Adenosine analogs inhibit adipocyte adenylate cyclase by a GTP-dependent process: basis for actions of adenosine and methylxanthines on cyclic AMP production and lipolysis

The involvement of purinergic signalling in obesity

Obesity is a growing worldwide health problem, with an alarming increasing prevalence in developed countries, caused by a dysregulation of energy balance. Currently, no wholly successful pharmacological treatments are available for obesity and related adverse consequences. In recent years, hints obtained from several experimental animal models support the notion that purinergic signalling, acting through ATP-gated ion channels (P2X), G protein-coupled receptors (P2Y) and adenosine receptors (P1), is involved in obesity, both at peripheral and central levels. This review has drawn together, for the first time, the evidence for a promising, much needed novel therapeutic purinergic signalling approach for the treatment of obesity with a 'proof of concept' that hopefully could lead to further investigations and clinical trials for the management of obesity.

From GTP and G proteins to TRPC channels: a personal account

By serendipity and good fortune, as a postdoctoral fellow in 1967, I landed at the right place at the right time, as I was allowed to investigate the mechanism by which hormones activate the enzyme adenylyl cyclase (then adenyl cyclase) in Martin Rodbell's Laboratory at the NIH in Bethesda, Maryland. The work uncovered first, the existence of receptors separate from the enzyme and then, the existence of transduction mechanisms requiring guanosine-5'-triphosphate (GTP) and Mg(2+). With my laboratory colleagues first and postdoctoral fellows after leaving NIH, I participated in the development of the field "signal transduction by G proteins," uncovered by molecular cloning several G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) and became interested in both the molecular makeup of voltage-gated Ca channels and Ca2+ homeostasis downstream of activation of phospholipase C (PLC) by the Gq/11 signaling pathway. We were able to confirm the hypothesis that there would be mammalian homologues of the Drosophila "transient receptor potential" channel and discovered the existence of six of the seven mammalian genes, now called transient receptor potential canonical (TRPC) channels. In the present article, I summarize from a bird's eye view of what I feel were key findings along this path, not only from my laboratory but also from many others, that allowed for the present knowledge of cell signaling involving G proteins to evolve. Towards the end, I summarize roles of TRPC channels in health and disease.

Dynamics of adenylate cyclase regulation via heterotrimeric G-proteins

A wide variety of G-protein-coupled receptors either activate or inhibit ACs (adenylate cyclases), thereby regulating cellular cAMP levels and consequently inducing proper physiological responses. Stimulatory and inhibitory G-proteins interact directly with ACs, whereas G(q)-coupled receptors exert their effects primarily via Ca2+. Using the FRET-based cAMP sensor Epac1 (exchange protein directly activated by cAMP 1)-cAMPS (adenosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphorothioate), we studied cAMP levels in single living VSMCs (vascular smooth muscle cells) or HUVECs (human umbilical vein endothelial cells) with subsecond temporal resolution. Stimulation of purinergic (VSMCs) or thrombin (HUVECs) receptors rapidly decreased cAMP levels in the presence of the β-adrenergic agonist isoprenaline via a rise in Ca2+ and subsequent inhibition of AC5 and AC6. Specifically in HUVECs, we observed that, in the continuous presence of thrombin, cAMP levels climbed slowly after the initial decline with a delay of a little less than 1 min. The underlying mechanism includes phospholipase A2 activity and cyclo-oxygenase-mediated synthesis of prostaglandins. We studied further the dynamics of the inhibition of ACs via G(i)-proteins utilizing FRET imaging to resolve interactions between fluorescently labelled G(i)-proteins and AC5. FRET between Gα(i1) and AC5 developed at much lower concentration of agonist compared with the overall G(i)-protein activity. We found the dissociation of Gα(i1) subunits and AC5 to occur slower than the G(i)-protein deactivation. This led us to the conclusion that AC5, by binding active Gα(i1), interferes with G-protein deactivation and reassembly and thereby might sensitize its own regulation.

Purinergic signalling in endocrine organs

There is widespread involvement of purinergic signalling in endocrine biology. Pituitary cells express P1, P2X and P2Y receptor subtypes to mediate hormone release. Adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP) regulates insulin release in the pancreas and is involved in the secretion of thyroid hormones. ATP plays a major role in the synthesis, storage and release of catecholamines from the adrenal gland. In the ovary purinoceptors mediate gonadotrophin-induced progesterone secretion, while in the testes, both Sertoli and Leydig cells express purinoceptors that mediate secretion of oestradiol and testosterone, respectively. ATP released as a cotransmitter with noradrenaline is involved in activities of the pineal gland and in the neuroendocrine control of the thymus. In the hypothalamus, ATP and adenosine stimulate or modulate the release of luteinising hormone-releasing hormone, as well as arginine-vasopressin and oxytocin. Functionally active P2X and P2Y receptors have been identified on human placental syncytiotrophoblast cells and on neuroendocrine cells in the lung, skin, prostate and intestine. Adipocytes have been recognised recently to have endocrine function involving purinoceptors.

Historical perspectives in fat cell biology: the fat cell as a model for the investigation of hormonal and metabolic pathways

For many years, there was little interest in the biochemistry or physiology of adipose tissue. It is now well recognized that adipocytes play an important dynamic role in metabolic regulation. They are able to sense metabolic states via their ability to perceive a large number of nervous and hormonal signals. They are also able to produce hormones, called adipokines, that affect nutrient intake, metabolism and energy expenditure. The report by Rodbell in 1964 that intact fat cells can be obtained by collagenase digestion of adipose tissue revolutionized studies on the hormonal regulation and metabolism of the fat cell. In the context of the advent of systems biology in the field of cell biology, the present seems an appropriate time to look back at the global contribution of the fat cell to cell biology knowledge. This review focuses on the very early approaches that used the fat cell as a tool to discover and understand various cellular mechanisms. Attention essentially focuses on the early investigations revealing the major contribution of mature fat cells and also fat cells originating from adipose cell lines to the discovery of major events related to hormone action (hormone receptors and transduction pathways involved in hormonal signaling) and mechanisms involved in metabolite processing (hexose uptake and uptake, storage, and efflux of fatty acids). Dormant preadipocytes exist in the stroma-vascular fraction of the adipose tissue of rodents and humans; cell culture systems have proven to be valuable models for the study of the processes involved in the formation of new fat cells. Finally, more recent insights into adipocyte secretion, a completely new role with major metabolic impact, are also briefly summarized.

Short-term regulation of adiponectin secretion in rat adipocytes

Adiponectin belongs to the group of biologically active substances secreted by adipocytes and referred to as adipokines. Disturbances in its secretion and/or action are thought to be involved in the pathogenesis of some metabolic diseases. However, regulation of adiponectin secretion is poorly elucidated. In the present study, short-term regulation of adiponectin secretion in primary rat adipocytes was investigated. Isolated rat adipocytes were incubated in Krebs-Ringer buffer containing 5 mM glucose and insulin alone or in the combination with epinephrine, dibutyryl-cAMP, adenosine A(1) receptor antagonist (DPCPX), palmitate, 2-bromopalmitate or inhibitor of mitochondrial electron transport (rotenone). Adipocyte exposure for 2 h to insulin (1-100 nM) significantly increased secretion of adiponectin compared with secretion observed without insulin. Furthermore, secretion of adiponectin from adipocytes incubated with glucose and insulin was reduced by 1 and 2 microM epinephrine, but not by 0.25 and 0.5 microM epinephrine. Under similar conditions, 1 and 2 mM dibutyryl-cAMP substantially diminished secretion of adiponectin, whereas 0.5 mM dibutyryl-cAMP was ineffective. Secretion of adiponectin was found to be effectively decreased by DPCPX. Moreover, adipocyte exposure to rotenone also resulted in a substantial diminution of secretory response of adipocytes incubated for 2 h with glucose and insulin. It was also demonstrated that palmitate and 2-bromopalmitate (0.06-0.5 mM) failed to affect secretion of leptin. The obtained results indicated that in short-term regulation of adiponectin secretion, insulin and epinephrine exert the opposite effects. These effects appeared as early as after 2 h of exposure. Moreover, deprivation of energy or blockade of adenosine action substantially decreased secretion of adiponectin.

