20-HETE contributes to the acute fall in cerebral blood flow after subarachnoid hemorrhage in the rat

20-HETE increases renal sympathetic nerve activity via activation of chemically and mechanically sensitive muscle afferents

Arachidonic acid and its metabolites produced via cyclooxygenase (COX) and lipoxygenase pathways have been reported to contribute to the cardiovascular reflexes evoked by stimulating thin fibre muscle afferents during muscle contraction. 20-Hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid (20-HETE), a primarily metabolized product of arachidonic acid by cytochrome P450 enzymes, can be accumulated in contracting muscles. Thus, the purpose of this study was to determine the role of 20-HETE in modulating the reflex sympathetic responses to activation of chemically and mechanically sensitive muscle afferents. The renal sympathetic nerve activity (RSNA) and cardiovascular responses were examined after injections of 20-HETE into the arterial blood supply of the hindlimb muscles of decerebrated rats. This induced a dose-dependent increases in RSNA and mean arterial pressure (MAP). We also tested the hypothesis that 20-HETE would sensitize muscle afferents and, thereby, augment the RSNA and blood pressure response to muscle stretch. The results show that arterial infusion of 20-HETE significantly enhanced the RSNA and MAP responses to muscle stretch. In contrast, N-hydroxy-N'-(4-butyl-2-methylphenyl)formamidine, a potent inhibitor of 20-HETE production, attenuated the reflex muscle responses. Furthermore, the sensitizing effect of 20-HETE on the muscle reflex was significantly attenuated after blocking COX activity with indomethacin. Our data suggest that 20-HETE plays a role in modulating muscle afferent-mediated sympathetic responses, probably through engagement of a COX-dependent mechanism.

Brain uptake and utilization of fatty acids, lipids and lipoproteins: application to neurological disorders

Transport, synthesis, and utilization of brain fatty acids and other lipids have been topics of investigation for more than a century, yet many fundamental aspects are unresolved and, indeed, subject to controversy. Understanding the mechanisms by which lipids cross the blood brain barrier and how they are utilized by neurons and glia is critical to understanding normal brain development and function, for the diagnosis and therapy of human diseases, and for the planning and delivery of optimal human nutrition throughout the world. Two particularly important fatty acids, both of which are abundant in neuronal membranes are: (a) the omega3 polyunsaturated fatty acid docosahexaenoic acid, deficiencies of which can impede brain development and compromise optimal brain function, and (b) the omega6 polyunsaturated fatty acid arachidonic acid, which yields essential, but potentially toxic, metabolic products. There is an exciting emerging evidence that modulating dietary intake of these fatty acids could have a beneficial effect on human neurological health. A workshop was held in October, 2004, in which investigators from diverse disciplines interacted to present new findings and to discuss issues relevant to lipid uptake, utilization, and metabolism in the brain. The objectives of this workshop were: (1) to assess the state-of-the-art of research in brain fatty acid/lipid uptake and utilization; (2) to discuss progress in understanding molecular mechanisms and the treatment of neurological diseases related to lipids and lipoproteins; (3) to identify areas in which current knowledge is insufficient; (4) to provide recommendations for future research; and (5) to stimulate the interest and involvement of additional neuroscientists, particularly young scientists, in these areas. The meeting was divided into four sessions: (1) mechanisms of lipid uptake and transport in the brain, (2) lipoproteins and polyunsaturated fatty acids, (3) eicosanoids in brain function, and (4) fatty acids and lipids in brain disorders. In this article, we will provide an overview of the topics discussed in these sessions.

Human enteric microsomal CYP4F enzymes O-demethylate the antiparasitic prodrug pafuramidine

CYP4F enzymes, including CYP4F2 and CYP4F3B, were recently shown to be the major enzymes catalyzing the initial oxidative O-demethylation of the antiparasitic prodrug pafuramidine (DB289) by human liver microsomes. As suggested by a low oral bioavailability, DB289 could undergo first-pass biotransformation in the intestine, as well as in the liver. Using human intestinal microsomes (HIM), we characterized the enteric enzymes that catalyze the initial O-demethylation of DB289 to the intermediate metabolite, M1. M1 formation in HIM was catalyzed by cytochrome P450 (P450) enzymes, as evidenced by potent inhibition by 1-aminobenzotriazole and the requirement for NADPH. Apparent K(m) and V(max) values ranged from 0.6 to 2.4 microM and from 0.02 to 0.89 nmol/min/mg protein, respectively (n = 9). Of the P450 chemical inhibitors evaluated, ketoconazole was the most potent, inhibiting M1 formation by 66%. Two inhibitors of P450-mediated arachidonic acid metabolism, HET0016 (N-hydroxy-N'-(4-n-butyl-2-methylphenyl)formamidine) and 17-octadecynoic acid, inhibited M1 formation in a concentration-dependent manner (up to 95%). Immunoinhibition with an antibody raised against CYP4F2 showed concentration-dependent inhibition of M1 formation (up to 92%), whereas antibodies against CYP3A4/5 and CYP2J2 had negligible to modest effects. M1 formation rates correlated strongly with arachidonic acid omega-hydroxylation rates (r(2) = 0.94, P < 0.0001, n = 12) in a panel of HIM that lacked detectable CYP4A11 protein expression. Quantitative Western blot analysis revealed appreciable CYP4F expression in these HIM, with a mean (range) of 7 (3-18) pmol/mg protein. We conclude that enteric CYP4F enzymes could play a role in the first-pass biotransformation of DB289 and other xenobiotics.

