The sigma receptor as a ligand-regulated auxiliary potassium channel subunit

Interaction of afobazole with sigma1-receptors

In vitro radioligand assay revealed interaction of afobazole with sigma(1)-receptors (Ki=5.9x10(-6) M). Translocation of sigma(1)-receptors from the endoplasmic reticulum to the outer membrane was demonstrated by confocal microscopy. Experiments were performed on the model of HT-22 immortalized hippocampal cells after incubation with afobazole in a concentration of 10(-8) M.

sigma-1 receptors in major depression and anxiety

Major depression and anxiety are two of the major psychiatric disorders that have some overlapping pathophysiologies, the most significant being the dysfunction in the monoaminergic, GABAergic and glutamatergic systems. A large number of drugs that alter these neurotransmitter levels/systems are effective in the treatment of major depression and anxiety. However, full remission of the clinical symptoms has not been achieved, perhaps owing to the complex pathophysiology of the diseases. Thus, the search for newer targets and target-specific drugs continues. Recently, the role of sigma-receptors, particularly the sigma-1 receptor subtype, has been identified as a target for the pathophysiology of neuropsychiatric disorders, and sigma-1 receptor modulators are considered to be the drugs of the future for the treatment of major depression and anxiety. The present review attempts to discuss the role of sigma-1 receptors in the pathophysiology of major depression and anxiety and also tries to position the use of its receptor modulators in the treatment of these two major disorders. The role of sigma-1 receptors in the mechanism of antidepressant action of venlafaxine, bupropion, neurosteroids and one of the herbal antidepressants, berberine, is reviewed. Although, sigma-1 receptor modulators may be future therapeutic options, either as individual agents or adjuvants in the treatment of mental disorders, the topic needs further preclinical and clinical exploration.

Sigma receptors suppress multiple aspects of microglial activation

During brain injury, microglia become activated and migrate to areas of degenerating neurons. These microglia release proinflammatory cytokines and reactive oxygen species causing additional neuronal death. Microglia express high levels of sigma receptors, however, the function of these receptors in microglia and how they may affect the activation of these cells remain poorly understood. Using primary rat microglial cultures, it was found that sigma receptor activation suppresses the ability of microglia to rearrange their actin cytoskeleton, migrate, and release cytokines in response to the activators adenosine triphosphate (ATP), monocyte chemoattractant protein 1 (MCP-1), and lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Next, the role of sigma receptors in the regulation of calcium signaling during microglial activation was explored. Calcium fluorometry experiments in vitro show that stimulation of sigma receptors suppressed both transient and sustained intracellular calcium elevations associated with the microglial response to these activators. Further experiments showed that sigma receptors suppress microglial activation by interfering with increases in intracellular calcium. In addition, sigma receptor activation also prevented membrane ruffling in a calcium-independent manner, indicating that sigma receptors regulate the function of microglia via multiple mechanisms.

The sigma-receptor antagonist BD-1063 decreases ethanol intake and reinforcement in animal models of excessive drinking

Sigma-Receptors (SigRs) have been implicated in behavioral and appetitive effects of psychostimulants and may also modulate the motivating properties of ethanol. This study tested the hypothesis that SigRs modulate ethanol reinforcement and contribute to excessive ethanol intake. The effects of subcutaneous treatment with the potent, selective Sig-1R antagonist BD-1063 on operant ethanol self-administration were studied in two models of excessive drinking-Sardinian alcohol-preferring (sP) rats and acutely withdrawn ethanol-dependent Wistar rats-and compared to ethanol self-administration in nondependent Wistar controls. To assess the specificity of action, the effects of BD-1063 on self-administration of an equally reinforcing saccharin solution were determined in Wistar and sP rats. Gene expression of Sig-1R in reward-related brain areas implicated in ethanol reinforcement was compared between ethanol-naive sP and Wistar rats and withdrawn ethanol-dependent Wistar rats. BD-1063 dose dependently reduced ethanol self-administration in sP rats (3.3-11 mg/kg) and withdrawn, dependent Wistar rats (4-11 mg/kg) at doses that did not modify mean ethanol self-administration in nondependent Wistar controls. BD-1063 did not reduce concurrent water self-administration and did not comparably suppress saccharin self-administration, suggesting selectivity of action. BD-1063 also reduced the breakpoints of sP rats to work for ethanol under a progressive-ratio reinforcement schedule. Ethanol-naive sP rats and 24-h withdrawn, dependent Wistar rats showed reduced Sig-1R mRNA expression in the nucleus accumbens. The results suggest that SigR systems may contribute to innate or ethanol-induced increases in susceptibility to self-administer high ethanol levels, identifying a potential neuroadaptive mechanism contributing to excessive drinking and a therapeutic target for alcohol abuse and dependence.

Selective sigma receptor agonist 2-(4-morpholinethyl)1-phenylcyclohexanecarboxylate (PRE084) promotes neuroprotection and neurite elongation through protein kinase C (PKC) signaling on motoneurons

Neuronal loss and interruption of axonal pathways are occurring after spinal cord injury. This is initiated by the mechanical damage and propagated by secondary events that include the fast rise of glutamate concentration and the subsequent over-activation of glutamate receptors, triggering noxious processes to the cell. Excitotoxic processes are also observed in degenerative diseases that involve motoneuron loss. Sigma-1 receptors (Sig-1Rs) are expressed in the CNS and their ligands have been shown to prevent neuronal death associated to glutamate toxicity. In the present study, we used organotypic cultures of spinal cord slices and dorsal root ganglia (DRG) explants from 7-8 days old postnatal rats to assess whether the agonist of the Sig-1R, 2-(4-morpholinethyl)1-phenylcyclohexanecarboxylate (PRE084), protects the spinal cord against glutamate excitotoxicity and promotes neurite elongation. The results showed that PRE084 exerted a bell-shape dose-dependent protective response of the motoneurons, with a significant neuroprotection obtained with 10 microM PRE084. PRE084 also caused an increase in the length of neurites in both motoneurons and neurons in DRG explants. Both effects were abrogated with the addition of BD 1063, an antagonist of Sig-1R, and the use of chelerythrine, a protein kinase C (PKC) pan-inhibitor indicating that PKC is implicated in the observed effects. These results suggest the use of PRE084 as a neuroprotective agent for spinal cord damage.

Voltage-gated sodium channel modulation by sigma-receptors in cardiac myocytes and heterologous systems

The sigma-receptor, a broadly distributed integral membrane protein with a novel structure, is known to modulate various voltage-gated K(+) and Ca(2+) channels through a mechanism that involves neither G proteins nor phosphorylation. The present study investigated the modulation of the heart voltage-gated Na(+) channel (Na(v)1.5) by sigma-receptors. The sigma(1)-receptor ligands [SKF-10047 and (+)-pentazocine] and sigma(1)/sigma(2)-receptor ligands (haloperidol and ditolylguanidine) all reversibly inhibited Na(v)1.5 channels to varying degrees in human embryonic kidney 293 (HEK-293) cells and COS-7 cells, but the sigma(1)-receptor ligands were less effective in COS-7 cells. The same four ligands also inhibited Na(+) current in neonatal mouse cardiac myocytes. In sigma(1)-receptor knockout myocytes, the sigma(1)-receptor-specific ligands were far less effective in modulating Na(+) current, but the sigma(1)/sigma(2)-receptor ligands modulated Na(+) channels as well as in wild type. Photolabeling with the sigma(1)-receptor photoprobe [(125)I]-iodoazidococaine demonstrated that sigma(1)-receptors were abundant in heart and HEK-293 cells, but scarce in COS-7 cells. This difference was consistent with the greater efficacy of sigma(1)-receptor-specific ligands in HEK-293 cells than in COS-7 cells. sigma-Receptors modulated Na(+) channels despite the omission of GTP and ATP from the patch pipette solution. sigma-Receptor-mediated inhibition of Na(+) current had little if any voltage dependence and produced no change in channel kinetics. Na(+) channels represent a new addition to the large number of voltage-gated ion channels modulated by sigma-receptors. The modulation of Na(v)1.5 channels by sigma-receptors in the heart suggests an important pathway by which drugs can alter cardiac excitability and rhythmicity.

