Use of [3H]spiperone for labelling dopaminergic and serotonergic receptors in bovine caudate nucleus

Mechanisms of G protein activation via the D2 dopamine receptor: evidence for persistent receptor/G protein interaction after agonist stimulation

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

The aim of this report is to study mechanisms of G protein activation by agonists.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

The association and dissociation of guanosine 5'-O-(3-[(35)S]thio)triphosphate ([(35)S]GTPgammaS) binding at G proteins in membranes of CHO cells stably transfected with the human dopamine D(2short) receptor was studied in the presence of a range of agonists.

KEY RESULTS

Binding of [(35)S]GTPgammaS was dissociable in the absence of agonist and dissociation was accelerated both in rate and extent by dopamine, an effect which was blocked by the dopamine D(2) receptor antagonist raclopride and by suramin, which inhibits receptor/G protein interaction. A range of agonists of varying efficacy increased the rate of dissociation of [(35)S]GTPgammaS binding, with the more efficacious agonists resulting in faster dissociation. Agonists were able to dissociate about 70% of the pre-bound [(35)S]GTPgammaS, leaving a component which may not be accessible to the agonist-bound receptor. The dissociable component of the [(35)S]GTPgammaS binding was reduced with longer association times and increased [(35)S]GTPgammaS concentrations.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

These data are consistent with [(35)S]GTPgammaS binding being initially to receptor-linked G proteins and then to G proteins which have separated from the agonist bound receptor. Under the conditions used typically for [(35)S]GTPgammaS binding assays, therefore, much of the agonist-receptor complex remains in proximity to G proteins after they have been activated by agonist.

Investigation of the mechanism of agonist and inverse agonist action at D2 dopamine receptors

This study investigated, for the D2 dopamine receptor, the relation between the ability of agonists and inverse agonists to stabilise different states of the receptor and their relative efficacies. Ki values for agonists were determined in competition versus the binding of the antagonist [3H]spiperone. Competition data were fitted best by a two-binding site model (with the exception of bromocriptine, for which a one-binding site model provided the best fit) and agonist affinities for the higher (Kh) (G protein-coupled) and lower affinity (Kl) (G protein-uncoupled) sites determined. Ki values for agonists were also determined in competition versus the binding of the agonist [3H]N-propylnorapomorphine (NPA) to provide a second estimate of Kh. Maximal agonist effects (Emax) and their potencies (EC50) were determined from concentration-response curves for agonist stimulation of guanosine-5'-O-(3-[32S]thiotriphosphate) ([35S]GTPgammaS) binding. The ability of agonists to stabilise the G protein-coupled state of the receptor (Kl/Kh determined from ligand-binding assays) did not correlate with either of two measures of relative efficacy (relative Emax, Kl/EC50) of agonists determined in [35S]GTPgammaS-binding assays, when the data for all of the compounds tested were analysed. For a subset of compounds, however, there was a relation between Kl/Kh and Emax. Competition-binding data versus [3H]spiperone and [3H]NPA for a range of inverse agonists were fitted best by a one-binding site model. Ki values for the inverse agonists tested were slightly lower in competition versus [3H]NPA compared to [3H]spiperone. These data do not provide support for the idea that inverse agonists act by binding preferentially to the ground state of the receptor.

Functional coupling of the human dopamine D2 receptor with G alpha i1, G alpha i2, G alpha i3 and G alpha o G proteins: evidence for agonist regulation of G protein selectivity

