Nucleotides as extracellular signalling molecules

ATP-Responsive Liposomes via Screening of Lipid Switches Designed to Undergo Conformational Changes upon Binding Phosphorylated Metabolites

Liposomal delivery vehicles can dramatically enhance drug transport. However, their clinical application requires enhanced control over content release at diseased sites. For this reason, triggered release strategies have been explored, although a limited toolbox of stimuli has thus far been developed. Here, we report a novel strategy for stimuli-responsive liposomes that release encapsulated contents in the presence of phosphorylated small molecules. Our formulation efforts culminated in selective cargo release driven by ATP, a universal energy source that is upregulated in diseases such as cancer. Specifically, we developed lipid switches 1a-b bearing two ZnDPA units designed to undergo substantial conformational changes upon ATP binding, thereby disrupting membrane packing and triggering the release of encapsulated contents. Dye leakage assays using the hydrophobic dye Nile red validated that ATP-driven release was selective over 11 similar phosphorylated metabolites, and release of the hydrophilic dye calcein was also achieved. Multiple alternative lipid switch structures were synthesized and studied (1c-d and 2), which provided insights into the structural features that render 1a-b selective toward ATP-driven release. Importantly, analysis of cellular delivery using fluorescence microscopy in conjunction with pharmacological ATP manipulation showed that liposome delivery was specific, as it increased upon intracellular ATP accumulation, and was inhibited by ATP downregulation. Our new approach shows strong prospects for enhancing the selectivity of release and payload delivery to diseased cells driven by metabolites such as ATP, providing an exciting new paradigm for controlled release.

D-serine in the midbrain periaqueductal gray contributes to morphine tolerance in rats

BACKGROUND

The N-methyl-D-aspartate subtype of glutamate receptor plays a critical role in morphine tolerance. D-serine, a co-agonist of N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor, participates in many physiological and pathophysiological processes via regulating N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor activation. The purinergic P2X7 receptor activation can induce the D-serine release in the central nervous system. This study aimed to investigate the role of the ventrolateral midbrain periaqueductal gray D-serine in the mechanism of morphine tolerance in rats. The development of morphine tolerance was induced in normal adult male Sprague-Dawley rats through subcutaneous injection of morphine (10 mg/kg). The analgesic effect of morphine (5 mg/kg, i.p.) was assessed by measuring mechanical withdrawal thresholds in rats with an electronic von Frey anesthesiometer. The D-serine concentration and serine racemase expression levels in the ventrolateral midbrain periaqueductal gray were evaluated through enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and Western blot analysis, respectively. The effects of intra-ventrolateral midbrain periaqueductal gray injections of the D-serine degrading enzyme D-amino acid oxidase and antisense oligodeoxynucleotide targeting the P2X7 receptor on chronic morphine-treated rats were also explored.

RESULTS

We found that repeated morphine administrations decreased the antinociceptive potency of morphine evidenced by the percent changes in mechanical pain threshold in rats. By contrast, the D-serine contents and the expression levels of the serine racemase protein were upregulated in the ventrolateral midbrain periaqueductal gray in morphine-tolerant rats. The development of morphine tolerance was markedly alleviated by intra-ventrolateral midbrain periaqueductal gray injections of D-amino acid oxidase or antisense oligodeoxynucleotide targeting the P2X7 receptor.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data indicate that the development of antinociceptive tolerance to morphine is partially mediated by ventrolateral midbrain periaqueductal gray D-serine content, and the activation of the ventrolateral midbrain periaqueductal gray P2X7 receptor is an essential prelude to D-serine release. These results suggest that a cascade involving P2X7 receptor-D-serine-N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor mediated signaling pathway in the supraspinal mechanism of morphine tolerance.

Activation of P2X7 receptors in the midbrain periaqueductal gray of rats facilitates morphine tolerance

Opiates such as morphine exhibit analgesic effect in various pain models, but repeated and chronic morphine administration may develop resistance to antinociception. The purinergic signaling system is involved in the mechanisms of pain modulation and morphine tolerance. This study aimed to determine whether the P2X7 receptor in the ventrolateral midbrain periaqueductal gray (vlPAG) is involved in morphine tolerance. Development of tolerance to the antinociceptive effect of morphine was induced in normal adult male Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats through subcutaneous injection of morphine (10mg/kg). The analgesic effect of morphine (5mg/kg, i.p.) was assessed by measuring mechanical withdrawal thresholds (MWTs) in rats with an electronic von Frey anesthesiometer. The expression levels and distribution of the P2X7 receptor in the vlPAG was evaluated through Western blot analysis and immunohistochemistry. The acute effects of intra-vlPAG injection of the selective P2X7 receptor agonist Bz-ATP, the selective P2X7 receptor antagonist A-740003, or antisense oligodeoxynucleotide (AS ODN) targeting the P2X7 receptor on morphine-treated rats were also observed. Results demonstrated that repeated morphine administration decreased the mechanical pain thresholds. By contrast, the expression of the P2X7 receptor protein was up-regulated in the vlPAG in morphine tolerant rats. The percent changes in MWT were markedly but only transiently attenuated by intra-vlPAG injection of Bz-ATP (9nmol/0.3μL) but elevated by A-740003 at doses of 10 and 100nmol/0.3μL. AS ODN (15nmol/0.3μL) against the P2X7 receptor reduced the development of chronic morphine tolerance in rats. These results suggest that the development of antinociceptive tolerance to morphine is partially mediated by activating the vlPAG P2X7 receptors. The present data also suggest that the P2X7 receptors may be a therapeutic target for improving the analgesic effect of morphine in treatments of pain when morphine tolerance occurs.

Xenin-25 increases cytosolic free calcium levels and acetylcholine release from a subset of myenteric neurons

Xenin-25 (Xen) is a 25 amino acid neurotensin-related peptide reportedly produced with glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) by a subset of K cells in the proximal gut. We previously showed exogenously administered Xen, with GIP but not alone, increases insulin secretion in humans and mice. In mice, this effect is indirectly mediated via a central nervous system-independent cholinergic relay in the periphery. Xen also delays gastric emptying, reduces food intake, induces gall bladder contractions, and increases gut motility and secretion from the exocrine pancreas, suggesting that some effects of Xen could be mediated by myenteric neurons (MENs). To determine whether Xen activates these neurons, MENs were isolated from guinea pig proximal small intestines. Cells expressed neuronal markers and exhibited typical neuron-like morphology with extensive outgrowths emanating from cell bodies. Cytosolic free Ca(2+) levels ([Ca(2+)](i)) were measured using Fura-2. ATP/UTP, KCl, and forskolin increased [Ca(2+)](i) in 99.6%, 92%, and 23% of the MENs imaged, respectively, indicating that they are functional and activated by nucleotide receptor signaling, direct depolarization, and cAMP. [Ca(2+)](i) increased in only 12.7% of MENs treated with Xen. This rise was blocked by pretreatment with EGTA, diazoxide, SR48692, and neurotensin. Thus the Xen-mediated increase in [Ca(2+)](i) involves influx of extracellular Ca(2+) and activation of neurotensin receptor-1 (NTSR1). Xen also increased acetylcholine release from MENs. Amylin, produced by β-and enteroendocrine cells, delays gastric emptying and increased [Ca(2+)](i) almost exclusively in Xen-responsive MENs. Immunohistochemistry demonstrated NTSR1 expression in human duodenal MENs. Thus myenteric rather than central neurons could mediate some effects of Xen and amylin.