Elevations in Renal Interstitial Hydrostatic Pressure and 20-Hydroxyeicosatetraenoic Acid Contribute to Pressure Natriuresis

This study examined the role of changes in renal interstitial pressure on the renal levels of cytochrome P450 metabolites of arachidonic acid and compared the effects of inhibition of the formation of 20-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid (20-HETE) and epoxyeicosatrienoic acids with 1-aminobenzotriazole on the pressure-natriuretic response versus that seen after administration of HET0016, a more selective inhibitor of the formation of 20-HETE. Renal interstitial pressure rose by 3.4±0.3 mm Hg, and the levels of 20-HETE in renal cortical tissue doubled when renal perfusion pressure was increased from 100 to 160 mm Hg. Removal of the renal capsule prevented the increase in renal interstitial pressure and 20-HETE levels after an elevation in renal perfusion pressure. Urine flow and sodium excretion increased 5-fold when renal perfusion pressure was increased from 106 to 160 mm Hg. The administration of 1-aminobenzotriazole (50 mg/kg, IP) or HET0016 (10 mg/kg IV bolus plus 1 mg/kg per hour of infusion) decreased the pressure-natriuretic response by 50% and inhibited the renal formation of 20-HETE and epoxyeicosatrienoic acids by 90% and 50%, respectively. Administration of a lower dose of HET0016 (1 mg/kg per hour, IV) selectively reduced the formation of 20-HETE by 80% without inhibiting renal epoxygenase activity and blunted the pressure-natriuretic response by 42%. These results indicate that elevations in renal perfusion pressure increase 20-HETE levels in the kidney secondary to a rise in renal interstitial pressure. They also suggest that 20-HETE, rather than epoxyeicosatrienoic acids, modulates the pressure-natriuretic response, because selective blockade of the formation of 20-HETE with HET0016 blunts the response to the same extent as that seen after inhibition of the formation of 20-HETE and epoxyeicosatrienoic acids with 1-aminobenzotriazole.

Protective effect of the 20-HETE inhibitor HET0016 on brain damage after temporary focal ischemia

Cytochrome P450 metabolism of arachidonic acid produces the potent vasoconstrictive metabolite, 20-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid (20-HETE). Recent studies have implicated 20-HETE as a vasoconstrictive mediator in hemorrhagic stroke. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of the 20-HETE inhibitor, HET0016, on lesion volume and cerebral blood flow (CBF) after temporary middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) in rats. Plasma pharmacokinetics and tissue concentrations of HET0016 were determined after a 10 mg/kg intraperitoneal dose. Separate rats were treated with HET0016 or vehicle before 90 mins of MCAO. Lesion volume was assessed by 2,3,5-triphenyl-tetrazolium-chloride and cerebral flow was determined using laser Doppler flow. The effect of MCAO on in vitro microsomal formation of mono-oxygenated arachidonic acid metabolites was also determined. Results show that HET0016 has a short biologic half-life, distributes into the brain, and is associated with a 79.6% reduction in 20-HETE concentration in the cortex. Lesion volume was greatly reduced in HET0016-treated (9.1%+/-4.9%) versus vehicle-treated (57.4%+/-9.8%; n=6; P<0.001) rats. An attenuation of the observed decrease in CBF was observed in HET0016-treated (180 mins 89.2%+/-6.2%; 240 mins 88.1%+/-5.7% of baseline flow) versus vehicle control (180 mins 57.6%+/-19.0%; 240 mins 53.8%+/-20.0% of baseline flow; n=6; P<0.05). Brain cortical microsomal formation rate of 20-HETE was also reduced at 24 h in the ipsilateral hemisphere after MCAO. These data support a significant role for 20-HETE in the pathogenesis of ischemic stroke.

Cyclooxygenases, lipoxygenases, and epoxygenases in CNS: Their role and involvement in neurological disorders

Three enzyme systems, cyclooxygenases that generate prostaglandins, lipoxygenases that form hydroxy derivatives and leukotrienes, and epoxygenases that give rise to epoxyeicosatrienoic products, metabolize arachidonic acid after its release from neural membrane phospholipids by the action of phospholipase A(2). Lysophospholipids, the other products of phospholipase A(2) reactions, are either reacylated or metabolized to platelet-activating factor. Under normal conditions, these metabolites play important roles in synaptic function, cerebral blood flow regulation, apoptosis, angiogenesis, and gene expression. Increased activities of cyclooxygenases, lipoxygenases, and epoxygenases under pathological situations such as ischemia, epilepsy, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease produce neuroinflammation involving vasodilation and vasoconstriction, platelet aggregation, leukocyte chemotaxis and release of cytokines, and oxidative stress. These are closely associated with the neural cell injury which occurs in these neurological conditions. The metabolic products of docosahexaenoic acid, through these enzymes, generate a new class of lipid mediators, namely docosatrienes and resolvins. These metabolites antagonize the effect of metabolites derived from arachidonic acid. Recent studies provide insight into how these arachidonic acid metabolites interact with each other and other bioactive mediators such as platelet-activating factor, endocannabinoids, and docosatrienes under normal and pathological conditions. Here, we review present knowledge of the functions of cyclooxygenases, lipoxygenases, and epoxygenases in brain and their association with neurodegenerative diseases.

