Beta-adrenergic-receptor localization by light microscopic autoradiography

Ultrastructural localization of beta-adrenergic receptor-like immunoreactivity in the cortex and neostriatum of rat brain

We sought to quantitatively examine the processes containing beta-adrenergic receptor-like immunoreactivity (beta-AR-LI) in the cerebral cortex and neostriatum using a previously characterized rabbit antiserum to frog erythrocyte beta-ARs under optimized immunolabeling conditions. Quantitative assessments of the laminar distribution of beta-AR-LI in the cortex was achieved by computer-assisted image analysis of immunoautoradiographs and by quantitative electron microscopic analysis of peroxidase-antiperoxidase (PAP) labeling in aldehyde-fixed sections and unfixed synaptosomes. In the somatosensory and anterior cingulate cortical areas, light microscopy of aldehyde-fixed sections immunolabeled by the PAP method revealed small (0.5-1.0 micron) punctate processes in all layers. In the deeper layers, rims of immunoreactivity around the plasmalemma of a population of neuronal perikarya and processes were also observed. By immunoautoradiography, labeling was seen in distinct, laminar distributions resembling the reported autoradiographic patterns using radioligands. By electron microscopy, the immunoreactive profiles in all cortical layers were primarily thick and thin postsynaptic densities (PSDs), comprising 4% of all identifiable PSDs in fixed sections and 12% in unfixed synaptosomal preparations. Also labeled were saccules of smooth endoplasmic reticulum and pinocytotic vesicles in dendrites, glial processes and lightly myelinated axons. In the neostriatum, the density of autoradiographic immunoreactivity was equivalent to the heavily labeled laminae of the cerebral cortex. Immunoreactivity detectable by light microscopy included punctate processes and rims of perikarya, as was seen in the cerebral cortex. The PAP reaction was shown by electron microscopy to be localized to the cytoplasmic surface of plasmalemma of a few proximal dendrites, but was most prominently associated with PSDs of dendritic spines. Preadsorption of the antiserum with a partially purified beta-AR preparation abolished all detectable immunoreactivity. These results provide further support for the specificity of the antiserum for beta-ARs, and are the first quantitative ultrastructural evidence for association of beta-AR-LI with PSDs in the cerebral cortex. The neostriatum, whose major catecholaminergic innervation is dopaminergic, and not noradrenergic, is also confirmed to exhibit high levels of beta-AR-LI within subcellular structures analogous to those seen in the cerebral cortex.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)

Differential effects of norepinephrine on hippocampal complex-spike and theta-neurons

The central noradrenergic system has long been postulated to modulate learning and memory. A brain structure known to be important in these functions is the hippocampus. Since the hippocampus receives a noradrenergic projection from the locus coeruleus, knowledge of norepinephrine's actions in the hippocampus may help determine its role in learning and memory. In the present study, the effects of norepinephrine were examined on two hippocampal cell types: complex-spike and theta-neurons. In the hippocampus, there is good evidence that complex-spike cells are pyramidal neurons, while theta-neurons are interneurons. Extracellular action potentials from hippocampal neurons were recorded using multibarrel glass micropipettes. Drugs were locally applied using pressure micro-ejection. Norepinephrine inhibited the spontaneous firing of complex-spike cells, while theta-neurons were excited. The inhibitory response of complex-spike neurons was mediated by an alpha 1-receptor. However, selective agonists for the alpha 2- and beta-noradrenergic receptors excited the complex-spike cells. The noradrenergic-induced excitatory response of theta-neurons was also mediated by alpha 2- and beta-receptors. This study provides evidence that locally applied norepinephrine produces different responses on two types of hippocampal neurons. Furthermore, these differential responses arise primarily from the activation of distinct populations of noradrenergic receptors.

Chronic administration of sertraline, a selective serotonin uptake inhibitor, decreased the density of beta-adrenergic receptors in rat frontoparietal cortex

Sertraline, a potent and selective inhibitor of serotonin uptake, was chronically administered to laboratory rats. Using in vitro receptor autoradiographic techniques, we found that the binding of [3H]dihydroalprenolol ([3H]DHA) was reduced in cortex layers IV-VI. Results of a saturation experiment indicated that the reduction in cortex layer IV was due to a change in number but not affinity of beta-adrenergic receptors.

Norepinephrinergic reinnervation of cat occipital cortex following localized lesions with 6-hydroxydopamine

We studied biochemical and morphological changes in central catecholamine (CA) terminals in the kitten visual cortex following direct infusion with 4 mM 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) for a week. Two zones may be distinguished within the cortical area affected by 6-OHDA (a radius of approximately 10 mm). In the primary lesion zone (a radius of approximately 5 mm) near the center of the 6-OHDA infusion, excluding an area of non-specific damage left by cannulation (a radius of less than 1.5 mm), we found: (1) absence of fluorescent CA terminals by histochemistry; (2) very low desipramine-sensitive uptake of tritiated norepinephrine (NE) by cortical slices (desipramine-resistant NE uptake stayed high); (3) a 50% increase in beta-adrenoreceptor binding sites by densitometry of light microscopic autoradiograms; and (4) low levels (less than 20% of control) of endogenous NE and low to moderate levels (10-70%) of endogenous dopamine (DA). In the surrounding zone (about 5-10 mm from the infusion center), however, none of the above changes were observed, except for a moderate to substantial reduction (50-80% of control) in endogenous NE and a small (10-20%) reduction in endogenous DA. Within two weeks after the end of the cortical 6-OHDA infusion, the dimensions of the cortical area devoid of CA terminals became substantially smaller than those found earlier. Fluorescent CA terminals were seen virtually everywhere in the cortex by 4 weeks, including the scar left by placement of the infusion cannula. In 24 weeks CA terminals in the occipital cortex appeared close to normal in density as well as in fluorescence intensity. Biochemical assays also revealed the recovery trend of CA contents. A steady increase in the NE content was obtained in the surrounding zone, with the stronger trend at its periphery, eventually attaining full recovery in 23 weeks. The recovery was slow in the primary lesion zone, especially near the infusion center, though there was a continual increase in endogenous DA toward control even at the infusion center.

