Guanine nucleotide regulation of agonist interactions at [3H]SCH23390-labeled D1 dopamine receptors in rat striatum

G(olf) in the basal ganglia

All neurotransmitter and hormone receptors that stimulate adenylyl cyclase are thought to do so via the alpha subunit of the guanine nucleotide binding (G) protein G(s). The basal ganglia contain a well-characterized dopamine-stimulated adenylyl cyclase and D1 dopamine receptors coupled to G(s) are thought to mediate this activity. We have found using immunohistochemistry, immunoblotting, and cholera toxin-dependent ADP ribosylation that the rat basal ganglia contain very high levels of a G(salpha)-like protein; however, it is distinct from the G(s) in other brain regions. Furthermore, in situ hybridization and Northern blot studies showed that the striatum contains remarkably low levels of G(salpha) mRNA. G(olf) is a G protein recently cloned from olfactory sensory neurons which can also stimulate adenylyl cyclase. We have now discovered high levels of G(olf) mRNA expression in the striatum, nucleus accumbens, and olfactory tubercle. Northern blot analyses indicate that in the striatum, G(olf) transcripts are approximately 10-fold more abundant than G(salpha) transcripts. Thus G(olf) is not an olfactory neuronspecific G protein. It is also the major stimulatory G protein in the basal ganglia, where it may couple D 1 dopamine receptors to adenylyl cyclase.

Dopamine D1 receptor-induced signaling through TrkB receptors in striatal neurons

In addition to its role as a neurotransmitter, dopamine can stimulate neurite outgrowth and morphological effects upon primary neurons. To investigate the signal transduction mechanisms used by dopamine in developing striatal neurons, we focused upon the effects of activating the dopamine D1 receptor. Using the D1 receptor agonist SKF38393, we found that Trk neurotrophin receptors were activated in embryonic day 18 striatal neurons. K-252a, a Trk tyrosine kinase inhibitor, and a dopamine D1 receptor antagonist could block the effects of SKF38393. The increase in TrkB phosphorylation was not the result of increased neurotrophin production. Induction of TrkB activity by SKF38393 was accompanied by the phosphorylation of several Trk signaling proteins, including phospholipase Cgamma, Akt, and MAPK. Biotinylation experiments followed by immunostaining by phospho-TrkB-specific antibodies indicated that the mechanism involved increased TrkB surface expression by dopamine D1 receptor activation. This increase in cell surface TrkB expression was dependent upon an increase in intracellular Ca(2+). These results indicate that stimulation of dopamine D1 receptors can be coupled to the neurotrophin receptor signaling to mediate the effects of dopamine upon striatal neurons.

Dopamine D2 receptor-mediated G protein activation assessed by agonist-stimulated [35S]guanosine 5'-O-(gamma-thiotriphosphate) binding in rat striatal membranes

In order to investigate the functional interaction between the native dopamine receptors and their coupled guanine nucleotide-binding regulatory (G) proteins, dopamine-stimulated [(35)S]guanosine 5'-O-(gamma-thiotriphosphate) ([(35)S]GTPgammaS) binding was pharmacologically characterized in rat striatal membranes. Following optimizing the experimental conditions as to the concentrations of GDP, MgCl(2) and NaCl in the assay medium, the agonist and antagonist properties for a series of dopamine receptor ligands were determined mainly under the standard assay condition. The pharmacological profile of this response clearly indicated the involvement of dopamine D(2)-like receptors, but not of dopamine D(1)-like receptors. Among the types of dopamine D(2)-like receptors, dopamine D(2) receptors most likely appeared to be involved in dopamine-stimulated [(35)S]GTPgammaS binding in rat striatal membranes, because the affinities of agonists and antagonists determined in the present study were significantly correlated with those reported in the previous literature only for dopamine D(2) receptors, but not for dopamine D(3) or D(4) types. Though the concentration-dependent inhibition curves of dopamine-stimulated [(35)S]GTPgammaS binding by spiperone and S(-)-raclopride were apparently biphasic, the origin of the low-affinity minor components was not fully determined. The antiparkinsonian drugs with the properties of dopamine receptor agonism were shown to behave as stimulants with varied affinities and relative efficacies in the current assay system. On the other hand, neither phencyclidine (PCP) nor ketamine stimulated the specific [(35)S]GTPgammaS binding, in contrast with the previous report demonstrating that these two N-methyl-D-aspartic acid (NMDA) receptor antagonists behaved as agonists at human dopamine D(2) receptors expressed in Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells. These results provide important information about the functional activation of G proteins coupled with dopamine D(2) receptors as well as agonist actions of various compounds at native dopamine D(2) receptors, which are potentially involved in pathophysiology and pharmacotherapy of neuropsychiatric diseases such as Parkinson's disease, schizophrenia and depression.

In vitro and in vivo characterization of F-97013-GD, a partial 5-HT1A agonist with antipsychotic- and antiparkinsonian-like properties

In order to better define the role of 5-HT(1A) receptors in the modulation of extrapyramidal motor functions, we investigated the effect of 5-HT(1A) agonists on tacrine-induced tremulous jaw movements (TJM) in rats, a putative model of parkinsonian tremor. Acute injection of 5-HT(1A) agonists 8-OH-DPAT and buspirone dose-dependently counteracted the tacrine-induced oral movements (ED(50)=0.04 and 1.0mg/kg, respectively), an effect reversed by the selective 5-HT(1A) antagonist WAY 100,635. In contrast to classical antipsychotics, the atypical antipsychotics risperidone (ED(50)=0.3mg/kg) and clozapine (ED(50)=1.5mg/kg) blocked the oral movements induced by the cholinomimetic agent at or below the doses required for suppression of conditioned avoidance response. The compound F-97013-GD (6-methyl-2-[4-(naphtylpiperazin-1-yl)butyl]-3-(2H)-pyridazinone), a putative antipsychotic drug that in functional in vitro and in vivo assays behaved as a mixed dopamine D(2)-antagonist and 5-HT(1A)-partial agonist, also displayed a potent antitremorgenic effect in this paradigm (ED(50)=0.5mg/kg). Interestingly, pretreatment with WAY 100,635 blocked the inhibitory effect of F-97013-GD but not that of clozapine. The 5-HT depleting agent para-chlorophenylalanine (PCPA) partially attenuated tacrine-induced TJM but did not block the suppressive effect of 5-HT(1A) agonists. In addition, only high doses of F-97013-GD induced catalepsy in rodents and, like 8-OH-DPAT and clozapine, the compound reversed the haloperidol-induced catalepsy in rats. These results show that 5-HT(1A) receptors play a role in the regulation of tacrine-induced TJM and suggest that their activation by novel antipsychotics may not only reduce the extrapyramidal side effects EPS liability, but also be effective in the treatment of parkinsonian tremor.

Preclinical pharmacology of F-98214-TA, a novel potent serotonin and norepinephrine uptake inhibitor with antidepressant and anxiolytic properties

RATIONALE

Serotonin (5-HT) and norepinephrine (NE) re-uptake inhibitors (SNRIs) have been proposed to have a higher efficacy and/or faster onset of action than previously available antidepressants.

OBJECTIVES

We examined in biochemical, electrophysiological and behavioural assays the antidepressant properties of (S)-(-)-4-[(3-fluorophenoxy)-phenyl]methyl-piperidine (F-98214-TA), a compound that displays very high affinity for 5-HT and NE transporters.

RESULTS

F-98214-TA potently inhibited the uptake of both 5-HT and NE into rat brain synaptosomes (IC50 = 1.9 and 11.2 nM, respectively) and decreased the electrical activity of dorsal raphe serotonergic neurones (ED50 = 530.3 microg/kg i.v.), an effect completely abolished by the 5-HT(1A) antagonist WAY100,635. In acute behavioural assays in mice, the orally administered compound potentiated the 5-hydroxy-tryptophan (5-HTP)-induced syndrome [minimal effective dose (MED) = 10 mg/kg], antagonized the hypothermia induced by a high dose of apomorphine (ED50 = 2 mg/kg) and reduced the immobility in the tail suspension test (MED = 10 mg/kg). Moreover, it also decreased the immobility in the forced swimming test in mice and rats (30 mg/kg, p.o.). Chronic administration of F-98214-TA (14 days, 30 mg kg(-1) day(-1), p.o.) attenuated the hyperactivity induced by olfactory bulbectomy in rats, confirming its antidepressant-like properties. Interestingly, the same dosage regimen significantly increased the social interaction time in rats, suggesting an additional potential anxiolytic activity. In most assays the compound was more potent than fluoxetine, venlafaxine and desipramine.

CONCLUSIONS

F-98214-TA is a novel SNRI that displays greater potency than other reference antidepressants in animal models predictive of antidepressant and anxiolytic activities.