The sigma1 receptor interacts with N-alkyl amines and endogenous sphingolipids

The sigma1 receptor is distinguished for its ability to bind various pharmacological agents including drugs of abuse such as cocaine and methamphetamine. Some endogenous ligands have been identified as putative sigma1 receptor regulators. High affinity ligands for the sigma1 receptor contain a nitrogen atom connected to long alkyl chains. We found that long alkyl chain primary amines including endogenous amines belonging to the sphingolipid family such as D-erythro-sphingosine and sphinganine bind with considerable affinity to the sigma1 receptor but not to the sigma2 receptor. The binding of D-erythro-sphingosine to the sigma1 receptor appears to be competitive in nature as assessed against the radioligand [3H]-(+)-pentazocine. Interestingly, the well studied sphingolipid mediator sphingosine-1 phosphate did not bind to the sigma1 or the sigma2 receptor. Sphingosine is converted to sphingosine-1 phosphate by a family of sphingosine kinases that regulate the relative levels of these two bioactive lipids in the cell. The selective binding of sphingosine but not sphingosine-1 phosphate to the sigma1 receptor suggests a mechanism for regulation of sigma1 receptor activity by the sphingosine kinase. We have successfully reconstituted this hypothetical model in HEK-293 cells overexpressing both the sigma1 receptor and sphingosine kinase-1. The data presented here strongly supports sphingosine as an endogenous modulator of the sigma1 receptor.

When the endogenous hallucinogenic trace amine N,N-dimethyltryptamine meets the sigma-1 receptor

N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT) is a hallucinogen found endogenously in human brain that is commonly recognized to target the 5-hydroxytryptamine 2A receptor or the trace amine-associated receptor to exert its psychedelic effect. DMT has been recently shown to bind sigma-1 receptors, which are ligand-regulated molecular chaperones whose function includes inhibiting various voltage-sensitive ion channels. Thus, it is possible that the psychedelic action of DMT might be mediated in part through sigma-1 receptors. Here, we present a hypothetical signaling scheme that might be triggered by the binding of DMT to sigma-1 receptors.

The hallucinogen N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT) is an endogenous sigma-1 receptor regulator

The sigma-1 receptor is widely distributed in the central nervous system and periphery. Originally mischaracterized as an opioid receptor, the sigma-1 receptor binds a vast number of synthetic compounds but does not bind opioid peptides; it is currently considered an orphan receptor. The sigma-1 receptor pharmacophore includes an alkylamine core, also found in the endogenous compound N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT). DMT acts as a hallucinogen, but its receptor target has been unclear. DMT bound to sigma-1 receptors and inhibited voltage-gated sodium ion (Na+) channels in both native cardiac myocytes and heterologous cells that express sigma-1 receptors. DMT induced hypermobility in wild-type mice but not in sigma-1 receptor knockout mice. These biochemical, physiological, and behavioral experiments indicate that DMT is an endogenous agonist for the sigma-1 receptor.

Relationships between the structure of 6-substituted 6,8-diazabicyclo[3.2.2]nonan-2-ones and their sigma receptor affinity and cytotoxic activity

A series of 2-oxo-6,8-diazabicyclo[3.2.2]nonane derivatives was prepared and the affinity towards sigma(1) and sigma(2) receptors was investigated by means of radioligand binding assays as well as their inhibition of the growth of six human tumor cell lines was studied. Starting from the enantiopure bicyclic ketones 3 and ent-3 bridged piperazines with different residues in position 6 were synthesized. The N-6 allyl protective group was removed by a RhCl(3) catalyzed double bond isomerization and subsequent hydrolysis of the resulting enamide 8. After acetalization the secondary amide 10 was alkylated and arylated. Structure affinity relationships show that a relatively large substituent, which has not necessarily to be an aromatic one, is required in position 6 for high sigma(1) receptor affinity (e.g., 12 and ent-12 with a dimethylallyl residue: K(i)=20 nM and 17 nM). Furthermore, it was shown that substituents that reduce the basicity of N-6 led to a severe decrease in sigma(1) affinity. Growth inhibition experiments with six human tumor cell lines revealed that the allyl and benzyl substituted 6,8-diazabicyclo[3.2.2]nonan-2-one derivatives 5, ent-5 and ent-14 are able to selectively inhibit the growth of the bladder cancer cell line 5637.

Attenuation of methamphetamine-induced effects through the antagonism of sigma (sigma) receptors: Evidence from in vivo and in vitro studies

Methamphetamine (METH) and many other abused substances interact with sigma receptors. sigma receptors are found on dopaminergic neurons and can modulate dopaminergic neurotransmission. Antisense knock down of sigma receptors also mitigates METH-induced stimulant effects, suggesting that these proteins are viable medication development targets for treating psychostimulant abuse. In the present study, AC927, a sigma receptor antagonist, was evaluated for its ability to attenuate METH-induced effects in vivo and in vitro. Radioligand binding studies showed that AC927 had preferential affinity for sigma receptors compared to 29 other receptors, transporters and ion channels. Pretreatment of male, Swiss Webster mice with AC927 significantly attenuated METH-induced locomotor stimulation, striatal dopamine depletions, striatal dopamine transporter reductions, and hyperthermia. When the neurotoxicity of METH was further examined in vitro under temperature-controlled conditions, co-incubation with AC927 mitigated METH-induced cytotoxicity. Together, the results demonstrate that AC927 protects against METH-induced effects, and suggests a new strategy for treating psychostimulant abuse.

Relationships between the structure of 6-allyl-6,8-diazabicyclo[3.2.2]nonane derivatives and their sigma receptor affinity and cytotoxic activity

A series of bridged piperazine derivatives was prepared and the affinity toward sigma(1) and sigma(2) receptors by means of radioligand binding assays as well as the inhibition of the growth of six human tumor cell lines was investigated. All possible stereoisomers of the 2-hydroxy, 2-methoxy, 2,2-dimethoxy, 2-oxo, and 2-unsubstituted 6,8-diazabicyclo[3.2.2]nonanes were prepared in a chiral pool synthesis starting with (S)- and (R)-glutamate. A Dieckmann analogous cyclization was the key step in the synthesis of the bicyclic framework. The configuration in position 2 was established by a diastereoselective LiBH(4) reduction and subsequent Mitsunobu inversion. Structure-affinity relationships demonstrate that substituents in position 2 decrease sigma(1) receptor affinity which might be due to unfavorable interactions with the sigma(1) receptor protein. Without a substituent in position 2 high sigma(1) affinity was obtained (23a ((+)-(1S,5S)-6-allyl-8-(4-methoxybenzyl)-6,8-diazabicyclo[3.2.2]nonane): K(i)=11 nM). Experiments with six human tumor cell lines showed a weak but selective growth inhibition of the human small cell lung cancer cell line A-427 by the methyl ethers ent-16b (IC(50)=18.9 microM), 21a (IC(50)=16.4 microM), ent-21a (IC(50)=20.4 microM), and 21b (IC(50)=27.1 microM) and the unsubstituted compounds 23a and 23b (42% inhibition at 20 microM).

sigma-1 receptor modulation of acid-sensing ion channel a (ASIC1a) and ASIC1a-induced Ca2+ influx in rat cortical neurons

Acid-sensing ion channels (ASICs) are proton-gated cation channels found in peripheral and central nervous system neurons. The ASIC1a subtype, which has high Ca2+ permeability, is activated by ischemia-induced acidosis and contributes to the neuronal loss that accompanies ischemic stroke. Our laboratory has shown that activation of sigma receptors depresses ion channel activity and [Ca2+](i) dysregulation during ischemia, which enhances neuronal survival. Whole-cell patch-clamp electrophysiology and fluorometric Ca2+ imaging were used to determine whether sigma receptors regulate the function of ASIC in cultured rat cortical neurons. Bath application of the selective ASIC1a blocker, psalmotoxin1, decreased proton-evoked [Ca2+](i) transients and peak membrane currents, suggesting the presence of homomeric ASIC1a channels. The pan-selective sigma-1/sigma-2 receptor agonists, 1,3-di-o-tolyl-guanidine (100 microM) and opipramol (10 microM), reversibly decreased acid-induced elevations in [Ca2+](i) and membrane currents. Pharmacological experiments using sigma receptor-subtype-specific agonists demonstrated that sigma-1, but not sigma-2, receptors inhibit ASIC1a-induced Ca2+ elevations. These results were confirmed using the irreversible sigma receptor antagonist metaphit (50 microM) and the selective sigma-1 antagonist BD1063 (10 nM), which obtunded the inhibitory effects of the sigma-1 agonist, carbetapentane. Activation of ASIC1a was shown to stimulate downstream Ca2+ influx pathways, specifically N-methyl-D-aspartate and (+/-)-alpha-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methylisoxazole-4-propionic acid/kainate receptors and voltage-gated Ca2+ channels. These subsequent Ca2+ influxes were also inhibited upon activation of sigma-1 receptors. These findings demonstrate that sigma-1 receptor stimulation inhibits ASIC1a-mediated membrane currents and consequent intracellular Ca2+ accumulation. The ability to control ionic imbalances and Ca2+ dysregulation evoked by ASIC1a activation makes sigma receptors an attractive target for ischemic stroke therapy.

