Molecular pharmacology of P2Y-receptors

Stimulation of P2 purinergic receptors induces the release of eosinophil cationic protein and interleukin-8 from human eosinophils

1. Extracellular nucleotides are the focus of increasing attention for their role as extracellular mediators since they are released into the extracellular environment in a regulated manner and/or as a consequence of cell damage. 2. Here, we show that human eosinophils stimulated with different nucleotides release eosinophil cationic protein (ECP) and the chemokine interleukin 8 (IL-8), and that release of these two proteins has a different nucleotide requirement. 3. Release of ECP was triggered in a dose-dependent manner by ATP, UTP and UDP, but not by 2'-&3'-o-(4-benzoyl-benzoyl)adenosine 5'-triphosphate (BzATP), ADP and alpha,beta-methylene adenosine 5' triphosphate (alpha,beta-meATP). Release of IL-8 was triggered by UDP, ATP, alpha,beta-meATP and BzATP, but not by UTP or ADP. Pretreatment with pertussis toxin abrogated nucleotide-stimulated ECP but not IL-8 release. 4. Release of IL-8 stimulated by BzATP was fully blocked by the P2X(7) blocker KN-62, while release triggered by ATP was only partially inhibited. IL-8 secretion due to UDP was fully insensitive to KN-62 inhibition. 5. Priming of eosinophils with GM-CSF increased IL-8 secretion irrespectively of the nucleotide used as a stimulant. 6. It is concluded that extracellular nucleotides trigger secretion of ECP by stimulating a receptor of the P2Y subfamily (possibly P2Y(2)), while, on the contrary, nucleotide-stimulated secretion of IL-8 can be due to activation of both P2Y (P2Y(6)) and P2X (P2X(1) and P2X(7)) receptors.

Extracellular nucleotides induce vasodilatation in human arteries via prostaglandins, nitric oxide and endothelium-derived hyperpolarising factor

1. The present study was aimed at examining P2 receptor-mediated vasodilatation in human vessels. The isometric tension was recorded in isolated segments of the human left internal mammary artery branches precontracted with 1 microM noradrenaline. 2. Endothelial denudation abolished the dilator responses. 3. The selective P2Y(1) agonist, 2-MeSADP, induced a potent vasodilatation (pEC(50)=6.9+/-0.1). The P2Y(1) antagonist of 10 microM, MRS 2216, shifted the 2-MeSADP concentration-response curve 1.1 log units to the right. The combined P2Y(1) and P2X agonist, 2-MeSATP, stimulated a dilatation with a potency similar to that of 2-MeSADP. Furthermore, MRS 2216 had a similar antagonistic effect on both 2-MeSATP and 2-MeSADP indicating that P2X receptors do not mediate vasodilatation. 4. Both the P2Y(2/4) agonist, UTPgammaS and the P2Y(6) agonist, UDPbetaS, stimulated potent dilatations (pEC(50)=7.8+/-0.4 for UTPgammaS and 8.4+/-0.2 for UDPbetaS). 5. The 2-MeSADP-induced nitric oxide (NO)-mediated dilatation was studied in the presence of 10 micro M indomethacin, 50 nM charybdotoxin and 1 microM apamin. The involvement of the endothelium-derived hyperpolarising factor (EDHF) was investigated in the presence of 0.1 mM L-NOARG and indomethacin. The involvement of prostaglandins was investigated in the presence of L-NOARG, charybdotoxin and apamin. Both NO, EDHF and prostaglandins mediated 2-MeSADP dilatation with similar efficacy (E(max)=25+/-5% for NO, 25+/-6% for EDHF and 27+/-5% for prostaglandins). 6. In conclusion, extracellular nucleotides induce endothelium-derived vasodilatation in human vessels by stimulating P2Y(1), P2Y(2/4) and P2Y(6) receptors, while P2X receptors are not involved. Endothelial P2Y receptors mediate dilatation by release of EDHF, NO and prostaglandins.

P2Y receptors modulate ion channel function through interactions involving the C-terminal domain

Nucleotide stimulation of G(q)-coupled P2Y receptors expressed in Xenopus laevis oocytes produces the activation of an endogenous voltage-gated ion channel, previously identified as the transient inward (T(in)) channel. Expression of human P2Y(1), human P2Y(2), rat P2Y(6), human P2Y(11), or skate P2Y receptors in oocytes resulted in modulation of the voltage dependence and inactivation gating of the channel. Expression of the human P2Y(4) receptor, rat M(1)-muscarinic receptor, and human B(1)-bradykinin receptor did not alter the properties of the T(in) channel. Replacement of the C-terminal domain of the human B(1)-bradykinin receptor with the C-terminal domains of either the human P2Y(1) or human P2Y(2) receptor resulted in voltage dependence and inactivation-gating properties, respectively, of the T(in) channel that were similar to those elicited by the respective native P2Y receptor. Systematic truncation of the C-terminal region of the human P2Y(1) receptor identified a short region responsible for modulation of the T(in) channel. This region contains a conserved sequence motif found in all P2Y receptors that modulates the voltage dependence of the T(in) channel. Synthetic 20-mer peptides from the C-terminal domains of human P2Y(1) and P2Y(2) receptors produced a shift in the voltage dependence and slowed inactivation gating, respectively, after injection into oocytes expressing human B(1)-bradykinin or truncated human P2Y(1) receptors. These results indicate that certain P2Y receptors are capable of modulating the voltage sensitivity and inactivation gating of an endogenous oocyte ion channel through interactions involving the C-terminal region of the receptor. Such modulation of ion channel function could also exist in native mammalian cells that express P2Y receptors.

Involvement of Rho-kinase in P2Y-receptor-mediated contraction of renal glomeruli

The involvement of Rho-kinase in P2Y-receptor induced contraction of isolated rat renal glomeruli was investigated. The contraction effects have been investigated based on changes in the intracapillary volume of isolated glomeruli. ATP was found to induce time- and concentration-dependent contraction of isolated glomeruli. Other tested nucleotides (ADP, UTP) and ATP analogues (beta,gamma-methylene-ATP, 2-methylothio-ATP) contracted glomeruli in similar magnitude whereas AMP had no effect. Furthermore, the contractive effect of ATP was prevented in the presence of an antagonist of P2Y-receptors, reactive blue 2. However, a selective antagonist of A1-receptors, 8-cyclopentyl-1,3-dipropylxanthine (DPCPX), had no effect. Contraction induced by ATP, ADP, and UTP, in contrast to 2-methylothio-ATP and beta,gamma-methylene-ATP, was prevented in the presence of Rho-kinase's inhibitor, (R)-(+)-trans-N-(4-pyridyl)-4-(1-aminoethyl)-cyclohexanecarboxamide dihydrochloride monohydrate (Y-27632). These findings suggest the involvement of Rho-kinase pathways in P2Y-induced contraction of isolated glomeruli.

ATP-induced calcium oscillations and change of P2Y subtypes with culture conditions in HeLa cells

ATP, UTP, ADP and UDP induced intracellular Ca(2+) responses and oscillations in HeLa cells that sometimes lasted over 1 h. The response is due to the activation of P2Ys, G-protein coupled ATP receptors, because the oscillations persisted for several minutes even in Ca(2+)-free solution, and suramin and PPADS, antagonists of ATP receptors, partially inhibited the response. The potency of these nucleotides varied with the culture or cell conditions, i.e. UTP was generally most potent but in some cases UDP was more potent; responses to UDP were variable while those to ATP were constant. In addition, Ca(2+) responses to ATP and UDP were additive. These findings suggested the existence of two or more subtypes of P2Ys in HeLa cells. RT-PCR experiments revealed the existence of P2Y(2), P2Y(4) and P2Y(6). Recovery from starvation (culture in FBS-free medium overnight and re-addition of FBS) increased the responses to UTP and UDP but not to ATP, suggesting that the number or activity of P2Y(6) and/or P2Y(4) receptors may increase with cell proliferation in HeLa cells.

Involvement of a purinergic pathway in the sympathetic regulation of motility in rat ileum

We investigated extrinsic neuronal regulation of intestinal motility. The mesenteric nerve stimulation (MNS; duration 0.5 ms, 10 Hz for 30 s) evoked relaxation in the longitudinal muscle direction of the isolated rat ileum. The MNS-induced relaxation was abolished by guanethidine (2 microM) or propranolol (10 microM), but was not affected by prazosin (10 microM), rauwolscine (10 microM), hexamethonium (100 microM) or capsaicin (1 microM). Exposure to a high concentration (100 microM) of ATP (ATP-desensitization) or ADP (ADP-desensitization) reduced the MNS-induced relaxation to 44.7% or 32.5% of the control (P<0.01), respectively. P2 purinoceptor antagonists [suramin (100 microM) and reactive blue-2 (RB-2, 50 microM)] or small conductance Ca(2+)-activated K(+) channel blocker, apamin (0.5 microM), significantly decreased the relaxation to 54.4% and 25.6% or 19.4% of the control (P<0.01), respectively, whereas selective P2Y(1) purinoceptor antagonist MRS2179 (10 microM) failed to affect the relaxation. Furthermore, exogenous ATP (1 microM) or ADP (1 microM) elicited relaxation in the rat ileum, which was almost abolished by reactive blue-2 (50 microM, 9.1% of control remained, P<0.05). In contrast, relaxation induced by noradrenalin (10 microM) was not antagonized by ATP-desensitization, apamin (0.5 microM) or reactive blue-2 (50 microM). From the present results, we conclude that noradrenergic sympathetic nerves might regulate intestinal motility mediated through a purinergic inhibitory neuronal pathway in the rat small intestine.