(1) The human dopamine D(2long) (D(2L)) receptor was expressed with four different G proteins in Sf9 cells using the baculovirus expression system. When co-expressed with G(i)/G(o) G proteins (G(i1)alpha, G(i2)alpha, G(i3)alpha, or G(o)alpha, plus Gbeta(1) and Ggamma(2)), the receptor displayed a high-affinity binding site for the agonists (dopamine and NPA), which was sensitive to GTP (100 micro M), demonstrating interaction between the receptor and the different G proteins. (2) The receptor to G protein ratio (R : G ratio) was evaluated using [(3)H]-spiperone saturation binding (R) and [(35)S]-GTPgammaS saturation binding (G). R : G ratios of 1 : 12, 1 : 3, 1 : 14 and 1 : 5 were found for G(i1), G(i2), G(i3), and G(o) preparations, respectively. However, when R : G ratios of 1 : 2 and 1 : 12 were compared for G(i2) and G(o), no difference was found for the stimulation of [(35)S]-GTPgammaS binding. (3) Several agonists were tested for their ability to stimulate [(35)S]-GTPgammaS binding to membranes co-expressing the receptor and various G proteins. All the compounds tested showed agonist activity in preparations expressing G(i3) and G(o). However, for G(i2) and G(i1) preparations, compounds such as S-(-)-3-PPP and p-tyramine were unable to stimulate [(35)S]-GTPgammaS binding. (4) Most of the compounds showed higher relative efficacies (compared to dopamine) and higher potencies in the preparation expressing G(o). Comparison of the effects of different agonists in the different preparations showed that each agonist differentially activates the four G proteins. (5) We conclude that the degree of selectivity of G protein activation by the D(2L) receptor can depend on the conformation of the receptor stabilised by an agonist.

Labelling of D2-dopaminergic and 5-HT2-serotonergic binding sites in human trophoblastic cells using [3H]-spiperone

We previously reported that dopamine (DA) inhibited the release of human placental lactogen (hPL) from human placental cells. We also demonstrated the presence of D2-dopamine receptors in membrane preparations of human term placenta. The aim of the present study was to characterize these D2 receptors on freshly isolated human trophoblastic cells. The binding of [3H]-spiperone to these cells showed a curvilinear Scatchard plot suggesting the presence of two classes of binding sites (Kd1 = 1.26nM; Kd2 = 44.3nM). Competition experiments showed the following inhibitory binding potencies: serotonin-2 (5-HT2) > or = D2 >>> alpha-adrenergic, beta-adrenergic, D1-dopamine, thus suggesting the presence of 5-HT2 binding sites. We have examined this possibility by blocking [3H]-spiperone binding to 5-HT2 receptors in the presence of 50nM ketanserin, a selective antagonist of 5-HT2 sites. Under this condition, the linear Scatchard plot obtained suggested a single population of homogeneous binding sites for [3H]-spiperone with a Kd of 0.55nM. To further characterize placental D2 receptors we conducted binding experiments with [3H]-raclopride, an more selective D2 antagonist. The linear Scatchard plot obtained with this ligand suggested one class of binding sites for [3H]-raclopride (Kd = 6nM) with the following inhibitory potencies: D2 >>> beta-adrenergic >> 5-HT2, D1, alpha-adrenergic. These results suggest an important paracrine function for DA in human placenta and show for the first time that [3H]-spiperone binds putative 5-HT2 receptors in human placenta.

Characterization of recombinant human serotonin 5HT1A receptors expressed in Chinese hamster ovary cells. [3H]spiperone discriminates between the G-protein-coupled and -uncoupled forms

5HT1A serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine) receptors have been characterized by ligand binding in a recombinant Chinese Hamster Ovary cell line expressing the human receptor gene. The agonist ligand [3H]2-(N,N-dipropylamino)-8-hydroxy-1,2,3,4-tetrahydronaphthalene ([3H]8-OH-DPAT) and the antagonist [3H]spiperone were used. For both radioligands the binding sites labelled have the properties of 5HT1A receptors and most antagonists show roughly equal affinities for the receptors labelled by either [3H]8-OH-DPAT or [3H]spiperone. Agonists, however, show higher affinities for the sites labelled by [3H]8-OH-DPAT and the antagonist spiperone conversely shows a higher affinity for the sites labelled by [3H]spiperone. Whereas [3H]8-OH-DPAT binding is inhibited by guanosine triphosphate (GTP) the binding of [3H]spiperone is increased by GTP. A model is proposed for the results whereby [3H]8-OH-DPAT labels a form of the receptor coupled to a G-protein and [3H]spiperone labels a form of the receptor uncoupled from G-proteins (or possibly coupled to a different G-protein).

