3H-nicotine- and 125I-alpha-bungarotoxin-labeled nicotinic receptors in the interpeduncular nucleus of rats. II. Effects of habenular deafferentation

The putative role of the habenula in animal migration

BACKGROUND

When an addicted animal seeks a specific substance, it is based on the perception of internal and external cues that strongly motivate to pursue the acquisition of that compound. In essence, a similar process acts out when an animal leaves its present area to begin its circannual migration. This review article examines the existence of scientific evidence for possible relatedness of migration and addiction by influencing Dorsal Diencephalic Conduction System (DDCS) including the habenula.

METHODS

For this review especially the databases of Pubmed and Embase were frequently and non-systematically searched.

RESULTS

The mechanisms of bird migration have been thoroughly investigated. Especially the mechanism of the circannual biorhythm and its associated endocrine regulation has been well elucidated. A typical behavior called "Zugunruhe" marks the moment of leaving in migratory birds. The role of magnetoreception in navigation has also been clarified in recent years. However, how bird migration is regulated at the neuronal level in the forebrain is not well understood. Among mammals, marine mammals are most similar to birds. They use terrestrial magnetic field when navigating and often bridge long distances between breeding and foraging areas. Population migration is further often seen among the large hoofed mammals in different parts of the world. Importantly, learning processes and social interactions with conspecifics play a major role in these ungulates. Considering the evolutionary development of the forebrain in vertebrates, it can be postulated that the DDCS plays a central role in regulating the readiness and intensity of essential (emotional) behaviors. There is manifold evidence that this DDCS plays an important role in relapse to abuse after prolonged periods of abstinence from addictive behavior. It is also possible that the DDCS plays a role in navigation.

CONCLUSIONS

The role of the DDCS in the neurobiological regulation of bird migration has hardly been investigated. The involvement of this system in relapse to addiction in mammals might suggest to change this. It is recommended that particularly during "Zugunruhe" the role of neuronal regulation via the DDCS will be further investigated.

Neurobiological Mechanisms of Nicotine Reward and Aversion

Neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) regulate the rewarding actions of nicotine contained in tobacco that establish and maintain the smoking habit. nAChRs also regulate the aversive properties of nicotine, sensitivity to which decreases tobacco use and protects against tobacco use disorder. These opposing behavioral actions of nicotine reflect nAChR expression in brain reward and aversion circuits. nAChRs containing α4 and β2 subunits are responsible for the high-affinity nicotine binding sites in the brain and are densely expressed by reward-relevant neurons, most notably dopaminergic, GABAergic, and glutamatergic neurons in the ventral tegmental area. High-affinity nAChRs can incorporate additional subunits, including β3, α6, or α5 subunits, with the resulting nAChR subtypes playing discrete and dissociable roles in the stimulatory actions of nicotine on brain dopamine transmission. nAChRs in brain dopamine circuits also participate in aversive reactions to nicotine and the negative affective state experienced during nicotine withdrawal. nAChRs containing α3 and β4 subunits are responsible for the low-affinity nicotine binding sites in the brain and are enriched in brain sites involved in aversion, including the medial habenula, interpeduncular nucleus, and nucleus of the solitary tract, brain sites in which α5 nAChR subunits are also expressed. These aversion-related brain sites regulate nicotine avoidance behaviors, and genetic variation that modifies the function of nAChRs in these sites increases vulnerability to tobacco dependence and smoking-related diseases. Here, we review the molecular, cellular, and circuit-level mechanisms through which nicotine elicits reward and aversion and the adaptations in these processes that drive the development of nicotine dependence. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: Tobacco use disorder in the form of habitual cigarette smoking or regular use of other tobacco-related products is a major cause of death and disease worldwide. This article reviews the actions of nicotine in the brain that contribute to tobacco use disorder.

Therapeutic Targeting of α7 Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptors

The α7-type nicotinic acetylcholine receptor is one of the most unique and interesting of all the members of the cys-loop superfamily of ligand-gated ion channels. Since it was first identified initially as a binding site for α-bungarotoxin in mammalian brain and later as a functional homomeric receptor with relatively high calcium permeability, it has been pursued as a potential therapeutic target for numerous indications, from Alzheimer disease to asthma. In this review, we discuss the history and state of the art for targeting α7 receptors, beginning with subtype-selective agonists and the basic pharmacophore for the selective activation of α7 receptors. A key feature of α7 receptors is their rapid desensitization by standard "orthosteric" agonist, and we discuss insights into the conformational landscape of α7 receptors that has been gained by the development of ligands binding to allosteric sites. Some of these sites are targeted by positive allosteric modulators that have a wide range of effects on the activation profile of the receptors. Other sites are targeted by direct allosteric agonist or antagonists. We include a perspective on the potential importance of α7 receptors for metabotropic as well as ionotropic signaling. We outline the challenges that exist for future development of drugs to target this important receptor and approaches that may be considered to address those challenges. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: The α7-type nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) is acknowledged as a potentially important therapeutic target with functional properties associated with both ionotropic and metabotropic signaling. The functional properties of α7 nAChR can be regulated in diverse ways with the variety of orthosteric and allosteric ligands described in this review.

Multidimensional Intersection of Nicotine, Gene Expression, and Behavior

The cholinergic system plays a crucial role in nervous system function with important effects on developmental processes, cognition, attention, motivation, reward, learning, and memory. Nicotine, the reinforcing component of tobacco and e-cigarettes, directly acts on the cholinergic system by targeting nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) in the brain. Activation of nAChRs leads to a multitude of immediate and long-lasting effects in specific cellular populations, thereby affecting the addictive properties of the drug. In addition to the direct actions of nicotine in binding to and opening nAChRs, the subsequent activation of circuits and downstream signaling cascades leads to a wide range of changes in gene expression, which can subsequently alter further behavioral expression. In this review, we provide an overview of the actions of nicotine that lead to changes in gene expression and further highlight evidence supporting how these changes can often be bidirectional, thereby inducing subsequent changes in behaviors associated with further drug intake.

New Insights on Neuronal Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptors as Targets for Pain and Inflammation: A Focus on α7 nAChRs

BACKGROUND

Nicotine and nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) have been explored for the past three decades as targets for pain control. The aim of this review is to introduce readers particularly to α7 nAChRs in a perspective of pain and its modulation.

METHODS

Developments for α7 nAChR modulators and recent animal studies related to pain are reviewed.

RESULTS

Accumulating evidences suggest that selective ligands for α7 nAChRs hold promise in the treatment of chronic pain conditions as they lack many of side effects associated with other nicotinic receptor types.

CONCLUSION

This review provides the reader recent insights on α7 nAChRs from structure and function to the latest findings on the pharmacology and therapeutic targeting of these receptors for the treatment of pain and inflammation.