The birth and postnatal development of purinergic signalling

The purinergic signalling system is one of the most ancient and arguably the most widespread intercellular signalling system in living tissues. In this review we present a detailed account of the early developments and current status of purinergic signalling. We summarize the current knowledge on purinoceptors, their distribution and role in signal transduction in various tissues in physiological and pathophysiological conditions.

Regulation of lipolysis in adipocytes

Lipolysis of white adipose tissue triacylglycerol stores results in the liberation of glycerol and nonesterified fatty acids that are released into the vasculature for use by other organs as energy substrates. In response to changes in nutritional state, lipolysis rates are precisely regulated through hormonal and biochemical signals. These signals modulate the activity of lipolytic enzymes and accessory proteins, allowing for maximal responsiveness of adipose tissue to changes in energy requirements and availability. Recently, a number of novel adipocyte triacylglyceride lipases have been identified, including desnutrin/ATGL, greatly expanding our understanding of adipocyte lipolysis. We have also begun to better appreciate the role of a number of nonenzymatic proteins that are critical to triacylglyceride breakdown. This review provides an overview of key mediators of lipolysis and the regulation of this process by changes in nutritional status and nutrient intakes.

Caffeine Use in Sports, Pharmacokinetics in Man, and Cellular Mechanisms of Action

Caffeine is the most widely consumed psychoactive 'drug' in the world and probably one of the most commonly used stimulants in sports. This is not surprising, since it is one of the few ergogenic aids with documented efficiency and minimal side effects. Caffeine is rapidly and completely absorbed by the gastrointestinal tract and is readily distributed throughout all tissues of the body. Peak plasma concentrations after normal consumption are usually around 50 microM, and half-lives for elimination range between 2.5-10 h. The parent compound is extensively metabolized in the liver microsomes to more than 25 derivatives, while considerably less than 5% of the ingested dose is excreted unchanged in the urine. There is, however, considerable inter-individual variability in the handling of caffeine by the body, due to both environmental and genetic factors. Evidence from in vitro studies provides a wealth of different cellular actions that could potentially contribute to the observed effects of caffeine in humans in vivo. These include potentiation of muscle contractility via induction of sarcoplasmic reticulum calcium release, inhibition of phosphodiesterase isoenzymes and concomitant cyclic monophosphate accumulation, inhibition of glycogen phosphorylase enzymes in liver and muscle, non-selective adenosine receptor antagonism, stimulation of the cellular membrane sodium/potassium pump, impairment of phosphoinositide metabolism, as well as other, less thoroughly characterized actions. Not all, however, seem to account for the observed effects in vivo, although a variable degree of contribution cannot be readily discounted on the basis of experimental data. The most physiologically relevant mechanism of action is probably the blockade of adenosine receptors, but evidence suggests that, at least under certain conditions, other biochemical mechanisms may also be operational.

Tonic activity of the rat adipocyte A1-adenosine receptor

1. Adipocyte A(1)-adenosine receptors (A(1) AdoR) tonically inhibit adenylyl cyclase and lipolysis. Three potential explanations for tonic activity of A(1)AdoR of rat epididymal adipocytes were investigated: high affinity of adenosine for the receptor, efficient coupling of receptor activation to response, and spontaneous activity of the receptor in the absence of agonist. 2. The affinity of adenosine for the adipocyte A(1)AdoR was determined as 4.6 microM by analysis of effects of an irreversible receptor antagonist on agonist concentration-response relationships. In contrast, the potency of adenosine to decrease cyclic AMP in isolated adipocytes was 1.4 nM. 3. Occupancy by agonist of the A(1)AdoR was efficiently coupled to functional response (decrease of adipocyte cyclic AMP content). Activation by adenosine of less than 1% of A(1)AdoRs caused a near-maximal decrease of cyclic AMP in adipocytes. Thus the receptor reserve for adenosine to decrease cyclic AMP content of adipocytes was greater than 99%. 4. Affinities and receptor reserves for other A(1)AdoR agonists were determined. Agonists appeared to differ more in their affinity for the receptor than in their intrinsic efficacy to activate it. 5. A(1)AdoRs were inactive in the absence of agonist. 6. It is concluded that adipocyte A(1)AdoR are tonically activated by endogenous adenosine at nanomolar concentrations. The expression of a high density of A(1)AdoR that are efficiently coupled to a functional response enables the adipocyte to respond with high sensitivity to the low-affinity agonist, adenosine. Adipocytes may be a model for cells whose functions are tonically modulated by adenosine present in the interstitium of well-oxygenated tissues.

Inhibition of proteasome activity blocks the ability of TNF alpha to down-regulate G(i) proteins and stimulate lipolysis

Prolonged treatment of rat adipocytes with TNF alpha increases lipolysis through a mechanism mediated, in part, by down-regulation of inhibitory G proteins (G(i)). Separately, down-regulation of G(i) by prolonged treatment with an A(1)-adenosine receptor agonist, N(6)-phenylisopropyl adenosine (PIA) increases lipolysis. To investigate the role of proteolysis in TNF alpha and PIA-mediated G(i) down-regulation and stimulation of lipolysis, we used the protease inhibitors lactacystin (proteasome inhibitor) and calpeptin (calpain inhibitor). Rat adipocytes were preincubated for 1 h with lactacystin (10 microM) or calpeptin (50 microM), before 30-h treatment with either TNF alpha (50 ng/ml) or PIA (300 nM). We then measured lipolysis (glycerol release), abundance of alpha-subunits of G(i)1 and G(i)2 in plasma membranes (Western blotting) and protease activities (in specific fluorogenic assays). TNF alpha and PIA stimulated lipolysis approximately 2-fold and caused G(i) down-regulation. Although neither lactacystin nor calpeptin affected basal lipolysis, lactacystin completely inhibited both TNF alpha and PIA-stimulated lipolysis (the 50% inhibitory concentration was approximately 2 microM), whereas calpeptin had no effect. Similarly, lactacystin but not calpeptin blocked both PIA and TNF alpha-induced G(i) down-regulation. These findings provide further evidence that the chronic lipolytic effect of TNF alpha and PIA is secondary to G(i) down-regulation and suggest that the mechanism involves proteolytic degradation mediated through the proteasome pathway.

Mechanism of intracellular calcium ([Ca2+]i) inhibition of lipolysis in human adipocytes

We investigated the mechanisms responsible for the anti-lipolytic effect of intracellular Ca2+ ([Ca2+]i) in human adipocytes. Increasing [Ca2+]i inhibited lipolysis induced by b-adrenergic receptor activation, A1 adenosine receptor inhibition, adenylate cyclase activation, and phosphodiesterase (PDE) inhibition, as well as by a hydrolyzable cAMP analog, but not by a nonhydrolyzable cAMP analog. This finding indicates that the anti-lipolytic effect of [Ca2+]i may be mediated by the activation of adipocyte PDE. Consistent with this theory, [Ca2+]i inhibition of isoproterenol-stimulated lipolysis was reversed completely by the nonselective PDE inhibitor isobutyl methylxanthine and also by the selective PDE 3B inhibitor cilostamide, but not by selective PDE 1 and 4 inhibitors. In addition, phosphatidylinositol-3 kinase inhibition with wortmannin completely prevented insulin's anti-lipolytic effect but only minimally blocked [Ca2+]i's effect, which suggests that [Ca2+]i and insulin may activate PDE 3B via different mechanisms. In contrast, the antilipolytic effect of [Ca2+]i was not affected by inhibitors of calmodulin, Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent kinase, protein phosphatase 2B, and protein kinase C. Finally, [Ca2+]i inhibited significantly isoproterenol-stimulated increases in cAMP levels and hormone-sensitive lipase phosphorylation in human adipocytes. In conclusion, increasing [Ca2+]i exerts an antilipolytic effect mainly by activation of PDE, leading to a decrease in cAMP and HSL phosphorylation and, consequently, inhibition of lipolysis.

