Liver cell adenylate cyclase and beta-adrenergic receptors. Increased beta-adrenergic receptor number and responsiveness in the hypothyroid rat

Adrenergic receptors. Methods of determination and mechanisms of regulation

The radioligand binding technique has been proven useful in the study of altered responsiveness after exposure to adrenergic agents. A reduction in receptor number has generally been reported after interventions serving to increase the stimulatory input to the receptors prior to assay. Conversely a decrease in receptor stimulation has been demonstrated to induce an elevation in receptor density. These phenomena have been described for alpha- as well as for beta-adrenoceptors in various tissues under a variety of experimental conditions such as prolonged agonist exposure, chronic receptor blockade, denervation and interference with catecholamine turnover. A number of clinically relevant cardiovascular experimental models have been characterized by altered adrenoceptor densities, possibly reflecting a compensatory resetting of sympathetic tone in response to an aberrant haemodynamic pattern. The mechanisms underlying receptor density changes as those discussed have been suggested to involve an internalization process which may involve phospholipase and transglutaminase activation in the cell membrane.

Alpha1-and beta2-adrenoceptors in the human liver with mass-forming intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma: density and coupling to adenylate cyclase and phospholipase C

Besides the regulation of hepatic metabolic pathways in which adrenoceptors are mainly involved, their effect on the second messenger cAMP is thought to be related to the growth and differentiation of neoplastic cells. However, few studies have been done on the status of these structures in the human liver affected by cholangiocarcinoma (CC). Thus, in this study, changes in densities of alpha1- and beta2-adrenoceptors (alpha1-and beta2-ARs) were investigated in membranes of human liver with cholangiocarcinoma, and for comparison, in membranes of non-adjacent non-tumour liver using the potent antagonists [3H]-prazosin and [1I]-iodocyanopindolol (ICYP) respectively. In addition, the activity of membrane-bound phospholipase C (PLC) and adenylate cyclase (AC) was also studied. In CC liver, the density of alpha1-and beta2-ARs was significantly reduced, compared with non-tumour liver tissues (alpha1-ARs: 23.38+/-4.69 vs 80.35+/-10.52, P=0.0002 beta2-ARs: 14.27+/-2.93 vs 33.22+/-4.32 fmol/mg protein, P=0.03), whereas the ligand affinities (KD) remained unchanged. The beta2-selective antagonist ICI 118,551 was about 100 times more potent in inhibiting ICYP binding than the beta1-selective antagonist CGP 20712A; thus, more than 98% of the beta-ARs were of the beta2-subtypes. The AC activity upon stimulants acting on beta-AR (isoprenaline), G-protein (GTP, NaF) and AC (forskolin) was decreased in CC liver. Similarly, noradrenaline-stimulated PLC activity was significantly reduced in tumour tissues. In conclusion, in CC liver the alpha1- and beta2-ARs density was down-regulated and the neoplastic invasion blunted AC and PLC activity. These quantitative changes may help to elucidate not fully understood pathogenetic mechanisms of disturbed hepatic metabolic processes, such as hypoglycemia during cancer in human liver.

Colorectal cancer metastases affect the biochemical characteristics of the human liver beta-adrenoceptor-G-protein-adenylate cyclase system

The sympathetic-catecholamine system is involved in the regulation of hepatic metabolic pathways mainly through cAMP-linked beta2-adrenoceptors (beta2-ARs) in humans and to a lesser extent through cAMP-independent mechanisms, but no information is available about the possible biochemical changes of beta2-ARs and their signalling pathways in human colorectal cancer (CRC) and colorectal cancer hepatic metastases (CRCHM). Changes in density and distribution of beta-ARs as well as in post-receptor signalling components were studied in membranes of human liver with CRCHM, and for comparison, in membranes of nonadjacent, non-metastatic human liver (NA-NM) obtained from 13 patients, using binding and competition binding studies. Studies were also carried out using normal and cancerous human colon tissues. In CRCHM, the density of beta-ARs (B(max)) was significantly reduced, compared to NA-NM liver tissues (40.09+/-2.83 vs. 23.09+/-3.24 fmol/mg protein; P<0.001). A similar decrease in the beta-AR density was observed in the colon with primary colorectal cancer compared to healthy colon (37.6+/-2.2 vs. 23.8+/-3.5 fmol/mg protein), whereas the affinity of ICYP binding to the receptor remained unaffected. Desensitized beta-ARs were uncoupled from stimulatory G-protein (G(S)), as total density of beta-adrenoceptors in the high affinity state was significantly reduced. Concomitantly, CRCHM elicited decrease in the catalytic adenylate cyclase (AC) activity (cAMP formation) in response to isoproterenol plus GTP or forskolin or NaF. In NA-NM and CRCHM liver, the inhibition-concentration curves of ICI 118.551 showed the presence of a homogeneous population of the beta2-AR subtypes. Neither the binding patterns nor the inhibition constant (K(i)) of ICI 118.551 were altered in CRCHM. In CRCHM, the hepatic beta-AR-G-protein(s)-AC signalling system was markedly impaired, thus, these changes may well influence beta-AR-mediated functions in both organs.

Akt mediates sequestration of the beta(2)-adrenergic receptor in response to insulin

The counterregulation of catecholamine action by insulin includes insulin-stimulated sequestration of the beta(2)-adrenergic receptor. Herein we examined the signaling downstream of insulin receptor activation, focusing upon the role of 1-phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase and the serine-threonine protein kinase Akt (also known as protein kinase B) in the internalization of beta(2)-adrenergic receptors. Inhibition of 1-phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase by LY294002 blocks insulin-induced sequestration of the beta(2)-adrenergic receptor, implicating Akt in downstream signaling to the beta(2)-adrenergic receptor. Phosphorylation studies of the C-terminal cytoplasmic domain of the beta(2)-adrenergic receptor by Akt in vitro identified Ser(345) and Ser(346) within a consensus motif for Akt phosphorylation. Double mutation (i.e. S345A/S346A) within this motif abolishes insulin counterregulation of beta-adrenergic stimulation of cyclic AMP accumulation as well as insulin-stimulated sequestration. Furthermore, expression of constitutively activated Akt (T308D/S473D) mimics insulin action on cyclic AMP responses and beta(2)-adrenergic receptor internalization. Expression of the dominant-negative version of Akt (K179A/T308A/S473A), in contrast, abolishes both insulin counterregulation of the cyclic AMP response as well as insulin-stimulated sequestration of the beta(2)-adrenergic receptor. The action of the serine-threonine protein kinase Akt in insulin counterregulation mirrors the central role of protein kinase A in beta-agonist-induced desensitization.