Molecular characterization of D2 dopamine-like receptors from brain and from the pituitary gland

D2 dopamine-like receptors have been purified from five bovine brain regions (caudate nucleus, putamen, olfactory tubercle, frontal cortex, cerebellum) and the anterior and neurointermediate lobes of the pituitary gland using a combined ligand-affinity and lectin-affinity chromatography procedure. In all the brain regions except cerebellum and in the neurointermediate lobe of the pituitary gland the purified species appeared as a M(r) 95,000 doublet on SDS-PAGE. In the anterior lobe of the pituitary an additional M(r) 142,000-145,000 species was seen. The M(r) 95,000 species had a low affinity for the lectin wheat germ agglutinin (WGA) whereas the M(r) 142,000-145,000 species had a higher affinity for WGA and additionally showed some affinity for concanavalin A. It is concluded that both the M(r) 95,000 and 142,000-145,000 species are D2 dopamine-like receptors and that the differences between the species are mainly at the oligosaccharide level. Some evidence was also obtained for heterogeneity at the protein level which may correspond to the D2(short) and D2(long) isoforms of these receptors.

Post-transcriptional regulation of loss of rat striatal D2 dopamine receptor during aging

The mechanism(s) underlying age-associated diminutions in the rat striatal D2 dopamine receptor (D2-receptor) number was investigated. The levels of D2-receptor mRNA in 4-, 12- and 18-month-old rat striata were found not to change. In contrast, the levels of 110 kDa protein, labeled with a D2-receptor specific antibody, decreased in parallel with [3H]YM-09151-2 binding to striatal membranes. These data suggest a role for post-transcriptional mechanism(s) in age-associated decrease in D2-receptor.

Importance of thiol groups in ligand binding to D2 dopamine receptors from brain and anterior pituitary gland

The effects of the thiol group reagent 5,5'-dithiobis-(2-nitrobenzoic acid) (DTNB) on D2 dopamine receptors have been examined in three brain regions (caudate nucleus, putamen and olfactory tubercle), and in the anterior and neurointermediate lobes of the pituitary gland. Whereas the receptors in brain were insensitive to DTNB, a dose-dependent inhibition of [3H]spiperone binding to D2 receptors in both lobes of the pituitary gland was observed. The effects in the pituitary could be reversed by subsequent treatment with dithiothreitol and could be prevented by prior occupancy of the receptor binding site with a ligand. The effect of DTNB was to decrease the number of ligand-binding sites without altering the affinity of those remaining. The results show that modification of a thiol group of the D2 dopamine receptor in the two lobes of the pituitary gland tested here significantly affects ligand binding. There is therefore a difference between the D2 dopamine receptor populations in brain and pituitary in their sensitivity to modification by DTNB, and this may imply the existence of different receptor isoforms in the two issues.

Coupling of D2 dopamine receptors to G-proteins in solubilized preparations of bovine caudate nucleus

1. The coupling of D2 dopamine receptors and G-proteins has been examined in cholate-solubilized preparations of bovine caudate nucleus. 2. No receptor-G-protein coupling could be detected in solubilized preparations obtained in 0.3% cholate, but if this preparation is diluted 5-fold, coupling is re-established. 3. The dilution process was examined, and it was shown that the change in ionic strength was an important factor in modulating the observed receptor-G-protein interaction. 4. Ionic strength was shown, however, not to be the primary determinant of receptor-G-protein coupling. This is likely to be the formation, upon dilution of the preparation, of vesicles in which receptor and G-protein reassociate. 5. The formation of vesicles upon dilution was examined by a variety of techniques, including thermal-stability studies, gel filtration, centrifugation and electron microscopy.

pH dependence of sulpiride binding to D2 dopamine receptors in bovine brain

In summary then these data suggest that butyrophenones such as spiperone and substituted benzamides such as sulpiride interact with different groups at the active site of the D2 dopamine receptor. The drugs bind in different modes to the receptor which must therefore contain separate but overlapping binding sites for the two classes of drug. Understanding the precise interactions involved that generate this selectivity will be important for drug design.

