Central cardiovascular action of urotensin II in conscious rats

Urotensin II system in chronic kidney disease

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a progressive and long-term condition marked by a gradual decline in kidney function. CKD is prevalent among those with conditions such as diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and glomerulonephritis. Affecting over 10% of the global population, CKD stands as a significant cause of morbidity and mortality. Despite substantial advances in understanding CKD pathophysiology and management, there is still a need to explore novel mechanisms and potential therapeutic targets. Urotensin II (UII), a potent vasoactive peptide, has garnered attention for its possible role in the development and progression of CKD. The UII system consists of endogenous ligands UII and UII-related peptide (URP) and their receptor, UT. URP pathophysiology is understudied, but alterations in tissue expression levels of UII and UT and blood or urinary UII concentrations have been linked to cardiovascular and kidney dysfunctions, including systemic hypertension, chronic heart failure, glomerulonephritis, and diabetes. UII gene polymorphisms are associated with increased risk of diabetes. Pharmacological inhibition or genetic ablation of UT mitigated kidney and cardiovascular disease in rodents, making the UII system a potential target for slowing CKD progression. However, a deeper understanding of the UII system's cellular mechanisms in renal and extrarenal organs is essential for comprehending its role in CKD pathophysiology. This review explores the evolving connections between the UII system and CKD, addressing potential mechanisms, therapeutic implications, controversies, and unexplored concepts.

Microinjection of urotensin II into the rostral ventrolateral medulla increases sympathetic vasomotor tone via the GPR14/ERK pathway in rats

The present study aimed to reveal the effects of urotensin II (UII) on sympathetic vasomotor tone in the rostral ventrolateral medulla (RVLM). UII (0.3, 3, and 30 nmol/L, 50 nL) was microinjected into the RVLM. Blood pressure (BP), heart rate (HR), and renal sympathetic nerve activity (RSNA) were measured to determine the sympathetic vasomotor tone. BP, HR, and RSNA were simultaneously recorded after drugs had been microinjected into the RVLM. Microinjection of UII (0.3, 3, and 30 nmol/L, 50 nL) into the RVLM significantly increased BP, HR, and RSNA. Pretreatment with BIM23127 (300 nmol/L, 50 nL), a potent antagonist of the UII receptor GPR14, abolished the effect of UII. Previous microinjection of PD98059 (25 μmol/L, 50 nL), an inhibitor of ERK, significantly suppressed the effects of UII. Preinjection of an inhibitor of the N-type Ca²⁺ channel, ω-conotoxin GVIA (50 nmol/L, 50 nL), inhibited the effects of UII. The present study demonstrated that microinjection of UII into the RVLM significantly increased sympathetic vasomotor tone, which was mediated by the GPR14/ERK/N-type Ca²⁺ channel pathway. UII may become a novel therapeutic target for autonomic nervous system regulation, especially in hypertension.

Total flavones of Rhododendron simsii Planch flower protect isolated rat heart from ischaemia-reperfusion injury and its mechanism of UTR-RhoA-ROCK pathway inhibition

Objectives

Total flavones of Rhododendron simsii Planch flower (TFR) are an effective part extracted from the flower. The present study was designed to investigate the protective effect of TFR in isolated rat heart following global ischaemia-reperfusion and the possible underlying mechanisms.

Methods

Langendorff perfusion apparatus was used to perfuse isolated rat heart which was subjected to global ischaemia-reperfusion. The hemodynamic parameters were continuously monitored. Coronary flow as well as lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), creatine phosphokinase-MB (CK-MB) and cardiac troponin I (cTnI) in coronary effluents was measured. RhoA activity and urotensin receptor (UTR) and Rho-related coiled-coil-forming protein kinase (ROCK) protein expressions in rat myocardium were examined, respectively. Cardiac dysfunction was indicated by the alterations of hemodynamic parameters and the reduced coronary flow.

Key findings

Total flavones of Rhododendron simsii Planch flower significantly improved ischaemia-reperfusion–induced cardiac dysfunction and leakages of LDH, CK-MB and cTnI, and inhibited myocardial ischaemia-reperfusion–increased RhoA activity and UTR, ROCK1 and ROCK2 protein expressions. The improvement of TFR in the cardiac dysfunction and the leakage of LDH, CK-MB and cTnI were markedly attenuated under the UTR blockade and ROCK inhibition. TFR-inhibited RhoA activity was decreased under the UTR blockade.

Conclusions

Total flavones of Rhododendron simsii Planch flower had a protective effect on ischaemia-reperfusion injury in isolated rat heart, which may be attributed to the blocking of UTR and subsequent inhibition of the RhoA-ROCK pathway.

Acute Effect of Central Administration of Urotensin II on Baroreflex and Blood Pressure in Conscious Normotensive Rabbits

In the present study, we examined the effects of central administration of Urotensin II on blood pressure, heart rate, and baroreceptor heart rate reflexes in conscious normotensive rabbits. Preliminary operations were undertaken to implant a balloon cuff on the inferior vena cava for baroreflex assessments and to implant cannula into the lateral and fourth ventricle. After 2 weeks of recovery cumulative dose response curves to Urotensin II (10, 100 ng, 1, 10, and 100 μg) given into the ventricles, or Ringer's solution as a vehicle were performed on separate days. Injections were given each hour and baroreflex assessments were made 30 min after each administration. Analysis of the dose response curves to Urotensin II compared to vehicle administered into the lateral or fourth ventricle, indicated little change to blood pressure or heart rate. Analysis of the time course to the highest dose over a 30 min period revealed a small (−5 mmHg) depressor response maximal at 10 min when injected into the fourth ventricle but no effect when injected into the lateral ventricle. Baroreflex assessments made at each dose showed that there was no change in baroreflex sensitivity but that an increase in the upper plateau was observed when Urotensin was injected into the lateral ventricle and a tendency for a reduced lower heart rate plateau was observed after fourth ventricle administration. Clonidine administration in the fourth ventricle decreased blood pressure and heart rate, thus confirming catheter patency. In conclusion, our findings suggest that Urotensin II in the forebrain and brainstem may play a role in modulating cardiac sympathetic and vagal baroreflexes but only during large acute changes in blood pressure.

Central and Peripheral Effects of Urotensin II and Urotensin II-Related Peptides on Cardiac Baroreflex Sensitivity in Trout

The baroreflex response is an essential component of the cardiovascular regulation that buffers abrupt changes in blood pressure to maintain homeostasis. Urotensin II (UII) and its receptor UT are present in the brain and in peripheral cardiovascular tissues of fish and mammals. Intracerebroventricular (ICV) injection of UII in these vertebrates provokes hypertension and tachycardia, suggesting that the cardio-inhibitory baroreflex response is impaired. Since nothing is known about the effect of UII on the cardiac baroreflex sensitivity (BRS), we decided to clarify the changes in spontaneous BRS using a cross spectral analysis technique of systolic blood pressure (SBP) and R-R interval variabilities after ICV and intra-arterial (IA) injections of trout UII in the unanesthetized trout. We contrasted the effects of UII with those observed for the UII-related peptides (URP), URP1 and URP2. Compared with vehicle-injected trout, ICV injection of UII (5-500 pmol) produced a gradual increase in SBP, a decrease in the R-R interval (reflecting a tachycardia) associated with a dose-dependent reduction of the BRS. The threshold dose for a significant effect on these parameters was 50 pmol (BRS; -55%; 1450 ± 165 ms/kPa vs. 3240 ± 300 ms/kPa; P < 0.05). Only the 500-pmol dose of URP2 caused a significant increase in SBP without changing significantly the R-R interval but reduced the BRS. IA injection of UII (5-500 pmol) caused a dose-dependent elevation of SBP. Contrasting with the ICV effects of UII, the R-R interval increased (reflecting a bradycardia) up to the 50-pmol dose while the BRS remained unchanged (50 pmol; 2530 ± 270 ms/kPa vs. 2600 ± 180 ms/kPa; P < 0.05). Nonetheless, the highest dose of UII reduced the BRS as did the highest dose of URP1. In conclusion, the contrasting effect of low picomolar doses of UII after central and peripheral injection on the BRS suggests that only the central urotensinergic system is involved in the attenuation of the BRS. The limited and quite divergent effects of URP1 and URP2 on the BRS, indicate that the action of UII is specific for this peptide. Further studies are required to elucidate the site(s) and mechanisms of action of UII on the baroreflex pathways. Whether such effects of central UII on the BRS exist in mammals including humans warrants further investigations.