Emerging Pharmacological Properties of Cholinergic Synaptic Transmission: Comparison between Mammalian and Insect Synaptic and Extrasynaptic Nicotinic Receptors

Acetylcholine (ACh) is probably the oldest signalling neurotransmitter which appeared in evolution before the nervous system. It is present in bacteria, algae, protozoa and plants. In insects and mammals it is involved in cell-to-cell communications in various neuronal and non-neuronal tissues. The discovery of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) as the main receptors involved in rapid cholinergic neurotransmission has helped to understand the role of ACh at synaptic level. Recently, several lines of evidence have indicated that extrasynaptically expressed nAChRs display distinct pharmacological properties from the ones expressed at synaptic level. The role of both nAChRs at insect extrasynaptic and/or synaptic levels has been underestimated due to the lack of pharmacological tools to identify different nicotinic receptor subtypes. In the present review, we summarize recent electrophysiological and pharmacological studies on the extrasynaptic and synaptic differences between insect and mammalian nAChR subtypes and we discuss on the pharmacological impact of several drugs such as neonicotinoid insecticides targeting these receptors. In fact, nAChRs are involved in a wide range of pathophysiological processes such as epilepsy, pain and a wide range of neurodegenerative and psychiatric disorders. In addition, they are the target sites of neonicotinoid insecticides which are known to act as nicotinic agonists causing severe poisoning in insects and mammals.

Tethered agonist analogs as site-specific probes for domains of the human α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor that differentially regulate activation and desensitization

Homomeric α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptors represent an important and complex pharmaceutical target. They can be activated by structurally diverse agonists and are highly likely to enter and remain in desensitized states at rates determined by the structures of the agonists. To identify structural elements regulating this function, we introduced reactive cysteines into the α7 ligand-binding domain allowing us to bind sulfhydryl-reactive (SH) agonist analogs or control reagents onto specific positions in the ligand binding domain. We identified four α7 mutants (S36C, L38C, W55C, and L119C) in which the tethering of the SH reagents blocked further acetylcholine-evoked activation of the receptor. However, after selective reaction with SH agonist analogs, the type II allosteric modulator N-(5-chloro-2,4-dimethoxyphenyl)-N'-(5-methyl-3-isoxazolyl-3-isoxazolyl)-urea (PNU-120596) could reactivate L119C and W55C mutants and receptors with a reduced or modified C-loop. Modified S36C and L38C mutants were insensitive to reactivation by PNU-120596, whether they were reacted with agonist analogs or alternative SH reagents. Molecular modeling showed that in the W55C and L119C mutants, the ammonium pharmacophore of the agonist analog methanethiosulfonate-ethyltrimethylammonium would be in a similar but nonidentical position underneath the C-loop. The orientation assumed by the ligand tethered to 119C was approximately 3-fold more sensitive to PNU-120596 than the alternative pose at 55C. Our results support the hypothesis that a single ligand can bind within the receptor in different ways and, depending on the specific binding pose, may variously promote activation or desensitization, or, alternatively, function as a competitive antagonist. This insight may provide a new approach for drug development.

Rodent habenulo-interpeduncular pathway expresses a large variety of uncommon nAChR subtypes, but only the alpha3beta4* and alpha3beta3beta4* subtypes mediate acetylcholine release

Recent studies suggest that the neuronal nicotinic receptors (nAChRs) present in the habenulo-interpeduncular (Hb-IPn) system can modulate the reinforcing effect of addictive drugs and the anxiolytic effect of nicotine. Hb and IPn neurons express mRNAs for most nAChR subunits, thus making it difficult to establish the subunit composition of functional receptors. We used immunoprecipitation and immunopurification studies performed in rat and wild-type (+/+) and beta2 knock-out (-/-) mice to establish that the Hb and IPn contain significant beta2* and beta4* populations of nAChR receptors (each of which is heterogeneous). The beta4* nAChR are more highly expressed in the IPn. We also identified novel native subtypes (alpha2beta2*, alpha4beta3beta2*, alpha3beta3beta4*, alpha6beta3beta4*). Our studies on IPn synaptosomes obtained from +/+ and alpha2, alpha4, alpha5, alpha6, alpha7, beta2, beta3, and beta4(-/-) mice show that only the alpha3beta4 and alpha3beta3beta4 subtypes facilitate acetylcholine (ACh) release. Ligand binding, immunoprecipitation, and Western blotting studies in beta3(-/-) mice showed that, in the IPn of these mice, there is a concomitant reduction of ACh release and alpha3beta4* receptors, whereas the receptor number remains the same in the Hb. We suggest that, in habenular cholinergic neurons, the beta3 subunit may be important for transporting the alpha3beta4* subtype from the medial habenula to the IPn. Overall, these studies highlight the presence of a wealth of uncommon nAChR subtypes in the Hb-IPn system and identify alpha3beta4 and alpha3beta3beta4, transported from the Hb and highly enriched in the IPn, as the subtypes modulating ACh release in the IPn.

Tetrahydroaminoacridine (THA) in Alzheimer's disease: an assessment of attentional and mnemonic function using CANTAB

A placebo-controlled cross-over trial (n = 89) investigated the use of a chronic dose of the cholinesterase inhibitor THA, as a treatment for dementia of the Alzheimer type (DAT). Effects on both subjective clinical rating scales and objective computerised tests were assessed. In regard to the former, analysis of the three main clinical outcome measures showed statistically significant effects of the drug on the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) and the Abbreviated Mental Test Score (AMTS), but not on the Activities of Daily Living scale (ADL). Using the objective computerised CANTAB tests, sensitive to specific aspects of memory and attention, evidence was found for improvements in attentional function rather than memory, in patients with mild to moderate DAT. Although these improvements were significant, they were small and restricted to certain tests of attentional function. Nevertheless, they add to the growing body of evidence that the cholinergic system is involved in the control of attentional processes; and are substantiated by the findings of a second study examining the effects of an acute dose of nicotine on attentional and mnemonic performance in patients with DAT. This study found significant improvements in cognitive performance in patients receiving nicotine, in objective tests of attention but not of short-term memory. These data will clearly provide important comparative data for future investigations of putative cognitive enhancing drugs in DAT sufferers.

Nicotinic modulation of synaptic transmission and plasticity in cortico-limbic circuits

Nicotine is the principle addictive agent delivered via cigarette smoking. The addictive activity of nicotine is due to potent interactions with nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) on neurons in the reinforcement and reward circuits of the brain. Beyond its addictive actions, nicotine is thought to have positive effects on performance in working memory and short-term attention-related tasks. The brain areas involved in such behaviors are part of an extensive cortico-limbic network that includes relays between prefrontal cortex (PFC) and cingulate cortex (CC), hippocampus, amygdala, ventral tegmental area (VTA) and the nucleus accumbens (nAcc). Nicotine activates a broad array of nAChRs subtypes that can be targeted to pre- as well as peri- and post-synaptic locations in these areas. Thereby, nicotine not only excites different types of neurons, but it also perturbs baseline neuronal communication, alters synaptic properties and modulates synaptic plasticity. In this review we focus on recent findings on nicotinic modulation of cortical circuits and their targets fields, which show that acute and transient activation of nicotinic receptors in cortico-limbic circuits triggers a series of events that affects cognitive performance in a long lasting manner. Understanding how nicotine induces long-term changes in synapses and alters plasticity in the cortico-limbic circuits is essential to determining how these areas interact in decoding fundamental aspects of cognition and reward.

