[125I][Tyr3]octreotide labels human somatostatin sst2 and sst5 receptors

Wnt/β-catenin modulating drugs regulate somatostatin receptor expression and internalization of radiolabelled octreotide in neuroendocrine tumor cells

BACKGROUND

Differentiated neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) express somatostatin receptors (SSTRs), targets for therapy with either unlabeled or radioactively labeled somatostatin analogs (SSA). Associated with worse prognosis, dedifferentiated NET loose SSTR expression, which may be linked to deregulation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling on an intracellular level. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway alterations on SSTR expression and its function in NET.

METHODS

The NET cell lines BON-1 and QGP-1 were incubated with the Wnt-inhibitors 5-aza-2'-deoxycytidine (5-aza-CdR), Quercetin, or Niclosamide, or the Wnt activator lithium chloride (LiCl). Expression of SSTR1, SSTR2, and SSTR5 was determined by quantitative RT-PCR (qRT-PCR), immunocytomicroscopy and western blot. Changes in the Wnt pathway were analyzed by qRT-PCR of selected target genes and the TaqMan Array Human WNT Pathway. Receptor-associated function was determined by measuring the cellular uptake of [125I-Tyr3] octreotide.

RESULTS

The mRNAs of SSTRs 1-5 were expressed in both cell lines. Wnt inhibitors caused downregulation of Wnt target genes, while 5-aza-CdR had the highest inhibitory effect. LiCl lead to an upregulation of Wnt genes, which was more marked in QGP-1 cells. SSTR expression increased in both cell lines upon Wnt inhibition. All three Wnt inhibitors lead to a marked increase in the specific uptake of [125I-Tyr3]octreotide, with 5-aza-CdR showing the greatest effect (increase by more than 50% in BON-1 cells), while a decreased uptake of [125I-Tyr3]octreotide was seen upon activation of Wnt signaling by LiCl.

CONCLUSIONS

We demonstrate here that Wnt signaling orchestrates SSTR expression and function in a preclinical NET model. Wnt inhibition increases [125I-Tyr3]octreotide uptake offering an opportunity to enhance the efficacy of SSTR-targeted theranostic approaches.

International Union of Basic and Clinical Pharmacology. CV. Somatostatin Receptors: Structure, Function, Ligands, and New Nomenclature

Somatostatin, also known as somatotropin-release inhibitory factor, is a cyclopeptide that exerts potent inhibitory actions on hormone secretion and neuronal excitability. Its physiologic functions are mediated by five G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) called somatostatin receptor (SST)1-5. These five receptors share common structural features and signaling mechanisms but differ in their cellular and subcellular localization and mode of regulation. SST₂ and SST₅ receptors have evolved as primary targets for pharmacological treatment of pituitary adenomas and neuroendocrine tumors. In addition, SST₂ is a prototypical GPCR for the development of peptide-based radiopharmaceuticals for diagnostic and therapeutic interventions. This review article summarizes findings published in the last 25 years on the physiology, pharmacology, and clinical applications related to SSTs. We also discuss potential future developments and propose a new nomenclature.

Toward a better understanding of the interaction between somatostatin receptor 2 and its ligands: a structural characterization study using molecular dynamics and conceptual density functional theory

This study is a part of the extensive research intending to provide the structural insights on somatostatin and its receptor. Herein, we have studied the structural complexity involved in the binding of somatostatin receptor 2 (SSTR2) with its agonists and antagonist. A 3D QSAR study based on comparative molecular field analysis and comparative molecular similarity analysis (CoMSIA) discerned that a SSTR2 ligand with electronegative, less-bulkier, and hydrogen atom donating/accepting substitutions is important for their biological activity. A conceptual density functional theory (DFT) study was followed to study the chemical behavior of the ligands based on the molecular descriptors derived using the Fukui's molecular orbital theory. We have performed molecular dynamics simulations of receptor-ligand complexes for 100 ns to analyze the dynamic stability of the backbone Cα atoms of the receptor and strength and approachability of the receptor-ligand complex. The findings of this study could be efficacious in the further studies understanding intricate structural features of the somatostatin receptors and in discovering novel subtype-specific ligands with higher affinity. Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

Development of octreotide-conjugated polymeric prodrug of bufalin for targeted delivery to somatostatin receptor 2 overexpressing breast cancer in vitro and in vivo

BACKGROUND

Development of polymeric prodrugs of small molecular anticancer drugs has become one of the most promising strategies to overcome the intrinsic shortcomings of small molecular anticancer drugs and improve their anticancer performance.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In the current work, we fabricated a novel octreotide (Oct)-modified esterase-sensitive tumor-targeting polymeric prodrug of bufalin (BUF) and explored its anticancer performance against somatostatin receptor 2 overexpressing breast cancer.

RESULTS

The obtained tumor-targeting polymeric prodrug of BUF, P(oligo[ethylene glycol] monomethyl ether methacrylate [OEGMA]-co-BUF-co-Oct), showed a nanosize dimension and controlled drug release features in the presence of esterase. It was demonstrated by in vitro experiment that P(OEGMA-co-BUF-co-Oct) showed enhanced cytotoxicity, cellular uptake, and apoptosis in comparison with those of free BUF. In vivo experiment further revealed the improved accumulation of drugs in tumor tissues and enhanced anticancer performance of P(OEGMA-co-BUF-co-Oct).

CONCLUSION

Taken together, this study indicated that polymeric prodrug of BUF holds promising potential toward the treatment of somatostatin receptor 2 overexpressing breast cancer.

Chronic mild stress alters the somatostatin receptors in the rat brain

RATIONALE

The involvement of somatostatin (SST) and its receptors in the pathophysiology of depression and stress has been evidenced by numerous studies.

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of the present study was to find whether chronic mild stress (CMS), an animal model of depression, affects the SST receptors in the rat brain and pituitary, as well as the level of SST in plasma.

METHODS

In CMS model, rats were subjected to 2 weeks of stress and behaviorally characterized using the sucrose consumption test into differently reacting groups based on their response to stress, i.e., stress-reactive (anhedonic), stress-non-reactive (resilient), and invert-reactive rats (characterized by excessive sucrose intake). We measured specific binding of [125I]Tyr3-Octreotide, expression of mRNA encoding sst2R receptors in the rat brains, expression of SST and its receptors in rat pituitary, and the level of SST in the plasma.

RESULTS

The obtained results show decreases in binding of [125I]Tyr3-Octreotide in most of rat brain regions upon CMS and no significant differences between three stressed groups of animals, except for significant up-regulation of sst2 receptor in medial habenula (MHb) in the stress-reactive group. In the same group of animals, significant increase in plasma SST level was observed.

CONCLUSIONS

There are two particularly sensitive sites distinguishing the response to stress in CMS model. In the brain, it is MHb, while on the periphery this predictor is SST level in plasma. These changes may broaden an understanding of the mechanisms involved in the stress response and point to the intriguing role of MHb.

The Concise Guide to PHARMACOLOGY 2013/14: G protein-coupled receptors

The Concise Guide to PHARMACOLOGY 2013/14 provides concise overviews of the key properties of over 2000 human drug targets with their pharmacology, plus links to an open access knowledgebase of drug targets and their ligands (www.guidetopharmacology.org), which provides more detailed views of target and ligand properties. The full contents can be found at http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.12444/full. G protein-coupled receptors are one of the seven major pharmacological targets into which the Guide is divided, with the others being G protein-coupled receptors, ligand-gated ion channels, ion channels, catalytic receptors, nuclear hormone receptors, transporters and enzymes. These are presented with nomenclature guidance and summary information on the best available pharmacological tools, alongside key references and suggestions for further reading. A new landscape format has easy to use tables comparing related targets. It is a condensed version of material contemporary to late 2013, which is presented in greater detail and constantly updated on the website www.guidetopharmacology.org, superseding data presented in previous Guides to Receptors and Channels. It is produced in conjunction with NC-IUPHAR and provides the official IUPHAR classification and nomenclature for human drug targets, where appropriate. It consolidates information previously curated and displayed separately in IUPHAR-DB and the Guide to Receptors and Channels, providing a permanent, citable, point-in-time record that will survive database updates.

