Tetrahydrobiopterin biosynthesis in the rat brain: heterogeneity of GTP cyclohydrolase I mRNA expression in monoamine-containing neurons

Tetrahydrobiopterin modulates the behavioral neuroinflammatory response to an LPS challenge in mice

Tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) is a necessary cofactor for the synthesis of monoamines from essential amino-acids, phenylalanine, tyrosine and tryptophan. The BH4 synthesis pathway is induced by inflammatory factors but highly regulated processes maintain levels in a physiological range. However, BH4 activity can be durably altered in inflammation-related pathologies, such as certain types of depression, potentially involving impairment of dopaminergic neurotransmission. The purpose of this study was to investigate the response of the brain BH4 pathway to the inflammatory stimulus induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in mice. Brain expression of genes related to BH4 synthesis, levels of BH4, changes in L-aromatic amino acid precursors of monoamines and dopamine levels were determined. As secondary aim, the effect of acute BH4 supply under the inflammatory challenge was tested on these parameters and on the expression of inflammatory cytokines. Mice were also submitted to the sucrose preference test and to the open-field in order to asses hedonic and locomotor responses to LPS, in addition to their modulation by BH4 supply. The LPS challenge resulted in decreased striatal DA levels and increased Phenylalanine/Tyrosine ratio, suggesting reduced BH4 activity. BH4 supply was effective to increase striatal BH4 levels, to restore the LPS-induced decreased in DA levels in striatum and to dampen the LPS-induced expression of inflammatory cytokines. At the behavioral level, BH4 supply was able to restore the loss of locomotor response to amphetamine in the LPS treated mice, suggesting a modulation of the dopaminergic neurotransmission. These data suggest that BH4 can be considered as a potential add-on molecule, helping to maintain or restore dopaminergic neurotransmission in neuroinflammatory conditions..

Tetrahydrobioterin (BH4) Pathway: From Metabolism to Neuropsychiatry

Tetrahydrobipterin (BH4) is a pivotal enzymatic cofactor required for the synthesis of serotonin, dopamine and nitric oxide. BH4 is essential for numerous physiological processes at periphery and central levels, such as vascularization, inflammation, glucose homeostasis, regulation of oxidative stress and neurotransmission. BH4 de novo synthesis involves the sequential activation of three enzymes, the major controlling point being GTP cyclohydrolase I (GCH1). Complementary salvage and recycling pathways ensure that BH4 levels are tightly kept within a physiological range in the body. Even if the way of transport of BH4 and its ability to enter the brain after peripheral administration is still controversial, data showed increased levels in the brain after BH4 treatment. Available evidence shows that GCH1 expression and BH4 synthesis are stimulated by immunological factors, notably pro-inflammatory cytokines. Once produced, BH4 can act as an anti- inflammatory molecule and scavenger of free radicals protecting against oxidative stress. At the same time, BH4 is prone to autoxidation, leading to the release of superoxide radicals contributing to inflammatory processes, and to the production of BH2, an inactive form of BH4, reducing its bioavailability. Alterations in BH4 levels have been documented in many pathological situations, including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease and depression, in which increased oxidative stress, inflammation and alterations in monoaminergic function are described. This review aims at providing an update of the knowledge about metabolism and the role of BH4 in brain function, from preclinical to clinical studies, addressing some therapeutic implications.

Alteration of striatal tetrahydrobiopterin in iron-induced unilateral model of Parkinson's disease

It has been suggested that transition metal ions such as iron can produce an oxidative injuries to nigrostriatal dopaminergic neurons, like Parkinson's disease (PD) and subsequent compensative increase of tetrahydrobiopterin (BH₄) during the disease progression induces the aggravation of dopaminergic neurodegeneration in striatum. It had been established that the direct administration of BH₄ into neuron would induce the neuronal toxicity in vitro. To elucidate a role of BH₄ in pathogenesis in the PD in vivo, we assessed the changes of dopamine (DA) and BH₄ at striatum in unilateral intranigral iron infused PD rat model. The ipsistriatal DA and BH₄ levels were significantly increased at 0.5 to 1 d and were continually depleting during 2 to 7 d after intranigral iron infusion. The turnover rate of BH₄ was higher than that of DA in early phase. However, the expression level of GTP-cyclohydrolase I mRNA in striatum was steadily increased after iron administration. These results suggest that the accumulation of intranigral iron leads to generation of oxidative stress which damage to dopaminergic neurons and causes increased release of BH₄ in the dopaminergic neuron. The degenerating dopaminergic neurons decrease the synthesis and release of both BH4 and DA in vivo that are relevance to the progression of PD. Based on these data, we propose that the increase of BH₄ can deteriorate the disease progression in early phase of PD, and the inhibition of BH4 increase could be a strategy for PD treatment.

Complexity of dopamine metabolism

: Parkinson's disease (PD) coincides with a dramatic loss of dopaminergic neurons within the substantia nigra. A key player in the loss of dopaminergic neurons is oxidative stress. Dopamine (DA) metabolism itself is strongly linked to oxidative stress as its degradation generates reactive oxygen species (ROS) and DA oxidation can lead to endogenous neurotoxins whereas some DA derivatives show antioxidative effects. Therefore, DA metabolism is of special importance for neuronal redox-homeostasis and viability.In this review we highlight different aspects of dopamine metabolism in the context of PD and neurodegeneration. Since most reviews focus only on single aspects of the DA system, we will give a broader overview by looking at DA biosynthesis, sequestration, degradation and oxidation chemistry at the metabolic level, as well as at the transcriptional, translational and posttranslational regulation of all enzymes involved. This is followed by a short overview of cellular models currently used in PD research. Finally, we will address the topic from a medical point of view which directly aims to encounter PD.

The neurobiology of tetrahydrobiopterin biosynthesis: a model for regulation of GTP cyclohydrolase I gene transcription within nigrostriatal dopamine neurons

Within the brain, the reduced pteridine cofactor 6R-L-erythro-5,6,7,8-tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) is absolutely required for the synthesis of the monoamine (MA) neurotransmitters dopamine (DA), norepinephrine, epinephrine (E), and serotonin (5-HT), the novel gaseous neurotransmitter nitric oxide and the production of yet to be identified 1-O-alkylglycerol-derived lipids. GTP cyclohydrolase I (GTPCH) catalyzes the first and limiting step in the BH4 biosynthetic pathway, which is now thought to involve up to eight different proteins supporting six alternate de novo and two alternate salvage pathways. Gene expression analysis across different regions of the human brain shows the abundance of transcripts coding for all eight of these proteins to be highly correlated with each other and to be enriched within human MA neurons. The potential for multiple routes for BH4 synthesis therefore exists within the human brain. GTPCH expression is particularly heterogeneous across different populations of human and rodent MA-containing neurons, with low expression levels and therefore BH4 being a characteristic of nigrostriatal DA (NSDA) neurons. Basic knowledge of how GCH1 gene transcription is controlled within NSDA neurons may explain the distinctive susceptibility of these neurons to human genetic mutations that result in BH4 deficiency. A model for cyclic adenosine monophosphate-dependent GCH1 transcription is described that involves a unique combination of DNA regulatory sequences and transcription factors. This model proposes that low levels of GCH1 transcription within NSDA neurons are driven by their distinctive physiology, suggesting that pharmacological manipulation of GCH1 gene transcription can be used to modify BH4 levels and therefore DA synthesis in the basal ganglia.