CYP1A in TCDD toxicity and in physiology-with particular reference to CYP dependent arachidonic acid metabolism and other endogenous substrates

Toxicologic and physiologic roles of CYP1A enzyme induction, the major biochemical effect of aryl hydrocarbon receptor activation by TCDD and other receptor ligands, are unknown. Evidence is presented that CYP1A exerts biologic effects via metabolism of endogenous substrates (i.e., arachidonic acid, other eicosanoids, estrogens, bilirubin, and melatonin), production of reactive oxygen, and effects on K(+) and Ca(2+) channels. These interrelated pathways may connect CYP1A induction to TCDD toxicities, including cardiotoxicity, vascular dysfunction, and wasting. They may also underlie homeostatic roles for CYP1A, especially when transiently induced by common chemical exposures and environmental conditions (i.e., tryptophan photoproducts, dietary indoles, and changes in oxygen tension).

Increased renal vascular reactivity to ANG II after unilateral nephrectomy in the rat involves 20-HETE

This study examined the role of intrarenal ANG II in the renal vascular reactivity changes occurring in the remaining kidney undergoing adaptation following contralateral nephrectomy. Renal blood flow responses to intrarenal injections of ANG II (0.25 to 5 ng) were measured in anesthetized euvolemic male Wistar rats 1, 4, 12, and 24 wk after uninephrectomy (UNX) or sham procedure (SHAM). At week 4, renal vasoconstriction induced by 2 ng ANG II was greater in UNX (69 +/- 5%) than in SHAM rats (50 +/- 3%; P < 0.01). This response was inhibited, by 50 and 66%, and by 20 and 25%, in SHAM and UNX rats, after combined injections of ANG II and losartan, or PD-123319 (P < 0.05), respectively. Characteristics of ANG II receptor binding in isolated preglomerular resistance vessels were similar in the two groups. After prostanoid inhibition with indomethacin, renal vasoconstriction was enhanced by 42 +/- 8% (P < 0.05), only in SHAM rats, whereas after 20-HETE inhibition with HET0016, it was reduced by 53 +/- 16% (P < 0.05), only in UNX rats. These differences vanished after concomitant prostanoid and 20-HETE inhibition in the two groups. After UNX, renal cortical protein expression of cytochrome P-450 2c23 isoform (CYP2c23) and cyclooxygenase-1 (COX-1) was unaltered, but it was decreased for CYP4a and increased for COX-2. In conclusion, renal vascular reactivity to ANG II was significantly increased in the postuninephrectomy adapted kidney, independently of protein expression, but presumably involving interactions between 20-HETE and COX in the renal microvasculature and changes in the paracrine activity of ANG II and 20-HETE.

Effect of a new inhibitor of the synthesis of 20-HETE on cerebral ischemia reperfusion injury

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Arachidonic acid that is released following cerebral ischemia can be metabolized to 20-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid (20-HETE). 20-HETE is a potent vasoconstrictor that may contribute to ischemic injury. This study examined the effects of blockading the synthesis of 20-HETE with TS-011 on infarct size after transient occlusion of the middle cerebral artery (MCAO) of rats and after thromboembolic stroke in monkeys.

METHODS

Rats were treated with TS-011 or vehicle at various times after MCAO. Infarct size was measured by 2,3,5-triphenyltetrazolium chloride (TTC) staining and plasma levels of 20-HETE were determined by liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (LC/MS). The effect of TS-011 on infarct size was also studied in monkeys after introduction of a clot into the internal carotid artery.

RESULTS

Plasma levels of 20-HETE increased after MCAO in rats. TS-011 (0.01 to 1.0 mg/kg per hour) reduced infarct volume by 40%. Chronic administration of TS-011 for 7 days reduced neurological deficits after MCAO in rats. TS-011 given in combination with tissue plasminogen activator also improved neurological outcome in the stroke model in monkeys.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that blockade of the formation of 20-HETE with TS-011 may be useful for the treatment of ischemic stroke.

Cerebral vasospasm: a consideration of the various cellular mechanisms involved in the pathophysiology

The cellular mechanisms responsible for cerebral vasospasm (CVS) occurring after subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) have been of major interest over the past 50 years. The present review describes how each of the discrete anatomic components that comprise the cerebral artery may contribute to the pathology of CVS. The blood extravasated after SAH is hemolyzed and undergoes degradation with resultant production of free radicals, known to be powerful initiators of vascular damage. An inflammatory response is generated activating both leukocytes and platelets with subsequent release of inflammatory agents. The cerebral artery affected by CVS undergoes phenotypic change involving both the endothelial and smooth muscle cells. In the endothelium the production of nitric oxide and prostacyclin is affected. In the smooth muscle cells signal transduction pathways that enhance the function of the contractile proteins and induce the upregulation of contractile receptors are activated. In parallel, there is evidence that nervous reflex pathways involving the trigeminal ganglion and the hypothalamus are activated. However, the relative contributions of each of the systems are speculative. Therapy may be directed at disrupting the cascade leading from the SAH insult to CVS or at overcoming the dysfunction incurred by CVS; possible therapeutical interventions are considered.