Electron tomographic analysis of gap junctions in lateral giant fibers of crayfish

Innexin-gap junctions in crayfish lateral giant fibers (LGFs) have an important role in escape behavior as a key component of rapid signal transduction. Knowledge of the structure and function of characteristic vesicles on the both sides of the gap junction, however, is limited. We used electron tomography to analyze the three-dimensional structure of crayfish gap junctions and gap junctional vesicles (GJVs). Tomographic analyses showed that some vesicles were anchored to innexons and almost all vesicles were connected by thin filaments. High densities inside the GJVs and projecting densities on the GJV membranes were observed in fixed and stained samples. Because the densities inside synaptic vesicles were dependent on the fixative conditions, different fixative conditions were used to elucidate the molecules included in the GJVs. The projecting densities on the GJVs were studied by immunoelectron microscopy with anti-vesicular monoamine transporter (anti-VMAT) and anti-vesicular nucleotide transporter (anti-VNUT) antibodies. Some of the projecting densities were labeled by anti-VNUT, but not anti-VMAT. Three-dimensional analyses of GJVs and excitatory chemical synaptic vesicles (CSVs) revealed clear differences in their sizes and central densities. Furthermore, the imaging data obtained under different fixative conditions and the immunolabeling results, in which GJVs were positively labeled for anti-VNUT but excitatory CSVs were not, support our model that GJVs contain nucleotides and excitatory CSVs do not. We propose a model in which characteristic GJVs containing nucleotides play an important role in the signal processing in gap junctions of crayfish LGFs.

A global analysis of cross-talk in a mammalian cellular signalling network

Cellular information processing requires the coordinated activity of a large network of intracellular signalling pathways. Cross-talk between pathways provides for complex non-linear responses to combinations of stimuli, but little is known about the density of these interactions in any specific cell. Here, we have analysed a large-scale survey of pathway interactions carried out by the Alliance for Cellular Signalling (AfCS) in RAW 264.7 macrophages. Twenty-two receptor-specific ligands were studied, both alone and in all pairwise combinations, for Ca2+ mobilization, cAMP synthesis, phosphorylation of many signalling proteins and for cytokine production. A large number of non-additive interactions are evident that are consistent with known mechanisms of cross-talk between pathways, but many novel interactions are also revealed. A global analysis of cross-talk suggests that many external stimuli converge on a relatively small number of interaction mechanisms to provide for context-dependent signalling.

Site of ATP and phenylephrine synergistic stimulation of vasopressin release from the hypothalamo-neurohypophyseal system

ATP and norepinephrine are neurotransmitters carrying cardiovascular information to vasopressin (AVP) neurones. As shown previously, exposure of hypothalamo-neurohypophyseal system explants to ATP and phenylephrine (PE) (alpha(1)-adrenergic agonist) causes a significantly larger increase in AVP release than with either agent alone and converts the response from a transient to a sustained stimulation of AVP release. Potential mechanisms for this synergism include presynaptic stimulation of excitatory afferent input (i.e. glutamate release), postsynaptic activation of receptors on AVP neurones, modulation of stimulus-secretion coupling in the neural lobe and/or involvement of glial/neuronal interactions. The response to ATP + PE (100 microM each) was not altered in the presence of either a cocktail of ionotropic glutamate receptor antagonists (CNQX + AP5) or a nonselective metabotropic glutamate receptor antagonist [(RS)-alpha-methyl-4-carboxyphenylglycine]. Thus, it is not dependent on activation of glutamate receptors. Treatment with tetrodotoxin (3 microM) eliminated the response to ATP + PE. Because this could reflect blockade of action potentials propagated from the AVP perikarya to the nerve terminals in the neural lobe or action potentials generated in the neural lobe directly, synergism in the neural lobe was addressed by perifusing isolated neural lobes with ATP and PE alone or together. Synergistic stimulation of AVP release by ATP + PE was not observed in isolated, perifused neural lobes. Thus, the synergistic effect persists in the absence of glutamate transmission, is not due to synergistic actions of P(2) and alpha(1)-adrenergic receptors occurring at the level of the neural lobe and requires action potentials in either the hypothalamus or neural lobe.

Mitochondrial P2Y-Like receptors link cytosolic adenosine nucleotides to mitochondrial calcium uptake

ATP is a known extracellular ligand for cell membrane purinergic receptors. Intracellular ATP can work also as a regulatory ligand via binding sites on functional proteins. We report herein the existence of P2Y(1)-like and P2Y(2)-like receptors in hepatocyte mitochondria (mP2Y(1) and mP2Y(2)), which regulate mCa(2+) uptake though the uniporter. Mitochondrial P2Y(1) activation stimulates mCa(2+) uptake; whereas, mP2Y(2) activation inhibits mCa(2+) uptake. ATP acts preferentially on mP2Y(2) receptors, while ADP and AMP-PNP stimulate both the mP2Y(1) and mP2Y(2). PPADS inhibits ADP stimulated mP2Y(1)-mediated mCa(2+) uptake. In addition, UTP, a selective P2Y(2) agonist, strongly inhibits mCa(2+) uptake. The newly discovered presence and function of these receptors is significant because it explains increased mCa(2+) uptake in the setting of low cytosolic [ATP] and, therefore, establishes a mechanism for direct feedback in which cytosolic [ATP] governs mitochondrial ATP production through regulation of mCa(2+) uptake.

Vasopressin response to osmotic and hemodynamic stress: neurotransmitter involvement

Osmotic and hemodynamic stress are the two primary regulators of vasopressin (VP) release from the posterior pituitary. The pathways providing information about plasma osmolality and blood pressure or blood volume are distinct and utilize different chemical neurotransmitters. Osmotic regulation of VP release is dependent upon afferents from the lamina terminalis region. Glutamate is an important transmitter in this system and angiotensinergic afferents from this region to the VP neurons modulate responses to osmotic challenges. Hemodynamic information is transmitted to the VP neurons via multisynaptic pathways from the brainstem with the A1 catecholamine neurons of the ventrolateral medulla providing the final link for information about decreases in blood pressure and volume. Several neurotransmitters and neuropeptides are expressed in the A1 neurons including norepinephrine (NE), ATP, neuropeptide Y, and substance P. The impact of co-release of these agents on VP release is reviewed and the potential physiological significance is discussed.

Neuroepithelial cells and associated innervation of the zebrafish gill: a confocal immunofluorescence study

Peripheral chemoreceptors responsive to hypoxia have been well characterized in air-breathing vertebrates, but poorly in water-breathers. The present study examined the distribution of five populations of neuroepithelial cells (NECs), putative O(2) chemoreceptors, and innervation patterns in the zebrafish gill using whole-mounts and confocal immunofluorescence. Nerve bundles and fibers of the gill were labeled with zn-12 (a zebrafish-specific neuronal marker) and SV2 antisera and NECs were characterized by serotonin (5-HT) immunoreactivity (IR), SV2-IR and the purinoceptor P2X(3)-IR. A zn-12-IR nerve bundle extended the length of the gill filament and gave rise to a nerve plexus surrounding the efferent filament artery (eFA) and a rich network of fibers that innervated both serotonergic and nonserotonergic NECs of the filament and lamellar epithelium. Three populations of serotonergic, SV2-IR neurons intrinsic to the gill filaments are described, one of which provided innervation to NECs of the filament epithelium. Degeneration of nerve fibers in gill arches maintained in explant culture for 2 days revealed the extrinsic origin of nerve fibers of the plexus and lamellae and the innervation of filament NECs by both intrinsic and extrinsic fibers. Intrinsic innervation surrounding the eFA survived in explant cultures, suggesting a mechanism of local vascular control within the gill. In addition, NECs survived in explants after degeneration of extrinsic nerve fibers. Thus, NECs of the zebrafish gill are organized in a manner reminiscent of O(2) chemoreceptors of mammalian vertebrates, suggesting a role in respiratory regulation.

A retrospective of recombinant P2Y receptor subtypes and their pharmacology

Since the first cloning of P2Y receptor sequences in 1993 it has become apparent that this family of G-protein-coupled receptors is omnipresent. At least 25 individual sequences entered in the GenBank sequence database encode P2Y receptors from a variety of species ranging from the little skate Raja erinacea to man. In man, six receptor subtypes have been cloned and found to be functionally active (P2Y(1), P2Y(2), P2Y(4), P2Y(6), P2Y(11), and P2Y(12)). In this article a review of the P2Y receptor subtypes is presented considering both their sequences and the pharmacological profiles of the encoded receptors expressed in heterologous expression systems.