Limbic pallidal adaptations following long-term cessation of dopaminergic transmission: lack of upregulation of dopamine receptor function

Neurons in the ventral pallidum (VP) exhibit robust responding to activation of dopamine (DA) receptors of the D1 class. To determine if the VP adapts to chronic cessation of DA transmission, the present studies examined D1 receptor-mediated responses in the VP recorded extracellularly in chloral-hydrate anesthetized rats following destruction of DA neurons with 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) or long-term treatment with the D1 antagonist SCH23390. Indices of basal spiking (i.e., spontaneous firing rate and pattern) recorded 10-21 days after unilateral 6-OHDA treatment did not differ from controls. Moreover, DA depletion did not alter the proportion of VP neurons whose rate was enhanced with i.v. injections of the D1 agonist SKF38393, and the functional efficacy (Emax) and potency (ED50) were similar to controls. There also was no change in the direction of responses, the Emax or the ED50 measure of sensitivity (ECur50) to iontophoretic application of DA or SKF38393 in VP neurons. Forty-eight hours after 21 once-daily treatments with SCH23390, the number of [3H]SCH23390-labeled D1 receptors was increased in the striatum, but unchanged in the VP, globus pallidus, or septum. Accordingly, there was no functional upregulation of VP responses to i.v. SKF38393. Indeed, the proportion of SKF38393-sensitive neurons was decreased after chronic SCH23390. Distinguishing the VP from other forebrain regions, these findings indicate that basal spiking is not altered in the VP following chronic DA depletion, and that no upregulation of VP DA receptor function occurs following either dopaminergic lesions or chronic antagonism of D1 receptors.

Motor dysfunction in type 5 adenylyl cyclase-null mice

Various neurotransmitters, such as dopamine, stimulate adenylyl cyclase to produce cAMP, which regulates neuronal functions. Genetic disruption of the type 5 adenylyl cyclase isoform led to a major loss of adenylyl cyclase activity in a striatum-specific manner with a small increase in the expression of a few other adenylyl cyclase isoforms. D1 dopaminergic agonist-stimulated adenylyl cyclase activity was attenuated, and this was accompanied by a decrease in the expression of the D1 dopaminergic receptor and G(s)alpha. D2 dopaminergic agonist-mediated inhibition of adenylyl cyclase activity was also blunted. Type 5 adenylyl cyclase-null mice exhibited Parkinsonian-like motor dysfunction, i.e. abnormal coordination and bradykinesia detected by Rotarod and pole test, respectively, and to a lesser extent locomotor impairment was detected by open field tests. Selective D1 or D2 dopaminergic stimulation improved some of these disorders in this mouse model, suggesting the partial compensation of each dopaminergic receptor signal through the stimulation of remnant adenylyl cyclase isoforms. These findings extend our knowledge of the role of an effector enzyme isoform in regulating receptor signaling and neuronal functions and imply that this isoform provides a site of convergence of both D1 and D2 dopaminergic signals and balances various motor functions.

Characterization of the distribution of the cocaine priming threshold and the effect of SCH23390

The cocaine-induced reinstatement (priming) of cocaine self-administration occurs when the cumulative concentration of cocaine reaches a threshold level that we have previously termed the cocaine priming threshold. The present studies used a modified procedure to measure the cocaine priming threshold over 4-8-month periods in individual rats. The values for the priming threshold varied between days but there was no evidence of a systematic change in the priming threshold over time, indicating that neither tolerance nor sensitization occurred. The frequency distribution of the priming threshold was significantly different from a normal distribution but was not significantly different from a log-normal distribution. Therefore, the geometric mean with its associated variance estimates, but not the arithmetic mean, appropriately describe the distribution of the cocaine priming threshold. The estimate of the geometric mean value of the priming threshold for this group of Sprague-Dawley rats was 284 (CI(95): 234-344) microg/kg of cocaine. The log-normal distribution of equieffective doses of cocaine is typical of agonist-induced pharmacological responses. In the presence of the D(1) dopamine receptor-selective antagonist SCH23390, the geometric means of the cocaine priming threshold were significantly increased in a dose-dependent manner, implying a role for D(1) dopamine receptors in the priming response. This technique provides a quantitative method for the measurement of antagonist-induced increases in the cocaine priming threshold.

Receptor crosstalk protein, calcyon, regulates affinity state of dopamine D1 receptors

The recently cloned protein, calcyon, potentiates crosstalk between G(s)-coupled dopamine D1 receptors and heterologous G(q/11)-coupled receptors allowing dopamine D1 receptors to stimulate intracellular Ca(2+) release, in addition to cAMP production. This crosstalk also requires the participating G(q/11)-coupled receptors to be primed by their agonists. We examined the ability of calcyon and priming to regulate the affinity of dopamine D1 receptors for its ligands. Receptor binding assays were performed on HEK293 cell membrane preparations expressing dopamine D1 receptors either alone or in combination with calcyon. Co-expression of dopamine D1 receptor and calcyon affected neither the affinity of this receptor for antagonists nor the affinity of agonist binding to this receptor high and low-affinity states. However, the presence of calcyon dramatically decreased the proportion of the high-affinity dopamine D1 receptor agonist binding sites. This decrease was reversed by carbachol, which primes the receptor crosstalk by stimulating endogenous G(q/11)-coupled muscarinic receptors. Our findings suggest that calcyon regulates the ability of dopamine D1 receptors to achieve the high-affinity state for agonists, in a manner that depends on priming of receptor crosstalk.

Priming threshold: a novel quantitative measure of the reinstatement of cocaine self-administration

The intravenous injection of cocaine has been reported to reliably reinstate (prime) the self-administration of cocaine in animals. We report herein that there is a cocaine priming threshold in rats trained to self-administer cocaine. The cocaine priming threshold is defined as the minimum level of cocaine in the body that will reinstate maintained cocaine self-administration. The mean cocaine priming threshold in rats was calculated to be approximately 186 to 212 microg kg(-1). Therefore, any injection, series of injections or continuous infusion that result in a level of cocaine equivalent to that produced by a single intravenous injection of this range of doses, will reinstate cocaine self-administration. The priming threshold was significantly increased by the D(1) dopamine receptor antagonist SCH23390 (10 microg kg(-1), i.v.), indicating a role for dopaminergic neurotransmission. The priming threshold, but not the inter-injection interval of maintained self-administration, was increased following withdrawal from a 7-day infusion of D-amphetamine. In addition, there was no correlation between the cocaine priming threshold and the inter-injection intervals of maintained cocaine self-administration. Therefore, the mechanisms underlying the reinstatement of cocaine self-administration are distinct from the mechanisms underlying the maintenance of cocaine self-administration and they are differentially regulated. It is possible that the priming threshold may represent a distinct target for medications development.

Biochemical and behavioral effects of boldine and glaucine on dopamine systems

The aporphine alkaloids boldine and glaucine have been reported to show "neuroleptic-like" actions in mice, suggesting that they may act as dopamine antagonists. We have found that in vitro boldine displaces specific striatal [3H]-SCH 23390 binding with IC50 = 0.4 microM and [3H]-raclopride binding with IC50 = 0.5 microM, while the affinities of glaucine at the same sites are an order of magnitude lower. In vivo, however, 40 mg/kg boldine (i.p.) did not modify specific striatal [3H]-raclopride binding and only decreased [3H]-SCH 23390 binding by 25%. On the other hand, 40 mg/kg glaucine (i.p.) displaced both radioligands by about 50%. Behaviors (climbing, sniffing, grooming) elicited in mice by apomorphine (0.75 mg/kg s.c.) were not modified by boldine at doses up to 40 mg/kg (i.p.) but were almost completely abolished by 40 mg/kg glaucine (i.p.). In the apomorphine-induced (0.1 mg/kg s.c.) rat yawning and penile erection model, boldine and glaucine appeared to be similarly effective, inhibiting both behaviors by more than 50% at 40 mg/kg (i.p.). Boldine and glaucine, injected i.p. at doses up to 40 mg/kg, were poor modifiers of dopamine metabolism in mouse and rat striatum. These data suggest that boldine does not display effective central dopaminergic antagonist activities in vivo in spite of its good binding affinity at D1- and D2-like receptors, and that glaucine, although less effective in vitro, does appear to exhibit some antidopaminergic properties in vivo.

Dopamine D1 and D2 receptor selectivities of phenyl-benzazepines in rhesus monkey striata

Several phenyl-benzazepine compounds, putatively selective dopamine D1 receptor agonists, have been used to study the effects of dopamine D1 receptor stimulation in rodents and nonhuman primates. However, the dopamine receptor selectivities of these compounds have not been established in nonhuman primates. Accordingly, the relative selectivities of six phenyl-benzazepines for dopamine D1-like and D2-like receptors were assessed in rhesus monkey and, for comparison, rat striata. The compounds tested had higher affinity for D1 than D2 receptors in both species; however, their selectivity varied by up to three orders of magnitude. GTP (100 microM) reduced agonist binding at the high-affinity state of the dopamine D1 receptor, but the magnitude of the effect of GTP did not reliably predict a compound's efficacy. Furthermore, a history of cocaine self-administration did not appear to influence dopamine receptor binding characteristics in the rhesus monkeys in this study. The present results will aid the comparison of dopamine receptor binding characteristics and behavioral effects of D1 dopamine receptor agonists.

