nucleotides. 2. The rank order of potency of ATP and analogues in causing relaxation of precontracted mesenteries was: 2-MeSADP=2-MeSATP>ADP>ATP=UDP=UTP>adenosine. The vasodilatation was coupled to a concentration-dependent rise in NO and cGMP production. MRS 2179 selectively blocked the 2-MeSATP-induced vasodilatation, the NO surge and the cGMP accumulation, but not the UTP or ATP vasorelaxation. 3. mRNA encoding for P2Y(1), P2Y(2) and P2Y(6) receptors, but not the P2Y(4) receptor, was detected in intact mesenteries by RT-PCR. After endothelium removal, only P2Y(6) mRNA was found. 4. Endothelium removal or blockade of NO synthase obliterated the nucleotides-induced dilatation, the NO rise and cGMP accumulation. Furthermore, 2-MeSATP, ATP, UTP and UDP contracted endothelium-denuded mesenteries, revealing additional muscular P2Y and P2X receptors. 5. Blockade of soluble guanylyl cyclase reduced the 2-MeSATP and UTP-induced vasodilatation and the accumulation of cGMP without interfering with NO production. 6. Blockade of phosphodiesterases with IBMX increased 15-20 fold the 2-MeSATP and UTP-induced rise in cGMP; sildenafil only doubled the cGMP accumulation. A linear correlation between the rise in NO and cGMP was found. 7. Endothelial P2Y(1) and P2Y(2) receptors coupled to the NO/cGMP cascade suggest that extracellular nucleotides are involved in endothelial-smooth muscle signalling. Additional muscular P2Y and P2X receptors highlight the physiology of nucleotides in vascular regulation.

Vagal mechanoreceptors and chemoreceptors in mouse stomach and esophagus

We used a novel in vitro mouse vagus-gastro-esophageal preparation to study the properties of peripheral vagal afferent endings. We found two types of mechanoreceptive fiber, mucosal receptors and tension receptors. These were distinguished by their sensitivity to mucosal stroking with von Frey hairs and circular tension applied via a claw-cantilever system. A comparison was made with gastro-esophageal afferents found in a similar preparation of ferret tissue. Responses of mouse tension receptors to circular tension were significantly greater than ferret tension and tension/mucosal receptors. Similarly the responses of mouse mucosal receptors to mucosal stroking were significantly greater than ferret mucosal and tension/mucosal receptors. Forty-seven percent of mouse mucosal receptors and 50% of tension receptors responded to one or more drugs or chemical stimuli applied to the receptive field. These included alpha,beta-methylene ATP (10(-6) to 10(-3) M), 5-hydroxytryptamine (10(-6) to 10(-3) M), and hydrochloric acid (10(-2) to 10(-1) M). Drug responses were concentration dependent. One hundred percent of mucosal receptors and 61% of tension receptors tested responded to bile (1:8 to 1:1 dilution). A third type of fiber was recruited by bile. These fibers were mechanically insensitive and silent prior to bile exposure. In conclusion, we have shown three types of gastro-esophageal vagal afferent fibers in the mouse: mucosal mechanoreceptors, tension receptors, and specific chemoreceptors activated by bile.

Effects of adenosine on bacterial lipopolysaccharide- and interleukin 1-induced nitric oxide release from equine articular chondrocytes

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether adenosine influences the in vitro release of nitric oxide (NO) from differentiated primary equine articular chondrocytes.

SAMPLE POPULATION

Articular cartilage harvested from the metacarpophalangeal and metatarsophalangeal joints of 11 horses (3 to 11 years old) without history or clinical signs of joint disease.

PROCEDURE

Chondrocytes were isolated, plated at a high density (10(5) cells/well), and treated with adenosine, the adenosine receptor agonist 5'-N-ethylcarboxamidoadenosine (NECA), bradykinin, or other agents that modify secondary messenger pathways alone or in combination with bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) or recombinant human interleukin-1alpha (rhIL-1alpha). Nitric oxide release was measured indirectly by use of the Griess reaction and was expressed as micromol of nitrite in the supernatant/microg of protein in the cell layer. Inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) activity was determined by measuring the conversion of radiolabeled arginine to radiolabeled citrulline.

RESULTS

Treatment of chondrocytes with adenosine alone had no significant effect on NO release. However, adenosine and NECA inhibited LPS- and rhIL-1alpha-induced NO release. This response was mimicked by forskolin, which acts to increase adenylate cyclase activity, but not by the calcium ionophore A23187 Treatment of chondrocytes with phorbol myristate acetate, which acts to increase protein kinase C activity, potentiated LPS-induced NO release. Adenosine treatment also significantly inhibited the LPS-induced increase in iNOS activity.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Adenosine and the nonspecific adenosine receptor agonist NECA inhibited inflammatory mediator-induced release of NO from equine articular chondrocytes. Modulation of adenosine receptor-mediated pathways may offer novel methods for treatment of inflammation in horses with joint disease.

Rapid correction of vestibular imbalance by intracochlear administration of ATP in a guinea pig model of unilateral peripheral vestibular disorder

The effect of inner ear administration of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) on vestibular function was investigated in guinea pigs with vestibular disorder. The right lateral semicircular canal was cut surgically. Animals were then treated with saline, 5 mM ATP, 50 mM ATP, or 50 mM ATP+10 mM pyridoxal-phosphate-6-azophenyl-2', 4'-disulfonic acid (PPADS), a P2X receptor antagonist, administered directly into the scala tympani by osmotic pump. Before treatment, and at 3, 5 and 7 days after treatment, trapezoid rotation tests were performed on all animals, and the post-rotatory nystagmus (PRN) ratio (number of nystagmus beats after counterclockwise rotation/number of nystagmus beats after clockwise rotation) was calculated and compared between groups. The PRN ratio was statistically greater at 5 days after treatment in the 50 mM ATP group than in the saline group. A statistical difference was also observed in animals treated with 50 mM ATP+10 mM PPADS. Our results indicate that ATP plays an important role in the vestibular periphery to correct vestibular imbalance and that this action may not occur via P2X receptors.

Antinociceptive effects of intracerebroventricularly administered P2 purinoceptor agonists in the rat

We examined the effects of adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP) and its analogues administered intracerebroventricularly on nociceptive thresholds in rats. Intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.) administration of ATP (10 and 100 nmol/rat), alpha,beta-methylene-ATP (1-30 nmol/rat) and 2', 3'-O-(4-benzoylbenzoyl)-ATP (1-30 nmol/rat) dose-dependently elevated the mechanical nociceptive threshold in the paw pressure test. These antinociceptive effects were rapid and short-lasting, peaking at 5 min and disappearing by 20 min after the administration. However, i.c.v. administration of beta,gamma-methylene-ATP (1-30 nmol/rat) and UTP (10 and 100 nmol/rat) had no significant effects on the mechanical nociceptive threshold. In other tests, i.c.v. administration of alpha,beta-methylene-ATP (10 and 30 nmol/rat) prolonged the thermal nociceptive latency in the hot plate test, but only a higher dose (30 nmol/rat) of alpha,beta-methylene-ATP prolonged the latency in the tail flick test. alpha,beta-Methylene-ATP produced no motor deficit in the inclined plane test. These results suggest that P2X purinoceptors play an inhibitory role in nociception at the supraspinal level.