Effect of octreotide-polyethylene glycol(100) monostearate modification on the pharmacokinetics and cellular uptake of nanostructured lipid carrier loaded with hydroxycamptothecine

A new conjugate, octreotide-polyethylene glycol(100) monostearate (OPMS), was developed for the enhancement of targeting delivery of hydroxycamptothecine (HCPT) loaded in nanostructured lipid carrier (NLC). 2 × 10(-3) and 5 × 10(-3) mmol of OPMS were respectively used to modify NLC so that the targeted nanocarriers with low and high ligand density were obtained. For comparison, the pegylated NLCs without octreotide were prepared by adding equal molar amounts of polyethylene glycol(100) monostearate (PGMS). The relation between the modification levels and properties of various NLCs were studied in vivo and in vitro. At a high modification level, a slower release rate of HCPT and the more stable nanocarriers was achieved. At the same time, the fixed aqueous layer thickness (FALT) and average surface density of PEG chains (SD(PEG)) was increased, but the distance (D) between two neighboring PEG grafting sites became narrower. The in vivo pharmacokinetic study in healthy rat indicated that the modified NLCs had a longer circulation than NLC (P < 0.05) due to pegylation effect and OPMS modified NLCs had larger MRT and AUC(0-t) than that of PGMS modified NLCs at the same modification level. Furthermore, the florescence microscopy observation also showed the targeting effect of octreotide modification on somatostatin receptors (SSTRs) of tumor cell (SMMC-7721). The uptake of SMMC-7721 was much more than that of normal liver cell (L02) for OPMS modified NLC, and the highest uptake was observed for 5 × 10(-3) mmol of OPMS modified one. No obvious difference was found among the L02 uptake of OPMS modified NLCs and NLC, but their uptake was higher than that of PGMS modified NLCs. All the results indicated that the OPMS highly modified NLCs would improve the effect of antitumor therapy by inhibiting the degradation, evading RES and enhancing the drug uptake of tumor cells.

A novel octreotide modified lipid vesicle improved the anticancer efficacy of doxorubicin in somatostatin receptor 2 positive tumor models

Octreotide (Oct) is a potential ligand due to its high affinity to somatostatin receptors (SSTRs), especially subtype 2 (SSTR2), as many tumor cells specifically overexpress SSTR2. In this study, we conjugated Oct to the PEG end of DSPE-PEG and prepared a novel doxorubicin (DOX)-loaded and Oct-modified sterically stabilized liposomes (Oct-SSL-DOX), in order to facilitate intracellular delivery of chemotherapeutic agent to the related tumor cells through active targeting and finally improve its antitumor activity. Three cells were proved to be different in expression level of SSTR2 and were used as model or control. It was demonstrated by fluorescence spectrophotometry, confocal laser scanning microscopy and flow cytometry that active sterically stabilized liposomes (SSL) increased intracellular delivery of DOX in SSTR2-positive cells, through a mechanism of receptor-mediated endocytosis. Compared to SSL, Oct modification on SSL exhibited little effect on the physicochemical properties of SSL. However, it reduced the circulation time of loaded-DOX to some extent in rats, increased cytotoxicity in SSTR2-positive tumor cells, enhanced drug accumulation in tumor tissue and improved anticancer efficacy in SSTR2-overexpressing tumor model. The correlation was found among intracellular uptake, cytotoxicity, drug distribution in tumor and pharmacodynamics of Oct-SSL-DOX, but not the pharmacokinetics based on plasma drug concentration. In summary, octreotide-modified SSL might be a promising system for the treatment of SSTR2-overexpressing cancers.

In vivo molecular imaging of somatostatin receptors in pancreatic islet cells and neuroendocrine tumors by miniaturized confocal laser-scanning fluorescence microscopy

The aim of the study was to evaluate real time in vivo molecular imaging of somatostatin receptors (sstrs) using a handheld miniaturized confocal laser scan microscope (CLM) in conjunction with fluorescein-labeled octreotate (OcF) in healthy mice and murine models of neuroendocrine tumors. For CLM a small rigid probe (diameter 7 mm) with an integrated single line laser (488 nm) was used (optical slice thickness 7 mum; lateral resolution 0.7 mum). OcF was synthesized via Fmoc solid-phase peptide synthesis and purified by HPLC showing high-affinity binding to the sstr2 (IC(50) 6.2 nmol). For in vitro evaluation, rat and human pancreatic cancer cells were used and characterized with respect to its sstr subtype expression and functional properties. For in vivo confocal imaging, healthy mouse pancreatic islet and renal tubular cells as well as immunoincompetent nude mice harboring sstr-expressing tumors were evaluated. Incubation of sstr-positive cells with OcF showed a specific time- and dose-dependent staining of sstr-positive cells. CLM showed rapid internalization and homogenous cytoplasmatic distribution. After systemic application to mice (n = 8), specific time-dependent internalization and cytoplasmatic distribution into pancreatic islet cells and tubular cells of the renal cortex was recorded. After injection in tumor-harboring nude mice (n = 8), sstr-positive cells selectively displayed a cell surface and cytoplasmatic staining. CLM-targeted biopsies detected sstr-positive tumor cells with a sensitivity of 87.5% and a specificity of 100% as correlated with ex vivo immunohistochemistry. CLM with OcF permits real-time molecular, functional, and morphological imaging of sstr-expressing cell structures, allowing the specific visualization of pancreatic islet cells and neuroendocrine tumors in vivo.

Pharmacological profile of somatostatin and cortistatin receptors

Somatostatin (SRIF) and cortistatin (CST) are two endogenous peptides with high sequence similarities that act as hormones/neurotransmitters both in the CNS and the periphery; their genes although distinct result from gene duplication. Their receptors appear to be common, since the five known SRIF receptors (sst1-sst5) have similar subnanomolar affinity for SRIF and CST, whether the short (SRIF-14, CST-14, CST-17) or the long versions (SRIF-28, CST-29) of the peptides. Whether CST targets specific receptors not shared by SRIF, is still debated: MrgX2 has been described as a selective CST receptor, with submicromolar affinity for CST but devoid of affinity for SRIF; however the distribution of CST and MrgX2 is largely different, and there is no MrgX2 in rodents. A similar situation arises with the GHS receptor GHS-R1a, which displays some preferential affinity for CST over SRIF, but for which there is no evidence that it is activated by CST in vivo. In both cases, one may argue that submicromolar affinity is not the norm of a GPCR for its endogenous neuropeptide. On the other hand, all receptors known to bind SRIF have similar high affinity for CST and both peptides act as potent agonists at the sst1-sst5 receptors, whichever transduction pathway is considered. In addition, [(125)I][Tyr(10)]CST(14) labels sst1-sst5 receptors with subnanomolar affinity, and [(125)I][Tyr(10)]CST(14) binding in the brain is overlapping with that of [(125)I][Tyr(0)]SRIF(14). The functional differences reported that distinguish CST from SRIF, have not been explained convincingly and may relate to ligand-driven transductional selectivity, and other complicating factors such as receptor dimerisation, (homo or heterodimerisation), and/or the influence of accessory proteins (GIPs, RAMPS), which remain to be studied in more detail.

Diagnostic targeting of colon cancer using a novel fluorescent somatostatin conjugate in a mouse xenograft model

Colorectal carcinoma is one of the more prevalent, highly malignant human tumors, occurring in about 7% of the population. However, if diagnosed and treated in its early stages, colon cancer is curable. In our study, we used a mouse xenograft model to investigate the capability of a fluorescent conjugate of a novel synthetic somatostatin (SST) analog to improve detection of human colorectal tumors that are characterized by over-expressed SST receptors. Human HT-29 colon carcinomas were induced in nude mice. After administration of the fluorescent SST conjugate, in vivo low- and high-magnification fluorescence microscopy, as well as high-resolution spectrally resolved imaging were performed, and the time-dependent biodistribution was determined quantitatively (using fiber-optic spectroscopy). Administration of the conjugate (at concentrations of 6 mg/kg body weight) enabled targeting small (1-5 mm diameter) tumors with high sensitivity and selectivity. Toxicity studies at dosages up to 1,000 mg/kg body weight did not reveal any drug related abnormalities. In conclusion, the SST conjugate significantly enhanced the detection of HT-29 colon tumors by fluorescence imaging because of a 5- to 8-fold increase in the contrast between malignant and normal tissues.

