High-affinity angiotensin receptors in rat adrenal medulla

Angiotensin II AT2 Receptors Contribute to Regulate the Sympathoadrenal and Hormonal Reaction to Stress Stimuli

Angiotensin II, through AT1 receptor stimulation, mediates multiple cardiovascular, metabolic, and behavioral functions including the response to stressors. Conversely, the function of Angiotensin II AT2 receptors has not been totally clarified. In adult rodents, AT2 receptor distribution is very limited but it is particularly high in the adrenal medulla. Recent results strongly indicate that AT2 receptors contribute to the regulation of the response to stress stimuli. This occurs in association with AT1 receptors, both receptor types reciprocally influencing their expression and therefore their function. AT2 receptors appear to influence the response to many types of stressors and in all components of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis. The molecular mechanisms involved in AT2 receptor activation, the complex interactions with AT1 receptors, and additional factors participating in the control of AT2 receptor regulation and activity in response to stressors are only partially understood. Further research is necessary to close this knowledge gap and to clarify whether AT2 receptor activation may carry the potential of a major translational advance.

The serotonin transporter is required for stress-evoked increases in adrenal catecholamine synthesis and angiotensin II AT(2) receptor expression

High numbers of serotonin transporter (SERT) binding sites and high serotonin (5-HT) content are expressed in the adrenal medulla of wild-type (SERT+/+) mice. Acute restraint stress increases adrenomedullary 5-HT, norepinephrine (NE) and epinephrine (E) release, adrenomedullary tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) mRNA, and angiotensin II AT(2) receptor expression. There are no alterations in adrenal catecholamine content during restraint. In littermate SERT-/- mice, which do not express SERT binding sites, the basal adrenomedullary 5-HT content is significantly reduced and does not increase after stress. The stress-induced increase in plasma E is higher in SERT-/- than in SERT+/+ animals. In SERT-/- mice, the stress-induced increase in expression of TH mRNA does not occur, and as a consequence, adrenal E content decreases, and adrenal E and NE content are lower than that of SERT+/+ mice during restraint. In addition, instead of increased expression, stress induces a profound decrease in the number of adrenomedullary AT(2) receptors in SERT-/- mice. Our results indicate that SERT is necessary for the stress-induced increase in adrenomedullary catecholamine synthesis and AT(2) receptor expression. These data further indicate a close relationship between the adrenomedullary 5-HT and angiotensin II systems, and an important role of adrenomedullary AT(2) receptors in catecholamine synthesis and release during stress.

Angiotensin II AT(1) and AT(2) receptors contribute to maintain basal adrenomedullary norepinephrine synthesis and tyrosine hydroxylase transcription

Angiotensin II (Ang II) AT(1) receptors have been proposed to mediate the Ang II-dependent and the stress-stimulated adrenomedullary catecholamine synthesis and release. However, in this tissue, most of the Ang II receptors are of the AT(2) type. We asked the question whether AT(1) and AT(2) receptors regulate basal catecholamine synthesis. Long-term AT(1) receptor blockade decreased adrenomedullary AT(1) receptor binding, AT(2) receptor binding and AT(2) receptor protein, rat tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) mRNA, norepinephrine (NE) content, Fos-related antigen 2 (Fra-2) protein, phosphorylated cAMP response element binding protein (pCREB), and ERK2. Long-term AT(2) receptor blockade decreased AT(2) receptor binding, TH mRNA, NE content and Fra-2 protein, although not affecting AT(1) receptor binding or receptor protein, pCREB or ERK2. Angiotensin II colocalized with AT(1) and AT(2) receptors in ganglion cell bodies. AT(2) receptors were clearly localized to many, but not all, chromaffin cells. Our data support the hypothesis of an AT(1)/AT(2) receptor cross-talk in the adrenomedullary ganglion cells, and a role for both receptor types on the selective regulation of basal NE, but not epinephrine formation, and in the regulation of basal TH transcription. Whereas AT(1) and AT(2) receptors involve the Fos-related antigen Fra-2, AT(1) receptor transcriptional effects include pCREB and ERK2, indicating common as well as different regulatory mechanisms for each receptor type.

Angiotensin subtype-2 receptor (AT2 ) negatively regulates subtype-1 receptor (AT1 ) in signal transduction pathways in cultured porcine adrenal medullary chromaffin cells

BACKGROUND

Two distinct types of angiotensin II (AngII) receptors, AT1 and AT2, have been cloned. We have shown previously that stimulation of AT2 reduces intracellular cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) levels in cultured porcine chromaffin cells in which AT2 is the predominantly expressed receptor. However, it has not been determined whether AT1 or AT2 affects signal transduction pathways involving mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) and signal transducers and activators of transcription (STATs) in chromaffin cells. Also, it is unclear whether cGMP/protein kinase G (PKG) is involved in the regulation of MAPKs and STATs in these cells.

DESIGN

Chromaffin cells were derived from porcine adrenal medulla. The effects of AngII alone (representing physiological conditions), AngII plus CV-11974 (an AT1 antagonist, which simulates specific AT2 stimulation), AngII plus PD 123319 (an AT2 antagonist, which simulates specific AT1 stimulation), and 8-Br-cGMP (a membrane-permeable cGMP analogue) alone on MAPKs (ERKs, JNK, p-38 MAPK) and STATs (STATs 1, 3 and 5) activity were measured.

METHODS

Phosphorylated MAPKs (extracellular signal-related kinases (ERKs), c-jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) and p38 MAPK) and STATs (STATs 1, 3 and 5) were measured by immunoprecipitation-Western blot analysis (IP-Western blot).