Synapse-glia interactions at the mammalian neuromuscular junction

Perisynaptic Schwann cells (PSCs) play critical roles in regulating and stabilizing nerve terminals at the mammalian neuromuscular junction (NMJ). However, although these functions are likely regulated by the synaptic properties, the interactions of PSCs with the synaptic elements are not known. Therefore, our goal was to study the interactions between mammalian PSCs in situ and the presynaptic terminals using changes in intracellular Ca(2+) as an indicator of cell activity. Motor nerve stimulation induced an increase in intracellular Ca(2+) in PSCs, and this increase was greatly reduced when transmitter release was blocked. Furthermore, local application of acetylcholine induced Ca(2+) responses that were blocked by the muscarinic antagonist atropine and mimicked by the muscarinic agonist muscarine. The nicotinic antagonist alpha-bungarotoxin had no effect on Ca(2+) responses induced by acetylcholine. Local application of the cotransmitter ATP induced Ca(2+) responses that were unaffected by the P2 antagonist suramin, whereas local application of adenosine induced Ca(2+) responses that were greatly reduced by the A1 receptor antagonist 8-cyclopentyl-1,3-dimethylxanthine (CPT). However, the presence of the A1 antagonist in the perfusate did not block responses induced by ATP. Ca(2+) responses evoked by stimulation of the motor nerve were reduced in the presence of CPT, whereas atropine almost completely abolished them. Ca(2+) responses were further reduced when both antagonists were present simultaneously. Hence, PSCs at the mammalian NMJ respond to the release of neurotransmitter induced by stimulation of the motor nerve through the activation of muscarinic and adenosine A1 receptors.

Extracellular ATP stimulates an inhibitory pathway towards growth factor-induced cRaf-1 and MEKK activation in astrocyte cultures

ATP, acting via P2Y, G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), is a mitogenic signal and also synergistically enhances fibroblast growth factor-2 (FGF-2)-induced proliferation in astrocytes. Here, we have examined the effects of ATP and FGF-2 cotreatment on the main components of the extracellular-signal regulated protein kinase (ERK) cascade, cRaf-1, MAPK/ERK kinase (MEK) and ERK, key regulators of cellular proliferation. Surprisingly, ATP inhibited activation of cRaf-1 by FGF-2 in primary cultures of rat cortical astrocytes. The inhibitory effect did not diminish MEK and ERK activation; indeed, cotreatment resulted in a greater initial activation of ERK. ATP inhibition of cRaf-1 activation was not mediated by an increase in cyclic AMP levels or by protein kinase C activation. ATP also inhibited the activation of cRaf-1 by other growth factors, epidermal growth factor and platelet-derived growth factor, as well as other MEK1 activators stimulated by FGF-2, MEK kinase 1 (MEKK1) and MEKK2. Serotonin, an agonist of another GPCR coupled to ERK, did not inhibit FGF-2-induced cRaf-1 activation, thereby indicating specificity in the ATP-induced inhibitory cross-talk. These findings suggest that ATP stimulates an inhibitory activity that lays upstream of MEK activators and inhibits growth factor-induced activation of cRaf-1 and MEKKS: Such a mechanism might serve to integrate the actions of receptor tyrosine kinases and P2Y-GPCRS:

Extracellular ATP stimulates estradiol secretion in rat Sertoli cells in vitro: modulation by external sodium

In this study, we examined the effects of extracellular ATP (ATPe) on [Ca(2+)](i), [Na(+)](i), plasma membrane potential changes and estradiol secretion in rat Sertoli cells. ATPe caused a rapid rise of [Ca(2+)](i) with an initial spike followed by a long lasting plateau. The first rapid spike was dependent on the release of Ca(2+) from internal stores as it also occurred in Ca(2+)-free medium while the long lasting plateau phase was dependent on Ca(2+) influx from the external medium. ATPe stimulated a rapid plasma membrane depolarization that was dependent on an influx of Na(+) from the external medium as demonstrated by plasma membrane potential monitoring in Na(+)-free medium and by [Na(+)](i) measurement with the Na(+)-sensitive fluorescent dye SBFI. ATPe stimulated estradiol secretion in a dose dependent manner and was fully dependent on the presence of Na(+) in the external medium while the presence of Ca(2+) was not necessary. Among the different nucleotides tested, only ATP, ATP-5'-[gamma-thio]triphosphate, UTP, alpha,beta-methylene-ATP were effective in stimulating estradiol secretion. These results demonstrate that rat Sertoli cells possess P2-purinergic receptors belonging to the P2X and P2Y subfamily which activation induces [Ca(2+)](i) and [Na(+)](i) rise and Na(+)-dependent plasma membrane depolarization leading to estradiol secretion.

Stimulation of cardiac L-type calcium channels by extracellular ATP

The co-release of ATP with norepinephrine from sympathetic nerve terminals in the heart may augment adrenergic stimulation of cardiac Ca(2+) channel activity. To test for a possible direct effect of extracellular ATP on L-type Ca(2+) channels, single channels were reconstituted from porcine sarcolemma into planar lipid bilayers so that intracellular signaling pathways could be controlled. Extracellular ATP (2-100 microM) increased the open probability of the reconstituted channels, with a maximal increase of approximately 2.6-fold and an EC(50) of 3.9 microM. The increase in open probability was due to an increase in channel availability and a decrease in channel inactivation rate. Other nucleotides displayed a rank order of effectiveness of ATP > alpha,beta-methylene-ATP > 2-methylthio-ATP > UTP > adenosine 5'-O-(3-thiotriphosphate) >> ADP; adenosine had no effect. Several antagonists of P2 receptors had no impact on the ATP-dependent increase in open probability, indicating that receptor activation was not required. These results suggest that extracellular ATP and other nucleotides can stimulate the activity of cardiac L-type Ca(2+) channels via a direct interaction with the channels.