Role of sigma-1 receptor C-terminal segment in inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor activation: constitutive enhancement of calcium signaling in MCF-7 tumor cells

Sigma-1 receptor (sigma-1R) agonists enhance inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3)-dependent calcium release from endoplasmic reticulum by inducing dissociation of ankyrin B 220 (ANK 220) from the IP3 receptor (IP3R-3), releasing it from inhibition. MCF-7 breast tumor cells express little or no sigma-1R and were used here to investigate the effect of receptor overexpression and the role of its N- and C-terminal segments in function. We stably expressed intact sigma-1R (amino acids (aa) 1-223; lines 11 and 41), N-fragment (aa 1-100; line K3), or C-fragment (aa 102-223; line sg101). C-fragment expressed as a peripheral membrane-bound protein that was removable from the endoplasmic reticulum membrane by chaotropic salt wash, consistent with lack of a putative transmembrane domain. The expressed sigma-1R, N-fragment, and C-fragment exhibited normal, low affinity, and no [3H](+)-pentazocine binding activity, respectively. All transfected lines showed constitutive enhancement of bradykinin (BDK)-induced calcium release, because of a decrease in BDK ED50 values. Interestingly, sigma-1R and C-fragment had high activities, whereas the N-fragment was much less active. The antagonist BD1063 behaved as an inverse agonist in sigma-1R cells, whereas C-fragment was insensitive to ligand regulation. Like BDK, vasopressin- and ATP-induced calcium release was enhanced with the same pattern in cell lines. Anti-IP3R-3 immunoprecipitates from cells expressing sigma-1R or C-fragment contained significantly less ANK 220 compared with untransfected or N-fragment cells, indicating a higher amount of ankyrin-free IP3R-3. Anti-ankyrin B immunoprecipitates contained sigma-1R or C-fragment, with markedly lower levels of N-fragment present. These results suggest that sigma-1R overexpression drives sigma agonist-independent dissociation of ANK 220 from IP3R-3, resulting in activation. The C-terminal segment plays a key role in the interaction.

Juxtaposition of the steroid binding domain-like I and II regions constitutes a ligand binding site in the sigma-1 receptor

sigma-1 receptors represent unique binding sites that are capable of interacting with a wide range of compounds to mediate different cellular events. The composition of the ligand binding site of this receptor is unclear, since no NMR or crystal structures are available. Recent studies in our laboratory using radiolabeled photoreactive ligands suggested that the steroid binding domain-like I (SBDLI) (amino acids 91-109) and the steroid binding domain-like II (SBDLII) (amino acids 176-194) regions are involved in forming the ligand binding site(s) ( Chen, Y., Hajipour, A. R., Sievert, M. K., Arbabian, M., and Ruoho, A. E. (2007) Biochemistry 46, 3532-3542 ; Pal, A., Hajipour, A. R., Fontanilla, D., Ramachandran, S., Chu, U. B., Mavlyutov, T., and Ruoho, A. E. (2007) Mol. Pharmacol. 72, 921-933 ). In this report, we have further addressed this issue by utilizing our previously developed sulfhydryl-reactive, cleavable, radioiodinated photocross-linking reagent: methanesulfonothioic acid, S-((4-(4-amino-3-[125I]iodobenzoyl) phenyl)methyl) ester (Guo, L. W., Hajipour, A. R., Gavala, M. L., Arbabian, M., Martemyanov, K. A., Arshavsky, V. Y., and Ruoho, A. E. (2005) Bioconjugate Chem. 16, 685-693). This photoprobe was shown to derivatize the single cysteine residues as mixed disulfides at position 94 in the SBDLI region of the wild type guinea pig sigma-1 receptor (Cys94) and at position 190 in the SBDLII region of a mutant guinea pig sigma-1 receptor (C94A,V190C), both in a sigma-ligand (haloperidol or (+)-pentazocine)-sensitive manner. Significantly, photocross-linking followed by Endo Lys-C cleavage under reducing conditions and intramolecular radiolabel transfer from the SBDLI to the SBDLII region in the wild type receptor and, conversely, from the SBDLII to the SBDLI region in the mutant receptor were observed. These data support a model in which the SBDLI and SBDLII regions are juxtaposed to form, at least in part, a ligand binding site of the sigma-1 receptor.

An unambiguous assay for the cloned human sigma1 receptor reveals high affinity interactions with dopamine D4 receptor selective compounds and a distinct structure-affinity relationship for butyrophenones

The ability of the sigma(1) receptor to interact with a huge range of drug structural classes coupled with its wide distribution in the body has contributed to it being implicated as a possible therapeutic target for a broad array of disorders ranging from substance abuse to depression to Alzheimer's disease. Surprisingly, the reported affinity values for some sigma(1) receptor ligands vary more than 50-fold. The potential of the sigma(1) receptor as a pharmacotherapeutic target prompted us to develop an unambiguous assay system for measuring the affinity of ligands to the cloned human sigma(1) receptor. In the course of characterizing this system and determining the true affinity values for almost three dozen compounds, it was discovered that some dopamine D(4) receptor selective compounds bind sigma(1) receptors with high affinity. A systematic analysis of haloperidol-like compounds revealed a clear structure-affinity relationship amongst clinically relevant butyrophenones. The antidepressant fluvoxamine, the drug of abuse methamphetamine, and the neurosteroid progesterone were amongst the many ligands whose interactions with the sigma(1) receptor were confirmed with our screening assay.

An update on the development of drugs for neuropsychiatric disorders: focusing on the sigma 1 receptor ligand

The sigma1 receptor is an intracellular molecule that shares no homology with any mammalian proteins. sigma1 receptors normally localize at the endoplasmic reticulum and regulate a variety of signal transductions including intracellular Ca2+ dynamics and neurotrophic factor signaling. In the brain, sigma1 receptors are known to regulate the activity of diverse ion channels via protein-protein interactions. Accumulated evidences strongly indicate that the activation/upregulation of sigma1 receptors promotes the neuronal differentiation as well as a robust antiapoptotic action. In animals, sigma1 receptor agonists exhibit an antidepressant-like action. Furthermore, the agonists enhanced neuronal survival eventhough they were administered several hours after a brain ischemia. Thus, primary clinical targets of sigma1 receptor ligands are proposed to include stroke, neurodegenerative disorders and depression. Ligands for the sigma1 receptor may constitute a new class of therapeutic drugs targeting an endoplasmic reticular protein.

Sigma-1 receptors bind cholesterol and remodel lipid rafts in breast cancer cell lines

Lipid rafts are membrane platforms that spatially organize molecules for specific signaling pathways that regulate various cellular functions. Cholesterol is critical for liquid-ordered raft formation by serving as a spacer between the hydrocarbon chains of sphingolipids, and alterations in the cholesterol contents of the plasma membrane causes disruption of rafts. The role that sigma receptors play in cancer is not clear, although it is frequently up-regulated in human cancer cells and tissues and sigma receptors inhibit proliferation in carcinoma and melanoma cell lines, induce apoptosis in colon and mammary carcinoma cell lines, and reduce cellular adhesion in mammary carcinoma cell lines. In this study, we provide molecular and functional evidence for the involvement of the enigmatic sigma 1 receptors in lipid raft modeling by sigma 1 receptor-mediated cholesterol alteration of lipid rafts in breast cancer cell lines. Cholesterol binds to cholesterol recognition domains in the COOH terminus of the sigma 1 receptor. This binding is blocked by sigma receptor drugs because the cholesterol-binding domains form part of the sigma receptor drug-binding site, mutations of which abolish cholesterol binding. Furthermore, we outline a hypothetical functional model to explain the myriad of biological processes, including cancer, in which these mysterious receptors are involved. The findings of this study provide a biological basis for the potential therapeutic applications of lipid raft cholesterol regulation in cancer therapy using sigma receptor drugs.