P2X7-like receptor activation in astrocytes increases chemokine monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 expression via mitogen-activated protein kinase

Leukocyte infiltration in the CNS after trauma or inflammation is triggered in part by upregulation of the chemokine, monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1), in astrocytes. However the signals that induce the upregulation of MCP-1 in astrocytes are unknown. We have investigated the roles for ATP P2X7 receptor activation because ATP is an intercellular signaling transmitter that is released in both trauma and inflammation and P2X7 receptors are involved in immune system signaling. Astrocytes in primary cell culture and acutely isolated from the hippocampus were immunopositive for P2X7 receptors. In astrocyte cultures, application of the selective P2X7 agonist, benzoyl-benzoyl ATP (Bz-ATP), activated MAP kinases extracellular signal receptor-activated kinase 1 (ERK1), ERK2, and p38. Purinergic antagonists depressed this activation with a profile suggesting P2X7 receptors. Bz-ATP also increased MCP-1 expression in cultured astrocytes, and again P2X7 antagonists prevented this increase. Blocking either the ERK1/ERK2 or the p38 pathway (with PD98059 or SB203580, respectively) significantly inhibited Bz-ATP-induced MCP-1 expression. Coapplication of both antagonists caused a greater depression. We also tested the roles for ATP receptor activation in inducing MCP-1 upregulation in corticectomy, an in vivo model of trauma. This model of cortical trauma was previously shown to increase MCP-1 expression in vivo principally in astrocytes. Suramin, a wide-spectrum purinergic receptor antagonist, significantly depressed the rapid (3 hr) trauma-induced increase in MCP-1 mRNA. These data indicate that purinergic transmitter receptors in astrocytes are important in regulating chemokine synthesis. The regulation of MCP-1 in astrocytes by ATP may be important in mediating communication with hematopoietic inflammatory cells.

Presence and functional significance of neuropeptide and neurotransmitter receptors in subcommissural organ cells

The subcommissural organ (SCO) of mammals is innervated by several neuropeptide and neurotransmitter systems. So far, substance P (SP), oxytocin (OXT), vasopressin (VP), somatostatin (SOM), thyrotropin-releasing factor (TRF), and angiotensin II (ANGII) were identified in neuropeptidergic input systems, and serotonin (5HT), gamma-amino butyric acid (GABA), noradrenaline (NA), dopamine (DA), and acetylcholine (Ach) were neurotransmitters observed in systems afferent to the SCO. In the present report, based on literature data and our own investigations, we describe the occurrence of peptide and transmitter receptors in the SCO by means of autoradiographic and biochemical studies. Further, we summarize aspects of the signal transduction cascades possibly linked to different receptor types of the SCO; these studies included the use of calcium imaging (FURA-2 technique), ELISA technique, and immunocytochemistry. Receptors were identified for adenosine, angiotensin II, imidazoline, glucocorticoids, mineralocorticoids, NA, and embryonic brain kinase. The studies on intracellular signal-transduction indicated receptors for tachykinins and for ATP. In SCO cells, Ca(++) and c-AMP were identified to act as second messengers. As important transcription factor, cAMP-/Ca(++)-response element binding protein (CREB) was observed. Ach and NA did not show a significant effect on the subcommissural signal transduction.

Purinergic and adrenergic agonists synergize in stimulating vasopressin and oxytocin release

The A1 catecholamine neurons of the caudal ventrolateral medulla transmit hemodynamic information to the vasopressin (VP) neurons in the hypothalamus. These neurons corelease ATP with norepinephrine. Perifused explants of the hypothalamoneurohypophyseal system were used to investigate the role of these substances on VP release. ATP (100 micrometer) increased VP release 1.5-fold (p = 0.027). The response was rapid but unsustained. It was blocked by the P(2) receptor antagonist pyridoxal-phosphate-6-azophenyl-2',4'-disulphonic acid (PPADS). The alpha(1)-adrenergic agonist phenylephrine (PE; 100 micrometer) also increased VP release by 1.5-fold (p = 0.014). Again, the response was rapid and unsustained. However, simultaneous perifusion of explants with ATP (100 micrometer) and PE (100 micrometer) resulted in a threefold to fourfold increase in VP release, which was sustained for as long as 4 hr. There was a similar synergistic effect of ATP and PE on oxytocin release. Interestingly, the synergistic response was delayed approximately 40 min relative to the response to either agent alone. Several experiments were performed to elucidate the cellular mechanisms of this synergism. The effect was blocked by PPADS, a protein kinase C inhibitor (bisindolylmaleimide I HCl), and actinomycin, an inhibitor of gene transcription. These data suggest that P(2X) receptor activation, PKC-mediated phosphorylation, and gene transcription are required for the synergistic response. The marked synergism of these coreleased agents is probably important to achieve sustained increases in plasma VP in response to prolonged hypotension. These observations may also have broad applications to CNS function, because ATP may be coreleased at noradrenergic synapses throughout the CNS.

Substance P and NPY differentially potentiate ATP and adrenergic stimulated vasopressin and oxytocin release

The supraoptic nuclei are innervated by the A1 neurons of the caudal ventrolateral medulla. Substances colocalized in the A1 terminals include norepinephrine (NE), substance P (SP), ATP, and neuropeptide Y (NPY). ATP, acting at P(2x) receptors, caused rapid and unsustained stimulation of vasopressin (VP) and oxytocin (OT) release from perifused explants of the hypothalamo-neurohypophysial system. SP elicited a concentration-dependent stimulation of VP and OT release that was large and sustained compared with other stimuli. ATP, but not phenylephrine (PE, alpha(1)-adrenergic agonist), augmented the response to SP (1 microM). In contrast, NPY did not alter basal nor ATP-induced VP or OT release, but it did cause sustained potentiation of PE-induced VP and OT release. The Y(1)-agonist, [Leu(31),Pro(34)]-NPY, increased VP and OT release, suggesting that the ineffectiveness of NPY reflects opposing actions at pre- and postsynaptic receptors. However, [Leu(31),Pro(34)]-NPY did not potentiate hormone responses to ATP or PE. The differential responses to these colocalized neurotransmitters and neuropeptides illustrate the range of potential responses that stimulation of this pathway might elicit from supraoptic neurons.

Immunohistochemical localization of the P2Y1 purinergic receptor in Alzheimer's disease

The biological actions of extracellular nucleotides are mediated by two distinct classes of P2 receptor, P2X and P2Y. The G protein-coupled P2Y receptors comprise five mammalian subtypes, P2Y(1-11). The P2Y1 subtype is expressed abundantly throughout the human brain and is specifically localized to neuronal structures. In the present study, the distribution of the P2Y1 receptor was investigated in Alzheimer's disease (AD) brains. In contrast to control human brain, the P2Y1 receptor was localized to a number of characteristic AD structures such as neurofibrillary tangles, neuritic plaques and neuropil threads. Immunoblot analysis showed that this specific immunostaining observed over tangles was not a result of cross-reactivity between the anti-P2Y1 antiserum and abnormal tau protein, the major constituent of tangles. The significance of this altered P2Y1 cellular distribution in AD brains is at present unclear.