Mechanism of carbon monoxide-induced relaxation in the guinea pig ileal smooth muscle

The mechanism of carbon monoxide (CO)-induced relaxation were investigated in the guinea-pig ileum. CO (10%) inhibited the 40 mM KCl-induced contraction. This effect was antagonized by ODQ (1 microM), a soluble guanylate cyclase inhibitor. In contrast, CO did not inhibit the 40 mM KCl-induced increase in cytosolic Ca2+ level ([Ca2+]i). Cumulative addition of KCl induced a graded increase in both [Ca2+]i and muscle tension. In the presence of CO, the increase in muscle tension was attenuated whereas the increase in [Ca2+]i was only slightly decreased. Thus, the [Ca2+]i-tension relationship constructed by cumulative addition of KCl shifted downwards in the presence of CO. Using the patch clamp, CO was found to have little effect on the peak Ba currents (I(Ba)) when voltage was stepped from -60 mV to 0 mV. From these results, we conclude that CO inhibits contraction of guinea-pig ileum mainly by the decrease in the sensitivity of contractile elements to Ca2+ via a cyclic GMP-dependent pathway but not by the inhibition of L-type Ca2+ channel.

Molecular basis of mechanotransduction in living cells

The simplest cell-like structure, the lipid bilayer vesicle, can respond to mechanical deformation by elastic membrane dilation/thinning and curvature changes. When a protein is inserted in the lipid bilayer, an energetic cost may arise because of hydrophobic mismatch between the protein and bilayer. Localized changes in bilayer thickness and curvature may compensate for this mismatch. The peptides alamethicin and gramicidin and the bacterial membrane protein MscL form mechanically gated (MG) channels when inserted in lipid bilayers. Their mechanosensitivity may arise because channel opening is associated with a change in the protein's membrane-occupied area, its hydrophobic mismatch with the bilayer, excluded water volume, or a combination of these effects. As a consequence, bilayer dilation/thinning or changes in local membrane curvature may shift the equilibrium between channel conformations. Recent evidence indicates that MG channels in specific animal cell types (e.g., Xenopus oocytes) are also gated directly by bilayer tension. However, animal cells lack the rigid cell wall that protects bacteria and plants cells from excessive expansion of their bilayer. Instead, a cortical cytoskeleton (CSK) provides a structural framework that allows the animal cell to maintain a stable excess membrane area (i.e., for its volume occupied by a sphere) in the form of membrane folds, ruffles, and microvilli. This excess membrane provides an immediate membrane reserve that may protect the bilayer from sudden changes in bilayer tension. Contractile elements within the CSK may locally slacken or tighten bilayer tension to regulate mechanosensitivity, whereas membrane blebbing and tight seal patch formation, by using up membrane reserves, may increase membrane mechanosensitivity. In specific cases, extracellular and/or CSK proteins (i.e., tethers) may transmit mechanical forces to the process (e.g., hair cell MG channels, MS intracellular Ca(2+) release, and transmitter release) without increasing tension in the lipid bilayer.

Adenosine triphosphate activates mitogen-activated protein kinase in human granulosa-luteal cells

ATP has been shown to activate the phospholipase C/diacylglycerol/protein kinase C (PKC) pathway. However, little is known about the downstream signaling events. The present study was designed to examine the effect of ATP on activation of the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway and its physiological role in human granulosa-luteal cells. Western blot analysis, using a monoclonal antibody that detected the phosphorylated forms of extracellular signal-regulated kinase-1 and -2 (p42(mapk) and p44 (mapk), respectively), demonstrated that ATP activated MAPK in a dose- and time-dependent manner. Treatment of the cells with suramin (a P2 purinoceptor antagonist), neomycin (a phospholipase C inhibitor), staurosporin (a PKC inhibitor), or PD98059 (an MAPK/ERK kinase inhibitor) significantly attenuated the ATP-induced activation of MAPK. In contrast, ATP-induced MAPK activation was not significantly affected by pertussis toxin (a G(i) inhibitor). To examine the role of G(s) protein, the intracellular cAMP level was determined after treatment with ATP or hCG. No significant elevation of intracellular cAMP was noted after ATP treatment. To determine the role of MAPK in steroidogenesis, human granulosa-luteal cells were treated with ATP, hCG, or ATP plus hCG in the presence or absence of PD98059. RIA revealed that ATP alone did not significantly affect the basal progesterone concentration. However, hCG-induced progesterone production was reduced by ATP treatment. PD98059 reversed the inhibitory effect of ATP on hCG-induced progesterone production. To our knowledge, this is the first demonstration of ATP-induced activation of the MAPK signaling pathway in the human ovary. These results support the idea that the MAPK signaling pathway is involved in mediating ATP actions in the human ovary.

Ligand-gated purinergic receptors are differentially expressed in the adult rat vestibular periphery

To further characterize the pattern of expression of the ligand-gated purinergic P2X receptors in the peripheral vestibular system, we conducted reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction amplification of P2X1 and P2X2 messenger RNA extracted from adult rat vestibular ganglia (Scarpa's ganglia) and vestibular end organs. Transcripts encoding P2X1 were found in both Scarpa's ganglia and the end organs, but transcripts encoding P2X2 were found only in the vestibular end organs. These results support previous electrophysiological data, and they provide a more complete understanding of the specific role of purinergic (adenosine-5'-triphosphate) transmission in the vestibular periphery.

Modulation and genetic identification of the M channel

Potassium channels constitute a superfamily of the most diversified ion channels, acting in delicate and accurate ways to control or modify many physiological and pathological functions including membrane excitability, transmitter release, cell proliferation and cell degeneration. The M-type channel is a unique ligand-regulated and voltage-gated K(+) channel showing distinct physiological and pharmacological characteristics. This review will cover some important progress in the study of M channel modulation, particularly focusing on membrane transduction mechanisms. The K(+) channel genes corresponding to the M channel have been identified and will be reviewed in detail. It has been a long journey since the discovery of M current in 1980 to our present understanding of the mysterious mechanisms for M channel modulation; a journey which exemplifies tremendous achievements in ion channel research and exciting discoveries of elaborate modulatory systems linked to these channels. While substantial evidence has accumulated, challenging questions remain to be answered.

Adenosine triphosphate-evoked cytosolic calcium oscillations in human granulosa-luteal cells: role of protein kinase C

ATP has been shown to modulate progesterone production in human granulosa-luteal cells (hGLCs) in vitro. After binding to a G protein-coupled P2 purinergic receptor, ATP stimulates phospholipase C. The resultant production of diacylglycerol and inositol triphosphate activates protein kinase C (PKC) and intracellular calcium [Ca(2+)](i) mobilization, respectively. In the present study, we examined the potential cross-talk between the PKC and Ca(2+) pathway in ATP signal transduction. Specifically, the effect of PKC on regulating ATP-evoked [Ca(2+)](i) oscillations were examined in hGLCs. Using microspectrofluorimetry, [Ca(2+)](i) oscillations were detected in Fura-2 loaded hGLCs in primary culture. The amplitudes of the ATP-triggered [Ca(2+)](i) oscillations were reduced in a dose-dependent manner by pretreating the cells with various concentrations (1 nM to 10 microM) of the PKC activator, phorbol-12-myristate-13-acetate (PMA). A 10 microM concentration of PMA completely suppressed 10 microM ATP-induced oscillations. The inhibitory effect occurred even when PMA was given during the plateau phase of ATP evoked [Ca(2+)](i) oscillations, suggesting that extracellular calcium influx was inhibited. The role of PKC was further substantiated by the observation that, in the presence of a PKC inhibitor, bisindolylmaleimide I, ATP-induced [Ca(2+)](i) oscillations were not completely suppressed by PMA. Furthermore, homologous desensitization of ATP-induced calcium oscillations was partially reversed by bisindolylmaleimide I, suggesting that activated PKC may be involved in the mechanism of desensitization. These results demonstrate that PKC negatively regulates the ATP-evoked [Ca(2+)](i) mobilization from both intracellular stores and extracellular influx in hGLCs and further support a modulatory role of ATP and P2 purinoceptor in ovarian steroidogenesis.