Autoradiographic evidence for beta-adrenergic receptors on capsaicin-sensitive primary afferent terminals in rat spinal cord

Specific [3H]dihydroalprenolol binding sites are enriched in the dorsal grey matter of rat spinal cord. Neonatal capsaicin treatment, known to cause a permanent loss of a population of primary afferent neurones, caused a significant loss of specific [3H]dihydroalprenolol binding sites from laminae of the dorsal horn. These results suggest that capsaicin-sensitive primary afferent terminals may bear presynaptic beta-adrenergic receptors.

The distribution of adrenergic receptors in cerebral blood vessels: an autoradiographic study

The first morphological evidence of the existence of adrenergic receptors (alpha 1, alpha 2 and beta) within the vascular walls of the central nervous system were presented using the in vitro receptor autoradiographic technique. In the rat pial arteries all three types of adrenergic receptors were demonstrated, whereas the human pial arteries failed to show significant autoradiographic grains of alpha 1 type of adrenergic receptors indicating a considerable inter-species difference in the distribution of adrenergic receptors. alpha 2 and beta receptors in human pial arteries were found not only in the arterial smooth muscle layers but also in the endothelial layers. This suggests a possibility that circulating sympathomimetic agents play some role in controlling the tone or permeability of vascular walls within the central nervous system. A distinct distribution of alpha 1 receptors in cortical layer IV where the vascular plexus was richest may suggest a relation of alpha 1 receptors and blood flow of brain parenchyma.

Neurotransmitters in the cerebral cortex

This article surveys the conventional neurotransmitters and modulatory neuropeptides that are found in the cerebral cortex and attempts to place them into the perspective of both intracortical circuitry and cortical disease. The distribution of these substances is related, where possible, to particular types of cortical neuron or to afferent or efferent fibers. Their physiological actions, where known, on cortical neurons are surveyed, and their potential roles in disease states such as the dementias, epilepsy, and stroke are assessed. Conventional transmitters that occur in afferent fibers to the cortex from brain-stem and basal forebrain sites are: serotonin, noradrenaline, dopamine, and acetylcholine. All of these except dopamine are distributed to all cortical areas: dopamine is distributed to frontal and cingulate areas only. The transmitter in thalamic afferent systems is unknown. Gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA) is the transmitter used by the majority of cortical interneurons and has a profound effect upon the shaping of receptive field properties. The vast majority of the known cortical peptides are found in GABAergic neurons, and the possibility exists that they may act as trophic substances for other neurons. Levels of certain neuropeptides decline in cases of dementia of cortical origin. Acetylcholine is the only other known transmitter of cortical neurons. It, too, is contained in neurons that also contain a neuropeptide. The transmitter(s) used by excitatory cortical interneurons and by the efferent pyramidal cells is unknown, but it may be glutamate or aspartate. It is possible that excitotoxins released in anoxic disease of the cortex may produce damage by acting on receptors for these or related transmitter agents.

Effect of chronic desipramine treatment on dihydroalprenolol, imipramine, and desipramine binding sites: a quantitative autoradiographic study in the rat brain

Desmethylimipramine (DMI) administered once daily for 10 days caused a significant decrease in beta-adrenergic receptor binding, as measured by quantitative autoradiography in discrete brain regions. The decrease was observed 72 h after the last injection throughout the cortex and in hippocampus but not in other regions, much richer in beta-receptors, such as the caudate, olfactory tubercle, superior colliculus, dorsomedial thalamus, substantia nigra, or pineal. The same paradigm did not affect imipramine (IMI) binding in the cortex or in regions with high concentrations of IMI binding sites. DMI binding was not decreased, either. Significant increases in DMI binding were observed in frontal cortex and in the ventral aspect of the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis. We conclude that a reduction in tricyclic binding is not a general phenomenon following chronic treatment with tricyclic antidepressants, and changes in binding, when they do occur, are not correlated with areas of high binding site density.

Autoradiographic localization of high affinity GABA, benzodiazepine, dopaminergic, adrenergic and muscarinic cholinergic receptors in the rat, monkey and human retina

High affinity gamma-aminobutyric acid, benzodiazepine, strychnine (glycine), dopamine, spirodecanone, alpha 1-adrenergic, alpha 2-adrenergic, beta-adrenergic and muscarinic cholinergic binding sites were localized by semiquantitative autoradiography in rat and, in some instances, in monkey and human retinae using [3H]muscimol, [3H]flunitrazepam, [3H]strychnine, [3H]spiperone, [3H]prazosin, [3H]para-aminoclonidine, [3H]dihydroalprenolol and [3H]quinuclidinyl benzylate, respectively. In nearly every case, the inner plexiform layer (IP) contained a high receptor density. The distribution of alpha 1 sites was unusual in that binding was concentrated in the outer plexiform layer (OP). Dopaminergic and, to a lesser extent, beta-adrenergic binding was diffusely distributed in the outer nuclear layer, the OP, the inner nuclear layer and the IP. The ganglion cell layer displayed significant benzodiazepine binding. The intraretinal distribution of pre- and postsynaptic markers of these neurotransmitters is discussed.

The laminar distributions and postnatal development of neurotransmitter and neuromodulator receptors in cat visual cortex

We review efforts to further understand the development and nature of sensory processing mechanisms in the cat visual cortex. In vitro autoradiographic and homogenate assay techniques have been employed to determine the laminar distribution and characteristics of various neurotransmitter and neuromodulator receptor populations during postnatal development. Each receptor population shows a distinct laminar-specific pattern of binding, which, in most cases, is age-dependent. Changes in receptor number and affinity are also observed during postnatal development. These findings indicate that major alterations in the basic chemical circuitry of cat visual cortex are a normal feature of postnatal maturation and may play a role in plasticity mechanisms.

Cellular localization of adrenergic receptors in rat and human brain

The localization of adrenergic receptors in the central nervous system was studied in two physiological conditions of noradrenergic denervation, a 6-hydroxydopamine-induced lesion of the locus coeruleus in newborn rat, and a pathological related degeneration of the locus coeruleus in man, Parkinson's disease. The localization of these receptors in the synapse has been studied with the technique of subcellular fractionation by differential centrifugation. In lesioned rats, an increase in the density of alpha 1 and beta 1 receptors was observed in several brain regions, in contrast to alpha 2 receptors which were not modified. Subcellular fractionation in lesioned rats showed an increase in alpha 1 and beta 1 receptors in synaptosomal fractions. Similar results were found in parkinsonian patients: alpha 1 receptors increased in the synaptosomal fraction; beta receptors increased in synaptosomal and microsomal fractions. These results suggest that alpha 1 and beta 1 receptors may be located on non-noradrenergic nerve terminals in mammalian brain. alpha 2 and beta 2 receptors may be situated on glial cells or neuronal elements unrelated to noradrenergic input.