RESULTS

AT1 stimulation markedly increased expression of ERKs, JNK, p38 MAPK via Ca2+-dependent protein kinase C (PKC) isoforms (cPKC), as well as STATs 1, 3 and 5 in cultured porcine chromaffin cells. In contrast, AT2 stimulation markedly decreased the expression of these signaling molecules. Also, 8-Br-cGMP alone induced increases in ERKs, JNK, p38 MAPK, and STATs 1, 3 and 5. Because AT2 inhibits cGMP production, we speculate that AT2 may act to suppress cGMP production, which in turn reduces the activity of both MAPKs and STATs in chromaffin cells.

CONCLUSION

AT2 negatively regulates AT1 in signal transduction pathways in chromaffin cells.

Possible involvement of calcium-calmodulin pathways in the positive chronotropic response to angiotensin II on the canine cardiac sympathetic ganglia

We investigated the ganglionic effects of angiotensin II (Ang II) and the signal transduction involved in the cardiac sympathetic ganglia by the direct administration of agents to the ganglia through the right subclavian artery and monitoring the heart rate as an indicator of the ganglionic function in pithed dogs. Ang II given i.a. caused increases in the heart rate, which was inhibited by the treatment with the AT1-receptor antagonist forasartan, but not by the AT2-receptor antagonist PD-123319. The stimulation by Ang II, but not by acetylcholine, was inhibited after treatment with an inhibitor of phospholipase C, U-73122; a cell-permeant modulator of the Ins(1,4,5)P3 receptors, 2-aminoethoxydiphenyl borate; an intracellular calcium and calcium-associated protein kinase inhibitor, HA-1077; calmodulin (CaM) inhibitor, W-7; Ca2+/CaM-dependent protein kinase II inhibitor, KN-93; a selective protein kinase C inhibitor, calphostin C; and Na+H+ exchange inhibitor, dimethylamiloride. These results suggest that Ang II stimulates the ganglionic transmission at postsynaptic sites via the activation of AT1 receptor coupled to either activation of phospholipase C, phosphoinositide hydrolysis and subsequent increase in intracellular Ca2+ and activation of protein kinase C and Ca2+/CaM kinase II, although this ganglionic stimulation seems to involve, at least in part, the protein kinases-dependent increase of amiloride-sensitive Na+ inflow.

Upregulation of immunoreactive angiotensin II release and angiotensinogen mRNA expression by high-frequency preganglionic stimulation at the canine cardiac sympathetic ganglia

The possible involvement of the local angiotensin system in ganglionic functions was investigated in the canine cardiac sympathetic ganglia. Positive chronotropic responses to preganglionic stellate stimulation at high frequencies, after intravenous administration of pentolinium plus atropine, were inhibited by the nonpeptide angiotensin AT(1) receptor antagonist forasartan or the angiotensin I-converting enzyme inhibitor captopril, whereas the rate increases elicited by the postganglionic stellate stimulation and norepinephrine given intravenously failed to be inhibited by these antagonists. The levels of endogenous immunoreactive angiotensin II, as determined by radioimmunoassay in the incubation medium of the stellate and inferior cervical ganglia, were increased after the high-frequency preganglionic stimulation of the isolated ganglia. The increment of the peptide was also antagonized by the pretreatment with captopril but not by a chymase inhibitor, chymostatin. The expression of angiotensinogen mRNA was observed in the stellate ganglion, adrenal, liver, and lung but not in the ovary and spleen. The expression of the mRNA in the stellate and inferior cervical ganglia increased after high-frequency preganglionic stimulation of the in vivo dogs for a period of 1 hour. These results indicate that an intrinsic angiotensin I-converting enzyme-dependent angiotensin system exists in the cardiac sympathetic ganglia, which is activated by high-frequency preganglionic stimulation.

Distribution and functional significance of angiotensin-II AT1- and AT2-receptor subtypes in the rat adrenal gland

The distribution and the functional significance of angiotensin-II (ANG-II) receptor subtypes, AT1 and AT2, in the rat adrenal gland has been investigated in vitro. Autoradiographic assessment of the selective displacement of [125I]ANG-II binding by selective ligands of the two receptor subtypes indicated that zona glomerulosa (ZG) was provided with both AT1 and AT2, and adrenal medulla (AM) almost exclusively with AT2 receptors. ANG-II (10(-9) M) evoked a marked rise in the secretion of aldosterone by dispersed ZG cells and catecholamines by AM fragments. The selective AT1-receptor antagonist DuP753 blocked aldosterone response to ANG-II, while the selective AT2-receptor antagonist PD123319 was ineffective. Catecholamine response to ANG-II was inhibited by PD123319 and only moderately affected by high concentrations of DuP753. The selective AT2-receptor agonist CGP42112 did not change basal aldosterone release of ZG cells, but concentration-dependently enhanced basal catecholamine release by AM fragments. In light of these findings the conclusion is drawn that in the rat the aldosterone secretagogue effect of ANG-II is exclusively mediated by the AT1 receptors present in the ZG, while the catecholamine secretagogue action preminently involves the activation of AT2 receptor located on medullary chromaffin cells.