Similar pharmacological properties of 8-OH-DPAT and alnespirone (S 20499) at dopamine receptors: comparison with buspirone

Alnespirone (S 20499) has previously been described as a potential anxiolytic drug that acts by stimulation of 5-HT1A receptors. Some data suggest that alnespirone might also be a weak dopamine D2 receptor agonist: it displays moderate affinity for dopamine D2 receptors in vitro and it inhibits prolactin release and induces yawning in rats. In order to test for possible interactions of alnespirone with dopamine receptors in vivo, we studied the changes of in vivo striatal [3H]SCH 23390 (R(+)-7-chloro-8-hydroxy-3-methyl-1-phenyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-3-benza zepine) and [3H]raclopride binding following the injection of a tracer dose of either tritiated ligand (4 microCi) in mice treated with increasing doses of alnespirone (5, 10, 20 and 40 mg/kg, i.p.) and, in the same animals, the changes in the levels of dopamine, 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) and their metabolites 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid (DOPAC), homovanillic acid (HVA) and 5-hydroxyindolacetic acid (5-HIAA). These changes were compared with those produced by increasing doses of the reference 5-HT1A receptor agonist 8-OH-DPAT (8-hydroxy-2-(di-n-propylamino)tetralin, 0.25, 1 and 4 mg/kg, i.p.) or buspirone (5 and 20 mg/kg, i.p.). Decreased in vivo striatal [3H]SCH 23390 specific binding was observed in mice treated with 5, 10 and 40 mg/kg alnespirone. In contrast, increased in vivo striatal [3H]raclopride specific binding was observed in mice treated with 5 and 20 mg/kg alnespirone. In these animals, the striatal 5-HIAA/5-HT ratio was decreased by 5 to 40 mg/kg alnespirone, whereas the striatal HVA/DA ratio was unaffected at all tested doses of alnespirone. Similarly, 8-OH-DPAT decreased specific in vivo striatal [3H]SCH 23390 binding at 0.25, 1 and 4 mg/kg, and increased in vivo specific striatal [3H]raclopride binding at 1 and 4 mg/kg. In the same animals, all tested doses of 8-OH-DPAT decreased the striatal 5-HIAA/5-HT ratio but did not modify the striatal HVA/dopamine ratio. Buspirone (5 and 20 mg/kg) completely inhibited in vivo specific striatal [3H]raclopride binding and increased the striatal HVA/DA ratio but did not modify the striatal 5-HIAA/5-HT ratio, whereas apomorphine (3 mg/kg) decreased both in vivo specific striatal [3H]SCH 23390 and [3H]raclopride binding as well as the striatal HVA/DA and 5-HIAA/5-HT ratios. Finally, increasing doses of alnespirone or 8-OH-DPAT weakly increased sniffing induced by apomorphine (0.75 mg/kg, s.c.) in mice and decreased grooming induced by the dopamine D1 receptor agonist SK&F 39393 ((+/-)-1-phenyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-(1H)-3-benzazepine-7,8-diol, 1.87 mg/kg, s.c.), whereas buspirone decreased both apomorphine-induced sniffing and SK&F 39393-induced grooming. These results indicate that alnespirone and 8-OH-DPAT have a similar profile and do not seem to interact directly with dopamine receptors. The results also suggest that the stimulation of 5-HT1A receptors by either alnespirone or 8-OH-DPAT modulates the availability of striatal [3H]SCH 23390 and [3H]raclopride binding sites and possibly the functioning of striatal dopamine D1 and D2 receptors in opposite directions.

Involvement of receptor reserve in D1 agonistic action of (-)-stepholidine in lesioned rats

(-)-Stepholidine (SPD) is a natural product. Previous studies had demonstrated that SPD displayed D1 agonism in unilaterally 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA)-lesioned rats and D1 antagonism in reserpinized rats and normal rats. The aim of the present study was to explain this peculiar pharmacological action based on behavioral and biochemical experiments. In the unilaterally 6-OHDA-lesioned rats, SPD (4 mg/kg, s.c.) induced contralateral rotation as did apomorphine (APO), but the rotation response to SPD was 60% lower than that to APO (0.5 mg/kg, i.p.). Coadministration with APO (0.5 mg/kg, i.p.) and SPD (0.5 to 10 mg/kg, s.c.) produced a biphasic action curve. At low doses (0.5 or 1 mg/kg), SPD potentiated APO action; at high doses (4 or 10 mg/kg), however, SPD suppressed APO. In striatal homogenate of the unilaterally lesioned rats, SPD stimulated cyclic AMP (cAMP) formation and produced a maximal response comparable to that of dopamine (DA) in the denervated striatum, but 70% lower than that of DA in the intact striatum. Coadministration of 10 microM DA with various concentrations of SPD yielded different results, with a biphasic response in the intact side and a synergistic effect in the denervated side. Furthermore, based on the determination of receptor-mediated cAMP formation, the D1 receptor reserve was analyzed in both denervated and intact striatum by using the DA receptor inactivator N-ethoxycarbonyl-2-ethoxy-1,2-dihydroquinoline (EEDQ). The results showed that following EEDQ administration, the receptor density [revealed by [3H]R(+)-7-chloro-8-hydroxy-3-methyl-1-phenyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-3-be nzazepine ([3H]SCH-23390) binding] and the agonist-stimulated adenylate cyclase (AC) activity (revealed by cAMP formation) were reduced concurrently. In the intact striatum, the reduction in SPD-stimulated AC activity paralleled the receptor loss, indicating the absence of receptor reserve, while in the denervated striatum the reduction in AC activity was less than the receptor loss, indicating a significant level of receptor reserve (estimated 16.4%). By comparison, receptor reserve for DA was 45.7 and 25.3% in the denervated and intact striatum, respectively, representing an 80% increase of receptor reserve. In conclusion, SPD is a D1 partial agonist, and receptor reserve permits SPD to display its D1 agonistic action in the unilaterally 6-OHDA-lesioned rats.

GTP regulation of (-)-stepholidine binding to R(H) of D1 dopamine receptors in calf striatum

(-)-Stepholidine (SPD) exhibits antagonist effects on normosensitive dopamine (DA) receptors, but it has an agonist action on rotation in unilaterally 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA)-lesioned rats. The present work endeavors to further elucidate the mechanism of its agonist action on D1 receptors. [3H]R(+)-7-chloro-8-hydroxy-3-methyl-1-phenyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-3-be nzazepine ([3H]SCH-23390) and [3H]spiperone were used, respectively, as radioligands in D1 and D2 DA receptor binding assays in calf striatal membranes. Experimental data were analyzed by a non-linear regression computer program, GraphPAD InPlot 3.15. The competition curves were fitted first by a single-site equation and then by a two-site equation. The results showed that both apomorphine (APO) and SPD competitively inhibited [3H]SCH-23390 binding. Their competition curves fitted best to the two-site equation (P < 0.05) with a high-affinity site (R(H)) and a low-affinity site (R(L)) to DA receptors. The K(H) and K(L) values (nM) were 2.7 +/- 0.45 and 378 +/- 62 for APO, and 3.9 +/- 2.2 and 126 +/- 25 for SPD, respectively. In contrast, the competition curve of SCH-23390, a selective D1 DA receptor antagonist, fitted best to a single-site model with a Ki value of 1.7 +/- 0.5 nM. The R(H) of APO or SPD could be decreased by the addition of 450 microM GTP. In the [3H]spiperone binding test, the APO curve was modeled best by the two-site equation, while the SPD curve fitted best to a single-site model. In the rotational behavior test, APO induced 441 +/- 20 turns/30 min in the 6-OHDA-lesioned rats, and SPD induced 310 +/- 42 turns/30 min, while SCH-23390 antagonized the SPD-induced rotation but did not induce rotational behavior. These results suggest that SPD possesses agonist actions on D1 but antagonist effects on D2 DA receptors.

D1 dopamine receptor-deficient mouse: cocaine-induced regulation of immediate-early gene and substance P expression in the striatum

Psychomotor stimulants such as cocaine alter gene expression in neurons of the striatum. Whereas many of these effects are mediated by D1 dopamine receptors, the involvement of other dopamine receptor subtypes or neurotransmitters is likely. To distinguish between these possibilities, regulation by cocaine of immediate-early genes and genes encoding neuropeptides was analysed in mice that lack functional D1 receptors. Gene expression was examined with in situ hybridization histochemistry. In these animals, cocaine failed to induce the immediate-early genes c-fos and zif 268. In contrast, substance P expression was abnormally increased by this drug. These results demonstrate that some of the effects of cocaine on gene regulation are mediated via D1 receptor-dependent mechanisms, as evidenced by the absence of immediate-early gene induction in D1-deficient mice, whereas others also involve additional, non-D1 receptor mechanisms, as shown for substance P expression.