Correlation between dopaminergic neurons, acetylcholinesterase and nicotinic acetylcholine receptors containing the α3- or α5-subunit in the rat substantia nigra

The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between the cells possessing the alpha3 or alpha5 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor subunits and the enzyme acetylcholinesterase, with respect to tyrosine hydroxylase immunoreactive dopaminergic neurons in the rat substantia nigra. Most, but certainly not all, acetylcholinesterase immunoreactive cells were located in the pars compacta. In the substantia nigra pars compacta there were in turn two populations of acetylcholinesterase containing neurons: those that were tyrosine hydroxylase reactive and those that were not. Double label studies, that included an antibody immunoreactive against a common immunogen on alpha1 of muscle and alpha3 and alpha5 neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptor subunits, revealed that nearly all nicotinic receptor positive cells were also tyrosine hydroxylase neurons. However, a minority non-tyrosine hydroxylase population was alpha3- and/or alpha5-nAChR positive and these were always AChE-immunoreactive. In summary, there appears to be a close correlation between nicotinic receptors and acetylcholinesterase in the substantia nigra, irrespective of the transmitter phenotype in different neuronal subpopulations.

Galanin in the brain: chemoarchitectonics and brain cartography--a historical review

We present a review of galanin in the brain from a historical perspective of the development of "chemoarchitectonics" and "brain cartography" accomplished in the Histopharmacology Section at the National Institutes of Health. It was the mapping of potential brain neuroregulators that served as a springboard of ideas from which behavioral studies emanate. The integration of the known localization of neurotransmitter/neuromodulatory nerves ("chemoarchitectonic maps") and receptor binding sites with biochemical data derived from brain micropunches coupled with behavioral analysis at the level of discrete brain allows one to define the anatomical circuits which support behavioral changes and which ultimately will improve our understanding of mental disorders.

Nicotinic acetylcholine receptors: from structure to brain function

Nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) are ligand-gated ion channels and can be divided into two groups: muscle receptors, which are found at the skeletal neuromuscular junction where they mediate neuromuscular transmission, and neuronal receptors, which are found throughout the peripheral and central nervous system where they are involved in fast synaptic transmission. nAChRs are pentameric structures that are made up of combinations of individual subunits. Twelve neuronal nAChR subunits have been described, alpha2-alpha10 and beta2-beta4; these are differentially expressed throughout the nervous system and combine to form nAChRs with a wide range of physiological and pharmacological profiles. The nAChR has been proposed as a model of an allosteric protein in which effects arising from the binding of a ligand to a site on the protein can lead to changes in another part of the molecule. A great deal is known about the structure of the pentameric receptor. The extracellular domain contains binding sites for numerous ligands, which alter receptor behavior through allosteric mechanisms. Functional studies have revealed that nAChRs contribute to the control of resting membrane potential, modulation of synaptic transmission and mediation of fast excitatory transmission. To date, ten genes have been identified in the human genome coding for the nAChRs. nAChRs have been demonstrated to be involved in cognitive processes such as learning and memory and control of movement in normal subjects. Recent data from knockout animals has extended the understanding of nAChR function. Dysfunction of nAChR has been linked to a number of human diseases such as schizophrenia, Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. nAChRs also play a significant role in nicotine addiction, which is a major public health concern. A genetically transmissible epilepsy, ADNFLE, has been associated with specific mutations in the gene coding for the alpha4 or beta2 subunits, which leads to altered receptor properties.

Anti-addictive actions of an iboga alkaloid congener: a novel mechanism for a novel treatment

18-Methoxycoronaridine (18-MC), a novel iboga alkaloid congener that decreases drug self-administration in several animal models, may be a potential treatment for multiple forms of drug abuse. In animal models, 18-MC reduced intravenous morphine, cocaine, methamphetamine and nicotine self-administration, oral alcohol and nicotine intake, and attenuated signs of opioid withdrawal, but had no effect on responding for a nondrug reinforcer (water) and produced no apparent toxicity [Brain Res. 719 (1996) 29; NeuroReport 11 (2000) 2013; Pharmacol. Biochem. Behav. 58 (1997) 615; Psychopharmacology (Berl.) 139 (1998) 274; NeuroReport 9 (1998) 1283; Ann. N. Y. Acad. Sci. 914 (2000) 369]. Consistent with a relationship among drug sensitization, mesolimbic dopamine, and drug-seeking behavior, 18-MC also blocked the sensitized dopamine responses to morphine and cocaine in the nucleus accumbens. An extensive series of receptor studies showed that 18-MC was most potent and somewhat selective as an antagonist at alpha3beta4 nicotinic receptors. Low-dose combinations of 18-MC with other drugs known to have this same action (e.g., mecamylamine, dextromethorphan, bupropion) decreased morphine, methamphetamine, and nicotine self-administration in rats at doses that were ineffective if administered alone. Together, the data support the hypothesis that diencephalic pathways having high densities of alpha3beta4 nicotinic receptors modulate mesocorticolimbic pathways more directly involved in drug reinforcement. Antagonists of alpha3beta4 nicotinic receptors may represent a totally novel approach to treating multiple addictive disorders, and 18-MC might be the first of a new class of synthetic agents acting via this novel mechanism and having a broad spectrum of activity.

[125I]Epibatidine-labelled nicotinic receptors in the extended striatum and cerebral cortex: lack of association with serotonergic afferents

In rat extended striatum, most nicotinic cholinoceptors are likely to be presynaptic. A previous report suggested that DA and 5-HT afferents each account for at least 30% of nicotinic binding sites in the striatum. To explore this question further, rats received unilateral infusions of the neurotoxins 5,7-dihydroxytryptamine, 6-hydroxydopamine or vehicle into the medial forebrain bundle, and were sacrificed 3 weeks later. Denervation was quantified by [125I]RTI-55 autoradiography, using separate assay conditions that revealed DA and 5-HT transporters (i.e. DAT and SERT). Nicotinic cholinoceptors were quantified by [125I]epibatidine autoradiography. Infusion of 6-hydroxydopamine depleted DAT but not SERT labelling in all striatal areas (i.e. caudate-putamen, nucleus accumbens core and shell, olfactory tubercle). The serotonergic neurotoxin 5,7-dihydroxytryptamine depleted SERT and, to a lesser extent, DAT labelling. Both neurotoxins reduced [125I]epibatidine binding in striatal areas. Multiple linear regression analysis showed that these reductions in [125I]epibatidine binding were entirely associated with loss of DAT rather than SERT. The DAT-associated proportion of total [125I]epibatidine binding was 36+/-2% (caudate-putamen), 28+/-3% (accumbens core), 27+/-4% (accumbens shell) and 44+/-5% (olfactory tubercle). Cortical [125I]epibatidine binding was unaltered by 5,7-dihydroxytryptamine lesions that reduced SERT labelling by 46 to 73%. In all brain areas, even small (3.4 to 8.8%) SERT-associated reductions in [125I]epibatidine binding would have been detected as statistically significant. In conclusion, we report the failure to detect nAChRs on 5-HT terminals in extended striatum or cerebral cortex, using a sensitive [125I]epibatidine autoradiographic assay.