Müller cell Ca2+ waves evoked by purinergic receptor agonists in slices of rat retina

We have measured agonist evoked Ca2+ waves in Müller cells in situ within freshly isolated retinal slices. Using an eye cup dye loading procedure we were able to preferentially fill Müller glial cells in retinal slices with calcium green. Fluorescence microscopy revealed that bath perfusion of slices with purinergic agonists elicits Ca2+ waves in Müller cells, which propagate along their processes. These Ca2+ signals were insensitive to tetrodotoxin (TTX, 1.0 microM) pretreatment. Cells were readily identified as Müller cells by their unique morphology and by subsequent immunocytochemical labeling with glial fibrillary acidic protein antibodies. While cells never exhibited spontaneous Ca2+ oscillations, purinoreceptor agonists, ATP, 2 MeSATP, ADP, 2 MeSADP, and adenosine readily elicited Ca2+ waves. These waves persisted in the absence of [Ca2+]o but were abolished by thapsigargin pretreatment, suggesting that the purinergic agonists tested act by releasing Ca2+ from intracellular Ca2+ stores. The rank order of potency of different purines and pyrimidines for inducing Ca2+ signals was 2 MeSATP = 2MeSADP > ADP > ATP >> alphabetameATP = uridine triphosphate (UTP) > uridine diphosphate (UDP). The Ca2+ signals evoked by ATP, ADP, and 2 MeSATP were inhibited by reactive blue (100 microM) and suramin (200 microM), and the adenosine induced signals were abolished only by 3,7-dimethyl-1-propargylxanthine (200 microM) and not by 1,3-dipropyl-8-(2-amino-4-chlorophenyl)-xanthine) or 8-cyclopentyl-1,3-dipropylxanthine at the same concentration. Based on these pharmacological characteristics and the dose-response relationships for ATP, 2 MeSATP, 2 MeSADP, ADP, and adenosine, we concluded that Müller cells express the P1A2 and P2Y1 subtypes of purinoceptors. Analysis of Ca2+ responses showed that, similar to glial cells in culture, wave propagation occurred by regenerative amplification at specialized Ca2+ release sites (wave amplification sites), where the rate of Ca2+ release was significantly enhanced. These data suggest that Müller cells in the retina may participate in signaling, and this may serve as an extra-neuronal signaling pathway.

Nitrergic and purinergic regulation of the rat pylorus

The role of nitric oxide (NO) and ATP in the regulation of nonadrenergic, noncholinergic (NANC) inhibitory transmission in the pylorus remains unclear. In the presence of atropine and guanethidine, electric field stimulation induced NANC relaxations in a frequency-dependent manner (1-20 Hz) in the rat pylorus. NANC relaxations were significantly inhibited by N(G)-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME; 10(-4) M). P(2X) purinoceptor antagonist pyridoxal phosphate-6-azophenyl-2',4'-disulfonic acid (PPADS; 3 x 10(-5) M) and P(2Y) purinoceptor antagonist reactive blue 2 (2 x 10(-5) M) had no effect on NANC relaxations. However, the combined administration of L-NAME and PPADS, but not reactive blue 2, evoked greater inhibitory effects on NANC relaxation than that evoked by L-NAME alone. alpha-Chymotrypsin and vasoactive intestinal polypeptide antagonist did not affect NANC relaxations. ATP (10(-5)-10(-3) M) and P(2X) purinoceptor agonist alpha, beta-methyleneadenosine 5'-triphosphate (10(-7)-10(-5) M), but not P(2Y) purinoceptor agonist 2-methylthioadenosine 5'-triphosphate (10(-7)-10(-5) M), induced muscle relaxations in a dose-dependent manner, and relaxations were significantly reduced by PPADS and unaffected by TTX. These studies suggest that NO and ATP act in concert to mediate NANC relaxation of the rat pylorus. ATP-induced relaxation appears to be mediated by P(2X) purinoceptors located on smooth muscle cells.

Extracellular adenosine 5'-ATP-induced calcium signaling in isolated vestibular ganglion cells of the guinea pig

Extracellular adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP)-induced intracellular calcium concentration ([Ca2+]i) changes in acutely isolated vestibular ganglion cells (VGCs) of the guinea pig were investigated using the Ca2+ -sensitive dye Fura-2. Extracellular ATP induced an increase in [Ca2+]i in VGCs in a dose-dependent manner. ATP induced an increase in [Ca2+]i even in the absence of extracellular Ca2+ (1 mM Ethylene Glycol-bis (beta-aminoethyl Ether) N,N,N',N'-Tetraacetic Acid (EGTA)), thus suggesting that ATP induces Ca2+ release from the intracellular stores. The P2-receptor antagonists suramin and reactive blue 2 inhibited the ATP-induced [Ca2+]i increase in a dose-dependent manner. The P1-receptor agonist adenosine did not induce any changes in [Ca2+]i. These results suggest that VGCs may possess a P2-purinergic receptor but not a P1-purinergic receptor. La3+, a receptor-mediated calcium channel blocker, inhibited the ATP-induced [Ca2+]i increase but, in contrast, nifedipine, a L-type calcium channel blocker, did not. These results suggest that ATP induces both a Ca2+ -release from the intracellular stores and a Ca2+ influx from the extracellular space through La3+ -sensitive and nifedipine-insensitive Ca2+ channels in VGCs. Our results also suggest that extracellular ATP may act as a neurotransmitter or neuromodulator of the vestibular peripheral system in the guinea pig.