Sigma-1 receptor chaperones at the ER-mitochondrion interface regulate Ca(2+) signaling and cell survival

Communication between the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and mitochondrion is important for bioenergetics and cellular survival. The ER supplies Ca(2+) directly to mitochondria via inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptors (IP3Rs) at close contacts between the two organelles referred to as mitochondrion-associated ER membrane (MAM). We found here that the ER protein sigma-1 receptor (Sig-1R), which is implicated in neuroprotection, carcinogenesis, and neuroplasticity, is a Ca(2+)-sensitive and ligand-operated receptor chaperone at MAM. Normally, Sig-1Rs form a complex at MAM with another chaperone, BiP. Upon ER Ca(2+) depletion or via ligand stimulation, Sig-1Rs dissociate from BiP, leading to a prolonged Ca(2+) signaling into mitochondria via IP3Rs. Sig-1Rs can translocate under chronic ER stress. Increasing Sig-1Rs in cells counteracts ER stress response, whereas decreasing them enhances apoptosis. These results reveal that the orchestrated ER chaperone machinery at MAM, by sensing ER Ca(2+) concentrations, regulates ER-mitochondrial interorganellar Ca(2+) signaling and cell survival.

Novel sigma (sigma) receptor agonists produce antidepressant-like effects in mice

Many antidepressant drugs interact with sigma receptors and accumulating evidence suggests that these proteins mediate antidepressant-like effects in animals and humans. sigma Receptors are localized in brain regions affected in depression, further strengthening the hypothesis that they represent logical drug development targets. In this study, two novel sigma receptor agonists (UMB23, UMB82) were evaluated for antidepressant-like activity in mice. First, radioligand binding studies confirmed that the novel compounds had preferential affinity for sigma receptors. Second, the forced swim test, a well established animal model for screening potential antidepressant drugs, showed that both compounds dose-dependently reduced immobility time. The sigma receptor antagonist BD1047 attenuated the antidepressant-like effects of UMB23 and UMB82. Third, locomotor activity suggested that the effects of UMB23 and UMB82 in the forced swim test were not due to non-specific motor activating effects. Together, the data provide further evidence that sigma receptor agonists represent a possible new class of antidepressant medication.

Synthesis of bicyclic sigma receptor ligands with cytotoxic activity

All possible stereoisomeric alcohols (6-benzyl-8-(4-methoxybenzyl)-6,8-diazabicyclo[3.2.2]nonan-2-ol) and methyl ethers (6-benzyl-2-methoxy-8-(4-methoxybenzyl)-6,8-diazabicyclo[3.2.2]nonane) are prepared from (R)- and (S)-glutamate. A Dieckmann analogous cyclization, which makes use of trapping the primary cyclization product with Me3SiCl, generates the bicyclic framework. Stereoselective LiBH4 reduction and Mitsunobu inversion establish the configuration in position 2. Enantiomeric alcohols 15 (1S,2S,5R) and ent-15 (1R,2R,5S) as well as diastereomeric methyl ethers ent-17 (1R,2R,5S) and ent-22 (1R,2S,5S) display high sigma1 receptor affinity. Cell growth inhibition of the stereoisomeric alcohols and methyl ethers against five human tumor cell lines is investigated. In particular, at a concentration of 20 muM the four methyl ethers stop completely the cell growth of the small cell lung cancer cell line A-427, indicating a specific target in this cell line. The IC50-values of methyl ethers ent-17 and ent-22 are in the range of the antitumor drugs cisplatin and oxaliplatin. Binding assays show that the investigated tumor cell lines express considerable amounts of sigma1 and sigma2 receptors.

Identification of regions of the sigma-1 receptor ligand binding site using a novel photoprobe

sigma Receptors, once considered a class of opioid receptors, are now regarded as a unique class of receptors that contain binding sites for a wide range of ligands, including the drug 1-N(2',6'-dimethylmorpholino)3-(4-t-butylpropylamine) (fenpropimorph), a yeast sterol isomerase inhibitor. Because fenpropimorph has high-binding affinity to the sigma-1 receptor, we have synthesized a series of fenpropimorph-like derivatives with varying phenyl ring substituents and have characterized their binding affinities to the sigma-1 receptor. In addition, we have synthesized a carrier-free, radioiodinated fenpropimorph-like photoaffinity label, 1-N-(2',6'-dimethyl-morpholino)-3-(4-azido-3-[(125)I]iodo-phenyl)propane ([(125)I]IAF), which covalently derivatized the sigma-1 receptor (25.3 kDa) in both the rat liver and guinea pig liver membranes and the sigma-2 receptor (18 kDa) in rat liver membranes with high specificity. Furthermore, after cleaving the specific [(125)I]IAF-photolabeled sigma-1 receptor in guinea pig and rat liver membranes and the pure guinea pig sigma-1 receptor with EndoLys-C and cyanogen bromide, the [(125)I]IAF label was identified both in a peptide containing steroid binding domain-like I (SBDLI) (amino acids 91-109) and in a peptide containing steroid binding domain-like II (SBDLII) (amino acids 176-194). Because a single population of binding sites (R(2) = 0.992) for [(125)I]IAF interaction with the sigma-1 receptor was identified by (+)-[(3)H]pentazocine competitive binding with nonradioactive [(127)I]IAF, it was concluded that SBDLI (amino acids 91-109) and SBDLII (amino acids 176-194) comprises, at least in part, regions of the sigma-1 receptor ligand binding site(s).

Ligand-dependent localization and intracellular stability of sigma-1 receptors in CHO-K1 cells

Background

Sigma-1 receptors are involved in regulation of neuronal activities presumably through regulation of the activity of ion channels. Sigma-1 receptors also play a role in growth and metastasis of cancerous cells. Intracellular distribution of sigma-1 receptors have been linked to sphingolipid-enriched domains.

Results

We report that in CHO-K1 cells sigma-1 receptors target to focal adhesion contacts (FAC) where they colocalize with Talin and Kv1.4 potassium channels. The levels of sigma-1 receptors in the FAC were significantly increased by application of sigma-1 receptor ligands and by filamentous actin (F-actin) polymerization with phalloidin. The total length of FAC (measured by the focal adhesion marker, talin) was concomitantly increased in the presence of sigma-1 receptors upon phalloidin treatment. Only sigma-1 receptor ligands, however, resulted in an increase of sigma-1 receptors in the FAC, independent of talin. Additionally, a novel approach was utilized to allow an assessment of the half life of endogenous sigma-1 receptors in CHO-K1 cells, which was measured to be at least 72 hours.

Conclusion

Ligand activated sigma-1 receptors translocate into FAC from a pool of receptors stored in ER lipid rafts presumably for inhibition of Kv1.4 channels. Stabilization of actin filaments is likely to be important for targeting sigma-1 receptors to Focal Adhesion Contacts in CHO-K1 cells.

Modulation of brainstem opiate analgesia in the rat by sigma 1 receptors: a microinjection study

sigma(1) Receptors have been implicated in the modulation of opioid analgesia. In the current study, we examined the role of sigma(1) systems in the periaqueductal gray (PAG), the rostroventral medulla (RVM), and the locus coeruleus (LC) of the rat, regions previously shown to be sensitive to morphine. Morphine was a potent analgesic in all three regions. Coadministration of the sigma(1) agonist (+)-pentazocine diminished the analgesic actions of morphine in all three regions, although the PAG was far less sensitive than the other two regions. Blockade of the sigma(1) receptors with haloperidol in the RVM markedly enhanced the analgesic actions of coadministered morphine, implying a tonic activity of the sigma(1) system in this region. This effect was mimicked by down-regulation of RVM sigma(1) receptors using an antisense approach. However, no tonic sigma(1) activity was observed in either the LC or the PAG. The RVM also was important in modulating analgesia elicited from morphine microinjected into the PAG. The analgesic actions of morphine given into the PAG could be attenuated by (+)-pentazocine placed into the RVM, whereas haloperidol in the RVM enhanced PAG morphine analgesia. These studies illustrate the pharmacological importance of sigma(1) receptors in the brainstem modulation of opioid analgesia.