Measuring nicotinic receptors with characteristics of alpha4beta2, alpha3beta2 and alpha3beta4 subtypes in rat tissues by autoradiography

Comparison of [125I]epibatidine and 5-[125I]iodo-3-(2-azetidinylmethoxy)pyridine ([125I]A-85380) autoradiography showed evidence for nicotinic receptor heterogeneity. To identify the receptor subtypes, we performed [125I]epibatidine autoradiography in the presence of cytisine or A-85380. By comparing these results with binding data from human embryonic kidney (HEK) 293 cells stably transfected with different combinations of rat nicotinic receptor subunits, we were able to quantify three distinct populations of [125I]epibatidine binding sites with characteristics of alpha4beta2, alpha3beta2 and alpha3beta4 receptors. Although the predominant subtype in rat brain was alpha4beta2, non-alpha4beta2 binding sites were prominent in many regions. In the habenulo-peduncular system, cerebellum, substantia gelatinosa, and many medullary nuclei, alpha3beta4-like binding accounted for more than 40% of [125I]epibatidine binding, and nearly all binding in superior cervical ganglion and pineal gland. Other regions enriched in alpha3beta4-like binding included locus ceruleus, dorsal tegmentum, subiculum and anteroventral thalamic nucleus. Regions enriched in alpha3beta2-like binding included the habenulo-peduncular system, many visual system structures, certain geniculate nuclei, and dopaminergic regions. The combination of autoradiography using a broad spectrum radioligand in the presence of selective competitors, and data from binding to defined receptor subtypes in expression systems, allowed us to quantify the relative populations of these three subtypes.

Prolonged stimulation of presynaptic nicotinic acetylcholine receptors in the rat interpeduncular nucleus has differential effects on transmitter release

Alterations in nicotinic acetylcholine (nAChR) receptor number can be induced by chronic exposure to nicotine possibly by stabilization of the desensitized state(s) of the receptor. Since within the central nervous system (CNS), many nAChRs are localized presynaptically, we have investigated the physiological consequences of prolonged nicotine applications on spontaneous transmitter release. In the presence of glutamate receptor antagonists, bicuculline-sensitive spontaneous GABA inhibitory synaptic currents (IPSCs) could be readily resolved in whole-cell recordings from neurons in the interpeduncular nucleus (IPN) maintained as brain slices. Nicotine (300nM) caused a marked enhancement in the frequency of spontaneous events. During a 15min exposure to nicotine, the time course of changes in IPSC frequency could be divided into two groups. In most neurons, there was a fast increase in event frequency followed by a decline to a lower steady-state level that remained above baseline. In the remaining neurons, the effect of nicotine was more slowly developing and outlasted the application. Interestingly, the rapid effect was associated with a shift to higher amplitude events, whereas, no change in the IPSC amplitude histogram was observed during the slow onset effect. These data show that prolonged stimulation of presynaptic nicotinic receptors can have different outcomes that could potentially contribute to the diverse effects of nicotine on central information processing.

Ca(2+) changes induced by different presynaptic nicotinic receptors in separate populations of individual striatal nerve terminals

Presynaptic nicotinic acetylcholine receptors likely play a modulatory role in the nerve terminal. Using laser-scanning confocal microscopy, we have characterized physiological responses obtained on activation of presynaptic nicotinic receptors by measuring calcium changes in individual nerve terminals (synaptosomes) isolated from the rat corpus striatum. Nicotine (500 nM) induced Ca(2+) changes in a subset (10-25%) of synaptosomes. The Ca(2+) responses were dependent on extracellular Ca(2+) and desensitized very slowly (several minutes) on prolonged exposure to agonist. The nicotine-induced Ca(2+) responses were dose-dependent and were completely blocked by dihydro-beta-erythroidine (5 microM), differentially affected by mecamylamine (10 microM) and alpha-conotoxin MII (100 nM), and not affected by alpha-bungarotoxin (500 nM). Immunocytochemical studies using well-characterized monoclonal antibodies revealed the presence of the alpha4 and alpha3/alpha5 nicotinic subunits. The nicotine-induced responses were unaffected by prior depolarization or by a mixture of Ca(2+) channel toxins including omega-conotoxin MVIIC (500 nM), omega-conotoxin GVIA (500 nM) and agatoxin TK (200 nM). Our results indicate that nicotinic receptors present on striatal nerve terminals induce Ca(2+) entry largely without involving voltage-gated Ca(2+) channels, most likely by direct permeation via the receptor channel itself. In addition, at least two subpopulations of presynaptic nicotinic receptors reside on separate terminals in the striatum, suggesting distinct modulatory roles.

Nicotinic agonists stimulate acetylcholine release from mouse interpeduncular nucleus: a function mediated by a different nAChR than dopamine release from striatum

Acetylcholine release stimulated by nicotinic agonists was measured as radioactivity released from perfused synaptosomes prepared from mouse interpeduncular nucleus (IPN) that had been loaded with [(3)H]choline. Agonist-stimulated release was dependent upon external calcium and over 90% of released radioactivity was acetylcholine. The release process was characterized by dose response curves for 13 agonists and inhibition curves for six antagonists. alpha-Conotoxin MII did not inhibit this release, while alpha-conotoxin AuIB inhibited 50% of agonist-stimulated release. Comparison of this process with [(3)H]dopamine release from mouse striatal synaptosomes indicated that different forms of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) may mediate these processes. This was confirmed by assays using mice homozygous for the beta 2 subunit null mutation. The deletion of the beta 2 subunit had no effect on agonist-stimulated acetylcholine release, but abolished agonist-stimulated release of dopamine from striatal synaptosomes. Mice heterozygous for the beta 2 subunit null mutation showed decreased dopamine release evoked by L-nicotine with no apparent change in EC(50) value, as well as similar decreases in both transient and persistent phases of release with no changes in desensitization rates.

Nicotinic acetylcholine receptor subunit mRNA expression and channel function in medial habenula neurons

Relationships between nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) channel function and nAChR subunit mRNA expression were explored in acutely isolated rat medial habenula (MHb) neurons using a combination of whole-cell recording and single cell RT-PCR techniques. Following amplification using subunit-specific primers, subunits could be categorized in one of three ways: (i) present in 95-100% cells: alpha3, alpha4, alpha5, beta2 and beta4; (ii) never present: alpha2; and (iii) sometimes present ( approximately 40% cells): alpha6, alpha7 and beta3. These data imply that alpha2 subunits do not participate in nAChRs on MHb cells, that alpha6, alpha7 and beta3 subunits are not necessary for functional channels but may contribute in some cells, and that nAChRs may require combinations of all or subsets of alpha3, alpha4, alpha5, beta2 and beta4 subunits. Little difference in the patterns of subunit expression between nicotine-sensitive and insensitive cells were revealed based on this qualitative analysis, implying that gene transcription per se may be an insufficient determinant of nAChR channel function. Normalization of nAChR subunit levels to the amount of actin mRNA, however, revealed that cells with functional channels were associated with high levels (>0.78 relative to actin; 11/12 cells) of all of the category (i) subunits: alpha3, alpha4, alpha5, beta2 and beta4. Conversely, one or more of these subunits was always low (<0.40 relative to actin) in all cells with no detectable response to nicotine. Thus the formation of functional nAChR channels on MHb cells may require critical levels of several subunit mRNAs.

Nicotinic receptors co-localize with 5-HT(3) serotonin receptors on striatal nerve terminals

Nicotinic acetylcholine receptors and 5-HT(3) serotonin receptors are present on presynaptic nerve terminals in the striatum, where they have been shown to be involved in the regulation of dopamine release. Here, we explored the possibility that both receptor systems function on the same individual nerve terminals in the striatum, as assessed by confocal imaging of synaptosomes. On performing sequential stimulation, nicotine (500 nM) induced changes in [Ca(2+)](i) in most of the synaptosomes ( approximately 80%) that had previously responded to stimulation with the 5-HT(3) receptor agonist m-chlorophenylbiguanide (mCPBG; 100 nM), whereas mCPBG induced [Ca(2+)](i) responses in approximately half of the synaptosomes that showed responses on nicotinic stimulation. The 5-HT(3) receptor-specific antagonist tropisetron blocked only the mCPBG-induced responses, but not the nicotinic responses on the same synaptosomes. Immunocytochemical staining revealed extensive co-localization of the 5-HT(3) receptor with the alpha4 nicotinic receptor subunit on the same synaptosomes, but not with the alpha3 and/or alpha5 subunits. Immunoprecipitation studies indicate that the 5-HT(3) receptor and the alpha4 nicotinic receptor subunit do not interact on the nerve terminals. The presence of nicotinic and 5-HT(3) receptors on the same presynaptic striatal nerve terminal indicates a convergence of cholinergic and serotonergic systems in the striatum.