Role of 20-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid (20-HETE) in vascular system

Cytochrome P450s (P450) metabolize arachidonic acid (AA) to hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acids (HETEs) and epoxyeicosatrienoic acids (EETs). Among these eicosanoids, 20-HETE is formed in a tissue and cell-specific fashion and plays an important role in the regulation of vascular tone in the brain, kidney, heart and splanchnic beds. 20-HETE is a potent vasoconstrictor produced in vascular smooth muscle (VSM) cells. It depolarizes VSM by blocking the open-state probability of Ca2+-activated K+-channels. Inhibitors of the formation of 20-HETE block the myogenic response of renal and cerebral arterioles in vitro and autoregulation of renal and cerebral blood flow in vivo. The formation of 20-HETE in vascular smooth muscle is stimulated by angiotensin II, endothelin and norepinephrine and is inhibited by nitric oxide (NO). 20-HETE also stimulates mitogenic and angiogenic responses in vitro and in vivo. Changes in the production of 20-HETE have been observed in ischemic cerebrovascular diseases, cardiac ischemia-reperfusion injury, kidney diseases, hypertension, diabetes, uremia, toxemia of pregnancy. The physiological and pathophysiological role of 20-HETE in the regulation of vascular tone are being revealed by the use of newly developed inhibitors of the synthesis of 20-HETE and 20-HETE analogs. The present review summarizes recent findings implicating a critical role for 20-HETE in altering cardiovascular function in a variety of pathological conditions.

Hemoglobin, NO, and 20-HETE interactions in mediating cerebral vasoconstriction following SAH

Recent studies have indicated that 20-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid (20-HETE) contributes to the fall in cerebral blood flow (CBF) after subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH), but the factors that stimulate the production of 20-HETE are unknown. This study examines the role of vasoactive factors released by clotting blood vs. the scavenging of nitric oxide (NO) by hemoglobin (Hb) in the fall in CBF after SAH. Intracisternal (icv) injection of blood produced a greater and more prolonged (120 vs. 30 min) decrease in CBF than that produced by a 4% solution of Hb. Pretreating rats with N(omega)-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester (l-NAME; 10 mg/kg iv) to block the synthesis of NO had no effect on the fall in CBF produced by an icv injection of blood. l-NAME enhanced rather than attenuated the fall in CBF produced by an icv injection of Hb. Blockade of the synthesis of 20-HETE with TS-011 (0.1 mg/kg iv) prevented the sustained fall in CBF produced by an icv injection of blood and the transient vasoconstrictor response to Hb. Hb (0.1%) reduced the diameter of the basilar artery (BA) of rats in vitro by 10 +/- 2%. This response was reversed by TS-011 (100 nM). Pretreatment of vessels with l-NAME (300 muM) reduced the diameter of BA and blocked the subsequent vasoconstrictor response to the addition of Hb to the bath. TS-011 returned the diameter of vessels exposed to l-NAME and Hb to that of control. These results suggest that the fall in CBF after SAH is largely due to the release of vasoactive factors by clotting blood rather than the scavenging of NO by Hb and that 20-HETE contributes the vasoconstrictor response of cerebral vessels to both Hb and blood.

Role of 20-HETE in the pial arteriolar constrictor response to decreased hematocrit after exchange transfusion of cell-free polymeric hemoglobin

The cerebrovascular response to decreases in hematocrit and viscosity depends on accompanying changes in arterial O2 content. This study examines whether 1) the arteriolar dilation seen after exchange transfusion with a 5% albumin solution can be reduced by the K(ATP) channel antagonist glibenclamide (known to inhibit hypoxic dilation), and 2) the arteriolar constriction seen after exchange transfusion with a cell-free hemoglobin polymer to improve O2-carrying capacity can be blocked by inhibitors of the synthesis or vasoconstrictor actions of 20-HETE. In anesthetized rats, decreasing hematocrit by one-third with albumin exchange transfusion dilated pial arterioles (14 +/- 2%; SD), whereas superfusion of the surface of the brain with 10 muM glibenclamide blocked this response (-10 +/- 7%). Exchange transfusion with polymeric hemoglobin decreased the diameter of pial arterioles by 20 +/- 3% without altering arterial pressure. This constrictor response was attenuated by superfusing the surface of the brain with a 20-HETE antagonist, WIT-002 (10 microM; -5 +/- 1%), and was blocked by two chemically dissimilar selective inhibitors of the synthesis of 20-HETE, DDMS (50 microM; 0 +/- 4%) and HET-0016 (1 microM; +6 +/- 4%). The constrictor response to hemoglobin transfusion was not blocked by an inhibitor of nitric oxide (NO) synthase, and the inhibition of the constrictor response by DDMS was not altered by coadministration of the NO synthase inhibitor. We conclude 1) that activation of K(ATP) channels contributes to pial arteriolar dilation during anemia, whereas 2) constriction to polymeric hemoglobin transfusion at reduced hematocrit represents a regulatory response that limits increased O2 transport and that is mediated by increased formation of 20-HETE, rather than by NO scavenging.

