Hippocampal localization of 5'-nucleotidase as revealed by immunocytochemistry

High frequency stimulation induces sonic hedgehog release from hippocampal neurons

Sonic hedgehog (SHH) as a secreted protein is important for neuronal development in the central nervous system (CNS). However, the mechanism about SHH release remains largely unknown. Here, we showed that SHH was expressed mainly in the synaptic vesicles of hippocampus in both young postnatal and adult rats. High, but not low, frequency stimulation, induces SHH release from the neurons. Moreover, removal of extracellular Ca²⁺, application of tetrodotoxin (TTX), an inhibitor of voltage-dependent sodium channels, or downregulation of soluble n-ethylmaleimide-sensitive fusion protein attachment protein receptors (SNAREs) proteins, all blocked SHH release from the neurons in response to HFS. Our findings suggest a novel mechanism to control SHH release from the hippocampal neurons.

Expression of ectonucleotidases in the prosencephalon of melatonin-proficient C3H and melatonin-deficient C57Bl mice: spatial distribution and time-dependent changes

Extracellular purines (ATP, ADP, AMP and adenosine) are important signaling molecules in the CNS. Levels of extracellular purines are regulated by enzymes located at the cell surface referred to as ectonucleotidases. Time-dependent changes in their expression could profoundly influence the availability of extracellular purines and thereby purinergic signaling. Using radioactive in situ hybridization, we analyzed the mRNA distribution of the enzymes NTPDase1, -2 and -3 and ecto-5'-nucleotidase in the prosencephalon of two mouse strains: melatonin-proficient C3H and melatonin-deficient C57Bl. The mRNAs of these enzymes were localized to specific brain regions, such as hippocampus, striatum, medial habenula and ventromedial hypothalamus. NTPDase3 expression was more widely distributed than previously thought. All ectonucleotidases investigated revealed a prominent time-dependent expression pattern. In C3H, the mRNA expression of all four enzymes gradually increased during the day and peaked during the night. In contrast, in C57Bl, ecto-5'-nucleotidase expression peaked at the beginning of the day and gradually decreased to trough levels at night. Recording of locomotor activity revealed higher daytime activity of C57Bl than of C3H. Our results indicate that the expression of ectonucleotidases varies according to time and genotype and suggest that melatonin exerts modulatory effects associated with different regulations of purinergic signaling in the brain. These findings provide an important basis for further examination of the complexity of the purinergic system in the brain.

Nucleotide hydrolysis in rats submitted to global cerebral ischemia: a possible link between preconditioning and adenosine production

Adenosine, an endogenous neuroprotective agent, can be produced in the synaptic cleft from adenosine triphosphate (ATP) hydrolysis via the concerted action of two enzymes: ATP diphosphohydrolase and 5'-nucleotidase. The aim of the present study was to investigate such enzymatic activities in the hippocampus of rats subjected to single (2- or 10-minute) or double (2+10 minute, with a 24-hour interval in between, named preconditioned group) ischemic episodes. Ischemia was produced by four-vessel occlusion method. Histological analysis showed no cell death in 2-minute ischemia, and up to 90% of pyramidal CA(1) cell loss in the 10-minute ischemic group. As predicted, double ischemic rats displayed a significant cytoprotective effect (around 60%). Preconditioned rats presented a delayed enhancement in ATP diphosphohydrolase activity (for ATP and adenosine diphosphate hydrolysis) after 48 hours of reperfusion. 5'-nucleotidase activity was increased immediately after ischemic insult (for all groups) and after a late reperfusion period (48 hours). We suggest that preconditioning causes delayed changes in enzymatic activities that would conceivably lead to increased adenosine production. This effect could be related to cytoprotection seen in preconditioned rats.

Distribution of ectonucleotidases in the rodent brain revisited

Nucleotides comprise a major class of signaling molecules in the nervous system. They can be released from nerve cells, glial cells, and vascular cells where they exert their function via ionotropic (P2X) or metabotropic (P2Y) receptors. Signaling via extracellular nucleotides and also adenosine is controlled and modulated by cell-surface-located enzymes (ectonucleotidases) that hydrolyze the nucleotide to the respective nucleoside. Extracellular hydrolysis of nucleotide ligands involves a considerable number of enzymes with differing catalytic properties differentially affecting the nucleotide signaling pathway. It is therefore important to investigate which type of ectonucleotidase(s) contributes to the control of nucleotide signaling in distinct cellular and physiological settings. By using a classical enzyme histochemical approach and employing various substrates, inhibitors, and knockout animals, we provide, for the first time, a comparative analysis of the overall distribution of catalytic activities reflecting four ectonucleotidase families: ecto-5'-nucleotidase, alkaline phosphatases, ectonucleoside triphosphate diphosphohydrolases (E-NTPDases), and ectonucleotide pyrophyphatases/phosphodiesterases (E-NPPs). We place into perspective the earlier literature and provide novel evidence for a parenchymal localization of tissue non-specific alkaline phosphatase, E-NPPs, and E-NTPDases in the mouse brain. In addition, we specify the location of ectonucleotidases within the brain vasculature. Most notably, brain vessels do not express ecto-5'-nucleotidase. The preponderance of individual enzymes differs considerably between brain locations. The contribution of all types of ectonucleotidases thus needs to be considered in physiological and pharmacological studies of purinergic signaling in the brain.