Evidence for the importance of a carboxyl group in the binding of ligands to the D2 dopamine receptor

A series of group specific modifying reagents were tested for their effects on [3H]spiperone binding to brain D2 dopamine receptors to identify amino acid residues at the binding site of the D2 dopamine receptor that are critical for ligand binding. The dependence of ligand binding to the receptor on the pH of the incubation medium was also examined. N-Acetylimidazole, 5,5'-dithiobis(2-nitrobenzoic acid), 1,2-cyclohexanedione, and acetic anhydride had no specific effect on [3H]spiperone binding, indicating the lack of participation of tyrosine, free sulphydryl, arginine, or primary amino groups in ligand binding to the receptor. N,N'-Dicyclohexylcarbodiimide (DCCD) potently reduced the number of [3H]spiperone binding sites, indicating that a carboxyl group is involved in ligand binding to the receptor. The effects of DCCD could be prevented by prior incubation of the receptor with D2 dopamine receptor selective compounds. The pH-binding profile for [3H]spiperone binding indicated the importance of an ionising group of pKa 5.2 for ligand binding which may be the same carboxyl group. Diethyl pyrocarbonate, the histidine modifying reagent, also inhibited [3H]spiperone binding, reducing the affinity of the receptor for this ligand but the effects were not at the ligand binding site. From the effects of pH changes on ligand binding some evidence was obtained for a second ionising group (pKa 7.0) that specifically affects the binding of substituted benzamide drugs to the receptor. It is concluded that the D2 dopamine receptor binding site contains separate but over-lapping binding regions for antagonists such as spiperone and substituted benzamide drugs. The former region contains an important carboxyl group; the latter region contains another group that may be a second carboxyl group or a histidine.

Comparison of [3H]YM-09151-2 with [3H]spiperone and [3H]raclopride for dopamine d-2 receptor binding to rat striatum

The Kd value of [3H]YM-09151-2, a potent and highly selective dopamine D-2 antagonist, for binding to rat striatum was about 20 pM (half of that for [3H]spiperone and one-fiftieth of that for [3H]raclopride). The Bmax of [3H]YM-09151-2 binding was about 30% higher than that of [3H]raclopride or [3]spiperone. The ratio (bout 3%) of non-specific to specific binding of [3H]YM-09151-2 was smaller than that of [3H]spiperone and [3H]raclopride. The Hill coefficient values of dopamine D-2 antagonists, SCH23390, mianserin and phentolamine for the inhibition of binding of [3H]YM-09151-2 were near 1.0, and their Ki values with [3H]YM-09151-2 were consistent with those for inhibiting [3H]raclopride and [3H]spiperone binding to D-2 receptors. Thus, [3H]YM-09151-2 may be the most suitable ligand for the labelling of dopamine D-2 receptors in the brain.

Two classes of [3H]spiperone binding sites in bovine neurohypophysis: D-2 receptors and putative 5-HT2 receptors

Binding of [3H]spiperone was studied in membranes obtained from bovine neurohypophyses devoid of intermediate lobe tissue. Non-linear Scatchard plot suggested the presence of more than a single class of binding sites. Competition experiments using ketanserin, a ligand selective for 5-HT2 receptors, were carried out to ascertain whether serotonergic, in addition to dopaminergic receptors, might be responsible for the heterogeneity of [3H]spiperone binding. Computer-assisted modeling suggested the presence of two classes of binding sites for ketanserin (Kd = 1.6 +/- 0.2 and 366.7 +/- 20.5 nM, respectively). The Kd value for ketanserin binding to the high-affinity sites, as well as the Kd of [3H]spiperone for these sites suggested by the 2 sites model indicate that they represent serotonin 5-HT2 receptors. The [3H]spiperone Kd at the ketanserin low-affinity sites (65 +/- 7 pM) and the rank order of inhibitory potencies for several antagonists show that the low-affinity sites represent dopamine D-2 receptors.