Galpha i2 enhances in vivo activation of and insulin signaling to GLUT4

Heterotrimeric G-proteins, including Galpha(i2), have been implicated in modulating glucose disposal and insulin signaling. This cross-talk between G-protein-coupled and tyrosine kinase-coupled signaling pathways is a focal point for the study of integration of cell signaling. Herein we study the role of Galpha(i2) in modulating glucose transport, focusing upon linkages to insulin signaling. Utilizing mice harboring a transgene that directs the expression of a constitutively activated, GTPase-deficient mutant of Galpha(i2) (Q205L) in adipose tissue, skeletal muscle, and liver, we demonstrate that Galpha(i2) regulates the translocation of the insulin-sensitive GLUT4 glucose transporter in skeletal muscle and adipose tissue. The expression of Q205L Galpha(i2) increased glucose transport and translocation of GLUT4 to the plasma membrane in vivo in the absence of insulin stimulation. Adipocytes from the Q205L Galpha(i2) mice displayed enhanced insulin-stimulated glucose transport and GLUT4 translocation to the plasma membrane to levels nearly twice that of those from littermate controls. Phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase and Akt activities were constitutively activated in tissues expressing the Q205L Galpha(i2). Studies of adipocytes from wild-type mice displayed short term activation of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase, Akt, and GLUT4 translocation in response to activation of Galpha(i2) by lysophosphatidic acid, a response sensitive to pertussis toxin. These data provide an explanation for the marked glucose tolerance of the Q205L Galpha(i2) mice and demonstrate a linkage between Galpha(i2) and GLUT4 translocation.

G protein signaling from activated rat frizzled-1 to the beta-catenin-Lef-Tcf pathway

The frizzled receptors, which mediate development and display seven hydrophobic, membrane-spanning segments, are cell membrane-localized. We constructed a chimeric receptor with the ligand-binding and transmembrane segments from the beta2-adrenergic receptor (beta2AR) and the cytoplasmic domains from rat Frizzled-1 (Rfz1). Stimulation of mouse F9 clones expressing the chimera (beta2AR-Rfz1) with the beta-adrenergic agonist isoproterenol stimulated stabilization of beta-catenin, activation of a beta-catenin-sensitive promoter, and formation of primitive endoderm. The response was blocked by inactivation of pertussis toxin-sensitive, heterotrimeric guanine nucleotide-binding proteins (G proteins) and by depletion of Galphaq and Galphao. Thus, G proteins are elements of Wnt/Frizzled-1 signaling to the beta-catenin-lymphoid-enhancer factor (LEF)-T cell factor (Tcf) pathway.

c-Src tyrosine kinase binds the beta 2-adrenergic receptor via phospho-Tyr-350, phosphorylates G-protein-linked receptor kinase 2, and mediates agonist-induced receptor desensitization

The nonreceptor tyrosine kinase Src has been implicated in the switching of signaling of beta2-adrenergic receptors from adenylylcyclase coupling to the mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway. In the current work, we demonstrate that Src plays an active role in the agonist-induced desensitization of beta2-adrenergic receptors. Both the expression of dominant-negative Src and treatment with the 4-amine-5-(4-chlorophenyl)-7-(t-butyl)pyrazolo[3,4-d]pyrimidine (PP2) inhibitor of Src kinase activity blocks agonist-induced desensitization. Agonist triggers tyrosine phosphorylation of the beta2-adrenergic receptor and recruitment and activation of Src. Because phosphorylation of the Tyr-350 residue of the beta2-adrenergic receptor creates a conditional, canonical SH2-binding site on the receptor, we examined the effect of the Y350F mutation on Src phosphorylation, Src recruitment, and desensitization. Mutant beta2-adrenergic receptors with a Tyr-to-Phe substitution at Tyr-350 do not display agonist-induced desensitization, Src recruitment, or Src activation. Downstream of binding to the receptor, Src phosphorylates and activates G-protein-linked receptor kinase 2 (GRK2), a response obligate for agonist-induced desensitization. Constitutively active Src increases GRK phosphorylation, whereas either expression of dominant-negative Src or treatment with the PP2 inhibitor abolishes tyrosine phosphorylation of GRK and desensitization. Thus, in addition to its role in signal switching to the mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway, Src recruitment to the beta2-adrenergic receptor and activation are obligate for normal agonist-induced desensitization.

Effect of hypothyroidism on G protein-coupled receptor kinase 2 expression levels in rat liver, lung, and heart

GRK2 is a member of the G protein-coupled receptor kinase family that phosphorylates the activated form of beta-adrenergic and other G protein-coupled receptors and plays an important role in their desensitization and modulation. Alterations in thyroid hormone levels have been reported to lead to important changes in adrenergic receptor responsiveness and signaling in a variety of tissues. In this context, we have explored the effects of experimental hypothyroidism on GRK2 protein levels in rat heart, lung, and liver using a specific antibody. Hypothyroid animals show significant up-regulation ( approximately 50% increase compared with controls) in GRK2 levels in heart and lung at 60 days after birth, whereas a 50% reduction is detected in the liver at this stage. These alterations are selective, as beta-adrenergic receptors or other G protein-coupled receptor regulatory proteins, such as G protein-coupled receptor kinase 5 or beta-arrestin-1, display a different pattern of expression changes in the hypothyroid animals. The reported changes in GRK2 levels and in the receptor/kinase ratio predict alterations in adrenergic receptor desensitization and signal transduction efficacy consistent with those observed in thyroid disorders, thus suggesting a relevant role for the modulation of GRK2 expression in this physiopathological condition.

Thyroid hormone and dehydroepiandrosterone permit gluconeogenic hormone responses in hepatocytes

The importance of the sn-glycerol- 3-phosphate (G-3-P) electron transfer shuttle in hormonal regulation of gluconeogenesis was examined in hepatocytes from rats with decreased mitochondrial G-3-P dehydrogenase activity (thyroidectomized) or increased G-3-P dehydrogenase activity [triiodothyronine (T(3)) or dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) treated]. Rates of glucose formation from 10 mM lactate, 10 mM pyruvate, or 2.5 mM dihydroxyacetone were somewhat less in hypothyroid cells than in cells from normal rats but gluconeogenic responses to calcium addition and to norepinephrine (NE), glucagon (G), or vasopressin (VP) were similar to the responses observed in cells from normal rats. However, with 2. 5 mM glycerol or 2.5 mM sorbitol, substrates that must be oxidized in the cytosol before conversion to glucose, basal gluconeogenesis was not appreciably altered by hypothyroidism but responses to calcium and to the calcium-mobilizing hormones were abolished. Injecting thyroidectomized rats with T(3) 2 days before preparing the hepatocytes greatly enhanced gluconeogenesis from glyc erol and restored the response to Ca(2+) and gluconeogenic hormones. Feeding dehydroepiandrosterone for 6 days depressed gluconeogenesis from lactate or pyruvate but substantially increased glucose production from glycerol in euthyroid cells and restored responses to Ca(2+) in hypothyroid cells metabolizing glycerol. Euthyroid cells metabolizing glycerol or sorbitol use the G-3-P and malate/aspartate shuttles to oxidize excess NADH generated in the cytosol. The transaminase inhibitor aminooxyacetate (AOA) decreased gluconeogenesis from glycerol 40%, but had little effect on responses to Ca(2+) and NE. However, in hypothyroid cells, with minimal G-3-P dehydrogenase, AOA decreased gluconeogenesis from glycerol more than 90%. Thus, the basal rate of gluconeogenesis from glycerol in the euthyroid cells is only partly dependent on electron transport from cytosol to mitochondria via the malate/aspartate shuttle and almost completely dependent in the hypothyroid state, and the hormone enhancement of the rate in euthyroid cells involves primarily the G-3-P cycle. These data are consistent with Ca(2+) being mobilized by gluconeogenic hormones and G-3-P dehydrogenase being activated by Ca(2+) so as to permit it to transfer reducing equivalents from the cytosol to the mitochondria.