P2Y6 receptor mediates colonic NaCl secretion via differential activation of cAMP-mediated transport

Extracellular nucleotides are important regulators of epithelial ion transport. Here we investigated nucleotide-mediated effects on colonic NaCl secretion and the signal transduction mechanisms involved. Basolateral UDP induced a sustained activation of Cl(-) secretion, which was completely inhibited by 293B, a specific inhibitor of cAMP-stimulated basolateral KCNQ1/KCNE3 K(+) channels. We therefore speculated that a basolateral P2Y(6) receptor could increase cAMP. Indeed UDP elevated cAMP in isolated crypts. We identified an epithelial P2Y(6) receptor using crypt [Ca(2+)](i) measurements, RT-PCR, and immunohistochemistry. To investigate whether the rat P2Y(6)elevates cAMP, we coexpressed the P2Y(1) or P2Y(6) receptor together with the cAMP-regulated cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) Cl(-) channel in Xenopus oocytes. A two-electrode voltage clamp was used to monitor nucleotide-induced Cl(-) currents. In oocytes expressing the P2Y(1) receptor, ATP transiently activated the endogenous Ca(2+)-activated Cl(-) current, but not CFTR. In contrast, in oocytes expressing the P2Y(6)receptor, UDP transiently activated the Ca(2+)-activated Cl(-) current and subsequently CFTR. CFTR Cl(-) currents were identified by their halide conductance sequence. In summary we find a basolateral P2Y(6) receptor in colonic epithelial cells stimulating sustained NaCl secretion by way of a synergistic increase of [Ca(2+)](i) and cAMP. In support of these data P2Y(6) receptor stimulation differentially activates CFTR in Xenopus oocytes.

Teratogenic effects of suramin on the chick embryo

Suramin, a polysulfonated naphthylamine, has been used for the chemotherapy of trypanosomiasis and onchocerciasis since about the 1920s. Currently, it is also being tested as an anticancer agent. It is hoped that suramin might stop the progression of some kinds of cancer since it has been found to inhibit the proliferation and migration of cells and the formation of new blood vessels. These processes are not only essential for the development and progression of cancer, but also for normal embryonic development. Suramin might, therefore, be a potent teratogen. In the literature, however, we have found only scant information on this subject. In the present study, we demonstrate the teratogenic effects of suramin on chick embryos. Suramin was injected into the coelomic cavity of chick embryos on incubation day (ID) 3. Following reincubation until ID 8, suramin-treated embryos ( n=50) were examined for congenital malformations and compared with a control group ( n=30). The survival rate of suramin-treated embryos was markedly reduced compared with controls (50% vs 90%). Among the 25 survivors the following malformations were recorded: caudal dysgenesia (100%), median facial clefts with hypertelorism (92%), malformations of the aortic arch arteries (88%), hypo-/aplasia of the allantoic vesicle (84%), microphthalmia (52%), abnormalities of the great arterial trunks (44%), unilateral or bilateral cleft lips (40%), heart defects with juxtaposition of the right atrial appendage (36%), persistence of the lens vesicle (32%), median clefts of the lower beak (8%), omphalocele (4%), and cloacal exstrophy (4%). These results show that suramin is a potent teratogen. The possible implications of our findings for human beings and the possible teratogenic mechanisms of suramin are discussed. Use of suramin in experimental teratology might help to clarify the morphogenesis of median facial clefts and of some congenital heart defects.

Extracellular ATP regulates cell death of lymphocytes and monocytes induced by membrane-bound lipoproteins of Mycoplasma fermentans and Mycoplasma salivarium

The cytotoxicities of lipoproteins of Mycoplasma fermentans and Mycoplasma salivarium to a lymphocytic cell line, MOLT-4, and a monocytic cell line, HL-60, was upregulated by ATP added extracellularly in a dose-dependent manner. These lipoproteins induced ATP release and plasma membrane permeability increase in these cell lines. In addition, periodate-oxidized ATP, an antagonist for P2X purinergic receptors, suppressed the cytotoxicity of the lipoproteins, suggesting the possibility that P2X receptors for ATP play crucial roles in the cytotoxicity. Activation of caspase-3 induced by the lipoproteins, which was assessed by the cleavage of the synthetic substrate DEVD-pNA and the endogenous substrate poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase, was also upregulated and downregulated by extracellular ATP and periodate-oxidized ATP, respectively. On the basis of these results, this study suggests that mycoplasmal lipoproteins induce the permeability increase in lymphocytes and monocytes, by which ATP is released, and the ATP regulates the cytotoxicities of the lipoproteins to the cells, possibly by interaction with ATP receptors such as P2X purinergic receptors.

Mast cells: beyond IgE

Mast cells, historically known for their involvement in type I hypersensitivity, also serve critical protective and homeostatic functions. They directly recognize the products of bacterial infection through several surface receptor proteins, releasing proteases, cytokines, and eicosanoid mediators that recruit neutrophils, limit the spread of bacterial infection, and facilitate subsequent tissue repair. In vitro studies suggest that the spectrum of microbes capable of initiating mast cell activation is broad and extends to common respiratory viruses, mycoplasma, and even products of tissue injury, such as nucleotides. TH2-polarized inflammation elicits a reactive hyperplasia of mast cells at the involved mucosal surfaces in both mice and human subject. Several recombinant TH2 cytokines (IL-3, IL-4, IL-5, and IL-9) act synergistically with stem cell factor to facilitate proliferation of nontransformed human mast cells in vitro. IL-4 induces the expression of critical inflammation-associated genes by human mast cells, such as those encoding leukotriene C4 synthase, Fc(epsilon)RI, and several cytokines. Consequently, priming with IL-4 not only amplifies classical Fc(epsilon)RI-dependent mast cell activation but also dramatically alters the product profile of mast cells activated by innate signals and by chemical mediators of inflammation. Strikingly, IL-4 induces an activation response by mast cells to cysteinyl leukotrienes, which act through a receptor shared with uridine diphosphate to induce cytokine generation without exocytosis. It Is possible that alterations in mast cell phenotype by the TH2 milieu of allergy permits otherwise trivial infections or homeostatic chemical signals to initiate harmful inflammatory cascades and sustain tissue pathology. Drug development must take these nonclassical mast cell activation pathways into account without compromising the beneficial and protective functions of mast cells.

P2Y purinoceptors are responsible for oscillatory fluid flow-induced intracellular calcium mobilization in osteoblastic cells

We previously found that oscillatory fluid flow activated MC3T3-E1 osteoblastic cell Ca(2+)(i) mobilization via the inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate pathway in the presence of 2% fetal bovine serum (FBS). However, the molecular mechanism of fluid flow-induced Ca(2+)(i) mobilization is unknown. In this study, we first demonstrated that oscillatory fluid flow in the absence of FBS failed to increase [Ca(2+)](i) in MC3T3-E1 cells. Apyrase (10 units/ml), which rapidly hydrolyzes 5' nucleotide triphosphates to monosphophates, prevented the fluid flow induced increases in [Ca(2+)](i) in the presence of FBS. Adding ATP or UTP to flow medium without FBS restored the ability of fluid flow to increase [Ca(2+)](i), suggesting that ATP or UTP may mediate the effect of fluid flow on [Ca(2+)](i). Furthermore, adenosine, ADP, UDP, or adenosine 5'-O-(3-thiotriphosphate) did not induce Ca(2+)(i) mobilization under oscillatory fluid flow without FBS. Pyridoxal phosphate 6-azophenyl-2,4'-disulfonic acid, an antagonist of P2X purinoceptors, did not alter the effect of fluid flow on the Ca(2+)(i) response, whereas pertussis toxin, a G(i/o)-protein inhibitor, inhibited fluid flow-induced increases in [Ca(2+)](i) in the presence of 2% FBS. Thus, by the process of elimination, our data suggest that P2Y purinoceptors (P2Y2 or P2Y4) are involved in the Ca(2+)(i) response to fluid flow. Finally, a decreased percentage of MC3T3-E1 osteoblastic cells treated with P2Y2 antisense oligodeoxynucleotides responded to fluid flow with an increase in [Ca(2+)](i), and an increased percentage of ROS 17/2.8 cells, which do not normally express P2Y2 purinoceptors, transfected with P2Y2 purinoceptors responded to fluid flow in the presence of 2% FBS, confirming that P2Y2 purinoceptors are responsible for oscillatory fluid flow-induced Ca(2+)(i) mobilization. Our findings shed new light of the molecular mechanisms responsible for oscillatory fluid flow-induced Ca(2+)(i) mobilization in osteoblastic cells.