Immunohistological Determination of Ecto-nucleoside Triphosphate Diphosphohydrolase1 (NTPDase1) and 5′-nucleotidase in Rat Hippocampus Reveals Overlapping Distribution

Distribution of two enzymes involved in the ectonucleotidase enzyme chain, ecto-nucleoside triphosphate diphosphohydrolase1 (NTPDase1) and ecto-5'-nucleotidase, was assessed by immunohistochemistry in the rat hippocampus. Obtained results have shown co-expression of the enzymes in the hippocampal region, as well as wide and strikingly similar cellular distribution. Both enzymes were expressed at the surface of pyramidal neurons in the CA1 and CA2 sections, while cells in the CA3 section were faintly stained. The granule cell layer of the dentate gyrus was moderately stained for NTPDase1, as well as for ecto-5'-nucleotidase. Glial association for ecto-5'-nucleotidase was also observed, and fiber tracts were intensively stained for both enzymes. This is the first comparative study of NTPDase1 and ecto-5'-nucleotidase distribution in the rat hippocampus. Obtained results suggest that the broad overlapping distribution of these enzymes in neurons and glial cells reflects the functional importance of ectonucleotidase actions in the nervous system.

Inhibition of NTPDase, 5'-nucleotidase, Na+/K+-ATPase and acetylcholinesterase activities by subchronic treatment with Casearia sylvestris

The aqueous extract of Casearia sylvestris was tested in cortical membrane preparations. C. sylvestris was obtained commercially from two different sources, designated as Sample A and Sample B. The enzymes studied in this work were NTPDase-like, 5'-Nucleotidase, Na(+)/K(+)-ATPase and acetylcholinesterase (AChE). Adult rats received aqueous extracts from C. sylvestris in a dose of 20mg/kg body wt. daily for a 75-day-period, by oral administration (gavage). Our study showed that this treatment caused an inhibition of NTPDase-like activity with both, ATP (19.41% with Sample A and 25.03% with Sample B) and ADP (41.57% with Sample A and 31.20% with Sample B) as substrates. This treatment also caused an inhibition of 5'-nucleotidase activity (28.34% with Sample A and 31.46% with Sample B) and Na(+)/K(+)-ATPase (25.08% with Sample A and 24.81% with Sample B). The rate of acetylcholine degradation was reduced, as shown by the inhibition of AChE (31.65% and 26.74%, Samples A and B, respectively). These results suggest that extracts of C. sylvestris can cause neurochemical alterations in the purinergic and cholinergic systems of the central nervous system.

Adenosine gates synaptic plasticity at hippocampal mossy fiber synapses

The release properties of synapses in the central nervous system vary greatly, not only across anatomically distinct types of synapses but also among the same class of synapse. This variation manifests itself in large part by differences in the probability of transmitter release, which affects such activity-dependent presynaptic forms of plasticity as paired-pulse facilitation and frequency facilitation. This heterogeneity in presynaptic function reflects differences in the intrinsic properties of the synaptic terminal and the activation of presynaptic neurotransmitter receptors. Here we show that the unique presynaptic properties of the hippocampal mossy fiber synapse are largely imparted onto the synapse by the continuous local action of extracellular adenosine at presynaptic A1 adenosine receptors, which maintains a low basal probability of transmitter release.

Adenosine in the central nervous system: release mechanisms and extracellular concentrations

Adenosine has several functions within the CNS that involve an inhibitory tone of neurotransmission and neuroprotective actions in pathological conditions. The understanding of adenosine production and release in the brain is therefore of fundamental importance and has been extensively studied. Conflicting results are often obtained regarding the cellular source of adenosine, the stimulus that induces release and the mechanism for release, in relation to different experimental approaches used to study adenosine production and release. A neuronal origin of adenosine has been demonstrated through electrophysiological approaches showing that neurones can release significant quantities of adenosine, sufficient to activate adenosine receptors and to modulate synaptic functions. Specific actions of adenosine are mediated by different receptor subtypes (A(1), A(2A), A(2B) and A(3)), which are activated by various ranges of adenosine concentrations. Another important issue is the measurement of adenosine concentrations in the extracellular fluid under different conditions in order to know the degree of receptor stimulation and understand adenosine central actions. For this purpose, several experimental approaches have been used both in vivo and in vitro, which provide an estimation of basal adenosine levels in the range of 50-200 nM. The purpose of this review is to describe pathways of adenosine production and metabolism, and to summarize characteristics of adenosine release in the brain in response to different stimuli. Finally, studies performed to evaluate adenosine concentrations under physiological and hypoxic/ischemic conditions will be described to evaluate the degree of adenosine receptor activation.