Pharmacokinetic-pharmacodynamic modeling of the antilipolytic effects of an adenosine receptor agonist in healthy volunteers

ARA is an adenosine receptor agonist with high affinity for A1 and A2 receptors, which are involved in regulation of free fatty acid (FFA) production. Two parallel groups of 13 healthy males were enrolled in a Phase I study to evaluate the pharmacokinetics of this compound and to characterize its effect on plasma FFA concentrations following administration of a single 6-hour intravenous infusion of ARA or placebo. ARA plasma concentrations were measured by a validated high-performance liquid chromatographic method (fluorescence detection). ARA is a highly cleared compound (Cl: 0.79 L/h/kg) with a modest volume of distribution (Vss: 0.91 L/kg) and short half-life (t1/2: approximately 1 hour). The mean percent change in plasma FFA concentrations relative to placebo was best described by an Emax-based tolerance model, in which a hypothetical metabolite/antagonist was used to describe the apparent development of tolerance to the suppressive effects of ARA on FFA levels. The EC50 values (%RSE of estimate) for ARA and the hypothetical antagonist were 17.0 (5.4) and 15.6 (12.8) ng/mL, respectively. The use of adenosine A1 agonists as antilipolytic drugs may be restricted due to the potential development of tolerance, and thus a period of abstinence from the agonist may be required before the response of FFA returns to pretolerant conditions. In the case of ARA, the value of 0.33 h-1 for Kant0 indicates that a period of approximately 11 hours should suffice. In agreement with preclinical data previously reported in literature, the present study provides evidence that desensitization of adenosine receptor-mediated inhibition of lipolysis may occur in humans. In conclusion, the ability of ARA to reduce circulating levels of FFA can be related to plasma ARA concentrations using a modified Emax-based tolerance model.

Adenosine therapy: a new approach to chronic heart failure

Both the prevention and attenuation of chronic heart failure (CHF) are important issues for cardiologists. There are three different strategies to prevent patients from deleterious sequels. The first strategy is to remove the causes of CHF if possible; the second is to attenuate the events that may lead to CHF, such as myocardial ischaemia and reperfusion injury, cardiomyopathy and myocarditis, cardiac hypertrophy and ventricular remodelling; the third is to prevent or attenuate the progression of CHF. Adenosine has a number of actions which merit it as a possible cardioprotective and therapeutic agent for CHF. Firstly, adenosine induces collateral circulation via inducing growth factors and triggering ischaemic preconditioning, both of which induce ischaemic tolerance in advance. Adenosine is also known to reduce the release of noradrenaline, production of endothelin and attenuate the activation of renin-angiotensin system all of which are believed to cause cardiac hypertrophy and remodelling. Secondly, exogenous adenosine is known to reduce the severity of ischaemia and reperfusion injury. Thirdly, adenosine is reported to counteract neurohumoral factors, i.e., cytokine systems, known to be related to the pathophysiology of CHF. Recently, we revealed that adenosine metabolism is changed in patients with CHF and increases in adenosine levels may aid to reduce the severity of CHF. Thus, there are many potential mechanisms for cardioprotection attributable to adenosine and we postulate the use of adenosine therapy will be beneficial in patients with CHF.

Beta(3)-adrenergic stimulation and insulin inhibition of non-selective cation channels in white adipocytes of the rat

Single-channel currents were recorded from the plasma membrane of white adipocytes of 6-8-week-old male Sprague-Dawley rats. In outside-out patches (high K(+), no Ca(2+) in pipette), a voltage-dependent K-channel (delayed rectifier) with a single-channel conductance (gamma) of 16 pS (24 degrees C) in modified Ringer's was active at a density of 0.5/microm(2). It was blocked by TEA (IC(50)=1.5 mM). A Ca(2+)-activated non-selective cation channel (NSC-channel) appeared at a mean density of 1/microm(2) in inside-out patches ([Ca(2+)](i)=1.2 mM). gamma was 28 pS (24 degrees C). The NSC showed weak voltage dependence and was blocked by mefenamic acid and by internal ATP. In the cell-attached mode spontaneous activity could be blocked reversibly by 100 nM insulin. Noradrenaline (NA, 100 nM) induced a flickering activity of the NSC-channels. Isoproterenol (100 nM) caused activity of the NSC-channel as well. After 1 microM propranolol even 1 microM NA did not induce any activity. The alpha-antagonist phentolamine had no effect on isoproterenol- or on NA-induced currents. The beta(3)-agonists BRL 37344 and BRL 35135A induced activity of the NSC-channel at 100 nM as well. We conclude that white adipocytes express ion channels which are comparable to those in brown adipocytes and that beta-receptor activation opens NSC-channels thus allowing for Na(+) entry into white adipocytes.

It is time to ask what adenosine can do for cardioprotection

Prevention and attenuation of ischemia and reperfusion injury in patients with acute coronary syndrome are critically important for cardiologists. To save these patients from deleterious ischemic insults, there are three different strategies. The first strategy is to increase ischemic tolerance before the onset of myocardial ischemia; the second is to attenuate the ischemia and reperfusion injury when an irreversible process of myocardial cellular injury occurs; the third is to treat the ischemic chronic heart failure that is caused by acute myocardial infarction. Adenosine, which is known to be cardioprotective against ischemia and reperfusion injury, may merit being used for these three cardioprotection strategies. First of all, adenosine induces collateral circulation via induction of growth factors, and triggers ischemic preconditioning, both of which induce ischemic tolerance in advance. Secondly, endogenous adenosine may mediate the infarct size-limiting effect of ischemic preconditioning, and exogenous adenosine is known to attenuate ischemia and reperfusion injury. Thirdly, we also revealed that adenosine metabolism is changed in patients with chronic heart failure, and increases in adenosine levels may attenuate the severity of ischemic heart failure. Therefore, adenosine therapy may improve the pathophysiology of ischemic chronic heart failure. Taking these factors together, we hereby propose potential tools for cardioprotection attributable to adenosine in ischemic hearts, and we postulate the use of adenosine therapy before, during, and after the onset of acute myocardial infarction.

New insights into cardioprotection by ischemic preconditioning and other forms of stress

Ischemic preconditioning has not only received wide attention in heart research, but has also been a topic of extensive studies involving other organs. In several of these studies, it has been shown that in spite of differences in the endpoints used to assess protection, the same mediators as in myocardial ischemic preconditioning may be involved. However, several of the putative mediators do not require ischemia to become activated. This has guided us and others to investigate whether the myocardium can also be protected by brief ischemia in other organs and whether other non-pharmacological forms of stress, which do not produce ischemia but are capable of activating these potential mediators, are also cardioprotective.