P2 receptor expression profiles in human vascular smooth muscle and endothelial cells

P2 receptors mediate the actions of the extracellular nucleotides ATP, ADP, UTP, and UDP, regulating several physiologic responses including cardiac function, vascular tone, smooth muscle cell (SMC) proliferation, platelet aggregation, and the release of endothelial factors. P2 receptor characterization has been hampered by the lack of selective antagonists. The aim of the current study was to investigate the mRNA and protein expression of P2X and P2Y receptors in human SMC and in endothelial cells (EC). Smooth muscle cells were obtained from human mammary artery and EC from human umbilical vein. Using real-time PCR, the authors established quantitative mRNA assays. Protein expression was studied using Western blotting with recently developed antibodies. The P2X1 receptor was highly specific for human SMC, while the P2X4 was the highest expressed receptor in EC. The P2Y2 receptor was present in both SMC and EC. UTP-mediated effects in these cells are likely to be mediated by P2Y2 and not P2Y4 receptors since the latter had considerably lower expression. The P2Y6 receptor was expressed in both SMC and EC. The P2Y1 and surprisingly the P2Y11 receptors were the most abundantly expressed P2Y receptors in the endothelium. Overall, Western blotting confirmed the mRNA findings in most aspects, and most interestingly, indicated oligomerization of the P2Y1 receptor that may be important for its function. In conclusion, P2X1, P2Y2, and P2Y6 are the most expressed P2 receptors in SMC and are thus probably mediating the contractile and mitogenic actions of extracellular nucleotides. The P2X4, P2Y11, P2Y1, and P2Y2 are the most expressed P2 receptors in EC, and are most likely mediating release of nitric oxide, endothelium-dependent hyperpolarizing factor (EDHF), and t-PA induced by extracellular nucleotides. These findings will help to direct future cardiovascular drug development against the large P2 receptor family.

ATP stimulates Ca2+ oscillations and contraction in airway smooth muscle cells of mouse lung slices

In airway smooth muscle cells (SMCs) from mouse lung slices, > or =10 microM ATP induced Ca2+ oscillations that were accompanied by airway contraction. After approximately 1 min, the Ca2+ oscillations subsided and the airway relaxed. By contrast, > or =0.5 microM adenosine 5'-O-(3-thiotriphosphate) (nonhydrolyzable) induced Ca2+ oscillations in the SMCs and an associated airway contraction that persisted for >2 min. Adenosine 5'-O-(3-thiotriphosphate)-induced Ca2+ oscillations occurred in the absence of external Ca2+ but were abolished by the phospholipase C inhibitor U-73122 and the inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor inhibitor xestospongin. Adenosine, AMP, and alpha,beta-methylene ATP had no effect on airway caliber, and the magnitude of the contractile response induced by a variety of nucleotides could be ranked in the following order: ATP = UTP > ADP. These results suggest that the SMC response to ATP is impaired by ATP hydrolysis and mediated via P2Y(2) or P2Y(4) receptors, activating phospholipase C to release Ca2+ via the inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor. We conclude that ATP can serve as a spasmogen of airway SMCs and that Ca2+ oscillations in SMCs are required to sustain airway contraction.

Immunoreactive localisation of P2Y1 receptors within the rat and human nodose ganglia and rat brainstem: comparison with [alpha 33P]deoxyadenosine 5'-triphosphate autoradiography

The present study employed standard peroxidase immunohistochemistry to map the distribution of P2Y(1) receptors in the rat brainstem and nodose ganglia and characterised the binding profile of [alpha(33)P]dATP. Binding of [alpha(33)P]dATP was fully displaceable by adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP), and was found on both human and rat nodose ganglia, and throughout the rat brainstem, including the nucleus tractus solitarius and ventrolateral medulla. [Alpha(33)P]dATP binding in the human nodose ganglia was significantly displaced by both 2-methylthio ATP and alpha,beta-methylene ATP, but not by uridine 5'-triphosphate, pyridoxalphosphate-6-azophenyl-2',4'-disulfonic acid, 8,8'-(carbonylbis(imino-4,1-phenylenecarbonylimino-4,1-phenylenecarbonylimino))bis(1,3,5-naphtalenetrisulfonic) acid (NF279) or N-ethylcarboxamidoadenosine. [Alpha(33)P]dATP binding in the rat nodose ganglia and brainstem was significantly displaced by only 2-methylthio ATP, suggesting that [alpha(33)P]dATP is binding to P2Y receptors in the rat. Binding of [alpha(33)P]dATP was also significantly displaced by alpha,beta-methylene adenosine 5'-diphosphate, suggesting a component of the binding is to endogenous ecto-5'-nucleotidase, however, almost all binding could be displaced by a combination of receptor agonists (2-methylthio ATP, uridine 5'-triphosphate and alpha,beta-methylene ATP), suggesting preferential binding to receptors. Immunoreactivity to P2Y(1) receptor (P2Y(1)-IR) exhibited similar distribution patterns to [alpha(33)P]dATP binding, with a clear topographic profile. Particularly dense P2Y(1)-IR labeling was evident in cells and fibres of the dorsal vagal complex. Immunolabeling was also present in the dorsal motor nucleus of the vagus and nucleus ambiguus, indicating the possibility of P2Y(1) receptors on vagal efferents. Unilateral vagal ligation was also performed to examine the transport of P2Y(1) receptor, using both immunohistochemistry and [alpha(33)P]dATP autoradiography. Accumulations of both P2Y(1)-IR and [alpha(33)P]dATP binding were apparent adjacent to both ligatures, suggesting bi-directional transport of P2Y(1) receptors along the rat vagus nerve. This current study represents the first description of P2Y(1) receptor distribution within the rodent brainstem and nodose ganglion and also characterises [alpha(33)P]dATP binding to P2Y receptors.

P2Y-receptors mediating an inhibition of the evoked entry of calcium through N-type calcium channels at neuronal processes

In the search for P2-receptors modulating the stimulation-evoked entry of calcium at processes of PC12 cells differentiated in the presence of nerve growth factor and neurotrophin-3, electrically evoked increases in free calcium were assessed by fura-2 microfluorimetry. Omission of calcium and addition of cadmium (100 microM) or the N-type calcium channel blocker omega-conotoxin GVIA (0.5 microM) abolished or markedly reduced the evoked responses. The P2Y-receptor agonists 2-methylthio adenosine 5'-diphosphate (2-methylthio-ADP), ADP, and adenosine 5'-O-(2-thiodiphosphate) (ADPbetaS) inhibited the electrically evoked entry of calcium without any changes in basal calcium concentrations. 2-Methylthio-ADP was the most potent agonist. Adenosine, P(1),P(4)-di(adenosine-5')-tetraphosphate (Ap4A), UDP, and UTP (30 microM each) had no effect. The effect of ADPbetaS (30 microM) was abolished by the P2-antagonists reactive blue 2 (3 microM), suramin (100 microM), 2-methylthio-AMP (10 microM), p-chloromercuriphenyl sulfonic acid (1 microM), and AR-C 69931MX [N(6)-(2-methylthioethyl)-2-(3,3,3-trifluoropropylthio)-beta,gamma-dichloromethylene adenosine 5'-triphosphate] (300 nM). In contrast, pyridoxalphosphate-6-azophenyl-2',4'-disulfonic acid (10 microM), the selective P2Y1-receptor antagonist MRS 2179 (N(6)-methyl-2'-deoxyadenosine 3',5'-bisphosphate; 10 microM), as well as the adenosine A(1)-receptor antagonist DPCPX (8-cyclopentyl-1,3-dipropylxanthine; 100 nM), caused no change. Pretreatment with pertussis toxin abolished the effect of ADPbetaS. Reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction revealed the presence of mRNA for P2Y12-receptors in nondifferentiated and differentiated PC12 cells. The results indicate that processes of differentiated PC12 cells possess P2Y12-receptors coupling to pertussis toxin-sensitive G-proteins and mediating an inhibition of the stimulation-evoked entry of calcium through omega-conotoxin GVIA-sensitive calcium channels. This suggests a role of P2Y12-receptors in neuromodulation in addition to their involvement in platelet aggregation.

ATP and UTP excite sensory neurons and induce CREB phosphorylation through the metabotropic receptor, P2Y2

Extracellular ATP rapidly excites nociceptive sensory neurons by opening ATP-gated ion channels (P2X receptors). Here, we describe two actions of both ATP and UTP on rat sensory neurons that are relatively slow and sustained: phosphorylation of the transcription factor CREB and delayed action potential firing that persists for tens of seconds after removal of the ligand. The pharmacology of these responses indicates that they are mediated by the metabotropic receptor P2Y2, and not by P2X receptors. CREB phosphorylation occurred in a subset of small peripherin-positive neurons likely to be unmyelinated nociceptors. In situ hybridization analysis revealed widespread expression of P2Y2 mRNA in sensory neurons. CREB phosphorylation is mediated by both action-potential-evoked calcium influx and calcium release from intracellular stores. These findings suggest that P2Y2 contributes to the transduction of ATP-mediated sensory signalling, and may be involved in the activity-dependent regulation of nociceptor phenotype.

Human Ntera-2/D1 neuronal progenitor cells endogenously express a functional P2Y1 receptor

We report here that human Ntera-2/D1 (NT-2) cells, an undifferentiated committed neuronal progenitor cell line, endogenously express a functional P2Y(1) receptor, while other P2Y subtypes, except perhaps P2Y(4), are not functionally expressed. Quantitative RT-PCR analysis showed that NT-2 cells abundantly express mRNA for P2Y(1) and P2Y(11) receptors, while P2Y(2) and P2Y(4) receptors were detected at considerably lower levels. Western blot analysis also demonstrated expression of P2Y(1) receptors and Galpha(q/11) subunits. Various nucleotides induced intracellular Ca(2+) mobilisation in NT-2 cells in a concentration-dependent manner with a rank order potency of 2-MeSADP > 2-MeSATP > ADP > ATP > UTP > ATPgammaS, a profile resembling that of human P2Y(1) receptors. Furthermore, P2Y(1) receptor-specific (A3P5P) and P2Y-selective (PPADS, suramin) antagonists inhibited adenine nucleotide-induced Ca(2+) responses in a concentration-dependent manner, consistent with expression of a P2Y(1) receptor. Moreover, of seven adenine nucleotides tested, only Bz-ATP and ATPgammaS elicited small increases in cAMP formation suggesting that few, if any, functional P2Y(11) receptors were expressed. P2Y(1) receptor-selective adenine nucleotides, including 2-MeSADP and ADP, also induced concentration-dependent phosphorylation and hence, activation of the extracellular-signal regulated protein kinases (ERK1/2). NT-2 cells, therefore, provide a useful neuronal-like cellular model for studying the precise signalling pathways and physiological responses mediated by a native P2Y(1) receptor.