Binding of [3H]neurotensin in human brain: properties and distribution

The binding of [3H]neurotensin to membranes from human brain at 0 degrees C was specific, saturable, and reversible. In the frontal cortex, the equilibrium dissociation constant (KD) for [3H]neurotensin determined from the ratio of rate constants (k-1/k1), saturation isotherms, and inhibition binding experiments was 0.80, 2.0, and 2.0 nM, respectively, and the maximum number of binding sites (Bmax) from the saturation isotherms and the competitive binding experiments was 2.4 and 2.2 pmol/g of tissue, respectively. Hill coefficients for binding were equal to 1, indicating the presence of single, noncooperative binding sites. Inhibition of specific binding of [3H]-neurotensin by several analogs of neurotensin showed that [Gln4]neurotensin and neurotensin(8-13) had the highest affinities for these binding sites in human frontal cortex, with each analog being approximately 13-fold more potent than neurotensin. In addition, these data showed that the carboxy-terminal portion of neurotensin played an important part in the binding of this neuropeptide in human brain, a result described for other species. Regional distribution of binding sites was different from that reported for animal brains. Of the 33 different regions investigated, the uncus and substantia nigra showed the highest specific binding of [3H]neurotensin, whereas such areas as the pineal body, medulla, and corpus callosum had few binding sites.

Autoradiographic localization of beta 1 and alpha 1-adrenoceptors in the midbrain and forebrain of normal and reeler mutant mice

The distribution of alpha-1 and beta-1 adrenoceptors has been studied in the midbrain and forebrain of normal and reeler mutant mice, using autoradiographic visualization of radioiodinated HEAT and ICYP, respectively. All cortical structures and nuclear groups of the murine forebrain and midbrain bind ICYP and HEAT. For each ligand, there is substantial regional variation in binding density and these variations tend to observe boundaries between nuclei or cortical regions or the stratification of cortical regions. Regional variations in binding densities are generally different for ICYP and HEAT. Binding sites for ICYP are distributed densely throughout all fields of the neocortex (particularly, layers I-III greater than VI) and paleocortex, the striatum, pallidum, substantia nigra and superficial strata of the superior colliculus. Dense concentrations of binding sites for HEAT in cortical structures, by contrast, are limited to frontal (all layers except IV) and anterior cingulate regions of the neocortex and, as with ICYP, the stratum lacunosum-moleculaire of the regio superior of the hippocampal formation. In subcortical structures, again in contrast to the pattern with ICYP, binding density is greatest in the principal nuclei of the dorsal thalamus and the septal nuclei. The regional binding patterns of both ICYP and HEAT in the reeler brain are identical to those in the normal animal. Differential laminar binding patterns within the neocortex are approximately inverted in the two genotypes, however. Thus, binding of ICYP is densest in an inner zone of the mutant, but in the outer 3 layers of the normal neocortex. Binding of this ligand is of relatively lower density in an outer zone of the mutant and in the inner 3 layers of the normal neocortex. Similar inversions are characteristic of the laminar binding patterns of HEAT in the frontal, primary sensory and associational cortical regions of the two genotypes where densest binding is encountered superficially in reeler but at deeper levels of the normal neocortex.

Autoradiographic study of beta 1-adrenergic receptor development in the mouse forebrain

The development of beta 1-adrenergic receptors has been studied in the mouse forebrain from embryonic day 14 (E14) to adulthood, using autoradiographic visualization of [125I]iodocyanopindolol (ICYP) binding sites. From E14, ICYP binding sites are detected in moderate amounts in the striatum and basal forebrain and in very low concentration in the cortical plate. At E17, binding sites have increased in number in the deep layers of the embryonic cortex and extend over the whole thickness of the cortical ribbon at birth. On postnatal day 4 (P4), ICYP binding sites are more abundant in the superficial than in the inner cortex. By P10 the adult pattern of ICYP binding site distribution is achieved, namely: a high concentration in ventral pallidum, striatum and cortical layers I, II and III, a moderate concentration in layers V and VI and a lower density in septal areas and in cortical layer IV. It is well established that norepinephrine fibers arrive in the embryonic cortex early in development. The present results show that the development of norepinephrine fiber and beta 1 receptor systems are coincident in the mouse.

Quantitative autoradiography of 125I-[Sar1, Ile8]-angiotensin II binding in the brain of spontaneously hypertensive rats

The brain contains its own angiotensin II (AII) system. To better understand the role of central AII in cardiovascular regulation, we used 125I-[Sar1, Ile8]-AII (125I-SI-AII), radioactive AII antagonist, to autoradiographically localize putative AII receptor binding in many parts of the central nervous system of the spontaneously hypertensive (SHR) and normotensive Wistar-Kyoto (WKY) rats. With 125I-SI-AII binding on brain membrane preparations. Scatchard analysis indicated that Kd values were from 0.10 +/- 0.04 nM to 0.13 +/- 0.05 nM, whereas Bmax values (femtomol/mg protein) were found to be from 6.95 +/- 1.60 to 15.52 +/- 4.99 among brain regions studied. Various SI-AII receptor binding activities among brain regions revealed in this study were therefore most likely due to differences in AII receptor density with high affinity binding of 125I-AII. Using 125I-SI-AII, specific binding for SI-AII was found in the nucleus tractus solitarius (NTS), paraventricular hypothalamic nucleus (PVN), subfornical organ (SFO), suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN), area postrema, the dorsal motor nucleus of the vagus (DMX), and the nucleus of spinal tract of the trigeminal system (NSV). With quantitative receptor autoradiography in conjunction with radioactive standards, we have observed that the NTS possesses the highest SI-AII binding, followed by the PVN, SFO, NTS, DMX, and NSV. No significant differences were observed between the SHR and WKY rats in the SI-AII binding within the SFO, PVN and NTS. However, SHR at early hypertensive (7 weeks) and established hypertensive (16 weeks) stages contained significantly higher SI-AII bindings in the NSV, as compared to age-matched WKY rats.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Circadian rhythms in neurotransmitter receptors in discrete rat brain regions