GCH1 expression in human cerebellum from healthy individuals is not gender dependent

Dopa-responsive dystonia (DRD) is a familial childhood-onset disease characterized by fluctuating dystonia, associated with tremor and parkinsonism in some patients. In most families the disease displays autosomal dominant inheritance due to mutations in the GTP cyclohydrolase 1 gene (GCH1). Penetrance and symptom severity display strong female predominance for which gender-specific GCH1 expression has been hypothesized. In this study, GCH1 mRNA expression was measured in cerebellar tissue from 66 healthy human subjects (30 women), and in cerebellar and nigral tissue from eight individuals. No significant difference was found between men and women with small effect sizes observed. Although the correlation between cerebellar and nigral GCH1 expression remains to be further examined, this exploratory study does not support gender-specific GCH1 expression being the basis for the skewed gender distribution observed in DRD patients.

Specificity proteins Sp1 and Sp3 interact with the rat GTP cyclohydrolase I proximal promoter to regulate transcription

The role of the proximal promoter GC-box in regulating basal and cAMP-dependent GTP Cyclohydrolase I gene transcription was investigated using a variety of cell lines and techniques. These studies show that the GC-box is composed of a triad of cis-elements that in vitro bind specificity proteins Sp1 and Sp3. Sp1 and Sp3 were found associated with the native proximal promoter in PC12 cells but were not recruited to the promoter during cAMP-dependent transcription. Studies using Drosophila SL2 cells showed that Sp3 occupies two sites within the GC-box and enhances transcription when acting alone and synergistically when combined with nuclear factor-Y (NF-Y) and CCAAT/Enhancer-Binding Protein (C/EBP)beta, cognate binding proteins for the adjacent cAMP response element (CRE) and CCAAT-box cAMP response elements. In contrast, Sp1 bound only one site within the GC-box and did not enhance transcription unless combined with NF-Y and C/EBPbeta. Studies in SL2 cells also showed that Sp1 and Sp3 do not co-occupy the GC-box, and accordingly Sp1 competes for Sp3 binding to repress Sp3-dependent transcription. In PC12 cells, complete mutation of the GC-box reduced basal but not cAMP-dependent transcription, resulting in an overall increase in the cAMP response and demonstrating that formation of this enhanceosome does not require Sp1 or Sp3. Experiments in which the GC-box was replaced with a Gal4 element and the promoter challenged with Gal4 fusion proteins support this conclusion and a role for Sp3 in maintaining high levels of basal transcription in PC12 cells. Equivalent amounts of Sp1 and Sp3 were found associated with the native proximal promoter in PC12 and Rat2 cells, which differ 10-fold in basal transcription. Similar levels of methylation of CpG dinucleotides located within the GC-box were also observed in these two cells lines. These results suggest that Sp1 and Sp3 bound to the GC-box might help to preserve an open chromatin configuration at the proximal promoter in cells which constitutively express low levels of GTP Cyclohydrolase I.

Study of a Swiss dopa-responsive dystonia family with a deletion in GCH1: redefining DYT14 as DYT5

OBJECTIVE

To report the study of a multigenerational Swiss family with dopa-responsive dystonia (DRD).

METHODS

Clinical investigation was made of available family members, including historical and chart reviews. Subject examinations were video recorded. Genetic analysis included a genome-wide linkage study with microsatellite markers (STR), GTP cyclohydrolase I (GCH1) gene sequencing, and dosage analysis.

RESULTS

We evaluated 32 individuals, of whom 6 were clinically diagnosed with DRD, with childhood-onset progressive foot dystonia, later generalizing, followed by parkinsonism in the two older patients. The response to levodopa was very good. Two additional patients had late onset dopa-responsive parkinsonism. Three other subjects had DRD symptoms on historical grounds. We found suggestive linkage to the previously reported DYT14 locus, which excluded GCH1. However, further study with more stringent criteria for disease status attribution showed linkage to a larger region, which included GCH1. No mutation was found in GCH1 by gene sequencing but dosage methods identified a novel heterozygous deletion of exons 3 to 6 of GCH1. The mutation was found in seven subjects. One of the patients with dystonia represented a phenocopy.

CONCLUSIONS

This study rules out the previously reported DYT14 locus as a cause of disease, as a novel multiexonic deletion was identified in GCH1. This work highlights the necessity of an accurate clinical diagnosis in linkage studies as well as the need for appropriate allele frequencies, penetrance, and phenocopy estimates. Comprehensive sequencing and dosage analysis of known genes is recommended prior to genome-wide linkage analysis.

Protein kinase A-dependent recruitment of RNA polymerase II, C/EBP beta and NF-Y to the rat GTP cyclohydrolase I proximal promoter occurs without alterations in histone acetylation

Cyclic-AMP stimulation of GTP cyclohydrolase I (GCH1) gene transcription was investigated in PC12 cells, the protein kinase A-deficient PC12 cell line 126-1B2 and C6 cells using transient transfection assays of proximal promoter reporter constructs and wild type or dominant negative proteins, chromatin immunoprecipitation and real-time quantitative PCR. These studies show that protein kinase A is necessary and sufficient for cAMP-dependent transcription conferred by both the cAMP regulatory element and the adjacent CCAAT-box. In intact cells these cis-elements were shown to bind cAMP response element binding protein, CCAAT-enhancer binding protein beta and nuclear factor-Y, with each protein controlling a different aspect of the cAMP response. Cyclic-AMP acting through protein kinase A stimulated promoter recruitment of CCAAT-enhancer binding protein beta, nuclear factor-Y and RNA polymerase II while depleting the promoter of cyclic-AMP response element binding protein. Stimulation of transcription by cAMP was not associated with increased acetylation of histones H3 and H4 at proximal promoter nucleosomes, indicating that histone acetyltransferases are not involved in this response. Nonetheless, pharmacological inhibition of histone deacetylase activity did increase histone H4 acetylation and the recruitment of RNA polymerase II, indicating that histone acetyltransferases are normally associated with the proximal promoter. Only in C6 cells, however, did inhibition of histone deacetylases stimulate transcription and synergize with cAMP. These experiments provide the first glimpse of the GCH1 gene promoter functioning within intact cells and supply evidence for the involvement of histone acetyltransferase-containing complexes in GCH1 gene transcription.