Adenosine and cardioprotection in the diseased heart

Biological and mechanical stressors such as ischemia, hypoxia, cellular ATP depletion, Ca2+ overload, free radicals, pressure and volume overload, catecholamines, cytokines, and renin-angiotensin may independently cause reversible and/or irreversible cardiac dysfunction. As a defense against these forms of stress, several endogenous self-protective mechanisms are exerted to avoid cellular injury. Adenosine, a degradative substance of ATP, may act as an endogenous cardioprotective substance in pathophysiological conditions of the heart, such as myocardial ischemia and chronic heart failure. For example, when brief periods of myocardial ischemia precede sustained ischemia, infarct size is markedly limited, a phenomenon known as ischemic preconditioning. We found that ischemic preconditioning activates the enzyme responsible for adenosine release, ie, ecto-5'-nucleotidase. Furthermore, the inhibitor of ecto-5'-nucleotidase reduced the infarct size-limiting effect of ischemic preconditioning, which establishes the cause-effect relationship between activation of ecto-5'-nucleotidase and the infarct size-limiting effect. We also found that protein kinase C is responsible for the activation of ecto-5'-nucleotidase. Protein kinase C phosphorylated the serine and threonine residues of ecto-5'-nucleotidase. Therefore, we suggest that adenosine produced via ecto-5'-nucleotidase gives cardioprotection against ischemia and reperfusion injury. Also, we found that plasma adenosine levels are increased in patients with chronic heart failure. Ecto-5'-nucleotidase activity increased in the blood and the myocardium in patients with chronic heart failure, which may explain the increases in adenosine levels in the plasma and the myocardium. In addition, we found that further elevation of plasma adenosine levels due to either dipyridamole or dilazep reduces the severity of chronic heart failure. Thus, we suggest that endogenous adenosine is also beneficial in chronic heart failure. We propose potential mechanisms for cardioprotection attributable to adenosine in pathophysiological states in heart diseases. The establishment of adenosine therapy may be useful for the treatment of either ischemic heart diseases or chronic heart failure.

Activation of various subtypes of G-protein alpha subunits by partial agonists of the adenosine A1 receptor

The activation of different G protein subtypes by the rat adenosine A1 receptor initiated by stimulation with the full agonist 2-chloro-N6-cyclopentyladenosine (CCPA) and by six structurally distinct partial agonists of this receptor was investigated. Endogenous G protein alpha subunits in rat cortical membranes were inactivated by N-ethylmaleimide (NEM). Activation of rat recombinant myristoylated alpha(o), alpha(i1), alpha(i2) and alpha(i3) by partial agonists in comparison to the full agonist was assessed by guanosine-5'-(gamma-[35S]thio)triphosphate ([35S]GTPgammaS) binding after reconstitution of G protein alpha subunits with the adenosine A1 receptor in N-ethylmaleimide-treated membranes. 2-Chloro-N6-cyclopentyladenosine and 3' -deoxy-N6-cyclopentyladenosine (3'-d-CPA), the partial agonist with the highest intrinsic activity, were significantly more potent in activation of alpha(i) subtypes than alpha(o). In contrast, 5'-methylthioadenosine (MeSA), 2'-deoxy-2-chloroadenosine (cladribine), 2'-deoxy-N6-cyclopentyladenosine (2'-d-CPA), 2-phenylaminoadenosine (CV 1808) and C8-aminopropyl-N6-cyclopentyladenosine (C8-aminopropyl-CPA) did not exhibit higher potency for Go or any Gi subtype. All partial agonists, although carrying structurally different modifications, showed higher relative intrinsic activities in activation of Gi than of Go, indicating that Gi-coupled pathways may be activated selectively via the A1 receptor by partial agonists, but not Go-mediated responses.

Adenosine receptors: new opportunities for future drugs

This review summarises current knowledge on adenosine receptors, an important G protein-coupled receptor. The four known adenosine receptor subtypes A1, A2A, A2B, and A3 are discussed with special reference to the opportunities for drug development.

Tachycardia preconditions infarct size in dogs: role of adenosine and protein kinase C

BACKGROUND

Myocardial ischemic preconditioning is a well-known phenomenon, however there is scant information in regard to nonischemic preconditioning.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We studied in anesthetized dogs the preconditioning effect of tachycardia and the mediation of adenosine and protein kinase C in this process. In a control group the anterior descending coronary artery was occluded for 60 minutes and reperfused for 270 minutes. Heart rate was kept constant at 120 +/- 5 cycles/min and aortic pressure changes were damped. The infarct size (necrotic volume/risk region volume x 100) was 15.8 +/- 1.5%. In another group of dogs a similar protocol was followed, but five periods of tachycardia (213 +/- 12 cycles/min), 5 minutes in duration each, with 5 minutes of intervening periods at control heart rate, were induced previous to the coronary occlusion. The infarct size was reduced by 46% (P<.001) with respect to the nonpreconditioned group. This effect was not due to changes in collateral flow nor risk region size. During tachycardia, myocardial interstitial adenosine increased about twofold (P<.05); no metabolic, hemodynamic, or ECG evidences of ischemia were observed and the transmural vasodilatory reserve was preserved. The blockade of adenosine receptors with 8 phenyltheophylline, before or after the preconditioning tachycardia, reverted its protecting effect but it did not modify infarct size in nonpreconditioned dogs. No changes in cytosolic or particulate protein kinase C activity or translocation of alpha-, beta-, epsilon-, and zeta- protein kinase C isozyme by effect of tachycardia or ischemia were observed between preconditioned and nonpreconditioned dogs.

CONCLUSIONS

Tachycardia, in the absence of ischemia, mimics the preconditioning effect of ischemia in the dog. This effect is mediated by adenosine but not by changes in protein kinase C activity or its translocation.

Sodium saccharin inhibits adenylyl cyclase activity in non-taste cells

We have studied the in vitro effect of sodium saccharin (NaSacch) on the rat adipocyte adenylyl cyclase complex. NaSacch (2.5-50 mM) inhibited significantly in a dose-dependent manner basal and isoproterenol-stimulated cAMP accumulation on isolated rat adipocytes. Similarly, NaSacch (2.5-50 mM) inhibited forskolin-stimulated adenylyl cyclase activity measured in the presence of Mg(2+)-ATP on adipocyte, astrocyte and thyrocyte membrane fractions. In contrast, NaSacch did not inhibit but slightly increased the forskolin-stimulated adenylyl cyclase activity measured in the presence of Mn(2+)-ATP and GDP beta S, a stable GDP analogue. The effect of NaSacch was not mediated through either the A1-adenosine receptor (A1R) or the alpha 2-adrenergic receptor (alpha 2AR). The inhibitory effect of NaSacch was additive to that of A1R agonist and was not blocked by the addition of the alpha 2AR antagonist RX 821002. Pretreatment of adipocytes with pertussis toxin slightly attenuated but did not abolish the inhibitory effect of NaSacch on forskolin-stimulated adenylyl cyclase activity on membrane fractions. These data suggest that the inhibitory effect of NaSacch on forskolin stimulated-adenylyl cyclase in adipocytes does not imply only Gi protein but also other direct or indirect inhibitory pathway(s) which remain to be determined.

Regulation of type I adenylyl cyclase by calmodulin kinase IV in vivo

Type I adenylyl cyclase is a neurospecific enzyme that is stimulated by Ca2+ and calmodulin (CaM). This enzyme couples the Ca2+ and cyclic AMP (cAMP) regulatory systems in neurons, and it may play an important role for some forms of synaptic plasticity. Mutant mice lacking type I adenylyl cyclase show deficiencies in spatial memory and altered long-term potentiation (Z. Wu, S. A. Thomas, Z. Xia, E. C. Villacres, R. D. Palmiter, and D. R. Storm, Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 92:220-224, 1995). Although type I adenylyl cyclase is synergistically stimulated by Ca2+ and G-protein-coupled receptors in vivo, very little is known about mechanisms for inhibition of the enzyme. Here, we report that type I adenylyl cyclase is inhibited by CaM kinase IV in vivo. Expression of constitutively active or wild-type CaM kinase IV inhibited Ca2+ stimulation of adenylyl cyclase activity without affecting basal or forskolin-stimulated activity. Type I adenylyl cyclase has two CaM kinase IV consensus phosphorylation sequences near its CaM binding domain at Ser-545 and Ser-552. Conversion of either serine to alanine by mutagenesis abolished CaM kinase IV inhibition of adenylyl cyclase. This suggests that the activity of this enzyme may be directly inhibited by CaM kinase IV phosphorylation. Type VIII adenylyl cyclase, another enzyme stimulated by CaM, was not inhibited by CaM kinase II or IV. We propose that CaM kinase IV may function as a negative feedback regulator of type I adenylyl cyclase and that CaM kinases may regulate cAMP levels in some cells.