Identification of a novel nicotinic binding site in mouse brain using [(125)I]-epibatidine

[(125)I]-Epibatidine binds to multiple nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) subtypes with high affinity. In this study, [(125)I]-epibatidine was used to label and characterize a novel nAChR subtype found in mouse brain inferior colliculus, interpeduncular nucleus, and olfactory bulb homogenates. Binding of [(125)I]-epibatidine was saturable and apparently monophasic in each brain region (K:(D:)=71+/-12 pM mean+/-s.e.mean across regions) but inhibition of [(125)I]-epibatidine binding (200 pM) by A85380, cytisine and (-)-nicotine was biphasic, indicating the presence of multiple binding sites. The sites with lower agonist affinity comprised 30.0+/-2.2, 58.6+/-0.1 and 48.7+/-3.3% of specific [(125)I]-epibatidine (200 pM) binding in inferior colliculus, interpeduncular nucleus, and olfactory bulb homogenates, respectively. The affinity difference between A85380-sensitive and -resistant binding sites was particularly marked (approximately 1000 fold). Thus A85380 was used to differentiate agonist-sensitive and -resistant sites. The pharmacological profiles of the A85380-resistant sites in each region were assessed with inhibition binding experiments, using 14 agonists and five antagonists. The profiles were indistinguishable across regions, implying that A85380-resistant [(125)I]-epibatidine binding sites in inferior colliculus, interpeduncular nucleus, and olfactory bulb represent a single nAChR subtype. The pharmacological profile of the A85380-resistant sites is very different from that previously reported for high affinity (-)-[(3)H]-nicotine-, [(125)I]-alpha-bungarotoxin-, or [(125)I]-alpha-conotoxin MII-binding sites, suggesting that they represent a novel nAChR population in mouse brain.

Neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptors: a new target site of ethanol

Whereas a variety of neuroreceptors and ion channels have been demonstrated to be affected by ethanol including GABAA receptors, NMDA receptors, non-NMDA glutamate receptors, 5-HT3 receptors and voltage-gated calcium channels, neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nnAChRs) have recently emerged as a new target site of ethanol. The nnAChRs are different from the muscle type nicotinic AChRs with respect to their molecular architecture and pharmacology. This article briefly reviews the structure, distribution and function of nnAChRs for which a considerable amount of information has been rapidly accumulated during the past 5-10 years. The potent and unique action of ethanol on nnAChRs has been unveiled only during the past few years. Most recent developments along this line of ethanol action are discussed in this paper.

Alpha3beta4 subunit-containing nicotinic receptors dominate function in rat medial habenula neurons

Regional-specific differences in nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) were examined using the whole-cell patch clamp technique in rat medial habenula (MHb) slices. The majority of cells in the ventral two thirds of the MHb responded robustly to local pressure application of nAChR agonists. Mean agonist potency profiles in the middle and ventral thirds of the MHb were similar: cytisine was the most potent agonist and DMPP the weakest, consistent with a significant contribution of the beta4 subunit to functional nAChRs in all areas of the MHb. In acutely isolated MHb neurons, the alpha3beta4-selective toxin alpha-CTx-AuIB (1 microM) reversibly blocked approximately 75% of the nicotine-induced currents, as expected for cells solely expressing alpha3beta4 nAChRs. However, the alpha3beta2-selective toxin, alpha-CTx-MII (100 nM), blocked a variable fraction (0-90%) of the MHb nicotinic response implying that beta2 subunits may contribute to some functional receptors. We suggest that the effects of alpha-CTx-MII may arise from interaction with alpha3beta2beta4 subunit-containing nAChRs. This idea is supported by the findings (1) that alpha-CTx-MII antagonizes receptors comprised of alpha3, beta2 and beta4 subunits in Xenopus oocytes, and (2) that a mutant alpha-CTx-MII toxin[H12A], which blocks alpha3beta2beta4 receptors but not alpha3beta2 or alpha3beta4 nAChRs, also reduces nicotinic currents in some MHb neurons. Overall these data imply that most functional nAChRs on MHb cells contain at least alpha3 and beta4 subunits, and that a variable subpopulation additionally contains the beta2 subunit.

Molecular diversity of neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptors

The potent behavioral and cognitive effects of nicotine highlight the physiological importance of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs). These receptors are part of the superfamily of neurotransmitter-gated ion channels that are responsible for rapid intercellular communication. Molecular cloning of the protein subunits that make up these receptors has led to greater understanding of the pharmacology and physiology of nAChRs. This review outlines our current understanding of the molecular constituents of these receptors and some of the recent studies of the structural determinants of receptors function.

Presynaptic ionotropic receptors and the control of transmitter release

The quantity of neurotransmitter released into the synaptic cleft, the reliability with which it is released, and the response of the postsynaptic cell to that transmitter all contribute to the strength of a synaptic connection. The presynaptic nerve terminal is a major regulatory site for activity-dependent changes in synaptic function. Ionotropic receptors for the inhibitory amino acid GABA, expressed on the presynaptic terminals of crustacean motor axons and vertebrate sensory neurons, were the first well-defined mechanism for the heterosynaptic transmitter-mediated regulation of transmitter release. Recently, presynaptic ionotropic receptors for a large range of transmitters have been found to be widespread throughout the central and peripheral nervous systems. In this review, we first consider some general theoretical issues regarding whether and how presynaptic ionotropic receptors are important regulators of presynaptic function. We consider the criteria that should be met to identify a presynaptic ionotropic receptor and its regulatory function and review several examples of presynaptic receptors that meet at least some of those criteria. We summarize the classic studies of presynaptic inhibition mediated by GABA-gated Cl channels and then focus on presynaptic nicotinic ACh receptors and presynaptic glutamate receptors. Finally, we briefly discuss evidence for other types of presynaptic ionotropic receptors.

Postsynaptic nicotinic receptors on dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta of the rat

Previous studies have shown that application of nicotinic agonists in the substantia nigra pars compacta increases the firing rate of dopaminergic neurons. We have used intracellular recordings to show that the response of these neurons to nicotine is postsynaptic, since it persists in the presence of low-calcium buffer containing tetrodotoxin. Burst firing in the presence of nicotine was not observed. The presence of postsynaptic nicotinic receptors was confirmed by immunohistochemical localization of the alpha4 nicotinic receptor subunit on dendrites in the substantia nigra pars compacta. The majority of tyrosine hydroxylase-immunopositive neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta were also immunopositive for the alpha4 subunit. Immunohistochemical localization of the alpha4 and beta2 subunits in adjacent brain sections produced similar patterns of staining. Electron micrographs clearly indicated the presence of alpha4 subunit at postsynaptic densities. The predominant role of nicotinic receptors in the central nervous system has been suggested to be the presynaptic modulation of neurotransmitter release [McGehee D. S. and Role L. W. (1995) A. Rev. Physiol. 57, 521-546]. Although several postsynaptic nicotinic responses have also been reported in the literature, it is unclear as to whether the postsynaptic nicotinic receptors mediating responses to exogenously applied agonists are involved in synaptic transmission. From our electrophysiological and immunohistochemical results, we conclude that alpha4-containing nicotinic receptors are found at synapses on dopaminergic neurons. These synapses are similar to the cholinergic synapses described at these neurons, suggesting that nicotinic receptors are important in modulating the excitability of dopaminergic neurons by direct synaptic transmission.