ADP is not an agonist at P2X(1) receptors: evidence for separate receptors stimulated by ATP and ADP on human platelets

ADP, an important agonist in thrombosis and haemostasis, has been reported to activate platelets via three receptors, P2X(1), P2Y(1) and P2T(AC). Given the low potency of ADP at P2X(1) receptors and recognized contamination of commercial samples of adenosine nucleotides, we have re-examined the activation of P2X(1) receptors by ADP following HPLC and enzymatic purification. Native P2X(1) receptor currents in megakaryocytes were activated by alpha, beta-meATP (10 microM) and commercial samples of ADP (10 microM), but not by purified ADP (10 - 100 microM). Purified ADP (up to 1 mM) was also inactive at recombinant human P2X(1) receptors expressed in Xenopus oocytes. Purification did not modify the ability of ADP to activate P2Y receptors coupled to Ca(2+) mobilization in rat megakaryocytes. In human platelets, P2X(1) and P2Y receptor-mediated [Ca(2+)](i) responses were distinguished by their different kinetics at 13 degrees C. In 1 mM Ca(2+) saline, alpha,beta-meATP (10 microM) and commercial ADP (40 microM) activated a rapid [Ca(2+)](i) increase (lag time < or =0.5 s) through the activation of P2X(1) receptors. Hexokinase treatment of ADP shifted the lag time by approximately 2 s, indicating loss of the P2X(1) receptor-mediated response. A revised scheme is proposed for physiological activation of P2 receptors in human platelets. ATP stimulates P2X(1) receptors, whereas ADP is a selective agonist at metabotropic (P2Y(1) and P2T(AC)) receptors.

ATP-induced [Ca(2+)](i) changes and depolarization in GH3 cells

Extracellular ATP is a neurotransmitter and mediates a variety of responses. In the endocrine system, there are data suggesting a physiological role for ATP in Ca(2+) signalling and hormone secretion. However, the ATP receptor subtype involved has not been clearly elucidated in GH3 cells, a rat anterior pituitary cell line. BzATP- and ATP-induced [Ca(2+)](i) responses had EC(50) values of 18 and 651 microM, respectively. The maximal response to ATP was only 59+/-8% of that for BzATP. The BzATP-induced [Ca(2+)](i) increase was dependent upon the extracellular Ca(2+) concentration. Preincubation with oxidized ATP (oATP) nearly abolished the ATP- and BzATP-induced [Ca(2+)](i) increases. Both BzATP and ATP induced depolarization in GH3 cells, with EC(50) values of 31 microM and 1 mM, respectively. The maximal depolarization to BzATP and ATP were 152+/-21 and 146+/-16% of that elicited by 30 mM KCl. The rank order of agonist potency for [Ca(2+)](i) and depolarization responses was BzATP > > ATP >2-MeSATP and purine derivatives such as ADP, AMP, adenosine were ineffective. Neither UTP nor alpha, beta-methylene ATP showed any effect. In low-divalent conditions BzATP evoked non-desensitizing inward currents, which were reversed at approximately 0 mV. This nonselective cationic conductance was increased by repeated applications of BzATP and the cells became very permeable to NMDG. Longer applications (30 min) of BzATP stimulated ethidium bromide influx in low divalent conditions, suggesting increased permeability to larger molecules. We also identified the existence of P2X(7) mRNA on GH3 cells by using reverse transcriptase (RT)-polymerase chain reaction (PCR). These results suggest that the GH3 cells have an endogenous P2X(7) receptor and purinergic stimulation may play a potential role in neuroendocrine modulation on these cells.

Functional properties of heteromeric P2X(1/5) receptors expressed in HEK cells and excitatory junction potentials in guinea-pig submucosal arterioles

P2X receptors are ATP-gated cation channels; they form as homomers or heteromers from a family of seven related subunits. In particular, heteromeric channels comprising P2X(2) and P2X(3) subunits, or P2X(1) and P2X(5) subunits, show distinctive physiological and pharmacological properties in heterologous expression systems. There is substantial evidence that one of the native P2X receptors in sensory neurones corresponds to the P2X(2/3) heteromer, but there is no evidence for P2X(1/5) heteromers in native tissue. We recorded currents in response to activation of heteromeric P2X(1/5) receptors expressed in HEK293 cells to characterize further their functional properties. The ATP concentration-response curve had a threshold concentration of 1 nM, and a Hill slope of one. TNP-ATP was a weak partial agonist, and a non-competitive antagonist which inhibited maximal ATP currents by 60%. Increasing or decreasing pH from 7.3 shifted the ATP concentration-response curves to the right by fivefold and decreased the maximum current by 40%. Calcium permeability was lower than that observed for other P2X receptors (P(Ca)/P(Na) ratio=1.1). The nanomolar sensitivity of this receptor revealed a steady release of ATP from HEK293 cells, providing an extracellular concentration which ranged from 3 to 300 nM. Noradrenaline (0.3-30 microM) increased ATP-evoked currents by 35%; this facilitation occurred within 20 ms. We also recorded excitatory junction potentials (EJPs) from guinea-pig submucosal arterioles. EJPs were inhibited by suramin and PPADS (IC(50)s of 0.2 microM and 20 microM) but TNP-ATP (0.1-10 microM) inhibited EJPs by <30%. Noradrenaline (0.3-30 microM in the presence of phentolamine and propranolol) decreased EJPs in control preparations but facilitated EJPs by 5-20% in submucosal arterioles from reserpinized guinea-pigs. These properties are discussed in relation to P2X receptors underlying EJPs at autonomic neuroeffector junctions.

Expression and regulation of P2U-purinergic receptor in human granulosa-luteal cells

The P2U purinoceptor (P2UR) has been identified pharmacologically in the ovary. However, the expression and regulation of the P2UR messenger RNA (mRNA) in human ovarian cells are still poorly characterized. The present study was designed to examine the expression and regulation of the P2UR in human granulosa-luteal cells (hGLCs) by RT-PCR and Northern blot analysis. A PCR product corresponding to the expected 599-bp P2UR complementary DNA was obtained from hGLCs. Molecular cloning and sequencing of the PCR product revealed an identical sequence to the reported P2UR complementary DNA. Two mRNA transcripts of 2.0 kb and 4.6 kb were identified in hGLCs using Northern blot analysis. The expression of the P2UR mRNA was down-regulated by human CG in a dose- and time-dependent manner. Treatment with 8-bromo-cAMP and forskolin also attenuated P2UR mRNA levels. Calcium signaling following the activation of the P2UR in single hGLCs was studied using microspectrofluorimetry. It revealed that, like ATP, uridine triphosphate (UTP) also induced cytosolic calcium mobilization in a dose-dependent manner. These results demonstrate for the first time that the P2UR mRNA is expressed in hGLCs and that P2UR mRNA is regulated by human CG, cAMP, and forskolin. The P2UR expressed in hGLCs functional because activation of the P2UR by ATP or UTP resulted in rapid and transient mobilization of cytosolic calcium at the single cell level. These findings further support a potential role of this neurotransmitter receptor in the human ovary.