The role of P2Y1 purinergic receptors and cytosolic Ca2+ in hypotonically activated osmolyte efflux from a rat hepatoma cell line

Exposure of HTC rat hepatoma cells to a 33% decrease in extracellular osmolality caused the cytosolic Ca(2+) concentration ([Ca(2+)](i)) to increase transiently by approximately 90 nm. This rise in [Ca(2+)](i) was inhibited strongly by apyrase, grade VII (which has a low ATP/ADPase ratio) but not by apyrase grade VI (which has a high ATP/ADPase ratio) or hexokinase, indicating that extracellular ADP and/or ATP play a role in the [Ca(2+)](i) increase. The hypotonically induced rise in [Ca(2+)](i) was prevented by the prior discharge of the intracellular Ca(2+) store of the cells by thapsigargin. Removal of extracellular Ca(2+) or inhibition of Ca(2+) influx by 1-10 microm Gd(3+) depleted the thapsigargin-sensitive Ca(2+) stores and thereby diminished the rise in [Ca(2+)](i). The hypotonically induced rise in [Ca(2+)](i) was prevented by adenosine 2'-phosphate-5'-phosphate (A2P5P) and pyridoxyl-5'-phosphate-6-azophenyl-2',4'-disulfonate, inhibitors of purinergic P2Y(1) receptors for which ADP is a major agonist. Both inhibitors also blocked the rise in [Ca(2+)](i) elicited by addition of ADP to cells in isotonic medium, whereas A2P5P had no effect on the rise in [Ca(2+)](i) elicited by the addition of the P2Y(2) and P2Y(4) receptor agonist, UTP. HTC cells were shown to express mRNA encoding for rat P2Y(1), P2Y(2), and P2Y(6) receptors. Inhibition of the hypotonically induced rise in [Ca(2+)](i) blocked hypotonically induced K(+) ((86)Rb(+)) efflux, modulated the hypotonically induced efflux of taurine, but had no significant effect on Cl(-) ((125)I-) efflux. The interaction of extracellular ATP and/or ADP with P2Y(1) purinergic receptors therefore plays a role in the response of HTC cells to osmotic swelling but does not account for activation of all the efflux pathways involved in the volume-regulatory response.

Adenosine triphosphate accelerates recovery from hypoxic/hypoglycemic perturbation of guinea pig hippocampal neurotransmission via a P(2) receptor

The present study was designed to assess the effects of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) on hippocampal neurotransmissions under the normal and hypoxic/hypoglycemic conditions. ATP reversely depressed population spikes (PSs), which were monitored in the dentate gyrus of guinea pig hippocampal slices, in a dose-dependent manner at concentrations ranged from 0.1 micro M to 1 mM. A similar depression was obtained with the P(2) receptor agonist, alpha,beta-methylene ATP (alpha,beta-MeATP), and the effect was inhibited by the P(2) receptor antagonists, suramin and PPADS. The inhibitory action of ATP or alpha,beta-MeATP was inhibited by the gamma-aminobutyric acid(A) (GABA(A)) receptor antagonist, bicuculline, but it was not affected by theophylline, a broad inhibitor of adenosine (P(1)) receptors, tetraethylammonium, a broad inhibitor of K(+) channels, or ecto-protein kinase inhibitors. ATP or alpha,beta-MeATP enhanced GABA release from guinea pig hippocampal slices, that was inhibited by deleting extracellular Ca(2+) or in the presence of tetrodotoxin, while ATP had no effect on GABA release from cultured rat hippocampal astrocytes or postsynaptic GABA-gated channel currents in cultured rat hippocampal neurons. Twenty-minutes deprivation of glucose and oxygen from extracellular solution abolished PSs, the amplitude recovering to about 30% of basal levels 50 min after returning to normal conditions. ATP or alpha,beta-MeATP accelerated the recovery after hypoxic/hypoglycemic insult (approximately 80% of basal levels). Adenosine diphosphate and adenosine monophosphate accelerated the recovery, but to a much lesser extent, and adenosine had no effect. The results of the present study thus suggest that ATP inhibits neuronal activity by enhancing neuronal GABA release via a P(2) receptor, perhaps a P2X receptor, thereby protecting against hypoxic/hypoglycemic perturbation of hippocampal neurotransmission.

Analgesic effects of intrathecal administration of P2Y nucleotide receptor agonists UTP and UDP in normal and neuropathic pain model rats

Recent electrophysiological, behavioral, and biochemical studies revealed that ATP plays a role in facilitating spinal pain transmission via ionotropic P2X nucleotide receptors, although the involvement of metabotropic P2Y nucleotide receptors remains unclear. In the present study, we examined the effects of i.t. administration of P2Y receptor agonists UTP, UDP, and related compounds on nociception in normal rats and tactile allodynia in a neuropathic pain model. In the paw pressure test using normal rats, i.t. administration of UTP (30 and 100 nmol/rat) and UDP (30 and 100 nmol/rat), but not UMP (100 nmol/rat) or uridine (100 nmol/rat), significantly elevated the mechanical nociceptive thresholds, whereas ATP (30 and 100 nmol/rat) and alpha,beta-methylene-ATP (10 and 30 nmol/rat) lowered them. Similarly, in the tail-flick test, UTP (10, 30, and 100 nmol/rat) and UDP (100 nmol/rat) significantly prolonged the thermal nociceptive latency. In the von Frey filament test on normal rats, UTP (100 nmol/rat) and UDP (100 nmol/rat) produced no allodynia to the tactile stimulus, whereas ATP (100 nmol/rat) induced a significant and long-lasting tactile allodynia. In the neuropathic pain model, in which the sciatic nerves of rats were partially ligated, UTP (30 and 100 nmol/rat) and UDP (30 and 100 nmol/rat) produced significant antiallodynic effects. Furthermore, UTP (100 nmol/rat) and UDP (100 nmol/rat) caused no motor deficit in the inclined plane test. Taken together, these results suggest that the activation of UTP-sensitive P2Y(2) and/or P2Y(4) receptors and the UDP-sensitive P2Y(6) receptor, in contrast to P2X receptors, produces inhibitory effects on spinal pain transmission.

Effects of extracellular purines on ion transport across the integument of Hirudo medicinalis

Little is known about the long-term regulation of epithelial ion transport in invertebrates and the specific mediators involved. For some years, we have been investigating the short-term regulation of transepithelial ion transport across the dorsal integument of the leech Hirudo medicinalis, and we have established a model of Na+ uptake. In the present study, we investigated the effect of long-term acclimation on transintegumental ion transport by adapting leeches to high-salinity conditions. We dissected segments of dorsal integument and measured ion currents in Ussing chamber experiments. Electrophysiological variables, such as transepithelial potential(VT) and short-circuit-current (Isc),were profoundly affected by adaptation to high-salinity conditions. The total transepithelial Na+ current (INa) decreased from 7.66±0.82 to 4.6±0.54 μA cm-2 in preparations adapted to high salinity. The involvement of epithelial Na+channels was determined as current inhibition (Iami) by apical application of amiloride; Na+ channels were equally active in control epithelia and epithelia from leeches adapted to high salinity. Removal of Ca2+ from the apical solutions, which is believed to reduce intracellular Ca2+ concentrations, equalized transepithelial variables between high-salt-adapted integuments and control integuments.

Extracellular purines regulate transepithelial Cl- secretion and Na+ absorption. In a variety of tissues we tested ATP and adenosine for their effects on epithelial transport. Examination of integuments from pondwater- and high-salinity-adapted leeches revealed different sensitivities for these purines. Apical and basolateral application of ATP both stimulated transepithelial Na+ uptake and Iami. Adenosine upregulated non-Na+ currents and acted from the basolateral side only. Apical Ca2+-free conditions attenuated these effects of purines on transepithelial currents. Extracellular UTP had no effect on ion transport.

Functional compartmentation of endothelial P2Y receptor signaling

The presence of multiple receptors for disparate nucleotides on endothelial cells makes it unclear how the endothelium differentiates among these signals. We propose that endothelial P2Y receptors are organized into cholesterol-rich signaling domains, such as caveolae and respond to nucleotide agonists by mobilizing intracellular calcium. Treatment of endothelial cells with 5 mmol/L beta-methyl-cyclodextrin prevents calcium release in response to the nucleotide receptor agonists 2-methylthio-ATP, ATP, ADP, and UTP, but not the kinin receptor agonist bradykinin, suggesting that depletion of membrane cholesterol disrupts signaling at P2Y receptors and that bradykinin receptors are not prelocalized to cholesterol microdomains in these cells. Direct measurement of cholesterol content after beta-methyl-cyclodextrin treatment of aortic rings reveals a concentration-dependent depletion of cholesterol that parallels functional antagonism of P2Y-mediated relaxation. Nucleotide- and bradykinin-mediated relaxation is disrupted by 5 to 15 mmol/L beta -methyl-cyclodextrin treatment or 1 to 10 microg/mL filipin III in a concentration-dependent fashion. Norepinephrine contracted aorta treated with A23187 relaxes in an endothelium-dependent fashion despite depletion of 84% of membrane-extractable cholesterol. These data indicate that in the basal state, P2Y receptors but not the kinin receptor may be compartmented to cholesterol-dependent signaling domains in guinea pig endothelium and that cholesterol-rich microdomains in these cells can respond to intracellular calcium in an agonist-specific manner. We suggest that the functional organization of cholesterol-rich signaling microdomains allows agonist-specific responses to increases in intracellular calcium and that this property may be a general phenomenon that permits cells to respond disparately to agonists that may signal through common calcium release pathways.