Co-expression of tyrosine hydroxylase and GTP cyclohydrolase I in arginine vasopressin-synthesizing neurons of the human supraoptic nucleus demonstrated by laser microdissection and real-time PCR

Tyrosine hydroxylase (TH), the first and limiting enzyme for catecholamine synthesis, has been identified immunohistochemically (IHC) in human neurosecretory neurons where it is found to colocalize with vasopressin (AVP) or oxytocin. TH expression shows striking interindividual variability and appears to depend on neuronal activation. Since GTP cyclohydrolase I (GCHI), the first enzyme for tetrahydrobiopterin synthesis, the essential cofactor of TH, and aromatic L-amino acid decarboxylase (AADC) have so far not been detected in neurosecretory neurons, the functional role of TH in catecholamine synthesis is still questionable. Our purpose was to investigate in postmortem hypothalamus whether GCHI and AADC mRNAs are co-expressed with TH in human AVP-synthesizing neurons. Total RNA was extracted from laser microdissected TH-IHC-identified neurons as well as from dissected parts of the dorsolateral supraoptic nucleus (dl-SON) of 12 control subjects, i.e. without known neurological, psychiatric or endocrinological illness. GCHI, AADC and TH mRNA expression was determined by real-time PCR. Our results showed that GCHI mRNA is co-expressed with TH in almost all cases that had a considerable number of TH-immunoreactive (TH-IR) neurosecretory neurons. A positive correlation was found between TH-immunohistochemical intensity and the presence of GCHI mRNA. AADC mRNA expression was detected only in microdissected areas of dl-SON in 2 cases that showed an increased number of TH-IR neurons. The co-expression of GCHI with TH indicates that TH is indeed active in human neurosecretory neurons. The apparent limited expression of AADC indicates that dopamine might be produced in human neurosecretory neurons under activation of the hypothalamoneurohypophyseal system, although the possibility that L-dopa is the final product cannot be excluded.

Immobilization stress causes increases in tetrahydrobiopterin, dopamine, and neuromelanin and oxidative damage in the nigrostriatal system

Oxidative stress is believed to contribute to the pathophysiology of Parkinson's disease, in which nigrostriatal dopaminergic (DA) neurons undergo degeneration. Identification of endogenous molecules that contribute to generation of oxidative stress and vulnerability of these cells is critical in understanding the etiology of this disease. Exposure to tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4), the obligatory cofactor for DA synthesis, was observed previously to cause oxidative damage in DA cells. To demonstrate the physiological relevance of this observation, we investigated whether an overproduction of BH4 and DA might actually occur in vivo, and, if it did, whether this might lead to oxidative damage to the nigrostriatal system. Immobilization stress (IMO) elevated BH4 and DA and their synthesizing enzymes, tyrosine hydroxylase and GTP cyclohydrolase I. This was accompanied by elevation of lipid peroxidation and protein-bound quinone, and activities of antioxidant enzymes. These increases in the indices of oxidative stress appeared to be due to increased BH4 synthesis because they were abolished following administration of the BH4 synthesis inhibitor, 2,4-diamino-6-hydroxy-pyrimidine. IMO also caused accumulation of neuromelanin and degeneration of the nigrostriatal system. These results demonstrate that a severe stress can increase BH4 and DA and cause oxidative damages to the DA neurons in vivo, suggesting relevance to Parkinson's disease.

Somatodendritic autoreceptor regulation of serotonergic neurons: dependence on L-tryptophan and tryptophan hydroxylase-activating kinases

The somatodendritic 5-HT(1A) autoreceptor has been considered a major determinant of the output of the serotonin (5-HT) neuronal system. However, recent studies in brain slices from the dorsal raphe nucleus have questioned the relevance of 5-HT autoinhibition under physiological conditions. In the present study, we found that the difficulty in demonstrating 5-HT tonic autoinhibition in slice results from in vitro conditions that are unfavorable for sustaining 5-HT synthesis. Robust, tonic 5-HT(1A) autoinhibition can be restored by reinstating in vivo 5-HT synthesizing conditions with the initial 5-HT precursor l-tryptophan and the tryptophan hydroxylase co-factor tetrahydrobiopterin (BH(4)). The presence of tonic autoinhibition under these conditions was revealed by the disinhibitory effect of a low concentration of the 5-HT(1A) antagonist WAY 100635. Neurons showing an autoinhibitory response to L-tryptophan were confirmed immunohistochemically to be serotonergic. Once conditions for tonic autoinhibition had been established in raphe slice, we were able to show that 5-HT autoinhibition is critically regulated by the tryptophan hydroxylase-activating kinases calcium/calmodulin protein kinase II (CaMKII) and protein kinase A (PKA). In addition, at physiological concentrations of L-tryptophan, there was an augmentation of 5-HT(1A) receptor-mediated autoinhibition when the firing of 5-HT cells activated with increasing concentrations of the alpha(1) adrenoceptor agonist phenylephrine. Increased calcium influx at higher firing rates, by activating tryptophan hydroxylase via CaMKII and PKA, can work together with tryptophan to enhance negative feedback control of the output of the serotonergic system.

Utilization of exogenous tetrahydrobiopterin in nitric oxide synthesis in human neuroblastoma cell line

We and others have previously reported that neurons expressing neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) do not co-express GTP cyclohydrolase I, the enzyme that synthesize its cofactor tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4). BH4 is released from catecholaminergic cells and nNOS-expressing cells are located close to BH4-producing catecholaminergic nerve terminals. We show that BH4 is taken up into the nNOS-expressing human neuroblastoma cells TGW-I-nu in a linear, dose-dependent manner and elevates NO production. Direct exposure to BH4, dihydrobiopterin or biopterin, or coculture with catecholaminergic CATH.a cells increases NO production by TGW-I-nu. Thus, BH4-requiring nNOS cells may obtain BH4 from neighboring catecholaminergic cells or terminals and an intercellular crosstalk may exist between the two cells in vivo.