Cross-talk between glucagon- and adenosine-mediated signalling systems in rat hepatocytes: effects on cyclic AMP-phosphodiesterase activity

The effect of adenosine analogues on glucagon-stimulated cyclic AMP accumulation in rat hepatocytes was explored. N6-Cyclopentyladenosine (CPA), 5'-N-ethylcarboxamidoadenosine and N6-(R-phenylisopropyl)adenosine inhibited in a dose-dependent manner the cyclic AMP accumulation induced by glucagon. This effect seems to be mediated through A1 adenosine receptors. Pertussis toxin completely abolished the effect of CPA on glucagon-stimulated cyclic AMP accumulation in whole cells which suggested that a pertussis-toxin-sensitive G-protein was involved. On the other hand, this action of adenosine analogues on glucagon-induced cyclic AMP accumulation was reverted by the selective low-Km cyclic AMP-phosphodiesterase inhibitor Ro 20-1724. Analysis of cyclic AMP-phosphodiesterase activity in purified hepatocyte plasma membranes showed that glucagon in the presence of GTP inhibited basal PDE activity by 45% and that CPA reverted this inhibition in dose-dependent manner. In membranes derived from pertussis-toxin-treated rats, we observed no inhibition of cyclic AMP-phosphodiesterase activity by glucagon in the absence or presence of CPA. Our results indicate that in hepatocyte plasma membranes, stimulation of adenylate cyclase activity and inhibition of a low-Km cyclic AMP phosphodiesterase activity are co-ordinately regulated by glucagon, and that A1 adenosine receptors can inhibit glucagon-stimulated cyclic AMP accumulation by blocking glucagon's effect on phosphodiesterase activity.

Adenosine stimulation of Na+ transport is mediated by an A1 receptor and a [Ca2+]i-dependent mechanism

Studies were performed to determine the primary signal transduction mechanism that mediates adenosine stimulation of electrogenic sodium transport in renal epithelial cells. Experiments were performed on cultured amphibian A6 cells with an adenosine analogue that preferentially binds to the A1 receptor, cyclohexyladenosine (CHA). Sodium transport was assessed by the equivalent short circuit current (Ieq). CHA was found to stimulate Ieq via activation of an A1 receptor because (1) the threshold concentration was 1 nM compared to that of 10 microM for the specific A2 agonist CGS21680, (2) CHA inhibited vasopressin (AVP)-stimulated cAMP production by a pertussis toxin-sensitive mechanism, and (3) the action of CHA was inhibited by the A1 antagonist 1,3-dipropyl-8-cyclopentylxanthine (DPCPX). CHA increased intracellular Ca2+ ([Ca2+]i) and stimulated phosphoinositide turnover at concentrations that increased Ieq and in a time course that paralleled the increase in Ieq. Ion transport was stimulated by a Ca(2+)-dependent mechanism because the CHA induced increase in Ieq was inhibited by chelating [Ca2+]i with 5,5'dimethyl BAPTA in a dose-dependent manner, with a Ki of approximately 10 microM. The increase in Ieq was also dose-dependently inhibited by the specific PKC inhibitors dihydroxychlorpromazine and chelerythrine, and by trifluoperazine which inhibits PKC and calmodulin. Further studies indicated that CHA-stimulated Ieq was independent of cAMP generation because CHA did not induce an increase in cAMP accumulation parallel to the increase in Ieq in a dose-response analysis, and the adenylate cyclase inhibitor 2',5' dideoxy-adenosine (DDA) did not affect the CHA-induced increase in Ieq.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Impaired function of inhibitory G proteins during acute myocardial ischemia of canine hearts and its reversal during reperfusion and a second period of ischemia. Possible implications for the protective mechanism of ischemic preconditioning

A brief antecedent period of myocardial ischemia and reperfusion can delay cellular injury during a subsequent ischemic condition. Recent observations suggest that this protective mechanism depends on the continued activation of adenosine A1 receptors and Gi proteins. During acute myocardial ischemia, sufficient amounts of adenosine for maximal activation of adenosine A1 receptors are released, independent of a preconditioning ischemia. Hence, the protective mechanism of ischemic preconditioning may not exclusively be explained by activation of adenosine A1 receptors. As a working hypothesis, an increased responsiveness of Gi proteins toward receptor-mediated activation, leading to an increased response of Gi-regulated effectors, was tested in this study. In 47 anesthetized dogs, ischemia was induced by proximal ligation of the left anterior descending coronary artery. Animals underwent either a single period of 5 minutes of ischemia (n = 9), a single period of 15 minutes of ischemia (n = 10), 5 minutes of ischemia followed by 15 minutes of reperfusion (n = 8), 15 minutes of ischemia followed by 60 minutes of reperfusion (n = 5), or 5 minutes of ischemia followed by 15 minutes of reperfusion and a second period of 5 minutes of ischemia (n = 15). Sarcolemmal membranes were prepared from the central ischemic area and from the posterior left ventricular wall, which served as the control. During ischemia, carbochol-stimulated GTPase decreased by 38% (control, 33.5 +/- 17.7; ischemia, 24.2 +/- 15 pmol.min-1.mg protein-1; n = 9; P < .001). The decrease in carbachol-stimulated GTPase activity was associated with a 45% decrease in carbachol-mediated inhibition of adenylyl cyclase (control, 28.9 +/- 2.4% maximal inhibition; ischemia, 15.1 +/- 2.6% maximal inhibition; n = 5; P < .001). Prolongation of the ischemic period to 15 minutes did not lead to a further reduction of the Gi-mediated signal transduction. The binding properties of muscarinic receptors were not affected by ischemia. Furthermore, as demonstrated by carbachol-stimulated binding of [gamma-35S]GTP to sarcolemmal membranes, high- and low-affinity binding sites for the muscarinic antagonist carbachol, the EC50 for carbachol-stimulated GTPase activity and the substrate dependency of the high-affinity GTPase, the interaction between muscarinic receptors and inhibitory G proteins, and GTP binding to G proteins were not altered (n = 14). Immunoblotting with alpha 1- and alpha 2-specific antibodies did not indicate a loss of Gi proteins during ischemia that could explain the reduced GTPase activity.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)

Prostaglandin E2 stimulates cyclic AMP-mediated hyaluronan synthesis in rabbit pericardial mesothelial cells

We studied the effects of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) on hyaluronan synthesis in rabbit pericardial mesothelial cells, and the following results were obtained. (1) PGE2 (10-1000 ng/ml) stimulated hyaluronan synthesis and the level of hyaluronan synthase activity in a dose- and time-dependent manner, but PGF2 alpha did not. (2) Cyclic AMP (cAMP) levels in the cells peaked (about a 7-fold increase) at 5-10 min after adding PGE2 (1000 ng/ml). (3) Increased hyaluronan synthesis induced by PGE2 was significantly inhibited after pretreatment with either an adenylate cyclase inhibitor (2',5'-dideoxyadenosine) or a cAMP-dependent protein kinase inhibitor (PKI 5-24), but there was no inhibition with the protein kinase C inhibitor H-7. (4) When the intracellular cAMP level was raised by manipulating the levels of dibutyryl cyclic AMP or forskolin, hyaluronan synthesis and the level of hyaluronan synthase activity were also stimulated. These results suggest that PGE2 produced by cells stimulates hyaluronan synthesis in rabbit pericardial cells and that the stimulation mechanism involves the cAMP-mediated protein kinase signal transduction process.