A water-soluble, stable dipeptide NK1 receptor-selective neurokinin receptor antagonist with potent in vivo pharmacological effects: S18523

The potassium salt of a chemically stabilized dipeptide, {1-[4-(1 H-tetrazol-5-yl)butyl]indol-3-yl}carbonyl-Hyp-Nal-N(methyl)-Bzl , (Hyp = (R)-4-hydroxy-L-proline; Nal = 3-L-(beta-naphthyl)-alanine), S18523, is described as a new water-soluble, potent and selective NK1 receptor antagonist. The low molecular weight antagonist (M(r) = 736) displays nanomolar potency (pA2 = 9.6) in the rabbit vena cava (NK1) bioassay and nanomolar affinity (pKi = 9.1) on the human NK1 receptor expressed by lymphoblastoma cells. It is devoid of mu-opiate affinity (Ki > 10(-4) M with respect to tritiated Tyr-DAla-Gly-MePhe-Gly-ol), has negligible calcium-channel affinity (estimated Ki = 2.6 x 10(-5) M, with respect to isradipine) and does not cause peritoneal mast-cell degranulation. S18523 has strong antinociceptive effects in three classical pain tests in vivo both by i.v. and p.o. routes. The dipeptide potently antagonizes bronchoconstriction provoked by exogenous substance P in the guinea-pig and acts longer than the non-peptide antagonist CP99994, when administered as aerosol. Finally, S18523 displays antiinflammatory properties, since it dose-dependently inhibits substance P-induced plasma extravasation both in the bladder (ID50 = 0.18 mg/kg i.v.) and bronchi (ID50 = 0.14 mg/kg i.v.) of the guinea-pig.

Effects of ceruletide on perioral movements and the dopamine receptor-adenylate cyclase system in rats chronically treated with fluphenazine

The effects of repeated administration of ceruletide (100 micrograms/kg/perday, i.p. for 3 days) on perioral movements and the striatal dopamine receptor adenylate cyclase system were examined in rats chronically treated with fluphenazine enanthate (FPZ) (25 mg/kg i.m. every 3 weeks for 30 weeks) and sesame oil-treated (control) rats. After the tenth injection of fluphenazine, the rats started to display five types of perioral movements (teeth chattering, chewing, tongue protrusion, mouth opening and perioral tremors). Moreover, increases in SCH23390 binding and spiperone binding to striatal membranes, were found in the FPZ-treated rats. Furthermore, dopamine receptor-coupled adenylate cyclase activity was potentiated in striatal membranes. High amplitude EMG discharges (8-10 Hz), recorded from the masseter in the FPZ-treated rats occurred concurrently with perioral tremors. Repeated ceruletide (CLT) injections abolished perioral movements, and reversed both the elevated SCH23390 binding and the dopamine stimulated adenylate cyclase (AC) activity to the control level. The effect of CLT on perioral movements, D1 receptors and dopamine-stimulated AC activity continued for 6 days after the final CLT injection. These findings suggest that systemically administered CLT affects the D1 receptor adenylate cyclase system and that an increase of the D1 receptor mechanism may play an important role in the pathogenesis of tardive dyskinesia.

Kinetic evidence for isomerization of the dopamine receptor-raclopride complex

The binding kinetics of the specific dopamine D2 antagonist [3H]raclopride to dopamine D2 receptors in rat neostriatum were studied. The pseudo-first-order rate constants of [3H]raclopride binding with these membranes revealed a hyperbolic dependence upon the antagonist concentration, indicating that the reaction had at least two consecutive and kinetically distinguishable steps. The first step was fast binding equilibrium, characterized by the dissociation constant KA = 12 +/- 3 nM. The following step corresponded to a slow isomerization of the receptor-antagonist complex, characterized by the isomerization equilibrium constant Ki = 0.11. The dissociation constant Kd = 1.3 nM, calculated from these kinetic data, was similar to Kd = 2.4 nM, determined from equilibrium binding isotherm for the radioligand. Implications of the complex reaction mechanism on dopamine D2 receptor assay by [3H]raclopride were discussed.

In vivo binding of [11C]SKF 75670 and [11C]SKF 82957 in rat brain: two dopamine D-1 receptor agonist ligands

The high affinity benzazepine D1 agonists SKF 75670 and SKF 82957 labeled with C-11 were evaluated in vivo in rats as potential radioligands for imaging dopamine D1 receptors with positron emission tomography (PET). Their in vivo pharmacological profile revealed selective binding for both tracers in rat brain regions rich in D1 receptors such as the caudate-putamen. The more lipophilic [11C]SKF 82957 (6-chloro-[11C]SKF 75670) showed a higher brain uptake (more than 2-fold up to 30 min), higher specific uptake in the striatum and higher signal-to-noise ratio (striatum-to-cerebellum = 3.2 +/- 0.4 for [11C]SKF 75670 and 9.7 +/- 2.5 for [11C]SKF 82957 at 60 min post-injection) as compared to [11C]SKF 75670. Both radiotracers exhibited high specificity and selectivity for D1 receptors, since only D1 competitors but not the D2 antagonist sulpiride or the 5-HT2 antagonist ritanserin reduced significantly their binding the striatum with [11C]SKF 75670 or the striatum and olfactory tubercles with [11C]SKF 82957. Previous reports have shown that only D1 agonists can recognize the functional high-affinity state from the low-affinity state of D1 receptors. [11C]SKF 75670 and especially [11C]SKF 82957 are D1 agonist radioligands that can potentially be used to study in vivo the functional high-affinity state of D1 receptors using PET.

Potentiation by 2,2'-pyridylisatogen tosylate of ATP-responses at a recombinant P2Y1 purinoceptor

1. 2,2'-Pyridylisatogen tosylate (PIT) has been reported to be an irreversible antagonist of responses to adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP) at metabotropic purinoceptors (of the P2Y family) in some smooth muscles. When a recombinant P2Y1 purinoceptor (derived from chick brain) is expressed in Xenopus oocytes, ATP and 2-methylthioATP (2-MeSATP) evoke calcium-activated chloride currents (ICl,Ca) in a concentration-dependent manner. The effects of PIT on these agonist responses were examined at this cloned P2Y purinoceptor. 2. PIT (0.1-100 microM) failed to stimulate P2Y1 purinoceptors directly but, over a narrow concentration range (0.1-3 microM), caused a time-dependent potentiation (2-5 fold) of responses to ATP. The potentiation of ATP-responses by PIT was not caused by inhibition of oocyte ecto-ATPase. At high concentrations (3-100 microM), PIT irreversibly inhibited responses to ATP with a IC50 value of 13 +/- 9 microM (pKB = 4.88 +/- 0.22; n = 3). PIT failed to potentiate inward currents evoked by 2-MeSATP and only inhibited the responses to this agonist in an irreversible manner. 3. Known P2 purinoceptor antagonists were tested for their ability to potentiate ATP-responses at the chick P2Y1 purinoceptor. Suramin (IC50 = 230 +/- 80 nM; n = 5) and Reactive blue-2 (IC50 = 580 +/- 130 nM; n = 6) reversibly inhibited but did not potentiate ATP-responses. Coomassie brilliant blue-G (0.1-3 microM) potentiated ATP-responses in three experiments, while higher concentrations (3-100 microM) irreversibly inhibited ATP-responses. The results indicated that potentiation and receptor antagonism were dissociable and not a feature common to all known P2 purinoceptor antagonists. 4. In radioligand binding assays, PIT showed a low affinity (pKi < 5) for a range of membrane receptors, including: alpha 1, alpha 2-adrenoceptors, 5-HT1A, 5-HT1B, 5-HT2, 5-HT3, D1, D2, muscarinic, central benzodiazepine, H1, mu-opioid, dihydropyridine and batrachotoxin receptors. PIT showed some affinity (pKi = 5.3) for an adenosine (A1) receptor. 5. In guinea-pig isolated taenia caeci, PIT (12.5-50 microM) irreversibly antagonized relaxations to ATP (3-1000 microM); PIT also directly relaxed the smooth muscle and histamine was used to restore tone. Relaxations to nicotine (10-100 microM), evoked by stimulating intrinsic NANC nerves of taenia caeci preparations in the presence of hyoscine (0.3 microM) and guanethidine (17 microM), were not affected by PIT (50 microM, for 25-60 min). 6. These experiments indicate that PIT causes an irreversible antagonism of ATP receptors but, for recombinant chick P2Y1 purinoceptors, this effect is preceded by potentiation of ATP agonism. The initial potentiation by PIT (and by Coomassie brilliant blue-G) of ATP-responses raises the possibility of designing a new class of modulatory drugs to enhance purinergic transmission at metabotropic purinoceptors.