Evaluation of cytochrome P450 4 family as mediator of phospholipase D activation in aortic vascular smooth muscle cells

Norepinephrine (NE) stimulates phospholipase D (PLD) activity via phospholipase A2-dependent arachidonic acid release in rabbit aortic vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC). We have previously shown that exogenous 20-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid (20-HETE), an eicosanoid generated through the cytochrome P450 (CYP) 4A pathway in vivo, stimulates PLD activity. Whether endogenous CYP4-derived arachidonic acid metabolites act as intracellular mediators of NE-induced PLD activation in VSMC is not known. In rabbit aortic VSMC, prototypical hepatic/renal CYP4A inducers such as fenofibrate and Wy 14643 inhibited both basal and NE-induced PLD activity after 48 h of exposure. The level of CYP4F, and to a lesser extent CYP4A, was also decreased by these agents. The expression levels of rabbit aortic VSMC CYP4A and CYP4F isoforms were reduced by antisense oligonucleotides treatment for 48 hours as measured by RTQ-PCR or Western blotting. This reduction in CYP4A or CYP4F levels did not change NE-induced PLD activation. The corresponding CYP4A scrambled and CYP4F sense oligonucleotides did not alter CYP levels. PLD activity was increased by ~70% after 15 min of stimulation with NE, whereas lauric acid omega-hydroxylase activity, a measure of fatty acid omega-hydroxylation, was unchanged. Inhibition of omega-hydroxylation with DDMS and HET0016, selective omega-hydroxylase inhibitors, and 20-HEDE, an antagonist of 20-HETE, increased PLD activity in a concentration-dependent manner and did not alter NE-induced PLD activation. These data suggest that PLD activation by NE is independent of the CYP4A/4F enzymes in rabbit aortic VSMC.

Reversal of delayed vasospasm by an inhibitor of the synthesis of 20-HETE

This study characterized the time course of changes in cerebral blood flow (CBF) and vascular diameter in a dual-hemorrhage model of subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) in rats and examined whether acute blockade of the synthesis of 20-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid (20-HETE) with N-(3-chloro-4-morpholin-4-yl)phenyl-N'-hydroxyimido formamide (TS-011) can reverse delayed vasospasm in this model. Rats received an intracisternal injection of blood (0.4 ml) on day 0 and a second injection 2 days later. CBF was sequentially measured using laser-Doppler flowmetry, and the diameters of the cerebral arteries were determined after filling the cerebral vasculature with a casting compound. CBF fell to 67% of control after the first intracisternal injection of blood but returned to a value near control 24 h later. CBF again fell to 63% of control after a second intracisternal injection of blood and remained 30% below control for 5 days. The fall in CBF after the second intracisternal injection of blood was associated with a sustained 30% reduction in the diameters of the middle cerebral, posterior communicating, and basilar arteries. Acute blockade of the synthesis of 20-HETE with TS-011 (0.1 mg/kg i.v.), 5 days after the second SAH, increased the diameters of the cerebral arteries, and CBF returned to control. These results indicate that the rats develop delayed vasospasm after induction of the dual-hemorrhage model of SAH and that blockade of the synthesis of 20-HETE fully reverses cerebral vasospasm in this model. They also implicate 20-HETE in the development and maintenance of delayed cerebral vasospasm.

Angiotensin II-induced Akt activation is mediated by metabolites of arachidonic acid generated by CaMKII-stimulated Ca2+-dependent phospholipase A2

Angiotensin II (ANG II) promotes vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) growth, stimulates Ca2+-calmodulin (CaM)-dependent kinase II (CaMKII), and activates cytosolic Ca2+-dependent phospholipase A2(cPLA2), which releases arachidonic acid (AA). ANG II also generates H2O2and activates Akt, which have been implicated in ANG II actions in VSMC. This study was conducted to investigate the relationship of these signaling molecules to Akt activation in rat aortic VSMC. ANG II increased Akt activity, as measured by its phosphorylation at serine-473. ANG II (200 nM)-induced Akt phosphorylation was decreased by extracellular Ca2+depletion and calcium chelator EGTA and inhibitors of CaM [ N-(6-aminohexyl)-5-chloro-1-naphthalenesulfonamide] and CaMKII {(2-[ N-(2-hydroxyethyl)]- N-(4-me-thoxybenzenesulfonyl)]amino- N-(4-chlorocinnamyl)- N-methylbenzyl-amine)}. cPLA2inhibitor pyrrolidine-1, antisense oligonucleotide, and retroviral small interfering RNA also attenuated ANG II-induced Akt phosphorylation. AA increased Akt phosphorylation, and AA metabolism inhibitor 5,8,11,14-eicosatetraynoic acid (ETYA) blocked ANG II- and AA-induced Akt phosphorylation (199.03 ± 27.91% with ANG II and 110.18 ± 22.40% with ETYA + ANG II; 405.00 ± 86.22% with AA and 153.97 ± 63.26% with ETYA + AA). Inhibitors of lipoxygenase (cinnamyl-3,4-dihydroxy-α-cyanocinnamate) and cytochrome P-450 (ketoconazole and 17-octadecynoic acid), but not cyclooxygenase (indomethacin), attenuated ANG II- and AA-induced Akt phosphorylation. Furthermore, 5( S)-, 12( S)-, 15( S)-, and 20-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acids and 5,6-, 11,12-, and 14,15-epoxyeicosatrienoic acids increased Akt phosphorylation. Catalase inhibited ANG II-increased H2O2production but not Akt phosphorylation. Oleic acid, which also increased H2O2production, did not cause Akt phosphorylation. These data suggest that ANG II-induced Akt activation in VSMC is mediated by AA metabolites, most likely generated via lipoxygenase and cytochrome P-450 consequent to AA released by CaMKII-activated cPLA2and independent of H2O2production.