The inhibitory GTP-binding protein (Gi) regulates the agonistic property of beta-adrenergic ligands in isolated rat adipocytes. Evidence for a priming effect of cyclic AMP

Prenalterol, an allegedly beta 1-selective adrenergic agonist with high intrinsic sympathomimetic activity (ISA), was shown to be weakly lipolytic in rat adipocytes. However, in pertussis-toxin-treated adipocytes, the ISA of prenalterol was markedly increased (from 10-20% to approx. 100% of that of isoprenaline). The cellular sensitivity was also increased (EC50 approx. 60 nM and approx. 3 microM in pertussis-toxin-treated and control cells respectively). A similar effect was seen for other partial agonists such as the beta 2-selective agonist terbutaline and for beta-adrenergic antagonists with some intrinsic activity (metoprolol, pindolol). There was no clear change in sensitivity to isoprenaline's ability to stimulate adenylate cyclase in adipocyte membranes from pertussis-toxin-treated animals but the cyclase activity was increased approx. 4-fold in the presence of 1 microM-GTP. Prenalterol stimulated lipolysis by only small increases in intracellular cyclic AMP (cAMP) levels (less than 10% of that seen with isoprenaline). Basal lipolysis was increased in cells from pertussis-toxin-treated rats and the cellular sensitivity to the non-degradable cAMP analogue, N6-monobutyryl-cAMP, was increased. In control cells, a submaximal concentration of prenalterol (0.1 microM) increased the sensitivity to the cAMP analogues, N6-monobutyryl-cAMP and 8-bromo-cAMP. A low concentration (1 mM) of 8-bromo-cAMP also increased the effect of prenalterol. Similar effects were seen when the phosphodiesterase was inhibited. Thus (1) lipolysis is extremely sensitive to small increases in intracellular cAMP; (2) the degree of activation of adenylate cyclase and thus cAMP formation is the rate-limiting step for the biological response of partial agonists; (3) the inhibitory GTP-binding protein, Gi, is an important modulator ('tissue factor') of the beta-adrenergic agonistic property; (4) low levels of cAMP exert a priming effect on protein kinase A.

Adenosine levels in the postimplantation mouse uterus: quantitation by HPLC-fluorometric detection and spatiotemporal regulation by 5'-nucleotidase and adenosine deaminase

Extracellular adenosine has the potential to influence many aspects of target cell metabolism. The present study has determined the endogenous levels of adenosine in the pregnant mouse uterus and developing embryo-decidual unit with respect to the expression of two key enzymes of adenosine metabolism, 5'-nucleotidase (5'-NT; EC 3.1.3.5) and adenosine deaminase (ADA; EC 3.5.4.4). To measure adenosine levels, nucleoside extracts were etheno-derivatized and quantitated by high-performance liquid chromatography-fluorescence detection (0.03 pmol/mg protein sensitivity). Adenosine levels were determined to be 0.18 nmol/mg protein in the nonpregnant uterus; however, two statistically significant changes were identified in the pregnant uterus: (1) a periimplantation surge between day 3 (0.24 nmol/mg protein) and day 5 (0.59 nmol/mg protein) of gestation (plug day 0; implantation day 4); and (2) an early postimplantation decline between day 6 (0.54 nmol/mg protein) and day 7 (0.10 nmol/mg protein). The periimplantation adenosine surge coincided with uterine expression of 5'-NT, an enzyme which catalyzes the irreversible dephosphorylation of 5'-AMP to adenosine. 5'-NT expression was shown by Northern blot analysis to peak in the embryo-decidual unit on day 5 of gestation and then to decline through day 9; transcripts remained elevated in the placenta between day 9 and day 13 (the latest day examined in this study). By use of specific enzyme histochemistry, most 5'-NT activity was localized to the primary decidual zone on day 5. This expression subsequently declined during regression of the primary decidua; however, 5'-NT appeared on giant trophoblast (days 7-13) and the metrial gland (days 11-13). Other purine catabolic enzymes degrading AMP (adenylate deaminase) or generating adenosine (S-adenosylhomocysteine hydrolase) were not detected in the embryo-decidual unit suggesting that the net flux of utero-placental AMP catabolism proceeds with adenosine as an intermediate, this being the major pathway of adenosine formation. The sharp drop in adenosine levels between day 6 and day 7 coincided with a rise in the activity and mRNA expression of ADA, an enzyme which catalyzes the irreversible deamination of adenosine to inosine. ADA was previously localized to the secondary decidual zone (days 6-11), secondary giant cells (days 7-13), and spongiotrophoblasts (days 8-13) in the mouse (Knudsen et al., 1991). Results of developmental Northern blot analysis demonstrated a direct correlation of relative 5'-NT/ADA mRNA band intensity to adenosine content between day 4 and day 9 of gestation, suggesting that the local availability of adenosine in the antimesometrium is dependent upon the distribution of these enzymatic activities.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)

Adenosine, the heart, and coronary circulation

Adenosine is known to regulate myocardial and coronary circulatory functions. Adenosine not only dilates coronary vessels, but attenuates beta-adrenergic receptor-mediated increases in myocardial contractility and depresses both sinoatrial and atrioventricular node activities. The effects of adenosine are mediated by two distinct receptors (i.e., A1 and A2 receptors). A1 adenosine receptors, located in atrial and ventricular myocardium and sinoatrial/atrioventricular nodes, are responsible for inhibition of adenylyl cyclase activity. A2 adenosine receptors, located in coronary endothelial and smooth muscle cells, are responsible for stimulation of this enzyme activity. During increased myocardial oxygen demand due to rapid pacing and exercise, although both coronary blood flow and adenosine concentrations in the myocardium and coronary efflux increased, there is no clear consensus explaining its cause and effect relation at present. However, ischemia/reperfusion-induced coronary hyperemia is believed to be mostly attributed to released adenosine, and it has been proven that adenosine attenuates the severity of ischemia due to its coronary vasodilatory action. The beneficial effects of adenosine during ischemia/reperfusion processes do not seem simple. This is because myocardial ischemia and reperfusion injury is caused by 1) activated leukocytes and platelets, 2) ATP depletion and calcium overload of myocardium, and 3) catecholamine release from the presynaptic nerves as well as 4) the impaired coronary circulation. Intriguingly adenosine attenuates all of these deleterious actions and thereby attenuates ischemia/reperfusion injury. Indeed, adenosine attenuates the severity of contractile dysfunction (myocardial stunning) and limits the infarct size. Thus, administration of adenosine or potentiators of adenosine production in the ischemic myocardium may be beneficial for the attenuation of ischemic and reperfusion injuries, although further clinical investigations are necessary.