A functional comparison of recombinant and native somatostatin sst2 receptor variants in epithelia

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Somatostatin (SRIF-14) exerts broad spectrum antisecretory effects by activating the somatostatin 2 (sst(2)) receptor. The rat (r) sst(2) receptor exists in 'long' (sst(2a)) and 'short' (sst(2b)) forms that differ in their C termini, while a single human (h) sst(2a) exists. This study compares the characteristics of recombinant rsst(2a), rsst(2b) and hsst(2a) activation in human epithelia, and with native sst(2) responses in rat colon.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

Epithelial layers of each clone or rat colon were placed in Ussing chambers and short-circuit current (I (SC)) measured in response to SRIF-14 and chosen analogues. The relative potencies and ability to cause desensitization to SRIF-14 were assessed, and the affinities of the sst(2) antagonist, D-Tyr(8) CYN154806 for hsst(2a), rsst(2a) and native rat colon sst(2) receptors were established.

KEY RESULTS

Basolateral SRIF-14 responses were transient in hsst(2a) and rsst(2a) epithelia, but prolonged in rsst(2b)-expressing cells. Activation of rsst(2a) resulted in significant desensitization to SRIF-14 and receptor phosphorylation, whereas the rsst(2b) receptor did neither. Sst(2)-preferred agonists (BIM23190C and BIM23027) reduced I (sc) with similar potency and both caused complete desensitization to SRIF-14. CYN154806 antagonized hsst(2a) and rsst(2a) receptors with pK (B) values of 7.9 and 7.8, respectively. In rat colon mucosa, CYN154806 blocked SRIF-14 responses with a pA (2) value of 8.2, and BIM23190C responses with a pK (B) of 8.4.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

SRIF-14 caused rapid rsst(2a) receptor phosphorylation and desensitization of epithelial antisecretory responses, neither of which occurred with the rsst(2b) receptor. These mechanisms are most likely to be a prerequisite for sensitivity to sst(2)-analogues with radiotherapeutic potential.

The somatostatin sst1 receptor: an autoreceptor for somatostatin in brain and retina?

The sst1 receptor was the first of the 5 somatostatin receptors to be cloned by homology with the glucagon receptor 13 years ago. It is a 7-transmembrane domain G-protein-coupled receptor that is negatively coupled to adenylyl cyclase, but can also trigger other transduction pathways. The distribution of sst1 mRNA, immunolabeling, and radioligand binding are not entirely overlapping, but the recent availability of knockout (KO) mice and a (still limited) number of selective agonists/antagonists has increased our knowledge about this receptor. These new tools have helped to reveal a role for the sst1 receptor in hippocampal, hypothalamic, basal ganglia, and retinal functions. In at least the latter 3 structures, the sst1 receptor appears to act as an inhibitory autoreceptor located on somatostatin neurons, whereas in the hippocampus such a role is still based on circumstantial evidence.

Fish somatostatin sst3 receptor: comparison of radioligand and GTPgammaS binding, adenylate cyclase and phospholipase C activities reveals different agonist-dependent pharmacological signatures

1 The fish somatostatin receptor 3 (fsst3) is one of the few somatostatin (SRIF) receptors cloned from a non-mammalian species so far. Here we extended our earlier characterization of this receptor by investigating the guanine nucleotide sensitivity of agonist radioligand binding at the fsst3 receptor recombinantly expressed in CCL39 (Chinese hamster lung fibroblast) cells. Further, we measured somatostatin (SRIF) and cortistatin (CST) analogues stimulated GTPgammaS binding, inhibition of forskolin-stimulated adenylate cyclase (FSAC) and stimulation of phospholipase C (PLC) activities. The present transductional data were then compared with previous radioligand binding and/or second messenger features determined for fsst3 and/or human SRIF receptors (hsst2, hsst3 and hsst5). 2 The GTP analogue guanylylimidodiphosphate (GppNHp) inhibited binding of [125I]CGP 23996 and [125I][Tyr3octreotide by 72 and 83% suggesting preferential labelling of G-protein-coupled fsst3 receptors. By contrast, [125I]LTT-SRIF28 and [125I][Tyr10]CST14 binding was rather GppNHp insensitive (42 and 35% inhibition) suggesting labelling of both coupled and non-coupled receptor states. These results might explain the apparent higher receptor densities determined in saturation experiments with [125I]LTT-SRIF28 and [125I][Tyr10]CST14 (4470 and 4030 fmol mg(-1)) compared with [125I]CGP 23996 and [125I][Tyr3]octreotide (3420 and 1520 fmol mg(-1)). 3 SRIF14 (10 microm)-stimulated specific [35S]GTPgammaS binding by three-fold; SRIF28 and octreotide displayed full agonism, whereas most other ligands displayed 60-80% intrinsic activity compared with SRIF14. SRIF14 and SRIF28 inhibited forskolin-stimulated AC (FSAC) activity by 60%; all tested ligands except BIM 23056 inhibited FSAC with comparable high intrinsic activities. SRIF14 stimulated PLC activity five- to six-fold, as determined by measuring total [3H] IP(x) accumulation; it was rather insensitive to pertussis toxin (PTX, 100 ng ml(-1), 21% inhibition), which suggests the G(q)-family proteins couple to PLC activity. SRIF14, SRIF28 and [Tyr10]CST14 showed full agonism at PLC, whereas all other ligands behaved as partial agonists (20-70% intrinsic activity). BIM 23056, which showed weak partial or no agonism, antagonized SRIF14-induced total [3H]-IP(x) production (pK(B) = 6.83), but failed to block competitively agonist-stimulated [35S]GTPgammaS binding or agonist-induced inhibition of FSAC activity. 4 Comparison of the pharmacological profiles of fsst3 receptors established in GTPgammaS binding, FSAC inhibition and PLC stimulation resulted in low correlations (r = 0.410-0.594). Both rank orders of potency and rank orders of relative efficacy varied in the three second messenger experiments. Significant, although variable correlations were obtained comparing GTPgammaS binding and inhibition of FSAC activity with previously reported affinity profiles of [125I]LTT-SRIF28, [125I][Tyr10]CST14, [125I]CGP 23996, [125I][Tyr3]octreotide (r = 0.75-0.83; 0.68-0.89). By contrast, the PLC stimulation and radioligand-binding profiles did not correlate. 5 Comparison of the functional data (GTPgammaS binding, FSAC inhibition, PLC stimulation) of fsst3 receptors with those of human sst2, sst3, sst5 receptors expressed in CCL39 cells resulted in highest correlation with the hsst5 receptor (r = 0.94, 0.97, 0.49) > hsst2 (0.80, 0.50, n.d.) > hsst3 (0.25, 0.19, 0.17). 6 In summary, fsst3 receptors expressed in CCL39 cells are involved in signalling cascades similar to those reported for mammalian SRIF receptors, suggesting SRIF receptors to be highly conserved in evolution. Binding and functional data showed highest similarity of fsst3 receptors with the human sst5 receptor subtype. Different affinities, receptor densities and GppNHp-sensitivities determined with the four radioligands (agonists) are assumed to results from ligand-specific states of the fsst3-ligand complex. The differences in the rank orders of potency and relative efficacy in the various signalling cascades may be explained by agonist-induced receptor trafficking.