Tyrosine hydroxylase mRNA and protein are down-regulated by chronic clozapine in both the mesocorticolimbic and the nigrostriatal systems

The dopaminergic system is one of the most important targets for pharmacological treatment of schizophrenia. Despite substantial work on mechanisms of action, it is not clear which dopaminergic pathways mediate the therapeutic effects of antipsychotic drugs. It has been shown that chronic clozapine, an atypical antipsychotic, decreases dopamine levels in the mesocorticolimbic system but not in the nigrostriatal system. Because tyrosine hydroxylase is the rate-limiting enzyme in the biosynthesis of dopamine, we studied the effect of chronic clozapine in both dopaminergic systems. We demonstrated a decrease of tyrosine hydroxylase mRNA not only in the ventral tegmental area but also in the substantia nigra, the cell body areas of the mesocorticolimbic and the nigrostriatal systems, respectively. The reduced tyrosine hydroxylase mRNA level in these areas is accompanied by an ample reduction in the tyrosine hydroxylase protein level in their corresponding axonal terminal fields, the nucleus accumbens and the striatum. There was thus discordance between the clozapine-induced decrease of tyrosine hydroxylase mRNA and protein and the absence of an effect on dopamine levels in the nigrostriatal system. It has been suggested that reduced levels of dopamine in the mesocorticolimbic system are required for the antipsychotic effect of the drug. Therefore, the modulation of tyrosine hydroxylase gene expression by clozapine in the mesocorticolimbic system might be necessary for its antipsychotic effect; this effect might be of relevance when considering new atypical agents.

Intravenous nonviral gene therapy causes normalization of striatal tyrosine hydroxylase and reversal of motor impairment in experimental parkinsonism

Brain gene-targeting technology is used to reversibly normalize tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) activity in the striatum of adult rats, using the experimental 6-hydroxydopamine model of Parkinson's disease. The TH expression plasmid is encapsulated inside an 85-nm PEGylated immunoliposome (PIL) that is targeted with either the OX26 murine monoclonal antibody (MAb) to the rat transferrin receptor (TfR) or with the mouse IgG2a isotype control antibody. TfRMAb-PIL, or mIgG2a-PIL, is injected intravenously at a dose of 10 microg of plasmid DNA per rat. TfRMAb-PIL, but not mIgG2a-PIL, enters the brain via the transvascular route. The targeting TfRMAb enables the nanocontainer carrying the gene to undergo both receptor-mediated transcytosis across the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and receptor-mediated endocytosis into neurons behind the BBB by accessing the TfR. With this approach, the striatal TH activity ipsilateral to the intracerebral injection of the neurotoxin was normalized and increased from 738 +/- 179 to 5486 +/- 899 pmol/hr per milligram of protein. The TH enzyme activity measurements were corroborated by TH immunocytochemistry, which showed that the entire striatum was immunoreactive for TH after intravenous gene therapy. The normalization of striatal biochemistry was associated with a reversal of apomorphine-induced rotation behavior. Lesioned animals treated with the apomorphine exhibited 20 +/- 5 and 6 +/- 2 rotations/min, respectively, after intravenous administration of the TH plasmid encapsulated in mIgG2a-PIL and TfRMAb-PIL. These studies demonstrate that it is possible to normalize brain enzyme activity by intravenous administration and nonviral gene transfer.

Localization of sepiapterin reductase in the human brain

Sepiapterin reductase (SPR) is the enzyme that catalyzes the final step of the synthesis of tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4), the cofactor for phenylalanine hydroxylase, tyrosine hydroxylase (TH), tryptophan hydroxylase, and nitric oxide synthase (NOS). Although SPR is essential for synthesizing BH4, the distribution of SPR in the human brain has not yet been clarified. In the present study, we purified recombinant human SPR from cDNA, raised an antibody against human SPR (hSPR), and examined the localization of SPR protein and SPR activity. Human brain homogenates from the substantia nigra (SN), caudate nucleus (CN), gray and white matters of the cerebral cortex (CTX), and dorsal and ventral parts of the medulla oblongata (MO) were subjected to Western blot analysis with anti-hSPR antibody or with anti-TH antibody. Whereas TH protein showed a restricted localization, being mainly detected in the SN and CN, SPR protein was detected in all brain regions examined. SPR activity was relatively high compared with the activity of GTP cyclohydrolase I (GCH), the rate-limiting biosynthetic enzyme of BH4, and was more widely distributed than GCH activity. Immunohistochemistry revealed SPR immunoreactivity in pyramidal neurons in the cerebral CTX, in a small number of striatal neurons, and in neurons of the hypothalamic and brain stem monoaminergic fields and olivary nucleus. Double-staining immunohistochemistry showed that TH and SPR were colocalized in the SN dopamine neurons. Localization of SPR immunoreactive neurons corresponded to monoamine or NOS neuronal fields, and also to the areas where no monoamine or NOS neurons were located. The results indicate that there might be a BH4 biosynthetic pathway where GCH is not involved and that SPR might have some yet unidentified function(s) in addition to BH4 biosynthesis.

GTP cyclohydrolase I induction in striatal astrocytes following intrastriatal kainic acid lesion

The cause of premature death of dopamine neurons in patients with Parkinson's disease remains unknown. It is speculated that damaging reactive species resulting from the metabolism of dopamine, nitric oxide, and tetrahydrobiopterin (BH(4)) may be involved. GTP cyclohydrolase I (GCH1) is the first and rate-limiting enzyme in the synthesis of BH(4), an essential cofactor for tyrosine hydroxylase and nitric oxide synthase in dopamine and nitric oxide production, respectively. Our studies have explored BH(4) metabolism in the nigrostriatal system following intrastriatal kainic acid lesion. We have demonstrated that 1 week following kainic acid there was an increase in striatal GCH1 mRNA, protein, and activity. There was also an elevation of BH(4) levels in the striatum. Part of the induction of GCH1 was localized in situ to astrocytes. Further, the striatal lesion caused death of both neurons and astrocytes in striatum, as shown by in situ end labeling. These novel observations suggest that the induction of GTP cyclohydrolase and BH(4) in striatal astrocytes may be mediating death of striatal neuronal and non-neuronal cells. This work supports existing and emerging reports that demonstrate the importance of dopamine metabolism in neuronal death of the nigrostriatal system.

Pteridines and affective disorders

The pteridine tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) is an essential cofactor in the biosynthesis of dopamine, (nor)epinephrine, serotonin and nitric oxide (NO). Furthermore, BH4 has a direct influence on release mechanisms of these neurotransmitters and on serotonin receptor binding activity immunology. The synthesis of BH4 is stimulated by interferon-gamma and hence there is a close relationship with the immune system HPA-axis. In animal experiments it was also found that the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis influences the pteridine metabolism. In clinical studies, so far, no evidence has been found for this relationship diseases. A congenital biopterin deficiency results in atypical phenylketonuria with severe neuropsychiatric symptoms. In several neurological diseases, such as Parkinson's disease, decreased levels of BH4 are found depression. Since 1984 there have been reports on decreased biopterin and increased neopterin levels in urine and plasma of depressed patients. Conflicting results have also been found, however, due probably to methodological problems therapy. Until now, oral administration of BH4 to depressed patients has been performed by two investigators, which resulted in mainly temporal clinical improvement discussion. Understanding of biochemical mechanisms in which pteridines are involved may contribute to our knowledge of the pathogenesis and treatment of affective disorders. This paper aims to provide an overview of the relevant literature and warrant for further research on this intriguing compound.