Effect of nitric oxide donors on extracellular ATP, ADP, and AMP catabolism in rat hippocampal synaptosomes

Extracellular adenine nucleotides acting as signaling molecules are inactivated by hydrolysis catalyzed by ectonucleotidases. Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) diphosphohydrolase (apyrase, EC 3.6.1.5) and 5'-nucleotidase (EC 3.1.3.5) are involved in an enzymatic chain for the hydrolysis of ATP to adenosine in the synaptic cleft. In this study, we investigated the in vitro effect of nitric oxide (NO) donors on extracellular ATP, adenosine diphosphate (ADP), and adenosine monophosphate (AMP) catabolism in hippocampal synaptosomes of rats. We evaluated the effect of the incubation time on ATP, ADP, and AMP hydrolysis in the absence and in the presence of 1 mM sodium nitroprusside (SNP). The inhibitory effect of SNP increased with the incubation time and the maximal inhibition was observed after 180 min for both enzyme activities. The inhibition observed attained a maximum at 1 mM SNP for ATP, ADP, and AMP hydrolysis, with the enzyme activities being markedly reduced at this concentration of SNP. However, other NO donors tested, such as S-nitroso-N-acetyl-penicillamine and isosorbide dinitrate, did not affect the enzyme activities. The effect of the NO donor, SNP, on extracellular ATP and ADP catabolism was increased by the addition of the thiol glutathione but this effect was not observed on extracellular AMP catabolism. The results suggest that the increased production of NO could have a modulatory role on the ectonucleotidase activities.

Immunologically distinct isoforms of ecto-5'-nucleotidase in nerve terminals of different areas of the rat hippocampus

Ecto-5'-nucleotidase is regarded as being the key enzyme in the formation of the neuromodulator adenosine from released ATP. However, the association of ecto-5'-nucleotidase with nerve terminals is not consensual. Only enzyme histochemical and biochemical studies, but not immunocytochemical studies, agree on a general synaptic location of the enzyme. To clarify this issue further we tested the effect of an antibody against ecto-5'-nucleotidase, previously used in immunocytochemical studies, on the activity of ecto-5'-nucleotidase in fractions of nerve terminals isolated from different areas of rat hippocampus. The specific activity of extracellular AMP catabolism was higher in synaptosomes from the CA3 area (0.81+/-0.06 nmol/min/mg of protein) than from synaptosomes from the CA1 area or the dentate gyrus or from the whole hippocampus (0.49-0.68 nmol/ min/mg of protein). The catabolism of AMP (10 microM) was equally inhibited (85-92%) in synaptosomes from whole hippocampus, CA1, CA3, or dentate gyrus by alpha,beta-methylene-ADP (100 microM) and equally unaffected by p-nitrophenyl phosphate (0.5 mM) or rabbit IgGs (100 microg/ml). However, the antiserum against ecto-5'-nucleotidase (100 microg/ml) inhibited extracellular AMP catabolism by 44% in CA3 synaptosomes but had little or no effect in synaptosomes from CA1, dentate gyrus, or whole hippocampus. A similar difference in the inhibitory potential of the antibody was observed between fractions of isolated 5'-nucleotidase binding to concanavalin A-Sepharose (70%) and fractions not retained by the lectin column (18%). Taken together, these results suggest that immunological isoforms of ecto-5'-nucleotidase exist in the rat hippocampal nerve terminals, with predominance in the CA3 area.