Vasoactivity of diadenosine polyphosphates in human small mesenteric resistance arteries

Diadenosine polyphosphates (ApnA) (n = 3-6) induced vasoconstrictions in isolated human mesenteric resistance arteries (hMRAs) mounted in a microvessel myograph (rank order of potency: Ap5A > Ap6A > Ap4A > Ap3A). The contractile effects of ApnA in hMRA were similar to their effects in rat MRA investigated previously. ATP, ADP, AMP, and adenosine had less contractile potency than ApnA, suggesting that the observed effects were not induced by the degradation products of ApnA. Ap4A- and Ap5A-induced vasoconstriction was inhibited by pyridoxalphosphate-6-azophenyl-2',4'-disulfonic acid (PPADS) (P2X purinoceptor antagonist) but not by ADP3'5' (P2Y purinoceptor antagonist). Thus, this purinergic vasoconstriction of hMRA seems to be P2X but not P2Y purinoceptor-mediated. In precontracted hMRA all ApnA caused vasorelaxations but (in contrast to rat MRA) the potencies of the ApnA did not differ significantly from each other. The ApnA degradation products had less vasorelaxing potency than ApnA, demonstrating that the vasorelaxations can be ascribed to the ApnA themselves. Ap5A-induced vasorelaxation of hMRA could neither be inhibited with ADP3'5' nor with PPADS, which reveals a decisive difference to the rat MRA where the inhibitory profile demonstrated the importance of the P2Y purinoceptor for Ap5A-induced vasorelaxation. However, Ap4A-induced vasorelaxation in hMRA could be inhibited by ADP3'5'. These findings show that Ap4A-induced vasorelaxation in hMRA is due to P2Y purinoceptor activation, that Ap5A evokes vasorelaxation in hMRA via another mechanism than Ap4A, and that data derived from the animal model cannot be simply transferred to human conditions.

ADP and other metabolites released from Acanthamoeba castellanii lead to human monocytic cell death through apoptosis and stimulate the secretion of proinflammatory cytokines

Monocytes/macrophages are thought to be involved in Acanthamoeba infections. The aim of this work was to study whether soluble metabolites (ADP and other compounds) released by Acanthamoeba castellanii trophozoites could induce morphological and biochemical changes in human monocytic cells in vitro. We demonstrate here that ADP constitutively released in the medium by A. castellanii, interacting with specific P2y(2) purinoceptors expressed on the monocytic cell membrane, caused a biphasic rise in [Ca(2+)](i), morphological changes characteristics of cells undergoing apoptosis, caspase-3 activation, and secretion of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha). The same results were found in monocytes exposed to purified ADP. Cell damage and TNF-alpha release induced by amoebic ADP were blocked by the P2y(2) inhibitor suramin. Other metabolites contained in amoebic cell-free supernatants, with molecular masses of, respectively, >30 kDa and between 30 and 10 kDa, also caused morphological modifications and activation of intracellular caspase-3, characteristics of programmed cell death. Nevertheless, mechanisms by which these molecules trigger cell damage appeared to differ from that of ADP. In addition, other amoebic thermolable metabolites with molecular masses of <10 kDa caused the secretion of interleukin-1beta. These findings suggest that pathogenic free-living A. castellanii by release of ADP and other metabolites lead to human monocytic cell death through apoptosis and stimulate the secretion of proinflammatory cytokines.

ATP induces leukemia inhibitory factor mRNA in cultured rat astrocytes

Leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) is a cytokine involved in the survival and differentiation of the neural cells in the central and peripheral nervous systems. In the present study, we examined the effects of various neurotransmitter receptor agonists on LIF mRNA expression in cultured rat astrocytes, microglia and neurons to elucidate the cell types producing LIF and to clarify the neurotransmitter(s) regulating the mRNA expression. The results demonstrated that the expression of LIF mRNA was intensely induced by ATP in the cultured astrocytes. Experiments using ATP, UTP and related compounds showed the involvement of P2Y2 and P2Y4 purinoceptors in the expression induced by ATP.

Role of luminal ATP in regulating electrogenic Na(+) absorption in guinea pig distal colon

Extracellular ATP regulates a variety of functions in epithelial tissues by activating the membrane P2-receptor. The purpose of this study was to investigate the autocrine/paracrine regulation by luminal ATP of electrogenic amiloride-sensitive Na(+) absorption in the distal colon from guinea pigs treated with aldosterone by measuring the amiloride-sensitive short-circuit current (I(sc)) and (22)Na(+) flux in vitro with the Ussing chamber technique. ATP added to the luminal side inhibited the amiloride-sensitive I(sc) and (22)Na(+) absorption to a similar degree. The concentration dependence of the inhibitory effect of ATP on amiloride-sensitive I(sc) had an IC(50) value of 20-30 microM, with the maximum inhibition being approximately 50%. The effects of different nucleotides and of a nucleoside were also studied, the order of potency being ATP = UTP > ADP > adenosine. The effects of ATP were slightly, but significantly, reduced in the presence of suramin in the luminal solution. The inhibitory effect of luminal ATP was more potent in the absence of both Mg2+ and Ca2+ from the luminal solution. Pretreatment of the tissue with ionomycin or thapsigargin in the absence of serosal Ca2+ did not affect the percent inhibition of amiloride-sensitive I(sc) induced by ATP. Mechanical perturbation with a hypotonic luminal solution caused a reduction in amiloride-sensitive I(sc), this effect being prevented by the presence of hexokinase, an ATP-scavenging enzyme. These results suggest that ATP released into the luminal side by hypotonic stimulation could exert an inhibitory effect on the electrogenic Na(+) absorption. This effect was probably mediated by a P2Y(2) receptor on the apical membrane of colonic epithelial cells, and a change in the intracellular Ca2+ concentration may not be necessary for this process.

Nucleotides induce chemotaxis and actin polymerization in immature but not mature human dendritic cells via activation of pertussis toxin-sensitive P2y receptors

Dendritic cells (DCs) are considered the principal initiators of immune response because of their ability to migrate into peripheral tissues and lymphoid organs, process antigens, and activate naive T cells. There is evidence that extracellular nucleotides regulate certain functions of DCs via G-protein-coupled P2Y receptors (P2YR) and ion-channel-gated P2X receptors (P2XR). Here we investigated the chemotactic activity and analyzed the migration-associated intracellular signaling events such as actin reorganization and Ca(++) transients induced by common P2R agonists such as adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP) and 2-methylthioadenosine triphosphate, the P2YR agonists UTP and adenosine 5'-diphosphate (ADP), or the P2XR agonists alphabeta-methylenadenosine-5'-triphosphate and 2',3'-(4-benzoyl)benzoyl-ATP. The common P2R agonists and the selective P2YR agonists turned out to be potent chemotactic stimuli for immature DCs, but not for mature DCs. In contrast, P2XR agonists had only marginal chemotactic activity in both DC types. Chemotaxis was paralleled by a rise in the intracellular Ca(++) concentration and by actin polymerization. Studies with pertussis toxin implicated that intracellular signaling events such as actin polymerization, mobilization of intracellular Ca(++), and migration induced by nucleotides was mediated via G(i/o) protein-coupled P2YR. Moreover, functional studies revealed selective down-regulation of this G(i/o) protein-coupled chemotactic P2YR responsiveness during maturation, although immature and mature DCs expressed similar amounts of mRNA for the P2R subtypes (P2Y(2)R, P2Y(4)R, P2Y(5)R, P2Y(7)R, P2Y(11)R and P2X(1)R, P2X(4)R, P2X(7)R), and no major differences in respect to the mRNA expression of these receptors could be observed by semiquantitative reverse transcription and polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). In summary, our data describe a differential chemotactic response of immature and mature DCs to nucleotides, and lend further support to the hypothesis that P2R are a novel class of immunomodulatory plasma membrane receptors suitable for pharmacological intervention.

Synergic effects of mycoplasmal lipopeptides and extracellular ATP on activation of macrophages

Mycoplasmal lipopeptides S-(2,3-bispalmitoyloxypropyl)-CGDPKHSPKSF and S-(2,3-bispalmitoyloxypropyl)-CGNNDESNISFKEK activated a monocytic cell line, THP-1 cells, to produce tumor necrosis factor alpha. The activity of the lipopeptides was augmented by ATP in a dose-dependent manner. In addition, the level of expression of mRNAs for tumor necrosis factor alpha and interleukin-1 beta, -6, and -8 was also upregulated by the lipopeptides and/or extracellular ATP, but that of interleukin-10 was not. The P2X purinergic receptor antagonists pyridoxal phosphate 6-azophenyl 2',4'-disulfonic acid and periodate-oxidized ATP suppressed the activity of ATP to augment the activation of THP-1 cells by the lipopeptides, suggesting that P2X receptors play important roles in the activity of ATP. The nuclear factor kappa B inhibitor dexamethasone also suppressed the activity, suggesting that the activity of ATP is dependent upon the nuclear factor kappa B. Thus, these results suggest that the interaction of extracellular ATP with the P2X receptors is attributed to the activity of ATP to augment the activation of THP-1 cells by mycoplasmal lipopeptides.