In vivo striatal binding of the D1 antagonist SCH 23390 is not modified by changes in dopaminergic transmission

The in vivo striatal binding of [3H]SCH 23390, an antagonist of the D1 dopamine receptors, was investigated in mice submitted to pretreatment to either decrease (gammabutyrolactone 750 mg/kg, i.p.) or, increase (3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine (L-DOPA) 200 mg/kg i.p. plus dexamphetamine 4 mg/kg, s.c.) dopaminergic transmission. Such conditions failed to modify [3H]SCH 23390 binding. However, we observed that dopamine (at concentrations > or = 1 microM), reduced the in vitro binding of [3H]SCH 23390 in membrane fractions. These results suggest that modifications in dopamine neurotransmission do not alter the in vivo quantification of D1 receptors with [3H]SCH 23390, for example, in studies that use positron emission tomography.

Pharmacological properties of 403U76, a new chemical class of 5-hydroxytryptamine- and noradrenaline-reuptake inhibitor

403U76 (5-chloro-[[2-[(dimethylamino)methyl]phenyl]thio]benzene- methanol hydrochloride) is a potent, competitive, inhibitor of 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) and noradenaline reuptake into rat brain synaptosomes. Inhibition of 5-HT uptake in-vivo by 403U76 was demonstrated by potentiation of the behavioural effects of 5-hydroxytryptophan in rats and mice and blockade of p-induced depletion of 5-HT in rats. The firing of 5-HT-ergic dorsal raphe neurons in rats was decreased after intravenous administration of low doses of 403U76 as would be predicted for a 5-HT uptake inhibitor. 403U76 antagonized tetrabenazine-induced sedation, an effect associated with inhibitors of noradrenaline uptake, but not with inhibitors of 5-HT uptake. Thus 403U76 affects noradrenergic as well as 5-HT-ergic neurotransmission in-vivo. Potential anxiolytic activity was indicated by reductions in isolation-induced vocalizations in neonates after 403U76 treatment. Low intravenous doses of 403U76 were well tolerated and had no sustained cardiovascular effects. There were no deleterious behavioural side-effects at active doses. Effects observed on isolated tissues or transmitter receptors occurred only at very high concentrations and were pharmacologically unimportant. Thus 403U76 can be considered a potential antidepressant/anxiolytic agent that is a potent, selective inhibitor of 5-HT and noradrenaline reuptake.

Dopamine-induced reduction in the density of guanine nucleotide-sensitive D1 receptors in human postmortem brain in the absence of apparent D1: D2 interactions

The effects of dopamine and guanine nucleotides on the binding of the D1 dopamine receptor antagonist ligand [3H]SCH 23390 were examined in membranes prepared from putamen, caudate and nucleus accumbens of human postmortem brain. Dopamine induced a concentration-dependent decrease in the apparent maximum number of binding sites (Bmax) in each brain region studied, and displaced binding in a biphasic manner consistent with the presence of both high and low affinity states of the D1 receptor; the GTP analogue Gpp(NH)p transformed this biphasic displacement to a monophasic pattern consistent with a shift of high affinity sites to a low affinity state. However, the selective D2 antagonist eticlopride did not reverse the action of dopamine to decrease Bmax. These data suggest that dopamine decreases Bmax for D1 receptors through a high affinity, guanine nucleotide-sensitive agonist binding site, but fail to reveal D1:D2 interactions at this synaptic level.

Characterization of [3H]clozapine binding sites in rat brain

We examined the characteristics of [3H]clozapine binding sites in four rat brain regions (frontal cortex, limbic area, hippocampus and striatum) in order to elucidate the pharmacological profile of this unique atypical antipsychotic drug. The specific [3H]clozapine binding was found to be saturable and reversible in all these brain regions. Scatchard analysis of the saturation data indicated that the specific binding consisted of high- and low-affinity components. Displacement experiments showed that the muscarinic cholinergic receptor represented about 50% of [3H]clozapine binding in each brain area. Serotonin 5-HT2 and dopamine D4 receptor binding sites could also be detected by displacement experiments using ketanserin and nemonapride, respectively, in frontal cortex and limbic area, but not in hippocampus or striatum. Alpha-1, alpha-2, histamine H1, dopamine D1, D2, or D3 receptor components could not be determined within the high-affinity [3H]clozapine binding sites in any brain region. It is possible that the atypical property of clozapine may depend on the modulatory effect on dopaminergic function via 5-HT2 receptor blockade and/or may be mediated via D4 receptor blockade in the mesocortical and mesolimbic area.

Dopamine receptor blockade increases dopamine D2 receptor and glutamic acid decarboxylase mRNAs in mouse substantia nigra

To study the influence of dopaminergic activity on the expression of dopamine D2 receptors and glutamic acid decarboxylase in substantia nigra, mice were treated daily for several days with an irreversibly acting dopamine D1 and dopamine D2 receptor antagonist N-ethoxycarbonyl-2-ethoxy-1,2-dihydroquinoline (EEDQ) or with a selective irreversible D2 dopamine receptor antagonist fluphenazine-N-mustard. Mice were killed 24 h after the last injection. Dopamine D1 and dopamine D2 receptors were determined by receptor autoradiography, and dopamine D1 and dopamine D2 receptor mRNA and glutamic acid decarboxylase mRNA were determined by in situ hybridization histochemistry. The results showed that treatment with EEDQ, which blocked 80% to 85% of the dopamine D2 and dopamine D1 receptors in substantia nigra, increased the levels of dopamine D2 receptor mRNA in substantia nigra by about 27%. Treatment with fluphenazine-N-mustard, which blocked about 85% of the dopamine D2 receptors in substantia nigra but had no significant effect on dopamine D1 receptors, increased the levels of dopamine D2 receptor mRNA by about 34%. There were no detectable levels of dopamine D1 receptors, increased the levels of dopamine D2 receptor mRNA by about 34%. There were no detectable levels of dopamine D1 receptor mRNA in substantia nigra either in control animals or in animals treated with the dopamine receptor antagonists. Glutamic acid decarboxylase mRNA was expressed in several regions of the mid-brain but only that expressed in substantia nigra was altered by treatment with dopamine receptor antagonists.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

The kinetics of [3H]SCH 23390 dissociation from rat striatal dopamine D1 receptors: effect of dopamine

The present study investigated possible allosteric interactions between dopamine and [3H]SCH 23390 ((R)-(+)-8-chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-3-methyl-5-phenyl-1H-3-benzazepi n-7-ol)- labelled dopamine D1 receptors in rat striatum. As previously described, dopamine prevented [3H]SCH 23390 binding in a mixed competitive/non-competitive manner, causing both a loss of ligand affinity and a decrease in Bmax. The effect of dopamine was largely reversed following pretreatment of the membranes with 100 microM Gpp(NH)p (5'-guanylylimidodiphosphate) and was significantly enhanced by omission of Na+ from the incubation buffer. In dissociation kinetic studies, two methods of initiating ligand dissociation were used: dilution into 100-fold volume excess of buffer or addition of a molar excess of drug. Both methods yielded similar rates of [3H]SCH 23390 dissociation. Inclusion of dopamine in the volume excess of buffer did not alter the k-1 for [3H]SCH 23390 dissociation. However, when 100 microM dopamine was used instead of 1 microM piflutixol to initiate dissociation, a significant slowing of the rate of dissociation of [3H]SCH 23390 occurred. This effect of dopamine on k-1 was Na(+)-dependent since in the absence of Na+ the dopamine-induced rate of dissociation was only slightly slower than control values. Under neither condition did dopamine accelerate the rate of ligand dissociation, indicating that dopamine does not interact allosterically with [3H]SCH 23390 binding sites. These data, therefore, preclude an allosteric mechanism to explain the dopamine-induced decrease in dopamine D1 receptor density and provide direct evidence that dopamine masks ligand binding by binding to a high affinity site which can be modulated by Gpp(NH)p and Na+.

Postmortem stability of monoamines, their metabolites, and receptor binding in rat brain regions

The effects of postmortem delay, time of storage, and freezing, thawing, and refreezing tissue samples were studied in postmortem rat brain using conditions that reflect the handling of postmortem human brain before neurochemical analysis. The levels of monoamines and metabolites in the striatum and cingulate and occipital cortex were measured using alumina extraction and HPLC methods. Binding of raclopride to dopamine D2, SCH-23390 to dopamine D1, ketanserin to serotonin 5-HT2, 8-hydroxy-2-(di-n-propylamino)tetralin to serotonin 5-HT1A, and cholecystokinin (CCK)-8 to CCK-B sites was measured in tissue homogenates from the striatum or fronto-parietal cortex. An 18-h postmortem delay before dissection and storage resulted in region-specific changes in monoamine and metabolite levels. Binding to striatal D1 and frontoparietal cortex CCK-B sites was reduced over the course of a 27-h postmortem delay. Binding to D2 and 5-HT sites was relatively stable. Storage of tissue for up to 8 months also resulted in region-specific changes in monoamine and metabolite levels. No changes in receptor binding were seen after long-term storage. Freezing, thawing, and refreezing tissue samples resulted in increased levels of striatal 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid and decreased binding to striatal D2 sites. These results demonstrate time-, temperature-, and storage-dependent regional differences in the stability of monoamines and their metabolites and in binding to various receptor sites. These differences in stability and binding should be accounted for to interpret accurately the effects of neurological disorders on neurotransmitter dynamics in postmortem human brain tissue.