5'-Nucleotidase activity of mossy fibers in the dentate gyrus of normal and epileptic rats

Sprouting of mossy fibers in the hippocampus of rats that underwent limbic epileptogenesis by amygdala kindling or kainate injection was studied at the light microscopic and ultrastructural levels by cytochemical demonstration of the enzyme 5'-nucleotidase. This adenosine-producing ectoenzyme has previously been shown to characterize malleable terminals during brain development and lesion-induced synaptogenesis, but to be otherwise associated with glial membranes. At the light microscopic level, kainate-treated but not control or kindled rats showed 5'-nucleotidase activity in the CA3 region and in the inner molecular layer of the dentate gyrus. At the ultrastructural level, in control animals, the synapses of the molecular and granular layers were enzyme negative. Only some mossy fiber boutons of the dentate hilus exhibited 5'-nucleotidase activity. In epileptic rats, synaptic labeling within the hilus appeared more intense. Moreover, 5'-nucleotidase-containing terminals within the inner molecular layer, presumably ectopic mossy fiber boutons, were found in both kindled and kainate-treated rats. It is concluded that, in both the normal and epileptic hippocampus, 5'-nucleotidase is associated with axons capable of a plastic sprouting response. The synaptic enzyme may attenuate the glutamatergic transmission of mossy fibers, in particular of the aberrant mossy fibers in epileptic rats, by producing the inhibitory neuromodulator adenosine. Alternatively, 5'-nucleotidase may influence synapse formation by its putative non-enzymatic, adhesive functions.

Integrin family of cell adhesion molecules in the injured brain: regulation and cellular localization in the normal and regenerating mouse facial motor nucleus

Integrins are a large family of heterodimeric glycoproteins that play a crucial role in cell adhesion during development, inflammation, and tissue repair. In the current study, we investigated the localization of different integrin subunits in the mouse facial motor nucleus and their regulation after transection of the facial nerve. In the normal mouse brain, there was clear immunoreactivity for alpha5-, alpha6-, and beta1-integrin subunits on blood vessel endothelia and for alphaM- and beta2-subunits on resting parenchymal microglia. Facial nerve transection led to an up-regulation of the beta1-subunit on the axotomized neurons and an increase in the alpha4-, alpha5-, alpha6-, beta1-, alphaM-, alphaX-, and beta2-subunits on the adjacent, activated microglia. Quantification of the microglial integrins revealed two different expression patterns. The subunits alpha5 and alpha6 showed a monophasic increase with a maximum at day 4, the alphaM-subunit a biphasic regulation, with an early peak at day 1 and an elevated plateau between day 14 and 42. At day 14, there was also an influx of lymphocytes immunoreactive for the alpha4beta1- and alphaLbeta2-integrins, which aggregated at sites of neural debris and phagocytotic microglia. This finding was accompanied by a significant increase of the alpha5beta1-integrin on blood vessel endothelia. In summary, facial axotomy is followed by a strong and cell-type-specific expression of integrins on the affected neurons and on surrounding microglia, lymphocytes, and vascular endothelia. The presence of several, strikingly different temporal patterns suggests a selective involvement of these molecules in the different adhesive events during regeneration in the central nervous system.

Adenine nucleotides undergo rapid, quantitative conversion to adenosine in the extracellular space in rat hippocampus

There are multiple mechanisms by which adenine nucleotides can be released into the extracellular space in brain. Adenine nucleotides are converted extracellularly to adenosine, which then acts on adenosine receptors to elicit physiological responses, but the rate at which this conversion takes place is unknown. In the present experiments, adenine nucleotides were applied to individual hippocampal neurons, and the subsequent activation of a postsynaptic K+ conductance by adenosine A1 receptors was used to determine the rate of adenosine formation. None of the adenine nucleotides tested (cAMP, AMP, ADP, and ATP) activated A1 receptors directly at the concentrations tested (</=200 microM). AMP, ADP, and ATP were all rapidly converted to adenosine, with a T1/2 for ATP conversion to adenosine of approximately 200 msec, and the last step in this pathway (transformation of AMP to adenosine by 5'-nucleotidase) seems to be the rate-limiting step. As we have reported previously, cAMP is converted to adenosine as well, but on a much slower time scale than any of the other nucleotides tested. These experiments demonstrate that fast, localized release of AMP, ADP, or ATP can result in a transient activation of adenosine receptors but that this is unlikely to occur with cAMP. The existence of a highly active ecto-nucleotidase pathway in brain provides a mechanism for the rapid generation of adenosine after the release of adenine nucleotides into the extracellular space.