Mutations in the c-erbA beta 1 gene: do they underlie euthyroid fibromyalgia?

Fibromyalgia, a chronic condition of widespread pain, stiffness, and fatigue, has proven unresponsive to drugs, the use of which is based on the 'serotonin-deficiency hypothesis'. An alternative hypothesis-failed transcription regulation by thyroid hormone-can explain the serotonin deficiency and other objective findings and symptoms of euthyroid fibromyalgia. Virtually every feature of fibromyalgia corresponds to signs or symptoms associated with failed transcription regulation by thyroid hormone. In hypothyroid fibromyalgia, failed transcription regulation would result from thyroid-hormone deficiency. In euthyroid fibromyalgia, failed transcription regulation may result from low-affinity thyroid hormone receptors coded by a mutated c-erbA beta 1 gene, yielding partial peripheral resistance to thyroid hormone. The hypothesis of this paper is that, in euthyroid fibromyalgia, a mutant c-erbA beta 1 gene (or alternately, the c-erbA alpha 1 gene) results in low-affinity thyroid-hormone receptors that prevent normal thyroid hormone regulation of transcription. As in hypothyroidism, this would cause a shift toward alpha-adrenergic dominance and increases in both cyclic adenosine 3'-5'-phosphate phosphodiesterase and inhibitory Gi proteins. The result would be tissue-specific hypothyroid-like symptoms despite normal circulating thyroid-hormone levels.

DNA elements and protein factors involved in the transcription of the beta 2-adrenergic receptor gene in rat liver. The negative regulatory role of C/EBP alpha

Primer extension and RNase protection analyses of the rat beta 2-adrenergic receptor (beta 2AR) gene identify two transcription start points at -64 and -220 nt, respectively. Transient transfections of putative promoter/pCAT constructs into DDT1 MF-2 cells indicate that fragments -36 to -100 (PI) and -186 to -312 (P2) are sufficient to promote transcription, whereas -911 to -1122 contains a negative regulatory element(s). RNase protection analysis of the 3' untranslated region (3'-UTR) indicates the presence of two transcripts with 3'-UTR of 111 and 604 nt exclusive of the poly(A+) tails. Northern blots of beta 2AR mRNA using full-length and partial cDNA probes indicate that a major 2.2 kb and a minor 1.6 kb species arise from the use of alternative promoters as well as different polyadenylation signals. DNase I footprinting and DNA mobility shift assays (DMSA) using rat liver nuclear extracts identify a number of transcription factors binding to sequence elements within or upstream from P1 and P2, including Spl, CRE, CPl, AP-2, NF-1, NF-kappa B, and C/EBP. Supershift assays using antibodies against C/EBP alpha and C/EBP beta and mutational analyses indicate that the protein binding to the C/EBP consensus recognition site at -925 to -933 is C/EBP alpha. The activity of promoter/CAT constructs containing the C/EBP recognition site is significantly decreased by cotransfection of C/EBP alpha but not C/EBP alpha but not C/EBP beta into either DDT1 MF-2 cells or primary rat hepatocytes. Partial hepatectomy causes a transient decrease in C/EBP alpha, as measured by DMSA, and an increase in beta 2 AR mRNA levels and rate of transcription in the remnant liver. Thus, derepression via C/EBP alpha is likely involved in the up-regulation of beta 2AR in the regenerating rat liver.

The involvement of the stimulatory G protein in sexual dimorphism of beta-adrenergic receptor-mediated functions in rat liver

In rat hepatocytes, beta-adrenergic receptor (beta-AR)-mediated cAMP generation was found to be higher in the female than in the male. As compared to the male, the number of beta-AR, detected by [125I]iodocyanopindolol, was elevated in the female. In agonist competition experiments, the proportion of beta-AR in the high-affinity state was promoted in the female than in the male. The alpha subunit of the stimulatory G protein (Gs alpha) was quantified using ADP-ribosylation catalyzed by cholera toxin. The amount of Gs alpha, both small, 42 kDa (Gs alpha S), and large, 47 kDa (Gs alpha L), forms increased in parallel with enhancement of catecholamine-sensitive adenylate cyclase activity in the female. The female showed a disproportionate increase in Gs alpha L, which is preferentially coupled to beta-AR, compared with Gs alpha S. In addition, 17 beta-estradiol facilitated isoproterenol-induced cAMP generation in both male and female rats, whereas castration or testosterone had no effect on this response. It is proposed that the cellular sites for sexual dimorphism in hepatic beta-adrenergic functions are the coupling state of beta-AR to Gs and the amount of Gs alpha as well as the level of beta-AR.

Influence of aging on the beta- and glucagon-receptor-mediated glycogenolysis in rat hepatocytes

The influence of aging on beta-receptor and glucagon-receptor control of glycogenolysis was investigated in rat hepatocytes. The beta-receptor-induced glucose output was detectable only in senescent rats, was partly dependent on extracellular Ca2+, and was inhibited by 4 beta-phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA), insulin, and the Ca(2+)-antagonists, verapamil and nifedipine. Chelation of extracellular Ca2+ potentiated the effect of nifedipine only. In contrast, glucagon-stimulated glycogenolysis, similar in mature and senescent rats, was independent on extracellular Ca2+ and was unaffected by PMA. Verapamil, in senescent rats only, and nifedipine, in mature and senescent rats, inhibited glucagon-stimulated glucose output only in the presence of Ca2+. Insulin inhibited glucagon-induced glucose output, irrespective of the age of the rat and the presence of Ca2+. We conclude that the beta-receptor component in the adrenergic regulation of glycogenolysis in senescent rats consists of a major Ca(2+)-independent and a minor Ca(2+)-dependent part, displaying different sensitivity towards protein kinase C (PKC), Ca(2+)-antagonists, and insulin. Aging does not change the capacity of glucagon to induce a full glycogenolytic response in the absence of extracellular Ca2+; Ca(2+)-influx, however, seems to be involved when extracellular Ca2+ is present, and this sensitivity is increased on aging.