Influence of dietary sodium restriction on angiotensin II receptors in rat adrenals

We studied the distribution of angiotensin II (AII) receptors type 1 (AT1) and type 2 (AT2) and the effects of a low sodium intake on these two subtypes of receptors in male rat adrenals. Binding studies on adrenal slices, on cell membranes and on cell suspensions were performed using [125I]AII and specific analogs for AT1 (Losartan) and AT2 (PD 123319) receptors. The distribution of AT1 was also studied by immunofluorescence. Complementary approaches were necessary to reach our goal. Indeed, by autoradiography on adrenal slices, [125I]AII was shown to bind to the zona glomerulosa (ZG) and to the medulla (M). When coincubated with [125I]AII, PD 123319 displaced [125I]AII from the medulla and from the ZG, indicating the presence of AT2 receptors in both zones. Losartan partially displaced [125I]AII from the ZG, indicating the presence of AT1 receptors in that zone. Furthermore, the labeling intensity of the medulla (AT2 receptors) was much stronger in adrenal sections from rats kept on a low sodium regimen than from controls. Immunofluorescence microscopy revealed that AT1 receptors were located mainly in the ZG of control rats. After sodium restriction, AT1 receptors appeared to be uniformly distributed within an enlarged ZG; furthermore AT1 receptor-positive cells were found to a limited degree in the zona fasciculata and possibly in the zona reticularis, and a greater number of these positive cells appeared in these zones under sodium restriction. Cell suspensions from rats fed a low sodium diet showed a 2.7- and 2.1-fold increase in total AII receptors in adrenal ZG and ZFR + M cells when compared with controls. Based on Losartan displacement, we calculated that [125I]AII bound to AT1 and to AT2 receptors was increased in both ZG and ZFR + M cell preparations under sodium restriction. Results of binding studies on cell membranes were also indicative of an increasing effect of sodium restriction on AT1 and AT2 receptors binding capacity. Furthermore, Northern blotting analysis revealed 3.0- and 2.5-fold increases in the level of AT1 receptor mRNA in the ZG and the ZFR + M of rats fed a low sodium diet as compared with those fed a normal diet. The low sodium intake resulted in a weaker increase (1.5-fold) in the level of AT2 receptor messenger RNA in the ZG, with no changes in the ZFR + M preparations. In conclusion, in this study complementary approaches were needed to determine the localization of AT1 and AT2 receptors in the rat adrenal, and to show the increasing effects of a low sodium regimen on the adrenal level of these receptors. Immunofluorescence studies revealed AT1 receptors mainly in the ZG and also in some cells of the inner adrenal cortex zones; in adrenals of rats kept on a low sodium diet the ZG was markedly enlarged, and an increased number of immunoreactive cells with AT1 receptors were observed throughout that zone; also more immunoreactive cells were present in the inner zones of the adrenal cortex. Furthermore in the adrenals of rats kept on a low sodium diet, we observed: 1) an increased number of AT1 and AT2 receptors in cell suspensions from the ZG, and in cell suspensions of the ZFR + M; 2) an increased level of AT1 and AT2 receptor mRNAs in the ZG; 3) an increased level of AT1 receptor mRNA, with no changes in the AT2 mRNA level in the ZFR + M. These results suggest a role for AT1 as well as for AT2 receptors in controlling adrenal function and differentiation under normal as well as under physiological stimulation of AII production following sodium restriction.

Effect of sympathoadrenal blockade on the hyperglycemic action of angiotensin II

The present experiments were designed to investigate the influence of the sympathoadrenal system on the hyperglycemic action of angiotensin II in freely moving rats divided into four experimental groups: (1) sham-operated animals submitted to intravenous administration of angiotensin II (1.9 nmol) which caused a rapid increase in plasma glucose reaching the highest values at 5 min after the injection (26.5% of the initial values; P < 0.01); (2) Sham-operated animals submitted to blockade of sympathetic noradrenergic pathways by treatment with guanethidine (10 mg/100 g body weight), which greatly decreased the baseline value of plasma glucose (85 +/- 5.5 mg% vs 136 +/- 5.1 mg% P < 0.01), and increased the hyperglycemic response to angiotensin II by 96% (P < 0.01); (3) Animals submitted to adrenodemedullation that did not alter the hyperglycemic response to angiotensin II; (4) Adrenodemedullated animals submitted to sympathetic blockade by guanethidine treatment which caused a 40.5% decrease in the hyperglycemic response to angiotensin II (P < 0.05). These data indicate that angiotensin II has a direct hyperglycemic effect in addition to its action on sympathetic nervous system activation and adrenomedullary secretion.

Angiotensin II regulates both adrenocortical and adrenomedullary function in isolated perfused pig adrenals

The effect of angiotensin II (ANG II) on all four zones of the adrenal gland was studied in preparations of isolated perfused porcine adrenals. The experimental design offered the possibility to analyze directly the actions of ANG II while preserving the structure of the gland. ANG II stimulated aldosterone, cortisol, and androstenedione release in a dose-dependent manner. At a final ANG II concentration of 10(-8) M aldosterone increased from 0.7 +/- 0.05 to 3.4 +/- 0.9 ng/ml, cortisol from 50 +/- 5 to 430 +/- 60 micrograms/l, and androstenedione from 1.4 +/- 0.2 to 4.4 +/- 0.8 ng/ml. In addition, ANG II provoked a release of adrenaline from 4.1 +/- 0.6 to 27.5 +/- 0.5 micrograms/ml and of noradrenaline from 5.5 +/- 1.1 to 36.0 +/- 8.7 micrograms/ml. Our results show that secretion of both adrenocortical steroids and adrenomedullary catecholamines can be evoked by ANG II. ANG II seems to influence not only the function of the zona glomerulosa but the function of the entire adrenal gland.