Beneficial Effects of a New 20-Hydroxyeicosatetraenoic Acid Synthesis Inhibitor, TS-011 [N-(3-Chloro-4-morpholin-4-yl) Phenyl-N′-hydroxyimido Formamide], on Hemorrhagic and Ischemic Stroke

The present study characterized the effects of TS-011 [N-(3-chloro-4-morpholin-4-yl) phenyl-N'-hydroxyimido formamide], a new selective inhibitor of the synthesis of 20-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid (20-HETE), on the metabolism of arachidonic acid by human and rat renal microsomes and the inhibitory effects of this compound on hepatic cytochrome P450 enzymes involved in drug metabolism. The effects of TS-011 on the fall in cerebral blood flow following subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) and in reducing infarct size in ischemic stroke models were also examined since 20-HETE may contribute to the development of cerebral vasospasm. TS-011 inhibited the synthesis of 20-HETE by human renal microsomes and recombinant CYP4A11 and 4F2, 4F3A, and 4F3B enzymes with IC50 values around 10 to 50 nM. It had no effect on the activities of CYP1A, 2C9, 2C19, 2D6, or 3A4 enzymes. TS-011 inhibited the synthesis of 20-HETE by rat renal microsomes with an IC50 of 9.19 nM, and it had no effect on epoxygenase activity at a concentration of 100 microM. TS-011 (0.01-1 mg/kg i.v.) reversed the fall in cerebral blood flow and the increase in 20-HETE levels in the cerebrospinal fluid of rats after SAH. TS-011 also reduced the infarct volume by 35% following transient ischemic stroke and in intracerebral hemorrhage in rats. Injection of 20-HETE (8 or 12 mg/kg) into the carotid artery produced an infarct similar to that seen in the ischemic stroke model. These studies indicate that blockade of the synthesis of 20-HETE with TS-011 opposes cerebral vasospasm following SAH and reduces infarct size in ischemic models of stroke.

Regulation and inhibition of arachidonic acid omega-hydroxylases and 20-HETE formation

Cytochrome P450-catalyzed metabolism of arachidonic acid is an important pathway for the formation of paracrine and autocrine mediators of numerous biological effects. The omega-hydroxylation of arachidonic acid generates significant levels of 20-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid (20-HETE) in numerous tissues, particularly the vasculature and kidney tubules. Members of the cytochrome P450 4A and 4F families are the major omega-hydroxylases, and the substrate selectivity and regulation of these enzymes has been the subject of numerous studies. Altered expression and function of arachidonic acid omega-hydroxylases in models of hypertension, diabetes, inflammation, and pregnancy suggest that 20-HETE may be involved in the pathogenesis of these diseases. Our understanding of the biological significance of 20-HETE has been greatly aided by the development and characterization of selective and potent inhibitors of the arachidonic acid omega-hydroxylases. This review discusses the substrate selectivity and expression of arachidonic acid omega-hydroxylases, regulation of these enzymes during disease, and the application of enzyme inhibitors to study 20-HETE function.

Pyrazole derivatives as new potent and selective 20-hydroxy-5,8,11,14-eicosatetraenoic acid synthase inhibitors

Improvement of the physical properties of pyrazole derivative 1, which we reported previously as a potent and selective 20-HETE synthase inhibitor (IC(50) 5.7 nM), is described. Introduction of a sufficient substituted-amino group on the side chain enhanced the water-solubility of 1 (0.014 mg/mL at pH 6.8). Among the products, 2-piperazinoethoxy derivatives 3e and 6b showed solubility suitable for injection and potent inhibitory activity toward 20-HETE synthase (IC(50) 21.2 and 14.0 nM, respectively).

Pyrazole and isoxazole derivatives as new, potent, and selective 20-hydroxy-5,8,11,14-eicosatetraenoic acid synthase inhibitors

In a previous paper, we reported the N-hydroxyformamidine derivative HET0016 as a potent and selective 20-HETE synthase inhibitor. Despite its attraction as a potential therapeutic agent for cerebral diseases, the preparation of an injectable formulation of HET0016 was limited by its poor solubility under neutral conditions and instability under acidic conditions. The instability of HET0016 in acidic conditions is due to the N-hydroxyformamidine moiety, which is considered to be essential for the potent and selective activity seen in our previous study. The activity was maintained when the N-hydroxyformamidine moiety was replaced by an imidazole ring (3a; IC(50) = 5.7 +/- 1.0 nM), but this was associated with a loss of selectivity for cytochrome p450s (CYPs). However, other azole derivatives such as isoxazole derivative 23 (IC(50) value 38 +/- 10 nM) and pyrazole derivative 24 (IC(50) value 23 +/- 12 nM) showed potent and selective activities with improved stability.