Hepatocyte homologous beta 2-adrenergic desensitization is associated with a decrease in number of plasma membrane beta 2-adrenoceptors

Preincubation of rat hepatocytes with isoproterenol induces homologous beta-adrenergic desensitization evidenced both in whole cells (cyclic AMP accumulation) and membranes (adenylyl cyclase activity). This desensitization is associated with and quantitatively similar to a loss of beta 2-adrenoceptors from the plasma membrane. Desensitization did not alter the affinities of isoproterenol for the [125I]iodocyanopindolol binding sites nor reduce the ability of guanine nucleotides to modulate agonist affinity, i.e., the receptors that remain in the surface of plasma membrane after desensitization (approximately 50%) retain their functional integrity. When membranes from isoproterenol-desensitized hepatocytes were treated with alkaline phosphatase, no attenuation of the desensitization was observed. Cholera toxin-catalyzed ADP-ribosylation was not decreased but rather slightly increased in membranes from desensitized cells as compared to the controls. Our data indicate that in hepatocytes, a loss of beta 2-adrenoceptors from the plasma membrane is closely associated to the homologous desensitization induced by isoproterenol.

Rapid inverse changes in alpha 1B- and beta 2-adrenergic receptors and gene transcripts in acutely isolated rat liver cells

In vitro incubation of hepatocytes acutely isolated from adult male rats leads to a rapid conversion of the adrenergic activation of glycogenolysis from an alpha 1-receptor (alpha 1AR) to a beta 2-receptor (beta 2AR) mediated response within 4 h. In order to understand the underlying mechanism, we examined time-dependent changes in alpha 1- and beta 2-adrenergic activation of glycogenolysis and second messenger systems, the cellular density and affinity of alpha 1AR and beta 2AR, and the steady state levels of alpha 1BAR and beta 2AR mRNAs. Incubation of hepatocytes for 4 h resulted in a decrease in phosphorylase activation and inositol 1,4,5 trisphosphate accumulation in response to phenylephrine, a 40% decrease in alpha 1AR density, and a 70% decrease in alpha 1BAR mRNA levels. Incubation of hepatocytes for 4 h also resulted in the emergence of a phosphorylase response to isoproterenol, an increase in isoproterenol-induced but not in glucagon- or forskolin-induced cAMP accumulation, no significant change in beta 2AR density, and a twofold increase in beta 2AR mRNA levels. Exposure of cells to cycloheximide, 2 microM throughout the 4 h incubation, prevented the emergence of the phosphorylase response to isoproterenol and reduced beta 2AR densities, while the decrease in alpha 1AR density was not affected and the decrease in phosphorylase activation by phenylephrine was attenuated. The results indicate that dissociation of rat liver cells triggers a rapidly developing decrease in alpha 1BAR mRNA and increase in beta 2AR mRNA levels and corresponding inverse changes in the synthesis of alpha 1BAR and beta 2AR which account, at least in part, for the rapid conversion from alpha 1- to beta 2-adrenergic glycogenolysis.

Modulation of Gs activity by phorbol myristate acetate in rat hepatocytes

Activation of protein kinase C promotes heterologous desensitization of hepatic adenylate cyclase. The basis for this desensitization was explored by use of a strategy with several independent approaches. Although not influencing the amount of forskolin-stimulated adenylate cyclase activity (catalyst), treatment with phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA) decreased adenylate cyclase activation in response to either sodium fluoride or guanylyl imidodiphosphate [Gpp(NH)p]. Adenosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate (cAMP) accumulation in cholera toxin-treated hepatocytes and both the basal and GTP-stimulated adenylate cyclase activity of membranes from toxin-treated cells displayed a marked reduction in response to PMA. The ability of cholate extracts of hepatocyte membranes to reconstitute beta-adrenergic-stimulated adenylate cyclase activity of membrane of S49 mouse lymphoma cyc- cells was reduced by treatment with PMA. Cholera toxin-catalyzed labeling of Gs alpha-subunits was likewise diminished by phorbol ester treatment. Immunoblots of membranes from control or PMA-treated hepatocytes showed no difference in the amount of Gs alpha. Immunoprecipitation studies failed to detect phosphorylation of this G protein alpha-subunit. The data demonstrate that PMA induces an alteration in the functional status of Gs without altering the amount of this transmembrane signaling element. The alteration in Gs function may play a significant role in heterologous desensitization.

Differences in the accessibility of the beta-adrenergic receptor in isolated hepatocytes from foetal and adult rats

Beta-receptor number (measured by [3H]-CGP 12 177 binding) and beta-adrenergic response (measured by isoproterenol stimulated glucose liberation and isoproterenol stimulated adenylate cyclase activity) were compared in hepatocytes isolated from foetal (on day 22 of gestation), adult female and adult male rats. Beta-receptor numbers in crude membrane preparations of hepatocytes from adult female and adult male rats were found to be nearly equal (15.5 and 15.1 fmol/mg), but in crude membrane preparations of foetal rats beta-adrenergic receptor number was significantly higher (34.3 fmol/mg). Determination of number of beta-adrenergic surface receptors of intact hepatocytes showed relative high values in foetal rats (about 22,000/cell) and adult female rats (about 20,000/cell), but in male rats the number was less (about 6500/cell). Glucose liberation was stimulated by isoproterenol to the same extent in hepatocytes isolated from adult female and foetal rats (about 150% over basal), whereas no effect was found in hepatocytes isolated from adult male rats. Dose-response curves showed that in foetal rat hepatocytes glucose release was already increased by 10(-8) M isoproterenol, whereas in female rat hepatocytes at least 10(-6) M isoproterenol was required. Adenylate cyclase was stimulated by isoproterenol in lysates of hepatocytes from adult female rats by about 180% and from foetal rats by about 250%. No effects were observed using lysates of hepatocytes from adult male rats. We interpret the observed differences of beta-adrenergic responses between adult female and male rats as being primarily caused by different accessibility of the beta-receptor to the beta-agonist isoproterenol in intact hepatocytes.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Alterations in vasopressin and angiotensin II receptors and responses during culture of rat liver cells

Vasopressin and angiotensin II binding and responses were studied in hepatocytes in primary culture for 4 h and 24 h. After 24 h of culture, angiotensin II was completely ineffective in elevating cytosolic [Ca2+], whereas the maximum [Ca2+] response to vasopressin was decreased by 66% and the sensitivity to the hormone was decreased approx. 20-fold compared with values after 4 h of culture. The dissociation constant (KD) for vasopressin binding to the cells was not significantly changed during 24 h of culture, but the Bmax was decreased by 63% compared with 4 h of culture. There was also no change in the KD for angiotensin II binding from 4 h to 24 h, but the Bmax was decreased by 90%. After 24 h of culture, there was no change in the plasma membrane concentration of phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate or in the basal cell concentration of inositol trisphosphate. However, the trisphosphate did not increase with 100 nM angiotensin II and the response to 100 nM vasopressin was reduced by 66% compared with that at 4 h. The effect of guanosine 5'-(3-O-thiol) triphosphate on the polyphosphoinositide phospholipase C activity of liver cell plasma membranes was also measured. There was no decrease in the degree of stimulation of the phospholipase by this nucleotide after 24 h of culture. It is concluded that the loss of vasopressin and angiotensin II responses in cultured liver cells is due in part to changes in receptors and also in their coupling to a guanine nucleotide binding protein.