Effect of [1-Sar,8-Thr]-angiotensin II on the hyperglycemic response to hemorrhage in adrenodemedullated and guanethidine-treated rats

The present experiments were designed to further investigate the action of an angiotensin II antagonist on the hyperglycemic response to hemorrhage (1.2 ml/100 g b.wt./2 min). The animals were divided into 3 experimental groups; (1) sham-operated animals submitted to intravenous administration of [1-Sar,8-Thr]-angiotensin II (sarthran), an antagonist of angiotensin II (750 ng/100 g b.wt. as a bolus plus an infusion of 25 ng/100 g b.wt./min over 30 min), which greatly attenuated (51.8% lower than controls; P < 0.01) the hyperglycemic response to hemorrhage; (2) animals submitted to adrenodemedullation which decreased the hyperglycemic response to hemorrhage by 64% (P < 0.01). However, sarthran infusion into adrenodemedullated rats caused a 38.5% further decrease in hyperglycemic response to hemorrhage (P < 0.01); and (3) intact animals submitted to blockade of sympathetic noradrenergic pathways by treatment with guanethidine (10 mg/100 g b.wt.), which greatly decreased the baseline value of plasma glucose (64.1 +/- 3.5 mg% vs. 125.3 +/- 4.5 mg%, P < 0.01), and reduced the hyperglycemic response to hemorrhage by 34% (P < 0.01). Sarthran infusion into guanethidine-treated rats caused a further 34% decrease in hyperglycemic response to hemorrhage (P < 0.01). These data indicate that angiotensin II has a direct hyperglycemic effect in addition to its action on sympathetic nervous system activation and adrenomedullary secretion.

Angiotensin II receptor subtypes and phosphoinositide hydrolysis in rat adrenal medulla

Angiotensin II (ANG) receptor subtypes were characterized by quantitative autoradiography after incubation with the ANG agonist [124I]Sar1-ANG in rat adrenal medulla. ANG receptors are highly localized in adrenal medulla. Specific binding was displaced by 4% and by 95% with the AT, receptor blocker losartan and the AT2 receptor competitor CGP 42112A, respectively. Analysis of competition curves indicated relative binding potencies for the AT2 population of CGP 42112A>PD 123319> PD 123177. ANG stimulated +-nositol phosphate formation in a dose-dependent manner in rat adrenal medulla. Losartan at concentrations of 10(-9) to 10(-5) M antagonized the effect of ANG, whereas PD 123177 or PD 123319 had no antagonistic action. However, at a higher concentration (10(-5) M) PD 123177 or PD 123319 potentiated the effect of ANG on InsP1-accumulation. In the presence of PD 123319 (10(-5) M) ANG dose-response curve was shifted to the left with no change in the maximal effect. This affect was blocked by the addition of losartan (10(-5) M). On the contrary, the addition of CGP 42112A (10(-6) M) inhibited ANG-induced increase in InsP1-accumulation. On the other hand, ANG and CGP 42112A reduced basal cyclic GMP formation, this effect was partially reverted by sodium orthovanadate, a phosphotyrosine phosphatase inhibitor. Our results further demonstrate the presence of two ANG receptor subtypes in adrenal medulla: ANG binding to AT, receptor stimulates inositol phospholipid metabolism, whereas ANG binding to AT2 receptors decreases both inositol phosphate production and cGMP formation.

Role of angiotensin AT1 receptor in the cardiovascular response to footshock

This study assessed the effect of non-peptide angiotensin II receptor subtype antagonists on the cardiovascular response to footshock. Effects of electric stimulation (1, 2 or 5 Hz) on mean arterial pressure (MAP) and heart rate (HR) were determined. Peripheral or central administration of losartan, an angiotensin AT1 receptor antagonist (1 or 10 mg/kg s.c., or at 10, 30 or 100 micrograms/5 microliters i.c.v.), inhibited the mean arterial pressure response but not the heart rate response to footshock. In contrast, the MAP response to exogenous administration of norepinephrine was not inhibited by subcutaneous administration of losartan (10 mg/kg). Given at 100 micrograms/5 microliters i.c.v., the angiotensin AT2-selective receptor antagonist, PD 123319, did not reduce hemodynamic responses to electric stimulation. These results suggest that, in acute stress, endogenous angiotensin II facilitation of noradrenergic transmission is mediated through the angiotensin AT1 receptor.

Interactions between ANG II, sympathetic nervous system, and baroreceptor reflexes in regulation of blood pressure

The renin-angiotensin system plays an important role in the regulation of arterial blood pressure and in the development of some forms of clinical and experimental hypertension. It is an important blood pressure control system in its own right but also interacts extensively with other blood pressure control systems, including the sympathetic nervous system and the baroreceptor reflexes. Angiotensin (ANG) II exerts several actions on the sympathetic nervous system. These include a central action to increase sympathetic outflow, stimulatory effects on sympathetic ganglia and the adrenal medulla, and actions at sympathetic nerve endings that serve to facilitate sympathetic neurotransmission. ANG II also interacts with baroreceptor reflexes. For example, it acts centrally to modulate the baroreflex control of heart rate, and this accounts for its ability to increase blood pressure without causing a reflex bradycardia. The physiological significance of these actions of ANG II is not fully understood. Most evidence indicates that the actions of ANG to enhance sympathetic activity do not contribute significantly to the pressor response to exogenous ANG II. On the other hand, there is considerable evidence that the actions of endogenous ANG II on the sympathetic nervous system enhance the cardiovascular responses elicited by activation of the sympathetic nervous system.