D2 dopamine receptors in rat striatum are homogeneous as revealed by ligand-binding studies

D2 dopamine receptors in rat striatum have been analysed using the binding of [3H]domperidone. Competition experiments were performed with classical dopamine antagonists and antagonists reported by other workers to discriminate D2 dopamine receptor sub-classes. In all cases competition data conformed to a single binding site interaction so that there is no evidence for heterogeneity of the D2 dopamine receptor.

Guanine nucleotide effects on agonist binding to serotonin 5HT2 receptors in rat frontal cortex

Specific [3H]ketanserin binding to serotonin 5-HT2 receptors of rat frontal cortex tissue is of high affinity, saturable and unaffected by guanine nucleotides. Antagonists displace [3H]ketanserin from a single recognition site (pseudo-Hill coefficients close to unity), which is also unaffected by guanine nucleotides. Agonist displacement of either [3H]ketanserin or [3H]spiperone from three different membrane preparations showed pseudo-Hill coefficients less than one, and may be described in terms of two agonist binding sites with differing agonist affinities. In the presence of guanine nucleotides, overall agonist affinity was lowered slightly, with little or no change in pseudo-Hill coefficient.

The muscarinic receptor of rat pituitary GH3 cells is coupled with adenylate cyclase inhibition, but not with phosphoinositide turnover

The effects of muscarinic stimulation on cyclic AMP accumulation and on basal and thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH)-induced phosphoinositide turnover have been studied in rat pituitary GH3 tumour cells. Carbachol produced a dose-dependent atropine-sensitive inhibition of basal cyclic AMP accumulation. It had no effect on basal or TRH-stimulated production of inositol phosphates. The majority of the muscarinic receptors had a low affinity (Ki 0.22 microM) for pirenzepine and can be classified as M2 type, inhibiting adenylate cyclase but having no links with phosphoinositide metabolism.

Heterogeneity of D2 dopamine receptors in different brain regions

The binding of [3H]spiperone has been examined in membranes derived from different regions of bovine brain. In caudate nucleus, nucleus accumbens, olfactory tubercle and putamen binding is to D2 dopamine and 5HT2 serotonin receptors, whereas in cingulate cortex only serotonin 5HT2 receptor binding can be detected. D2 dopamine receptors were examined in detail in caudate nucleus, olfactory tubercle and putamen using [3H]spiperone binding in the presence of 0.3 microM-mianserin (to block 5HT2 serotonin receptors). No evidence for heterogeneity among D2 dopamine receptors either between brain regions or within a brain region was found from the displacements of [3H]spiperone binding by a range of antagonists, including dibenzazepines and substituted benzamides. Regulation of agonist binding by guanine nucleotides did, however, differ between regions. In caudate nucleus a population of agonist binding sites appeared resistant to guanine nucleotide regulation, whereas this was not the case in olfactory tubercle and putamen.

Characterization of binding sites for [3H]spiroperidol

Experiments were designed to investigate the biochemical properties of binding sites for [3H]spiroperidol ([3H]SPD) solubilized from canine caudate and to define the effect of detergent on the binding of the radioligand. Extraction of canine caudate with 0.75-1.0% digitonin was found to generate the maximum yield of binding sites for [3H]SPD while minimizing extraction of membrane proteins. Although binding sites were solubilized with 1.0% digitonin, a 10-fold reduction in detergent concentration was necessary to achieve maximal binding of [3H]SPD. The rank order of affinity for agonists and antagonists was consistent with the pharmacologic properties of the D2 subtype of the dopamine receptor. However, the binding of antagonists was found to be complex. Studies with some preparations of pooled canine caudate resulted in competition curves for the D2-selective antagonists domperidone and sulpiride that best fit a single-site model. Other preparations exhibited biphasic inhibition curves with these antagonists. The class of binding sites for [3H]SPD with low affinity for D2-selective antagonists constituted as much as 30-40% of the binding sites. Enrichment of solubilized binding sites for [3H]SPD was achieved by size exclusion HPLC followed by adsorption to DEAE-Sephadex and elution with buffer of increasing ionic strength. Enrichment of binding sites was accompanied by a decrease in the affinity of solubilized sites for [3H]SPD.