Sex difference in adrenergic receptor-mediated glycogenolysis in rat livers

Catecholamine-induced stimulation of hepatic glycogenolysis in male and female rats was studied by detecting the cytosolic free Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i), cAMP generation and adrenergic receptor function. Increase in alpha 1-adrenergic receptor-mediated [Ca2+]i and beta-adrenergic receptor-mediated cAMP generation were examined using isolated hepatocytes. No difference was found in the alpha 1-adrenergic receptor-mediated response of [Ca2+]i in fura-2-loaded hepatocytes between males and females, while epinephrine-induced cAMP accumulation in hepatocytes was about 3-fold higher in females. The alpha 1- and beta-adrenergic receptor properties of the plasma membrane were evaluated by ligand binding studies using [3H]prazosin (alpha 1-adrenergic antagonist) and [125I]iodocyanopindolol (beta-adrenergic antagonist); and little sex difference was found in either affinity or the number of binding sites of [3H]prazosin and [125I]iodocyanopindolol. Activation of adenylate cyclase by forskolin and GTP-gamma-S was also similar for both sexes. These results suggest that the sex difference of beta-adrenergic response is due to a difference in the guanine nucleotide regulatory binding proteins (G proteins) and/or beta-adrenergic receptor-Gs protein (the stimulatory G protein of adenylate cyclase) coupling ability.

Hepatocyte beta-adrenergic responsiveness and guanine nucleotide-binding regulatory proteins

Hepatocytes isolated from hypothyroid, adrenalectomized, or partially hepatectomized rats display an enhanced beta-adrenergic responsiveness as compared with cells from control animals. The enhanced beta-adrenergic responsiveness is evidenced by both increased ureagenesis and adenosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate (cAMP) accumulation in response to isoproterenol. The role of stimulatory guanine nucleotide-binding protein (Gs) and inhibitory guanine nucleotide-binding protein (Gi) in the enhanced responsiveness was studied. It was observed, contrary to what would have been anticipated, that the level of Gs [as reflected by cholera toxin-catalyzed ADP ribosylation, 5'-guanosine gamma-thiotriphosphate (GTP gamma S)-stimulated adenylate cyclase activity, and a functional reconstitution assay] was decreased in liver membranes from adrenalectomized and partially hepatectomized rats as compared with the controls. Furthermore, the level of Gi was increased in these conditions as reflected by pertussis toxin-catalyzed ADP ribosylation. The data suggest that changes in beta-adrenergic receptor levels rather than the levels of guanine nucleotide-binding (G) regulatory proteins predominate in regulation of hepatic beta-adrenergic responses by hypothyroidism, adrenalectomy, or partial hepatectomy.

Altered thyroid status regulates the adipocyte A1 adenosine receptor-adenylate cyclase system

To assess the effect of hyperthyroidism on the adenosine receptor-adenylate cyclase system in adipocytes, membranes from hyperthyroid and control rats were prepared. Rats were rendered hyperthyroid by five days of injection with triiodothyronine (T3). Basal as well as isoproterenol-, sodium fluoride-, forskolin- and manganese (Mn++)-stimulated adenylate cyclase activities are attenuated 20-30% in adipocyte membranes from hyperthyroid animals. There is a greater inhibition of total adenylate cyclase activity in response to R-PIA, A1 selective inhibitory agonist, in membranes from hyperthyroid animals. However, on a percentage basis, R-PIA is equally effective at inhibiting adenylate cyclase activity in control and treated membranes. Using antagonist radioligands, [3H]XAC (A1 receptor) and [125I]CYP (beta-adrenergic receptor), no significant alteration in receptor number is observed in hyperthyroidism. In addition, no alteration in Gi protein-A1 receptor coupling is noted as exhibited by R-PIA competition curves. These findings suggest hyperthyroidism most likely results in a decrease of the catalytic moiety of adenylate cyclase either quantitatively or functionally.

The impact of hypothyroidism and thyroxine replacement on the expression of hepatic alpha 1-, alpha 2- and beta-adrenergic receptors in rat liver plasma membranes

1. Liver plasma membranes were isolated from control, propylthiouracil-induced hypothyroid and thyroxine-replaced rats; relative specific activities of 5'-nucleotidase were found to be similar, 5.6-6.1, demonstrating that comparable purity levels were achieved. 2. Radioligand binding studies indicated that hepatic alpha 1-, alpha 2- and beta-adrenergic receptor binding to control liver membranes was 1963.23 +/- 59.34, 77.64 +/- 2.20 and 111.18 +/- 11.04 fmol.mg-1, respectively. 3. Hypothyroidism induced a 67% and 54% decrease, respectively, in hepatic alpha 1- and alpha 2-adrenergic receptor binding with no change in beta-adrenergic receptor binding. 4. Thyroxine replacement achieved an 85% and 100% restoration, respectively, in hepatic alpha 1- and alpha 2-adrenergic receptor expression with no effect on the beta-adrenergic receptor.

Comparative study of the developmental patterns of vasopressin, glucagon, angiotensin II, and alpha 1-adrenergic receptors in the liver of developing and adult hypothyroid rats

The effects of propylthiouracil (PTU) treatment on vasopressin, angiotensin II, glucagon and alpha 1-adrenergic receptors in both developing and adult rats were studied in liver membrane preparations by measuring the binding of the following ligands: [3H][8-lysine]vasopressin, [3H]Sar-angiotensin II, [125I]glucagon and [3H]prazosin, and in the case of glucagon, by measuring adenylate cyclase activation. Whatever the ligand used, in young as well as in adult animals, PTU treatment led to a similar reduction (about 50%) in the maximal number of binding sites (Bmax), without significant changes in the apparent dissociation constant (KD) of labeled hormone for its specific receptor. In normal adult animals, thyroxine treatment, i.e. hyperthyroidism, had an opposite effect on the Bmax (25-50% increase), without changes in the KD. In developing PTU-treated rats, the abnormalities completely disappeared after therapy with increasing physiological doses of thyroxine; consequently they were directly related to thyroid deficiency and not to toxic effects of PTU. Moreover, the abnormalities resulting from induced hypothyroidism were reversible. In developing and adult hypothyroid rats, neither basal, NaF-, nor Gpp(NH)p-stimulated adenylate cyclase activities were significantly affected. Glucagon-sensitive adenylate cyclase activity seemed to be slightly increased (by about 15%), without changes in the apparent activation constant (Kact). These results are considered in parallel with findings on plasmatic glucagon and vasopressin levels, compared with similar previous reports related to renal vasopressin receptors, and discussed with respect to unpublished observations concerning hepatic responsiveness to glycogenolytic hormones in young and adult rats with induced hypothyroidism.