Characterization of GTP cyclohydrolase I gene expression in the human neuroblastoma SKN-BE(2)M17: enhanced transcription in response to cAMP is conferred by the proximal promoter

GTP cyclohydrolase I (GTPCH) gene expression was investigated in the human monoamine-containing neuroblastoma cell line SK-N-BE(2)M17. Northern blot analysis revealed a single GTPCH mRNA transcript that was confirmed by RNase protection assay to encode for Type 1 GTPCH; no alternatively spliced forms of GTPCH mRNA were detected with this assay. Incubation with 8Br-cAMP, but not nerve growth factor or leukemia inhibitory factor, produced a rapid increase in GTPCH mRNA and protein levels; protein levels remained elevated during the entire treatment period while mRNA content declined rapidly between 10 and 24 h. Treatment with 8Br-cAMP did not significantly modify the stability of GTPCH mRNA but did increase GTPCH transcription as determined by transient transfection assays of a luciferase reporter construct containing 1171 bp of human GTPCH 5'-flanking sequence. Cis-acting elements required for maximal basal and cAMP-dependent transcription were localized by deletion analysis to the 146 bp proximal promoter. DNase I footprint analysis of the proximal promoter using SK-N-BE(2)M17 nuclear extracts identified two protein binding domains: one an upstream Sp1-like site and the other a combined CRE-Sp1-CCAAT-box element. EMSA and supershift assays demonstrated that the combined CRE-Sp1-CCAAT-box element recruits ATF-2 and NF-Y but not Sp1-4 or Egr-1-3. NF-Y binding was confirmed using pure recombinant human NF-Y protein. Transcription of the human GTPCH gene in human SK-N-BE(2)M17 cells is thus enhanced by cAMP acting through regulatory elements located in the proximal promoter and may involve the transcription factors NF-Y and ATF-2.

Tetrahydrobiopterin scavenges superoxide in dopaminergic neurons

Increased oxidative stresses are implicated in the pathogenesis of Parkinson's disease, and dopaminergic neurons may be intrinsically susceptible to oxidative damage. However, the selective presence of tetrahydrobiopterin (BH(4)) makes dopaminergic neurons more resistant to oxidative stress caused by glutathione depletion. To further investigate the mechanisms of BH(4) protection, we examined the effects of BH(4) on superoxide levels in individual living mesencephalic neurons. Dopaminergic neurons have intrinsically lower levels of superoxide than nondopaminergic neurons. In addition, inhibiting BH(4) synthesis increased superoxide in dopaminergic neurons, while BH(4) supplementation decreased superoxide in nondopaminergic cells. BH(4) is also a cofactor in catecholamine and NO production. In order to exclude the possibility that the antioxidant effects of BH(4) are mediated by dopamine and NO, we used fibroblasts in which neither catecholamine nor NO production occurs. In fibroblasts, BH(4) decreased baseline reactive oxygen species, and attenuated reactive oxygen species increase by rotenone and antimycin A. Physiologic concentrations of BH(4) directly scavenged superoxide generated by potassium superoxide in vitro. We hypothesize that BH(4) protects dopaminergic neurons from ordinary oxidative stresses generated by dopamine and its metabolites and that environmental insults or genetic defects may disrupt this intrinsic capacity of dopaminergic neurons and contribute to their degeneration in Parkinson's disease.

Identification and characterization of basal and cyclic AMP response elements in the promoter of the rat GTP cyclohydrolase I gene

5812 base pairs of rat GTP cyclohydrolase I (GTPCH) 5'-flanking region were cloned and sequenced, and the transcription start site was determined for the gene in rat liver. Progressive deletion analysis using transient transfection assays of luciferase reporter constructs defined the core promoter as a highly conserved 142-base pair GC-rich sequence upstream from the cap site. DNase I footprint analysis of this region revealed (5' --> 3') a Sp1/GC box, a noncanonical cAMP-response element (CRE), a CCAAT-box, and an E-box. Transcription from the core promoter in PC12 but not C6 or Rat2 cells was enhanced by incubation with 8-bromo-cyclic AMP. Mutagenesis showed that both the CRE and CCAAT-box independently contribute to basal and cAMP-dependent activity. The combined CRE and CCAAT-box cassette was also found to enhance basal transcription and confer cAMP sensitivity on a heterologous minimal promoter. The addition of the Sp1/GC box sequence to this minimal promoter construct inhibited basal transcription without affecting the cAMP response. EMSA showed that nuclear proteins from PC12 but not C6 or Rat2 cells bind the CRE as a complex containing activating transcription factor (ATF)-4 and CCAAT enhancer-binding protein beta, while both PC12 and C6 cell nuclear extracts were recruited by the CCAAT-box as a complex containing nuclear factor Y. Overexpression of ATF-4 in PC12 cells was found to transactivate the GTPCH promoter response to cAMP. These studies suggest that the elements required for cell type-specific cAMP-dependent enhancement of gene transcription are located along the GTPCH core promoter and include the CRE and adjacent CCAAT-box and the proteins ATF-4, CCAAT enhancer-binding protein beta, and nuclear factor Y.

Pterin-4alpha-carbinolamine dehydratase in rat brain. I. Patterns of co-localization with tyrosine hydroxylase

The bifunctional protein, PCD/DCoH, is both a pterin-4alpha-carbinolamine dehydratase (PCD) and a dimerization cofactor of the hepatic nuclear factor 1alpha (DCoH). In association with brain tyrosine hydroxylase (TH), which is required for dopamine synthesis, PCD catalyses dehydration and thus recycling of the cofactor tetrahydrobiopterin (BH(4)). PCD immunoreactivity in the catecholaminergic system of the rat brain was studied using a rabbit polyclonal antibody. Double immunofluorescence was performed to establish intracellular co-localization with TH. PCD immunoreactivity was found to be high and consistently present in all the neuron groups expressing TH. More than 90% of the TH+ cells were also expressing PCD. The highest co-expression (99-100% of TH+ cells) was observed in pontine catecholaminergic cell groups including locus coeruleus. Lower co-expression was observed in substantia nigra (17% of TH+ cells without PCD) and particularly in arcuate nucleus (41% of TH+ cells without PCD). Our results argue in favor of a generalized recycling of BH(4) in catecholaminergic neurons except when the neuron terminal field is located outside the blood-brain barrier. The respective roles of synthesis and recycling of BH(4) in the control of TH activity are discussed.