Dipyridamole in the treatment of schizophrenia: adenosine-dopamine receptor interactions

OBJECTIVE

There is growing interest in investigating the adenosine-dopamine interaction in the ventral striatum. Adenosine plays a role opposite to dopamine in the striatum and adenosine antagonists, like caffeine, produce similar effects to increased dopaminergic neurotransmission in the striatum. In particular, a strong antagonistic interaction between adenosine A2A and dopamine D2 receptors takes place in the striopallidal GABAergic neurones. Therefore, adenosine agonists or uptake inhibitors provide a potential new treatment for schizophrenia. We undertook a pilot trial to investigate whether the combination of haloperidol with dipyridamole, an uptake inhibitor of adenosine, was more effective than haloperidol alone.

METHODS

Thirty patients who met the DSM IV criteria for schizophrenia completed the study. Patients were allocated in a random fashion, 16 to haloperidol 20 mg/day plus dipyridamole 75 mg/day and 14 to haloperidol 20 mg/day plus placebo.

RESULTS

Although both protocols significantly decreased the score of the positive, negative and general psychopathological symptoms over the trial period, the combination of haloperidol and dipyridamole was significantly better than haloperidol alone in decreasing positive and general psychopathology symptoms as well as PANSS total scores.

CONCLUSION

Dipyridamole may be of therapeutic benefit in treating schizophrenia in combination with neuroleptics. However, a larger study to confirm our results is warranted.

A historical perspective on the discovery of adenyl purines

In 1929, Drury and Szent-Gyorgyi described the effects of a simple extract of heart muscle and other tissues on the mammalian heart. This extract was identified as adenylic acid and found to have profound effects on the cardiovascular system. The discovery and identification of adenyl purines and their effects on the cardiovascular system has now extended to other biological functions such as neurotransmission, neuromodulation, and endocrine/exocrine secretory functions and beyond. This review examines the history of the discovery and identification of the many roles played by adenyl purines in regulation of physiological homeostasis.

Functional expression of three P2X(2) receptor splice variants from guinea pig cochlea

ATP has been suggested to act as a neurotransmitter or a neuromodulator in the cochlea. The responses to ATP in different cell types of the cochlea vary in terms of the rate of desensitization and magnitude, suggesting that there may be different subtypes of P2X receptors distributed in the cochlea. Recently three ionotropic P2X(2) receptor splice variants, P2X(2-1), P2X(2-2), and P2X(2-3,) were isolated and sequenced from a guinea pig cochlear cDNA library. To test the hypothesis that these different splice variants could be expressed as functional homomeric receptors, the three P2X(2) receptor variants were individually and transiently expressed in human embryonic kidney cells (HEK293). The biophysical and pharmacological properties of these receptors were characterized using the whole cell patch-clamp technique. Extracellular application of ATP induced an inward current in HEK293 cells containing each of the three splice variants in a dose-dependent manner indicating the expression of homomeric receptors. Current-voltage (I-V) relationships for the ATP-gated current show that the three subtypes of the P2X(2) receptor had a similar reversal potential and an inward rectification index (I(50 mV)/I(-50 mV)). However, the ATP-induced currents in cells expressing P2X(2-1) and P2X(2-2) variants were large and desensitized rapidly whereas the current in those cells expressing the P2X(2-3) variant was much smaller and desensitized slower. The order of potency to ATP agonists was 2-MeSATP > ATP > alpha,beta -MeATP for all three expressed splice variants. The ATP receptor antagonists suramin and PPADS reduced the effects of ATP on all three variants. Results demonstrate that three P2X(2) splice variants from guinea pig cochlea, P2X(2-1), P2X(2-2), and P2X(2-3), can individually form nonselective cation receptor channels when these subunits are expressed in HEK293 cells. The distinct properties of these P2X(2) receptor splice variants may contribute to the differences in the response to ATP observed in native cochlear cells.

P(2Y) purinoceptor subtypes recruit different mek activators in astrocytes

Extracellular ATP can function as a glial trophic factor as well as a neuronal transmitter. In astrocytes, mitogenic signalling by ATP is mediated by metabotropic P(2Y) receptors that are linked to the extracellular signal regulated protein kinase (Erk) cascade, but the types of P(2Y) receptors expressed in astrocytes have not been defined and it is not known whether all P(2Y) receptor subtypes are coupled to Erk by identical or distinct signalling pathways. We found that the P(2Y) receptor agonists ATP, ADP, UTP and 2-methylthioATP (2MeSATP) activated Erk and its upstream activator MAP/Erk kinase (Mek). cRaf-1, the first kinase in the Erk cascade, was activated by 2MeSATP, ADP and UTP but, surprisingly, cRaf-1 was not stimulated by ATP. Furthermore, ATP did not activate B-Raf, the major isoform of Raf in the brain, nor other Mek activators such as Mek kinase 1 (MekK1) and MekK2/3. Reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT - PCR) studies using primer pairs for cloned rat P(2Y) receptors revealed that rat cortical astrocytes express P(2Y(1)), a receptor subtype stimulated by ATP and ADP and their 2MeS analogues, as well as P(2Y(2)) and P(2Y(4)), subtypes in rats for which ATP and UTP are equipotent. Transcripts for P(2Y(6)), a pyrimidine-preferring receptor, were not detected. ATP did not increase cyclic AMP levels, suggesting that P(2Y(11)), an ATP-preferring receptor, is not expressed or is not linked to adenylyl cyclase in rat cortical astrocytes. These signal transduction and RT - PCR experiments reveal differences in the activation of cRaf-1 by P(2Y) receptor agonists that are inconsistent with properties of the P(2Y(1)), P(2Y(2)) and P(2Y(4)) receptors shown to be expressed in astrocytes, i.e. ATP=UTP; ATP=2MeSATP, ADP. This suggests that the properties of the native P(2Y) receptors coupled to the Erk cascade differ from the recombinant P(2Y) receptors or that astrocytes express novel purine-preferring and pyrimidine-preferring receptors coupled to the ERK cascade.

Comparison of the vascular innervation of the rat cochlea and vestibular system

In order to gain a better understanding of the neuronal and local control of inner ear blood flow, the vascular innervation to the rat cochlea and vestibular system was examined. Specimens were removed in toto beginning at the basilar artery extending to the anterior inferior cerebellar artery, labyrinthine artery, common cochlear artery, modiolar artery and anterior vestibular artery. When possible the vessels were dissected in continuity through the cribrose area. The vestibular endorgans were also removed. Specimens were examined using immunohistochemical techniques for the presence of vasoactive intestinal peptide, neuronal nitric oxide synthase, neuropeptide-Y, substance P and calcitonin gene related peptide. Results show that the vasculature to the cochlea and vestibular portion of the inner ear receive similar types of nonadrenergic innervation, that within the vestibular endorgans, only CGRP and SP were found in the neuroepithelium or in association with vessels, and that within the vestibular system, the majority of the vascular innervation appears to stop at or near the cribrose area. In the cochlea however, it extends to include the radiating arterioles. These findings suggest that cochlear blood flow is under finer control and that neuronally induced changes in blood flow may have a more global effect in the vestibular periphery.