Somatostatin receptors 2 and 5 are preferentially expressed in proliferating endothelium

Angiogenesis is characterised by activation, migration and proliferation of endothelial cells and is central to the pathology of cancer, cardiovascular disease and chronic inflammation. Somatostatin is an inhibitory polypeptide that acts through five receptors (sst 1, 2, 3, 4, 5). Sst has previously been reported in endothelium, but their role remains obscure. Here, we report the expression of sst in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) in vitro, during proliferation and quiescence. A protocol for culturing proliferating and quiescent HUVECs was established, and verified by analysing cell cycle distribution in propidium-iodide-stained samples using flow cytometry. Sst mRNA was then quantified in nine proliferating and quiescent HUVEC lines using quantitative reverse transcriptase–polymerase chain reaction. Sst 2 and 5 were preferentially expressed in proliferating HUVECs. All samples were negative for sst 4. Sst 1 and 3 expression and cell cycle progression were unrelated. Immunostaining for sst 2 and 5 showed positivity in proliferating but not quiescent cells, confirming sst 2 and 5 protein expression. Inhibition of proliferating cells with somatostatin analogues Octreotide and SOM230, which have sst 5 activity, was found (Octreotide 10⁻¹⁰–10⁻⁶ M: 48.5–70.2% inhibition; SOM230 10⁻⁹–10⁻⁶ M: 44.9–65.4% inhibition) in a dose-dependent manner, suggesting that sst 5 may have functional activity in proliferation. Dynamic changes in sst 2 and 5 expression during the cell cycle and the inhibition of proliferation with specific analogues suggest that these receptors may have a role in angiogenesis.

Reversible Lipidization Prolongs the Pharmacological Effect, Plasma Duration, and Liver Retention of Octreotide

PURPOSE

Octreotide (OCT) was reversibly lipidized to improve the pharmacological effect and to increase the plasma half-life and the liver retention of OCT for greater therapeutic potential in the treatment of liver cancers such as hepatocellular carcinoma.

METHODS

OCT was chemically modified using reversible aqueous lipidization (REAL) technology. REAL-modified OCT (REAL-OCT) was characterized with high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight (MALDI-TOF) mass spectrometry. A single dose of OCT or REAL-OCT or vehicle only was subcutaneously administered to male Sprague-Dawley rats, and the plasma growth hormone (GH) levels were measured after an intravenous injection of 2.5 microg/kg of growth hormone releasing factor (GRF) to assess the ability of REAL-OCT on GH inhibition. Radio-iodinated Tyr3-OCT (TOC) and REAL-TOC were used for pharmacokinetic studies.

RESULTS

At 0.1 mg/kg, REAL-OCT inhibited the GRF-induced GH surge in rats for a greater than 24-h period in comparison to the 6-h period for OCT. The distribution and elimination half-life for 125I-REAL-TOC were 1.4 h and 6.6 h, respectively, which were significantly longer than those of 125I-TOC. Sustained high blood concentrations and reduced in vivo degradation were observed for 125I-REAL-TOC. In addition, 125I-REAL-TOC appeared to be targeted to the liver with persistent high liver retention.

CONCLUSIONS

REAL-OCT has a significantly enhanced pharmacological effect, and this is most likely due to the favorable changes in the pharmacokinetic parameters upon lipidization. The observed liver targeting effect of REAL-TOC suggests that REAL-OCT might be advantageous over OCT in treating liver cancers.

Functional correlates of somatostatin receptor 2 overexpression in the retina of mice with genetic deletion of somatostatin receptor 1

Somatostatin-14 (SRIF) and its receptors (sst(1-5)) are found in the mammalian retina. However, scarce information is available on the role of the somatostatinergic system in retinal physiology. We have recently used gene-knockout technology to gain insights into the function of sst(1) and sst(2) receptors in the mouse retina. The sst(1) receptor localizes to SRIF-containing amacrine cells, whereas the sst(2) receptor localizes to several retinal cell populations including rod bipolar cells (RBCs). Molecular data indicate that, in retinas with deletion of the sst(1) receptor (sst(1) KO), sst(2) receptors become overexpressed in concomitance with an increased level of retinal SRIF. To test whether this up-regulation of sst(2) receptors correlates with altered sst(2) receptor physiology, we studied the effect of sst(2) receptor activation on potassium current (I(K)) in isolated RBCs and glutamate release in retina explants. Both I(K) and glutamate release are known to be negatively modulated by sst(2) receptors in the mammalian retina. We used octreotide, a SRIF analogue, to activate selectively sst(2) receptors. Patch-clamp recordings from isolated RBCs indicated that the sst(2) receptor-mediated inhibition of I(K) was significantly larger in sst(1) KO than in control retinas. In addition, HPLC measurements of glutamate release in sst(1) KO retinal explants demonstrated that the sst(2) receptor-mediated inhibition of K(+)-evoked glutamate release was also significantly larger than in control retinas. As a whole, these findings indicate that the overexpression of sst(2) receptors in sst(1) KO retinas can be correlated to an enhanced function of sst(2) receptors. The level of expression of sst(2) receptors may therefore represent a key step in the regulation of sst(2) receptor-mediated responses, at least in the retina.

Radioiodine and 211At-labeled guanidinomethyl halobenzoyl octreotate conjugates: potential peptide radiotherapeutics for somatostatin receptor-positive cancers

Derivatives of the somatostatin analogues octreotide and octreotate labeled with radioiosotopes are used in the diagnosis and therapy of somatostatin receptor (SSTR)-positive tumors. A method has been devised to synthesize {N-(4-guanidinomethyl-3-iodobenzoyl)-Phe1-octreotate (GMIBO). Receptor binding assay and scatchard analysis yielded a Kd of 4.83 +/- 0.19 nM for this peptide. Derivatives of this peptide labeled with radioiodine ([*I]GMIBO) and the alpha-particle-emitting radiohalogen 211At N-(3-[211At]astato-4-guanidinomethylbenzoyl)-Phe1-octreotate; [211At]AGMBO} were prepared in a single step from a tin precursor in radiochemical yields of 30-35% and 15-20%, respectively. Paired-label internalization assays performed with the SSTR-positive D341 Med human medulloblastoma cell line demonstrated that [125I]GMIBO and [211At]AGMBO were specifically internalized 20-40% more than Nalpha-(1-deoxy-D-fructosyl)-[131I]I-Tyr3-octreotate ([131I]I-Glu-TOCA), the radioiodinated octreotide derivative previously shown to exhibit maximum internalization in this cell line. Uptake of [131I]GMIBO in D341 Med subcutaneous xenografts in a murine model (8.34 +/- 1.82 versus 8.10 +/- 2.23% ID/g at 1h) and SSTR-expressing normal tissues was comparable to that of [125I]I-Glu-TOCA and was shown to be specific. However, the uptake of [131I]GMIBO also was substantially higher in liver (16.9 +/- 3.15 versus 1.39 +/- 0.45% ID/g at 1 h) and in kidneys (44.33 +/- 6.47 versus 3.44 +/- 0.68% ID/g at 1h) compared to that of [125I]I-Glu-TOCA. These data suggest that these novel peptide conjugates retain their specificity for SSTR both in vitro and in vivo; however, because of their higher accumulation in normal tissues they would be best applied in settings amenable to loco-regional administration such as medulloblastoma neoplastic meningitis.

Role of somatostatin receptors on gastric acid secretion in wild-type and somatostatin receptor type 2 knockout mice

Somatostatin, probably acting through somatostatin type 2 receptors (SSTR2), is the main inhibitor of gastric acid secretion. We characterized gastric acid secretion in SSTR2 knockout mice, and used preferential somatostatin receptor agonists to assess the relative role of SSTR1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 on gastric acid secretion. Basal gastric acid secretion and the secretory response to a meal were similar in conscious wild-type and knockout mice. However, under urethane anesthesia, which releases endogenous somatostatin, SSTR2 knockout mice had a basal secretion 11-15-fold higher than wild-type animals (micromol/10 min:1.40+/-0.09 vs. 0.10+/-0.01, p<0.05). Gastrin immunoneutralization or H(2) receptors blockade (cimetidine), but not cholinergic blockade (atropine), reduced the high basal secretion in SSTR2 knockout mice. In SSTR2 knockout mice, gastrin and histamine stimulated acid secretion with similar efficacy, while in wild-type mice histamine was more effective than gastrin. SSTR2 knockout mice showed also a hypersecretory response to pylorus ligation compared with wild-type animals. In wild-type mice, somatostatin-14, SMS 201-995, and the SSTR2-preferential agonist, DC 32-87, inhibited gastrin-stimulated acid secretion with an order of potency SMS 201-995>DC 32-87>somatostatin-14. Preferential agonists for the SSTR1, 3, 4, and 5 were devoid of any effect. None of the compounds tested affected the high basal secretion observed under urethane anesthesia in SSTR2 knockout mice. These results show that gastric antisecretory effects of peripheral somatostatin are mediated solely through SSTR2. In the absence of functional SSTR2 other somatostatin receptors do not compensate for the lack somatostatin-SSTR2-mediated inhibition. Basal acid secretion and the response to a meal are normal in conscious SSTR2 knockout mice, suggesting the presence of somatostatin-independent mechanisms that compensate for the lack of somatostatin-SSTR2-mediated inhibitory responses.