Pharmacological characterization of a UTP-sensitive P2Y nucleotide receptor in organ cultured coronary arteries

Our lab has previously demonstrated that organ cultured coronary smooth muscle cells express a nucleotide receptor that is dramatically more responsive to UTP than non-organ cultured cells. Thus, the purpose of this study was to pharmacologically characterize this UTP-sensitive nucleotide receptor. Porcine coronary arteries were organ cultured (serum-free media, 37 degrees C) for 4 days, and fura-2 imaging of single cells was used to measure myoplasmic Ca2+ (Cam) in response to several nucleotide agonists. A concentration-response relationship (0.01-100 microM) was generated to the nucleotide receptor agonists, UTP, UDP, ATP, ADP, and 2-MeSATP. The potency order was UTP >> UDP = ATP = ADP = 2-MeSATP, thus, this nucleotide receptor is predominantly UTP-sensitive. The Cam response to 10 microM UTP was attenuated approximately 50% by the nucleotide receptor antagonists (10 and 100 microM), suramin, reactive blue 2, and pyridoxalphosphate-6-azophenyl-2',4'-disulphonoic acid (PPADS). Depletion of the sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ store with thapsigargin completely abolished the UTP-induced Cam response. In addition, the peak UTP-induced Cam increase was almost two-fold higher in a 2-mM Ca2+ solution than a 0-mM Ca2+ solution. This suggests that the UTP-induced Cam response is comprised of both Ca2+ influx and the mobilization of intracellular Ca2+ stores. Pertussis toxin reduced the UTP-induced Cam response 50%, thus, the UTP-induced increase in Cam is mediated, in part, via Gi/o. These data suggest this UTP-sensitive receptor belongs to the P2Y nucleotide receptor family; however, it does not possess pharmacological characteristics associated with any known P2Y receptor subtype.

Suramin-induced reversal of chronic cerebral vasospasm in experimental subarachnoid hemorrhage

OBJECT

The naphthylsulfonate derivative suramin is an inhibitor of growth factor receptors (receptor tyrosine kinases) and G protein-coupled P2Y receptors. Both types of these receptors are suspected of being involved in cerebral vasospasm after subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). In the current study, the authors examined the therapeutic effects of suramin and a selective P2X-receptor antagonist, pyridoxalphosphate-6-azophenyl-2',4'-disulfonic acid (PPADS), in the reversal of vasospasm in an established canine double-hemorrhage model.

METHODS

Twenty-four dogs underwent double blood injection into the cisterna magna, with injections given on Days 0 and 2. The dogs were divided randomly into three groups (six animals in each group) to be treated from Days 2 through 6 with the vehicle dimethyl sulfoxide, suramin, or PPADS. An additional group of six dogs received double blood injection without any treatment and served as an SAH control group. The animals were killed on Day 7. Angiography was performed on Day 0 before blood injection and again on Day 7 before the animals were killed. After the death of the animals, the basilar arteries (BAs) were collected for morphological studies and determination of tyrosine kinase expression, and the bloody cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) produced by the hemorrhages was collected for measurement of oxyhemoglobin and adenosine triphosphate (ATP). In the SAH control group, the mean diameter of the BAs on Day 7 was 46.23 +/- 6.32% of the value on Day 0 (which served as a reference of 100%). In the DMSO-treated group, the mean residual diameter of the BA was 47.77 +/- 0.8% on Day 7 compared with the value on Day 0. Suramin, but not PPADS, increased the residual diameter to 74.02 +/- 4.24% on Day 7. On Day 7 the level of ATP in the CSF was decreased and the level of oxyhemoglobin was increased, compared with values measured on Day 0. Suramin, but not PPADS, reduced tyrosine phosphorylation in the spastic BAs.

CONCLUSIONS

By reducing tyrosine kinase activity, suramin may be useful in the treatment of cerebral vasospasm.

ATP release in human kidney cortex and its mitogenic effects in visceral glomerular epithelial cells

BACKGROUND

In chronic renal failure the sympathetic nervous system is activated. Sympathetic cotransmitters released within the kidney may contribute to the progression of renal disease through receptor-mediated proliferative mechanisms.

METHODS

In human renal cortex electrical stimulation induced adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP; luciferin-luciferase-assay) and norepinephrine (HPLC) release was measured. ATP release also was induced by alpha1- and alpha2-adrenergic agonists. [3H]-thymidine uptake was tested in human visceral glomerular epithelial cells (vGEC) and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK42/44) activation in vGEC and kidney cortex. The involved P2-receptors were characterized pharmacologically and by RT-PCR.

RESULTS

Sympathetic nerve stimulation and alpha-adrenergic agonists induced release of ATP from human kidney cortex. Seventy-five percent of the ATP released originated from non-neuronal sources, mainly through activation of alpha2-adrenergic receptors. ATP (1 to 100 micromol/L) and related nucleotides (1 to 100 micromol/L) increased [3H]-thymidine uptake. The adenine nucleotides ATP, ATPgammaS, ADP and ADPbetaS were about equally potent. UTP, UDP and alpha,beta-methylene ATP had no effect. ATP, ADPbetaS but not alpha,beta-methylene ATP activated MAPK42/44. ATP induced MAPK42/44 activation, and [3H]-thymidine uptake was abolished in the presence of the MAPK inhibitor PD 98059 (100 micromol/L). mRNA for P2X4,5,6,7 and P2Y1,2,4,6,11 were detected in human vGEC by RT-PCR.

CONCLUSIONS

In human renal cortex, adrenergic stimulation releases ATP from neuronal and non-neuronal sources. ATP has mitogenic effects in vGEC and therefore the potential to contribute to progression in chronic renal disease. The pattern of purinoceptor agonist effects on DNA synthesis together with the mRNA expression suggests a major contribution of a P2Y1-like receptor.

Modulation of K(+) currents in Xenopus spinal neurons by p2y receptors: a role for ATP and ADP in motor pattern generation

We have investigated the pharmacological properties and targets of p2y purinoceptors in Xenopus embryo spinal neurons. ATP reversibly inhibited the voltage-gated K(+) currents by 10 +/- 3 %. UTP and the analogues alpha,beta-methylene-ATP and 2-methylthio-ATP also inhibited K(+) currents. This agonist profile is similar to that reported for a p2y receptor cloned from Xenopus embryos. Voltage-gated K(+) currents could be inhibited by ADP (9 +/- 0.8 %) suggesting that a further p2y1-like receptor is also present in the embryo spinal cord. Unexpectedly we found that alpha,beta-methylene-ADP, often used to block the ecto-5'-nucleotidase, also inhibited voltage-gated K(+) currents (7 +/- 2.3 %). This inhibition was occluded by ADP, suggesting that alpha,beta-methylene-ADP is an agonist at p2y1 receptors. We have directly studied the properties of the ecto-5'-nucleotidase in Xenopus embryo spinal cord. Although ADP inhibited this enzyme, alpha,beta-methylene-ADP had no action. Caution therefore needs to be used when interpreting the actions of alpha,beta-methylene-ADP as it has previously unreported agonist activity at P2 receptors. Xenopus spinal neurons possess fast and slow voltage-gated K(+) currents. By using catechol to selectively block the fast current, we completely occluded the actions of ATP and ADP. Furthermore, the purines appeared to block only the fast relaxation component of the tail currents. We therefore conclude that the p2y receptors target only the fast component of the delayed rectifier. As ATP breakdown to ADP is rapid and ADP may accumulate at higher levels than ATP, the contribution of ADP acting through p2y1-like receptors may be an important additional mechanism for the control of spinal motor pattern generation.

Extracellular mRNA induces dendritic cell activation by stimulating tumor necrosis factor-alpha secretion and signaling through a nucleotide receptor

We previously demonstrated that dendritic cell (DC) pulsing with antigen-encoded mRNA resulted in the loading of both major histocompatibility complex class I and II antigen presentation pathways and the delivery of an activation signal. Coculture of mRNA-pulsed DC with T cells led to the induction of a potent primary immune response. DC, in addition to recognizing foreign antigens through pattern recognition receptors, also must respond to altered self, transformed, or intracellularly infected cells. This occurs through cell surface receptors that recognize products of inflammation and cell death. In this report, we characterize two signaling pathways utilized by extracellular mRNA to activate DC. In addition, a novel ligand, poly(A), is identified that mediates signaling through a receptor that can be inhibited by pertussis toxin and suramin and can be desensitized by ATP and ADP, suggesting a P2Y type nucleotide receptor. The role of this signaling activity in vaccine design and the potential effect of mRNA released by damaged cells in the induction of immune responsiveness is discussed.