Catecholamine biosynthesis and physiological regulation in neuroendocrine cells

The catecholamines are widely distributed in mammals and their levels and physiological functions are regulated at many sites. These include their release from neuroendocrine cells, the type and sensitivity of the multiple receptors in target cells, the efficacy of the reuptake system in the secretory cells, and the rates of catecholamine biosynthesis and degradation. In the present review the main focus will be on the more recent studies on the biosynthesis in neuroendocrine cells which involves a specific set of enzymes, with special reference to physiologically important regulatory mechanisms. Eight enzymes of the biosynthetic pathway have now been identified, cloned, expressed as recombinant proteins, characterized with respect to catalytic and regulatory properties, and some of them also crystallized. The identification of the tyrosine hydroxylase catalysed reaction as the rate-limiting step in the normal catecholamine biosynthesis has attracted most attention, both in terms of transcriptional and post-translational regulation. In certain human genetic disorders of catecholamine biosynthesis other enzymes in the pathway may become rate-limiting, notably those involved in the biosynthesis/regeneration of the natural co-factor tetrahydrobiopterin in the tyrosine hydroxylase reaction. The enzymes involved seem to be regulated by a variety of physiological factors, both on a long-term scale and a short-term basis, and include the relative rates of synthesis, degradation and state of activation of the biosynthetic enzymes, notably of tyrosine hydroxylase. Multiple surface receptors and signalling pathways are activated in response to extracellular stimuli and play an essential role in the regulation of catecholamine biosynthesis.

Progress in direct striatal delivery of L-dopa via gene therapy for treatment of Parkinson's disease using recombinant adeno-associated viral vectors

Viral vectors have recently been used successfully to transfer genes and express different proteins in the brain. This review discusses the requirements to consider human clinical trials in which recombinant adeno-associated virus vectors are used to transfer the genes necessary to produce l-dihydroxyphenylalanine (l-dopa) directly into the striatum of Parkinson's patients. Preclinical data that apply to the criteria defined as prerequisite for clinical trials are discussed. Thus, in animal models using recombinant adeno-associated virus vectors it has been demonstrated that l-dopa can be synthesized in the striatum after in vivo transduction. In addition, these l-dopa levels are sufficient to affect behavior in a dopamine-deficient animal model, the expression is extremely long-lasting, and the ability to transcriptionally regulate tyrosine hydroxylase has been demonstrated but not fully characterized. However, while immune responses to recombinant adeno-associated virus infection in the periphery have been studied, direct assessment of the potential immune response in the brain has not been sufficiently defined. Therefore, the rationale for delivering l-dopa directly to the striatum to treat Parkinson's disease is sound and the preclinical data are promising but all the issues surrounding this strategy are not resolved.

Tyrosine hydroxylase binds tetrahydrobiopterin cofactor with negative cooperativity, as shown by kinetic analyses and surface plasmon resonance detection

Kinetic studies of tetrameric recombinant human tyrosine hydroxylase isoform 1 (hTH1) have revealed properties so far not reported for this enzyme. Firstly, with the natural cofactor (6R)-Lerythro-5,6,7, 8-tetrahydrobiopterin (H4biopterin) a time-dependent change (burst) in enzyme activity was observed, with a half-time of about 20 s for the kinetic transient. Secondly, nonhyperbolic saturation behaviour was found for H4biopterin with a pronounced negative cooperativity (0.39 < h < 0.58; [S]0.5 = 24 +/- 4 microM). On phosphorylation of Ser40 by protein kinase A, the affinity for H4biopterin increased ([S]0.5 = 11 +/- 2 microM) and the negative cooperativity was amplified (h = 0.27 +/- 0.03). The dimeric C-terminal deletion mutant (Delta473-528) of hTH1 also showed negative cooperativity of H4biopterin binding (h = 0.4). Cooperativity was not observed with the cofactor analogues 6-methyl-5,6,7,8-tetrahydropterin (h = 0.9 +/- 0.1; Km = 62.7 +/- 5.7 microM) and 3-methyl-5,6,7, 8-tetrahydropterin (H43-methyl-pterin)(h = 1.0 +/- 0.1; Km = 687 +/- 50 microM). In the presence of 1 mM H43-methyl-pterin, used as a competitive cofactor analogue to BH4, hyperbolic saturation curves were also found for H4biopterin (h = 1.0), thus confirming the genuine nature of the kinetic negative cooperativity. This cooperativity was confirmed by real-time biospecific interaction analysis by surface plasmon resonance detection. The equilibrium binding of H4biopterin to the immobilized iron-free apoenzyme results in a saturable positive resonance unit (DeltaRU) response with negative cooperativity (h = 0.52-0.56). Infrared spectroscopic studies revealed a reduced thermal stability both of the apo-and the holo-hTH1 on binding of H4biopterin and Lerythro-dihydrobiopterin (H2biopterin). Moreover, the ligand-bound forms of the enzyme also showed a decreased resistance to limited tryptic proteolysis. These findings indicate that the binding of H4biopterin at the active site induces a destabilizing conformational change in the enzyme which could be related to the observed negative cooperativity. Thus, our studies provide new insight into the regulation of TH by the concentration of H4biopterin which may have significant implications for the physiological regulation of catecholamine biosynthesis in neuroendocrine cells.

Inducible expression of tryptophan hydroxylase without serotonin synthesis in hypothalamic dopaminergic neurons

In the present study we have further studied the previous findings that rat hypothalamic dopaminergic neuronal cell groups may express tryptophan hydroxylase (TpH), the serotonin synthesizing enzyme, without a detectable serotonin synthesis. Chemical and mechanical neuronal injuries, namely colchicine treatment and axonal transection, respectively, were performed, and distributions of neurons exhibiting immunoreactivity for TpH and/or tyrosine hydroxylase (TH), the dopamine synthesizing enzyme, were analyzed throughout the hypothalamic periventricular and arcuate nuclei. After colchicine treatment there was a statistically significant 87% (P = 0,01) increase in the number of TpH expressing neurons, while TH expression remained essentially similar. Axonal transection resulted also in a statistically significant 131% (P < 0,01) increase in the number of TpH expressing neurons, while TH expression was not significantly altered. All TpH expression coexisted with TH expression, and the induction of TpH expression by neuronal injuries occurred evenly throughout the rostrocaudal length of the territory studied. A possible serotonin synthesis by TpH was examined by giving drugs that increase brain serotonin synthesis, but no immunohistochemically detectable serotonin synthesis could be found in any of the TpH expressing neurons. Finally the possibility was studied that the relative shortage of the cofactor tetrahydrobiopterin would limit serotonin synthesis. However, an administration of tetrahydrobiopterin did not result in detectable serotonin synthesis in these neurons. Taken together these results suggest that dopaminergic neurons in the hypothalamic periventricular and arcuate nuclei are able to express TpH, this expression is induced after neuronal injury, and this induction occurs similarly throughout the territories studied. TpH expression occurs independently of TH expression, and the newly expressed TpH appears not to synthesize serotonin, regardless of pharmacological pretreatments. Thus, our findings (i) support the idea that neurons may possess inducible expression of nonfunctional transmitter-synthesizing enzymes, in this case TpH, and (ii) suggest that expression of an enzyme synthesizing a certain transmitter may not necessarily imply the corresponding transmitter phenotype.