A multi-tyrosinated sst1/2 receptor preferring somatostatin agonist inhibits reflex and immune-mediated secretion in the guinea pig colon

Somatostatin and its analogs such as WOC 3B were compared for their ability to alter the release of 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) and prostaglandins and to affect chloride secretory capacity, determined by activity of neural reflexes or by the influence of immune mediators and other secretagogues. In guinea pig colon set up in flux chambers, the multi-tyrosinated sst1/sst2 receptor preferring somatostatin agonist, WOC 3B, inhibited stroking-evoked 5-HT release without affecting basal release. WOC 3B had no effect on stroking-induced or basal prostaglandin E2 release (PGE2). Neither 5-HT nor PGE2 release was dependent on neural input. Tetrodotoxin induced a decrease in basal short circuit current (Isc) indicative of a decrease in chloride secretion. The decrease in basal Isc during neural blockade was highly correlated with the decrease in basal Isc when WOC 3B was used. In piroxicam- and atropine-treated tissues, to eliminate prostaglandins and cholinergic muscarinic input to crypts, WOC 3B further reduced the piroxicam-resistant and not the atropine resistant Isc during brush stroking the mucosa. Somatostatin and WOC 3B reduced the stroking-evoked Isc with similar half maximum concentrations of 1-2 nM. WOC 3B reduced by more than 50% dimaprit-evoked cyclical Isc. The rank order of potencies in inhibiting dimaprit-evoked Isc was: Somatostatin-14=WOC 3B>CH275=DC-32-92>DC-23-48>> >>DC-32-87=DC-32-97. Low nanomolar concentrations of WOC 3B primarily inhibited the neural effects of carbachol and forskolin on Isc without altering their epithelial effects. Equi-molar concentrations (4 nM) of CH275, a somatostatin sst1 receptor agonist, and the somatostatin sst2 receptor agonist, [Tyr(3)]-octreotide, inhibited dimaprit-evoked Isc by 25% and 26%, and their effects were additive. The results suggest that WOC 3B, a somatostatin analogue containing three tyrosine residues, has anti-secretory effects due to activation of somatostatin sst1 and sst2 receptors on enteric neurons.

Characterisation of [125I]-Tyr0DTrp8-somatostatin binding in sst1- to sst4- and SRIF-gene-invalidated mouse brain

Five somatostatin receptors (sst) have been cloned and mRNAs for the first four (sst1-4) are expressed in many brain regions. In the present work, we compared the distribution of the non-selective ligand [125I]-Tyr0-DTrp8-SRIF14 by autoradiography in 24 brain regions and pituitary in wild type, sst1- to sst4- or SRIF-gene invalidated (KO) mice. [125I]-Tyr0-DTrp8-SRIF14 binding was not significantly modified in sst1 KO mouse brain with the noticeable exception of the substantia nigra and only moderately decreased in pituitary. For sst2 KO mice, a general decrease (>75%) was observed in most regions, with the noticeable exception of the olfactory bulb and CA1 field of the hippocampus. SST3 KO brain displayed a decrease in binding in the external plexiform layer of the olfactory bulb only (-54%). For sst4 KO mice, [125I]-Tyr0-DTrp8-SRIF14 binding levels in the external plexiform (-35%) and glomerular (-39%) layers of the olfactory bulb as well as the hippocampus CA1 field (-68%) were significantly decreased. In SRIF KO mice, a significant increase in binding levels was observed in olfactory bulb, anterior olfactory nucleus, frontal cortex upper layers, lateral septum, CA1 field, zona incerta and lateral hypothalamus, substantia nigra, periaqueductal grey and parabrachial nucleus. Competition with selective ligands (CH275, octreotide or L-779,976, L-796,778, L-803,087, and octreotide or L-817,778, for sst1-5 receptors, respectively) was in accordance with these findings. Moreover, octreotide was still able to compete on residual [125I]-Tyr0-DTrp8-SRIF14 binding sites in sst2 KO pituitary. It is concluded that most [125I]-Tyr0-DTrp8-SRIF14 binding sites in mouse brain and pituitary belong to the sst2 subtype but for the olfactory bulb (sst3 and sst4 receptors), the CA1 of the hippocampus (sst4 receptors) and the pituitary (sst5 and sst1 receptors) in which other subtypes are also expressed. The overall increase in [125I]-Tyr0-DTrp8-SRIF14 binding in SRIF KO mice indicates that SRIF receptors, mostly from the sst2 subtype, are regulated by the endogenous ligand(s).

Somatostatin receptor subtypes 2 and 4 affect seizure susceptibility and hippocampal excitatory neurotransmission in mice

We have investigated the role of somatostatin receptor subtypes sst2 and sst4 in limbic seizures and glutamate-mediated neurotransmission in mouse hippocampus. As compared to wild-type littermates, homozygous mice lacking sst2 receptors showed a 52% reduction in EEG ictal activity induced by intrahippocampal injection of 30 ng kainic acid (P < 0.05). The number of behavioural tonic-clonic seizures was reduced by 50% (P < 0.01) and the time to onset of seizures was doubled on average (P < 0.05). Seizure-associated neurodegeneration was found in the injected hippocampus (CA1, CA3 and hilar interneurons) and sporadically in the ipsilateral latero-dorsal thalamus. This occurred to a similar extent in wild-type and sst2 knock-out mice. Intrahippocampal injection of three selective sst2 receptor agonists in wild-type mice (Octreotide, BIM 23120 and L-779976, 1.5-6.0 nmol) did not affect kainate seizures while the same compounds significantly reduced seizures in rats. L-803087 (5 nmol), a selective sst4 receptor agonist, doubled seizure activity in wild-type mice on average. Interestingly, this effect was blocked by 3 nmol octreotide. It was determined, in both radioligand binding and cAMP accumulation, that octreotide had no direct agonist or antagonist action at mouse sst4 receptors expressed in CCl39 cells, up to micromolar concentrations. In hippocampal slices from wild-type mice, octreotide (2 micro m) did not modify AMPA-mediated synaptic responses while facilitation occurred with L-803087 (2 micro m). Similarly to what was observed in seizures, the effect of L-803087 was reduced by octreotide. In hippocampal slices from sst2 knock-out mice, both octreotide and L-803087 were ineffective on synaptic responses. Our findings show that, unlike in rats, sst2 receptors in mice do not mediate anticonvulsant effects. Moreover, stimulation of sst4 receptors in the hippocampus of wild-type mice induced excitatory effects which appeared to depend on the presence of sst2 subtypes, suggesting these receptors are functionally coupled.