σ2-Receptor Ligand-Mediated Inhibition of Inwardly Rectifying K+ Channels in the Heart

The sigma(2)-receptor agonist, ifenprodil, was suggested as an inhibitor of G protein-coupled inwardly rectifying potassium channels. Nevertheless, an analysis of the role of sigma(2) receptors in cardiac electrophysiology has never been done. This work aims i) to identify the roles of cardiac sigma(2) receptors in the regulation of cardiac K(+) channel conductances and ii) to check whether sigma(2)-receptor agonists exhibit class III antiarrhythmic properties. The sigma(2)-receptor agonists ifenprodil, threo-ifenprodil, LNP250A [threo-8-[1-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-1-hydroxy-propan-2-yl]-1-phenyl-1,3,8-triazaspiro[4,5]decane-4-one] (a derivative of ifenprodil devoid of alpha(1)-adrenergic and N-methyl-d-aspartate glutamate receptor-blocking properties), and 1,3-di(2-tolyl)guanidine were used to discriminate the effects linked to sigma(2) receptors from those of the sigma(1) subtype, induced by (+/-)-N-allylnormetazocine (SKF-10,047). The sigma(2)-receptor antagonist 3-alpha-tropanyl-2(pCl-phenoxy)butyrate (SM-21) was employed to characterize sigma(2)-mediated effects in patch-clamp experiments. In rabbits, all sigma(2)-receptor agonists reduced phenylephrine-induced cardiac arrhythmias. They prolonged action potential duration in rabbit Purkinje fibers and reduced human ether-a-go-go-related gene (HERG) K(+) currents. (+)-SKF-10,047 was completely inactive in the last two tests. The effects of threo-ifenprodil were not antagonized by SM-21. In HERG-transfected COS-7 cells, SM-21 potentiated the ifenprodil-induced blockade of the HERG current. These data suggest that sigma(2)-receptor ligands block I(Kr) and that this effect could explain part of the antiarrhythmic properties of this ligands family. Nevertheless, an interaction with HERG channels not involving sigma(2) receptors seems to share this pharmacological property. This work shows for the first time that particular caution has to be taken toward ligands with affinity for sigma(2) receptors. The repolarization prolongation and the early-afterdepolarization can be responsible for "torsades de pointe" and sudden cardiac death.

Purification and characterization of the guinea pig sigma-1 receptor functionally expressed in Escherichia coli

Sigma receptors once considered as a class of opioid receptors are now regarded as unique orphan receptors, distinguished by the ability to bind various pharmacological agents such as the progesterone (steroid), haloperidol (anti-psychotic), and drugs of abuse such as cocaine and methamphetamine. The sigma-1 receptor is a 223 amino acid protein, proposed to have two transmembrane segments. We have developed a scheme for the purification of the guinea pig sigma-1 receptor following overexpression in Escherichia coli as a maltose binding protein (MBP) fusion and extraction with Triton X-100. Affinity chromatography using an amylose column and Ni2+ affinity column was used to purify the sigma-1 receptor. The sigma-1 receptor purified by this method is a 26 kDa polypeptide as assessed by SDS-PAGE, binds sigma ligands with high affinity and can be specifically photoaffinity labeled with the sigma-1 receptor photoprobe, [125I]-iodoazidococaine. Ligand binding using [3H]-(+)-pentazocine indicated that approximately half of the purified protein in Triton X-100 bound to radioligand. The MBP-sigma-1 receptor and the sigma-1 receptor in 0.5% triton were maximally stable for approximately two weeks at -20 degrees C in buffer containing 30% glycerol.

Cancer cell cycle modulated by a functional coupling between sigma-1 receptors and Cl- channels

The sigma-1 receptor is an intracellular protein characterized as a tumor biomarker whose function remains mysterious. We demonstrate herein for the first time that highly selective sigma ligands inhibit volume-regulated chloride channels (VRCC) in small cell lung cancer and T-leukemia cells. Sigma ligands and VRCC blockers provoked a cell cycle arrest underlined by p27 accumulation. In stably sigma-1 receptor-transfected HEK cells, the proliferation rate was significantly lowered by sigma ligands when compared with control cells. Sigma ligands produced a strong inhibition of VRCC in HEK-transfected cells but not in control HEK. Surprisingly, the activation rate of VRCC was dramatically delayed in HEK-transfected cells in the absence of ligands, indicating that sigma-1 receptors per se modulate cell regulating volume processes in physiological conditions. Volume measurements in hypotonic conditions revealed indeed that the regulatory volume decrease was delayed in HEK-transfected cells and virtually abolished in the presence of igmesine in both HEK-transfected and T-leukemic cells. Moreover, HEK-transfected cells showed a significant resistance to staurosporine-induced apoptosis volume decrease, indicating that sigma-1 receptors protect cancer cells from apoptosis. Altogether, our results show for the first time that sigma-1 receptors modulate "cell destiny" through VRCC and cell volume regulation.

The sigma-1 receptor modulates NMDA receptor synaptic transmission and plasticity via SK channels in rat hippocampus

The sigma receptor (sigmaR), once considered a subtype of the opioid receptor, is now described as a distinct pharmacological entity. Modulation of N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) functions by sigmaR-1 ligands is well documented; however, its mechanism is not fully understood. Using patch-clamp whole-cell recordings in CA1 pyramidal cells of rat hippocampus and (+)pentazocine, a high-affinity sigmaR-1 agonist, we found that sigmaR-1 activation potentiates NMDAR responses and long-term potentiation (LTP) by preventing a small conductance Ca2+-activated K+ current (SK channels), known to shunt NMDAR responses, to open. Therefore, the block of SK channels and the resulting increased Ca2+ influx through the NMDAR enhances NMDAR responses and LTP. These results emphasize the importance of the sigmaR-1 as postsynaptic regulator of synaptic transmission.

Protein kinase A activation down-regulates, whereas extracellular signal-regulated kinase activation up-regulates sigma-1 receptors in B-104 cells: Implication for neuroplasticity

The sigma-1 receptor (Sig-1R) can bind psychostimulants and was shown to be up-regulated in the brain of methamphetamine self-administering rats. Up-regulation of Sig-1Rs has been implicated in neuroplasticity. However, the mechanism(s) whereby Sig-1Rs are up-regulated by psychostimulants is unknown. Here, we employed a neuroblastoma cell line B-104, devoid of dopamine receptors and transporter, and examined the effects of psychostimulants as well as cAMP on the expression of Sig-1Rs in this cell line, with a specific goal to identify signal transduction pathway(s) that may regulate Sig-1R expression. Chronic treatments of B-104 cells with physiological concentrations of cocaine or methamphetamine failed to alter the expression of Sig-1Rs. N6,2'-O-Dibutyryl-cAMP (dB-cAMP), when used at 0.5 mM, caused a down-regulation of Sig-1Rs that could be blocked by a protein kinase A (PKA) inhibitor, N-[2-(p-bromocinnamylamino)ethyl]-5-isoquinolinesulfonamide dihydrochloride (H-89). However, dB-cAMP, when used at 2 mM, caused an up-regulation of Sig-1Rs that was insensitive to the H-89 blockade but was partially blocked by an extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK)/mitogen-activated protein kinase inhibitor PD98059 (2'-amino-3'-methoxyflavone). Furthermore, 2 mM dB-cAMP induced an ERK phosphorylation lasting at least 90 min, at which time the phosphorylation caused by 0.5 mM dB-cAMP had already diminished. PD98059, applied 90 min after addition of 2 mM dB-cAMP, attenuated the Sig-1R up-regulation. Our results indicate that cAMP is bimodal in regulating Sig-1R expression: a down-regulation via PKA and an up-regulation via ERK. Results also suggest that psychostimulants may manipulate the cAMP-PKA-Sig-1R and/or the cAMP-ERK-Sig-1R pathways to achieve a neuroplasticity that favors addictive behaviors.

Interactions between 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine and sigma1 receptors

Methamphetamine and 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) are structurally similar and represent a serious and growing health threat. Earlier studies in our laboratory have shown that methamphetamine interacts with sigma receptors and that antagonism of these receptors can attenuate methamphetamine-induced locomotor stimulation and neurotoxicity. However, no research exists which characterizes the interaction between sigma receptors and MDMA. Therefore, the goal of the present study was to determine whether sigma receptors are involved in the actions of MDMA. In the first part of the study, competition and saturation binding assays were performed to measure the interaction of MDMA with sigma receptors. The receptor binding assays revealed that MDMA interacts preferentially with the sigma(1) subtype, as compared to the sigma(2) subtype, and that this interaction occurs in a competitive manner. The second part of the study focused on behavioral measurements in male, Swiss Webster mice to determine whether a selective sigma(1) receptor antagonist, BD1063 (1-[2-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)ethyl]-4-methylpiperazine, 0-30 mg/kg, i.p.) could attenuate the locomotor stimulant actions of MDMA (0-50 mg/kg, i.p.). BD1063 alone had no effect on locomotor activity, but dose-dependently attenuated the locomotor stimulant effects of MDMA and produced a significant shift to the right in the MDMA dose response curve. Together, the data support the functional relevance of the interaction of MDMA with sigma(1) receptors, and suggest that these receptors are involved in the stimulant actions of MDMA.