Role of Ca2+ ions in nicotinic facilitation of GABA release in mouse thalamus

Presynaptic nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) are present in many regions of the brain and potentially serve as targets for the pharmacological action of nicotine in vivo. To investigate their mechanism of action, we performed patch-clamp recordings in relay neurons from slices of thalamus sensory nuclei. In these nuclei, nAChR activation facilitated the release of the inhibitory neurotransmitter GABA. Micromolar concentrations of nicotinic agonists increased the frequency of miniature GABAergic synaptic currents and decreased the failure rate of evoked synaptic currents. These actions of nicotinic agonists were not observed in knock-out mice lacking the beta 2 nAChR subunit gene. Nicotinic effects were dependent on extracellular calcium ions, and they persisted when calcium was replaced by strontium or barium but not by magnesium. Furthermore, in high extracellular calcium concentrations, nicotinic agonists evoked an increase in spontaneous release lasting for minutes after removal of the agonist. This supports the view that presynaptic nAChRs facilitate the release of neurotransmitter by increasing the calcium concentrations in presynaptic nerve endings. With use of cadmium and nickel ions as selective blockers, it was found that in different sensory nuclei the presynaptic influx of calcium could result either from the activation of voltage-dependent calcium channels or from a direct influx through nAChR channels. Finally, we propose that the nicotinic facilitation of GABAergic transmission may contribute to the increase of signal-to-noise ratio observed in the thalamus in vivo during arousal.

Direct recording of nicotinic responses in presynaptic nerve terminals

Nicotinic acetylcholine receptors are widely expressed in the nervous system, but their functions remain poorly understood. One attractive hypothesis is that the receptors act presynaptically to modulate synaptic transmission. We provide a direct demonstration of presynaptic nicotinic receptors in situ by using whole-cell patch-clamp techniques to record currents in large presynaptic calyces that midbrain neurons form on ciliary neurons. Bath application of nicotine induced inward currents in the calyces capable of generating action potentials that overrode the limited space clamp achievable. The inward currents reversed near 0 mV and showed inward rectification common for neuronal nicotinic receptors. Tetrodotoxin (TTX) blocked the action potentials but not the inward currents. alpha-Bungarotoxin blocked both, consistent with the presynaptic receptors containing alpha7 subunits. Recording from the postsynaptic ciliary neurons during nicotine exposure revealed EPSCs that TTX blocked, presumably by blocking presynaptic action potentials. The postsynaptic cells also displayed bimodal inward currents caused by their own nicotinic receptors; the bimodal currents were not blocked by TTX but were blocked partially by alpha-bungarotoxin and completely by D-tubocurarine. Dye-filling with Lucifer yellow from the recording pipette confirmed the identity of patched structures and showed no dye transfer between calyx and ciliary neuron. When calyces or ciliary neurons were labeled en mass with neurobiotin and biocytin through nerve roots, dye transfer was rarely observed. Thus, electrical synapses were infrequent and unlikely to influence calyx responses. Immunochemical analysis of preganglionic nerve extracts identified receptors that bind alpha-bungarotoxin and contain alpha7 subunits. The results unambiguously document the existence of functional presynaptic nicotinic receptors.

A population of nicotinic receptors is associated with thalamocortical afferents in the adult rat: laminal and areal analysis

In the adult rat brain, a prominent population of nicotinic cholinoceptors binds 3H-nicotine with nanomolar affinity. These receptors are abundant in most thalamic nuclei and in neocortical layers 3/4, which receive a major thalamic input. To test whether cortical nicotinic receptors are associated with thalamocortical afferents, unilateral excitotoxic (N-methyl-D-aspartate) lesions were made in one of four thalamic nuclear groups (anterior, ventral, medial geniculate, or dorsal lateral geniculate) or in temporal cortex. After 1 or 4 weeks of survival, cortical 3H-nicotine binding was quantified via autoradiography. Thalamic lesions resulted in a partial loss of 3H-nicotine binding in ipsilateral cerebral cortex. In each thalamic lesion group, the greatest decrease (35-45%) occurred within the cortical layers and area (i.e., cingulate, parietal, temporal, or occipital cortex) receiving the densest thalamocortical innervation. Binding of 3H-nicotine was also reduced within the thalamus local to the lesion, particularly at the longer survival time. Saturation analysis, performed in frontoparietal cortical tissue homogenates following ventral thalamic lesions, revealed a significant (34%) reduction in receptor density but not affinity. Direct excitotoxic lesions of the neocortex (temporal cortex) tended to preserve 3H-nicotine binding in layers 3/4, despite local neuronal loss. These results, taken with other published findings, suggest that some nicotinic cholinoceptors in adult rat cerebral cortex are located on thalamocortical terminals. This organizing principle appears to apply not only to sensory and motor relay projections but also to association nuclei that project to allocortical areas. These receptors may provide a local mechanism for nicotinic cholinergic modulation of thalamocortical input.

Presynaptic nicotinic ACh receptors

Nicotinic ACh (nACh) receptors in the CNS are composed of a diverse array of subunits and have a range of pharmacological properties. However, despite the fact that they are ligand-gated cation channels, their physiological functions have not been determined. This has led to increased interest in presynaptic nACh receptors that act to modulate the release of transmitter from presynaptic terminals.

Pharmacology of neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptor subtypes