Effects of ceruletide on the dopamine receptor-adenylate cyclase system in striatum and frontal cortex of rats chronically treated with haloperidol

Chronic treatment of rats with haloperidol decanoate (30 mg/kg and 100 mg/kg IM every 4 weeks for 52 weeks) increased [3H] SCH 23390 binding in striatal membranes by 25% and 50% and in frontal cortical membranes by 56% and 125% in 30 and 100 mg/kg haloperidol treatment groups, respectively. These increases in [3H] SCH 23390 binding to the membranes were restored to control levels after ceruletide treatment (100 micrograms/kg IP twice a day for 5 days). [3H] Spiperone binding to the rat striatal and cortical membranes also increased after chronic haloperidol treatment (by 66% and 99% in striatal membranes and by 27% and 62% in cortical membranes in the 30 and 100 mg/kg haloperidol treatment groups, respectively). Administration of ceruletide to haloperidol-treated rats reduced the increased [3H] spiperone binding to the cortical membranes toward the control level, but ceruletide was not effective in reducing the haloperidol-induced increase of [3H] spiperone binding to the striatal membranes. Activation of adenylate cyclase by dopamine (1 microM or 100 microM) or Gpp(NH)p (1 microM) was reduced in striatal and cortical membranes from haloperidol-treated rats. Ceruletide restored the lowered level of dopamine-stimulated or Gpp(NH)p-stimulated adenylate cyclase activity in the membranes from haloperidol-treated rats to control levels.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Comparative biochemical pharmacology of central nervous system dopamine D1 and D2 receptors

The biochemical properties of central nervous system (CNS) dopamine (DA) D1 and D2 receptors were examined using the specific antagonists [3H]SCH23390 and [3H]raclopride, respectively. There is a different participation of sulfhydryl (-SH) and disulfide (-SS-) groups in the binding site and/or coupling to second messenger systems of D1 and D2 receptors. The ionic studies with [3H]SCH23390 showed slight agonist and antagonist affinity shifts for the D1 receptor. On the other hand, the D2 receptor is very sensitive to cations; even if lithium and sodium influence specific [3H]raclopride binding in a similar manner, there appear to be quantitative differences between these two ions that cannot be explained by surface charge mechanisms. The distribution of D1 and D2 receptors was heterogenous in both species, with the greatest densities in the neostriatum, where the highest concentrations of DA and metabolites were measured. Regions with low endogenous DA content (cerebral cortex and hippocampus) had lower densities of DA receptors. Furthermore, these binding sites were differentially localized within the various regions, and there were substantially more D1 than D2 receptors. The functional significance and heterogeneities in the distribution of D1 and D2 receptors can be related to dopaminergic innervation and turnover.

Presence of dopamine D1 receptors and absence of dopamine D2 receptors in human cerebral meningioma tissue

Preliminary studies have shown that the dopamine D1 receptor is expressed in cerebral meningioma tissue. The current study presents evidence that the iodinated dopamine D1 antagonist [125I]SCH-23982 bound to dopamine binding sites in 33 of the 45 human cerebral meningiomas examined for this. Saturation curves and the linearity of the Scatchard analysis indicate that [125]SCH-23982 binds to a homogeneous population of binding sites. Competition curves reveal the presence of a dopamine D1 receptor by rank order of various dopaminergic and nondopaminergic antagonists ((+)-SCH-23390 greater than (+/-)-SKF-83566 greater than (cis)-flupentixol greater than (+)-butaclamol greater than chlorpromazine greater than 1-sulpiride greater than mianserin greater than (-)-butaclamol). Stereoselectivity was evaluated by (+)- and (-)-butaclamol. The mean (+/- standard deviation) dissociation rate constant was 369 +/- 196 pM with a density of 31.9 +/- 12.5 fmol/mg membrane protein among 33 meningiomas. The dopamine D2 receptor was not present in the 30 meningiomas examined for this. These findings indicate that the dopamine D1 receptor identified is expressed alone and is therefore regulated independent of a D2 receptor in cerebral meningioma tissue. Although the function of the dopamine D1 receptor in cerebral meningiomas has not so far been defined, previous studies have suggested that the D1 receptor might be involved in the control of proliferative growth of meningiomatous tissue.

In Vivo Partial Inactivation of Dopamine D1Receptors Induces Hypersensitivity of Cortical Dopamine-Sensitive Adenylate Cyclase: Permissive Role of ?1-Adrenergic Receptors

As shown by autoradiography, peripheral injections of N-ethoxycarbonyl-2-ethoxy-1,2-dihydroquinoline (EEDQ) induced a dose-dependent decrease of [3H]SCH 23390 and [3H]prazosin high-affinity binding sites in the rat prefrontal cortex. EEDQ showed similar efficacy in inactivating cortical and striatal dopamine (DA) D1 receptors, whereas prazosin-sensitive alpha 1-adrenergic receptors were more sensitive to the action of the alkylating agent, as for all doses of EEDQ tested (from 0.8 to 3 mg/kg, i.p.), the decrease in cortical [3H]SCH 23390 binding was less pronounced than that of [3H]prazosin. The effects of EEDQ on [3H]SCH 23390 binding and DA-sensitive adenylate cyclase activity were then simultaneously compared in individual rats. In the striatum, whatever the dose of EEDQ used, the decrease of DA-sensitive adenylate cyclase activity was always lower than that of D1 binding sites, suggesting the occurrence of a large proportion of spare D1 receptors. In the prefrontal cortex, a significant increase in DA-sensitive adenylate cyclase activity was observed in rats treated with a low dose of EEDQ (0.8 mg/kg), this effect being associated with a slight reduction in [3H]SCH 23390 binding sites (-20%). Parallel decreases in the enzyme activity and D1 binding sites were observed with higher doses. The EEDQ-induced supersensitivity of DA-sensitive adenylate cyclase did not occur in rats in which the decrease in [3H]prazosin binding sites was higher than 35%.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

D1Dopamine Receptor Activation of Multiple Transcription Factor Genes in Rat Striatum

Recent studies have shown that dopamine receptor agonists induce expression of Fos-like immunoreactivity in rat striatal neurons. The protooncogene c-fos belongs to a family of immediate early genes that are rapidly induced in fibroblasts by growth factors. In light of previous findings that several immediate early gene mRNAs that encode proven or putative transcription factors are differentially regulated by neuronal stimulation in vivo, we have examined the effect of dopaminergic agents on mRNA levels of several such genes using in situ hybridization and northern blot analysis. d-Amphetamine (2.5-10 mg/kg i.p.) causes a rapid but transient dose-dependent increase in zif268 and jun-B mRNA levels in striatum that was abolished by striatal 6-hydroxydopamine lesions or by pretreatment with the specific D1 receptor antagonist SCH-23390 but not by specific D2 receptor antagonists. Apomorphine, a dopamine agonist that acts at both D1 and D2 receptors, and SKF-38393, a specific D1 receptor agonist, produce similar mRNA changes in rats pretreated with either 6-hydroxydopamine or reserpine, whereas LY-171,555, a specific D2 receptor agonist, has no effect. Direct dopamine agonist effects on these immediate early gene mRNA levels are also blocked by D1 but not by D2 antagonists. We observed similar, although less robust, changes in c-fos and fos-B mRNA levels. These results demonstrate that striatal D1 dopamine receptors are coupled to activation of multiple transcription factor genes, including zif268 and jun-B as well as members of the fos family.