Expression, subcellular localization, and regulation of sigma receptor in retinal muller cells

PURPOSE

Sigma receptors (sigmaRs) are nonopioid, nonphencyclidine binding sites with robust neuroprotective properties. Type 1 sigmaR1 (sigmaR1) is expressed in brain oligodendrocytes, but its expression and binding capacity have not been analyzed in retinal glial cells. This study examined the expression, subcellular localization, binding activity, and regulation of sigmaR1 in retinal Müller cells.

METHODS

Primary mouse Müller cells (MCs) were analyzed by RT-PCR, immunoblotting, and immunocytochemistry for the expression of sigmaR1, and data were compared with those of the rat Müller cell line (rMC-1) and the rat ganglion cell line (RGC-5). Confocal microscopy was used to determine the subcellular sigmaR1 location in primary mouse MCs. Membranes prepared from these cells were used for binding assays with [3H]-pentazocine (PTZ). The kinetics of binding, the ability of various sigmaR1 ligands to compete with sigmaR1 binding, and the effects of donated nitric oxide (NO) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) on binding were examined.

RESULTS

sigmaR1 is expressed in primary mouse MCs and is localized to the nuclear and endoplasmic reticulum membranes. Binding assays showed that in primary mouse MCs, rMC-1, and RGC-5, the binding of PTZ was saturable. [3H]-PTZ bound with high affinity in RGC-5 and rMC-1 cells, and the binding was similarly robust in primary mouse MCs. Competition studies showed marked inhibition of [3H]-PTZ binding in the presence of sigmaR1-specific ligands. Incubation of cells with NO and ROS donors markedly increased sigmaR1 binding activity.

CONCLUSIONS

MCs express sigmaR1 and demonstrate robust sigmaR1 binding activity, which is inhibited by sigmaR1 ligands and is stimulated during oxidative stress. The potential of Müller cells to bind sigmaR1 ligands may prove beneficial in retinal degenerative diseases such as diabetic retinopathy.

Effect of haloperidol on transient outward potassium current in rat ventricular myocytes

Although sigma ligand haloperidol is known to affect repolarization in heart, its effect on potassium currents in cardiomyocytes has not yet been studied. We analyzed the effect of 1 micromol/l haloperidol on transient outward K(+) current (I(to)) in enzymatically isolated rat right ventricular cardiomyocytes using the whole-cell patch-clamp technique at room temperature. Haloperidol induced a decrease of amplitude and an acceleration of apparent inactivation of I(to), both in a voltage-independent manner. The averaged inhibition of I(to), evaluated as a change of its time integral, was 23.0+/-3.2% at stimulation frequency of 0.1 Hz. As a consequence of slow recovery of I(to) from the haloperidol-induced block (time constant 1482+/-783 ms), a cumulation of the block up to about 40% appeared at 3.3 Hz. We conclude that haloperidol causes a voltage-independent block of I(to) that cumulates at higher stimulation frequencies. Based on the computer reconstruction of experimental data, a block of I(to)-channels in both open and open-inactivated states appears to be likely mechanism of haloperidol-induced inhibition of I(to).

The expression and functional characterization of sigma (sigma) 1 receptors in breast cancer cell lines

Sigma (sigma) receptors have been implicated in cancer. However, to date there is little molecular data demonstrating the role of sigma1 receptors in cancer. Expression of sigma1 receptors in various human cancer cell lines in comparison to non-cancerous cell lines was investigated, using real time RT-PCR and by western blotting with a sigma1 receptor specific antibody. Our results indicate that cancer cells express higher levels of sigma1 receptors than corresponding non-cancerous cells. Localization of the sigma1 receptor was investigated in MDA-MB-231 cells by immunocytochemistry and confocal microscopy, expression was visualized predominantly at the cell periphery. We have tested the effect of sigma1 and sigma2 drugs and a sigma1 receptor silencing construct on various aspects of the metastatic process on two breast cell lines of different metastatic potential and a normal breast cell line. Both sigma1 and sigma2 drugs and the sigma1 receptor silencing construct had effects on proliferation and adhesion for breast cancer cell lines, compared to a non-cancerous breast cell line. This data suggests sigma1 receptor plays a role in proliferation and adhesion of breast cancer cells. Therefore, it is likely to be a potential target for the diagnosis and therapy of breast cancer.

Sulfated steroids as endogenous neuromodulators

Central nervous system function is critically dependent upon an exquisitely tuned balance between excitatory synaptic transmission, mediated primarily by glutamate, and inhibitory synaptic transmission, mediated primarily by GABA. Modulation of either excitation or inhibition would be expected to result in altered functionality of finely tuned synaptic pathways and global neural systems, leading to altered nervous system function. Administration of positive or negative modulators of ligand-gated ion channels has been used extensively and successfully in CNS therapeutics, particularly for the induction of sedation and treatment of anxiety, seizures, insomnia, and pain. Excessive activation of excitatory glutamate receptors, such as in cerebral ischemia, can result in neuronal damage via excitotoxic mechanisms. The discovery that neuroactive steroids exert rapid, direct effects upon the function of both excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmitter receptors has raised the possibility that endogenous neurosteroids may play a regulatory role in synaptic transmission by modulating the balance between excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmission. The sites to which neuroactive steroids bind may also serve as targets for the discovery of therapeutic neuromodulators.

Neuro(active)steroids actions at the neuromodulatory sigma1 (sigma1) receptor: biochemical and physiological evidences, consequences in neuroprotection

Steroids from peripheral sources or synthesized in the brain, i.e. neurosteroids, exert rapid modulations of neurotransmitter responses through specific interactions with membrane receptors, mainly the gamma-aminobutyric acid type A (GABA(A)) receptor and N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) type of glutamate receptor. Progesterone and 3alpha-hydroxy-5alpha-pregnan-20-one (allopregnanolone) act as inhibitory steroids while pregnenolone sulfate or dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate act as excitatory steroids. Some steroids also interact with an atypical protein, the sigma(1) (sigma(1)) receptor. This receptor has been cloned in several species and is centrally expressed in neurons and oligodendrocytes. Activation of the sigma(1) receptor modulates cellular Ca(2+) mobilization, particularly from endoplasmic reticulum pools, and contributes to the formation of lipid droplets, translocating towards the plasma membrane and contributing to the recomposition of lipid microdomains. The present review details the evidences showing that the sigma(1) receptor is a target for neurosteroids in physiological conditions. Analysis of the sigma(1) protein sequence confirmed homologies with the ERG2/emopamil binding protein family but also with the steroidogenic enzymes isopentenyl diphosphate isomerase and 17beta-estradiol dehydrogenase. Biochemical and physiological arguments for an interaction of neuro(active)steroids with the sigma(1) receptor are analyzed and the impact on physiopathological outcomes in neuroprotection is illustrated.

Cyclohexylpiperazine derivative PB28, a sigma2 agonist and sigma1 antagonist receptor, inhibits cell growth, modulates P-glycoprotein, and synergizes with anthracyclines in breast cancer

sigma Ligands have recently been shown to have cytotoxic activity, to induce ceramide-dependent/caspase-independent apoptosis, and to down-regulate P-glycoprotein (P-gp) mRNA levels in some mouse and human models. In this study, we verified whether a mixed sigma(2) agonist/sigma(1) antagonist, PB28, was able to have antitumor activity and to enhance anthracycline efficacy in two human breast cancer cell lines, MCF7 and MCF7 ADR, both characterized by significant sigma(2) receptor expression, by high and low sigma(1) receptor expression, and low and high P-gp expression, respectively. In both cell lines, PB28 showed high sigma(2) receptor affinity and low sigma(1) receptor affinity; furthermore, it inhibited cell growth with a clear effect at 48 hours (IC(50) in nanomolar range), a consistent time exposure-independent increase of G(0)-G(1)-phase fraction (of approximately 20% of both cell lines) and caspase-independent apoptosis (15% increased after 1-day drug exposure). PB28 also reduced P-gp expression in a concentration- and time-dependent manner ( approximately 60% in MCF7 and 90% in MCF7 ADR). We showed also a strong synergism between PB28 and doxorubicin by adopting either simultaneous or sequential schedules of the two drugs. We suggest that this synergism could depend on PB28-induced increase of intracellular accumulation of doxorubicin ( approximately 50% in MCF7 and 75% in MCF7 ADR by flow cytometry analysis). In conclusion, we suggest that the sigma(2) agonist PB28 could be an interesting antitumor agent either in monotherapy or in combination with conventional drugs.