Real-time fluorescence analysis on molecular mechanisms for regulation of cytochrome P450scc activity upon steroidogenic stimulation in adrenocortical cells

Real-time fluorescence analysis revealed that the activity of cytochrome P450scc was related to Ca2+ signals arising from extracellular NADPH, ACTH and ATP stimulation in adrenocortical fasciculata cells. The side-chain cleavage reaction by cytochrome P450scc was measured with 3beta-hydroxy-22,23-bisnor-5-cholenyl ether (cholesterol-resorufin) by observing the distinct increase in fluorescence upon conversion of cholesterol-resorufin to resorufin and pregnenolone. Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) induced a relatively small stimulation of the P450scc activity. A significant production of resorufin was revealed after stimulation of cell cultures with 100 pM, 1 nM of ACTH for 3 h. On the other hand, extracellular NADPH was found to rapidly and greatly stimulate the resorufin production in intact cells immediately after the addition of 50-500 microM NADPH. The extracellular NADPH stimulation was prevented by the addition of thapsigargin and EGTA which abolished Ca2+ oscillations induced by NADPH. Suramin, a specific antagonist of the P2y type ATP receptor, also completely abolished the NADPH-induced cholesterol-resorufin conversion. These results imply that extracellular NADPH (membrane impermeable) produced Ca2+ oscillations through its binding to ATP receptor thereby stimulating the activity of P450scc. The application of 45-500 microM extracellular ATP to cells did not, however, significantly increase the resorufin production. These three stimulators produced very different types of Ca2+ signals. ACTH induced mainly a series of Ca2+ spikes superimposed on a long-lasting basal Ca2+ elevation. The Ca2+ signals induced by NADPH showed predominantly a series of Ca2+ spikes without elevation of the basal Ca2+ concentration. Only long-lasting Ca2+ elevation was induced by extracellular ATP. The stimulation of cytochrome P450scc may thus be correlated with the different patterns of Ca2+ signals.

ATP induces c-fos expression in C6 glioma cells by activation of P(2Y) receptors

BACKGROUND

Extracellular ATP functions in the enteric nervous system as a neurotransmitter, and recent evidence suggests ATP may regulate development through effects on cellular proliferation.

METHODS

The action of ATP at purinoceptors and the role of second messenger pathways in c-fos mRNA expression in C6 glioma cells were investigated using the techniques of Northern and Western blotting.

RESULTS

Treatment of C6 cells with ATP caused a time- and dose-dependent increase in c-fos expression. The rank order of agonist potency was ATP = ADP > gammasATP > alphabetaATP > betagammaATP > AMP = UTP. The ATP-induced c-fos increment was inhibited by three P(2Y) receptor antagonists-suramin, reactive blue, and DIDS-by 99+/-3, 89+/-7, and 61+/-14%, respectively. The ATP-stimulated c-fos expression was attenuated by phospholipase C inhibitor (U73122), protein kinase C (PKC) down-regulation (4alpha-phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate and chelerythrine), mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase inhibition (apigenin), an inhibitor of MAP kinase kinase (PD98059), down-regulation of adenylate cyclase (SQ22536), and inhibition of type II protein kinase A (8-(4-chlorophenylthio)adenosine-3',5'-cyclic monophosphorothioate), but was not affected by inhibition of type I protein kinase A (8-bromoadenosine-3',5'-cyclic monophosphorothioate) and inhibitors of calmodulin kinase (KN93 and KN62). Phosphorylated MAP kinase was increased in cells exposed to ATP. This effect was suppressed by chelerythrine.

CONCLUSIONS

These studies demonstrate that ATP-induced c-fos mRNA expression is under multifactorial regulation.

Regional and cellular distribution of the P2Y(1) purinergic receptor in the human brain: striking neuronal localisation

The biological actions of extracellular nucleotides are exerted via two families of P2 receptors, P2X and P2Y. The metabotropic P2Y receptors comprise at least 7 distinct subtypes, which have been cloned from a number of species. However, none of the P2Y receptor proteins have been visualised yet in human brain. In the present study, the regional and cellular distribution of the P2Y(1) receptor was investigated in the human brain by using immunohistochemistry. Polyclonal antibodies were raised against a synthetic peptide from the C-terminus of the P2Y(1) protein. Immunoblot analysis demonstrated that P2Y(1) antiserum specifically recognised a 63-kDa band in human and rat brain membranes. Similarly, the antiserum specifically detected the human P2Y(1) receptor in transfected 1321N1 cells. Immunohistochemical analysis on perfusion-fixed human brain tissue showed a widespread distribution for this receptor throughout the brain. At the cellular level, the P2Y(1) receptor was strikingly localised to neuronal structures of the cerebral cortex, cerebellar cortex, hippocampus, caudate nucleus, putamen, globus pallidus, subthalamic nucleus, red nucleus, and midbrain. Expression of the P2Y(1) receptor was not detected in other non-neuronal cell types. These results provide the first characterisation of the cellular distribution of a P2Y receptor in the human brain. The widespread and abundant distribution of the P2Y(1) receptor suggests its involvement in a number of important functions within the human brain. The neuronal localisation of this receptor points towards a possible role in neurotransmission, and also highlights a major role for extracellular nucleotides as signaling molecules within the brain.

Ecto-nucleotide pyrophosphatase modulates the purinoceptor-mediated signal transduction and is inhibited by purinoceptor antagonists

1. The effect of ecto-nucleotide pyrophosphatase (ecto-NPPase; EC 3.6.1. 9) on the ATP- and ADP-mediated receptor activation was studied in rat C6 glioma cells. The P2-purinoceptor antagonists pyridoxalphosphate-6-azophenyl-2',4'-disulphonic acid (PPADS) and reactive blue (RB2) are potent inhibitors (IC(50)=12+/-3 microM) of the latter enzyme. 4,4'-diisothiocyanatostilbene-2,2' disulfonic acid (DIDS), 5'-phosphoadenosine 3'-phosphate (PAP) and suramin were less potent inhibitors with an IC(50) of 22+/-4, 36+/-7 and 72+/-11 microM respectively. 2. P1-purinoceptor antagonists CGS 15943, cyclo-pentyl theophylline (CTP) and theophylline did not affect the activity of the ecto-NPPase. 3. ATP- and ADP-mediated P2Y(1)-like receptor activation inhibited the (-)-isoproterenol-induced increase of intracellular cyclic AMP concentration. PPADS, an ineffective P2Y-antagonist in C6, potentiated the ATP and ADP effect approximately 3 fold due to inhibition of nucleotide hydrolysis by the ecto-NPPase. 4. We conclude that ecto-NPPase has a modulator effect on purinoceptor-mediated signalling in C6 glioma cell cultures.

Expression of purinergic P2X2 receptor-channels and their role in calcium signaling in pituitary cells

Pituitary cells express purinergic receptor-channels (P2XR), the activation of which by ATP is associated with the facilitation of Ca2+ influx. Pharmacological, RT-PCR, and nucleotide sequence analyses confirm the presence of a wild type P2X2aR and a spliced isoform P2X2bR, which lacks a portion of carboxyl terminal amino acids. Wild type and spliced isoform receptors have a similar EC50 for ATP and time-course for activation, but the spliced isoform exhibits rapid and complete desensitization, whereas the wild type channel desensitizes slowly and incompletely. Deletion and insertion studies have revealed that a 6 residue sequence located in carboxyl tail (Arg371-Pro376) is required for sustained Ca2+ influx through wild type receptors. When co-expressed, the wild type and spliced channels form functional heteropolymeric channels. The patterns of Ca2+ signaling in the majority of pituitary cells expressing ATP-gated receptor-channels are highly comparable to those observed in cells co-transfected with P2X2aR and P2X2bR. ATP-induced [Ca2+]i response in pituitary cells is partially inhibited by nifedipine, a blocker of voltage-gated L-type Ca2+ channels, suggesting that P2X2R not only drive Ca2+ into the cell, but also activate voltage-gated Ca2+ entry. Our results indicate that ATP represents a paracrine and (or) autocrine factor in the regulation of Ca2+ signaling, and that its actions are mediated in part by heteropolymeric P2X2R.

Key words: ATP-gated channels, gonadotrophs, lactotrophs, somatotrophs.