GTP cyclohydrolase I feedback regulatory protein is expressed in serotonin neurons and regulates tetrahydrobiopterin biosynthesis

Tetrahydrobiopterin, the coenzyme required for hydroxylation of phenylalanine, tyrosine, and tryptophan, regulates its own synthesis through feedback inhibition of GTP cyclohydrolase I (GTPCH) mediated by a regulatory subunit, the GTP cyclohydrolase feedback regulatory protein (GFRP). In the liver, L-phenylalanine specifically stimulates tetrahydrobiopterin synthesis by displacing tetrahydrobiopterin from the GTPCH-GFRP complex. To explore the role of this regulatory system in rat brain, we examined the localization of GFRP mRNA using double-label in situ hybridization. GFRP mRNA expression was abundant in serotonin neurons of the dorsal raphe nucleus but was undetectable in dopamine neurons of the midbrain or norepinephrine neurons of the locus coeruleus. Simultaneous nuclease protection assays for GFRP and GTPCH mRNAs showed that GFRP mRNA is most abundant within the brainstem and that the ratio of GFRP to GTPCH mRNA is much higher than in the ventral midbrain. Two species of GFRP mRNA differing by approximately 20 nucleotides in length were detected in brainstem but not in other tissues, with the longer, more abundant form being common to other brain regions. It is interesting that the pineal and adrenal glands did not contain detectable levels of GFRP mRNA, although GTPCH mRNA was abundant in both. Primary neuronal cultures were used to examine the role of GFRP-mediated regulation of GTPCH on tetrahydrobiopterin synthesis within brainstem serotonin neurons and midbrain dopamine neurons. L-Phenylalanine increased tetrahydrobiopterin levels in serotonin neurons to a maximum of twofold in a concentration-dependent manner, whereas D-phenylalanine and L-tryptophan were without effect. In contrast, tetrahydrobiopterin levels within cultured dopamine neurons were not altered by L-phenylalanine. The time course of this effect was very rapid, with a maximal response observed within 60 min. Inhibitors of tetrahydrobiopterin biosynthesis prevented the L-phenylalanine-induced increase in tetrahydrobiopterin levels. 7,8-Dihydroneopterin, a reduced pteridine capable of inhibiting GTPCH in a GFRP-dependent manner, decreased tetrahydrobiopterin levels in cultures of both serotonin and dopamine neurons. This inhibition was reversed by L-phenylalanine in serotonin but not in dopamine neurons. Our data suggest that GTPCH activity within serotonin neurons is under a tonic inhibitory tone mediated by GFRP and that tetrahydrobiopterin levels are maintained by the balance of intracellular concentrations of tetrahydrobiopterin and L-phenylalanine. In contrast, although tetrahydrobiopterin biosynthesis within dopamine neurons is also feedback-regulated, L-phenylalanine plays no role, and therefore tetrahydrobiopterin may have a direct effect on GTPCH activity.

Regulation of pteridine-requiring enzymes by the cofactor tetrahydrobiopterin

Tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) is synthesized from guanosine triphosphate (GTP) by GTP cyclohydrolase I (GCH), 6-pyruvoyltetrahydropterin synthase (PTS), and sepiapterin reductase (SPD). GCH is the rate-limiting enzyme. BH4 is a cofactor for three pteridine-requiring monooxygenases that hydroxylate aromatic L-amino acids, i.e., tyrosine hydroxylase (TH), tryptophan hydroxylase (TPH), and phenylalanine hydroxylase (PAH), as well as for nitric oxide synthase (NOS). The intracellular concentrations of BH4, which are mainly determined by GCH activity, may regulate the activity of TH (an enzyme-synthesizing catecholamines from tyrosine), TPH (an enzyme-synthesizing serotonin and melatonin from tryptophan), PAH (an enzyme required for complete degradation of phenylalanine to tyrosine, finally to CO2 + H2O), and also the activity of NOS (an enzyme forming NO from arginine), Dominantly inherited hereditary progressive dystonia (HPD), also termed DOPA-responsive dystonia (DRD) or Segawa's disease, is a dopamine deficiency in the nigrostriatal dopamine neurons, and is caused by mutations of one allele of the GCH gene. GCH activity and BH4 concentrations in HPD/DRD are estimated to be 2-20% of the normal value. By contrast, recessively inherited GCH deficiency is caused by mutations of both alleles of the GCH gene, and the GCH activity and BH4 concentrations are undetectable. The phenotypes of recessive GCH deficiency are severe and complex, such as hyperphenylalaninemia, muscle hypotonia, epilepsy, and fever episode, and may be caused by deficiencies of various neurotransmitters, including dopamine, norepinephrine, serotonin, and NO. The biosynthesis of dopamine, norepinephrine, epinephrine, serotonin, melatonin, and probably NO by individual pteridine-requiring enzymes may be differentially regulated by the intracellular concentration of BH4, which is mainly determined by GCH activity. Dopamine biosynthesis in different groups of dopamine neurons may be differentially regulated by TH activity, depending on intracellular BH4 concentrations and GCH activity. The nigrostriatal dopamine neurons may be most susceptible to a partial decrease in BH4, causing dopamine deficiency in the striatum and the HPD/DRD phenotype.