The role of urotensin II and atherosclerotic risk factors in patients with slow coronary flow

BACKGROUND

Slow coronary flow (SCF) is an angiographic finding characterized with delayed opacification of epicardial coronary arteries without obstructive coronary disease. Urotensin II (UII) is an important vascular peptide, which has an important role in hypertension, coronary artery disease, and vascular remodeling in addition to potent vasoconstrictor effect.

OBJECTIVES

We investigated UII levels, hypertension, and other atherosclerotic risk factors in patients with SCF, a variety of coronary artery disease.

METHODS

We enrolled 14 patients with SCF and 29 subjects with normal coronary arteries without SCF. We compared the UII levels and the atherosclerotic risk factors between patients with SCF and control subjects with normal coronary flow.

RESULTS

UII concentrations were significantly higher in patients with SCF compared to controls (711.0 ± 19.4 vs. 701.5 ± 27.2 ng/mL, p = 0.006). We detected a positive correlation between SCF and age (r = 0.476, p = 0.001), BMI (r = 0.404, p = .002), UII concentrations (r = 0.422, p = 0.006), and hypertension (r = 0.594, p = 0.001).

CONCLUSION

We identified increased UII levels in patients with SCF. We think that UII concentrations may be informative on SCF pathogenesis due to relationship with inflammation, atherosclerosis, and vascular remodeling.

International Union of Basic and Clinical Pharmacology. XCII. Urotensin II, urotensin II-related peptide, and their receptor: from structure to function

Urotensin II (UII) is a cyclic neuropeptide that was first isolated from the urophysis of teleost fish on the basis of its ability to contract the hindgut. Subsequently, UII was characterized in tetrapods including humans. Phylogenetic studies and synteny analysis indicate that UII and its paralogous peptide urotensin II-related peptide (URP) belong to the somatostatin/cortistatin superfamily. In mammals, the UII and URP genes are primarily expressed in cholinergic neurons of the brainstem and spinal cord. UII and URP mRNAs are also present in various organs notably in the cardiovascular, renal, and endocrine systems. UII and URP activate a common G protein-coupled receptor, called UT, that exhibits relatively high sequence identity with somatostatin, opioid, and galanin receptors. The UT gene is widely expressed in the central nervous system (CNS) and in peripheral tissues including the retina, heart, vascular bed, lung, kidney, adrenal medulla, and skeletal muscle. Structure-activity relationship studies and NMR conformational analysis have led to the rational design of a number of peptidic and nonpeptidic UT agonists and antagonists. Consistent with the wide distribution of UT, UII has now been shown to exert a large array of biologic activities, in particular in the CNS, the cardiovascular system, and the kidney. Here, we review the current knowledge concerning the pleiotropic actions of UII and discusses the possible use of antagonists for future therapeutic applications.

Divergent cardio-ventilatory and locomotor effects of centrally and peripherally administered urotensin II and urotensin II-related peptides in trout

The urotensin II (UII) gene family consists of four paralogous genes called UII, UII-related peptide (URP), URP1 and URP2. UII and URP peptides exhibit the same cyclic hexapeptide core sequence (CFWKYC) while the N- and C-terminal regions are variable. UII, URP1, and URP2 mRNAs are differentially expressed within the central nervous system of teleost fishes, suggesting that they may exert distinct functions. Although the cardiovascular, ventilatory and locomotor effects of UII have been described in teleosts, much less is known regarding the physiological actions of URPs. The goal of the present study was to compare the central and peripheral actions of picomolar doses (5-500 pmol) of trout UII, URP1, and URP2 on cardio-ventilatory variables and locomotor activity in the unanesthetized trout. Compared to vehicle, intracerebroventricular injection of UII, URP1 and URP2 evoked a gradual increase in total ventilation (V TOT) reaching statistical significance for doses of 50 and 500 pmol of UII and URP1 but for only 500 pmol of URP2. In addition, UII, URP1 and URP2 provoked an elevation of dorsal aortic blood pressure (P DA) accompanied with tachycardia. All peptides caused an increase in locomotor activity (A CT), at a threshold dose of 5 pmol for UII and URP1, and 50 pmol for URP2. After intra-arterial (IA) injection, and in contrast to their central effects, only the highest dose of UII and URP1 significantly elevated V TOT and A CT. UII produced a dose-dependent hypertensive effect with concomitant bradycardia while URP1 increased P DA and heart rate after injection of only the highest dose of peptide. URP2 did not evoke any cardio-ventilatory or locomotor effect after IA injection. Collectively, these findings support the hypothesis that endogenous UII, URP1 and URP2 in the trout brain may act as neurotransmitters and/or neuromodulators acting synergistically or differentially to control the cardio-respiratory and locomotor systems. In the periphery, the only physiological actions of these peptides might be those related to the well-known cardiovascular regulatory actions of UII. It remains to determine whether the observed divergent physiological effects of UII and URPs are due to differential interaction with the UT receptor or binding to distinct UT subtypes.

Urotensin II promotes vagal-mediated bradycardia by activating cardiac-projecting parasympathetic neurons of nucleus ambiguus

Urotensin II (U-II) is a cyclic undecapeptide that regulates cardiovascular function at central and peripheral sites. The functional role of U-II nucleus ambiguus, a key site controlling cardiac tone, has not been established, despite the identification of U-II and its receptor at this level. We report here that U-II produces an increase in cytosolic Ca(2+) concentration in retrogradely labeled cardiac vagal neurons of nucleus ambiguus via two pathways: (i) Ca(2+) release from the endoplasmic reticulum via inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor; and (ii) Ca(2+) influx through P/Q-type Ca(2+) channels. In addition, U-II depolarizes cultured cardiac parasympathetic neurons. Microinjection of increasing concentrations of U-II into nucleus ambiguus elicits dose-dependent bradycardia in conscious rats, indicating the in vivo activation of the cholinergic pathway controlling the heart rate. Both the in vitro and in vivo effects were abolished by the urotensin receptor antagonist, urantide. Our findings suggest that, in addition, to the previously reported increase in sympathetic outflow, U-II activates cardiac vagal neurons of nucleus ambiguus, which may contribute to cardioprotection.