Focal cerebral ischemia enhances glial expression of ecto-5'-nucleotidase

The effect of ischemia on the reactive expression of ecto-5'-nucleotidase in rat brain was studied 6 h and 1, 2 and 7 days after permanent middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO). The distribution of 5'-nucleotidase in the infarcted brain was compared to markers for astrocytes (glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP)) and microglia (complement receptor type 3, antibody OX42) using histological staining or immunohistochemistry. 5'-Nucleotidase could be associated with reactive astrocytes by immunohistochemistry and with reactive microglia by enzyme histochemistry. In the untreated control 5'-nucleotidase was associated with astrocytes only in the hippocampus and the submeningeal space. After ischemia the enzyme was expressed on reactive astrocytes in the tissue surrounding the volume of infarction. Individual reactive astrocytes were observed 6 h after MCAO and the astrocytic expression became continuously enhanced during the following days. An enzyme histochemical analysis of 5'-nucleotidase activity revealed a postischemic increase in reaction product around the infarcted tissue. Seven days after MCAO a discrete band (0.2-0.4 mm) of reaction product characterized the rim of the infarcted area. This band of activity of 5'-nucleotidase colocalized with a band of immunoreactivity for OX42, indicative of an intense accumulation of 5'-nucleotidase expressing microglia. Our results suggest that ischemia following permanent MCAO results in an upregulation of the capacity for the hydrolysis of nucleotides within the tissue adjacent to the infarcted volume. Nucleotides released from the damaged cells can be hydrolyzed and the adenosine eventually formed may exert neuroprotective functions limiting the extent of damage.

A role for adenosine A2 receptors in the induction of long-term potentiation in the CA1 region of rat hippocampus

Although reductions in neurotransmission have been reported in response to agonist-mediated adenosine A1 receptor activation, the implications of A2 receptor activation on synaptic transmission have not been well explored. We examined the role adenosine A2 receptors play in the efficacy of neurotransmission between the Schaffer collateral-CA1 pathway in the rat transverse hippocampal slice. A2 receptor blockade in the presence of complete A1 receptor inhibition led to a reversible reduction of the field excitatory post-synaptic potential (EPSP) slope in response to low-frequency test pulses (0.033 Hz) indicating that A2 receptors can enhance synaptic transmission. A2 receptor blockade by the A2 antagonist, DMPX (3,7-dimethyl-1-propargylxanthine) prevented the induction of tetanus-induced long-term potentiation (LTP) of the EPSP. In contrast, no such effect on LTP induction was observed during A1 receptor blockade. We also examined the effects of DMPX on the induction of LTP during continued A1 receptor blockade with CPT. Under this condition, LTP was significantly reduced when compared to LTP induced in the presence of CPT alone. A similar result was found using the highly polar A2 antagonist 8-SPT (8-(p-sulfophenyl)theophylline) suggesting that the effects of DMPX on LTP were not due to a direct action on an intracellular intermediate. DMPX had no effect on LTP expression if applied 45 min following the tetanus indicating that A2 receptors play no significant role in the maintenance phase of LTP. Selective A2a receptor activation did not alter the field EPSP. Similarly, selective blockade of the A2a receptor did not interfere with tetanus-induced LTP. Increases in neuronal firing rates can result in elevations in the concentration of extracellular adenosine. Together, these results suggest that the A2 receptors may play an important role in the induction although not the maintenance of hippocampal LTP and that the effect is likely to be mediated by the A2b receptor.

5'-nucleotidase enzyme cytochemistry as a tool for revealing activated glial cells and malleable synapses in CNS development and regeneration

The demonstration of 5'-nucleotidase in neural tissue is achieved at both the light and electron microscopic levels by means of an enzyme cytochemical lead method, which is specific, sensitive and fast. By its activity this adenosine-producing ecto-enzyme (EC 3.1.3.5) outlines cellular surface membranes at the ultrastructural level. It is classically known as a marker of myelin and of astrocytes as well as (activated) microglial cells in the mature nervous system. In recent years, we discovered that 5'-nucleotidase is transiently active within synaptic clefts under conditions of development and regeneration. The enzyme is also seen at terminals in the mature retina and olfactory bulb, where spontaneous synaptic turnover occurs at adulthood. Thus, 5'-nucleotidase cytochemistry is useful in revealing sites of glial reactions and synaptic plasticity in CNS development and repair. It is assumed that the molecule affects terminal formation and cell motility due to dual functions in adenosine production and cell adhesion. Finally, at the light microscopic level, 5'-nucleotidase activity displays a dense neuropil staining which identifies topographic sub-units of certain parts of the nervous system, such as the striosomes of the basal ganglia, ocular dominance columns of the visual cortex and parasagittal bands of the cerebellum.

Extracellular metabolism of nucleotides in the nervous system

1. A variety of surface-located enzymes are involved in the metabolism of extracellular nucleotides. The biochemical properties of some of these are briefly discussed. 2. The molecular identity of ecto-diadenosine polyphosphate hydrolase has not yet been revealed. On neural cells the enzyme catalyses the hydrolysis of ApnA to Apn-1 and AMP. 3. The molecular structure of ATP-diphosphohydrolase has recently been identified. The enzyme occurs in essentially all tissues where it catalyses the extracellular hydrolysis of ATP and ADP with the formation of AMP. 4. Ecto-5'-nucleotidase is a GPI-anchored glycoprotein and catalyses the formation of AMP to adenosine. In the adult brain, and as revealed by immunocytochemistry, the enzyme is mainly associated with astrocytes. It is associated with developing nerve cells and cultured neural cells. In vitro its inhibition or suppression of its synthesis result in the inhibition of neurite formation and long-time survival of neural cells. Continued extracellular hydrolysis of AMP and formation of adenosine thus appear to be essential for neural differentiation and survival.