Novel ligands for P2 receptor subtypes in innervated tissues

Among suramin analogues, the properties of P2 receptor subtype blockade and ecto-nucleotidase inhibition appear to be controlled by different structural parameters (Fig. 1 and 2, Table 1; Van Rhee et al., 1994; Beukers et al., 1995; Bültmann et al., 1996; Damer et al., 1998a, 1998b; and this study): the molecular size of the compounds, the position of the sulfonic acid residues in the naphthalene rings, the substitution pattern of the benzoyl moieties and the 3'- or 4'-aminobenzoyl-linkages of the phenyl rings "1" and "2". As a result, compounds with different receptor selectivity profiles were obtained. A maximum in potency at and selectivity for P2X1 receptors is reached in NF279, which is a specific P2 receptor antagonist and the compound with the highest P2X1 vs. P2Y receptor and ecto-nucleotidase selectivity presently available.

Purine metabolites and malondialdehyde in platelets of diabetic patients

The concentration of some of the purine nucleotides and their metabolites together with that of malondialdehyde (MDA) have been measured in resting and stimulated platelets of type 1 and type 2 diabetic patients. While control platelets show a net decrease of guanosine triphosphate (GTP) (3.1 vs. 2.3 nmol per 10(9) platelets) and guanosine diphosphate (GDP) (3.0 vs. 2.0 nmol per 10(9) platelets) and a significant increase of adenosine (0.04 vs. 0.55 nmol per 10(9) platelets) with platelet stimulation, platelets of type 1 and type 2 diabetic patients have a lesser change of these metabolites (GTP, 2.6 vs. 2.4; GDP, 2.3 vs. 2.4; adenosine, 0.04 vs. 0.30 (P < 0.05 vs. control) nmol per 10(9) platelets in type 1 diabetics; GTP, 2.4 vs. 2.7; GDP, 2.4 vs. 2.1; adenosine, 0.08 vs. 0.32 (P < 0.05 vs. control) nmol per 10(9) platelets in type 2 diabetics). These results indicate that the change (stimulated minus resting) of GTP, GDP and adenosine in diabetic platelets is significantly different from that of controls (P < 0.001). Moreover, the amount of MDA produced during platelet activation seems to be lower than controls only in type 2 diabetes (1.81 vs. 2.86 nmol per 10(9) platelets, P < 0.05). These results seem to indicate that a difference in the pattern of platelet nucleotides could be an important feature even in well-controlled diabetes, while MDA is probably modified only in association with the late vascular complications of diabetes.

Ion channels in presynaptic nerve terminals and control of transmitter release

The primary function of the presynaptic nerve terminal is to release transmitter quanta and thus activate the postsynaptic target cell. In almost every step leading to the release of transmitter quanta, there is a substantial involvement of ion channels. In this review, the multitude of ion channels in the presynaptic terminal are surveyed. There are at least 12 different major categories of ion channels representing several tens of different ion channel types; the number of different ion channel molecules at presynaptic nerve terminals is many hundreds. We describe the different ion channel molecules at the surface membrane and inside the nerve terminal in the context of their possible role in the process of transmitter release. Frequently, a number of different ion channel molecules, with the same basic function, are present at the same nerve terminal. This is especially evident in the cases of calcium channels and potassium channels. This abundance of ion channels allows for a physiological and pharmacological fine tuning of the process of transmitter release and thus of synaptic transmission.

Purine Metabolites Suppress Proliferation of Human NK Cells Through a Lineage-Specific Purine Receptor

NK cell proliferation is suppressed in some patients with cancer by unknown mechanisms. Because purine metabolites released into the extracellular space during cell lysis may affect cell function, we hypothesized that these metabolites could serve as feedback regulators of NK cell proliferation. Sorted NK (CD56+/CD3−) cells were incubated with IL-2 (1000 U/ml) in a 4-day thymidine uptake assay with or without 10–10,000 μM of nucleotides. Adenine nucleotides inhibited NK cell proliferation, with ATP = ADP &gt; 5′-adenylylimidodiphosphate &gt; AMP = adenosine; ADP-ribose and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide, but not nicotinamide or UTP, caused a dose-dependent suppression of thymidine uptake. A total of 100 μM ATP, a concentration that induced a maximal (80%) inhibition of thymidine uptake, did not inhibit cytotoxic activity against K562 targets. Because NK cells retained the ability to lyse K562 targets 4 days after exposure to 500 μM ATP or 1000 μM adenosine, inhibition of thymidine uptake was not due to cell death. Incubation of NK cells with dibutyryl cAMP and forskolin also suppressed thymidine uptake. Cholera toxin and pertussis toxin suppressed NK cell proliferation. Pertussis toxin did not block the adenine nucleotide effects. Further, ATP, but not adenosine or other nucleotides, markedly increased intracellular cAMP in a dose-dependent manner. The ATP-induced increase in cAMP was specific to cytolytic cells, because CD19+ B cells and CD4+ T cells did not increase their intracellular cAMP. These studies demonstrate that NK proliferation is regulated through purine receptors by adenine nucleotides, which may play a role in decreased NK cell activity. The response to adenine nucleotides is lineage-specific.

Lipopolysaccharide treatment modifies pH- and cation-dependent ecto-ATPase activity of endothelial cells

The aim of this study was to investigate the distribution pattern of Ca2+- and Mg2+-dependent ecto-ATPases on the surface of rat brain capillary endothelial cells (ECs) in control and lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-treated animals. Ecto-ATPases in the membrane of vascular endothelial cells are suggested to play a crucial role in thromboregulation. Loss of this enzyme activity after oxidative stress and upregulation of the enzyme chain hydrolyzing extracellular ATP after transient forebrain ischemia have also been reported. We used histochemistry to localize the activities of this enzyme on ECs and found pH- and cation-dependent changes in the localization of enzyme activity both in control and in LPS-treated animals. These findings suggest the presence of more than one ecto-ATPase enzyme on the surface of rat capillary ECs. The different behavior of ECs after LPS treatment is the target of further investigations. The increased ecto-nucleotidase activity might play a role in nucleotide-mediated cellular responses after bacterial infections.

Expression of both P1 and P2 purine receptor genes by human articular chondrocytes and profile of ligand-mediated prostaglandin E2 release

OBJECTIVE

To assess the expression and function of purine receptors in articular chondrocytes.

METHODS

Reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) was used to screen human chondrocyte RNA for expression of P1 and P2 purine receptor subtypes. Purine-stimulated prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) release from chondrocytes, untreated or treated with recombinant human interleukin-1alpha (rHuIL-1alpha), was assessed by radioimmunoassay.

RESULTS

RT-PCR demonstrated that human articular chondrocytes transcribe messenger RNA for the P1 receptor subtypes A2a and A2b and the P2 receptor subtype P2Y2, but not for the P1 receptor subtypes A1 and A3. The P1 receptor agonists adenosine and 5'-N-ethylcarboxamidoadenosine did not change PGE2 release from chondrocytes. The P2Y2 agonists ATP and UTP stimulated a small release of PGE2 that was potentiated after pretreatment with rHuIL-1alpha. PGE2 release in response to ATP and UTP cotreatment was not additive, but release in response to coaddition of ATP and bradykinin (BK) or UTP and BK was additive, consistent with ATP and UTP competition for the same receptor site. The potentiation of PGE2 release in response to ATP and UTP after rHuIL-1alpha pretreatment was mimicked by phorbol myristate acetate.

CONCLUSION

Human chondrocytes express both P1 and P2 purine receptor subtypes. The function of the P1 receptor subtype is not yet known, but stimulation of the P2Y2 receptor increases IL-1-mediated PGE2 release.