N-[2-(m-methoxyphenyl)ethyl]-N-ethyl-2-(1-pyrrolidinyl)ethylamine (UMB 116) is a novel antagonist for cocaine-induced effects

Previous research has shown that sigma receptors participate in the actions of cocaine in the body. This has led to investigations of the use of novel agents such as BD1008, BD1067 and YZ-011 as cocaine antagonists. In the present study, three novel analogs (UMB115, UMB116, UMB117), representing composites of these earlier compounds, were evaluated in receptor binding and behavioral studies. In the receptor binding studies, the compounds were shown to have high affinity for sigma receptors and much lower affinities for non-sigma sites. For the behavioral experiments, Swiss Webster mice were pre-treated with saline or one of the novel compounds (0.1-10 mg/kg), followed 15 min later by a convulsive (60 mg/kg), lethal (125 mg/kg), or locomotor stimulatory (10 mg/kg) dose of cocaine. The results showed that UMB115, UMB116 and UMB117 significantly (P<0.05) inhibited cocaine-induced convulsions when administered as a pre-treatment to cocaine. Cocaine-induced lethality was significantly attenuated by UMB116 (P<0.05), but not by UMB115 and UMB117. All three compounds significantly (P<0.05) altered the locomotor stimulatory effects of cocaine, with UMB115 and UMB116 exhibiting attenuating actions. Together, the studies suggest UMB116 as a novel cocaine antagonist.

A Medicinal-Chemistry-Guided Approach to Selective and Druglike Sigma 1 Ligands

Based on a medicinal-chemistry-guided approach, three novel series of druglike cycloalkyl-annelated pyrazoles were synthesized and display high affinity (pKi>8) for the sigma1 receptor. Structure-affinity relationships were established, and the different scaffolds were optimized with respect to sigma1 binding and selectivity versus the sigma2 receptor and the hERG channel, resulting in selective compounds that have Ki values (for sigma1) in the subnanomolar range. Selected compounds were screened for cytochrome P450 inhibition (CYP1A2, CYP2A6, CYP2B6, CYP2C8, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, CYP2E1, CYP3A4), metabolic stability (rat and human liver microsomes), and cell-membrane permeability (Caco-2). They showed favorable in vitro ADME properties as well as favorable calculated druglike and experimental physicochemical properties. Furthermore, compounds 7 f and 17 a, for example, displayed high selectivity (affinity) for the sigma1 receptor against a wide range of other receptors (>60). With these valuable tool compounds in hand, we are further exploring the role of the sigma1 receptor in relevant animal models corresponding to such medicinal indications as drug abuse, pain, depression, anxiety, and psychosis.

The Sigma1 Protein as a Target for the Non-genomic Effects of Neuro(active)steroids: Molecular, Physiological, and Behavioral Aspects

Steroids synthesized in the periphery or de novo in the brain, so called 'neurosteroids', exert both genomic and nongenomic actions on neurotransmission systems. Through rapid modulatory effects on neurotransmitter receptors, they influence inhibitory and excitatory neurotransmission. In particular, progesterone derivatives like 3alpha-hydroxy-5alpha-pregnan-20-one (allopregnanolone) are positive allosteric modulators of the gamma-aminobutyric acid type A (GABA(A)) receptor and therefore act as inhibitory steroids, while pregnenolone sulphate (PREGS) and dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate (DHEAS) are negative modulators of the GABA(A) receptor and positive modulators of the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor, therefore acting as excitatory neurosteroids. Some steroids also interact with atypical proteins, the sigma (sigma) receptors. Recent studies particularly demonstrated that the sigma1 receptor contributes effectively to their pharmacological actions. The present article will review the data demonstrating that the sigma1 receptor binds neurosteroids in physiological conditions. The physiological relevance of this interaction will be analyzed and the impact on physiopathological outcomes in memory and drug addiction will be illustrated. We will particularly highlight, first, the importance of the sigma1-receptor activation by PREGS and DHEAS which may contribute to their modulatory effect on calcium homeostasis and, second, the importance of the steroid tonus in the pharmacological development of selective sigma1 drugs.

Chronic administration of dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS) primes for facilitated induction of long-term potentiation via sigma 1 (sigma1) receptor: optical imaging study in rat hippocampal slices

Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS), one of the most abundant neurosteroids synthesized de novo in the nervous system, has well characterized effects on memory and cognitive performances. However, little is known about the underlying synaptic mechanisms. In this study, we investigated the effects of chronic administration of DHEAS (20 mg/kg for 7 days) on the plasticity of Schaffer collateral-CA1 synapses by applying an optical recording technique on the hippocampal slices stained with voltage-sensitive dyes. We report here that chronically administered DHEAS significantly facilitated the induction of frequency-dependent LTP, termed DHEAS-facilitated LTP. While tetanus of at least 50 pulses (at 100 Hz) were required to induce LTP in control rats, only 20 pulses were needed in DHEAS-treated animals. In contrast DHEA, the non-sulfated form of DHEAS, had no facilitating effect on the induction of LTP. We found that chronically administered DHEAS did not alter the presynaptic glutamate release in response to both single pulse and tetanic stimulation, suggesting that certain alterations happened in postsynaptic neurons. Co-administration of the sigma 1 (sigma1) receptor antagonists, haloperidol or NE100, with DHEAS completely inhibited the DHEAS-facilitated LTP. However, acute administration of sigma1 receptor antagonists to the slices did not affect the induction of DHEAS-facilitated LTP, suggesting that sigma1 receptor is a key target of chronic actions of DHEAS but is not involved in the induction of DHEAS-facilitated LTP. Our findings provide evidence that chronically administered DHEAS plays a priming role in inducing a facilitated synaptic plasticity probably via a chronic activation of sigma1 receptor in rat hippocampal CA1 pyramidal cells.

Sigma-1 receptor as regulator of neuronal intracellular Ca2+: clinical and therapeutic relevance

Preserving brain function and cognitive faculties during aging and psychiatric diseases (e.g. psychotic, anxiety and affective disorders, dementia) is essential for the self-reliance and quality of life of patients. Cognitive loss involves not only memory, but also motor function. The decrease of catecholaminergic and excitatory neurotransmissions, as well as of protein phosphorylation, have currently been identified as prominent biological markers of the above-mentioned diseases. Such deleterious biological events are well known to occur downstream of a progressive decline of intracellular Ca2+ signalling. This latter constitutes a key target for the neuronal plasticity that has also been reported during aging and psychiatric disorders. Most of the medicines used in psychiatry are active on the sigma-1 receptor. This membrane bound receptor is widely distributed in memory-associated cortical and motor-related brainstem areas, prompting the hypothesis that it might contribute to the pathophysiology of these behavioural brain diseases. The sigma-1 receptor is characterized by a unique mode of action by regulating both Ca2+ entry at the plasma membrane level (i.e. via potassium channels, voltage-sensitive Ca2+ channels) and Ca2+ mobilization from endoplasmic stores [i.e. via Ins(1,4,5)P3 receptors]. This review presents recent data supporting the notion that drugs acting via the endoplasmic reticulum-coupled sigma-1 receptor might reverse these deleterious events by restoring both extra- and intra-cellular Ca(2+)-dependent neuronal responses.

Involvement of sigma (sigma) receptors in the acute actions of methamphetamine: receptor binding and behavioral studies

Methamphetamine interacts with sigma (sigma) receptors, suggesting that the drug produces some of its physiological and behavioral effects through these sites. Therefore, in the present report, receptor binding and pharmacological studies were performed to characterize the interaction between methamphetamine and sigma receptors. Of the two major sigma receptor subtypes, sigma1 and sigma2, competition binding studies showed that methamphetamine has a 22-fold preferential affinity for the sigma1 subtype. Saturation binding studies using the sigma1 selective radioligand [3H]+-pentazocine showed that in the presence of methamphetamine, there was a significant change in Kd, but not Bmax, suggesting competitive interactions. In behavioral studies, pretreatment of Swiss Webster mice with the sigma1 receptor antagonists, BD1063 or BD1047, significantly attenuated the locomotor stimulatory effects of methamphetamine. Mice that were administered an antisense oligodeoxynucleotide to down-regulate brain sigma1 receptors also exhibited a reduced locomotor stimulatory response to methamphetamine, as compared to control mice receiving mismatch oligonucleotides. Together, the data suggest that sigma1 receptors are involved in the acute actions of methamphetamine and that antagonism of this subtype is sufficient to prevent the locomotor stimulatory effects of methamphetamine.