Preferential activation of excitatory adenosine receptors at rat hippocampal and neuromuscular synapses by adenosine formed from released adenine nucleotides

1. In the present work, we investigated the action of adenosine originating from extracellular catabolism of adenine nucleotides, in two preparations where synaptic transmission is modulated by both inhibitory A1 and excitatory A(2a)-adenosine receptors, the rat hippocampal Schaffer fibres/CA1 pyramid synapses and the rat innervated hemidiaphragm. 2. Endogenous adenosine tonically inhibited synaptic transmission, since 0.5-2 u ml-1 of adenosine deaminase increased both the population spike amplitude (30 +/- 4%) and field excitatory post-synaptic potential (f.e.p.s.p.) slope (27 +/- 4%) recorded from hippocampal slices and the evoked [3H]-acetylcholine ([3H]-ACh) release from the motor nerve terminals (25 +/- 2%). 3. alpha, beta-Methylene adenosine diphosphate (AOPCP) in concentrations (100-200 microM) that almost completely inhibited the formation of adenosine from the extracellular catabolism of AMP, decreased population spike amplitude by 39 +/- 5% and f.e.p.s.p. slope by 32 +/- 3% in hippocampal slices and [3H]-ACh release from motor nerve terminals by 27 +/- 3%. 4. Addition of exogenous 5'-nucleotidase (5 u ml-1) prevented the inhibitory effect of AOPCP on population spike amplitude and f.e.p.s.p. slope by 43-57%, whereas the P2 antagonist, suramin (100 microM), did not modify the effect of AOPCP. 5. In both preparations, the effect of AOPCP resulted from prevention of adenosine formation since it was no longer evident when accumulation of extracellular adenosine was hindered by adenosine deaminase (0.5-2 u ml-1). The inhibitory effect of AOPCP was still evident when A1 receptors were blocked by 1,3-dipropyl-8-cyclopentylxanthine (2.5-5 nM), but was abolished by the A2 antagonist, 3,7-dimethyl-1-propargylxanthine (10 microM). 6. These results suggest that adenosine originating from catabolism of released adenine nucleotides preferentially activates excitatory A2 receptors in hippocampal CAI pyramid synapses and in phrenic motor nerve endings.

Biochemistry, localization and functional roles of ecto-nucleotidases in the nervous system

Nucleotides such as ATP, ADP, UTP or the diadenosine polyphosphates and possibly even NAD+ are extracellular signaling substances in the brain and in other tissues. Enzymes located on the cell surface catalyze the hydrolysis of these compounds and thus limit their spatio-temporal activity. As a final hydrolysis product they generate the nucleoside and phosphate. The paper discusses the biochemical properties, cellular localization and functional properties of surface-located enzymes that hydrolyse nucleotides released from nervous tissue. This is preceded by a brief discussion of nucleotide receptors, cellular storage and mechanisms of nucleotide release. In nervous tissue nucleoside 5'-triphosphates are hydrolysed by ecto-ATP-diphosphohydrolase and possibly in addition also by ecto-nucleoside triphosphatase and ecto-nucleoside diphosphatase. The molecular identity of the ATP-diphosphohydrolase has now been revealed. The hydrolysis of nucleoside 5'-monophosphates is catalysed by 5'-nucleotidase whose biochemical properties and molecular structure have been studied in detail. Little is known about the molecular properties of the diadenosine polyphosphatases. Surface located enzymes for the extracellular hydrolysis of NAD+ and also ecto-protein kinases are discussed briefly. The cellular localization of the ecto-nucleotidases is only partly defined. Whereas in adult mammalian brain activity for hydrolysis of ATP and ADP may be associated with nerve cells or glial cells 5'-nucleotidase appears to have a preferential glial allocation in the adult mammal. The extracellular hydrolysis of the nucleotides is of functional importance not only during synaptic transmission where it functions in signal elimination. It plays a crucial role also for the survival and differentiation of neural cells in vitro and presumably during neuronal development in vivo.