Pressor and renal regional hemodynamic effects of urotensin II in neonatal pigs

Renal expression of the peptide hormone urotensin II (UII) and its receptor (UTR) are dependent on kidney maturation and anatomical regions. However, renal regional hemodynamic effects of UII in neonates are unclear. Here, we investigated regional hemodynamic responses to acute intrarenal arterial administration of UII in newborn pigs. Western immunoblotting and immunofluorescence confirmed UTR expression and membrane localization in newborn pig renal afferent arterioles and afferent arteriolar smooth muscle cells respectively. Intrarenal arterial bolus injections of human UII (hUII; 1-100  ng/kg) resulted in a dose-dependent decrease in total renal blood flow (RBF) and an increase in mean arterial pressure (MAP) and renal vascular resistance (RVR) in newborn pigs. Moreover, hUII dose dependently reduced cortical blood flow (CBF) but increased medullary blood flow (MBF) in the piglets. hUII-induced MAP elevation and hemodynamic changes were inhibited by urantide, a UTR antagonist, but not losartan, a type 1 angiotensin II receptor antagonist. U-73122, a phospholipase C (PLC) inhibitor, and 2-aminoethoxydiphenyl borate, an inositol 1,4,5 trisphosphate (IP₃) receptor antagonist, attenuated hUII-induced MAP and RVR elevations, RBF and CBF reductions, but not MBF increase. These findings indicate that intrarenal arterial administration of hUII elevates blood pressure and induces region-selective renal hemodynamic changes in newborn pigs. Our data also suggest that the PLC/IP₃ signaling pathway contributes to hUII-induced alterations in MAP, RBF, RVR, and CBF but not MBF in newborn pigs.

Role of urotensin-Ⅱ in the pathogenesis of liver cirrhosis and portal hypertension and collateral circulation

Urotensin-Ⅱ (U-Ⅱ) is a somatostatin-like cyclic peptide which has a potent vasoactive effect and can promote vascular reconstruction and hyperplasia. Research shows that UⅡ plays an important role in the development of liver cirrhosis and portal hypertension. UⅡ influences intrahepatic resistance and splanchnic hemodynamics through a variety of pathways, causing portal hypertension and participating in the formation of esophageal and gastric varices. UⅡ receptor antagonists can reduce portal pressure in cirrhotic rats, but this finding need to be confirmed clinically.

Intracerebroventricular administration of urotensin II regulates food intake and sympathetic nerve activity in brown adipose tissue

To clarify the functional roles of urotensin II in regulating energy balance, we investigated the effects of a central infusion of urotensin II on food intake, uncoupling protein (UCP) 1 mRNA expression, temperature, and sympathetic nervous system activity in brown adipose tissue (BAT), a site that regulates energy expenditure in rodents. A bolus central infusion of urotensin II at a dose of 1 nmol/rat into the third cerebral ventricle decreased food intake (p<0.05). Additionally, urotensin II induced c-Fos-like-immunoreactivity (c-FLI) in the paraventricular nucleus (PVN) as compared with that in the control (phosphate buffered saline [PBS]-treated) group. Furthermore, urotensin II increased BAT UCP 1 mRNA expression (p<0.05). Finally, central infusion of urotensin II significantly increased BAT sympathetic nerve activity, which was accompanied by a significant elevation in BAT temperature (p<0.05) in rats. Taken together, central infusion of urotensin II regulates food intake and BAT sympathetic nerve activity in rats.

Urotensin II, from fish to human

The cyclic peptide urotensin II (UII) was originally isolated from the urophysis of teleost fish on the basis of its ability to contract intestinal smooth muscle. The UII peptide has subsequently been isolated from frog brain and, later on, the pre-proUII cDNA has been characterized in mammals, including humans. A UII paralog called urotensin II-related peptide (URP) has been identified in the rat brain. The UII and URP genes originate from the same ancestral gene as the somatostatin and cortistatin genes. In the central nervous system (CNS) of tetrapods, UII is expressed primarily in motoneurons of the brainstem and spinal cord. The biological actions of UII and URP are mediated through a G protein-coupled receptor, termed UT, that exhibits high sequence similarity with the somatostatin receptors. The UT gene is widely expressed in the CNS and in peripheral organs. Consistent with the broad distribution of UT, UII and URP exert a large array of behavioral effects and regulate endocrine, cardiovascular, renal, and immune functions.

Role of urotensin II in health and disease

Urotensin II (UII) is an 11 amino acid cyclic peptide originally isolated from the goby fish. The amino acid sequence of UII is exceptionally conserved across most vertebrate taxa, sharing structural similarity to somatostatin. UII binds to a class of G protein-coupled receptor known as GPR14 or the urotensin receptor (UT). UII and its receptor, UT, are widely expressed throughout the cardiovascular, pulmonary, central nervous, renal, and metabolic systems. UII is generally agreed to be the most potent endogenous vasoconstrictor discovered to date. Its physiological mechanisms are similar in some ways to other potent mediators, such as endothelin-1. For example, both compounds elicit a strong vascular smooth muscle-dependent vasoconstriction via Ca2+ release. UII also exerts a wide range of actions in other systems, such as proliferation of vascular smooth muscle cells, fibroblasts, and cancer cells. It also 1) enhances foam cell formation, chemotaxis of inflammatory cells, and inotropic and hypertrophic effects on heart muscle; 2) inhibits insulin release, modulates glomerular filtration, and release of catecholamines; and 3) may help regulate food intake and the sleep cycle. Elevated plasma levels of UII and increased levels of UII and UT expression have been demonstrated in numerous diseased conditions, including hypertension, atherosclerosis, heart failure, pulmonary hypertension, diabetes, renal failure, and the metabolic syndrome. Indeed, some of these reports suggest that UII is a marker of disease activity. As such, the UT receptor is emerging as a promising target for therapeutic intervention. Here, a concise review is given on the vast physiologic and pathologic roles of UII.

A rat brain atlas of urotensin-II receptor expression and a review of central urotensin-II effects

Urotensin-II (U-II) is an 11-amino acid cyclic peptide which exerts its actions through a G(q) protein-coupled receptor, UT. Much of the research focus of U-II is as a peptide of the periphery, particularly cardiovascular. Despite this, U-II was originally identified as a neuropeptide, and its expression is broad throughout the central nervous system. This brief review article catalogs the known sites of expression of UT within the CNS in the form of a diagrammatic rat brain atlas. Furthermore, the functional consequences of UT activation within specific brain regions are discussed along with the likely actions of synthetic UT ligands. Areas of high, medium, and low expression include the arcuate, paraventricular, and pedunculopontine tegmental nuclei, respectively. In the arcuate and paraventricular nuclei, where expression is high and moderate, U-II produces a pressor/tachycardic response in the former and a weaker response in the latter. Based on the known pharmacology of UT ligands (and assuming density is the primary determinant of efficacy in this case), we predict a weak response in the arcuate nucleus and possible antagonism of endogenous U-II response in the paraventricular nucleus by a low-efficacy partial agonist. These predicted responses lend themselves to relatively simple experimental verification.

Characterization of urotensin II, distribution of urotensin II, urotensin II-related peptide and UT receptor mRNAs in mouse: evidence of urotensin II at the neuromuscular junction

Urotensin II (UII) and UII-related peptide (URP) are paralog neuropeptides whose existence and distribution in mouse have not yet been investigated. In this study, we showed by HPLC/RIA analysis that the UII-immunoreactive molecule in the mouse brain corresponds to a new UII(17) isoform. Moreover, calcium mobilization assays indicated that UII(17) and URP were equally potent in stimulating UII receptor (UT receptor). Quantitative RT-PCR and in situ hybridization analysis revealed that in the CNS UII and URP mRNAs were predominantly expressed in brainstem and spinal motoneurons. Besides, they were differentially expressed in the medial vestibular nucleus, locus coeruleus and the ventral medulla. In periphery, both mRNAs were expressed in skeletal muscle, testis, vagina, stomach, and gall bladder, whereas only URP mRNA could be detected in the seminal vesicle, heart, colon, and thymus. By contrast, the UT receptor mRNA was widely expressed, and notably, very high amounts of transcript occurred in skeletal muscle and prostate. In the biceps femoris muscle, UII-like immunoreactivity was shown to coexist with synaptophysin in muscle motor end plate regions. Altogether these results suggest that (i) UII and URP may have many redundant biological effects, especially at the neuromuscular junction; (ii) URP may more specifically participate to autonomic, cardiovascular and reproductive functions.