An ecto-nucleotide pyrophosphatase is one of the main enzymes involved in the extracellular metabolism of ATP in rat C6 glioma

The presence of a nucleotide pyrophosphatase (EC 3.6.1.9) on the plasma membrane of rat C6 glioma has been demonstrated by analysis of the hydrolysis of ATP labeled in the base and in the alpha- and gamma-phosphates. The enzyme degraded ATP into AMP and PPi and, depending on the ATP concentration, accounted for approximately 50-75% of the extracellular degradation of ATP. The association of the enzyme with the plasma membrane was confirmed by ATP hydrolysis in the presence of a varying concentration of pyridoxal phosphate-6-azophenyl-2',4'-disulfonic acid (PPADS), a membrane-impermeable inhibitor of the enzyme. PPADS concentration above 20 microM abolished the degradation of ATP into AMP and PPi. The nucleotide pyrophosphatase has an alkaline pH optimum and a Km for ATP of 17 +/- 5 microM. The enzyme has a broad substrate specificity and hydrolyzes nucleoside triphosphates, nucleoside diphosphates, dinucleoside polyphosphates, and nucleoside monophosphate esters but is inhibited by nucleoside monophosphates, adenosine 3',5'-bisphosphate, and PPADS. The substrate specificity characterizes the enzyme as a nucleotide pyrophosphatase/phosphodiesterase I (PD-I). Immunoblotting and autoadenylylation identified the enzyme as a plasma cell differentiation antigen-related protein. Hydrolysis of ATP terminates the autophosphorylation of a nucleoside diphosphate kinase (NDPK/nm23) detected in the conditioned medium of C6 cultures. A function of the pyrophosphatase/PD-I and NDPK in the purinergic and pyrimidinergic signal transduction in C6 is discussed.

The CD39-like gene family: identification of three new human members (CD39L2, CD39L3, and CD39L4), their murine homologues, and a member of the gene family from Drosophila melanogaster

The human lymphoid cell activation antigen CD39 is a known E-type apyrase that hydrolyzes extracellular ATP and ADP, a function important in homotypic adhesion, platelet aggregation, and removal by activated lymphocytes of the lytic effect of ATP. The recently identified putative rat homologue of CD39L1 has been shown to have E-type ecto-ATPase activity, by hydrolyzing extracellular ATP. We have characterized three novel CD39-like transcripts, CD39L2, CD39L3, and CD39L4, which share extensive amino acid homology with other nucleotide triphosphatases in vertebrates, invertebrates, and plants, suggesting that these genes also encode proteins with ecto-nucleotidase activity. Isolation and sequencing of full-length cDNA clones for each gene identified putative proteins of 485, 529, and 429 amino acids. The expression pattern of all five human members of the gene family was analyzed. CD39L2, CD39L3, and CD39L4 were mapped on the human genome, and the murine homologues identified with the putative map locations were assigned on the basis of regions of conserved gene order between human and mouse chromosomes. The map location of mcd39l4 places the gene within a region associated with audiogenic seizure susceptibility in mouse. This disorder is characterized by convulsions induced by loud high-frequency sound and has been shown to be associated with increased nucleotide triphosphatase activity.

Regional distribution of [35S]2'-deoxy 5'-O-(1-thio) ATP binding sites and the P2Y1 messenger RNA within the chick brain

The distribution of the P2Y1 receptor protein and transcript in the one-day-old chick brain were determined by quantitative in vitro ligand autoradiography and in situ hybridization histochemistry. We have previously used [35S]2'-deoxy 5'-O-(1-thio) ATP as a radioligand for the recombinant P2Y1 receptor transiently expressed in COS-7 cells and have also shown that such sites are present at high density (Bmax: approximately 37 pmol radioligand bound/mg protein) in chick brain membranes. Here we report the macroscopic localization of these [35S]2'-deoxy 5'-O-(1-thio) ATP binding sites within the chick brain. They were found to be widely distributed there (within the range of 0.047 +/- 0.012 to 0.309 +/- 0.035 pmol bound/mg wet tissue). The affinities of P2 agonists and antagonists at these binding sites was comparable to that found previously for the recombinant P2Y1 receptor. In parallel experiments, the regional and cellular localization of the P2Y1 receptor messenger RNA was examined by in situ hybridization. The transcript was also found to be widely distributed throughout the brain. High levels of hybridization were detected in the cortex piriformis, ectostriatum, hippocampus, cerebellum and in a range of discrete nuclei throughout the brain, including the ovoidalis, isthmo-opticus and spiriformis lateralis nuclei. Localization at cellular level indicates that this receptor transcript is expressed in neurons and also at non-neuronal sites. Furthermore, the distribution of the P2Y1 transcript and the [35S]2'-deoxy 5'-O-(1-thio) ATP binding sites matched in a number of the regions and structures mentioned above. The present study clarifies the anatomical distribution of the P2Y1 receptor within the chick brain. Its broad distribution coupled with its neuronal expression suggest an important role for this type of metabotropic nucleotide receptor within the brain.

Differential sensitivity to nickel and SK&F96365 of second messenger-operated and receptor-operated calcium channels in rat submandibular ductal cells

The intracellular concentration of calcium ([Ca2+]i) of rat submandibular ductal cells was measured with the intracellular fluorescent dye Fura-2. Carbachol (100 microM) and ATP (1 mM) both increased the [Ca2+]i. The late response to ATP was blocked by 0.5 mM Ni2+. This concentration of Ni2+ also blocked the increase of the [Ca2+]i and the uptake of manganese and calcium in response to 2'- and 3'-O-(4-benzoylbenzoyl) adenosine 5'-triphosphate (BzATP, 100 microM), a specific agonist of P2X receptors from salivary glands. The increase of the [Ca2+]i in response to 2-methylthioadenosine 5'-triphosphate (2-MeSATP, 100 microM) a specific P2Y agonist in salivary glands or to a muscarinic agonist (carbachol) was not affected by 0.5 mM Ni2+. Only higher concentrations of Ni2+ (in the millimolar range) inhibited the uptake of extracellular calcium in response to carbachol. SK&F96365, a blocker of store-operated calcium channels, inhibited the uptake of extracellular calcium in response to carbachol without affecting the response to BzATP. It is concluded that at low concentrations (below 0.5 mM), Ni2+ inhibits the non-specific cation channel coupled to P2X receptors. The uptake of extracellular calcium by store-operated calcium channels is inhibited by higher concentrations of Ni2+ and by SK&F96365.

Adenosine receptor mediates motility in human melanoma cells

Cell motility is an essential component of tumor progression and metastasis. A number of factors, both autocrine and paracrine, have been found to influence cell motility. In the present study, adenosine and adenine nucleotides directly stimulated chemotaxis of A2058 melanoma cells in the absence of exogenous factors. Three adenosine receptor agonists stimulated motility in the melanoma cells and two adenosine receptor antagonists strongly inhibited the chemotactic response to both adenosine and AMP. The chemotactic stimulation by adenosine and AMP was pertussis toxin sensitive. Otherwise unresponsive Chinese hamster ovary cells which were transfected with the adenosine A1 receptor cDNA acquired the direct, pertussis toxin sensitive, chemotactic response to adenosine, and this response was inhibited by adenosine receptor antagonists. These findings demonstrate that adenosine and adenine nucleotides are capable of stimulating chemotaxis of tumor cells mediated through an adenosine receptor, probably of the A1 subtype. The possibility of antimetastatic therapies based on inhibition of adenosine receptor activity is raised.