P2Y11 receptors activate adenylyl cyclase and contribute to nucleotide-promoted cAMP formation in MDCK-D(1) cells. A mechanism for nucleotide-mediated autocrine-paracrine regulation

Extracellular nucleotides activate P2Y receptors, thereby increasing cAMP formation in Madin-Darby canine kidney (MDCK-D(1)) cells, which express P2Y(1), P2Y(2), and P2Y(11) receptors (Post, S. R., Rump, L. C., Zambon, A., Hughes, R. J., Buda, M. D., Jacobson, J. P., Kao, C. C., and Insel, P. A. (1998) J. Biol. Chem. 273, 23093-23097). The cyclooxygenase inhibitor indomethacin (indo) eliminates UTP-promoted cAMP formation (i.e. via P2Y(2) receptors) but only partially blocks ATP-promoted cAMP formation. The latter response is completely blocked by the nonselective P2Y receptor antagonist suramin. We have sought to identify the mechanism for this P2Y receptor-mediated, indo-resistant cAMP formation. The agonist rank order potencies for cAMP formation were: ADP beta S > or = MT-ADP > 2-MT-ATP > ADP, ATP, ATP gamma S > UTP, AMP, adenosine. We found a similar rank order in MDCK-D(1) cells overexpressing cloned green fluorescent protein-tagged P2Y(11) receptors, but the potency of the agonists was enhanced, consistent with a P2Y(11) receptor-mediated effect. cAMP generation by the P2Y(1) and P2Y(11) receptor agonist ADP beta S was not inhibited by several P2Y(1)-selective antagonists (PPADS, A2P5P, and MRS 2179). Forskolin synergistically enhanced cAMP generation in response to ADP beta S or PGE(2), implying that, like PGE(2), ADP beta S activates adenylyl cyclase via G(s), a conclusion supported by results showing ADP beta S and MT-ADP promoted activation of adenylyl cyclase activity in MDCK-D(1) membranes. We conclude that nucleotide-promoted, indo-resistant cAMP formation in MDCK-D(1) cells occurs via G(s)-linked P2Y(11) receptors. These data describing adenylyl cyclase activity via endogenous P2Y(11) receptors define a mechanism by which released nucleotides can increase cAMP in MDCK-D(1) and other P2Y(11)-containing cells.

Cysteinyl leukotrienes and uridine diphosphate induce cytokine generation by human mast cells through an interleukin 4-regulated pathway that is inhibited by leukotriene receptor antagonists

We previously reported that interleukin (IL)-4 upregulates the expression of leukotriene C(4) synthase (LTC(4)S) by human cord blood--derived mast cells (hMCs), augments their high-affinity Fc receptor for IgE (Fc(epsilon)RI)-dependent generation of eicosanoids and cytokines, and induces a calcium flux in response to cysteinyl leukotrienes (cys-LTs) and uridine diphosphate (UDP) that is blocked by cys-LT receptor antagonists. We speculated that this IL-4-dependent, receptor-mediated response to the cys-LTs and UDP might induce cytokine generation by hMCs without concomitant exocytosis. Unlike hMCs maintained in cytoprotective stem cell factor (SCF) alone, hMCs primed for 5 d with IL-4 responded to UDP (1microM), LTC(4) (100 nM), and LTD(4) (100 nM) by producing IL-5, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha, and especially large quantities of macrophage inflammatory protein (MIP)-1beta de novo at 6 h, preceded by the induced expression of the corresponding mRNAs. Cys-LT- and UDP-mediated cytokine production by the primed hMCs occurred without histamine release or PGD(2) generation and was inhibited by the CysLT1 receptor antagonist MK571. Additionally, pretreatment of hMCs with MK571 or with the cys-LT biosynthetic inhibitor MK886 decreased IL-5 and TNF-alpha production in response to IgE receptor cross-linkage, implying a positive feedback by endogenously produced cys-LTs. Cys-LTs and UDP thus orchestrate a novel, IL-4-regulated, non-IgE-dependent hMC activation for cytokine gene induction that could be initiated by microbes, cellular injury, or neurogenic or inflammatory signals; and this pathobiologic event would not be recognized in tissue studies where hMC activation is classically defined by exocytosis.

Interaction between P2Y and NMDA receptors in layer V pyramidal neurons of the rat prefrontal cortex

In the first part of this study, monosynaptic excitatory postsynaptic potentials (EPSPs) in layer V of the rat prefrontal cortex were evoked by electrical stimulation of layer I. Recordings by intracellular sharp microelectrodes showed that EPSPs were concentration-dependently facilitated by the P2 receptor antagonistic ATP analogue 2-methylthio ATP (2-MeSATP), while ATP itself depressed the synaptic potentials. The inhibitory effect of ATP turned into facilitation in the presence of the adenosine A(1) receptor antagonist DPCPX. The 2-MeSATP-induced potentiation of EPSP amplitudes were prevented by the P2 receptor antagonists PPADS and Suramin. The EPSP was almost abolished by coapplication of the NMDA receptor antagonist AP-5 and the AMPA/kainate receptor antagonist CNQX. After blockade of the NMDA receptor-mediated part of the EPSP by AP-5, the stimulatory effect of 2-MeSATP disappeared. When NMDA or AMPA were pressure-applied onto pyramidal cells, only the NMDA-induced depolarization was potentiated by 2-MeSATP. In the second part of the study, NMDA-induced currents were measured by whole-cell patch-clamp pipettes. ATP, 2-MeSATP, UDP and UTP potentiated the response to NMDA, while ADP-beta-S was inactive. PPADS antagonized the effect of ATP. Synaptic isolation of pyramidal neurons by a Ca(2+)-free medium or tetrodotoxin did not alter the effect of ATP which, however, was markedly depressed when GTP in the micropipette was replaced by GDP-beta-S. These observations suggest that in layer V pyramidal neurons of the prefrontal cortex postsynaptically localized P2Y receptors interact with NMDA receptor-channels.

Nucleotide-evoked relaxation of rat vas deferens: possible mechanisms

ATP causes relaxation of the K(+)-contracted rat vas deferens. Possible sites of action were investigated. ATP and adenosine relaxed the vas deferens precontracted with 80 mM K(+); EC(50) values and maximal relaxations averaged, respectively, 760 microM and 56% for ATP and 74 microM and 30% for adenosine. The adenosine P1 receptor antagonist 8-(para-sulfophenyl)theophylline (8-SPT) reduced relaxations caused by adenosine and low concentrations of ATP, as did the Rp-diastereomer of adenosine 3',5'-cyclic phosphorothioate (Rp-cAMPS), an inhibitor of protein kinase A. The phosphodiesterase inhibitor 4-(3-butoxy-4-methoxybenzyl)-2-imidazolidinone (Ro 20-1724) augmented responses to adenosine and low concentrations of ATP. alpha,beta-Methylene ADP, an inhibitor of 5'-nucleotidase, reduced relaxations caused by ATP to a similar extent as did 8-SPT. In the presence of an almost saturating concentration of adenosine, ATP caused further relaxation. Conversely, in the presence of ATP, adenosine had little effect. Like ATP, UTP and other nucleoside triphosphates relaxed the vas deferens. The P2 receptor antagonists reactive blue 2, acid blue 25 and 4,4'-diisothiocyanotostilbene-2,2'-disulphonate (DIDS) attenuated the relaxation caused by ATP; suramin, pyridoxalphosphate-6-azophenyl-2',4'-disulphonate (PPADS), Evans blue, trypan blue, reactive red 2 and brilliant blue G had no effect. Three non-selective inhibitors of protein kinases, 1-(5-isoquinolinesulfonyl)-2-methylpiperazine (H-7), staurosporine and (8R*,9S*,11S*)-(-)-9-hydroxy-9-carboxy-8-methyl-2,3,9,10-tetrahydro-8,11-epoxy-1H,8H,11H-2,7b,11a-triazadibenzo[a,g]cycloocta[cde]trinden-1-one (K-252b), markedly reduced the relaxation caused by ATP. The results indicate that adenosine, derived from enzymatic dephosphorylation, contributes to the relaxant effect of ATP, presumably by activation of a smooth muscle adenosine receptor linked to the accumulation of cAMP and activation of protein kinase A. Yet, the main part of the response to ATP is mediated by a site distinct from the adenosine receptor. The pharmacological properties of this site differ from known P2 receptor subtypes. Possibly, the nucleotide-evoked relaxation is due to a phosphoryl transfer catalyzed by an ecto-protein kinase.

P2 receptors: new potential players in atherosclerosis

Atherosclerosis is a focal inflammatory disease of the arterial wall. It starts with the formation of fatty streaks on the arterial wall that evolve to form a raised plaque made of smooth muscle cells (SMCs), and infiltrating leukocytes surrounding a necrotic core. The pathogenesis of the atherosclerotic lesion is incompletely understood, but it is clear that a dysfunction of the endothelium, recruitment and activation of inflammatory cells and SMC proliferation have a pivotal role. Over recent years receptors for extracellular nucleotides, the P2 receptors, have been recognized as fundamental modulators of leukocytes, platelets, SMCs and endothelial cells. P2 receptors mediate chemotaxis, cytokine secretion, NO generation, platelet aggregation and cell proliferation in response to accumulation of nucleotides into the extracellular milieu. Clinical trials have shown the benefit of antagonists of the ADP platelet receptor(s) in the prevention of vascular accidents in patients with atherosclerosis. Therefore, we anticipate that a deeper understanding of the involvement of P2 receptors in atheroma formation will open new avenues for drug design and therapeutic intervention.

A retrospective of recombinant P2Y receptor subtypes and their pharmacology

Since the first cloning of P2Y receptor sequences in 1993 it has become apparent that this family of G-protein-coupled receptors is omnipresent. At least 25 individual sequences entered in the GenBank sequence database encode P2Y receptors from a variety of species ranging from the little skate Raja erinacea to man. In man, six receptor subtypes have been cloned and found to be functionally active (P2Y(1), P2Y(2), P2Y(4), P2Y(6), P2Y(11), and P2Y(12)). In this article a review of the P2Y receptor subtypes is presented considering both their sequences and the pharmacological profiles of the encoded receptors expressed in heterologous expression systems.