The effects of chronic ethanol consumption on the mesolimbic and nigrostriatal dopamine systems

Both the mesolimbic dopamine system, which is involved with the rewarding properties of several drugs of abuse, and the nigrostriatal dopamine system, which is involved with motor function, appear to be sensitive to the effects of ethanol. In order to determine which components of the mesolimbic and nigrostriatal dopamine systems are adversely affected by chronic ethanol consumption, we assessed dopamine and DOPAC (3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid) concentration and D1 and D2 receptors in several dopaminergic brain areas. These studies demonstrated that consumption of a 6.6% (v/v) ethanol-containing lipid diet for 1 month affected several components of the mesolimbic dopamine system in 3-month-old Fisher 344 rats and fewer components of the nigrostriatal dopamine system. Specifically, there was a 1.6- to 2.6-fold increase in the concentration of DOPAC in the nucleus accumbens (NA), frontal cortex (FCX), ventral tegmental area (VTA), and substantia nigra (SN). While the increase in DOPAC in the FCX and VTA was paralleled by a similar increase in dopamine, there was a significant deficiency of dopamine in the SN. These results suggest that there is an increase in dopamine turnover in the FCX, VTA, NA, and SN, which is accompanied by increased dopamine synthesis in the former two regions. Studies of dopamine receptors in control and ethanol-fed rats demonstrated a 25% loss of D1 receptors in the NA. No significant differences were found in D1 receptors in the striatum or globus pallidus. In addition, there were no differences in the number of total D2 receptors or in the conversion of the high to low affinity state of D2 receptors in the nucleus accumbens and striatum.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

D1 and D2 receptor modulation in rat striatum and nucleus accumbens after subchronic and chronic haloperidol treatment

The antipsychotic effects of neuroleptic drugs are believed to be achieved by chronic blockade of dopaminergic transmission in the limbic system. Nevertheless, the effects of chronic (3-12 months) haloperidol administration on the dopaminergic transmission in the nucleus accumbens of rodents remains poorly understood. Studies of spontaneous locomotor activity (SLA), a behavioral measure related to limbic dopamine transmission, and of dopamine D2 receptor density in the nucleus accumbens after chronic oral haloperidol treatment have yielded conflicting results. We evaluated these indices after 8 months of parenteral administration of haloperidol decanoate. We report here that, after 8 months of parenteral treatment, SLA stays significantly decreased and D2 receptors in the nucleus accumbens exhibit the same up-regulation as in the striatum (about 50%). These results fail to support the notion of a different pattern of D2 receptor adaptation to neuroleptic treatment between the nucleus accumbens and the striatum. In contrast, dopamine D1 receptors were found to be unaffected in the nucleus accumbens but decreased in the striatum by 22% after 8 months of treatment. This observation could be relevant to the pathogenesis of tardive dyskinesia.

Gpp(NH)p stimulates [3H]raclopride binding to homogenates from human putamen and accumbens

The effects of the stable GTP analogue Gpp(NH)p (5'-guanylyl imido diphosphate) were examined on in vitro [3H]raclopride binding to dopamine D2 receptors in preparations from post mortem human brains. The estimated number of receptors in the brain was 29% and 38% higher in putamen and accumbens, respectively, when determined in the presence of Gpp(NH)p as compared to its absence. The interaction of agonists was biphasic confirming the two affinity state model of the receptor--G-protein complex. The addition of Gpp(NH)p to the assay abolished the two site competition of apomorphine with [3H]raclopride binding in both regions studied. The non-specific binding at high concentrations of apomorphine was not significantly affected by the addition of Gpp(NH)p, indicating that only the specific binding of [3H]raclopride to the dopamine D2 receptor is increased.

Recovery from lateralized neocortical damage: dissociation between amphetamine-induced asymmetry in behavior and striatal dopamine neurotransmission in vivo

It has been hypothesized that neocortical damage is accompanied by secondary changes in other brain areas (the shock or diaschisis of von Monakow), which contributes to initial non-specific behavioral depression. The relation between behavioral changes and dopamine (DA), serotonin (5-HT), and their metabolites, measured with intracerebral microdialysis in freely moving rats and by tissue assay postmortem, was examined during postsurgical recovery from unilateral hemidecortications. Rats were tested for rotational asymmetry and extracellular concentration of DA was measured both during rest and after amphetamine (1.5 mg/kg). It was found that: (1) during the first few postsurgical days the hemidecorticate rats rotated ipsilateral to their lesions after amphetamine but thereafter on tests given up to 121 days postsurgery concentration of DA or its metabolites at any time after surgery; (3) the 5-HT metabolite 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid (5-HIAA) was elevated acutely for a few days following surgery; (4) during the first 3 postoperative days, both baseline extracellular 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid (DOPAC) and amphetamine-induced DA release were significantly elevated bilaterally. These findings demonstrate that the acute behavioral asymmetry in rotation produced by hemidecortication is not related to unilateral changes in striatal DA activity and its metabolites. Thus, the behavioral asymmetries might be related to other striatal changes (i.e. 5-HIAA) or other damage, such as to the corticospinal projections of the lesioned hemisphere. Nevertheless, unilateral lesions did produce acute bilateral increases in DA levels, which may be a correlate of generalized neural shock produced by the lesion.

Agonist and antagonist interactions with D1 dopamine receptors: agonist-induced masking of D1 receptors depends on intrinsic activity

The effects of agonist and antagonist compounds on the equilibrium binding of the D1 antagonist ligand [3H]SCH 23390 were examined in membranes from the striatum of the rat. The antagonist SK&F 83566 interacted with D1 receptors in the manner of a competitive antagonist, causing a decrease in the affinity of the binding of [3H]SCH 23390, without altering the maximum number of binding sites (Bmax). The interaction of agonist compounds with the D1 receptor appeared to be more complex. The drug SK&F 75670, a weak partial agonist, also acted competitively at D1 sites. However, agonists with moderate (SK&F 38393, CY 208-243) or full (dopamine) intrinsic activity to stimulate adenylate cyclase, interacted with D1 binding sites in a mixed competitive/non-competitive manner, causing both a decrease in ligand affinity and a decrease in Bmax. The benzazepine analogue, which also has full agonist activity, SK&F 82958, only caused a reduction in Bmax. Furthermore, there was a positive relationship between the intrinsic activity of agonists and the magnitude of the reductions in Bmax which they induced. In the presence of the GTP analogue, Gpp(NH)p, CY 208-243 no longer caused an apparent reduction in the number of receptors. These data suggests that the apparent loss of D1 receptors, induced by agonists, may result from an interaction with a guanine-nucleotide sensitive, high affinity agonist binding site and that the degree of interaction with this site depends on the intrinsic D1 activity of the agonist.

Autoradiographic identification of D1 dopamine receptors labelled with [3H]dopamine: distribution, regulation and relationship to coupling

On the basis of experiments made on striatal membranes, Leff and Creese [Molec. Pharmac. (1985) 27, 184-192] have proposed that tritiated dopamine binds to a high-affinity agonist state of D1 dopamine receptors (D1h) which adopt this conformation when they are associated with the GTP-binding protein involved in the transduction process. Quantitative autoradiography was thus used to look for the distribution of these D1h sites in the rat brain and to compare it with that of D1 receptors labelled with [3H]7-chloro-8-hydroxy-3-methyl-1-phenyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-3-benz aze pine [( 3H]SCH23390), a D1 antagonist. The effects of unilateral 6-hydroxydopamine lesion of the ascending dopamine pathways on the density of [3H]dopamine D1h and [3H]SCH23390 binding sites in the striatum and the nucleus accumbens were also analysed. In the striatum, when D2 receptors were blocked by spiroperidol (20 nM), [3H]dopamine was found to bind specifically to dopamine receptors of the D1 type. Complementary experiments made with dopamine uptake blockers indicated that high-affinity dopamine uptake sites were not labelled by [3H]dopamine under our experimental conditions. The anatomical distribution of [3H]dopamine D1h binding sites was found to be markedly different from that of [3H]SCH23390 binding sites. This was particularly the case in the substantia nigra, some amygdaloid nuclei and the prefrontal cortex--structures in which the ratios between [3H]SCH23390 and [3H]dopamine binding sites were more than seven-fold higher than that observed in the striatum. [3H]SCH23390 binding was not significantly affected in either the striatum or the nucleus accumbens six weeks after a complete unilateral destruction of ascending dopamine pathways. In contrast, a marked decrease in [3H]dopamine D1h binding sites was found in both structures, but this effect was lower in the medioventral (-60%) than in the laterodorsal (-81%) part of the striatum, even though dopamine denervation was uniform throughout the structure. Preincubation of the sections with dopamine (0.5 microM) led to a partial recovery (+126%) in the lesioned striatum and an increase of [3H]dopamine labelling in the control striatum (+68%). This suggest that the presence of dopamine stabilizes the D1h state of D1 receptors. The absence or low amount of dopamine, either due to dopamine denervation or naturally occurring (prefrontal cortex), would then impair the [3H]dopamine D1h binding. In addition, a lower coupling of D1 receptors with adenylate cyclase was observed in the substantia nigra when compared to that in the striatum: this may explain the relatively weak [3H]dopamine binding in the substantia nigra.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)

Stereospecific effects of ascorbic acid and analogues on D1 and D2 agonist binding

Ascorbic acid inhibited the specific binding of both the D1 agonist, [3H] SKF 38393, and the D2 agonist, [3H] N-0437 at physiologically relevant concentrations. This inhibition was both stereospecific and receptor selective. Using ligand concentrations approximating their KD's, the IC50's for ascorbate and two structural analogues, isoascorbate and D-glucoascorbate, were determined. The rank order of IC50's at both D1 and D2 were D-glucoascorbate greater than isoascorbate greater than ascorbate. However, the IC50 for each compound was greater at D1 than D2. Evaluation of the relationship between the IC50 for ascorbate and the ligand concentration using both the D1 and the D2 ligand yielded data inconsistent with competitive inhibition models. Preliminary experiments were conducted to evaluate the site and type of inhibition with results consistent with an allostearic effect at the level of the receptor.