A nucleotide-binding domain of porcine liver annexin VI. Proteolysis of annexin VI labelled with 8-azido-ATP, purification by affinity chromatography on ATP-agarose, and fluorescence studies

Porcine liver annexin VI (AnxVI) of Mr 68.000 is an ATP-binding protein as evidenced by specific and saturable UV-dependent labelling with 8-azido-[gamma-32P]ATP or the fluorescent analog of ATP, 2'-(or 3')-O-(2,4,6-trinitrophenyl)adenosine triphosphate and by binding of AnxVI to ATP-agarose. These characteristics of purified AnxVI were used to identify and characterize preliminary nucleotide-binding domain of the protein. AnxVI labelled with 8-azido-ATP was subjected to limited proteolysis and the proteolytic fragments of AnxVI that retained the covalently-bound nucleotide were separated by means of gel electrophoresis and visualized by exposure of the gel to a phosphor storage screen. It was found that the AnxVI proteolytic fragments of Mr 34-36.000 and smaller retained the nucleotide. In a reciprocal experiment, AnxVI was digested with proteolytic enzymes and in an ATP eluate from an ATP-agarose column protein fragments of similar Mr to these labelled with 8-azido-ATP were identified. The extent of AnxVI labelling with 8-azido-ATP and the distribution of proteolytic fragments varied upon calcium concentration. These results lead to the conclusion that there is a nucleotide-binding domain within the AnxVI molecule that is functionally similar to the nucleotide-binding domains of other nucleotide-binding proteins. The nucleotide-binding domain is located close to the tryptophan residue 343 of AnxVI and in close vicinity to the Ca2+- and phospholipid-binding sites of the protein. This is confirmed by the observation that the tryptophan fluorescence intensity of AnxVI decreases in the presence of a fluorescence analog of ATP in a calcium-dependent manner, due to the quenching properties of the nucleotide and/or fluorescence energy transfer from AnxVI tryptophan to fluorophore. Both processes were modulated by the presence of phospholipid molecules.

Adenosine 5'-triphosphate, uridine 5'-triphosphate, bradykinin, and lysophosphatidic acid induce different patterns of calcium responses by human articular chondrocytes

Small calcium-mobilizing inflammatory mediators have been implicated in joint pathology. Here we demonstrate that bradykinin, adenosine 5'-triphosphate, uridine 5'-triphosphate, and lysophosphatidic acid raise the intracellular calcium concentration ([Ca2+]i) in human articular chondrocytes. Heterologous cross-desensitization experiments showed that the uridine 5'-triphosphate response was abolished by prior treatment with adenosine 5'-triphosphate and, conversely, that the adenosine 5'-triphosphate response was abolished by prior treatment with uridine 5'-triphosphate; this indicated competition for the same receptor site, whereas bradykinin and lysophosphatidic acid did not compete with other ligands. Pretreatment with thapsigargin abolished ligand-mediated Ca2+ responses but not vice versa; this confirmed that Ca2+ release occurred from intracellular stores. Single-cell analysis of Fura-2 acetoxymethyl ester loaded chondrocytes showed mediator-dependent patterns of oscillatory Ca2+ changes in a subset of cells when challenged with submaximal concentrations of bradykinin, adenosine 5'-triphosphate, or uridine 5'-triphosphate in the presence of extracellular Ca2+. However, no oscillatory responses were seen after a challenge with lysophosphatidic acid. Therefore, although a number of different Ca2+-mobilizing ligands activate chondrocytes, the differences that occur in the temporal patterning of Ca2+ responses may result in unique mediator-dependent changes in cellular activity.

The human P2X4 receptor gene is alternatively spliced

ATP acts as a fast excitatory neurotransmitter by binding to a large family of membrane proteins, P2X receptors, that have been shown to be ligand-gated, non-selective cation channels. We report the cloning of a full-length and alternatively spliced form of the human P2X4 gene. Clones were identified from a human stomach cDNA library using a rat P2X4 probe. Nucleotide sequence analysis of positive clones identified the full-length human P2X4 cDNA, which codes for a 388-residue protein that is highly homologous (82%) to the rat gene, and an alternatively spliced cDNA. In the alternatively spliced cDNA, the 5'-untranslated region and the first 90 amino acids in the coding region of full-length human P2X4 are replaced by a 35 amino acid coding sequence that is highly homologous with a region of chaperonin proteins in the hsp-90 family. The open reading frames of the full-length and splice variant clones were confirmed by in vitro translation. Northern analysis indicated expression of the full-length P2X4 message in numerous human tissues including smooth muscle, heart, and skeletal muscles. Alternatively spliced RNAs were identified in smooth muscle and brain by RT-PCR and confirmed by RNAse protection assays using a 710 bp anti-sense RNA probe that spanned the alternatively spliced and native P2X4 regions. Injection of full-length, but not alternatively spliced, cRNA into Xenopus oocytes resulted in the expression of ATP gated non-selective cation currents.

Extracellular ATP in the lymphohematopoietic system: P2Z purinoceptors off membrane permeabilization

The effects of extracellular nucleosides and nucleotides on many organs and systems have been recognized for almost 50 years. The effects of extracellular ATP (ATPo), UTPo, ADPo, and other agonists are mediated by P2 purinoceptors. One of the most dramatic effects of ATPo is the permeabilization of plasma membranes to low molecular mass solutes of up to 900 Da. This effect is evident in several cells of the lymphohematopoietic system and is supposed to be mediated by P2Z, an ATP(4-)-activated purinoceptor. Here, we review some basic information concerning P2 purinoceptors and focus our attention on P2Z-associated phenomena displayed by macrophages. Using fluorescent dye uptake, measurement of free intracellular Ca2+ concentration and electrophysiological recordings, we elucidate some of the events that follow the application of ATP to the extracellular surface of macrophages. We propose a regulatory mechanism for the P2Z-associated permeabilization pore. The presence of P2 purinoceptors in cells of the lymphohematopoietic system makes them potential candidates to mediate immunoregulatory events.

Modulation by adenine nucleotides of epileptiform activity in the CA3 region of rat hippocampal slices

1. Hippocampal slices (450 microm) generate epileptiform bursts of an interictal nature when perfused with a zero magnesium medium containing 4-aminopyridine (50 microM). The effect of adenine nucleotides on this activity was investigated. 2. ATP and adenosine depressed this epileptiform activity in a concentration-dependent manner, with both purines being equipotent at concentrations above 10 microM. 3. Adenosine deaminase 0.2 u ml(-1), a concentration that annuls the effect of adenosine (50 microM), did not significantly alter the depression of activity caused by ATP (50 microM). 4. 8-Cyclopentyl-1,3-dimethylxanthine (CPT), an A1 receptor antagonist, enhanced the discharge rate significantly and inhibited the depressant effect of both ATP and adenosine such that the net effect of ATP or adenosine plus CPT was excitatory. 5. Several ATP analogues were also tested: alpha, beta-methyleneATP (alpha, beta-meATP), 2-methylthioATP (2-meSATP) and uridine triphosphate (UTP). Only alpha, beta-meATP (10 microM) produced an increase in the frequency of spontaneous activity which suggests a lack of involvement of P2Y or P2U receptors. 6. Suramin and pyridoxalphosphate-6-azophenyl-2',4'-disulphonic acid (PPADS), P2 receptor antagonists, failed to inhibit the depression produced by ATP (50 microM). The excitatory effect of alpha, beta-meATP (10 microM) was inhibited by suramin (50 microM) and PPADS (5 microM). 7. ATP therefore depresses epileptiform activity in this model in a manner which is not consistent with the activation of known P1 or P2 receptors, suggesting the involvement of a xanthine-sensitive nucleotide receptor. The results are also indicative of an excitatory P2X receptor existing in the hippocampal CA3 region.