The potential role of sigma-1 receptors in lipid transport and lipid raft reconstitution in the brain: implication for drug abuse

The brain is highly enriched in lipids. However, the molecular biological roles of lipids in the brain have been largely unexplored. Although, in 1990s, several studies have demonstrated the roles of lipids in a variety of neuronal functions and certain neurological diseases, the involvement of lipids in drug dependence, if any, is almost totally unknown. Sigma-1 receptors are brain-enriched proteins that interact with psychostimulants such as cocaine and methamphetamine. Sigma-1 receptors possess a putative sterol-binding pocket and are predominantly expressed on the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) where most lipids and their precursors are synthesized. Sigma-1 receptors are involved in drug-seeking behaviors and in psychostimulant-induced behavioral sensitization. Recent studies demonstrated that sigma-1 receptors target the lipid-storing subcompartments of the ER and are colocalized with cholesterol and neutral lipids. Sigma-1 receptors form detergent-insoluble lipid microdomains (lipid rafts) on the ER subcompartments and can translocate on the ER when stimulated. Upregulation of sigma-1 receptors affect the levels of plasma membrane lipid rafts by changing the lipid components therein. The membrane reconstitution thus induced by sigma-1 receptors in turn affects functions of proteins residing in plasma membrane lipid rafts including tropic factor receptors and tyrosine kinases. Specifically, we recently found that sigma-1 receptors modulate MAP kinase activation induced by tropic factors, neuritegenesis and oligodendrocyte differentiation-all related to lipid raft reconstitution. Sigma-1 receptors may thus play a role in psychostimulant-induced long-lasting morphological changes in the brain via the capacity of sigma-1 receptors in regulating ER lipid transport and the resultant plasma membrane lipid raft reconstitution.

Insulin receptor (IR) and glucose transporter 2 (GLUT2) proteins form a complex on the rat hepatocyte membrane

The hepatic glucose transporter, GLUT2, facilitates bidirectional glucose transport across the hepatocyte plasma membrane under insulin regulation. We studied the interactions of IR and GLUT2 proteins to determine whether they are physically coupled in a receptor-transporter complex. By comparing endosome and plasma membrane IR and GLUT2 ratios before and after feeding, it was determined that IR and GLUT2 are internalized in a fixed ratio. When solubilized hepatocytes were immunoprecipitated with antibodies against either IR or GLUT2, both proteins co-precipitated. The association of IR and GLUT2 was further assessed by confocal microscopy. Sections of fed liver were incubated with fluorescein-tagged anti-GLUT2 or Texas Red-tagged anti-IR. Colocalization was observed both at the plasma membrane and in the cytosol. Fluorescence-resonance energy transfer studies further confirmed this association. We conclude that IR and GLUT2 form a receptor-transporter complex in hepatocytes, which forms a mechanism of insulin-mediated hepatic glucose regulation.

Pregnenolone sulfate acts through a G-protein-coupled sigma1-like receptor to enhance short term facilitation in adult hippocampal neurons

Neurosteroids have been linked to cognitive performance, and their levels are altered in neuropsychiatric diseases. These neuromodulators are produced in the brain where they have important effects on synaptic transmission at postsynaptic gamma-amino-butyric acid receptors and N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors and at presynaptic sites. We previously found, in cultured neonatal hippocampal neurons, that the neurosteroid, pregnenolone sulfate, acts presynaptically through a sigma1-like receptor to modulate basal glutamate release. The present study was designed to test whether pregnenolone sulfate acts through a similar presynaptic receptor in adult hippocampal neurons. The sigma1-receptor agonist, 2-(4-morpholino)ethyl-1-phenylcyclohexane-1-carboxylate, enhanced paired-pulse facilitation (PPF) by a similar extent to that which we had previously reported for pregnenolone sulfate. The sigma1-receptor antagonists, 1-(4-Iodophenyl)-3-(2-adamantyl)guanidine and 1[2-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)ethyl]-4-methylpiperazine, blocked the pregnenolone sulfate enhancement of PPF as did pretreatment of slices in pertussis toxin. We conclude that pregnenolone sulfate acts through a Gi/o-coupled sigma1-like receptor to enhance short-term presynaptic facilitation onto adult hippocampal CA1 neurons.

Molecular diversity and function of voltage-gated (Kv) potassium channels in epithelial cells

Voltage-gated K+ channels belonging to Kv1-9 subfamilies are widely expressed in excitable cells where they play an essential role in membrane hyperpolarization during an action potential and in the propagation of action potentials along the plasma membrane. Early patch clamp studies on epithelial cells revealed the presence of K+ currents with biophysical and pharmacologic properties characteristic of Kv channels expressed in excitable cells. More recently, molecular approaches including PCR and the availability of more selective antibodies directed against Kv alpha and auxiliary subunits, have demonstrated that epithelial cells from various organ systems, express a remarkable diversity Kv channel subunits. Unlike neurons and myocytes however, epithelial cells do not typically generate action potentials or exhibit dynamic changes in membrane potential necessary for activation of Kv alpha subunits. Moreover, the fact that many Kv channels expressed in epithelial cells exhibit inactivation suggest that their activities are relatively transient, making it difficult to ascribe a functional role for these channels in transepithelial electrolyte or nutrient transport. Other proposed functions have included (i) cell migration and wound healing, (ii) cell proliferation and cancer, (iii) apoptosis and (iv) O2 sensing. Certain Kv channels, particularly Kv1 and Kv2 subfamily members, have been shown to be involved in the proliferation of prostate, colon, lung and breast carcinomas. In some instances, a significant increase in Kv channel expression has been correlated with tumorogenesis suggesting the possibility of using these proteins as markers for transformation and perhaps reducing the rate of tumor growth by selectively inhibiting their functional activity.

sigma Receptor activation blocks potassium channels and depresses neuroexcitability in rat intracardiac neurons

The sigma receptors have been implicated in the regulation of the cardiovascular system, and sigma-1 receptor transcripts have been found in parasympathetic intracardiac neurons. However, the cellular function of sigma-1 receptors in these cells remains to be determined. Effects of sigma receptor activation on voltage-activated K(+) channels and action potential firing were studied in isolated intracardiac neurons using whole-cell patch-clamp recording techniques. Activation of sigma receptors reversibly blocked delayed outwardly rectifying potassium channels, large conductance Ca(2+)-sensitive K(+) channels, and the M-current with maximal inhibition >80%. The inhibition of K(+) channels by sigma ligands was dose-dependent, and the rank order potency of (+)-pentazocine > ibogaine > 1,3-di-O-tolyguanidin (DTG) suggests that the effect is mediated by sigma-1 receptor activation. Preincubation of neurons with the irreversible sigma receptor antagonist metaphit blocked DTG-induced inhibition of K(+) channels, confirming that the effect is mediated by sigma receptor activation. Although bath application of sigma ligands depolarized intracardiac neurons, the number of action potentials fired by the cells in response to depolarizing current pulses was decreased in the presence of these drugs. Neither dialysis of the neurons nor application of intracellular 5'-O-(2-thiodiphosphate) trilithium salt inhibited the effect of sigma receptors on K(+) channels, which suggests that the signal transduction pathway does not involve a diffusible cytosolic second messenger or a G protein. Together, these data suggest that sigma-1 receptors are directly coupled to K(+) channels in intracardiac neurons. Furthermore, activation of sigma-1 receptors depresses the excitability of intracardiac neurons and is thus likely to block parasympathetic input to the heart.

The role of sigma receptors in depression

Behavioral models used to test potential antidepressants have shown that ligands that bind to sigma receptors possess "antidepressant-like" properties. The focus of this review is to discuss the literature concerning sigma receptors and their ligands, with respect to their antidepressants properties. In addition to the behavioral data, we discuss electrophysiological and biochemical models demonstrating sigma receptors' ability to modulate important factors in the pathophysiology of depression and/or the mechanisms of action of antidepressants such as the serotonergic neurotransmission in the dorsal raphe nucleus (DRN) and the glutamatergic transmission in the hippocampus. We also discuss the significance of these two systems in the mechanism of action of antidepressants. Sigma ligands have potential as antidepressant medications with a fast onset of action as they produce a rapid modulation of the serotonergic system in the DRN and the glutamatergic transmission in the hippocampus. As these effects of sigma ligands may produce antidepressant properties by completely novel mechanisms of action, they may provide an alternative to the antidepressants currently available and may prove to be beneficial for treatment-resistant depressed patients.