A common mechanism mediates long-term changes in synaptic transmission after chronic cocaine and morphine

The mesolimbic system is known to play a role in self-administration of opioids and psychostimulants. Although morphine and cocaine act by separate cellular mechanisms initially, the present study describes a common change in synaptic regulation of dopamine cells in the ventral tegmental area 1 week after termination of chronic treatment with either drug. Normally, D1 receptor activation augmented the amplitude of a gamma-aminobutyric acid type B (GABA(B)) inhibitory postsynaptic potential (IPSP), but in drug-experienced animals, D1 receptor activation caused an inhibition of the GABA(B) IPSP. The inhibition was blocked by adenosine A1 receptor antagonists and by agents that disrupted the metabolism of cAMP. This long-lasting dopamine-adenosine interaction may be one mechanism involved in dopamine-mediated craving and relapse to drug-seeking behaviors.

Immunocytochemical localization of ecto-5'-nucleotidase in cultures of cerebellar granule cells

The distribution of ecto-5'-nucleotidase, a glycosyl phosphatidylinositol anchored membrane protein capable of hydrolysing extracellular nucleoside monophosphates, was investigated by immunocytochemistry in cultures of rat cerebellar cells obtained at postnatal days 6 and 8. The enzyme was expressed at the surface of granule cells including their neurites as well as on other neurons in the culture. The distribution of 5'-nucleotidase matched that of the synaptic vesicle protein 2. Oligodendroglial cells were identified by their immunoreactivity for 2',3'-cyclic nucleotide 3'-phosphodiesterase. Their entire surface was labelled for 5'-nucleotidase. In contrast, only a subset of astrocytes immunopositive for the glial fibrillary acidic protein revealed surface-located immunoreactivity for 5'-nucleotidase. Antibody-binding of the labelled-astrocytes was enhanced at restricted surface domains. Endothelial cells that avidly bind Lycopersicon esculentum lectin were the most intensely anti-5'-nucleotidase-labelled cell type of the culture. Double labelling revealed an exact match of surface-located antibody binding sites for 5'-nucleotidase and laminin. Immunoreactivity for 5'-nucleotidase was essentially absent from fibroblasts that could be identified by their immunoreactivity for fibronectin. All cell types that carried surface-bound 5'-nucleotidase also revealed a cytoplasmic pool of the enzyme. Our results provide the first immunocytochemical demonstration of the surface-location of 5'-nucleotidase in neurons. They suggest that the broad distribution of the enzyme at the surface of neurons and other cells types from neonatal brain reflects its functional importance in the differentiation of the nervous system.

Distribution of 5'-nucleotidase in the developing mouse retina

The distribution of 5'-nucleotidase was investigated in the developing mouse retina and also in the retina of the adult mouse and rat using a monospecific antibody directed against 5'-nucleotidase isolated from bovine brain. Already at the stage of the formation of the eye cup strong immunofluorescence was found at the ventricular surface. Throughout development the enzyme remained associated with the outer surface of the retina that corresponds to the former inner surface of the eye vesicle. During embryonic development immunoreactivity was also associated with the proliferating cellular elements which at that stage cannot yet be attributed to a defined retinal cell type. In the adult stage the surface-located retinal immunoreactivity is assigned to Müller cells with strongest fluorescence at the apical and microvilli containing cell compartment. Also the cellular processes in the outer nuclear layer, the outer plexiform layer and to a minor extent the inner nuclear layer revealed immunoreactivity. 5'-Nucleotidase immunoreactivity was found at the ventricular surface also of the adult brain. There it was associated with the apical surface of ependymal cells. Our results suggest that 5'-nucleotidase is of general functional importance for the metabolism of nucleotides at the ventricular surface of the retina as well as the ventricles of the brain, a feature that is maintained throughout development. Müller cells thus share not only functional characteristics of astrocytes and oligodendrocytes, as previously revealed, but also of ependymal cells to which they are closely related.

A1-receptor-mediated effect of adenosine on the release of acetylcholine from the myenteric plexus: role and localization of ecto-ATPase and 5'-nucleotidase