Circadian rhythms were measured in alpha 1-, alpha 2- and beta-adrenergic, acetylcholine muscarinic (ACh), and benzodiazepine (BDZ) receptor binding in small regions of rat brain. Rhythms in alpha 1-receptor binding were measured in olfactory bulb, frontal, cingulate, piriform, parietal, temporal and occipital cortex, hypothalamus, hippocampus, pons-medulla, caudate-putamen and thalamus-septum. No rhythm was found in cerebellum. Rhythms in alpha 2-receptor binding were measured in frontal, parietal and temporal cortex, and pons-medulla. No rhythm was found in cingulate, piriform or occipital cortex, or hypothalamus. Rhythms in binding to beta-receptors were measured in olfactory bulb, piriform, insular, parietal and temporal cortex, hypothalamus and cerebellum. No rhythms were found in frontal, entorhinal, cingulate, or occipital cortex, hippocampus, caudate-putamen, or pons-medulla. Rhythms in ACh receptor binding were measured in olfactory bulb, parietal cortex and caudate-putamen. No rhythms were found in frontal or occipital cortex, nucleus accumbens, hippocampus, thalamus-septum, pons-medulla or cerebellum. Rhythms in BDZ receptor binding were measured in olfactory bulb, olfactory and occipital cortex, olfactory tubercle, nucleus accumbens, amygdala, caudate-putamen, hippocampus and cerebellum. No rhythms were found in parietal cortex, pons-medulla or thalamus-septum. The 24-hr mean binding to receptors varied between 3- and 10-fold, the highest in cortex and the lowest, usually, in cerebellum. The piriform cortex was particularly high in alpha 1- and alpha 2-adrenergic receptors; the nucleus accumbens and caudate, in ACh receptors; and the amygdala, in BDZ receptors. Most adrenergic and ACh receptor rhythms peaked in subjective night (the period when lights were off under L:D conditions), whereas most BDZ receptor rhythms peaked in subjective day (the time lights were on in L:D). Perhaps in the rat, a nocturnal animal, the adrenergic and ACh receptors mediate activity and the functions that accompany it, and the BDZ receptors mediate rest, and with it, sleep.

Beta-adrenoceptor subtypes in the human brain: autoradiographic localization

The distribution and characteristics of beta-adrenoceptors in postmortem human brain was studied using quantitative autoradiographic techniques. 125I-Cyanopindolol was used as a ligand. High densities of beta-adrenoceptors were found in the caudate, putamen, different cortical areas and layers and the hippocampal formation. Low densities were present in other areas such as the thalamus, hypothalamus, midbrain and cerebellar cortex. Specific beta 1 and beta 2 antagonists were used to visualize and quantify separately the two subtypes of beta-adrenoceptors. Computer analysis of the competition curves obtained revealed that the putamen was enriched in beta 1 sites while the cerebellum contained predominantly beta 2 adrenoceptors. The regional distribution of beta-adrenoceptor subtypes was found to be similar to that seen in the rat brain.

Localization of beta 1- and beta 2-adrenergic receptors in rat kidney by autoradiography

beta-Adrenergic receptor subtypes were localized and differentiated in rat kidney slices by in vitro autoradiography using the nonselective beta-antagonist [125I]iodocyanopindolol in the presence of the selective agents betaxolol (beta 1) and zinterol (beta 2). [125I]Iodocyanopindolol binding to kidney sections in the presence of these agents could be differentiated into high- and low-affinity components as predicted by the subtype selectivity of the compounds. Autoradiography revealed that: beta-adrenergic receptors were highly concentrated within the renal cortex, especially in glomeruli and juxtaglomerular granule cells, and to tubular sites in the cortex and medulla; [125I]iodocyanopindolol labeling of the juxtaglomeruluar granule cells was abolished at lower concentrations (10(-8) M) of betaxolol than was the labeling of glomeruli (10(-6)--10(-4) M); and zinterol had little effect on labeling of juxtaglomerular granule cells and glomeruli unless high concentrations were used, whereas the tubular labeling in medulla was much more sensitive to incubation with zinterol. These results indicate that beta 1- and beta 2-adrenergic receptor subtypes are differentially distributed within the kidney: beta 1, predominantly contained in juxtaglomerular granule cells and glomeruli, and beta 2, predominantly in medullary tubules. In vitro autoradiography provides a useful means to examine different receptor populations in discrete tissue areas.

Laminar distribution of alpha 1- and beta 1-adrenoceptors in ferret visual cortex

The distribution of alpha 1- and beta 1-adrenoceptors has been examined in the ferret visual cortex (area 17), with an autoradiographic procedure using iodine-125 labeled hydroxy-iodophenyl-ethylaminomethyl-tetralone (HEAT) and iodocyanopindolol (ICYP), respectively. The density of ligand binding with ICYP, known to have selective affinity for beta-receptors, was heavy over layers I-III, very low over layer IV, and medium over V and VI. In contrast, binding sites for HEAT, a new ligand selective for alpha-receptors, were diffusely distributed, although preferentially concentrated in layer IV and the upper layers. The distinct laminar distribution of these two receptor types may imply two cortical channels for norepinephrine influence; alpha 1-receptors may be preferentially associated with enhancement of excitatory inputs to layer IV; beta 1-receptors, in contrast, with enhancement of inhibitory responses outside layer IV.

Anatomy of brain alpha 1-adrenergic receptors: in vitro autoradiography with [125I]-heat

Much useful information on the localization of alpha 1-adrenergic binding sites has been gained by using tritiated radioligands for in vitro autoradiography. However, the iodinated alpha 1-adrenergic antagonist HEAT [( 2-beta (4-hydroxyphenyl)-ethylaminomethyl)-tetralone], BE 2254), a radioligand with high affinity and specificity, provides autoradiographs with a higher signal to noise ratio. This has allowed us to describe the anatomy of these binding sites in much greater detail than previously possible. Regions showing the highest levels of binding include external plexiform layer of the olfactory bulb, layers Va and Vc of frontoparietal cortex, lateral and central amygdaloid nuclei, thalamus, and inferior olive. Other regions were generally less intensely labeled, with the least evidence of labeling in white matter, such as corpus callosum. Some regions (e.g., hippocampus) had only moderate labeling, but the binding appeared in a discrete pattern that reflected the functional organization of the structure. Although the [125I]-HEAT binding sites were distributed in a pattern similar to that previously reported for [3H]-WB 4101 and [3H]-prazosin, the anatomical detail seen with the iodinated ligand is greater. As a result, an association of alpha 1-adrenergic antagonist binding sites with specific layers in the cortex and with some catecholamine-containing nuclei in the brainstem, such as the locus coeruleus, have been seen for the first time.