Urotensin II: a new pharmacologic target in the treatment of cardiovascular disease

Urotensin II was first identified over 30 years ago as a potent vasoconstrictor, and the identification of its receptor in the heart, lungs, blood vessels, and brain have made it a potential target for human pharmacotherapy. Current research would suggest that urotensin II plays a major role in the pathophysiology of various cardiovascular disease entities. This article discusses the biologic effects of urotensin under normal and pathophysiologic conditions, and reviews the research experiences with synthetic urotensin blockers in the treatment of various cardiovascular illnesses.

The role of urotensin II in the metabolic syndrome

Urotensin II is a potent vasoconstrictive peptide that mediates both endothelium-independent vasoconstriction and endothelium-dependent vasodilatation. Its plasma level correlates positively with body weight and is raised in diabetes, renal failure, hypertension, and other cardiovascular diseases including congestive heart failure and carotid atherosclerosis. It can inhibit glucose-induced insulin secretion, and genetic variants in urotensin II gene are associated with insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. Urotensin II also affects lipid metabolism in fish and food intake in mice. Recent studies have also demonstrated a role of urotensin II in inflammation and endothelial dysfunction. These findings suggest a close relationship between urotensin II and at least some components of the metabolic syndrome, including hypertension, insulin resistance, hyperglycemia, and inflammation.

Therapeutic potential of blockade of the urotensin II system in systemic hypertension

Urotensin II, an 11-amino acid peptide, has been found to be the most potent vasoconstrictor yet described, in certain vascular beds. Discovery of its endogenous receptor (UII-R) has ignited considerable interest in this system's role in disease states associated with increased vascular tone (eg, systemic hypertension). Urotensin II was shown to have direct effects on the heart in addition to effects on vascular tone. In human systemic hypertension, increased plasma levels of urotensin II were noted, with a weak but significant correlation to absolute blood pressure levels. Furthermore, hypertensive patients demonstrate net vasoconstrictor responsiveness in skin microcirculation compared to normal controls. Highly selective UII-R antagonists have been developed based on the known structure of UII-R. Early preclinical and clinical studies report potential beneficial effects in renal disease, heart failure, and diabetes, although effects on blood pressure have been equivocal.

Role of urotensin II and its receptor in health and disease

Urotensin II (U-II) is currently the most potent vasoconstrictor identified. This action is brought about via activation of a G(q/11)-protein coupled receptor (UT receptor). U-II activation of the UT receptor increases inositol phosphate turnover and intracellular Ca(2+). In addition to producing vasoconstriction, dilation and ionotropic effects have also been described. There is considerable variation in the responsiveness of particular vascular beds from the same and different species, including humans. Receptors for U-II are located peripherally on vascular smooth muscle (contractile responses) and endothelial cells (dilatory responses via nitric oxide). In humans, plasma U-II is elevated in heart failure, renal failure, liver disease, and diabetes. Iontophoresis of U-II in healthy volunteers produces vasodilation (of the forearm) while in patients with heart failure or hypertension a constriction is observed. To date there is only one clinical study using a UT receptor antagonist (palosuran) in diabetic patients with macroalbuminuria. This antagonist reduced albumin excretion, probably by increasing renal blood flow. Studies in other disease conditions are eagerly awaited. In summary, the U-II / UT receptor system has clinical potential, and for the anesthesiologist, this novel peptide-receptor system may be of use in the intensive care unit.

Urotensin II inhibits carotid sinus baroreflex in anesthetized male rats

AIM

To study the effects of urotensin II (UII) on the carotid sinus baroreflex (CSB).

METHODS

The functional curve of carotid sinus baroreflex was measured by recording changes in arterial pressure in anesthetized male rats with perfused isolated carotid sinus.

RESULTS

UII at the concentration of 3 nmol/L had no effect on the CSB, while at the concentration of 30, 300 and 3000 nmol/L inhibited the CSB, shifting the functional curve of the baroreflex upward and to the right. There was a marked decrease in peak slope and reflex decrease in blood pressure. These effects of UII were concentration-dependent. Pretreatment with verapamil (an antagonist of the L-type calcium channel, 10 micromol/L) partially eliminated the above effects of UII (300 nmol/L) on the CSB. Pretreatment with BIM-23127 (3 micromol/L), an antagonist of human and rat UII receptors, abolished the actions of UII on the CSB. Pretreatment with NG-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME) 100 micromol/L did not affect the inhibitory effects of UII (300 nmol/L) on the CSB.

CONCLUSION

These data suggest that UII exerts an inhibitory action on the isolated CSB. Such an action of UII is predominantly mediated by the UII receptors in vascular smooth muscles, resulting in the opening of L-type calcium channels.

Does cigarette smoking increase plasma urotensin II concentrations?

OBJECTIVE

Human urotensin II (UII) acts on the urotensin (UT) receptor and is the most potent mammalian vasoconstrictor identified to date. The role of UII in human cardiovascular regulation remains unclear, and the results of plasma measurements have been conflicting, perhaps because different measurement techniques have been used. The effects of cigarette smoking on plasma UII concentrations are unknown. The primary aim of our study was to demonstrate whether cigarette smoking had any effect on plasma UII concentrations in otherwise healthy volunteers. Our secondary aim was to compare the results obtained from assaying simultaneously using both radioimmunoassay (RIA) and immunoluminometric assay (ILMA).

METHODS

Blood was taken from 20 healthy male non-smokers and 20 healthy male cigarette smokers. Plasma was separated and stored at -70 degrees C. Samples were batch analysed simultaneously for UII using RIA and ILMA.

RESULTS

Median (range) plasma UII concentrations were lower in non-smokers [1.67 (1.0-2.27) pg ml(-1)] compared to smokers [2.62 (1.87-3.46) pg ml(-1)] (P = 0.03) measured using RIA. Those who had smoked a cigarette in the 10 min before sampling had greater concentrations of UII [3.10 (1.87-4.60) pg ml(-1)] compared to controls (P = 0.01). Plasma UII concentrations determined by ILMA were consistently low with no differences between groups.

CONCLUSION

The data obtained by RIA show that smoking may increase plasma concentrations of UII with a more pronounced increase when a cigarette has been smoked recently. There was a complete lack of correlation between RIA and ILMA for the whole data set, which suggests that some of the variability in plasma UII reported in the literature may result from differences between assays.

Urotensin-II induces ear flushing in rats

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

While investigating the effects of systemic urotensin II (U-II), a potent vasoactive peptide acting at the UT receptor, we observed ear pinna flushing after systemic administration to conscious rats. In the present study, U-II-induced ear flushing was quantified in terms of ear pinna temperature change and potential mechanisms were explored.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

U-II-induced ear flushing was quantified by measuring lateral ear pinna temperature changes and compared to that of calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP), a known cutaneous vasodilator. Further, the effects of a variety of pharmacological agents on U-II-induced ear flushing were explored.

KEY RESULTS

Subcutaneous injection of U-II (9 microg kg(-1))produced localized ear pinna flushing with an onset of approximately 15 min, a duration of approximately 30 min and a maximal temperature change of 9 degrees C. In contrast, CGRP caused cutaneous flushing within multiple cutaneous beds including the ear pinna with a shorter onset and greater duration than U-II. A potent UT receptor antagonist, urantide, blocked U-II-induced ear flushing but did not affect CGRP-induced ear flushing. Pretreatment with indomethacin or L-Nomega-nitroarginine methylester (L-NAME) abolished U-II-induced ear flushing. Mecamylamine or propranolol did not affect this response to U-II. Direct intracerebroventricular injection studies suggested that the ear flushing response to U-II was not mediated directly by the CNS.

CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS

Our results suggest that U-II-induced ear flushing and temperature increase is mediated by peripheral activation of the UT receptor and involves prostaglandin- and nitric oxide-mediated vasodilation of small capillary beds in the rat ear pinna.

Human urotensin II as a link between hypertension and coronary artery disease

Hypertension is a well-known risk factor for atherosclerosis, but the molecular mechanisms that link elevated blood pressure to the progression of atherosclerosis remain unclear. Human urotensin II (U-II), the most potent endogenous vasoconstrictor peptide identified to date, and its receptor (UT receptor) are involved in the etiology of essential hypertension. In patients with essential hypertension, U-II infused into the forearm brachial artery has been shown to induce vasoconstriction. Recent studies have demonstrated elevated plasma U-II concentrations in patients with essential hypertension, diabetes mellitus, atherosclerosis, and coronary artery disease. U-II is expressed in endothelial cells, macrophages, macrophage-derived foam cells, and myointimal and medial vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) of atherosclerotic human coronary arteries. UT receptors are present in VSMCs of human coronary arteries, the thoracic aorta and cardiac myocytes. Lymphocytes are the most active producers of U-II, whereas monocytes and macrophages are the major cell types expressing UT receptors, with relatively little receptor expression in foam cells, lymphocytes, and platelets. U-II accelerates foam cell formation by up-regulation of acyl-coenzyme A:cholesterol acyltransferase-1 in human monocyte-derived macrophages. In human endothelial cells, U-II promotes cell proliferation and up-regulates type 1 collagen expression. U-II also activates nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase and plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 in human VSMCs, and stimulates VSMC proliferation with synergistic effects observed when combined with oxidized low-density lipoprotein, lysophosphatidylcholine, reactive oxygen species or serotonin. These findings suggest that U-II plays key roles in accelerating the development of atherosclerosis, thereby leading to coronary artery disease.

Biochemical and functional characterization of high-affinity urotensin II receptors in rat cortical astrocytes

The urotensin II (UII) gene is primarily expressed in the central nervous system, but the functions of UII in the brain remain elusive. Here, we show that cultured rat astrocytes constitutively express the UII receptor (UT). Saturation and competition experiments performed with iodinated rat UII ([(125)I]rUII) revealed the presence of high- and low-affinity binding sites on astrocytes. Human UII (hUII) and the two highly active agonists hUII(4-11) and [3-iodo-Tyr9]hUII(4-11) were also very potent in displacing [(125)I]rUII from its binding sites, whereas the non-cyclic analogue [Ser5,10]hUII(4-11) and somatostatin-14 could only displace [(125)I]rUII binding at micromolar concentrations. Reciprocally, rUII failed to compete with [(125)I-Tyr0,D-Trp8]somatostatin-14 binding on astrocytes. Exposure of cultured astrocytes to rUII stimulated [(3)H]inositol incorporation and increased intracellular Ca(2+) concentration in a dose-dependent manner. The stimulatory effect of rUII on polyphosphoinositide turnover was abolished by the phospholipase C inhibitor U73122, but only reduced by 56% by pertussis toxin. The GTP analogue Gpp(NH)p caused its own biphasic displacement of [(125)I]rUII binding and provoked an affinity shift of the competition curve of rUII. Pertussis toxin shifted the competition curve towards a single lower affinity state. Taken together, these data demonstrate that rat astrocytes express high- and low-affinity UII binding sites coupled to G proteins, the high-affinity receptor exhibiting the same pharmacological and functional characteristics as UT.

Localization of the urotensin II receptor in the rat central nervous system

The vasoactive peptide urotensin II (UII) is primarily expressed in motoneurons of the brainstem and spinal cord. Intracerebroventricular injection of UII provokes various behavioral, cardiovascular, motor, and endocrine responses in the rat, but the distribution of the UII receptor in the central nervous system (CNS) has not yet been determined. In the present study, we have investigated the localization of UII receptor (GPR14) mRNA and UII binding sites in the rat CNS. RT-PCR analysis revealed that the highest density of GPR14 mRNA occurred in the pontine nuclei. In situ hybridization histochemistry showed that the GPR14 gene is widely expressed in the brain and spinal cord. In particular, a strong hybridization signal was observed in the olfactory system, hippocampus, olfactory and medial amygdala, hypothalamus, epithalamus, several tegmental nuclei, locus coeruleus, pontine nuclei, motor nuclei, nucleus of the solitary tract, dorsal motor nucleus of the vagus, inferior olive, cerebellum, and spinal cord. Autoradiographic labeling of brain slices with radioiodinated UII showed the presence of UII-binding sites in the lateral septum, bed nucleus of the stria terminalis, medial amygdaloid nucleus, anteroventral thalamus, anterior pretectal nucleus, pedunculopontine tegmental nucleus, pontine nuclei, geniculate nuclei, parabigeminal nucleus, dorsal endopiriform nucleus, and cerebellar cortex. Intense expression of the GPR14 gene in some hypothalamic nuclei (supraoptic, paraventricular, ventromedian, and arcuate nuclei), in limbic structures (amygdala and hippocampus), in medullary nuclei (solitary tract, dorsal motor nucleus of the vagus), and in motor control regions (cerebral and cerebellar cortex, substantia nigra, pontine nuclei) provides the anatomical substrate for the central effects of UII on behavioral, cardiovascular, neuroendocrine, and motor functions. The occurrence of GPR14 mRNA in cranial and spinal motoneurons is consistent with the reported autocrine/paracrine action of UII on motoneurons.

From heart to mind

The discovery of novel biologically active peptides has led to an explosion in our understanding of the molecular mechanisms that underlie the regulation of sleep and wakefulness. Urotensin II (UII), a peptide originally isolated from fish and known for its strong cardiovascular effects in mammals, is another surprising candidate in the regulatory network of sleep. The UII receptor was found to be expressed by cholinergic neurons of laterodorsal and pedunculopontine tegmental nuclei, an area known to be of utmost importance for the on- and offset of rapid eye movement (REM) sleep. Recently, physiological data have provided further evidence that UII is indeed a modulator of REM sleep. The peptide directly excites cholinergic mesopontine neurons and increases the rate of REM sleep episodes. These new results and its emerging behavioral effects establish UII as a neurotransmitter/neuromodulator in mammals and should spark further interest into the neurobiological role of the peptide.

Behavioral effects of urotensin-II centrally administered in mice

Urotensin-II (U-II) receptors are widely distributed in the central nervous system. Intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.) injection of U-II causes hypertension and bradycardia and stimulates prolactin and thyrotropin secretion. However, the behavioral effects of centrally administered U-II have received little attention. In the present study, we tested the effects of i.c.v. injections of U-II on behavioral, metabolic, and endocrine responses in mice. Administration of graded doses of U-II (1-10,000 ng/mouse) provoked: (1) a dose-dependent reduction in the number of head dips in the hole-board test; (2) a dose-dependent reduction in the number of entries in the white chamber in the black-and-white compartment test, and in the number of entries in the central platform and open arms in the plus-maze test; and (3) a dose-dependent increase in the duration of immobility in the forced-swimming test and tail suspension test. Intracerebroventricular injection of U-II also caused an increase in: food intake at doses of 100 and 1,000 ng/mouse, water intake at doses of 100-10,000 ng/mouse, and horizontal locomotion activity at a dose of 10,000 ng/mouse. Whatever was the dose, the central administration of U-II had no effect on body temperature, nociception, apomorphine-induced penile erection and climbing behavior, and stress-induced plasma corticosterone level. Taken together, the present study demonstrates that the central injection of U-II at doses of 1-10,000 ng/mouse induces anxiogenic- and depressant-like effects in mouse. These data suggest that U-II may be involved in some aspects of psychiatric disorders.