Nucleotide-mediated relaxation in guinea-pig aorta: selective inhibition by MRS2179

The vasodilatory effects of nucleotides in the guinea-pig thoracic aorta were examined to determine the relationship between molecular expression and function of P2Y receptors. In aortic rings precontracted with norepinephrine, vasodilatory responses to purine nucleotides exhibited a rank-order of potency of 2-methylthio-ATP>ADP>ATP. Responses to UTP, but not UDP suggested a functional role for P2Y4 but not P2Y6 receptors. Aortic endothelial cells express at least four P2Y receptors; P2Y1, P2Y2, P2Y4 and P2Y6. In primary culture, these cells exhibit desensitizing transient calcium responses characteristic of P2Y1, P2Y2 and P2Y4, but not P2Y6 receptors. UDP had no effect on endothelial cell calcium. The pyrimidinergic receptor agonist UTP is capable of eliciting robust vasodilation in aortic rings and causing calcium responses in cultured guineapig aortic endothelial cells. These responses are equivalent to the maximum responses observed to ATP and ADP. Measurement of intracellular calcium release in response to ATP and 2-methylthio-ATP were similar, however only the 2-methylthio-ATP response was sensitive to the P2Y1 antagonist N(6)-methyl-2'-deoxyadenosine-3',5'-bisphosphate (MRS2179). In aortic rings, vasodilatory responses to 2-methylthio-ATP, ATP and ADP were all blocked by pre-incubation of tissues with MRS2179. MRS2179 pretreatment had no effect of the ability of UTP to cause relaxation of norepinephrine responses in aortic rings or the ability of UTP to cause calcium release in aortic endothelial cells. We demonstrate robust effects of purine and pyrimidine nucleotides in guineapig aorta and provide functional and biochemical evidence that MRS2179 is a selective P2Y1 antagonist.

P2X(7) receptors in the enteric nervous system of guinea-pig small intestine

The P2X(7) purinergic receptor subtype has been cloned and emphasized as a prototypic P2Z receptor involved in neurotransmission in the central nervous system and ATP-mediated lysis of macrophages in the immune system. Less is known about the neurobiology of P2X(7) receptors in the enteric nervous system (ENS). We studied the distribution of the receptor with indirect immunofluorescence and used selective agonists and antagonists to analyze pharmacologic aspects of its electrophysiologic behavior as determined with intracellular "sharp" microelectrodes and patch-clamp recording methods in neurons identified morphologically by biocytin injection in the ENS. Application of ATP or 2'- (or-3'-) O-(4-benzoylbenzoyl) adenosine 5'-triphosphate (BzBzATP) activated an inward current in myenteric neurons. Brilliant blue G, a selective P2X(7) antagonist, suppressed the responses to both agonists. Potency of the antagonist was greatest (smaller IC(50)) for the current evoked by BzBzATP. The P2X(7) antagonists 1-[N,O-bis (1,5-isoquinolinesulfonyl)-N-methyl-l-tyrosyl]-4-piperazine (KN-62) and oxidized ATP also suppressed the BzBzATP-activated current. Micropressure application of BzBzATP evoked rapidly activating depolarizing responses in intracellular studies with "sharp" microelectrodes. Oxidized-ATP suppressed these responses in both myenteric and submucosal neurons. Rapidly activating depolarizing responses evoked by application of nicotinic, serotonergic 5-HT(3), or gamma-aminobutyric acid A (GABA(A)) receptor agonists were unaffected by brilliant blue G. Immunoreactivity for the P2X(7) receptor was widely distributed surrounding ganglion cell bodies and associated with nerve fibers in both myenteric and submucous plexuses. P2X(7) immunoreactivity was colocalized with synapsin and synaptophysin and surrounded ganglion cells that contained either calbindin, calretinin, neuropeptide Y, substance P, or nitric oxide synthase. The mucosa, submucosal blood vessels, and the circular muscle coat also showed P2X(7) receptor immunoreactivity.

P2 receptor-types involved in astrogliosis in vivo

1. In the nucleus accumbens (NAc) of rats, the involvement of P2X and P2Y receptors in the generation of astrogliosis in vivo, was investigated by local application of their respective ligands. The agonists used had selectivities for P2X1,3 (alpha,beta-methylene adenosine 5'-triphosphate; alpha,beta-meATP), P2Y1,12 (adenosine 5'-O-(2-thiodiphosphate; ADP-beta-S) and P2Y2,4,6 receptors (uridine 5'-O-(3-thiotriphosphate; UTP-gamma-S). Pyridoxalphosphate-6-azophenyl-2,4-disulphonic acid (PPADS) was used as a non-selective antagonist. The astroglial reaction was studied by means of immunocytochemical double-labelling with antibodies to glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) and 5-bromo-2'-deoxyuridine (BrdU). 2. The agonist-induced changes in comparison to the artificial cerebrospinal fluid (aCSF)-treated control side reveal a strong mitogenic potency of ADP-beta-S and alpha,beta-meATP, whereas UTP-gamma-S was ineffective. The P2 receptor antagonist PPADS decreased the injury-induced proliferation when given alone and in addition inhibited all agonist effects. 3. The observed morphogenic changes included hypertrophy of astrocytes, elongation of astrocytic processes and up-regulation of GFAP. A significant increase of both GFAP-immunoreactivity (IR) and GFA-protein content (by using Western blotting) was found after microinfusion of alpha,beta-meATP or ADP-beta-S. In contrast, UTP-gamma-S failed to increase the GFAP-IR. The morphogenic effects were also inhibited by pre-treatment with PPADS. 4. A double immunofluorescence approach with confocal laser scanning microscopy showed the localisation of P2X3 and P2Y1 receptors on the GFAP-labelled astrocytes. 5. In conclusion, the data suggest that P2Y (P2Y1 or P2Y12) receptor subtypes are involved in the generation of astrogliosis in the NAc of rats, with a possible minor contribution of P2X receptor subtypes.

Cysteinyl leukotriene receptor 1 is also a pyrimidinergic receptor and is expressed by human mast cells

The cysteinyl leukotrienes (cys-LTs) LTC(4), LTD(4), and LTE(4) are a class of peptide-conjugated lipids formed from arachidonic acid and released during activation of mast cells (MCs). We now report that human cord-blood-derived MCs (hMCs) express the CysLT1 receptor, which responds not only to inflammation-derived cys-LTs, but also to a pyrimidinergic ligand, UDP. hMCs express both CysLT1 protein and transcript, and respond to LTC(4), LTD(4), and UDP with concentration-dependent calcium fluxes, each of which is blocked by a competitive CysLT1 receptor antagonist, MK571. Stably transfected Chinese hamster ovary cells expressing the CysLT1 receptor also exhibit MK571-sensitive calcium flux to all three agonists. Both hMCs and CysLT1 transfectants stimulated with UDP are desensitized to LTC(4), but only partially to LTD(4). Priming of hMCs with IL-4 for 5 days enhances their sensitivity to each agonist, but preferentially lowers their threshold for activation by LTC(4) and UDP (approximately 3 log(10)-fold shifts in dose-response for each agonist) over LTD(4) (1.3 log(10)-fold shift), without altering CysLT1 receptor mRNA or surface protein expression, implying the likely induction of a second receptor with CysLT1-like dual ligand specificity. hMCs thus express the CysLT1 receptor, and possibly a closely related IL-4-inducible receptor, which mediate dual activation responses to cys-LTs and UDP, providing an apparent intersection linking the inflammatory and neurogenic elements of bronchial asthma.

Stimulation of mouse cultured sympathetic neurons by uracil but not adenine nucleotides

Cultured neurons from the paravertebral sympathetic chain of rats possess excitatory P2X as well as excitatory uracil nucleotide-sensitive P2Y receptors. Preliminary observations had indicated that the analogous neurons of mice lacked P2X receptors. This difference was now investigated. Thoracolumbar sympathetic neurons from one- to three-day-old mice were cultured for seven days. When the neurons were preincubated with [3H]noradrenaline and then superfused, ATP failed to cause any change in tritium outflow. UTP (3-300 microM) and UDP (30-100 microM), in contrast, caused marked increases, and so did nicotine (3-100 microM). The effect of UTP was not changed by suramin but abolished by tetrodotoxin and in the absence of calcium. The effect of nicotine was antagonized by hexamethonium and also abolished by tetrodotoxin and in the absence of calcium. Pre-exposure to UDP prevented the effect of UTP. In neurons studied by means of whole-cell patch-clamp techniques under current clamp, ATP lacked any effect. UTP (100 microM), UDP (100 microM) and nicotine (10 microM) caused depolarization accompanied by action potentials. Pre-exposure to UDP prevented the effect of UTP. In neurons studied under voltage clamp, ATP, UTP and UDP failed to cause any detectable current. Nicotine (10 microM), in contrast, elicited inward currents. Neither UTP nor UDP reduced the M-type potassium outward current. These results demonstrate a pronounced difference between cultured sympathetic neurons from the mouse and the rat paravertebral chain. Neurons from both species possess the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor. Neurons from both species also possess uracil nucleotide-sensitive P2Y receptors which, when activated, mediate depolarization, action potential firing and noradrenaline release; these effects are not due to inhibition of M-type potassium channels. Only the rat but not the mouse neurons, however, possess P2X receptors which, when activated, mediate cation entry, depolarization, action potential generation and transmitter release. The absence of functional P2X receptors makes the mouse neurons suitable for further study of the uracil nucleotide-sensitive P2Y receptors.