Localization and quantification of angiotensin II (A II) binding sites in the kidney of Xenopus laevis--lack of A II receptors in the adrenal tissue

The distribution and properties of angiotensin binding sites in the kidney of the clawed toad Xenopus laevis were studied using quantitative in vitro autoradiography. Specific binding sites for [125I]-[Val5]-angiotensin II (A II) were located in the glomeruli of the kidney but not in the adrenal tissue. [125I]-[Val5]-A II binding was equilibrated after 45 min. Scatchard and Hill analyses of saturation experiments showed that [125I]-[Val5]-A II binds to a single class of binding sites with a dissociation constant (Kd) of 1.884 +/- 0.535 nM and a maximum binding capacity (Bmax) of 0.484 +/- 0.144 fmol/mm2 (n = 8). Various angiotensin analogues displaced [125I]-[Val5]-A II in the rank order [Sar1, Ile5]-A II greater than human A II greater than [125I]-[Val5]-A II = [Val5]-A II = human A III much greater than human A I. Unrelated peptides did not alter the binding of [125I]-[Val5]-A II. Acclimation to 1.5% seawater increased [125I]-[Val5]-A II binding in glomeruli after 12 hr but returned to control levels after 7 days. Steroidogenic and catecholaminergic actions of [Val5]-A II on the adrenal tissue were examined in vitro and in vivo. Compared with known interrenal stimulators [human ACTH(1-39) and AVT] minimal effects were obtained only in vitro with high doses of [Val5]-A II while catecholamine release was unaffected. In vivo a single injection of 3 nmol [Val5]-A II per 100 g body wt did not change serum levels of corticosterone, aldosterone, epinephrine, norepinephrine, or dopamine.

Angiotensin II binding sites in frog kidney and adrenal

Angiotensin II (AII) binding sites were localized and quantified in kidney and adrenal of the frog Rana temporaria by quantitative in vitro autoradiography. AII binding was present in kidney glomeruli and in interrenal tissue of the outer zone of the adrenal gland. Saturation experiments showed that [125I]-[Val5]AII binds to a single class of binding sites with a dissociation constant (Kd) of 548 +/- 125 pM in glomeruli and 593 +/- 185 pM in interrenal tissue (n = 8). The corresponding maximal binding capacities (Bmax) were 2.48 +/- 0.71 and 3.05 +/- 1.02 fmol/mm2, respectively. AII binding was displaced by unlabeled angiotensin analogues in the rank order: [Sar1]AII greater than human AII greater than [125I]-[Val5]AII = [Val5]AII = human AIII much greater than human AI. The AII binding sites in glomeruli and interrenal tissue suggest an influence of AII on glomerular filtration rate and adrenal steroid secretion to take part in osmomineral regulation of the frog.

Localization of binding sites for atrial natriuretic factor and angiotensin II in the central nervous system of the clawed toad Xenopus laevis

The distribution of binding sites for atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) and angiotensin II (A II) was investigated in the central nervous system (CNS) of the clawed toad Xenopus laevis by means of in vitro autoradiography using [125I]-rat ANF(99-126) or [125I] [Val5] A II and [125I]human A II as labeled ligands. The highest densities of specific ANF-binding were detected in the nucleus habenularis, thalamic regions, hypophyseal pars nervosa and nucleus interpeduncularis. Moderate ANF-binding was found in the bulbus olfactorius, pallium, septum, striatum, lateral forebrain bundle, nucleus infundibularis, hypophyseal pars distalis and tectum. The highest levels of specific A II binding sites were observed in the nucleus praeopticus, nucleus habenularis, hypophyseal pars nervosa and pars distalis, whereas the amygdala contained moderate A II binding. The existence of specific binding sites for ANF and A II in the CNS of Xenopus laevis suggests that both peptides act as neurotransmitters or neuromodulators in the amphibian CNS. The co-localization of dense binding sites for both peptides in the nucleus habenularis, hypophyseal pars nervosa and pars distalis supports the view that ANF and A II have opposite regulatory functions in these regions.

Angiotensin II AT1 receptors in rat superior cervical ganglia: characterization and stimulation of phosphoinositide hydrolysis

Angiotensin II receptor number was higher in superior cervical ganglia of 2-week-old when compared to 8-week-old rats. In both young and adult rats, specific binding of [125I][Sar1]angiotensin II was displaced competitively by the AT1-receptor antagonist DuP 753 but not by the AT2-receptor competitor PD 123177. In ganglia from adult rats, DuP 753 competed with an IC50 of 113 nM. The stable guanine nucleotide GTP gamma S inhibited binding of [125I][Sar1]angiotensin II in young and adult rats by approximately 50% with IC50 values of 105 and 120 nM, respectively, suggesting that the angiotensin receptor is G-protein linked. Angiotensin II at a dose of 1 microM stimulated inositol phosphate formation 58% over control values in superior cervical ganglia from 8-week-old rats. This effect was totally blocked by 10 microM DuP 753 but not by 10 microM PD 123177. Our findings demonstrate that rat superior cervical ganglia contain AT1-type angiotensin receptors that are probably G-protein linked, and their stimulation results in increased inositol phospholipid metabolism.

Angiotensin II increases catecholamine release from bovine adrenal medulla but does not enhance that evoked by K+ depolarization or by carbachol

The effect of angiotensin II on catecholamine release from bovine adrenal medulla has been investigated. In retrogradely perfused, isolated bovine adrenal glands, angiotensin II increased basal efflux of catecholamines, but the presence of angiotensin II did not increase the release of catecholamines evoked either by bolus injections of the secretagogue carbachol or by depolarization with a perfusing solution containing a raised concentration of K+. In chromaffin cells maintained in primary tissue culture, angiotensin II increased 3H release from cells preloaded with [3H]-noradrenaline but did not enhance the release evoked by carbachol or by depolarization with K+. The increase in 3H release evoked by angiotensin II from chromaffin cells in tissue culture was inhibited by its analogue antagonist Sar1,Ala8-angiotensin II (saralasin) and was entirely dependent on the presence of Ca2+ in the experimental medium. These findings suggest that, in the chromaffin cells of the bovine adrenal medulla, angiotensin II acts on specific receptors to cause a calcium-dependent catecholamine release but triggers no additional response that acts synergistically with depolarizing or nicotinic stimuli to augment catecholamine release.