Imidazole derivatives as new potent and selective 20-HETE synthase inhibitors

In a previous paper, we reported that an imidazole derivative 1 exhibited a potent inhibitory activity of 20-HETE synthase (1; IC(50) value of 5.7 nM), but this compound also exhibited little selectivity for cytochrome P450s (CYPs). We examined some derivatives of imidazole 1 which had an amino group on the side chain, and found that a dimethylaminohexyloxy derivative (3g; IC(50) value of 8.8 nM) showed potent and selective inhibitory activity.

Inhibitors of 20-HETE formation promote salt-sensitive hypertension in rats

This study examined whether chronic blockade of epoxyeicosatrienoic acids (EETs) and/or 20-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid (20-HETE) formation promotes development of salt-sensitive hypertension. Changes in blood pressure, renal cytochrome P450 metabolism of arachidonic acid, and 20-HETE excretion in response to a high salt diet were measured in rats chronically treated with 1-aminobenzotriazole (ABT, 50 mg/kg per day) to block EETs and 20-HETE formation or N-hydroxy-N'-(4-butyl-2 methylphenyl) formamidine (HET0016, 10 mg/kg per day) that selectively reduces 20-HETE formation. ABT reduced blood pressure in rats fed a low salt (0.4% NaCl) diet, but blood pressure rose by 20 mm Hg after these rats were switched to a high salt (8% NaCl) diet for 10 days. HET0016 had no effect on blood pressure in rats fed a low salt diet; however, blood pressure rose by 18 mm Hg after the rats were fed a high salt diet. 20-HETE formation in kidney homogenates rose by 30% and epoxygenase activity doubled when rats were fed a high salt diet. Chronic treatment with ABT and HET0016 inhibited the renal formation of 20-HETE by approximately 90%. Renal epoxygenase activity decreased by 76% in ABT-treated rats and was not significantly altered in rats treated with HET0016. 20-HETE excretion rose from 470+/-21 to 570+/-41 ng/d when the rats were switched from the low to the high salt diet. 20-HETE excretion fell by 68% and 85% in rats that were chronically treated with ABT and HET0016. These results suggest that chronic blockade of the formation of 20-HETE promotes the development of salt-sensitive hypertension in rats.

Determination of 20-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid in microsomal incubates using high-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS)

20-HETE is a potent, vasoconstrictive arachidonic acid metabolite with a limited number of published methods for quantitative assessment of microsomal formation rate. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the utility of HPLC-MS (negative ESI) for quantitation of rat microsomal 20-HETE enzyme kinetics. Calibration curves were linear over 0.75-16 ng on-column (r(2)>0.996). The intra- and inter-assay precision and accuracy were <15%. Microsomal 20-HETE revealed saturable (100 microM) kinetics (brain K(m) and V(max): 39.9+/-6.0 microM and 8.7+/-0.6 pM/min per mg; liver K(m) and V(max): 23.5+/-3.2 microM and 775.5+/-39.8 pmol/min per mg; kidney K(m) and V(max): 47.6+/-8.5 microM and 1933+/-151 pM/min per mg). This paper demonstrates HPLC-MS as an efficient method for quantitating 20-HETE enzyme kinetics in microsomes from rat tissues.

Contribution of 5-hydroxytryptamine1B receptors and 20-hydroxyeiscosatetraenoic acid to fall in cerebral blood flow after subarachnoid hemorrhage

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

This study examined the interaction between 5-hydroxytryptamine1B (5-HT1B) receptors and 20-hydroxyeiscosatetraenoic acid (20-HETE) in contributing to the acute fall in regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) after subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) in rats.

METHODS

The effects of intracisternal injection of 0.3 mL of arterial blood, artificial cerebrospinal fluid, and 5-HT on rCBF and the levels of 20-HETE and 5-HT in cerebrospinal fluid were measured in rats pretreated with vehicle, a 5-HT1B receptor antagonist (isamoltane hemifumarate), or an inhibitor of the synthesis of 20-HETE (HET0016). The effects of HET0016 and isamoltane on the vasoconstrictor response and changes in [Ca2+]i to 5-HT were also studied in middle cerebral arteries and vascular smooth muscle cells isolated from these vessels.

RESULTS

20-HETE and 5-HT levels in cerebrospinal fluid rose from 172+/-10 to 629+/-44 ng/mL and from 6+/-4 to 1163+/-200 nmol/mL, respectively, after SAH. rCBF fell by 30% 10 minutes after SAH, and it remained at this level for the next 2 hours. Blockade of 5-HT1B receptors prevented the sustained fall in rCBF seen after SAH. Intracisternal injection of 5-HT mimicked SAH by increasing 20-HETE levels in cerebrospinal fluid to 475+/-94 ng/mL and reducing rCBF by 30%. Blockade of the synthesis of 20-HETE with HET0016 prevented the fall in rCBF produced by 5-HT. Isamoltane and HET0016 reduced the vasoconstrictor response of isolated MCA to 5-HT by >60% and diminished the rise in [Ca2+]i produced by 5-HT in vascular smooth muscle cells isolated from these arteries.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that the release of 5-HT after SAH activates 5-HT1B receptors and the synthesis of 20-HETE and that 20-HETE contributes to the acute fall in rCBF by potentiating the vasoconstrictor response of cerebral vessels to 5-HT.