The search for the physiological function of nicotinic receptors on neurons in the brain began with their discovery. It was initially assumed that, as in ganglia and at the neuromuscular junction, nicotinic receptors would gate fast synaptic transmission in the brain. The best functional evidence now, however, points to a role in modifying the release of other transmitters. This does not preclude a postsynaptic role in transmission for nicotinic receptors in the brain, but attempts to locate such a synapse have not been successful. If fast nicotinic synapses are present in the brain, they are probably low in number and may be masked by other more prevalent synapses (such as glutamatergic) so identification will not be easy. The extent of diversity of nicotinic receptors is substantial. At the molecular level this is reflected in the number of different genes that encode receptor subunits and the multiple possible combinations of subunits that function in expression systems. From the cellular level there is a broad diversity of properties of native receptors in neurons. Some useful pharmacological tools allow the limited identification of subunits in native receptors. For example, block by alpha-bungarotoxin identifies alpha 7, alpha 8, or alpha 9 subunits; activation of a receptor by cytisine indicates an alpha 7 or beta 4 subunit; and neuronal bungarotoxin block identifies a beta 2 subunit. Despite the clues to identity gained by careful use of these agents, we have not been able to identify all the components of any native receptor based on pharmacological properties assessed from expression studies. When both pharmacological and biophysical properties of a receptor are taken into consideration, none of the combinations tested in oocytes mimics native receptors exactly. The reason for this discrepancy has been debated at length; it is possible that oocytes do not faithfully manufacture neuronal nicotinic receptors. For example, they may not correctly modify the protein after translation or they may allow a combination of subunits that do not occur in vivo. Another possibility is that correct combinations of subunits have not yet been tested in oocytes. Data from immunoprecipitation experiments suggest that many receptors contain three or more different subunits. Results from further experiments injecting combinations of three or more subunits into oocytes may be enlightening. The diversity of receptors may allow targeting of subtypes to specific locations. Nicotinic receptors are located presynaptically, preterminally, and on the cell soma. The function of the nicotinic receptors located on innervating axons is presumably to modify the release of other neurotransmitters. It is an attractive hypothesis that nicotinic receptors might be involved in modifying the weight of central synapses; however, in none of the regions where this phenomenon has been described is there any evidence for axoaxonal contacts. The presynaptic receptors described so far are pharmacologically unique; therefore, if there are different subtypes of nicotinic receptors modifying the release of different transmitters, they may provide a means of exogenously modifying the release of a particular transmitter with drugs. There are still many basic unanswered questions about nicotinic receptors in the brain. What are the compositions of native nicotinic receptors? What is their purpose on neurons? Although there is clearly a role presynaptically, what is the function of those located on the soma? Neuronal nicotinic receptors are highly permeable to calcium, unlike muscle nicotinic receptors, and this may have important implications for roles in synaptic plasticity and development. Finally, why is there such diversity? (ABSTRACT TRANCATED)

Presumptive presynaptic nicotinic acetylcholine receptors in the chick tectum: effects of lesions of the lateral spiriform nucleus

There are indications that nicotinic acetylcholine receptor subunits in the superficial layers of the chick tectum (Cajal's layers 1-7) may be transported from the retina. However, nicotinic receptor subunits are detectable by immunohistochemistry in all layers of the optic tectum. In this study, we performed unilateral electrolytic lesions of the lateral spiriform nucleus, which projects to the deep layers of the tectum and contains high amounts of nicotinic receptors in its perikarya. Following lesions of the lateral spiriform nucleus, both the alpha 5 and the beta 2 subunits were markedly depleted in the neuropil of the deep layers of the ipsilateral optic tectum (layers 8-13). No changes were observed in somata that contain either subunit. The present results suggest that most of the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor subunits in the chick optic tectum occur in axonal systems and could then constitute presynaptic receptors.

Presynaptic ionotropic receptors

Recent studies have provided new insights into the role of presynaptic ligand-gated ion channels in modifying synaptic transmission. Along with a growing list of different types of presynaptic ionotropic receptors and the cell types that express them, there have been advances in characterizing the molecular components of the receptors as well as the signaling processes that link receptor activation to changes in neurotransmitter release. Perhaps most striking is the recent convergence of data from biochemical, molecular and electrophysiological studies, implicating presynaptic ionotropic receptors in the effects of psychoactive and addictive drugs.

Nicotine enhancement of fast excitatory synaptic transmission in CNS by presynaptic receptors

The behavioral and cognitive effects of nicotine suggest that nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) participate in central nervous system (CNS) function. Although nAChR subunit messenger RNA (mRNA) and nicotine binding sites are common in the brain, there is little evidence for synapses mediated by nAChRs in the CNS. To test whether, CNS nAChRs might modify rather than mediate transmission, the regulation of excitatory synaptic transmission by these receptors was examined. Nanomolar concentrations of nicotine enhanced both glutamatergic and cholinergic synaptic transmission by activation of presynaptic nAChRs that increased presynaptic [Ca2]i. Pharmacological and subunit deletion experiments reveal that these presynaptic nAChRs include the alpha 7 subunit. These findings reveal that CNS nAChRs enhance fast excitatory transmission, providing a likely mechanism for the complex behavioral effects of nicotine.

Effects of retinal lesions upon the distribution of nicotinic acetylcholine receptor subunits in the chick visual system

Immunohistochemistry was used in this study to evaluate the effects of retinal lesions upon the distribution of neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptor subunits in the chick visual system. Following unilateral retinal lesions, the neuropil staining with an antibody against the beta 2 receptor subunit, a major component of alpha-bungarotoxin-insensitive nicotinic receptors, was dramatically reduced or completely eliminated in all of the contralateral retinorecipient structures. On the other hand, neuropil staining with antibodies against two alpha-bungarotoxin-sensitive receptor subunits, alpha 7 and alpha 8, was only slightly affected after retinal lesions. Decreased neuropil staining for alpha 7-like immunoreactivity was only observed in the nucleus of the basal optic root and layers 2-4 and 7 of the optic tectum. For alpha 8-like immunoreactivity, slight reduction of neuropil staining could be observed in the ventral geniculate complex, griseum tecti, nucleus lateralis anterior, nucleus lentiformis mesencephali, layers 4 and 7 of the tectum, and nucleus suprachiasmaticus. Taken together with previous data on the localization of nicotinic receptors in the retina, the present results indicate that the beta 2 subunit is transported from retinal ganglion cells to their central targets, whereas the alpha 7 and alpha 8 subunit immunoreactivity appears to have a central origin. The source of these immunoreactivities could be, at least in part, the stained perikarya that were observed to contain alpha 7 and alpha 8 subunits in all retinorecipient areas. In agreement with this hypothesis, the beta 2 subunit of the nicotinic acetylcholine receptors was not frequently found in perikarya of the same areas.

Nicotinic acetylcholine receptors in the ground squirrel retina: localization of the beta 4 subunit by immunohistochemistry and in situ hybridization

Immunohistochemical and in situ hybridization techniques were used to localize the beta 4 subunit of the neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) in the ground squirrel retina. The beta 4 nAChR subunit was detected in both transverse and horizontal sections of the retina using a subunit-specific antiserum and the avidin-biotin complex technique. Two bands of labeled processes were seen in the inner plexiform layer, corresponding approximately to the laminae where the cholinergic cells arborize. Labeled cells were found in the ganglion cell layer and the inner third of the inner nuclear layer. The cells in the ganglion cell layer were medium- to large-sized and were frequently observed to give rise to axon-like processes. Most of the labeled neurons in the inner nuclear layer were small presumptive amacrine cells, but a few medium-to-large cells were also labeled. These could constitute a different class of amacrine cells or displaced ganglion cells. The latter possibility is supported by the existence of nAChR-containing displaced ganglion cells in the avian retina. In situ hybridization with a 35S-labeled cRNA probe revealed the expression of mRNA coding for the nAChR beta 4 subunit in the ganglion cell layer and the inner third of the inner nuclear layer. This finding confirmed the immunohistochemical data of the cellular localization of beta 4 nAChR subunit. These results indicate that the beta 4 nAChR subunit is expressed by specific subtypes of neurons on the ground squirrel retina.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Nicotinic receptor activation facilitates GABAergic neurotransmission in the avian lateral spiriform nucleus

Whole-cell patch clamp recordings were performed in embryonic chick brain slices to characterize responses to nicotinic receptor activation in the mesencephalic lateral spiriform nucleus. Using intracellular recording, we previously reported the presence of functional high-affinity nicotinic sites in this nucleus that are insensitive to blockade with kappa- and alpha-bungarotoxin. We now report that nicotinic agonists not only produce an inward current in these cells, but also elicit a massive increase in the frequency of spontaneous postsynaptic currents without changing the amplitude distribution or risetime and decay kinetics of these events. The nicotinic receptor antagonist, dihydro-beta-erythroidine, blocks both the postsynaptic inward current and the enhancement of spontaneous postsynaptic currents. The spontaneous currents reverse at or near the chloride ion equilibrium potential and are completely blocked by 10 microM bicuculline, indicating that these events are likely to be GABAergic inhibitory postsynaptic currents. The nicotinic agonist-induced enhancement in inhibitory postsynaptic current frequency is blocked by 1.0 microM tetrodotoxin, demonstrating that the effect is mediated through the activation of voltage-dependent sodium channels. Nicotinic receptors are widely distributed in the central nervous system and in some cases are thought to modulate the release of various neurotransmitters. Our results show that activation of nicotinic receptors facilitates inhibitory neurotransmission in the avian lateral spiriform nucleus by increasing the frequency of spontaneous GABAergic postsynaptic currents. These data support a role for nicotinic receptors in the regulation of GABA release from nerve terminals in this nucleus.