Somatostatin sst2 receptor knock-out mice: localisation of sst1-5 receptor mRNA and binding in mouse brain by semi-quantitative RT-PCR, in situ hybridisation histochemistry and receptor autoradiography

The peptide hormone/neurotransmitter somatostatin (somatotropin release inhibiting factor; SRIF) and its receptors (sst(1)-sst(5)) appear to regulate many physiological functions in the CNS. Semi-quantitative analysis of the densities of mRNA expression for sst(1-5) receptors and SRIF receptor binding sites were established in sst(2) receptor knock-out (KO) mice. Patterns of sst(1-5) receptor mRNA expression were largely conserved for sst(1,3,4) and sst(5) selective oligonucleotide probes; whereas sst(2) signals were completely absent in KO mouse brain. Autoradiographic analysis demonstrated [(125)I]LTT SRIF(28), [(125)I]CGP 23996 (two radioligands known to label all five recombinant SRIF receptors) and [(125)I]Tyr(3)-octreotide (sst(2) and sst(5) receptor selective) binding in wild type (WT) mouse brain sections; yet no specific binding of [(125)I]Tyr(3)-octreotide in KO mice. In contrast, [(125)I]LTT SRIF(28) and [(125)I]CGP 23996 binding was still present in a number of brain areas in KO mice, although to a lesser degree than in those regions where [(125)I]Tyr(3)-octreotide binding was found, in WT animals. The present data suggest first, that both sst(2) receptor protein and mRNA were completely absent in the brain of these KO animals. Second, there was little evidence of compensatory regulation, at the mRNA level, of the other SRIF receptors as a consequence of the sst(2) KO. Third, the absence of any [(125)I]Tyr(3)-octreotide binding, in KO mice, suggests that this particular ligand is selective for the sst(2) receptor subtype (under the conditions utilised); or that sst(5) receptors are only marginally expressed in brain. Fourth, there were regions where the binding of [(125)I]LTT SRIF(28) and [(125)I]CGP 23996 were moderately affected by the sst(2) KO, suggesting that additional SRIF receptors may well contribute to the binding of the aforementioned radioligands. Finally, since the relative distribution of these two ligands were not entirely superimposable, it suggests that their respective selectivity profiles towards the different SRIF receptor subtypes in situ are not identical.

Pharmacological characterisation of the goldfish somatostatin sst5 receptor

Somatostatin (somatotropin release inhibiting factor, SRIF), exerts its effects via specific G protein coupled receptors of which five subtypes have been cloned (sst1-5). Recently, SRIF receptors have also been cloned from fish tissues. In this study, goldfish sst5 receptors (gfsst5) were expressed and characterised in the Chinese hamster lung fibroblast cell line, that harbours the luciferase reporter gene driven by the serum responsive element (CCL39-SRE-Luci). The agonist radioligands [125I]-LTT-SRIF-28 ([Leu8, DTrp22, 125I-Tyr25]SRIF-28) and [125I][Tyr10]cortistatin-14 labelled similar receptor densities with high affinity and in a saturable manner (pKd: 9.99-9.71; Bmax: 300-350 fmol mg-1). 5'-Guanylyl-imidodiphosphate inhibited radioligand binding to some degree (38.5-57.9%). In competition binding studies, the pharmacological profile of SRIF binding sites defined with [125I]LTT-SRIF-28 and [125I][Tyr10]cortistatin-14 correlated significantly (r2=0.97, n=20). Pharmacological profiles of human and mouse sst5 receptors expressed in CCL39 cells correlated markedly less with those of the gfsst5 profile (r2=0.52-0.78, n > or = b16). Functional expression of the gfsst5 receptor was examined by measurement of agonist-induced luciferase expression and stimulation of [35S]GTPgammaS ([35S]guanosine 5'-O-(3-thiotriphosphate) binding. Profiles were similar to those achieved in radioligand binding studies (r2=0.81-0.93, n=20), although relative potency (pEC50) was reduced compared to pKd values. Relative efficacy profiles of luciferase expression and [35S]GTPgammaS binding, were rather divergent (r2=0.48, n=20) with peptides showing full agonism at one pathway and absence of agonism at the other. BIM 23056 (D-Phe-Phe-Tyr-D-Trp-Lys-Val-Phe-D-Nal-NH2) acted as an antagonist on the effects of SRIF-14 (pKB=6.74 +/- 0.23) on stimulation of [35S]GTPgammaS binding. Pertussis toxin abolished the effect of SRIF-14 on luciferase expression and [35S]GTPgammaS binding suggesting coupling of the receptor to G(i)/G(o) proteins. In summary, the present studies demonstrate that the gfsst5 receptor has a similar pharmacological profile and transductional properties to mammalian sst5 receptors. The difference in efficacy profiles defined using different functional assays suggests numerous, agonist specific, conformational receptor states, and/or ligand-dependent receptor trafficking.

Somatostatin-induced regulation of SST(2A) receptor expression and cellsurface availability in central neurons: role of receptor internalization

To investigate the effects of somatostatin (somatotropin release-inhibiting factor, SRIF) on the regulation of SST(2A) receptors in mammalian brain, we examined how blockade of SRIF release or stimulation by the SRIF analog [d-Trp(8)]-SRIF would affect the expression and cell surface availability of SST(2A) receptors in rat brain slices. First, we measured the intensity of SST(2A) immunoreactivity, using quantitative light microscopic immunocytochemistry, and levels of SST(2A) mRNA, using semiquantitative RT-PCR, under conditions of acute SRIF release blockade. Incubation of slices from the claustrum or basolateral amygdala, two regions previously shown to contain high concentrations of SST(2A) receptors, in Ca(2+)-free Ringer's for 40 min induced a decrease in the intensity of SST(2A) receptor immunoreactivity and concentration of SST(2A) mRNA as compared with control values obtained in Ca(2+)-supplemented Ringer's. These effects were counteracted in a dose-dependent manner by the addition of 10-100 nm [d-Trp(8)]-SRIF to the Ca(2+)-free medium. Furthermore, both of these effects were abolished in the presence of the endocytosis inhibitors phenylarsine oxide or hyperosmolar sucrose, suggesting that they were dependent on receptor internalization. Electron microscopic immunogold labeling confirmed the existence of an agonist-induced internalization of SST(2A) receptors in central neurons. At a high (10 microm), but not at a low (10 nm), concentration of agonist this internalization resulted in a significant decrease in cell surface receptor density, irrespective of the presence of Ca(2+) in the medium. Taken together, these results suggest that ligand-induced endocytosis is responsible for rapid transcriptional (increase in SST(2A) expression) and trafficking (loss of cell surface receptors) events involved in the control of the somatostatinergic signal.

Cloning, expression and pharmacological characterisation of the mouse somatostatin sst(5) receptor

The mouse somatostatin (somatotropin release inhibiting factor, SRIF) sst(5) receptor coding sequence was cloned from a mouse BALB/c genomic library. It shows 97% and 81% homology with the corresponding rat and human receptors, respectively. The msst(5) receptor messenger RNA (mRNA) is present at low levels in the adult mouse brain, with significant expression in a few nuclei only, e.g. in the septum (lateral septal nuclei) or the amygdala (medial amygdaloid nucleus); very few signals were observed in the mesencephalon, metencephalon, and myelencephalon (except the dorsal motor nucleus of the vagus nerve). The msst(5) receptor was stably expressed in the hamster fibroblast cell line CCL39-SRE-Luci, which harbours the luciferase reporter gene driven by the serum responsive element. [(125)I]LTT-SRIF-28 ([Leu(8), D-Trp(22), (125)I-Tyr(25)]-SRIF-28), [(125)I]Tyr(10)-CST, [(125)I]CGP 23996, and [(125)I]Tyr(3)-octreotide labelled msst(5) receptors with high affinity (pK(d) values: 11.0, 10.15, 9.75 and 9.43) and in a saturable manner, but defined different Bmax values: 697, 495, 540 and 144 fmoles/mg, respectively. [(125)I]LTT-SRIF-28-labelled sites displayed the following rank order: SRIF-28> rCST-14> somatuline > CGP-23996= SRIF-14= octreotide, whereas [(125)I]Tyr(3)-octreotide-labelled sites displayed a different profile: octreotide > SRIF-28> rCST-14= somatuline > SRIF-14> CGP-23996. The pharmacological profiles determined with [(125)I]LTT-SRIF-28, [(125)I]CGP 23996 and [(125)I]Tyr(10)-CST correlated highly significantly (r(2) =0.88-0.99), whereas [(125)I]Tyr(3)-octreotide binding was rather divergent (r(2) =0.77). Also, human and mouse sst(5) receptor profiles are very different, e. g. r(2) =0.385 for [(125)I]Tyr(10)-CST and r(2) =0.323 for [(125)I]LTT-SRIF-28-labelled sites. Somatostatin induces expression of luciferase reporter gene in CCL39-SRE-Luci cells. The profile was consistent with a msst(5) receptor-mediated effect although apparent potency in the luciferase assay was much reduced compared to radioligand binding data: Octreotide = SRIF-28> rCST-14= SRIF-14= CGP-23996. Octreotide, SRIF-28, BIM23052 and D Tyr Cyanamid 154806 behaved as full or nearly full agonists in comparison to SRIF-14, whereas the other compounds had relative efficacies of 40 to 70%. The present study shows that agonists radioligands define apparently different receptor populations in terms of number of sites and pharmacological profile in cells expressing a single recombinant receptor. These variations suggest that the conformation of the ligand receptor complex may vary depending on the agonist. Further, the msst(5) receptor, although primarily coupled to Gi/Go proteins, is able to stimulate luciferase gene expression driven by the serum responsive element. Finally, it is suggested that putative sst(2) selective agonists e.g. octreotide, RC160 or BIM23027 show similar or higher potency at msst(5) receptors than SRIF-14.