Angiotensin II stimulates the expression of proenkephalin A mRNA in cultured bovine adrenal chromaffin cells

The effects of angiotensin II on the expression of proenkephalin A (ProEnk A) mRNA and enkephalin release were examined in cultured bovine adrenal chromaffin cells. Exposure of chromaffin cells for 24h to 10 nM angiotensin II produced a more than 2-fold increase in cellular ProEnk A mRNA levels with a concomitant elevation in the levels of high molecular weight Met5-enkephalin-Arg6-Gly7-Leu8-like immunoreactivity in the culture medium. These stimulatory effects of angiotensin II on enkephalin release and mRNA expression were fully antagonized by the angiotensin II antagonist [Sar1, Ala8]-angiotensin II. The angiotensin II-induced increase in ProEnk A mRNA levels was also abolished by the RNA synthesis inhibitor actinomycin D. These results indicate that specific angiotensin II receptor activation is responsible for stimulating transcription of ProEnk A mRNA and enkephalin. Angiotensin II may therefore be involved in the long-term regulation of ProEnk A gene expression in the adrenal medulla.

Hypovolaemia can potentiate hypoglycaemic stress-induced adrenaline release in the anaesthetized rat

The interaction between hypoglycaemic stress and hypovolaemic stress in promoting adrenaline secretion from the adrenal medulla has been studied in anaesthetised and conscious rats. In anaesthetized rats, insulin (1 IU/kg, i.v.) markedly increased plasma adrenaline concentrations whereas blood sampling alone did not. The hypoglycaemic response to insulin was greatly reduced if donor blood was used instead of saline to replace the withdrawn blood. The hypoglycaemic response was abolished by captopril or saralasin. The results suggest that adrenaline secretion in response to hypoglycaemic stress in anaesthetized rats is potentiated by hypovolaemic activation of the renin-angiotensin system. In contrast, in fully conscious rats, the response to hypoglycaemia was not abolished by captopril, indicating that in the absence of barbiturate anaesthesia, the hypoglycaemic release of catecholamines is not potentiated by the renin-angiotensin system.

Effects of angiotensin II on cultured, bovine adrenal medullary cells

Primary cultures of bovine adrenal medullary cells have been used to study the effects of angiotensin II on catecholamine secretion and inositol phosphate accumulation. Angiotensin II induced a weak secretion of both adrenaline and noradrenaline, with a threshold of 10-100 pM and a shallow concentration-dependence up to 10 microM. The response was fully dependent on extracellular Ca++, was partially inhibited by 100 nM nifedipine, was completely blocked by [Sar1, Ala8]-angiotensin II (IC50 5-10 nM) and was unaffected by 0.1 mM hexamethonium. Angiotensin II also increased inositol phosphate accumulation over the range 1 pM-10 microM. Inositol trisphosphate levels increased in a biphasic manner after 15 sec and 1 min exposure to 10 nM angiotensin II, but were not significantly increased at 30 sec or 5, 15 or 30 min stimulation. Inositol bisphosphate was significantly increased after 1 min. Inositol monophosphate levels only increased after 1 min stimulation, but continued to rise during 30 min stimulation. Removal of extracellular Ca++ or addition of EGTA reduced basal inositol phosphate accumulation but not the ability of angiotensin II to stimulate inositol phosphate accumulation relative to basal. Nifedipine (100 nM) had no effect on basal or angiotensin II-induced inositol phosphate accumulation. The inositol phosphate response to angiotensin II was abolished by 1 microM [Sar1, Ala8]-angiotensin II. The results suggest that secretion of adrenal medullary catecholamines can be evoked by angiotensin II, at concentrations that are compatible with a role for circulating angiotensin II or for angiotensin II generated locally within the adrenal medulla. They do not support the suggestion that the secretory actions of angiotensin II on chromaffin cells are mediated by mobilization of intracellular Ca++ stores.

Localization of angiotensin II binding sites in the bovine adrenal medulla using a labelled specific antagonist

Angiotensin II binding sites have been localized in sections of bovine adrenal glands and on living cultured bovine adrenal medullary cells using [125I]-[Sar1,Ile8]-angiotensin II and autoradiographic techniques. Binding sites were observed over both adrenaline and noradrenaline chromaffin cells. However, they were present in higher density over adrenaline cells, as determined by the distribution of phenylethanolamine N-methyltransferase mRNA by in situ hybridization histochemistry and of glyoxylic acid-induced fluorescence of noradrenaline. Binding sites were also observed in low density over nerve tracts within the bovine adrenal gland. Living cultured bovine adrenal medullary cells possessed angiotensin II binding sites. Not all cells were labelled. At least 73% of identified dispersed chromaffin cells in these cultures were labelled. Some chromaffin cells were not labelled with the ligand, and at least some non-chromaffin cells in the cultures did possess angiotensin II binding sites. The results provide direct anatomical support for the known ability of angiotensin II to elicit catecholamine secretion from perfused adrenal glands and from cultured adrenal chromaffin cells. They also suggest that some of the effects of angiotensin II on calcium fluxes and second messenger levels measured in cultured adrenal medullary cell preparations may be due to angiotensin II acting on non-chromaffin cells present in these cultures.