The fall and rise of neuronal alpha-bungarotoxin binding proteins

Although neuronal [125I]-alpha-bungarotoxin binding proteins are similar in many respects to muscle nicotinic acetylcholine receptors, their functional significance has eluded researchers for the past fifteen years. Over this period, their status became increasingly doubtful, as almost all attempts failed to demonstrate that alpha-bungarotoxin could block neuronal nicotinic responses. Recently, these enigmatic proteins have been cloned and expressed in oocytes, and have been examined afresh in their native state. As Paul Clarke explains, it is time to recognize neuronal alpha-bungarotoxin binding proteins as distinct members of the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor gene family, even if perhaps they do not function quite like other members.

Muscarinic M2 receptor mRNA expression and receptor binding in cholinergic and non-cholinergic cells in the rat brain: a correlative study using in situ hybridization histochemistry and receptor autoradiography

The goal of the present study was to identify the cells containing mRNA coding for the m2 subtype of muscarinic cholinergic receptors in the rat brain. In situ hybridization histochemistry was used, with oligonucleotides as hybridization probes. The distribution of cholinergic cells was examined in consecutive sections with probes complementary to choline acetyltransferase mRNA. Furthermore, the microscopic distribution of muscarinic cholinergic binding sites was examined with a non-selective ligand ([3H]N-methylscopolamine) and with ligands proposed to be M1-selective ([3H]pirenzepine) or M2-selective ([3H]oxotremorine-M). The majority of choline acetyltransferase mRNA-rich (i.e. cholinergic) cell groups (medial septum-diagonal band complex, nucleus basalis, pedunculopontine and laterodorsal tegmental nuclei, nucleus parabigeminalis, several motor nuclei of the brainstem, motoneurons of the spinal cord), also contained m2 mRNA, strongly suggesting that at least a fraction of these receptors may be presynaptic autoreceptors. A few groups of cholinergic cells were an exception to this fact: the medial habenula and some cranial nerve nuclei (principal oculomotor, trochlear, abducens, dorsal motor nucleus of the vagus). Furthermore, m2 mRNA was not restricted to cholinergic cells but was also present in many other cells throughout the rat brain. The distribution of m2 mRNA was in good, although not complete, agreement with that of binding sites for the M2 preferential agonist [3H]oxotremorine-M, but not with [3H]pirenzepine binding sites. Regions where the presence of [3H]oxotremorine-M binding sites was not correlated with that of m2 mRNA are the caudate-putamen, nucleus accumbens, olfactory tubercle and islands of Calleja. The present results strongly suggest that the M2 receptor is expressed by a majority of cholinergic cells, where it probably plays a role as autoreceptor. However, many non-cholinergic neurons also express this receptor, which would be, presumably, postsynaptically located. Finally, comparison between the distribution of m2 mRNA and that of the proposed M2-selective ligand [3H]oxotremorine-M indicates that this ligand, in addition to M2 receptors, may also recognize in certain brain areas other muscarinic receptor populations, particularly M4.

Effects of acute subcutaneous nicotine on attention, information processing and short-term memory in Alzheimer's disease

This single-blind, placebo controlled study reports on the effects of administering three acute doses of nicotine (0.4, 0.6 and 0.8 mg) subcutaneously to a group of Alzheimer's disease (DAT) patients (n = 22), young adult controls (n = 24), and normal aged controls (n = 24). The study extends our previous findings obtained using smaller groups of subjects. Drug effects were examined on three computerised tests: the first measuring rapid visual information processing, sustained visual attention and reaction time (RVIP task); a delayed response matching to location-order task measuring sustained visual attention and visual short-term memory (DRMLO task); and a finger tapping test measuring simple reaction time (FT task). The critical flicker fusion test (CFF) was used as a measure of perception and the WAIS digit span forwards (DS), of auditory short-term memory. Tests were graded in difficulty, titrated to avoid floor and ceiling effects so that meaningful, direct comparisons between groups could be made. Nicotine significantly improved sustained visual attention (in both RVIP and DRMLO tasks), reaction time (in both FT and RVIP tasks), and perception (CFF task--both ascending and descending thresholds). Nicotine administration did not improve auditory and visual short-term memory. There were no consistent, overall patterns of difference in performance between smokers and non-smokers in the control groups, or between males and females in any group. Despite the absence of change in memory functioning, these results demonstrate that DAT patients have significant perceptual and visual attentional deficits which are improved by nicotine administration.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Room temperature culture extends the useful life of adult neurons for voltage-clamp experiments

Isolated superior cervical ganglion (SCG) neurons were maintained in vitro at 22 degrees C (22 degrees C neurons) for up to 4 days in an effort to inhibit process outgrowth and thus extend the useful life of SCG neurons for voltage-clamp experiments. The neurons were viable after 4 days in vitro and remained roughly spherical whereas neurons maintained in vitro at 37 degrees C (37 degrees C neurons) developed extensive neurite processes after 2 days. The resting potential of 22 degrees C neurons was more hyperpolarized and the action potential duration was reduced compared to acutely isolated neurons (acute neurons) or 37 degrees C neurons. The steady state Na+ current activation and inactivation parameters of the acute and 22 degrees C neurons were similar whereas the half activation voltage was hyperpolarized and the slope factor of inactivation was reduced for the 37 degrees C neurons compared to the other two groups. The Na+ currents recorded from the 37 degrees C neurons displayed obvious signs of poor voltage control which were not observed in the acute or 22 degrees C neurons. The acetylcholine (ACh) sensitivity of both 22 degrees C and 37 degrees C neurons was significantly less than that of the acute neurons. This report demonstrates that room temperature culture of SCG neurons is a simple method which prevents process outgrowth and thus extends the useful life of the neurons for voltage-clamp experiments.

Nicotinic cholinoceptive neurons of the frontal cortex are reduced in Alzheimer's disease

The cellular distribution of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors was studied in the frontal cortex (area 10) of 1) Alzheimer patients and compared to 2) age-matched and 3) middle-aged controls using the monoclonal antibody WF 6 and an immunoperoxidase protocol. Statistical analysis revealed significant differences between the number of labeled neurons among all three groups tested (middle-aged controls greater than aged controls greater than Alzheimer cases). No differences were seen for cresyl violet-stained samples. These findings underline that the nicotinic receptor decrease found with radioligand binding may reflect a postsynaptic in addition to a presynaptic component.