GTP cyclohydrolase I gene expression in the brains of male and female hph-1 mice

The hph-1 mouse is characterized by low levels of GTP cyclohydrolase I (GTPCH) and tetrahydrobiopterin. A quantitative double-label in situ hybridization technique was used to examine CNS GTPCH mRNA expression within serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine neurons of male and female wild-type and hph-1 mice. In wild-type male and female animals the highest levels of GTPCH mRNA expression were observed within serotonin neurons, followed by norepinephrine and then dopamine neurons. Wild-type female animals were found to express lower levels of GTPCH mRNA in each cell type when compared with levels seen in wild-type males. GTPCH mRNA abundance in all three cell types was lower in hph-1 male than in wild-type male mice, with the greatest reduction in serotonin neurons. GTPCH mRNA levels were also lower in hph-1 female than in wild-type female mice, again with the greatest reduction occurring in serotonin neurons. Comparison of hph-1 male and hph-1 female mice revealed that the sex-linked difference in GTPCH mRNA expression observed in wild-type neurons was only present within female dopamine neurons. Overall, these results indicate that not only are basal levels of GTPCH mRNA expression heterogeneous across wild-type murine monoamine cell types but that gene expression is also modified in a sex-linked and cell-specific fashion by the hph-1 gene locus. The hph-1 mutation does not lie within the GTPCH mRNA coding region. The 5' flanking region of the GTPCH gene was cloned and sequenced and shown to be identical for both wild-type and hph-1 genomic DNA. Transient transfection assays performed in PC12 cells demonstrated that this 5' flanking region was sufficient to initiate transcription of a luciferase reporter gene. Although the hph-1 mutation does not lie within the 5' flanking region of the GTPCH gene, this region of the gene can function as a core promoter and is thus crucial to the control of GTPCH gene expression.

Viral gene delivery selectively restores feeding and prevents lethality of dopamine-deficient mice

Dopamine-deficient mice (DA-/- ), lacking tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) in dopaminergic neurons, become hypoactive and aphagic and die by 4 weeks of age. They are rescued by daily treatment with L-3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine (L-DOPA); each dose restores dopamine (DA) and feeding for less than 24 hr. Recombinant adeno-associated viruses expressing human TH or GTP cyclohydrolase 1 (GTPCH1) were injected into the striatum of DA-/- mice. Bilateral coinjection of both viruses restored feeding behavior for several months. However, locomotor activity and coordination were partially improved. A virus expressing only TH was less effective, and one expressing GTPCH1 alone was ineffective. TH immunoreactivity and DA were detected in the ventral striatum and adjacent posterior regions of rescued mice, suggesting that these regions mediate a critical DA-dependent aspect of feeding behavior.

In vivo L-DOPA production by genetically modified primary rat fibroblast or 9L gliosarcoma cell grafts via coexpression of GTPcyclohydrolase I with tyrosine hydroxylase

To investigate the biochemical requirements for in vivo L-DOPA production by cells genetically modified ex vivo in a rat model of Parkinson's disease (PD), rat syngeneic 9L gliosarcoma and primary Fischer dermal fibroblasts (FDFs) were transduced with retroviral vectors encoding the human tyrosine hydroxylase 2 (hTH2) and human GTP cyclohydrolase I (hGTPCHI) cDNAs. As GTPCHI is a rate-limiting enzyme in the pathway for synthesis of the essential TH cofactor, tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4), only hTH2 and GTPCHI cotransduced cultured cells produced L-DOPA in the absence of added BH4. As striatal BH4 levels in 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA)-lesioned rats are minimal, the effects of cotransduction with hTH2 and hGTPCHI on L-DOPA synthesis by striatal grafts of either 9L cells or FDFs in unilateral 6-OHDA-lesioned rats were tested. Microdialysis experiments showed that those subjects that received cells cotransduced with hTH2 and hGTPCHI produced significantly higher levels of L-DOPA than animals that received either hTH2 or untransduced cells. However, animals that received transduced FDF grafts showed a progressive loss of transgene expression until expression was undetectable 5 weeks after engraftment. In FDF-engrafted animals, no differential effect of hTH2 vs hTH2 + hGTPCHI transgene expression on apomorphine-induced rotation was observed. The differences in L-DOPA production found with cells transduced with hTH2 alone and those cotransduced with hTH2 and hGTPCHI show that BH4 is critical to the restoration of the capacity for L-DOPA production and that GTPCHI expression is an effective means of supplying BH4 in this rat model of PD.

Localization of GTP cyclohydrolase in monoaminergic but not nitric oxide-producing cells

The first and rate-limiting enzyme in tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) biosynthesis is GTP cyclohydrolase (GTPCH). BH4 serves as the essential cofactor for aromatic L-amino acid hydroxylases, such as tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) and tryptophan hydroxylase (TPH), as well as for nitric oxide synthase (NOS). We hypothesized that to provide access to the cofactor, a close association exists between BH4-synthesizing and BH4-dependent enzymes, and we determined the relationship among GTPCH, neuronal NOS (nNOS), and TH in rat brain and adrenal gland using immunohistochemistry and in situ hybridization. Analyses of adjacent sections revealed specific localization of GTPCH in TH-containing cells of the substantia nigra, ventral tegmental area, hypothalamus, locus ceruleus, and adrenal medulla, and also in TPH-containing cells of the dorsal raphe nucleus and pineal gland. Thus, BH4 can be synthesized in all monoaminergic cells and is readily available for the enzymes requiring it. In contrast, analysis of adjacent sections showed that nNOS was not colocalized with GTPCH. Scattered nNOS-positive cells were found in the cortex, striatum, cerebellum, and olfactory bulb, all areas that receive monoaminergic innervation. The absence of GTPCH in nNOS cells suggests that nitric oxide-producing cells may either obtain biopterin from monoamine-containing processes which terminate in close proximity, or take up biopterin released into the blood. Double labelling of the same section for TH and nNOS revealed the TH nerve terminals connecting with the nNOS-positive cell bodies, suggesting the possibility that the BH4-containing nerve terminals may directly donate this cofactor to the nNOS-containing cells.

GTP-cyclohydrolase-I like immunoreactivity in rat brain

GTPCH-I immunoreactive structures in the rat brain were studied using a polyclonal antibody raised in the chick. General mapping was made using the avidin-biotin-peroxidase technique and compared with the distribution of tyrosine hydroxylase and serotonin immunoreactivities. Double immunofluorescence was performed in order to establish real intracellular colocalization. GTPCH-I immunoreactivity was generally found to be low. Immunostained neurons were present in all the serotonin cell groups. In catecholaminergic neurons, although tyrosine hydroxylase immunoreactivity was always very high, GTPCH-I immunoreactivity was extremely variable, from relatively strong (substantia nigra, ventral tegmental area) to low (locus coeruleus, caudal part of the hypothalamus), extremely low (rostral hypothalamus, ventral brainstem) or almost absent (dorsal brainstem, some hypothalamic nuclei). When feasible, double immunolabeling revealed that all the serotonin cells and most of the tyrosine hydroxylase cells were also expressing GTPCH-I. Our results argue in favor of a regulation of tyrosine hydroxylase activity by the intracellular synthesis of BH4.