Urotensin II acts as a modulator of mesopontine cholinergic neurons

Urotensin II (UII) is a vasomodulatory peptide that was not predicted to elicit CNS activity. However, because we have recently shown that the urotensin II receptor (UII-R) is selectively expressed in rat mesopontine cholinergic (MPCh) neurons, we hypothesize that UII may have a central function. The present study demonstrates that the UII system is able to modulate MPCh neuron activity. Brain slice experiments demonstrate that UII excites MPCh neurons of the mouse laterodorsal tegmentum (LDTg) by activating a slow inward current. Furthermore, microinfusion of UII into the ventral tegmental area produces a sustained increase in dopamine efflux in the nucleus accumbens, as measured by in vivo chronoamperometry. In agreement with UII activation of MPCh neurons, intracerebroventricular injections of UII significantly modulate ambulatory movements in both rats and mice but do not significantly affect startle habituation or prepulse inhibition. The present study establishes that UII is a neuromodulator that may be exploited to target disorders involving MPCh dysfunction.

Urotensin II: its function in health and its role in disease

Urotensin II (U-II) is the most potent vasoconstrictor known, even more potent than endothelin-1. It was first isolated from the fish spinal cord and has been recognized as a hormone in the neurosecretory system of teleost fish for over 30 years. After the identification of U-II in humans and the orphan human G-protein-coupled receptor 14 as the urotensin II receptor, UT, many studies have shown that U-II may play an important role in cardiovascular regulation. Human urotensin II (hU-II) is an 11 amino acid cyclic peptide, generated by proteolytic cleavage from a precursor prohormone. It is expressed in the central nervous system as well as other tissues, such as kidney, spleen, small intestine, thymus, prostate, pituitary, and adrenal gland and circulates in human plasma. The plasma U-II level is elevated in renal failure, congestive heart failure, diabetes mellitus, systemic hypertension and portal hypertension caused by liver cirrhosis. The effect of U-II on the vascular system is variable, depending on species, vascular bed and calibre of the vessel. The net effect on vascular tone is a balance between endothelium-independent vasoconstriction and endothelium-dependent vasodilatation. U-II is also a neuropeptide and may play a role in tumour development. The development of UT receptor antagonists may provide a useful research tool as well as a novel treatment for cardiorenal diseases.

Cardiac actions of central but not peripheral urotensin II are prevented by beta-adrenoceptor blockade

Urotensin II (UII) is a highly conserved peptide that has potent cardiovascular actions following central and systemic administration. To determine whether the cardiovascular actions of UII are mediated via beta-adrenoceptors, we examined the effect of intravenous (IV) propranolol on the responses to intracerebroventricular (ICV) and IV administration of UII in conscious sheep. Sheep were surgically instrumented with ICV guide tubes and flow probes or cardiac sympathetic nerve recording electrodes. ICV UII (0.2 nmol/kg over 1 h) caused prolonged increases in heart rate (HR; 33 +/- 11 beats/min; P < 0.01), dF/dt (581 +/- 83 L/min/s; P < 0.001) and cardiac output (2.3 +/- 0.4 L/min; P < 0.001), accompanied by increases in coronary (19.8 +/- 5.4 mL/min; P < 0.01), mesenteric (211 +/- 50 mL/min; P < 0.05) and iliac (162 +/- 31 mL/min; P < 0.001) blood flows and plasma glucose (7.0 +/- 2.6 mmol/L; P < 0.05). Propranolol (30 mg bolus followed by 0.5 mg/kg/h IV) prevented the cardiac responses to ICV UII and inhibited the mesenteric vasodilatation. At 2 h after ICV UII, when HR and mean arterial pressure (MAP) were increased, cardiac sympathetic nerve activity (CSNA) was unchanged and the relation between CSNA and diastolic pressure was shifted to the right (P < 0.05). The hyperglycemia following ICV UII was abolished by ganglion blockade but not propranolol. IV UII (20 nmol/kg) caused a transient increase in HR and fall in stroke volume; these effects were not blocked by propranolol. These results demonstrate that the cardiac actions of central UII depend on beta-adrenoreceptor stimulation, secondary to increased CSNA and epinephrine release, whereas the cardiac actions of systemic UII are not mediated by beta-adrenoreceptors and probably depend on a direct action of UII on the heart.

Urotensin-II and the cardiovascular system – the importance of developing modulators

Urotensin-II (U-II) potently contracts some large isolated blood vessels and cardiac tissue. However, the maximum effects on human blood vessels and heart are relatively small. U-II dilates human resistance arteries. It markedly decreased myocardial function and increased vascular resistance in cynomolgus monkeys, but the major effects of U-II have not been observed in healthy humans. A major role for U-II in human cardiovascular disease has not been clearly established despite studies in patients with coronary artery disease, heart failure, essential hypertension and diabetes. Peptide and non-peptide agonists and antagonists of the U-II receptor are being developed and will be useful in the characterisation of the effects of U-II, and may have some therapeutic potential.

Role of ERK and Rho kinase pathways in central pressor action of urotensin II

BACKGROUND

It has been shown that central urotensin II acts on the central nervous system to increase arterial pressure in conscious rats.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the intracellular signal transduction mechanisms of the central cardiovascular action of urotensin II.

METHODS

The effects of intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.) administration of the extracellular signal-regulated protein kinase (ERK) inhibitor, PD 98059 (20 nmol), the phosphatidylinositol 3 (PI3) kinase inhibitor, wortmannin (20 nmol), or the Rho kinase inhibitor, Y-27632 (20 nmol), on cardiovascular responses to i.c.v. urotensin II (10 nmol) were determined in conscious rats.

RESULTS

I.c.v. injection of urotensin II increased both arterial pressure and heart rate (14.9 +/-1.5 mmHg and 94.6 +/-12.8 beats/min, respectively; P < 0.05 for each). Pretreatment with PD 98059 or Y-27632 significantly (P < 0.01 and P < 0.05, respectively) attenuated the pressor response induced by i.c.v. urotensin II (6.6 +/-1.4 and 6.9 +/-1.2 mmHg, respectively). Pretreatment with a mixed solution of PD 98059 and Y-27632 failed to cause further suppression of the urotensin II-induced pressor responses (4.5 +/-0.9 mmHg). In contrast, pretreatment with i.c.v. wortmannin failed to influence the pressor response induced by i.c.v. urotensin II (12.6 +/-1.3 mmHg). The tachycardiac response induced by i.c.v. urotensin II was not influenced by pretreatment with PD 98059, Y-27632 or wortmannin.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggest that the ERK and Rho kinase pathways, but not the PI3 pathway, may be involved in the central pressor action of urotensin II in conscious rats.

Urotensin II in the cardiovascular system

Urotensin II is a peptide present, together with its receptor, in the central nervous system and many peripheral tissues (including heart, blood vessels, kidneys and endocrine organs) of many species. The bioactive, mature form contains a cyclic heptapeptide perfectly preserved across species spanning 550 million years of evolution Its biological activity has been explored in cultured cells, in isolated vessels from several species, in the isolated perfused heart and in intact animals and man. Initial demonstration of potent vasoconstriction and cardiac depression by the human isoform in non-human primates has been followed by a series of reports indicating potent but highly variable and generally modest vascular responses dependent on species and vascular region. In man short term cardiovascular responses to administered urotensin II are small or absent. The place of urotensin II in the chronic trophic responses to cardiac and vascular injury and its possible roles as a neurotransmitter and/or regulator of renal and endocrine function remain largely unexplored.