Hormonal control of glucose production and pyruvate kinase activity in isolated rat liver cells: influence of hypothyroidism

Hormonal control of glucose production and of L-pyruvate kinase activity has been measured in isolated liver cells from fed control and thyroidectomized rats. In hypothyroid rats, sensitivity to isoproterenol as measured by these parameters was increased: the apparent K0.5 for isoproterenol-induced stimulation of glucose production decreased from 8.0 +/- 3 X 10(-6) M in control rats to 2.0 +/- 0.2 X 10(-8) M in hypothyroid rats (P less than 0.001) and the apparent K0.5 for inhibition of L-pyruvate kinase was 5 +/- 2 X 10(-7) M vs. 7 +/- 2 X 10(-9) M (P less than 0.001) in control and thyroidectomized rats, respectively. Utilisation of specific adrenergic antagonists confirmed increased beta-adrenergic responsiveness in hypothyroid rats. This phenomenon was not reversed by 3 days of T3 treatment (10 micrograms/100 g body weight). Sensitivity to the alpha-agonist was unchanged by thyroid status. Stimulation of glucose production and inhibition of L-pyruvate kinase activity by glucagon and their reversal by insulin were not affected by hypothyroidism. The dose-response curve to vasopressin and its maximal effect measured on stimulation of glucose production were unchanged in thyroidectomized rats. Thus, hypothyroidism produces a specific enhancement of liver beta-adrenergic responsiveness without affecting sensitivity to glucagon, insulin and vasopressin.

The relationship between beta-adrenoceptor regulation and beta-adrenergic responsiveness in hepatocytes. Studies on acquisition, desensitization and resensitization of isoproterenol-sensitive adenylate cyclase in primary culture

The role of beta-adrenoceptor regulation in the mechanisms controlling beta-adrenergic responsiveness in hepatocytes was explored, using primary monolayer cultures. When plated in vitro, these cells gradually acquire a strong catecholamine-sensitive adenylate cyclase activity and an enhanced ability to bind the beta-adrenoceptor ligand [125I]iodocyanopindolol (125ICYP). Examination of the time course showed that the increase in the number of 125ICYP binding sites was detectable within 1-2 h of culturing and slightly preceded the elevation of isoproterenol-responsive activity. Then the responsiveness rose steeply and between about 5-24 h it closely followed the increase in beta-receptor binding. Addition of isoproterenol (10 microM) to cells after 20 h of culturing caused a rapid homologous desensitization of the adenylate cyclase (50% after about 5 min). This was paralleled by a down-regulation of beta-adrenoceptors measured both in membrane particles and in total cell lysates. Removal of isoproterenol led to a resensitization of the adenylate cyclase, which was rapid and protein-synthesis-independent after a brief (10-min) desensitization, or slow and cycloheximide-sensitive after prolonged (4-h) exposure to the agonist. In both cases an up-regulation of the 125ICYP binding paralleled the recovery from refractoriness. In contrast, no concurring changes in 125ICYP binding were measured when the beta-adrenoceptor-linked adenylate cyclase activity was enhanced by pretreatment with pertussin toxin (islet-activating protein, IAP) or was desensitized by exposure of the cells to glucagon or 8-bromo-cAMP; however, these modulations of the adenylate cyclase were nonselective, since the pretreatments with IAP, glucagon or 8-bromo-cAMP affected both isoproterenol-sensitive and glucagon-sensitive activities. The results suggest that, in hepatocytes, regulation at the beta-adrenoceptor level is a major determinant for both short-term and long-term selective changes of the beta-adrenergic responsiveness.

Effects of glucagon on cAMP accumulation and ketogenesis in hepatocytes from euthyroid and hypothyroid rats

The resistance to the effects of glucagon was studied in isolated hepatocytes prepared from male rats treated with 6N-propyl-2-thiouracil (PTU). Incorporation of [14C]oleate into ketone bodies in response to various concentrations of glucagon (10(-5) to 10(-10) M) was reduced in hepatocytes from hypothyroid rats compared with the euthyroid group. The reduced sensitivity to the effects of glucagon on ketogenesis after treatment with PTU was associated with a reduced ability of those hepatocytes to maintain cyclic adenosine-3',5'-monophosphate (cAMP) at levels required to stimulate ketogenesis. The concentration of cAMP in response to glucagon (10(-5) to 10(-10) M) was diminished in hepatocytes from hypothyroid rats, compared with those from euthyroid animals.

Mechanisms of hormonal regulation of hepatic glucose metabolism

Acute hormonal regulation of liver carbohydrate metabolism mainly involves changes in the cytosolic levels of cAMP and Ca2+. Epinephrine, acting through beta 2-adrenergic receptors, and glucagon activate adenylate cyclase in the liver plasma membrane through a mechanism involving a guanine nucleotide-binding protein that is stimulatory to the enzyme. The resulting accumulation of cAMP leads to activation of cAMP-dependent protein kinase, which, in turn, phosphorylates many intracellular enzymes involved in the regulation of glycogen metabolism, gluconeogenesis, and glycolysis. These are (1) phosphorylase b kinase, which is activated and, in turn, phosphorylates and activates phosphorylase, the rate-limiting enzyme for glycogen breakdown; (2) glycogen synthase, which is inactivated and is rate-controlling for glycogen synthesis; (3) pyruvate kinase, which is inactivated and is an important regulatory enzyme for glycolysis; and (4) the 6-phosphofructo-2-kinase/fructose 2,6-bisphosphatase bifunctional enzyme, phosphorylation of which leads to decreased formation of fructose 2,6-P2, which is an activator of 6-phosphofructo-1-kinase and an inhibitor of fructose 1,6-bisphosphatase, both of which are important regulatory enzymes for glycolysis and gluconeogenesis. In addition to rapid effects of glucagon and beta-adrenergic agonists to increase hepatic glucose output by stimulating glycogenolysis and gluconeogenesis and inhibiting glycogen synthesis and glycolysis, these agents produce longer-term stimulatory effects on gluconeogenesis through altered synthesis of certain enzymes of gluconeogenesis/glycolysis and amino acid metabolism. For example, P-enolpyruvate carboxykinase is induced through an effect at the level of transcription mediated by cAMP-dependent protein kinase. Tyrosine amino-transferase, serine dehydratase, tryptophan oxygenase, and glucokinase are also regulated by cAMP, in part at the level of specific messenger RNA synthesis. The sympathetic nervous system and its neurohumoral agonists epinephrine and norepinephrine also rapidly alter hepatic glycogen metabolism and gluconeogenesis acting through alpha 1-adrenergic receptors. The primary response to these agonists is the phosphodiesterase-mediated breakdown of the plasma membrane polyphosphoinositide phosphatidylinositol 4,5-P2 to inositol 1,4,5-P3 and 1,2-diacylglycerol. This involves a guanine nucleotide-binding protein that is different from those involved in the regulation of adenylate cyclase. Inositol 1,4,5-P3 acts as an intracellular messenger for Ca2+ mobilization by releasing Ca2+ from the endoplasmic reticulum.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)