Distribution and characterisation of somatostatin receptor mRNA and binding sites in the brain and periphery

The distribution and nature of (somatostatin) SRIF receptors and receptor mRNAs was studied in the brain and periphery of various laboratory animals using in situ hybridisation, autoradiography and radioligand binding. The messenger RNA (mRNA) expression of SRIF receptors msst1, msst2, msst3, msst4 and msst5 was studied in the adult mouse brain by in situ hybridisation histochemistry using specific oligonucleotide probes and compared to that of adult rats. As observed in rat brain, sst3 receptor mRNA is prominently expressed across the mouse brain, although equivalent binding has not yet been identified in situ. Sst1 and sst2 receptor mRNA expression, was prominent and again comparable to that observed in rat brain, whereas sst4 and especially sst5 receptor mRNA show comparatively low levels, although the former appears to be widely distributed while the latter could only be identified in a few nuclei. Altogether, the data are compatible with current knowledge, i.e. sst1 and sst2 receptor mRNA is prominent (both receptors have been functionally identified in the brain and for sst2 in the periphery), sst3 mRNA is highly expressed but in the absence of any functional correlate remains elusive. The expression of sst4 mRNA is comparatively low (especially when compared to what is seen in the lung, where high densities of sst4 receptors are present) and it remains to be seen whether sst5 receptor mRNA, which is confined to a few nuclei, will play a role in the brain, keeping in mind that high levels are found in the pituitary. Radioligand binding studies were performed in CCL39 cells expressing the five human recombinant receptors and compared to binding in membranes of rat cerebral cortex with [125I]Tyr11-SRIF14 which in the presence of 120 mM labels primarily sst1 receptor as suggested by the better correlation hsst1 and similar rank order of potency. The profile of [125I]Tyr3-octreotide labelled sites in rat cortex correlates better with recombinant sst2 than sst3 or sst5 binding profiles. Finally, [125I]LTT-SRIF28-labelled sites in rat lung express a sst4 receptor profile in agreement with previous findings. SRIF receptor autoradiography was performed in the brain and peripheral tissue of rat and/or guinea-pig using a number of ligands known to label recombinant SRIF receptors: [125I]LTT-SRIF28, [125I]CGP 23996, [125I]Tyr10-CST, or [125I]Tyr3-octreotide. Although, [125I]Tyr10-CST has been shown to label all five recombinant SRIF receptors, it is apparent that this radioligand is not useful for autoradiographic studies. By contrast, the other three ligands show good signal to noise ratios in rat or guinea-pig brain, rat lung, rat pancreas, or guinea-pig ileum. In most tissues, [125I]Tyr3-octreotide represents a prominent part of the binding (when compared to [125I]LTT-SRIF28 and [125I]CGP 23996), suggesting that sst2 receptors are strongly expressed in most tissues; it is only in rat lung that [125I]LTT-SRIF28 and [125I]CGP 23996 show marked binding, whereas [125I]Tyr3-octreotide does apparently label no sites, in agreement with the sole presence of sst4 receptors in this tissue.

Syntheses and biological activities of sandostatin analogs containing stereochemical changes in positions 6 or 8

In a continuation of our research efforts on the design and synthesis of novel peptidomimetic structures, we have synthesized a series of sandostatin amide analogs in which stereoisomers of threonine and beta-hydroxyvaline(beta-Hyv) are employed. The analogs D-Phe1-c[Cys2-Phe3-D-Trp4-Lys5-Xaa6-Cys 7]-Xbb8-NH2 (Xaa = allo-Thr, D-allo-Thr, D-beta-Hyv, beta-Hyv, D-Thr, and Xbb = Thr or Xaa = Thr and Xbb = allo-Thr, D-allo-Thr, beta-Hyv, D-Thr) explore the effects on biological activity of stereochemical modifications and beta-methylation at positions 6 or 8. By these modifications, we examine the role of the two residues in binding to somatostatin receptors. We describe the synthesis and biological activity of these analogs. In combination with the results of the conformational analysis, this study provides new insights into the structural requirements for the binding affinity of somatostatin amide analogs to somatostatin receptors [Mattern et al., Conformational analyses of sandostatin analogs containing stereochemical changes in positions 6 or 8].

Somatostatin-induced control of cytosolic free calcium in pituitary tumour cells

1. In rat pituitary tumour cells (GC cells), spontaneous oscillations of the intracellular concentration of Ca2+ ([Ca2+]i) induce growth hormone (GH) secretion that is inhibited by octreotide, a somatostatin (SRIF) agonist which binds to SRIF subtype (sst) receptor 2. The effects of its functional activation on the control of [Ca2+]i were investigated using fluorimetric measurements of [Ca2+]i. 2. SRIF decreases the basal [Ca2+]i and the [Ca2+]i rise in response to forskolin (FSK) through the inhibition of L-type voltage-dependent Ca2+ channels. 3. Pretreatment with octreotide or with L-Tyr8++ Cyanamid 154806, a sst2 receptor antagonist, abolishes the SRIF-induced inhibition of [Ca2+]i. Octreotide is known to operate through agonist-induced desensitization, while the antagonist operates through receptor blockade. 4. sst1 and sst2 receptor-immunoreactivities (-IRs) are localized to cell membranes. sst2, but not sst1 receptor-IR, internalizes after cell exposure to octreotide. 5. SRIF-induced inhibition of basal [Ca2+]i or FSK-induced Ca2+ entry is blocked by pertussis toxin (PTX). 6. FSK-induced cyclic AMP accumulation is only partially decreased by SRIF or octreotide, indicating that sst2 receptors are coupled to intracellular pathways other than adenylyl cyclase (AC) inhibition. 7. In the presence of H-89, an inhibitor of cyclic AMP-dependent protein kinase (PKA), SRIF-induced inhibition of basal [Ca2+]i is still present, although reduced in amplitude. 8. SRIF inhibits [Ca2+]i by activating sst2 receptors. Inhibition of AC activity is only partly responsible for this effect, and other transduction pathways may be involved.

Brain somatostatin: a candidate inhibitory role in seizures and epileptogenesis

Recent evidence shows that neuropeptide expression in the CNS is markedly affected by seizure activity, particularly in the limbic system. Changes in neuropeptides in specific neuronal populations depend on the type and intensity of seizures and on their chronic sequelae (i.e. neurodegeneration and spontaneous convulsions). This paper reviews the effects of seizures on somatostatin-containing neurons, somatostatin mRNA and immunoreactivity, the release of this peptide and its receptor subtypes in the CNS. Differences between kindling and status epilepticus in rats are emphasized and discussed in the light of an inhibitory role of somatostatin on hippocampal excitability. Pharmacological studies show that somatostatin affects electrophysiological properties of neurons, modulates classical neurotransmission and has anticonvulsant properties in experimental models of seizures. This peptidergic system may be an interesting target for pharmacological attempts to control pathological hyperactivity in neurons, thus providing new directions for the development of novel anticonvulsant treatments.