Role of urotensin II in peripheral tissue as an autocrine/paracrine growth factor

Urotensin II (UII), originally isolated from goby urophysis, has been shown to be an endogenous ligand for an orphan G-protein-coupled receptor, GPR14. Recent development of PCR quantitative method revealed that UII and UT receptor (GPR14) were expressed in a broad range of tissues and organs, including cardiovascular and renal system, and assumed to function as an autocrine/paracrine factor. UII is a potent vasoconstrictor peptide, whose potency is greater than any other vasoconstrictors thus far known. However, its physiological roles have been found to extend far beyond the regulation of vascular tone. In this review, we focused on the mitogenic action of UII and discuss its underlying cellular mechanisms and potential physiological/pathophysiological role in various human diseases.

Bolus injection of human UII in conscious rats evokes a biphasic haemodynamic response

A biphasic cardiovascular response to bolus i.v. injection of human urotensin II (hUII, 3 nmol kg(-1)) in conscious, male, Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats was identified and underlying mechanisms were explored. Initially (0-5 min) there was tachycardia, hypotension and mesenteric and hindquarters vasodilatation; later (30-120 min), tachycardia, hindquarters vasodilatation and a modest rise in blood pressure occurred. Pretreatment with indomethacin or N(G) nitro-l-arginine methylester (l-NAME) reduced the mesenteric vasodilator response to hUII, and abolished the late tachycardia and hindquarters vasodilatation. Indomethacin also abolished the hypotension and early hindquarters vasodilatation, and substantially reduced the initial tachycardia. Indomethacin and l-NAME together prevented all haemodynamic responses to hUII. Inhibition of inducible NOS had no effect on responses to hUII, whereas inhibition of neuronal NOS reduced the delayed tachycardic response to hUII but did not significantly affect the vasodilatation. Only the initial tachycardic response to hUII was antagonised by propranolol. In spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR), the initial haemodynamic responses to hUII were qualitatively similar to those in SD rats, although there was also a modest renal vasodilatation. The secondary response comprised a smaller tachycardia and a small rise in blood pressure, with no significant hindquarters vasodilatation. Haemodynamic responses to hUII were not enhanced by endothelin and angiotensin receptor antagonism in either SD rats or in SHRs. One interpretation of these results is that the primary response to bolus injection of hUII is prostanoid- or prostanoid- and NO-mediated (mesenteric vasodilatation) and that this triggers secondary events, which are dependent on eNOS (hindquarters vasodilatation) and neuronal NOS (tachycardia).

Central effects of native urotensin II on motor activity, ventilatory movements, and heart rate in the trout Oncorhynchus mykiss

Urotensin II (UII) has been originally isolated from fish urophysis. However, in fish as in mammals, UII is also produced in brain neurons. Although UII binding sites are widely distributed in the fish central nervous system (CNS), little is known regarding its central activities. In the present study, we have investigated the effects of intracerebroventricular (ICV) administration of synthetic trout UII on the duration of motor activity (ACT; evidenced by bursts of activity on the trace of the ventilatory signal), ventilatory frequency (VF), ventilatory amplitude (VA), and heart rate (HR) in unanesthesized trout, Oncorhynchus mykiss. ICV injection of very low doses of UII (1 and 5 pmol) produced a dose-dependent increase of ACT without affecting VF, VA, or HR. At a higher dose (50 pmol), UII stimulated ACT as well as VF, VA, and HR. ICV injection of trout angiotensin II (5 pmol) did not affect ACT, VF, and VA, but provoked a robust increase in HR. These data provide the first evidence that central administration of UII stimulates motor activity in a nonmammalian vertebrate.

Cardiovascular role of urotensin II: effect of chronic infusion in the rat

Urotensin II (UII) is a potent vaso-active peptide thought to have multiple roles in the regulation of cardiovascular physiology and pathophysiology. The actions of UII are complex and difficult to interpret given its systemic hemodynamic effects and variable action on different vascular beds and isolated vessels. Direct effects of UII on the myocardium, include myocyte hypertrophy, extracellular matrix deposition and contractility. These observations, together with elevated plasma levels found in disease, are common traits reported in other pathophysiologically implicated neurohormonal systems. In this review, we include original data obtained from chronic infusion of UII in rats. We report a reduction in first derivative of left ventricular pressure (+dP/dt), as well as an increase in the ratio of left ventricular collagen I:III, that may contribute to the reduced myocardial contractility observed in these animals.

Urotensin II, a novel peptide in central and peripheral cardiovascular control

Urotensin II (UII) is a peptide that was originally isolated and characterized in fish. Interest in its effects in mammals increased with the identification of its receptor, G-protein coupled receptor 14, and its localization in humans. UII and its receptor have a wide distribution, including brain and spinal cord as well as heart, kidney and liver, implying that UII has important physiological actions. Recent studies suggest that UII may play an important role in the central nervous system. In conscious sheep, intracerebroventricular administration of UII induced large, prolonged increases in plasma epinephrine, adrenocorticotropic hormone, cardiac output and arterial pressure. Potent chronotropic and inotropic actions accompanied this, as well as peripheral vasodilatation. Administered intravenously, UII is an extremely potent vasoconstrictor in anesthetized monkeys, but reduces pressure in conscious and anesthetized rats, and causes a transient increase in conscious sheep, however vasomotor responses vary depending on species and vessel type. UII is elevated in conditions such as essential hypertension and heart failure suggesting a role in pathology. The results of studies with UII to date, together with its possible role in disease, emphasize the importance of examining the central and peripheral roles of UII in more detail.

Emerging roles of urotensin-II in cardiovascular disease

Urotensin-II (UII) is a highly potent endogenous peptide within the cardiovascular system. Through stimulation of Galphaq-coupled UT receptors, UII mediates contraction of vascular smooth muscle and endothelial-dependent vasorelaxation, and positive inotropy in human right atrium and ventricle. A pathogenic role of the UT receptor system is emerging in cardiovascular disease states, with evidence for up-regulation of the UT receptor system in patients with congestive heart failure (CHF), pulmonary hypertension, cirrhosis and portal hypertension, and chronic renal failure. In vitro and in vivo studies show that under pathophysiological conditions, UII might contribute to cardiomyocyte hypertrophy, extracellular matrix production, enhanced vasoconstriction, vascular smooth muscle cell hyperplasia, and endothelial cell hyper-permeability. Single nucleotide polymorphisms of the UII gene may also impart a genetic predisposition of patients to diabetes. Therefore, the UT receptor system is a potential therapeutic target in the treatment of cardiac, pulmonary, and renal diseases. UT receptor antagonists are currently being developed to prevent and/or reverse the effects of over-activated UT receptors by the endogenous ligand. This review describes UII peptide and converting enzymes, and UT receptors in the cardiovascular system, focusing on pathophysiological roles of UII in the heart and blood vessels.