Combined autoradiographic-immunocytochemical analysis of opioid receptors and opioid peptide neuronal systems in brain

Using adjacent section autoradiography-immunocytochemistry, the distribution of [3H]naloxone binding sites was studied in relation to neuronal systems containing [Leu]enkephalin, dynorphin A, or beta-endorphin immunoreactivity in rat brain. Brain sections from formaldehyde-perfused rats show robust specific binding of [3H]naloxone, the pharmacological (mu-like) properties of which appear unaltered. In contrast, specific binding of the delta ligand [3H]D-Ala2,D-Leu5-enkephalin was virtually totally eliminated as a result of formaldehyde perfusion. Using adjacent section analysis, we have noted associations between [3H]naloxone binding sites and one, two, or all three opioid systems in different brain regions; however, in some areas, no apparent relationship could be observed. Within regions, the relationship was complex; for example, in caudate-putamen, patches of opioid receptors did not correspond to the distribution of enkephalin immunoreactivity, but there was a correspondence between subcallosal streaks of binding sites and enkephalin. The complexity of the association between [3H]naloxone binding sites and the multiple opioid systems, and previous reports of colocalization of mu and kappa receptors in rat brain, are inconsistent with a simple-one-to-one relationship between a given opioid precursor and opioid receptor subtype. Instead, since differential processing of the three precursors gives rise to peptides of varying receptor subtype potencies and selectivities, the multiple peptide-receptor relationships may point to a key role of post-translational processing in determining the physiological consequences of opioid neurotransmission.

Short- and long-term influence of beta-adrenergic antagonists after acute myocardial infarction

After coronary arterial occlusion, catecholamines are released from storage depots in the left ventricle and injured myocardial cells are exposed to relatively high concentrations of catecholamines during the evolutionary period in which cell injury is becoming progressively more severe. In addition, in experimental animal models, there is a substantial increase in beta-adrenergic receptor density without any alteration in affinity within 1 hour of permanent coronary arterial occlusion. Recent data suggest that alpha-adrenergic receptor density increases within 30 to 60 minutes after coronary arterial occlusion in experimental animal models. The administration of catecholamines during the early phases of evolving myocardial injury can result in heightened adrenergic biochemical responses in severely injured compared with normally perfused tissue in the hearts of experimental animals. Thus, there is adequate rationale for anticipating that beta-adrenergic antagonists would protect ischemic myocardium and potentially reduce the incidence of life-threatening arrhythmias in individuals with evolving acute myocardial infarction (AMI). Studies in animal models demonstrate that the administration of beta-adrenergic antagonists in the first few minutes after coronary artery occlusion may reduce the ultimate extent of myocardial necrosis. Clinical data from several different trials in which beta-adrenergic antagonists were administered to (1) protect ischemic myocardium and preserve ventricular function and (2) reduce the severity of serious ventricular arrhythmias in patients with AMI are reviewed. The effects of longer-term administration of beta-adrenergic antagonists in patients after AMI in prolonging life and reducing risk of reinfarction are presented.

Identification of mechanisms involved in the modulation of release of noradrenaline in the hippocampus of the rabbit in vitro

The modulation of the electrically-evoked release of noradrenaline by various possible neurotransmitters or neuromodulators in the hippocampus was studied in the dorsal part of the hippocampus of the rabbit. Slices of this tissue were preincubated with [3H]noradrenaline and superfused with a medium containing 30 microM cocaine. The evoked overflow of tritium was calcium-dependent, tetrodotoxin-sensitive and subject to modulation by presynaptic alpha 2-autoreceptors. Drugs with affinity for beta-adrenoceptors (up to 1 microM), muscarinic (up to 10 microM), nicotinic (up to 100 microM), GABA- (up to 1000 microM), glutamate- (up to 100 microM) and prostaglandin-receptors (up to 1 microM) did not show any modulatory influence on the evoked release of noradrenaline. In contrast, morphine (1 microM) and fentanyl (1 microM) significantly reduced the evoked overflow; this effect was antagonized by naloxone (10 microM), which, given alone, was ineffective. Apomorphine (1 microM) reduced the release of noradrenaline in the absence, and increased it in the presence, of 0.1 microM haloperidol; haloperidol (0.1 microM), given alone was ineffective. From these results it is concluded that, in addition to the well-known alpha 2-autoreceptor mechanism, presynaptic opiate-, D2- and probably D1-receptors might modulate the release of noradrenaline in the hippocampus.

Reserpine and the role of axonal transport in the independent regulation of pre- and postsynaptic beta-adrenoreceptors

The response of pre- and postsynaptic beta-adrenoreceptors to depletion of brain norepinephrine (NE) with reserpine in the rat was characterized by studying the anterograde and retrograde axonal transport of presynaptic receptors and the receptor binding changes induced in postsynaptic frontal cortex cells. Anterograde transport was shown to occur by the linear accumulation of [3H]dihydroalprenolol ([3H]DHA) binding sites (by in vitro binding assay) proximal to a 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) lesion placed in the ascending pathway of the locus coeruleus and was blocked by more proximal lesions in the pathway. Retrograde transport was demonstrated by the accumulation of [125I]iodocyanopindolol binding distal to similar lesions. Autoradiograms from sections of 6-OHDA injected brains were produced with [3H]DHA binding in the presence of the beta 2-agonist, zinterol, and suggested that the anterograde accumulation of binding sites was primarily of the beta 1-subtype. A single injection of reserpine (5 mg/kg, i.p.) produced a long lasting (6-8 weeks), biphasic decrease in cortical NE levels with nadirs and 4 and 28 days (10% and 45% of control, respectively). Frontal cortex binding of [3H]DHA increased to a maximum at 7-14 days and again at 28 days post-reserpine (230% and 167% of control, respectively). These increases were not prevented by the destruction of presynaptic noradrenergic nerve terminals with intraventricular administration of 6-OHDA 1 day prior to sacrifice and therefore appeared to take place solely in postsynaptic cells. Presynaptic, anterograde axonal transport of beta-receptors was completely blocked from 4-14 days post-reserpine, increased to 323% of control at 21 days, was blocked again at 6 weeks and returned to control by 8 weeks. Retrograde transport of beta-receptors followed a similar pattern suggesting that the presynaptic alterations in beta-receptors in noradrenergic neurons of the locus coeruleus take place independently from those in postsynaptic cortical beta-receptors as a response to NE depletion by reserpine.