Effect of unilateral perinatal hypoxic-ischemic brain injury in the rat on dopamine D1 and D2 receptors and uptake sites: a quantitative autoradiographic study

The effect of a unilateral perinatal hypoxic-ischemic brain injury on dopamine D1 and D2 receptors and uptake sites was investigated in rats by using in vitro quantitative binding autoradiography, 2-3 weeks after the insult. We observed significant decreases in the Bmax and KD for [3H]SCH 23390-labeled D1 and in the Bmax for [3H]spiperone-labeled D2 receptors in the lesioned caudate-putamen in rats with moderate brain injury (visible loss in hemispheric volume ipsilateral to the injury) compared with the nonlesioned contralateral caudate-putamen or with control rats. Changes in [3H]SCH 23390 and [3H]spiperone binding predominated in the dorsolateral part of the lesioned caudate-putamen. Pronounced reduction in [3H]SCH 23390 binding was also observed in the substantia nigra pars reticulata on the side of the lesion. In contrast, we did not observe any significant change in Bmax or KD for [3H]mazindol-labeled dopamine uptake sites. Similarly, no significant changes in the levels of dopamine or its metabolites were found on the side of the lesion. The observed reductions in striatal dopamine D1 and D2 receptors are a reflection of striatal cell loss induced by the hypoxic-ischemic injury. The absence of changes in [3H]mazindol binding or dopamine levels in the lesioned caudate-putamen indicates that the dopaminergic presynaptic structures are preserved.

Activation of the 5-HT1C receptor expressed in Xenopus oocytes by the benzazepines SCH 23390 and SKF 38393

1. A cloned 5-HT1C receptor expressed in Xenopus laevis oocytes was used to characterize the action of four dopamine D1-selective benzazepines at the 5-HT1C receptor. Additionally, the apparent binding of the D1-selective benzazepines to 5-HT1C receptors was measured in the choroid plexus of the pig. 2. In voltage-clamped oocytes expressing the cloned 5-HT1C receptor, 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) elicited a characteristic inward current response with an EC50 of 13 nM. SCH 23390 acted as a stereoselective agonist (or partial agonist) with an EC50 of about 550 nM. SKF 38393 (1 microM-1 mM), SKF 77434 (100 microM), and SKF 82958 (100 microM) also acted as agonists (or partial agonists) at the cloned 5-HT1C receptor. SKF 38393 was not stereoselective at the 5-HT1C receptor. 3. The response to SCH 23390 activated slowly and, although the response contained many oscillations characteristic of the activation of the phosphatidylinositol signal transduction system, SCH 23390 rarely elicited the rapid spike-like response seen routinely in response to 5-HT. However, the responses to SKF 38393, SKF 77434, and SKF 82958 were identical in appearance to the response to 5-HT, except that the responses to the benzazepines were smaller. These comparisons were made by applying both a benzazepine and 5-HT to each individual oocyte expressing the cloned 5-HT1C receptor. 4. Consistent with the responses measured in oocytes, SCH 23390 bound stereoselectively to 5-HT1C receptors in the choroid plexus of the pig (Ki = 6.3 nM), and SKF 38393 bound non-stereoselectively with lower affinity (Ki = 2.0-2.2 microM).5. It is concluded that while these benzazepines demonstrate selectivity for the dopamine D1 receptor, they also can act as agonists or partial agonists at the 5-HT1c receptor in situ and as expressed in Xenopus oocytes. The oocyte expression system is useful for studies of the functional pharmacology of these 5-HTic receptors. Information about the pharmacological actions and variations in stereoselectivity among dopamine and 5-HT receptors should be of interest in modelling the interactions of ligands with these G-protein coupled receptors, and in the testing of such models through receptor mutagenesis.

Characterization of [125I]SCH 23982 binding in human brain: comparison with [3H]SCH 23390

We studied binding of [125I]SCH 23982 in two regions of human brain, the caudate and the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex. Binding characteristics of [125I]SCH 23982 and of the non-iodinated tritiated analogue, [3H]SCH 23390, were compared. In caudate, binding of [125I]SCH 23982 was consistent with binding to D1 dopamine receptors while in frontal cortex, [125I]SCH 23982 bound mostly to serotonergic 5HT2 receptors. In contrast to [3H]SCH 23390, no evidence of binding of [125I]SCH 23982 to D1 receptors could be found in human frontal cortex. This indicates that iodination of SCH 23390 induces a decrease in its relative D1 versus 5HT2 selectivity that prohibits the use of [125I]SCH 23982 to label D1 receptors in human cortex.

Lower efficacy of the dopamine D1 agonist, SKF 38393, to stimulate adenylyl cyclase activity in primate than in rodent striatum

The selective D1 agonist, SKF 38393, stimulated adenylyl cyclase by about 40% of basal activity in rat striatum but by only about 10% in the striatum of rhesus monkeys. In contrast, dopamine stimulated striatal adenylyl cyclase in both species with equal efficiency (70-80%). SKF 38393 30 microM inhibited the effect of 30 microM dopamine by about 45% in rat and by about 75% in primate tissue. This difference may be due to a lower D1 receptor reserve in primate than in rodent tissue and suggests that only selective D1 agonists with full efficacy at D1 receptors can be expected to have beneficial effects in patients with Parkinson's disease.

Guanine nucleotide binding proteins and the regulation of cyclic AMP synthesis in NS20Y neuroblastoma cells: role of D1 dopamine and muscarinic receptors

D1 dopamine receptors on NS20Y neuroblastoma cells stimulate adenylate cyclase activity, whereas muscarinic receptors on the same cells negatively regulate adenylate cyclase. To determine the mechanisms which underlie these processes, cyclic AMP accumulation was measured in intact cells following either cholera or pertussis toxin treatment. Pretreatment with pertussis toxin (100 ng/ml), which ribosylated greater than 95% of inhibitory quinine nucleotide binding protein (Gi), caused the complete loss of muscarinic induced inhibition. Conversely, pertussis toxin did not affect the ability of dihydrexidine (1 microM, a full efficacy D1 agonist), PGE1 (100 nM), or forskolin (1 microM, a direct activator) to stimulate cAMP accumulation. Both the dihydrexidine-induced stimulation and the carbachol-induced inhibition of cyclic AMP accumulation were unaffected by either removal of extracellular calcium, or increased intracellular calcium caused by the addition of the calcium ionophore A23187. Cholera toxin dose- and time-dependently induced large accumulations of cAMP. At low cholera toxin concentrations, the effects of dihydrexidine (300 nM) were additive with those of cholera toxin. At cholera toxin concentrations greater than 100 ng/ml, dihydrexidine became ineffective in stimulating further cAMP synthesis. Conversely, forskolin (1 microM) still caused marked increases in cAMP accumulation after all cholera toxin treatments. Dihydrexidine-stimulated cAMP accumulation was additive with forskolin-stimulated cAMP accumulation at low forskolin concentrations (10 nM-3 microM), but synergistic at high concentrations (3-100 microM). Additionally, forskolin was much more potent after cholera toxin treatment, suggesting that an activated stimulatory guanine nucleotide binding protein (Gs) may be required for full activation of adenylate cyclase by forskolin in this cell type.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

The relationship between the occupation of the D-1 dopamine receptor by [3H]piflutixol and the activity of dopamine-sensitive adenylate cyclase in rat striatal membranes

The relationship between occupation of the D-1 dopamine receptor by [3H]piflutixol and inhibition of dopamine-sensitive adenylate cyclase has been studied. Experiments were performed in parallel; after the initial incubation to enable binding of [3H]piflutixol, half the tubes were assayed for [3H]piflutixol binding and the other half assayed for adenylate cyclase activity. The assay conditions for the two halves of the experiments were identical. (+/-)Sulpiride (3 x 10(-5)M) was present in all tubes to mask drug binding to the D-2 receptor. The inhibition of dopamine- (10(-3) and 10(-5)M) sensitive adenylate cyclase with increasing concentrations of [3H]piflutixol in the incubation mixture was compared to the saturation of specific [3H]piflutixol binding with those same concentrations of [3H]piflutixol. There was a linear relationship between receptor occupation by [3H]piflutixol and inhibition of dopamine sensitive adenylate cyclase. In a second experiment dopamine was present during the initial incubation with [3H]piflutixol. This resulted in a displacement of specific [3H]piflutixol binding and, as a consequence, a reduction of [3H]piflutixol's inhibition of dopamine-sensitive adenylate cyclase. In the absence of GTP in the initial incubation dopamine produced a greater reduction of [3H]piflutixol's inhibition of dopamine adenylate cyclase than displacement of specific [3H]piflutixol binding. In the presence of GTP in the initial incubation both displacement curves were shifted to the right, i.e. dopamine was less potent. However, under these conditions dopamine produced less inhibition of [3H]piflutixol's inhibition of dopamine adenylate cyclase than displacement of specific [3H]piflutixol binding. These results are interpreted as resulting from changes in D-1high and D-1low ratios as a result of incubation in the presence or absence of GTP.