The effect of P2 receptor antagonists and ATPase inhibition on sympathetic purinergic neurotransmission in the guinea-pig isolated vas deferens

1. Intracellular microelectrodes were used to record the transmembrane potential and excitatory junction potentials (e.j.p.s) produced by sympathetic nerve stimulation (1 Hz) in smooth muscle cells of the guinea-pig isolated vas deferens. 2. The symmetrical 3'-urea of 8-(benzamido)naphthalene-1,3,5-trisulphonic acid (NF023) produced a concentration-dependent inhibition of e.j.p. magnitude (IC(50)=4. 8x10(-6) M), but had no effect on the resting membrane potential of the smooth muscle cells. 3. Pyridoxal-5-phosphate (P-5-P) also depressed e.j.p. magnitude in a concentration-dependent manner, but was less potent than NF023 (IC(50)=2.2x10(-5) M). At 10(-4) M and above P-5-P significantly depolarized the smooth muscle cells. 4. The nucleoside triphosphatase inhibitor 6-N,N-diethyl-D-beta, gamma-dibromomethyleneATP (ARL 67156) (5x10(-5) M) significantly increased e.j.p. amplitude. ARL 67156 (10(-4) M) further increased e. j.p. amplitude such that they often reached threshold for initiation of action potentials, causing muscle contraction and expulsion of the recording electrode. 5. After reduction of e.j.p.s by NF023 or P-5-P (both 10(-5) M), subsequent co-addition of ARL 67156 (10(-4) M) significantly increased their magnitude. 6. The overflow of endogenous ATP evoked by field stimulation of sympathetic nerves (8 Hz, 1 min) was measured by HPLC and flurometric detection. ARL 67156 (10(-4) M) enhanced ATP overflow by almost 700% compared to control. 7. We conclude that for electrophysiological studies NF023 is preferable to other P2X receptor antagonists such as pyridoxalphosphate -6-azophenyl-2',4'-disulphonic acid (PPADS), suramin or P-5-P. Furthermore, breakdown of endogenous ATP by nucleoside triphosphatases is an important modulator of purinergic neurotransmission in the guinea-pig vas deferens.

Suramin-sensitive suppression of paired-pulse inhibition by adenine nucleotides in rat hippocampal slices

In order to assess the possible presence of presynaptic P2 receptors for nucleotides in the hippocampus, adenosine triphosphate and betagamma-methyleneATP have been examined on paired-pulse inhibition in rat hippocampal slices. Both compounds reproduced the effects of adenosine and reduced the amount of paired-pulse inhibition at an interpulse interval of 10 ms and increased the amount of facilitation at intervals of 20 and 50 ms. These effects were prevented by 8-phenyltheophylline and adenosine deaminase, indicating their mediation by adenosine. The effects were also reduced by suramin at 50 microM, suggesting the possible activation of P2 receptors. It is suggested that a population of P2 receptors may exist which promote the release of endogenous adenosine in the hippocampus.

Endogenous prostaglandin formation in the field-stimulated guinea-pig vas deferens: comparison of the inhibitory effects of indomethacin and NS-398

Prostaglandin (PG) E2 inhibited both phases of contraction produced by electrical field stimulation of the guinea-pig vas deferens. PGF2alpha and PGD2 were without effect on this preparation. Carbacyclin (a PGI2) analogue inhibited the first phase of contraction at higher concentrations, whereas U46619 (a thromboxane mimetic) potentiated both phases of contraction. As exogenous arachidonic acid inhibits both phases of contraction of the electrically field-stimulated guinea-pig vas deferens, it is likely that the arachidonic acid is converted to PGE2 in the vas deferens. Indomethacin, a non-specific inhibitor of prostaglandin H synthase (PGHS), attenuated the inhibitory actions of exogenous arachidonic acid when examined on the first phase of contraction. NS-398, a relatively specific inhibitor of PGHS-2, also prevented the inhibitory action of exogenous arachidonic acid. However, NS-398 was much less effective than indomethacin in this respect even though NS-398 and indomethacin inhibit PGHS-2 with similar potencies. Consequently, the findings suggest that exogenous arachidonic acid is converted to PGE2 in the guinea-pig vas deferens by the actions of PGHS-1 and, to a lesser extent, by PGHS-2.

Nonselective cationic currents activated by acetylcholine in swine tracheal smooth muscle cells

Membrane currents in isolated swine tracheal smooth muscle cells were investigated using a pipette solution containing BAPTA-Ca2+ buffer and Cs+ as the major cation. With a pipette solution containing 100 nM free Ca2+, acetylcholine (ACh; 1-100 µM), in a concentration-dependent manner, activated a current without inducing shortening of cells, although neither 1 mM histamine nor 1 µM leukotriene D4 activated the current (n = 7, n is the number of cells). The effect of 100 µM ACh was suppressed by pretreatment with 100 µM atropine (n = 6) or intracellular application of preactivated pertussis toxin at a concentration of 0.1 µg·mL-1 (n = 8). Genistein (0.1-100 µM), in a concentration-dependent manner, suppressed the activation of the inward current by 100 µM ACh, whereas it did not significantly suppress that of the outward current (n = 6-8). With a pipette solution containing 50 nM free Ca2+, outward current, but not inward current, was activated by 100 µM ACh (n = 10). When the pipette solution had free Ca2+ concentrations greater than 50 nM, the inward current together with the outward current was activated. The ratio between the amplitude of the inward and outward currents was significantly increased as the free Ca2+ concentration in the pipette solution increased. The steady-state activation curve of the ACh-activated current with the 50 nM free Ca2+ pipette solution was fitted by a single Boltzmann distribution (Vh = +69.8 mV, k = -11.9 mV, n = 10). The activation time constant became smaller as the membrane potential was more depolarized (164.3 ± 5.9 ms at +40 mV to 92.4 ± 6.3 ms at +120 mV, n = 10). The reversal potential was not significantly changed by reducing extracellular Cl- concentration to one-tenth of the control (n = 8), suggesting that the current is a nonselective cationic current. These results suggest that ACh activates an outward nonselective cationic current via pertussis toxin-sensitive G-protein(s) coupled with muscarinic receptors. Involvement of genistein-sensitive tyrosine kinase in the activation process of the current is unlikely.Key words: tracheal smooth muscle, nonselective cationic current, acetylcholine, Ca2+ dependency, genistein sensitivity.