Quantitative in vitro autoradiographic characterization of [125I]angiotensin III binding sites in rat adrenal gland

A single class of high-affinity binding sites for [125I]angiotensin III and [125I]angiotensin II were found in rat adrenal medulla and zona glomerulosa by quantitative autoradiography. In the medulla, Kd were 1.46 and 1.16 nM, and Bmax 1700 and 1700 fmol/mg protein, for [125I]angiotensin II and [125I]angiotensin III, respectively. In the zona glomerulosa, Kd were 0.86 and 0.90 nM, and Bmax 790 and 560 fmol/mg protein, for [125I]angiotensin II and [125I]angiotensin III, respectively. Unlabeled angiotensin III and angiotensin II displaced [125I]angiotensin III with similar potency in both adrenal zona glomerulosa and medulla. Our findings suggest that angiotensin III and angiotensin II might share the same binding sites in adrenal gland and support the hypothesis of a role for angiotensin III in the adrenal medulla and zona glomerulosa.

Lack of effect of opioid compounds on angiotensin II responses of bovine adrenal medullary cells

Angiotensin II (10 nM) increased basal adrenaline and noradrenaline secretion from cultured bovine adrenal chromaffin cells by 2.5- to 3-fold and 4- to 6-fold, respectively, and stimulated basal accumulation of inositol phosphates more than 2-fold. Etorphine and diprenorphine in the range 10(-9) to 10(-5) M had no effect on the catecholamine secretion induced by angiotensin II, and, at 10(-8) and 10(-5) M, had no effect on angiotensin II-induced inositol phosphate accumulation. The functions of adrenal medullary opioid receptors remain to be determined.

In vitro binding properties and autoradiographic imaging of 3-iodobenzamide ([125I]-IBZM): a potential imaging ligand for D-2 dopamine receptors in SPECT

The in vitro binding properties of the [125I] labeled benzamide (S(-)-N-[(1-ethyl-2-pyrrolidinyl)-methyl]-2-hydroxy-3-iodo-6-methoxy- benzamide, IBZM) were determined in bovine and mouse caudate membrane homogenates and by autoradiography of mouse brain slices. [125I]-IBZM binding is saturable and reversible with a Bmax of 373 +/- 51 fmol/mg protein and a Kd of 3.1 +/- 0.62 nM (mean +/- SD, Scatchard analyses) and 0.56 nM as calculated by association and dissociation time constants. In competition experiments, Ki values for the D-2 antagonists YM-09151-2 and spiperone are 4 orders of magnitude lower than the Ki value for the D-1 antagonist SCH-23390 and S(-)-IBZM is ten-fold more potent than R(+)-IBZM. [125I]-IBZM has a low affinity for serotonin S-2 and for alpha receptors. Therefore, it is a highly selective ligand for dopamine D-2 receptors. Autoradiographic images of brain sections incubated with [125I]-IBZM show the dopamine D-2 receptors of the striatum, nucleus accumbens and olfactory tubercle with a high ratio of specific to nonspecific binding. Thus, S(-)-IBZM, when labeled with [123I], may be useful for in vivo imaging of dopamine D-2 receptors by single photon emission computerized tomography (SPECT).

Specific angiotensin II binding sites in the rat stellate and superior cervical ganglia

Angiotensin II binding sites were localized and quantified in rat stellate and superior cervical ganglia by quantitative autoradiography using 125I-Sar1-angiotensin II as a ligand. Both ganglia possess a single class of angiotensin II binding sites. High concentrations of binding sites were localized in the areas rich in principal ganglion cells. These binding sites might mediate the facilitatory action of angiotensin II on the ganglionic transmission.

Angiotensin-converting enzyme labeled with [3H]captopril. Tissue localizations and changes in different models of hypertension in the rat

In vitro autoradiography with [3H]captopril was used to localize and quantitate angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) in various tissues in two-kidney, one-clip (2K-1C) hypertension, one-kidney, one-clip (1K-1C) hypertension, desoxycorticosterone acetate (DOCA)-salt hypertension, and a normotensive control group. There were no significant differences in mean systolic blood pressure among the hypertensive groups. Plasma renin activity (PRA) was highest in the 2K-1C group (6.20 +/- 2.17 ng/ml per h), intermediate in the 1K-1C group (2.19 +/- 0.62 ng/ml per h) and control group (3.20 +/- 0.53 ng/ml per h), and lowest in the DOCA-salt group (0.07 +/- 0.06 ng/ml per h). In the lungs, aorta, mesenteric arteries, and adrenal medulla, ACE labeling was highest in the 2K-1C group, intermediate in the 1K-1C and control groups, and lowest in the DOCA-salt group. ACE levels in these tissues correlated positively with PRA. In the kidney, anterior pituitary, testis, and choroid plexus of the brain, ACE levels correlated negatively with PRA, with lowest ACE levels in the 2K-1C group and highest levels in the DOCA-salt group. In the epididymis, posterior pituitary, and other regions of the brain, ACE levels did not differ significantly among the groups.

Angiotensin II increases cytosolic calcium and stimulates catecholamine release in cultured bovine adrenomedullary cells

In bovine adrenomedullary cells in primary culture, angiotensin II (AII) elicited virtually immediate, dose-related increments in cytosolic calcium [( Ca++]i) measured by the Quin 2 technique and stimulated approximately proportional secretion of norepinephrine, epinephrine, and dopamine measured by liquid chromatography with electrochemical detection. Peak responses of [Ca++]i to AII were similar to peak responses to nicotine or KCl. Pre-treatment with verapamil or washing the cells in calcium-free medium attenuated the stimulatory effect of AII on [Ca++]i. Pre-treatment with nicotine, which temporarily inactivates cholinergic receptor-activated calcium channels, did not affect [Ca++]i responses to AII. The results indicate functional effects of AII on cultured chromaffin cells. The mechanism of cellular activation by AII appears to include increases in [Ca++]i due to opening of membrane calcium channels which may be unrelated to cholinergic receptor-operated calcium channels.