Molecular cloning and pharmacological characterization of a somatostatin receptor subtype in the gymnotiform fish Apteronotus albifrons

The actions of the various forms of somatostatin (SRIF), including those of the tetradecapeptide SRIF(14), are mediated by specific receptors. In mammals, five subtypes of SRIF receptors, termed sst(1-5), have been cloned. Using a combination of reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction and genomic library screening in the gymnotiform fish Apteronotus albifrons, a gene encoding the first-known nonmammalian SRIF receptor has been isolated. The deduced amino acid sequence displays 59% identity with the human sst(3) receptor protein; hence, the gene is termed "Apteronotus sst(3)." The predicted protein consists of 494 amino acid residues exhibiting a putative seven-transmembrane domain topology typical of G protein-coupled receptors. A signal corresponding to the Apteronotus sst(3) receptor was detected in brain after amplification of poly(A)(+)-RNA by reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction, but not by Northern blot analysis or in situ hybridization, suggesting a low level of expression. Membranes prepared from CCL39 cells stably expressing the Apteronotus sst(3) receptor gene bound [(125)I][Leu(8),d-Trp(22), (125) I-Tyr(25)]SRIF(28) with high affinity and in a saturable manner (B(max) = 4470 fmol/mg protein; pK(D) = 10.5). SRIF(14) and various synthetic SRIF receptor agonists produced a dose-dependent inhibition of radioligand binding, with the following rank order of potency: SRIF(14) approximately SRIF(28) > BIM 23052 > octreotide > BIM 23056. Under low stringency conditions, an Apteronotus sst(3) probe hybridized to multiple DNA fragments in HindIII or EcoRI digests of A. albifrons DNA, indicating that the Apteronotus sst(3) receptor is a member of a larger family of Apteronotus SRIF receptors.

Somatostatin receptors present knowledge and future directions

Genes for five somatostatin receptor subtypes, designated sst1-5, have been cloned and shown to belong to the seven transmembrane domain receptor family. The sst2 mRNA transcript is alternatively spliced to generate two related receptor products (sst2A and sst2B) which differ in their carboxylterminal sequence whereas each of the other genes is transcribed to give a single unique receptor protein. The six sst receptor subtypes all bind SRIF14, SRIF28 and the cortistatins with high affinity but vary in their affinity for analogs, such as octreotide. Although the tissue distribution of sst mRNAs has been extensively examined, much less is known about the cellular distribution of the individual receptor proteins. Recent studies with sst subtype specific antibodies have localized individual sst receptors to specific cell types within the rat gastrointestinal tract, pancreas, pituitary and brain. Furthermore, sst receptors have recently been identified in human tumors by immunocytochemistry, providing a significantly improved method for sst receptor detection. All six sst receptor subtypes are linked to guanine nucleotide binding proteins (G proteins) and lead to inhibition of adenylyl cyclase following hormone binding. The sst receptors also regulate a variety of different effectors via G proteins, including calcium and potassium channels and serine and tyrosine phosphatases. In addition to signalling, two other processes are activated by hormone binding: receptor desensitization and receptor internalization. The extent to which these occur seems to vary for the different receptor subtypes. Recent studies have shown that the sst2A receptor is rapidly phosphorylated upon hormone binding, suggesting that this phosphorylation may be responsible for the desensitization and/or internalization of this receptor. The importance of receptor regulation in cellular responsiveness to somatostatin and for receptor detection as well as the molecular mechanisms by which these processes occur provide important areas for future investigations.

Structural and compositional determinants of cortistatin activity

Cortistatin-14 (CST-14) is a putative novel neuropeptide that shares 11 of its 14 residues with somatostatin-14 (SRIF-14), yet its effects on sleep physiology, locomotor behavior and hippocampal function are different from those of somatostatin. We studied the structural basis for cortistatin's distinct biological activities. As with SRIF-14, CST-14 does not show any preferred conformation in solution, as determined by circular dichroism and nuclear magnetic resonance. Synthetic cortistatin analogs were designed and synthesized based on the cyclic structure of octreotide. Biological assays were carried out to determine their binding affinities to five somatostatin receptors (sstl-5) and their ability to produce changes in locomotor activity and to modulate hippocampal physiology and sleep. The results show that the compound with N-terminal proline and C-terminal lysine amide exhibits cortistatin-like biological activities, including reduction of population spike amplitudes in the hippocampal CA1 region, decrease in locomotor activity and enhancement of slow-wave sleep 2. These findings suggest that both proline and lysine are necessary for cortistatin binding to its specific receptor.

Characterisation of the fish sst3 receptor, a member of the SRIF1 receptor family: atypical pharmacological features

The first cloned non-mammalian somatostatin (somatostatin release-inhibiting factor = SRIF) receptor previously obtained from the teleost fish Apteronotus albifrons and generically named somatostatin receptor 3 (fsst3), was stably expressed and characterised in Chinese hamster lung fibroblast (CCL39) cells. Radioligand binding studies were performed with four radioligands selective for SRIF receptors in CCL39 cells expressing the fsst3 receptors; [125I]LTT-SRIF28 ([Leu8, D-Trp22, 125I-Tyr25]-SRIF28), [125I]Tyr10-cortistatin, [125I]CGP 23996, and [125I]Tyr3-octreotide labelled the fsst3 receptor with high affinity (pKd values: 10.47, 10.87, 9.59 and 9.57) and in a saturable manner, but defined different Bmax values; 4500, 4000, 3400 and 1500 fmol/mg, respectively. The affinities of SRIF peptides and analogues determined for fsst3 receptors displayed the following rank order of potency: seglitide = SRIF25 > SRIF14 = SRIF28 > cortistatin 14 > BIM 23014 > RC160 = L361,301 = octreotide > or = BIM 23052 > or = L362,855 > CGP23996 > BIM 23056 > BIM 23030 = cycloantagonist > SRIF22. The pharmacological profiles determined with [125I]LTT-SRIF28, [125I]CGP 23996 and [125I]Tyr10-cortistatin correlated highly significantly (r = 0.96-0.99), whereas [125I]Tyr3-octreotide binding was rather divergent (r = 0.78-0.81). Further, [125I]Tyr3-octreotide- and [125I]CGP 23996-labelled sites showed higher affinity for the various peptides than [125I]LTT-SRIF28 and [125I]Tyr10-cortistatin-labelled sites, although there were exceptions. [125I]LTT-SRIF28-binding to fsst3 receptors and human sst1-5 receptors was compared; the fsst3 binding profile correlated better with the hsst5- than with the hsst3 receptor profile. SRIF inhibited potently forskolin-stimulated adenylate cyclase activity in fsst3 transfected CCL39 cells; this effect was blocked by pertussis toxin, suggesting coupling of the fsst3 receptor to Gialpha and/or Goalpha. [125I]LTT-SRIF28 binding was detected in fish brain, liver, heart, spleen, and stomach, but not in gut. The pharmacological profile of [125I]LTT-SRIF28-labelled sites in brain, but not in liver, correlated significantly with the recombinant fsst3 receptor, in agreement with expression of the fsst3 receptor gene found by RT-PCR in the brain. However, biphasic binding curves obtained with two SRIF-analogues in brain, as well as the distinct pharmacological profile of the liver SRIF receptor, suggest the existence of several yet to be defined SRIF receptor subtypes in fish. The present data demonstrate that the recombinantly expressed fsst3 receptor has a pharmacological profile compatible with that of a SRIF1 receptor, although the rank order of affinity of fsst3 is closer to that of hsst5 than hsst3 receptors, as may be found when comparing very distantly related species. The fsst3 receptor expressed in CCL39 cells, is negatively coupled to adenylate cyclase activity via pertussis toxin-sensitive G-proteins, like mammalian sst3 receptors. Radioligand binding performed with fish tissue suggests the presence of a native sst3 receptor in brain as well as other yet to be defined SRIF receptor subtypes.