Specific binding of tritiated neurotensin to rat brain membranes: characterization and regional distribution

The characteristics of [3H]neurotensin binding were studied using membranes prepared from the rat brain. Binding of [3H]neurotensin was found to be specific, saturable and reversible. Under the conditions of the assay non-specific binding represented less than 20% of the total binding at a radioligand concentration of 2 nM. The specific [3H]neurotensin binding increased linearly with protein concentration and was dependent on the pH and the temperature of the incubation medium. At 25 degrees C equilibrium was reached rapidly and the association kinetics appeared to be monophasic. The dissociation was not monophasic and it could be resolved into two distinct components. Scatchard analysis of the saturation data indicated a single population of binding sites with a density of 432 fmol/mg protein and an equilibrium dissociation constant of 2.85 nM. A Hill transformation of the competitive inhibition of specific [3H]neurotensin binding by increasing concentrations of unlabelled peptide yielded a slope not significantly different from unity. Neurotensin 1-13 and various neurotensin analogues were tested for their ability to compete with [3H]neurotensin for its binding site. Neurotensin 1-13, neurotensin 8-13 and the amphibian skin peptide xenopsin were equipotent and strongly inhibited the specific binding of [3H]neurotensin. Neurotensin 9-13 and the chicken intestinal peptide Lys8,Asn9-neurotensin 8-13 were weakly active, whereas neurotensin 10-13 and the amino-terminal fragments neurotensin 1-6, neurotensin 1-8 and neurotensin 1-11 were inactive. Physiological concentrations of sodium chloride inhibited specific [3H]neurotensin binding, whereas divalent cations and guanyl nucleotides did not produce a significant change in either the equilibrium dissociation constant or the total number of binding sites. There was no apparent correlation between the content of neurotensin-like immunoreactivity in the rat brain and the density of [3H]neurotensin binding sites in the various brain regions. The highest density of binding sites was found in the hypothalamus and the frontal cortex, intermediate levels in striatum, thalamus, midbrain, hippocampus and olfactory bulb, and low levels in cerebellum and pons-medulla oblongata. In general, there was less variation between different brain regions in the number of [3H]neurotensin binding sites than in the content of neurotensin-like immunoreactivity. The characteristics of this binding assay are consistent with [3H]neurotensin binding to a physiological receptor.

Treatment of acute focal cerebral ischemia with propranolol

Propranolol's potential as a protective agent against tissue injury has been noted in experimental myocardial, renal and early acute focal cerebral ischemia. The purpose of the present investigation was to study further the effects of racemic (d,l) propranolol on blood-brain barrier permeability, morphological changes, cortical electrical activity, and regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) in experimental focal cerebral ischemia. Thirty adult cats, anesthetized with nitrous oxide, underwent 6 hours of right middle cerebral artery (MCA) occlusion. Fifteen cats were untreated. Fifteen cats were given a continuous infusion of racemic propranolol (1 mg/kg/hr) for 7 hours beginning 1 hour before MCA occlusion and a 4 mg/kg bolus immediately before occlusion, both directly into the right carotid artery. Right Sylvian rCBF did not significantly differ in the treated and untreated groups. Carbon filling defects and vital dye (i.e., Evans blue and fluorescein) extravasation were less severe in the propranolol treated animals. Light microscopic findings demonstrated no difference in infarct size between the two groups. The findings suggest that at doses given, racemic propranolol does not exert a protective effect upon cerebral tissue subjected to 6 hours of incomplete ischemia.

Norepinephrine elicits both excitatory and inhibitory responses from Purkinje cells in the in vitro rat cerebellar slice

Superfusion of Purkinje neurons in the in vitro rat cerebellar slice with norepinephrine caused increases and decreases of spontaneous Purkinje cell firing. Excitations were evoked by low concentrations of norepinephrine (0.5-10 microM) and by the beta receptor agonist isoproterenol (0.1-5 microM). These excitations were reduced by timolol (1-2 microM), a beta receptor antagonist. Perfusion with higher concentrations of norepinephrine (greater than 16 microM), caused a depression of Purkinje neuron spontaneous activity. This inhibitory response was blocked by the alpha receptor antagonist phentolamine. The alpha 1 selective agonist phenylephrine had no effect on spontaneous activity at concentrations up to 100 microM, but the alpha 2 selective agonist clonidine (1-50 microM) elicited decreases in firing rate. These responses appeared to be due to a direct action on Purkinje cells, because neither the excitation nor the depression of Purkinje neuron activity elicited by norepinephrine was substantially altered when tested in a medium which substantially blocked synaptic transmission within the slice. Under these in vitro conditions, norepinephrine appears to increase the firing rate of Purkinje neurons via an interaction with beta adrenergic receptors, while norepinephrine induced depressions may be linked to alpha adrenergic receptor interactions; both receptors appear to be located directly on the Purkinje neurons.