Excitatory effect of P2X receptor activation on mesenteric afferent nerves in the anaesthetised rat

1. We examined the effects of P2X purinoceptor agonists and P2 purinoceptor antagonists on mesenteric afferent nerves supplying the jejunum in the pentobarbitone sodium-anaesthetised rat. 2. ATP (0. 01-10 mg kg-1, i.a.) and alpha,beta-methylene-ATP (1-30 microg kg-1, i.a.) each induced dose-dependent increases in afferent nerve discharge and intrajejunal pressure. The effect on afferent nerves comprised an early (< 2 s after administration) intense burst of activity followed by a later increase (> 2 s after administration), less pronounced in comparison, which coincided with elevated intrajejunal pressure. 3. Pyridoxalphosphate-6-azophenyl-2', 4'-disulphonic acid (20 mg kg-1, i.v.) and suramin (80 mg kg-1, i.v. ) each antagonised both the early and later increases in afferent nerve discharge elicited by alpha,beta-methylene-ATP (30 microg kg-1, i.a.). 4. Co-administration of omega-conotoxin MVIIA and omega-conotoxin SVIB (each at 25 microg kg-1, i.v.), or treatment with the selective 5-HT3 receptor antagonist alosetron (30 microg kg-1, i.v.), did not affect the rapid burst of afferent nerve activity elicited by alpha,beta-methylene-ATP (30 microg kg-1, i.a.). However, toxin treatment did attenuate the elevations in intrajejunal pressure and the corresponding later phases of evoked afferent discharge, while alosetron inhibited basal afferent nerve activity. 5. In summary, ATP and alpha,beta-methylene-ATP each evoke excitation of mesenteric afferent nerves in the anaesthetised rat. We propose that the early increase in mesenteric afferent nerve activity represents a direct effect on the nerve ending, mediated by P2X receptors, whereas the later increase reflects activation of mechanosensitive fibres secondary to elevated intrajejunal pressure.

Phosphorothioate oligodeoxynucleotides can selectively alter neuronal activity in the cochlea

A growing body of evidence indicates that extracellular adenosine triphosphate (ATP) may have a major role in cochlear function. Antagonists of ionotropic ATP receptors (P2X2) have significant effects on cochlear potentials and distortion product otoacoustic emissions (DPOAEs). We tested whether antisense oligodeoxynucleotides (ODNs) would mimic the functional deficiencies induced by the ATP antagonists through binding to P2X2 ATP receptor mRNA and thereby reduce the number of ATP receptors expressed in the membrane of the cells. Both a phosphorothioate ODN (S-ODN) antisense and a phosphodiester ODN (P-ODN) antisense to the P2X2 sequence and random sense ODNs containing 21 nucleotides were administered chronically (7 days) to the guinea pig cochlea via the perilymph compartment. Sound evoked cochlear potentials (cochlear microphonic; summating potential; compound action potential of the auditory nerve, CAP; latency of the first negative peak in the CAP, N1 latency) and DPOAEs were monitored to assess the effects of the ODNs. Results indicate that the phosphorothioate derivatives of both the antisense and random sense ODNs suppressed the CAP and prolonged the N1 latency with no significant effect on the other parameters. The P-ODNs had no effect. Since both the antisense and random sense S-ODNs had the same effect, we conclude that the S-ODNs affected neuronal function in a manner that did not involve binding to the ATP receptor mRNA.

Evidence that the ATP-induced increase in vasomotion of guinea-pig mesenteric lymphatics involves an endothelium-dependent release of thromboxane A2

1. Experiments were made to investigate mechanisms by which adenosine 5'-trisphosphate (ATP) enhanced vasomotion in mesenteric lymphatic vessels isolated from young guinea-pigs. 2. ATP (10-8 - 10-3 M) caused a concentration-dependent increase of perfusion-induced vasomotion with the endothelium mediating a fundamental role at low ATP concentrations (10-8 - 10-6 M). 3. The response to 10-6 M ATP showed tachyphylaxis when applied at intervals of 10 min but not at intervals of 20 or 30 min. 4. Suramin (10-4 M) or reactive blue 2 (3x10-5 M) but not PPADS (3x10-5 M) abolished the excitatory response to 10-6 M ATP confirming an involvement of P2 purinoceptors. 5. The excitatory response to 10-6 M ATP was abolished by treatment with either pertussis toxin (100 ng ml-1), antiflammin-1 (10-9 M), indomethacin (3x10-6 M) or SQ29548 (3x10-7 M), inhibitors of specific G proteins, phospholipase A2, cyclo-oxygenase and thromboxane A2 receptors respectively. 6. ATP simultaneously induced a suramin-sensitive inhibitory response, which was normally masked by the excitatory response. ATP-induced inhibition was mediated by endothelium-derived nitric oxide (EDNO) as the response was abolished by NG-nitro-L-arginine (L-NOARG; 10-4 M), an inhibitor of nitric oxide synthase. 7. We conclude that ATP modulates lymphatic vasomotion by endothelium-dependent and endothelium-independent mechanisms. One of these is a dominant excitation caused through endothelial P2 purinoceptors which because of an involvement of a pertussis toxin sensitive G-protein may be of the P2Y receptor subtype. Their stimulation increases synthesis of phospholipase A2 and production of thromboxane A2, an arachidonic acid metabolite which acts as an endothelium-derived excitatory factor.

Mechanisms of the potentiation by adenosine of adenosine triphosphate-induced calcium release in tracheal smooth-muscle cells

The effects of concomitant P1-receptor stimulation on peak intracellular Ca2+ release by extracellular adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP) and 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) were investigated in cultured airway smooth-muscle (ASM) cells. The results show that peak Ca2+ release to ATP is enhanced by preincubation with adenosine (ADO) and with the specific A3 receptor agonist 1-Deoxy-1-(6-([(3-iodophenyl)methyl] amino)-9H-purin-9-yl)-N-methyl-beta-D-ribofuranuronamide (1B-MECA). The response to 5-HT, a smooth-muscle contractile agonist, was also enhanced after preincubation with ADO. Further measurements showed that this enhancement of the response to ATP was dependent on extracellular calcium because it was abolished by the removal of Ca2+ from the extracellular fluid and by incubation with the calcium channel blocker nifedipine. In addition, there was no difference between the levels of total inositol phosphates measured in the presence of ATP alone or of ADO + ATP. AACOCF3, a specific blocker of phospholipase A2, decreased the peak Ca2+ response to ATP and abolished the enhanced response to ATP and 5-HT produced by ADO. We conclude that stimulation of P1 and P2 receptors in ASM cells activates not only phospholipase C but also phospholipase A2. The enhancement of ATP-induced and 5-HT-induced Ca2+ release is due to Ca2+ influx from the extracellular fluid through a Ca2+ channel presumably modulated by arachidonic acid. These data show that endogenous ADO may modulate airway hyperresponsiveness by enhancing the ASM response to contractile agonists.