Large-scale purification of beta-adrenergic receptors from mammalian cells in culture

S49 Mouse lymphoma wild-type cells were grown in spinner cultures of 40 liters to a density of approximately 3 million cells/ml. Growth of cells to high density (2-3 million cells/ml) required that the cell suspensions be bubbled with oxygen. Cells from 40 liter cultures were collected by centrifugation and disrupted by nitrogen cavitation. Highly purified membranes (0.35 g membrane protein) that were rich in beta-adrenergic receptor (0.4-0.7 pmol receptor/mg membrane protein) were prepared by differential centrifugation and then solubilized with the plant glycoside, digitonin (1.5% digitonin at 3 mg of membrane protein/ml). Beta-adrenergic receptors were isolated and purified by sequential affinity chromatography, ion-exchange chromatography, and steric exclusion high-pressure liquid chromatography. The extract was subjected to affinity chromatography on a derivatized Sepharose-4B CL column to which the high-affinity, beta-adrenergic antagonist (-)alprenolol had been immobilized. Following extensive washing, the receptor bound to this matrix was eluted using a 0-100 micromolar linear gradient of (-)alprenolol. The receptor eluted as a sharp peak at 30 micromolar ligand and displayed a specific activity of 280 pmol receptor/mg of protein. Ion-exchange chromatography on DEAE-Sephacel increased the specific activity to 950 pmol/mg of protein. The final step in the purification, steric-exclusion high-pressure liquid chromatography on two TSK-3000 and one TSK-2000 columns, tandem linked, resulted in a beta-adrenergic receptor preparation with a specific activity of 6700 pmol/mg of protein (15,900-fold purification). Autoradiography of the radioiodinated pure receptor, the receptor photolabeled with [125I]iodoazidobenzylpindolol or silver-staining of chemical amounts of protein revealed that the Mr of the pure receptor is 66,000 upon polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis in sodium dodecyl sulfate under reducing conditions. The receptor is a beta2-subtype adrenergic receptor.

Adrenergic receptors: possible mechanism of inverse regulation of alpha- and beta-receptors

Many physiologic and pathologic conditions, including bronchial asthma, are associated with inverse changes in alpha- and beta-receptor-mediated responses in various tissues. The direction of the change elicited by a given stimulus is tissue specific, as exemplified by the actions of thyroid hormones: In the rat heart, hypothyroidism reduces beta- and increases alpha-receptor responses, whereas in the rat liver it has the opposite effects. A similar increase in beta- and decrease in alpha-receptor responses in the rat liver is triggered by a number of different conditions, including glucocorticoid deficiency, that appear to represent lower levels of cellular differentiation. Among these, incubation of isolated hepatocytes in a serum-free buffer triggers the conversion of the receptor response in vitro within 4 hours, without parallel changes in the density or affinity of receptor binding sites. This change can be acutely reversed by an endogenous inhibitor of membrane phospholipase A2, or accelerated by an activator of phospholipase A2, suggesting that changes in the activity of this enzyme are involved in the conversion of the hepatic adrenoceptor response. The glucocorticoid-induced increase in beta-receptors in cultured human lung adenocarcinoma cells also appears to be mediated indirectly through the induction of an endogenous inhibitor (lipomodulin) of membrane phospholipase A2. The possible relevance of altered membrane phospholipid metabolism in the pathomechanism of asthma and in the associated glucocorticoid-sensitive changes in adrenergic receptor mechanisms is discussed.

Evidence for a decrease in the efficiency of beta-receptor coupling to adenylate cyclase in liver membranes from sucrose-fed rats

Sucrose feeding has been shown previously to alter the plasma concentration of several factors which may regulate beta-adrenergic receptors, including corticosteroids and insulin as well as altered sympathetic nervous system (SNS) tone. For this reason we initiated a study of the effects of sucrose feeding on the beta-adrenergic receptor-adenylate cyclase system in rat liver plasma membranes. Beta-Adrenergic responsiveness was monitored by measuring isoproterenol stimulation of adenylate cyclase activity, while beta-adrenergic receptor characteristics were evaluated by analyzing [125I]iodocyanopindolol [( 125I]CYP) binding. Rats fed rat chow ad lib. supplemented by drinking water containing 10% sucrose solution exhibited a 50-75% reduction in hepatic isoproterenol-sensitive adenylate cyclase activity. This effect of sucrose was also observed in adrenalectomized (ADX) and 6-hydroxydopamine-pretreated animals, ruling out a causal role for corticosteroids or the sympathetic nervous system respectively. No effect was observed on basal, glucagon-, fluoride- or GTP-stimulated adenylate cyclase. A small but significant decrease in [125I]CYP specific binding capacity was observed in liver membranes prepared from sucrose-fed ADX rats, whereas no change in [125I]CYP binding capacity was observed in in sucrose-fed normal rats. These observations suggest that beta-receptor to adenylate cyclase coupling efficiency is decreased by the sucrose diet. The activities of two membrane-associated phospholipid methyltransferases and the content of endogenous S-adenosylmethionine in liver were reduced by sucrose feeding, implying a defect in the methylation pathway for phosphatidylcholine synthesis. The possible relationship between this latter finding and the observed decrease in beta-adrenergic receptor to adenylate cyclase coupling efficiency is discussed.

Molecular mechanism of inverse regulation of hepatic alpha-1 and beta-2-adrenergic receptors

The adrenergic activation of glycogenolysis in the rat liver is converted from an alpha-1 to a beta-2-receptor mediated event in various conditions associated with cellular dedifferentiation. Short-term incubation of isolated hepatocytes in a serum-free medium results in a similar conversion of the adrenoceptor response, without concomitant changes in the density or affinity of alpha-1 or beta-receptor binding sites. This time-dependent conversion can be prevented or reversed by inhibitors of protein synthesis, by an endogenous inhibitor of phospholipase A2 (lipomodulin), or by removal of fatty acids from the medium through a lipid-trap. Conversely, activation of phospholipase A2 or addition of exogenous arachidonic acid to freshly isolated rat liver cells induces an acute conversion from alpha-1 to beta-type response, and the effect of the latter is prevented by the cyclooxygenase inhibitor, ibuprofen. It is proposed that reciprocal changes in alpha-1 and beta-2 receptor activity in rat liver cells are triggered by inverse changes in the coupling of the two receptors to their respective post-receptor pathways. These changes are mediated by a cyclooxygenase product generated through increased phospholipase A2 activity.