Quantitative autoradiography of beta 1- and beta 2-adrenergic receptors in rat brain

We have used quantitative autoradiography to localize in rat brain beta 1- and beta 2-adrenergic receptors. These receptors were labeled in vitro with 125I-labeled pindolol, an antagonist of beta-adrenergic receptors that binds nonselectively to both beta 1 and beta 2 subtypes. The selective inhibition of 125I-labeled pindolol binding with specific antagonists of beta 1 and beta 2 receptors allowed the visualization of beta-adrenergic receptor subtypes. High levels of beta 1 receptors were observed in the cingulate cortex, layers I and II of the cerebral cortex, the hippocampus, the Islands of Calleja, and the gelatinosus, mediodorsal, and ventral nuclei of the thalamus. High levels of beta 2 receptors were found in the molecular layer of the cerebellum, over pia mater, and in the central, paraventricular, and caudal lateral posterior thalamic nuclei. Approximately equal levels of beta 1 and beta 2 receptors occurred in the substantia nigra, the olfactory tubercle, layer IV of the cerebral cortex, the medial preoptic nucleus, and all nuclei of the medulla. The pronounced differences in the ratio of beta 1 to beta 2 receptors among brain regions suggests that the subtypes of beta-adrenergic receptors may play different roles in neuronal function.

Inverse relationship between neurotensin receptors and neurotensin-like immunoreactivity in cat striatum

The adult corpus striatum in mammals is divided into distinct histochemical compartments. If the cat caudate nucleus is stained for acetylcholinesterase a number of macroscopically visible zones appear that have lower acetylcholinesterase activity than the surrounding tissue. These patches, called 'striosomes', correspond to regions of high [Met]-enkephalin-like immunoreactivity and dense opiate receptor binding and are related to the uneven distribution of striatal efferent neurones and cortical afferent terminations. One of the highest concentrations of neurotensin-like immunoreactivity is in the striatum and the immunoreactive material co-elutes with synthetic neurotensin on gel chromatography. Recently, we have found that neurotensin-like immunoreactivity in the cat caudate nucleus coincides with the striosomes. We have now localized neurotensin receptors in the cat caudate nucleus by autoradiography and found low density in the neurotensin-rich striosomes and a high density in the neurotensin-poor surrounding tissue.

Autoradiographic characterization of beta adrenergic receptors in coronary blood vessels and myocytes in normal and ischemic myocardium of the canine heart

This light microscopic autoradiographic study was performed to test the hypotheses that (a) the density of beta adrenergic receptors (BAR) may differ in various components of the heart and (b) BAR in certain components of the heart may exhibit a selective response to pharmacologic and pathological stimuli. Blocks of canine left ventricle were frozen and tissue sections cut and incubated in (-)[3H]dihydroalprenolol (DHA) to label the BAR. For total and nonspecific binding, serial sections were incubated with and without 10(-5) M (+/-)propranolol. Scintillation spectrometry of sections demonstrated rapid binding, saturability, stereospecificity, a dissociation constant (KD) of 3.2 +/- 0.5 nM (SD) (n = 3), and a maximal binding of 31.3 +/- 3.1 fmol/mg of tissue protein. Isoproterenol was 12.5 times more effective than norepinephrine in displacing DHA. Sections incubated with 10(-5) - 10(-8) M metoprolol, a beta one selective antagonist, demonstrated a KD of 0.7 X 10(-6) M. For autoradiography, emulsion-coated coverslips were attached to the slides. After exposure, the slides were developed and stained, and grain density quantified. Specific BAR binding (n = 4 dogs) was 1,047 +/- 131 (SEM) grains/10(-2) mm2 for myocardial arterioles, 219 +/- 30 for myocardial arteries, 31 +/- 12 for the proximal left anterior descending coronary artery (LAD), and 231 +/- 34 for cardiac myocytes. Specific binding in the presence of 10(-5) M metoprolol was reduced approximately 75% for both arterioles and myocytes. However, at 10(-6) M metoprolol, the percent reduction in specific DHA binding was greater for myocytes (50%) than for arterioles (0%), and at 10(-7) M metoprolol, the percent reduction in specific DHA binding was 17% for myocytes with no reduction over arterioles. After 1 h of LAD occlusion, a selective increase (18%) in BAR density occurred over cardiac myocytes, but not over blood vessels in the ischemic myocardium. Thus, (a) specific BAR binding was five times greater in arterioles than in small arteries and myocardium and 34 times greater than in the proximal LAD; (b) BAR of myocytes were more sensitive than those of arterioles to displacement by the beta one selective antagonist, metoprolol; and (c) a selective increase in BAR occurs in cardiac myocytes but not in blood vessels after 1 h of ischemia in this experimental model.

Mapping of beta-adrenergic receptors in rat lung: effect of isoproterenol

beta-Adrenergic receptors were mapped in the rat lung using a light microscopic technique that identifies binding sites for 3H-labeled dihydroalprenolol in intact slide-mounted tissue sections, which were also used for biochemical analysis of ligand binding. Grain density measurements were combined with morphometric data. These results indicate that, although over 97% of the specific binding is to cells of alveolar walls, beta-adrenergic receptors are present and can be quantified in tissues that represent a small fraction of total lung mass, such as bronchial epithelium and smooth muscle of bronchial walls and pulmonary vessels. Repeated administration of isoproterenol decreased the receptor number, as determined biochemically and from grain density measurements, in all anatomic regions studied, but did not alter the distribution of binding.

Beta-adrenergic and muscarinic cholinergic receptors: overlap in their genetic determination

Significant positive correlation between the ligand binding values for beta-adrenergic receptors and those for muscarinic cholinergic receptors was found in five inbred strains of mice (r = 0.84) and in different vertebrate species (r = 0.99). Comparative analysis of analogous receptor studies done on various brain regions in other laboratories revealed high positive correlation between regional binding values for these two receptors. In conjunction with the work presented here, an overlap in the genetic determination of beta-adrenergic and muscarinic cholinergic receptors is suggested.

Antibodies to the beta-adrenergic receptor: attenuation of catecholamine-sensitive adenylate cyclase and demonstration of postsynaptic receptor localization in brain

Antibodies to the beta 2-adrenergic receptor of frog erythrocytes have been raised in rabbits by immunization with purified receptor preparations. Binding of the antibodies to the receptors was demonstrated by immunoprecipitation and by the altered mobility of the antibody-bound receptors on steric-exclusion HPLC columns. As assessed by a radioimmunoassay developed with the antibody, beta 2-adrenergic receptors from several sources showed various degrees of immunological crossreactivity whereas several beta 1-adrenergic receptors did not crossreact. The antibody appeared to not bind at the ligand binding site of the receptor and did not perturb antagonist radioligand binding to the receptor. Nonetheless, the antibodies selectively attenuated catecholamine-stimulated adenylate cyclase. This suggests that the antibodies recognize and bind to domains of the receptor other than the binding site and that may be involved in coupling to other components of the adenylate cyclase system. Immunocytochemical techniques were used with the antibodies to delineate a postsynaptic localization of beta-adrenergic receptors in rat and frog brain. Thus, these anti-beta-adrenergic receptor antibodies provide a useful reagent for probing beta-adrenergic receptor structure, function, and localization.