Central cardiovascular action of urotensin II in spontaneously hypertensive rats

We have previously reported that urotensin II acts on the central nervous system to increase blood pressure in normotensive rats. In the present study, we have determined the central cardiovascular action of urotensin II in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR). Intracerebroventricular (ICV) injection of urotensin II elicited a dose-dependent increase in blood pressure in both SHR and normotensive Wistar-Kyoto rats (WKY). The changes in mean arterial pressure induced by ICV urotensin II at doses of 1 and 10 nmol in the WKY were 8 +/- 2 and 23 +/- 3 mmHg, respectively. ICV administration of urotensin II caused significantly greater increases in blood pressure in SHR (16 +/- 3 mmHg at 1 nmol and 35 +/- 3 mmHg at 10 nmol, respectively) compared with those in WKY. Urotensin II (10 nmol) elicited significant and comparable increases in heart rate in SHR (107 +/- 10 bpm) and WKY (101 +/- 21 bpm). Plasma epinephrine concentrations after ICV administration of 10 nmol urotensin II were 203 +/- 58 pmol/ml in SHR and 227 +/- 47 pmol/ml in WKY, which tended to be higher than those in artificial cerebrospinal fluid-injected rats (73+/- 7 and 87 +/- 28 pmol/ml, respectively, p < 0.1). The immunoreactivity of urotensin II receptor GPR 14 was expressed extensively in the glial cells within the brainstem, hypothalamus, and thalamus. These results suggest that central urotensin II may play a role in the pathogenesis of hypertension in SHR. Since GPR 14 was expressed in the glial cells of the brain, urotensin II may act as a neuromodulator to regulate blood pressure.

Urotensin-II, a neuropeptide ligand for GPR14, induces c-fos in the rat brain

The vasoactive peptide urotensin-II and its receptor, GPR14 (now known as UT receptor), are localised in the mammalian central nervous system. Accordingly, various centrally mediated effects of urotensin-II on behaviour, neuroendocrine hormones and neurochemistry have been described. To investigate neuroanatomical substrates for the central actions of urotensin-II, expression of the immediate early gene c-fos was examined following intracerebroventricular administration to rats. Urotensin-II increased Fos expression in the cingulate cortex and periaqueductal grey, suggesting important central roles for urotensin-II and its receptor.

Urotensin-II: a novel systemic hypertensive factor in the cat

Urotensin-II, a potent mammalian vasoconstrictor, may play a role in the etiology of essential hypertension. However, a species suitable for assessing such a role, one where a "classical" systemic hypertensive response (increase in mean blood pressure and systemic vascular resistance) is observed following bolus i.v. urotensin-II administration, has yet to be identified. The present study demonstrates that the cat may represent such a species since urotensin-II potently (pEC(50)s 9.68+/-0.24-8.73+/-0.08) and efficaciously (E(max) 73+/-15%-205+/-21% KCl) constricts all feline isolated arteries studied (aortae, renal, femoral, carotid, and mesenteric conduit/resistance). Accordingly, exogenous urotensin-II (1 nmol/kg, i.v.) effectively doubles both mean blood pressure (from 99+/-14 to 183+/-15 mmHg) and systemic vascular resistance (from 0.36+/-0.12 to 0.86+/-0.20 mmHg/ml/min) in the anaesthetized cat (without altering heart rate or stroke volume). Thus, in view of these profound contractile effects, the cat could be suitable for determining the effects of urotensin-II receptor antagonism on cardiovascular homeostasis in both normal and diseased states.

Urotensin II acts centrally to increase epinephrine and ACTH release and cause potent inotropic and chronotropic actions

Urotensin II is a small peptide whose receptor was recently identified in mammals as the orphan G protein-coupled receptor-14. The reported cardiovascular responses to systemic urotensin II administration are variable, and there is little detailed information on its central cardiovascular actions. We examined the cardiovascular and humoral actions of intracerebroventricular urotensin II (0.02 and 0.2 nmol/kg and vehicle) and intravenous urotensin II (2, 20, and 40 nmol/kg and vehicle) in conscious ewes previously surgically implanted with flow probes and intracerebroventricular guide tubes. Two hours after intracerebroventricular infusion of urotensin II (0.2 nmol/kg over 1 hour; n=5), heart rate (+56+/-13 beats per minute [bpm]), dF/dt (an index of cardiac contractility; +533+/-128 L x min(-1) x s(-1)), and cardiac output (+3.4+/-0.4 L/min) increased significantly compared with vehicle, as did renal, mesenteric, and iliac blood flows and conductances. Plasma epinephrine, adrenocorticotropic hormone, and glucose levels also increased dramatically (+753+/-166 pg/mL, +14.3+/-3.5 pmol/L, and +7.0+/-1.4 mmol/L, respectively). All of these variables remained elevated for up to 4 hours after infusion. In contrast, 1 hour after intravenous urotensin II (40 nmol/kg bolus; n=6), a sustained tachycardia (+25+/-8 bpm) ensued, but cardiac output, cardiac contractility, total peripheral conductance, and plasma glucose levels did not change significantly. In summary, this is the first study to show that urotensin II acts centrally to stimulate sympathoadrenal and pituitary-adrenal pathways, resulting in increased adrenocorticotropic hormone and epinephrine release and potent chronotropic and inotropic actions. In contrast, tachycardia was the only major response to intravenous urotensin II. These findings suggest that urotensin II is a novel stimulator of central pathways that mediate responses to alerting stimuli or stress.

Deletion of the UT receptor gene results in the selective loss of urotensin-II contractile activity in aortae isolated from UT receptor knockout mice

1 Urotensin-II (U-II) is among the most potent mammalian vasoconstrictors identified and may play a role in the aetiology of essential hypertension. Currently, only one mouse U-II receptor (UT) gene has been cloned. It is postulated that this protein is solely responsible for mediating U-II-induced vasoconstriction. 2 This hypothesis has been investigated in the present study, which assessed basal haemodynamics and vascular reactivity to hU-II in wild-type (UT((+/+))) and UT receptor knockout (UT((-/-))) mice. 3 Basal left ventricular end-diastolic and end-systolic volumes/pressures, stroke volumes, mean arterial blood pressures, heart rates, cardiac outputs and ejection fractions in UT((+/+)) mice and in UT((-/-)) mice were similar. 4 Relative to UT((+/+)) mouse isolated thoracic aorta, where hU-II was a potent spasmogen (pEC(50)=8.26+/-0.08) that evoked relatively little vasoconstriction (17+/-2% 60 mM KCl), vessels isolated from UT((-/-)) mice did not respond to hU-II. However, in contrast, the superior mesenteric artery isolated from both the genotypes did not contract in the presence of hU-II. Reactivity to unrelated vasoconstrictors (phenylephrine, endothelin-1, KCl) and endothelium-dependent/independent vasodilator agents (carbachol, sodium nitroprusside) was similar in the aorta and superior mesenteric arteries isolated from both the genotypes. 5 The present study is the first to directly link hU-II-induced vasoconstriction with the UT receptor. Deletion of the UT receptor gene results in loss of hU-II contractile action with no 'nonspecific' alterations in vascular reactivity. However, as might be predicted based on the limited contractile efficacy recorded in vitro, the contribution that hU-II and its receptor make to basal systemic haemodynamics appears to be negligible in this species.

Magnifying endoscopic observation of the gastric mucosa, particularly in patients with atrophic gastritis

The gastric mucosal surface was observed using the magnifying fibergastroscope (FGS-ML), and the fine gastric mucosal patterns, which were even smaller than one unit of gastric area, were examined at a magnification of about 30. For simplicification, we classified these patterns by magnifying endoscopy in the following ways; FP, FIP, FSP, SP and MP, modifying Yoshii's classification under the dissecting microscope. The FIP, which was found to have round and long elliptical gastric pits, is a new addition to our endoscopic classification. The relationship between the FIP and the intermediate zone was evaluated by superficial and histological studies of surgical and biopsy specimens. The width of the band of FIP seems to be related to the severity of atrophic gastritis. Also, the transformation of FP to FIP was assessed by comparing specimens taken from the resected and residual parts of the stomach, respectively. Moreover, it appears that severe gastritis occurs in the gastric mucosa which shows a FIP. Therefore, we consider that the FIP indicates the position of the atrophic border.