Co-release of endogenous ATP and [3H]noradrenaline from rat hypothalamic slices: origin and modulation by alpha2-adrenoceptors

The release of endogenous ATP, measured by the luciferin-luciferase assay, and of [3H]noradrenaline from the in vitro superfused rat hypothalamic slices were studied. ATP and [3H]noradrenaline were released simultaneously during resting conditions and in response to low and high frequency field electrical stimulation; the release of both substances were frequency dependent between 2 Hz and 16 Hz. The stimulation-induced release of ATP and [3H]noradrenaline was diminished by more than 80% under Ca2+-free conditions. Tetrodotoxin inhibited the majority of the evoked release of both ATP and [3H]noradrenaline, however, it was less effective in reducing the release of [3H]noradrenaline, than that of ATP. Bilateral stereotaxic injection of 6-hydroxydopamine (4 microg/side) to the ventral part of the ventral noradrenergic bundle, originating from the A1 cell group in the brainstem, resulted in a 55% reduction of endogenous noradrenaline content of the hypothalamic slices, and the tritium uptake and the stimulation-evoked release of [3H]noradrenaline was also markedly reduced. While the basal release of ATP was not affected, the evoked release was diminished by 72% by this treatment. Perfusion of the slices with noradrenaline (100 microM) initiated rapid and continuous tritium release; on the other hand, it did not release any ATP. In contrast, 6 min perfusion of (-)nicotine and 1,1-dimethyl-4-phenyl-piperazinium iodide evoked parallel release of ATP and [3H]noradrenaline which was inhibited by the nicotinic receptor antagonist mecamylamine; 6-hydroxydopamine lesion of the ventral part of the ventral noradrenergic bundle did not affect the nicotine-evoked ATP and [3H]noradrenaline release. While CH 38083, a non subtype-selective alpha2-antagonist and BRL44408, the subtype-selective alpha2AD antagonist augmented the evoked release of [3H]noradrenaline, ARC239, a selective alpha2BC antagonist was without effect. In contrast, neither of the alpha2-antagonists significantly affected the evoked-release of ATP. In summary, we report here that endogenous ATP and [3H]noradrenaline are co-released stimulation-dependently from superfused rat hypothalamic slices. A significant part of the release of both compounds is derived from the nerve terminals, originating from the A1 catecholaminergic cell group of brainstem nuclei. Unlike that from the peripheral sympathetic transmission, noradrenaline and alpha1-adrenoceptor agonists were unable to promote the release of ATP. Conversely, parallel ATP and noradrenaline release could be induced by nicotine receptor activation, but this release does not originate from the same nerve endings. The evoked-release of [3H]noradrenaline is inhibited by endogenous noradrenaline via alpha2AD subtype of adrenoreceptors, while the release of ATP is not subject to this autoinhibitory modulation. In conclusion, our results support the view that ATP is involved in the neurotransmission in the hypothalamus, but the sources of the released ATP and noradrenaline seem to be not identical under different stimulatory and modulatory conditions.

Functional ATP receptors in rat anterior pituitary cells

The effects of ATP and other nucleotides on the cytosolic Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) of single immunocytochemically typed anterior pituitary (AP) cells have been studied. ATP increased [Ca2+]i in a large percentage (60-88%) of all five AP cell types: lactotropes, somatotropes, corticotropes, gonadotropes, and thyrotropes. Additivity experiments suggest the presence of at least two different receptors, one accepting both ATP and UTP (U receptor), producing Ca2+ release from the intracellular stores, and the other preferring ATP (A receptor), producing Ca2+ (and Mn2+) entry. The characteristics of the U and A receptors were consistent with those of P2Y2 and P2X2, respectively, and their distribution in the different AP cell types was not homogeneous. The presence of other ATP receptors such P2Y1 or P2X2/P2X3 heteropolymers in a small fraction of the cells cannot be excluded. Thus functional ionophoric P2X receptors, which are typical of neural tissue, are also present in the pituitary gland and could contribute to regulation of the gland's function.

Diadenosine polyphosphates evoke Ca2+ transients in guinea-pig brain via receptors distinct from those for ATP

1. The ability of diadenosine polyphosphates, namely P1,P2-di(adenosine) pyrophosphate (Ap2A), P1,P3-di(adenosine) triphosphate (Ap3A), P1,P4-di(adenosine) tetraphosphate (Ap4A), P1,P5-di(adenosine) pentaphosphate (Ap5A) and P1,P6-di(adenosine) hexaphosphate (Ap6A) to evoke Ca2+ signals in synaptosomes prepared from three different regions of the guinea-pig brain was examined. 2. In synaptosomal preparations from the paleocortex (cortex), diencephalon/brainstem (midbrain) and cerebellum all the dinucleotides evoked Ca2+ signals that were concentration dependent over the range 1-300 microM. ATP and its synthetic analogues, alpha,beta-methylene ATP, 2-methylthio ATP and adenosine 5'-O-(2-thio)diphosphate (all 100 microM) also evoked Ca2+ signals in these preparations. 3. In the midbrain and cerebellum preparations, responses to ATP and its analogues were attenuated or abolished by the P2 receptor antagonist suramin (100 microM) but responses to the dinucleotides were not. Also, desensitization by a dinucleotide blocked responses to dinucleotides but not mononucleotides, and desensitization by a mononucleotide blocked responses to mononucleotides but not dinucleotides. 4. In cortical preparations, suramin (100 microM) blocked responses to both classes of nucleotides. Furthermore, there was mutual cross-desensitization between the mono- and dinucleotides. 5. The adenosine A1 receptor antagonist, 8-cyclopentyl-1,3-dipropylxanthine, did not affect responses evoked by the dinucleotides, nor did the pyrimidine UTP. 6. It is concluded that there are specific dinucleotide receptors, activated by diadenosine polyphosphates, but not ATP or UTP, on synaptic terminals in guinea-pig diencephalon/ brainstem and cerebellum. These receptors bear a similarity to the dinucleotide receptor (P4 receptor) in rat brain. In guinea-pig cerebral cortex synaptosomes, diadenosine polyphosphates appear to act via the same receptor as ATP.

Autotaxin, tumor motility-stimulating exophosphodiesterase

While nucleotides have a well-established role in intracellular metabolism, ATP and other nucleotides also have important extracellular roles in receptor-mediated signal transduction (34, 35). Extracellular or cell surface proteins capable of binding ATP and hydrolyzing phosphoester bonds of nucleotides are known to exist but their function has remained obscure. Our recent data point to a structure-function correlation between PDE activity and motility stimulation by ATX, indicating a biologically important functional role for the ecto/exophosdiesterases in the stimulation of cellular motility. Data from studies with PC-1 and gp130RB13-6 have suggested that cell surface PDE's may also play roles in cellular differentiation. Extracellular PDE activities, in combination with other nucleotidases, may result in ecto-nucleotidase cascades (36-38). These data suggest that ecto-/exo-enzymes may catalyze extracellular biochemical reactions that are important in the regulation of cell behavior.

Nucleotide receptors in the nervous system. An abundant component using diverse transduction mechanisms

Extracellular nucleotides achieve their role as cell-to-cell communicators by acting at cell surface transmembrane receptors-the P2 receptors. Before molecular cloning led to the isolation of any P2-receptor sequence, a small number of receptor types had been proposed on the basis of pharmacological evidence. The application of molecular biology to this field of receptor research has indicated that a great underestimation of the number of receptor subtypes and of their abundance had occurred. There are now known to be seven characterized P2Y (G protein linked) receptors and the same number again of P2X receptors of the transmitter-gated ion channel type. In this review, we discuss the properties of these cloned receptors, their distribution within the nervous system, and their methods of signal transduction.

Distribution of [35S]dATP alpha S binding sites in the adult rat neuraxis

Highly abundant, saturable and specific binding sites for [35S]2'-deoxyadenosine 5'-O-(1-thio) triphosphate ([35S]dATP alpha S, Kd: 9 +/- 2 nM; Bmax: 39 +/- 8 pmol/mg protein) are present in adult rat brain membranes and have characteristics consistent with those expected for a P2Y1 receptor. The anatomical distribution of these binding sites in the brain and spinal cord was examined using in vitro autoradiography. The [35S]dATP alpha S binding sites showed a widespread distribution throughout the brain and spinal cord. They could be displaced by a large excess (100 microM) of 2-methylthioATP (2MeS-ATP) but not by uridine-5'-triphosphate (UTP) or alpha,beta-methyleneATP (alpha,beta-meATP). Within the cortical regions labelling was of equal medium density. However, discrete structures and nuclei within the olfactory bulb, subcortical telencephalon, hippocampal complex, thalamic regions and mesencephalon displayed a variety of densities. Within the spinal cord, gray matter was labelled at a greater density than the funiculi. The present study clarifies the anatomical distribution of P2Y1 and closely related receptors within the central nervous system of rat and extends the evidence that those receptors are abundant and widely distributed within the neuraxis.