No attempt has been made so far to classify the subtypes of presynaptic inhibitory adenosine receptors located in the myenteric plexus and to localize ecto-ATPase and 5'-nucleotidase in the intestine. The release of [3H]acetylcholine and smooth muscle responses to acetylcholine were measured and the effect of selective adenosine receptor ligands was studied using field-stimulated isolated longitudinal muscle strips of guinea-pig ileum. Release of ATP and its hydrolysis rate were also measured using the luciferin-luciferase technique. A histochemical method combined with electron microscopy was used for localization of ecto-ATPase and 5'-nucleotidase, enzymes responsible for destruction of extracellular ATP, ADP and AMP. Subtype-selective A1-receptor agonists and antagonists inhibited and enhanced, respectively, the release of acetylcholine associated with neuronal activity. A significant amount of ATP was released in response to electrical stimulation and administration of carbamylcholine. The release of ATP was inhibited by atropine and 4-diphenylacetoxy-N-methylpiperidine methiodide, an M3-receptor antagonist. Hydrolysis of ATP was rapid and resulted in an accumulation of extracellular adenosine involved in presynaptic A1-receptor-mediated inhibition of acetylcholine release. While the inhibitory effect of adenosine and ATP was significantly potentiated by dipyridamol, an adenosine uptake blocker, that of 2-ms ATP was not. The effect of ATP was not competitively antagonized by 8-cyclopentyl-1,3-dipropylxanthine, a selective A1-receptor antagonist. In conclusion, axon terminals of cholinergic interneurons are equipped with inhibitory A1- and P2 gamma-receptors. Therefore, both adenosine and ATP control the release of acetylcholine through these receptors. ATP is mainly released from the smooth muscle in response to stimulation of M3-muscarinic receptors by endogenous acetylcholine (cascade transmission [Vizi E. S. et al. (1992) Neuroscience 50, 455-465]) and is rapidly hydrolysed by ecto-ATPase localized on the surface of the smooth muscle and axon terminals producing ADP and AMP, and by 5'-nucleotidase present only on the surface of smooth muscle cells producing adenosine.

5'-nucleotidase activates and an inhibitory antibody prevents neuritic differentiation of PC12 cells

Ecto-5'-nucleotidase catalyses the hydrolysis of AMP at the surface of a variety of cells whereas it is absent from others. In addition to its catalytic activity, a function in neural development and also its interaction with extracellular matrix proteins has been reported. In order to further elucidate the biological function of ecto-5'-nucleotidase we have investigated the effect of 5'-nucleotidase on nerve growth factor-induced differentiation of PC12 cells. Furthermore, we compared the effect of an inhibitory versus a non-inhibitory monospecific antibody against the enzyme on neuritic differentiation and survival of PC12 cells that constitutively express the enzyme. When coverslips are coated with the soluble form of ecto-5'-nucleotidase in addition to collagen, there is a considerable increase in nerve growth factor-induced neurite length during the first 24 h of culture. Addition of an antibody to a culture medium that inhibits 5'-nucleotidase activity to 33% of control values dramatically reduces the number of neurites per cell within 3 days of culture. The cells round up, cluster and eventually die. On the contrary, another antibody that had no significant effect on enzyme activity affected neither nerve growth factor-induced neurite formation nor survival of PC12 cells. Addition of adenosine (200 nM, 10 or 20 microM) to the culture medium did not influence PC12 cell differentiation. The effects induced by the inhibitory antibody could be only partially prevented by simultaneous application of adenosine. Our results suggest that 5'-nucleotidase is essential for nerve growth factor-induced neurite outgrowth and survival of PC12 cells.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Evidence that 5'-nucleotidase is associated with malleable synapses--an enzyme cytochemical investigation of the olfactory bulb of adult rats

The adenosine-producing ecto-enzyme 5'-nucleotidase has recently been assigned to malleable axon terminals in both the developing and regenerating adult nervous system, but is otherwise only glia-bound. Using a cytochemical lead method, we now show that 5'-nucleotidase activity is localized predominantly at glomerular and mitral synapses within the main olfactory bulb of normal, adult rats. As these terminals are prone to synaptic turnover even at maturity, the present findings favour the view that this enzyme constitutes a marker molecule for plastic synapses. It is suggested that functions of 5'-nucleotidase in purinergic neuromodulation and cell adhesion are unique to the olfactory bulb, and implied in synaptic arrangements and information processing.

Isolation of a Ca2+ or Mg(2+)-activated ATPase (ecto-ATPase) from bovine brain synaptic membranes

An ATPase was isolated from synaptosomal plasma membranes derived from bovine cerebral cortex. The protein has an apparent molecular mass of 50 kDa and a pI of 5.3 to 5.9. It can be labelled by incubation of intact synaptosomes with azido-GTP or azido-ATP. The isolated ATPase can be activated to a similar extent in the presence of millimolar concentrations of Mg2+ or Ca2+. It does not hydrolyze ADP. Maximal activity is obtained between pH 7.5 and 8.5. Typical inhibitors of cytoplasmic ATPases do not affect enzyme activity. The enzyme is specifically inhibited after previous incubation of intact synaptosomes in the presence of the slowly membrane-permeable enzyme inhibitor diazotized sulfanilic acid. Incubation of intact synaptosomes with diazotized sulfanilic acid results in a small increase in the apparent molecular mass of the enzyme. Our results suggest that the active site of the membrane bound enzyme faces the extracellular medium. It thus would represent an ecto-ATPase.