Compensatory increase in adrenomedullary angiotensin-converting enzyme activity (kininase II) after unilateral adrenalectomy

Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE, kininase II, dipeptidyl carboxypeptidase, EC 3.4.15.1) was characterized in the adrenal medulla of male Sprague-Dawley rats. Rat adrenal medulla and lung ACE were similar in their susceptibility to Cl- activation and to the inhibition by EDTA, captopril, bacitracin and thiorphan, suggesting that rat adrenal medulla and lung ACE have similar properties. Changes in right adrenal weight and in adrenomedullary ACE activity 5 and 12 days following left unilateral adrenalectomy (UADX) were examined. Compensatory adrenocortical hypertrophy 12 days following UADX was associated with a significant increase in adrenal medullary ACE activity. This change was due not to a modified affinity of ACE for the substrate but to an alteration in ACE maximal velocity or number of available molecules. UADX had no effect on adrenocortical ACE activity. When UADX was combined with right splanchnic denervation, the increase in adrenomedullary ACE activity was blocked. The results support the existence of a functional ACE in adrenal medulla that is under neuronal control.

Quantitative distribution of angiotensin II binding sites in rat brain by autoradiography

Angiotensin II binding sites were localized and quantified in individual brain nuclei from single rats by incubation of tissue sections with 1 nM 125I-[Sar1]-angiotensin II, [3H]-Ultrofilm autoradiography, computerized microdensitometry and comparison with 125I-standards. High angiotensin II binding was present in the circumventricular organs (organon vasculosum laminae terminalis, organon subfornicalis and area postrema), in selected hypothalamic nuclei (nuclei suprachiasmatis, periventricularis and paraventricularis) and in the nucleus tractus olfactorii lateralis, the nucleus preopticus medianus, the dorsal motor nucleus of the vagus and the nucleus tractus solitarii. High affinity (KA from 0.3 to 1.5 X 10(9) M-1) angiotensin II binding sites were demonstrated in the organon subfornicalis, the nucleus tractus solitarii and the area postrema after incubation of consecutive sections from single rat brains with 125I-[Sar1]-angiotensin II in concentrations from 100 pM to 5 nM. These results demonstrate and characterize brain binding sites for angiotensin II of variable high affinity binding both inside and outside the blood-brain barrier.

Atrial natriuretic factor receptors in rat kidney, adrenal gland, and brain: autoradiographic localization and fluid balance dependent changes

Mammalian atria contain natriuretic peptides designated atrial natriuretic factors (ANF). Using in vitro autoradiography with 125I-labeled ANF, we have localized high-affinity (Kd = 150 pM) ANF binding sites to the glomeruli of the kidney, zona glomerulosa of the adrenal gland, and choroid plexus of the brain. The numbers of sites in both kidney and adrenal are increased in rats deprived of water; increases are detectable within 72 hr of water deprivation in the kidney and within 24 hr in the adrenal gland. Receptor numbers decline in rats given 2.0% NaCl as drinking water and in diabetic rats. The discrete localizations and dynamic alterations of these receptors suggest that ANF regulates fluid balance through diverse but coordinated effects on receptors in numerous organs including the kidney, adrenal, and brain.

Somatostatin receptors in the adrenal

Somatostatin receptors have been visualized in the adrenal by autoradiography using the iodinated Tyr3 derivative of the somatostatin octapeptide analog SMS 201-995 (H-D-Phe-Cys-Phe-D-Trp-Lys-Thr-Cys-Thr(ol), Sandostatin*). In the rat adrenal gland somatostatin receptors are not exclusively restricted to the glomerulosa cell layer, but can also be found in the adrenal medulla, particularly after in vitro incubation. The receptor sites in the adrenal are saturable and have affinity constants of 0.42 nM in the adrenal cortical and 0.15 nM in medullary membranes. The distribution of somatostatin receptors in the adrenal visualized in vitro is strongly species specific. Whereas only the adrenal medulla is labelled in the hamster, mouse and rhesus monkey, solely the glomerulosa layer shows somatostatin receptor sites in the cow and the guinea pig. The rat is the only species with a high density of somatostatin receptor sites in both the glomerulosa cell layer and the adrenal medulla.

Quantitative autoradiographic determination of angiotensin-converting enzyme binding in rat pituitary and adrenal glands with 125I-351A, a specific inhibitor

We describe a quantitative autoradiographic technique which allows measurement of angiotensin-I-converting enzyme [ACE] (kininase II, peptidyldipeptide hydrolase, EC 3.4.15.1) levels in discrete areas of pituitary and adrenal glands in individual animals. Tissue sections were incubated with 125I-351A, a specific ACE inhibitor, and results were obtained with computerized densitometry and comparison to 125I standards. There were high levels of ACE in both the anterior and posterior lobes of the pituitary, with no detectable binding in the intermediate lobe. The maximum binding capacity (Bmax) was 920 +/- 62 fmol/mg protein for the anterior pituitary and 1162 +/- 67 fmol/mg protein for posterior pituitary. The binding affinity constant (Ka) was 0.95 +/- 0.11 X 10(9) M-1 and 1.20 +/- 0.19 X 10(9) M-1 for the anterior and posterior lobes, respectively. In the adrenal gland, there were two distinct areas of specific binding, the adrenal medulla and the adrenal capsule-zona glomerulosa area. The Bmax for the adrenal medulla was 652 +/- 80 fmol/mg protein and 294 +/- 53 fmol/mg protein for the adrenal capsule-zona glomerulosa. The Ka for 351A was 1.04 +/- 0.19 X 10(9) M-1 and 1.74 +/- 0.40 X 10(9) M-1 for medulla and adrenal capsule-zona glomerulosa respectively. The results support the existence of local ANG systems active in both the pituitary and adrenal glands.