Cyclic AMP mimics, but does not mediate, interleukin-1- and tumour-necrosis-factor-stimulated phospholipase A2 secretion from rat renal mesangial cells

We have previously shown that recombinant interleukin 1 (IL-1) and recombinant tumour necrosis factor (TNF) synergistically stimulate phospholipase A2 release from mesangial cells. We now report that treatment of mesangial cells with the beta-agonist salbutamol, prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), cholera toxin or forskolin, which all activate adenylate cyclase, increased release of phospholipase A2 activity. Likewise, addition of a membrane-permeant cyclic AMP (cAMP) analogue or the phosphodiesterase inhibitor 3-isobutyl-1-methylxanthine enhanced release of phospholipase A2 activity from mesangial cells. There was a lag period of about 8 h before a significantly enhanced secretion could be detected. Furthermore, actinomycin D or cycloheximide completely suppressed cAMP-stimulated secretion of phospholipase A2. Angiotensin II, the phorbol ester phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate, the Ca2+ ionophore A23187 and a membrane-permeant cGMP analogue did not stimulate phospholipase A2 release from the cells. Treatment with indomethacin completely inhibited IL-1 beta- and TNF-stimulated PGE2 synthesis, without having any effect on phospholipase A2 secretion, thus excluding cytokine-induced PGE2 synthesis as the mediator of phospholipase A2 release. Neither IL-1 beta nor TNF induced any increase in intracellular cAMP in mesangial cells. Furthermore, incubation of the cells with 2',5'-dideoxyadenosine, an inhibitor of adenylate cyclase, did not block cytokine-stimulated phospholipase A2 secretion. In addition, IL-1 beta and TNF synergistically interacted with forskolin to stimulate phospholipase A2 release from the cells. The protein kinase inhibitors H-8, staurosporine, K252a and amiloride inhibited IL-1 beta- and TNF-stimulated phospholipase A2 secretion. However, high concentrations that inhibit other protein kinases were needed. These observations suggest that IL-1 beta and TNF cause secretion of phospholipase A2 by a mechanism independent of cAMP. The signalling pathways used by IL-1 beta and TNF may involve a protein kinase that is probably different from protein kinase A or protein kinase C.

On the origins and present state of the art of G protein research

G proteins are central to the transduction of many receptor signals. I review the "firsts" that have led to our current knowledge and pose some of the questions presently investigated in several laboratories around the world.

Inhibition of N6-[3H]cyclohexyladenosine binding by carbamazepine

The mechanism of action of carbamazepine (CBZ) (Tegretol), despite widespread use in the management of partial and tonic-clonic seizures in adults, is not completely understood. In animals, adenosine and adenosine analogues have anticonvulsant effects that may be due to interactions with central A1 adenosine receptors. CBZ (at therapeutically relevant concentrations) inhibits the binding of agonists and antagonists to brain A1 adenosine receptors, but whether as an agonist/antagonist is not clear. The adenosine agonist, N6-[3H]cyclohexyladenosine ([3H]CHA), binds to membranes from rat cortex and hippocampus at two nanomolar binding sites or states. To clarify the actions of carbamazepine at the A1 adenosine receptor, its inhibitory actions were compared with those of known adenosine agonists and xanthine antagonists using 0.1 nM[3H]CHA, in which almost all binding is to the higher affinity state, or 10 nM [3H]CHA, in which there is a substantial contribution of binding from both states. The ratios of the IC50 values (concentration that inhibits specific binding by 50%) at 10 nM [3H]CHA to the IC50 values at 0.1 nM [3H]CHA were 18-31 for the agonists and 4-10 for the xanthine antagonists. CBZ had a ratio of 3. The inhibitory effects of GTP on [3H]CHA binding were less in the presence of the adenosine agonist, 2-chloroadenosine than were inhibitory effects in the presence of the xanthine antagonist theophylline or CBZ in both cortex and hippocampus. These in vitro studies indicate that CBZ is an antagonist at A1 adenosine receptors in cerebral cortical and hippocampal membranes from rat brain. Agonist activity at A1 adenosine receptors would have been compatible with the sedative anticonvulsant effects of CBZ, but these data do not support a role of the anticonvulsant action of carbamazepine on A1 adenosine receptors in cerebral cortex or hippocampus.

Multiple controls by adenosine receptors on the adenylate cyclase in the rat hepatic membrane

The effects of an adenosine analog, N6-phenyl-isopropyl-adenosine (PIA), on the glucagon-stimulated adenylate cyclase activity in rat hepatic membranes were studied. Adenosine at high concentrations (greater than 10 microM) has been reported exclusively to inhibit the adenylate cyclase via intracellular P-sites of the hepatic membrane. The stimulation by glucagon of the enzyme was attenuated by nanomolar concentrations of PIA in the presence of low concentrations (less than 1.0 microM) of GTP, indicating the effect of the guanine nucleotide inhibitory system (Ni). This inhibition by PIA required the presence of sodium chloride and was antagonized with isobutyl methylxanthine, an antagonist for the extracellular R-site receptors. The inhibitory effects of PIA disappeared and reversed into a stimulatory phase with increasing concentrations of GTP, suggesting the presence of a stimulatory (Ns) and an inhibitory (Ni) guanine nucleotide system of the enzyme in the action of the adenosine. PIA concentrations over a micromolar were observed to stimulate the enzyme activity in a GTP-dependent manner, indicating the presence of the stimulatory receptor (A2 or Ra) coupled to the Ns. These results suggest that receptors for adenosine of the inhibitory type (A1 or Ri) and the stimulatory type (A2 or Ra) are present on the rat hepatic membrane, showing multiple controls of the adenylate cyclase system, depending on the cellular concentrations of GTP and/or sodium chloride.

Increased myocardial adenosine production and reduction of beta-adrenergic contractile response in aged hearts

The contractile response of the aged adult heart to beta-adrenergic stimulation is known to be reduced compared with the young adult heart. Since endogenous adenosine exerts an antiadrenergic action in the heart, this study was undertaken to determine if the basal endogenous level of myocardial adenosine increases with age and whether this increase mediates the reduced responsiveness of aged heart to beta-adrenergic stimulation. Young (3-5 months) and aged (12-22 months) Sprague-Dawley adult rat hearts of CD and SD stock were perfused at constant pressure and paced at 270 contractions/min. The two age groups had a similar level of +dP/dtmax (index of contractility) under control conditions. Adenosine release into the coronary effluent was 30 +/- 3 nmol/min/g dry wt from young and 54 +/- 9 nmol/min/g dry wt from aged hearts. Inosine release was also greater from the aged hearts. Isoproterenol (10(-8) M) stimulation increased contractile state by 113% in young hearts and only 69% in aged hearts. Isoproterenol further increased the adenosine and inosine release from both age groups. Theophylline (5 x 10(-5) M), an adenosine antagonist, prevented the difference in the contractile response to isoproterenol stimulation between the young and aged hearts. Elevation of external calcium from 2 to 4 mM increased contractility equally in both age groups without influencing adenosine release. Myocardial oxygen consumption, coronary effluent PO2, oxygen supply-demand ratio, and lactate release were similar for both age groups, indicating that under the conditions studied the elevated release of adenosine by the aged hearts was not due to hypoxia. Aged (10-14 months) adult guinea pig hearts also displayed a reduced responsiveness to the isoproterenol stimulation and released more adenosine compared with young (3-4 months) adult guinea pig hearts. These findings suggest that enhanced adenosine levels that are present in the aged myocardium are responsible, in part, for the reduced contractile responsiveness of the older adult heart to beta-adrenergic stimulation.

Cold acclimation induces desensitization to adenosine in brown fat cells without changing receptor binding

The ability of brown fat cells isolated from control and cold-acclimated hamsters to respond to adenosine was investigated. In measurements of the rate of oxygen consumption, it was observed that cells from control hamsters responded as expected to addition of adenosine deaminase, 3-isobutyl-1-methylxanthine (IBMX), or 2-chloroadenosine (i.e., norepinephrine dose-response curves were shifted to left in presence of adenosine deaminase or IBMX and to right with 2-chloroadenosine). However, brown fat cells isolated from cold-acclimated hamsters, under identical conditions, showed almost complete absence of adenosine control. Thus acclimation to cold induced a desensitization to adenosine by physiological means. To evaluate the molecular mechanism underlying desensitization to adenosine, [3H]phenylisopropyladenosine ([3H]PIA) binding to brown fat membranes from control and cold-acclimated hamsters was investigated. [3H]PIA bound with similar high affinity (KD approximately 5 nM) and saturability (Bmax approximately 15 fmol/mg protein) in both membrane preparations, demonstrating that desensitization to adenosine was not due to changes in adenosine receptor number or receptor affinity for adenosine. Furthermore, GTP induced a reduction in [3H]PIA affinity in brown fat membranes from both control and cold-acclimated hamsters, indicating that desensitization was probably not due to an uncoupling between the receptor and Gi protein. It was therefore concluded that the adenosine desensitization process may be located at the Gi protein-adenylate cyclase interaction.