Evidence for the existence of alpha- and beta-adrenoceptors on neurones and glial cells of cultured rat central nervous system--an autoradiographic study

The cellular localization of the binding of radioactive noradrenaline and alpha- and beta-adrenoceptor antagonists was studied in organotypic cultures of rat cerebellum, brain stem and spinal cord using autoradiography. In cerebellar cultures, many neurones, which appeared to be Purkinje cells, were labelled by [3H]noradrenaline and by the beta-antagonists [3H]dihydroalprenolol and [3H]carazolol, whereas no binding of the alpha-antagonists [3H]prazosin and [3H]rauwolscine was detected. In cultures of spinal cord and brain stem, [3H]noradrenaline and the beta-antagonists were bound to many large neurones. Binding of [3H] alpha-antagonists was observed to a small number of brain stem and spinal neurones, the labelling being much weaker than that produced by the [3H] beta-antagonists. The antidepressant [3H]desmethylimipramine was bound to many neurones and glial cells in cerebellar, brain stem and spinal cord cultures. Glial cells also possessed binding sites for [3H]noradrenaline and alpha- and beta-adrenoceptor antagonists, findings that are consistent with recent electrophysiological observations which indicate the existence of alpha- and beta-adrenoceptors on cultured astrocytes.

Single cell responses in cat visual cortex to visual stimulation during iontophoresis of noradrenaline

We studied how iontophoresis of noradrenaline (NA) changes responsiveness of individual cells in the feline visual cortex when their visual receptive fields are stimulated with the appropriate visual stimulus. We found three populations of cortical cells which either increased, decreased or did not change their visual responsiveness during NA iontophoresis. About equal numbers of cells belonged to each of these three groups. In the majority of such cells that changed visual responsiveness during NA iontophoresis and that had measureable amounts of spontaneous activity, the ratio of visually evoked to spontaneous activity (signal-to-noise ratio) improved during NA iontophoresis. This improvement was independent of the direction of changes in the response magnitude to visual stimulation. There was a differential effect of NA on simple and complex visual cortical cells: Although most simple cells (86%) clearly changed their responsiveness during NA iontophoresis, the effects were seen in only one-third of complex cells. Furthermore, the effects on complex cells were usually weak compared to those typically seen in simple cells. In some cases the effects of NA were more complicated than an overall enhancement of suppression of the cortical cell's responses to visual stimulation. The possible dual role of NA in the visual cortex is briefly discussed.

Changes in noradrenergic neuroendocrine responses following repeated seizures and the mechanism of action of ECT

To investigate the mechanism of action of ECT in depression, functional changes in central noradrenergic systems, resulting from a series of electroshock- or photic-induced seizures have been evaluated in baboons. The plasma growth hormone (GH) response to IV infusion of an alpha 2-noradrenergic agonist clonidine (0.02 mg/kg) or a beta 2-adrenergic antagonist, ICI 118,551 (0.02 mg/kg) has been measured before, during and up to 15 days after the series of seizures. Electroshock (ECS) or sham ECS was given with standard clinical premedication (atropine, methohexital, suxamethonium and oxygen ventilation) seven times over 15 days. Plasma GH responses were unchanged 24 h after one or seven ECS. An enhanced GH response occurred 7 and 15 days after the seventh ECS. Sham ECS (seven times in 15 days) produced no changes in GH response to clonidine. The plasma GH response to ICI 118,551 was apparently decreased 1 and 7 days after the seventh ECS. Photic seizures were induced seven times in 15 days in baboons which were primed with a subconvulsant dose of D,L-allylglycine (180 mg/kg), but were otherwise drug-free. Plasma GH responses to clonidine were enhanced 1 and 7 days after the seventh photically induced seizure. It is concluded that in the primate there is an enhancement of a central alpha 2-noradrenergic response during 1-15 days after a sequence of generalised seizures. The time course of this enhancement appears to be influenced by drugs given directly before the seizures.

6 -Hydroxydopamine decreases benzodiazepine but not GABA receptor binding in rat cerebellum

The noradrenergic innervation to the cerebellum was lesioned by intracerebroventricular 6-hydroxydopamine and the effects on GABA and benzodiazepine receptors followed by radiolabelling experiments. This lesion produced a 20% decrease in benzodiazepine receptor labelling in the cerebellum with no change in the labelling of GABA receptors. This provides further evidence for a lack of identity between the GABA and benzodiazepine receptors.

High affinity GABA receptors-autoradiographic localization

The distribution of the high affinity gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptor labeled by [3H]muscimol, has been studied in the rat brain by light microscopic autoradiography. Receptors in slide-mounted tissue sections were labeled in vitro with [3H]muscimol. Most of the gray matter areas presented grain densities significantly higher than background or white matter areas. Wide variations in receptor densities were found between different brain areas and nuclei. Areas with very high grain densities are the granule cell layer of the cerebellum, external plexiform layer of the olfactory bulb and nuclei of the thalamus, such as the ventral nucleus, lateral nucleus and dorsal geniculate body. The molecular layer of the hippocampus and the external (I-IV) layers of the cortex are also rich in GABA receptors. The basal ganglia have moderate concentrations of receptors, while the pons, medulla and brainstem have only low concentrations of autoradiographic grains. These distributions are discussed in correlation with the known distribution of GABAergic terminals and the presence of inhibitory GABAergic mechanisms.

Neurotensin receptor localization by light microscopic autoradiography in rat brain

Neurotensin is a putative peptide neurotransmitter in the mammalian brain. The light microscopic localization of the neurotensin receptor has been carried out by the autoradiographic localization of [3H]neurotensin binding sites in slide-mounted tissue sections. Large variations in receptor distribution were found, even in small areas. In many regions, the distribution of the receptor paralleled that of the immunoreactive neurotensin found in other studies. The results suggest sites of neurotensin's action in producing various physiological effects such as hypothermia and analgesia.