Influence of plasma hormone levels on various stimulant-induced hepatic DNA synthesis in carbon tetrachloride-intoxicated rats

The effects of insulin, glucagon, isoproterenol and carbachol on the regeneration of injured liver were investigated in rats treated with carbon tetrachloride (CCl4). These agents effectively potentiated hepatic DNA synthesis in rats both at 48 and at 72 hr after CCl4 intoxication. The maximal stimulatory effects of the agents on the synthesis coincided in time with the peak of elevation in basal DNA synthesis following the intoxication. Plasma levels of insulin and triiodothyronine were decreased before the elevation of basal DNA synthesis in CCl4-treated rats. The possible relationship of these changes in plasma hormones to the potentiated effects of the agents on DNA synthesis was examined in rats treated with streptozotocin (STZ) or methylthiouracil (MTU). The agents caused no potentiation in STZ-treated rats. On the other hand, in MTU-treated rats, isoproterenol and carbachol significantly stimulated DNA synthesis, but this was not the case with insulin and glucagon. These results suggest that the pancreatic hormonal, beta-adrenergic and cholinergic stimulations play positive roles in regulating liver regeneration after CCl4 intoxication. Furthermore, the hypothyroid state developed in CCl4-treated rats may provide favorable conditions for the stimulation of DNA synthesis by isoproterenol and carbachol. It is unlikely, however, that insulin deficiency contributes to potentiations in the regenerative responses of the injured liver.

Predominance of beta-adrenergic over alpha-adrenergic receptor functions involved in phosphorylase activation in liver cells of cholestatic rats

Hepatocytes isolated from normal and cholestatic rats responded to adrenergic agonists and antagonists in a quite different manner. Much greater activation of glycogen phosphorylase was caused by phenylephrine, an alpha-agonist, than by isoproterenol, a beta-agonist, in normal rat hepatocytes, and vice versa in the cholestatic rat cells. Epinephrine activation of phosphorylase was antagonized more efficiently by phenoxybenzamine, an alpha-antagonist, than by propranolol, a beta-antagonist, in normal rats, whereas it was antagonized totally by propranolol but only partially by phenoxybenzamine in cholestatic rat hepatocytes. The number of alpha-adrenergic receptors, measured by [3H]prazosin binding to membranes, as well as alpha-receptor-mediated increases in 32Pi incorporation into phosphatidylinositol and in 45Ca efflux, were reduced in hepatocytes after induction of cholestasis. The reduction of these parameters of alpha-receptor-linked functions was associated with the reciprocal increase in the number of beta-receptors and enhancement of beta-receptor-mediated accumulation of cyclic AMP in cholestatic rat hepatocytes. The affinity of epinephrine for beta-receptors was higher in cholestatic rat cells than in normal rat cells; this difference in affinity was abolished by the addition of guanylylimidodiphosphate, indicating that induction of cholestasis rendered hepatic beta-receptors more tightly coupled to the GTP-binding protein. Thus, the cascade reactions arising from beta-receptors are predominant over those from alpha-receptors, eventually leading to glycogen breakdown in cholestatic rat hepatocytes, principally because of not only the elevated beta to alpha ratio of the membrane receptor density but also the tight coupling of beta-receptors to the adenylate cyclase system via the guanine nucleotide regulatory protein.

The hepatic alpha 1-adrenergic receptor

Since the relatively recent advent of radioligand binding techniques, it has been possible to directly identify and characterize hepatic adrenergic receptors as well as study their physiological regulation. While it is now clear that alpha 1-adrenergic receptors constitute the major population of hepatic adrenergic receptors and are primarily responsible for the actions of catecholamines in liver, relatively little is known about the molecular mechanisms underlying alpha 1-responses. Recent results suggest that guanine nucleotides may be implicated in the transmission of the hormonal signal from the hepatic alpha 1-receptor to its effectors in a manner analogous to that described for adenylate cyclase-linked receptors. The lack of an easily measurable proximal membrane response for the alpha 1-receptor has been a severe handicap in our understanding of the mechanism of transmission of the hormonal signal. It is likely that until such a response is defined, alpha 1-adrenergic research will continue to lag behind research on the beta-adrenergic receptor.

Modulation by thyroid status of cyclic AMP-dependent and Ca2+-dependent mechanisms of hormone action in rat liver cells. Possible involvement of two different transduction mechanisms in alpha 1-adrenergic action

The actions of hormones which are associated to cAMP-dependent and calcium-dependent mechanisms of signal transduction were studied in hepatocytes obtained from rats with different thyroid states. In cells from euthyroid and hyperthyroid rats, the metabolic actions of epinephrine were mediated mainly through alpha 1-adrenoceptors; beta-adrenoceptors seem to be functionally unimportant. In contrast, both alpha 1- and beta-adrenoceptors mediate the actions of epinephrine in hepatocytes from hypothyroid animals. Phosphatidylinositol labeling was strongly stimulated by epinephrine, vasopressin and angiotensin II in cells from eu-, hyper- or hypothyroid rats. However, metabolic responsiveness to vasopressin and angiotensin II was markedly impaired in the hypothyroid state. The glycogenolytic response to the calcium ionophore A-23187 was also impaired, suggesting that hepatocytes from hypothyroid rats are less sensitive to calcium signalling. The persistence of alpha 1-adrenergic responsiveness in the hypothyroid state suggests that the mechanism of signal transduction for alpha 1-adrenergic amines is not identical to that of the vasopressor peptides. alpha 1-Adrenergic stimulation of cyclic AMP accumulation was not detected in cells from hypothyroid rats. These data suggest that factors besides calcium and besides cAMP are probably involved in alpha 1-adrenergic actions. Metabolic responses to glucagon and to the cAMP analogue dibutyryl cAMP were not markedly changed during hypothyroidism, although cAMP accumulation produced by glucagon and beta-adrenergic agonists was enhanced. In hyperthyroidism, cell responsiveness to epinephrine, vasopressin, angiotensin II and glucagon was decreased, but sensitivity to cAMP was not markedly altered. The factors involved in this hyposensitivity to hormones during hyperthyroidism are unclear.

Genetic variation in beta-adrenergic receptors in mice: a magnesium effect determined by a single gene

Genetic variation in the amount of binding of dihydroalprenolol (a potent antagonist) to hepatocyte β-adrenergic receptors has been observed among inbred strains of mice. This variation is attributed to a differential effect of magnesium on the receptors between the high and low binding strains. Evidence for a single gene controlling the magnesium effect on dihydroalprenolol binding to β-adrenergic receptors was found using recombinant inbred lines between the high and low strains. We suggest the provisional gene symbolBadm.