Roles of G proteins in coupling of receptors to ionic channels and other effector systems

Guanine nucleotide binding (G) proteins are heterotrimers that couple a wide range of receptors to ionic channels. The coupling may be indirect, via cytoplasmic agents, or direct, as has been shown for two K+ channels and two Ca2+ channels. One example of direct G protein gating is the atrial muscarinic K+ channel K+[ACh], an inwardly rectifying K+ channel with a slope conductance of 40 pS in symmetrical isotonic K+ solutions and a mean open lifetime of 1.4 ms at potentials between -40 and -100 mV. Another is the clonal GH3 muscarinic or somatostatin K+ channel, also inwardly rectifying but with a slope conductance of 55 pS. A G protein, Gk, purified from human red blood cells (hRBC) activates K+ [ACh] channels at subpicomolar concentrations; its alpha subunit is equipotent. Except for being irreversible, their effects on gating precisely mimic physiological gating produced by muscarinic agonists. The alpha k effects are general and are similar in atria from adult guinea pig, neonatal rat, and chick embryo. The hydrophilic beta gamma from transducin has no effect while hydrophobic beta gamma from brain, hRBCs, or retina has effects at nanomolar concentrations which in our hands cannot be dissociated from detergent effects. An anti-alpha k monoclonal antibody blocks muscarinic activation, supporting the concept that the physiological mediator is the alpha subunit not the beta gamma dimer. The techniques of molecular biology are now being used to specify G protein gating. A "bacterial" alpha i-3 expressed in Escherichia coli using a pT7 expression system mimics the gating produced by hRBC alpha k.

Caffeine taste test for panic disorder: adenosine receptor supersensitivity

The present study introduces a novel measure of adenosine receptor sensitivity that is based on the action of specific receptor blockers (e.g., caffeine) to potentiate the ability to detect threshold quinine concentrations. The test is used to compare gustatory adenosinergic responses to caffeine challenges in normal controls and patients with panic disorder or posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Panic disorder patients had an exaggerated response to the caffeine challenge that was not found in controls or PTSD patients, although the latter had higher anxiety scores on psychometric tests. The results are related to a model in which A1-adenosine receptors up-regulate in an attempt to modulate hyperactive excitatory neuronal systems.

Effect of adenosine and adenosine analogs on [14C]aminopyrine accumulation by rabbit parietal cells

Adenosine receptors that modulate adenylate cyclase activity have been identified recently in a number of tissues. Adenosine A2 receptor is stimulatory to adenylate cyclase, whereas adenosine A1 receptor is inhibitory to adenylate cyclase. We investigated the effect of adenosine and its analogs on [14C]aminopyrine accumulation by rabbit parietal cells. Rabbit gastric mucosal cells were isolated by enzyme digestion. Parietal cells were enriched by nonlinear percoll gradients. [14C]Aminopyrine accumulation was used as an indicator of acid secretion. The effect of 2-chloroadenosine on histamine-stimulated [14C]aminopyrine accumulation was studied. The effects of N-ethylcarboxamideadenosine, 2-chloroadenosine, stable analogs of adenosine, and adenosine on [14C]aminopyrine accumulation were assessed. Cyclic AMP content of parietal cells was determined by radioimmunoassay. Histamine and carbachol, known secretagogues, stimulated [14C]aminopyrine accumulation. 2-Chloroadenosine did not suppress histamine-stimulated [14C]aminopyrine accumulation. 2-Chloroadenosine, N-ethylcarboxamideadenosine, and adenosine dose dependently increased [14C]aminopyrine accumulation. The order of potency was N-ethylcarboxamideadenosine greater than 2-chloroadenosine greater than adenosine. 8-Phenyltheophylline and theophylline, adenosine-receptor antagonists, or cimetidine did not have significant effects on the increase of AP uptake induced by 2-chloroadenosine. Coadministration of dipyridamole, and adenosine uptake inhibitor, augmented the effect of adenosine on [14C]aminopyrine accumulation. 2-Chloroadenosine, N-ethylcarboxamideadenosine, and adenosine each induced a significant increase in cellular cyclic AMP. We conclude that there may be adenosine A2 receptors on rabbit parietal cells which modulate gastric acid secretion.

Characterization of adenosine receptors in guinea-pig isolated left atria

1. The effects of purinergic stimulation on action potential, force of contraction, 86Rb efflux and 45Ca uptake were investigated in guinea-pig left atria. 2. Adenosine exerted a negative inotropic effect which was antagonized by adenosine deaminase but enhanced by dipyridamole. 3. The negative inotropic effect of adenosine was mimicked by 5'-(N-ethyl)-carboxamido-adenosine (NECA) and the isomers of N6-(phenyl-isopropyl)-adenosine, R-PIA and S-PIA. NECA and R-PIA were about 100 times more potent than adenosine, whereas R-PIA was about 100 times more potent than S-PIA. 4. The inotropic effects of adenosine (in the presence of dipyridamole), NECA, R-PIA and S-PIA were competitively antagonized either by theophylline (pA2 about 4.5) or 8-phenyltheophylline (pA2 about 6.3). 5. NECA and R-PIA shortened the action potential duration and increased the rate constant of the efflux of 86Rb in a concentration-dependent manner with no differences in potency; the effects were competitively antagonized by 8-phenyltheophylline. 6. Barium ions reduced the efflux of 86Rb under control conditions and antagonized the increase induced by NECA and R-PIA. 7. NECA and R-PIA significantly reduced 45Ca uptake in beating preparations. 8. It is concluded that adenosine, NECA and R-PIA activate a common receptor population (P1 or A3) on the outside of the cell membrane of atrial heart muscle to increase the potassium conductance and to reduce the action potential and, thereby, calcium influx and force of contraction.

The ability of denbufylline to inhibit cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterase and its affinity for adenosine receptors and the adenosine re-uptake site

1. Denbufylline has been examined for its ability to inhibit cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterase isoenzymes from rat cardiac ventricle and cerebrum, as well as for its affinity for adenosine A1 and A2 receptors and the re-uptake site. For comparison, SK&F 94120, theophylline and 3-isobutyl-1-methyl-xanthine (IBMX) were examined as phosphodiesterase inhibitors whilst N6-cyclohexyladenosine, R(-)-N6-(2-phenylisopropyl)-adenosine, 5'-N-ethylcarboxamido-adenosine, 2-nitrobenzylthioinosine, theophylline and IBMX were examined for their affinity for adenosine binding sites. 2. This investigation confirmed the presence of four phosphodiesterase activities in rat cardiac ventricle; in rat cerebrum only three were present. 3. Denbufylline selective inhibited one form of Ca2+-independent, low Km cyclic AMP phosphodiesterase. The form inhibited was one of two present in cardiac ventricle and the sole one in cerebrum. This form was not inhibited by cyclic GMP. The inotropic agent SK&F 94120 selectively inhibited the form of cyclic AMP phosphodiesterase which was inhibited by cyclic GMP present in cardiac ventricle. Theophylline and IBMX were relatively non-selective phosphodiesterase inhibitors. 4. Denbufylline was a less potent inhibitor of ligand binding to adenosine receptors than of cyclic AMP phosphodiesterase. This contrasted with theophylline, which had a higher affinity for adenosine receptors, and IBMX which showed no marked selectivity. Denbufylline, theophylline and IBMX all had a low affinity for the adenosine re-uptake site. 5. Denbufylline is being developed as an agent for the therapy of multi-infarct dementia. The selective inhibition of a particular low Km cyclic AMP phosphodiesterase may account for the activity of this compound.