CYP4A metabolites of arachidonic acid and VEGF are mediators of skeletal muscle angiogenesis

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) has been implicated in angiogenesis induced by electrical stimulation in skeletal muscle. Less is known about the role of arachidonic acid metabolites in the control of growth of blood vessels in vivo. The present study examined the role of 20-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid (20-HETE) on the angiogenesis induced by electrical stimulation in skeletal muscle. The tibialis anterior and extensor digitorum longus muscles of rats were stimulated for 7 days. Electrical stimulation significantly increased the 20-HETE formation and angiogenesis in the muscles, which was blocked by chronic treatment with N-hydroxy-N'-(4-butyl-2-methylphenol)formamidine (HET0016) or 1-aminobenzotriazole (ABT). Chronic treatment with either HET0016 or ABT did not block the increases in VEGF protein expression in both muscles. To analyze the role of VEGF on 20-HETE formation, additional rats were treated with VEGF-neutralizing antibody (VEGF Ab). VEGF Ab blocked the increases of 20-HETE formation induced by stimulation. These results place 20-HETE in the downstream signaling pathway for angiogenesis and show that both VEGF and 20-HETE are involved in the angiogenesis induced by electrical stimulation in skeletal muscle.

Enhanced myogenic tone in cerebral arteries from a rabbit model of subarachnoid hemorrhage

Cerebral artery vasospasm is a major cause of death and disability in patients experiencing subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). Currently, little is known regarding the impact of SAH on small diameter (100-200 microm) cerebral arteries, which play an important role in the autoregulation of cerebral blood flow. With the use of a rabbit SAH model and in vitro video microscopy, cerebral artery diameter was measured in response to elevations in intravascular pressure. Cerebral arteries from SAH animals constricted more (approximately twofold) to pressure within the physiological range of 60-100 mmHg compared with control or sham-operated animals. Pressure-induced constriction (myogenic tone) was also enhanced in arteries from control animals organ cultured in the presence of oxyhemoglobin, an effect independent of the vascular endothelium or nitric oxide synthesis. Finally, arteries from both control and SAH animals dilated as intravascular pressure was elevated above 140 mmHg. This study provides evidence for a role of oxyhemoglobin in impaired autoregulation (i.e., enhanced myogenic tone) in small diameter cerebral arteries during SAH. Furthermore, therapeutic strategies that improve clinical outcome in SAH patients (e.g., supraphysiological intravascular pressure) are effective in dilating small diameter cerebral arteries isolated from SAH animals.

Antihypertensive effect of mechanism-based inhibition of renal arachidonic acid omega-hydroxylase activity

The cytochrome P-450 eicosanoid 20-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid (20-HETE) is a potent vasoconstrictor that is implicated in the regulation of blood pressure. The identification of selective inhibitors of renal 20-HETE formation for use in vivo would facilitate studies to determine the systemic effects of this eicosanoid. We characterized the acetylenic fatty acid sodium 10-undecynyl sulfate (10-SUYS) as a potent and selective mechanism-based inhibitor of renal 20-HETE formation. A single dose of 10-SUYS caused an acute reduction in mean arterial blood pressure in 8-wk-old spontaneously hypertensive rats. The decrease in mean arterial pressure was maximal 6 h after 10-SUYS treatment (17.9 +/- 3.2 mmHg; P < 0.05), and blood pressure returned to baseline levels within 24 h after treatment. Treatment with 10-SUYS was associated with a decrease in urinary 20-HETE formation in vivo and attenuation of the vasoconstrictor response of renal interlobar arteries to ANG II in vitro. These results provide further evidence that 20-HETE plays an important role in the regulation of blood pressure in the spontaneously hypertensive rat.

Identification of a novel cytochrome P450, CYP4X1, with unique localization specific to the brain

A novel cytochrome P450 (P450 or CYP) isoform belonging to the CYP4 family was cloned with reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction from rat brain. The nucleotide sequence contained an open reading frame coding for 507 amino acids. The deduced amino acid sequence showed 41-51% identity with that of members of the rat CYP4 subfamilies 4A, 4B, and 4F. The enzyme was designated CYP4X1. Northern blot analysis showed that CYP4X1 is highly and specifically expressed in the brain. In situ hybridization experiments suggest that CYP4X1 is mainly expressed in neurons in different regions, e.g., the brain stem, hippocampus, cortex, and cerebellum as well as in vascular endothelial cells. The function of this novel P450 enzyme is unknown, but the expression pattern of CYP4X1 suggests that it is possible that CYP4X1 plays a role in neurovascular function. The catalytic properties and physiological function of CYP4X1 are currently under investigation.