Alterations in beta-adrenoceptor number and catecholamine content of chick atria after reversible sympathetic denervation with 6-hydroxydopamine

1. The characteristics of [3H]-dihydroalprenolol (DHA) binding were determined in atria from untreated chicks. [3H]-DHA binding to atrium homogenates was rapid (k1 = 8.52 X 10(8) l mol-1 min-1), reversible (k-1 = 0.47 min-1), saturable, and of high affinity (KD = 0.6-1.0 nmol/l). Isoprenaline competed for specific [3H]-DHA binding in a stereoselective manner; IC50 values (mumol/l) were: (-)isoprenaline 0.12, (+)isoprenaline 4.7. 2. The number of [3H]-DHA binding sites and catecholamine content of left and right atria were examined after injection of chicks with a single dose of 6-hydroxydopamine hydrobromide (100 mg/kg). There were transient increases in the number of [3H]-DHA binding sites in both the left and the right atrium after 6-OHDA treatment. These increases were quicker in onset and in offset in the right atrium than in the left atrium. [3H]-DHA binding was significantly increased in the left atrium at 5 and 7 days, and in the right atrium at 3 and 5 days after 6-OHDA injection. 3. Saturation binding isotherms indicated that the increase in [3H]-DHA binding was due to an increase in beta-adrenoceptor number with no change in affinity for [3H]-DHA. 4. Twenty four hours after 6-OHDA treatment there was a significant (80%) decrease in noradrenaline content of left and of right atria. 5. The decrease in noradrenaline content was reversible, noradrenaline levels returning to 55% of control in left atrium and to 71% of control in right atrium by 21 days after 6-OHDA treatment. These changes are consistent with reversible sympathetic denervation of the atria.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Basal ganglia and cerebral cortical distribution of dopamine D1- and D2-receptors in neonatal and adult cat brain

Quantitative receptor autoradiography was performed on neonatal and adult cat brains. Serial sections through the basal ganglia were assayed for D1- and D2-dopamine receptors and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) staining. The neonatal basal ganglia revealed patches of increased D1-receptor density that frequently overlapped with patches of increased AChE staining, while the D2-receptor distribution was more homogeneous. The adult basal ganglia revealed a mild amount of heterogeneity for both the D1- and D2-receptors, varying from 10 to 25%, with little correspondence to the marked heterogeneity seen with AChE staining. A distinct laminar distribution of the D1-receptor, without significant D2 binding, was seen in the cerebral cortex.

Solubilization of dopamine D2 receptors with a zwitterionic detergent DCHAPS

Dopamine D2 receptors were solubilized from synaptosomal membranes of the bovine caudate nucleus using a novel zwitterionic detergent 3-[(3-deoxycholamidopropyl)-dimethylammonio]-1-propane sulfonate (DCHAPS) supplemented with 1,2-propylene glycol. Optimal conditions for solubilization were: 0.12% DCHAPS, 5% 1,2-propylene glycol, 8 mg/ml membrane protein, 30 min, 4 degrees and the yield of the D2 receptors was 36.1%. The soluble extract retained the ability to bind [3H]spiperone. This binding was of high affinity (Kd = 2.28 +/- 0.16 nM), reversible and saturable (Bmax = 1.68 +/- 0.06 pmol/mg protein). The order of potencies of dopamine agonists and antagonists for inhibition of binding, paralleled that observed on membrane-bound D2 receptors (correlation factor r = 0.96). The stereo-specificity of solubilized receptors toward the pairs (+)-[(-)butaclamol, cis(Z)-]trans(E)flupenthixol and dihydroergosine/dihydroergosinine was pronounced.

Attempts to obtain anti(D2 dopamine receptor) antibodies via the anti-idiotypic route

Five stable hybridomas have been obtained that secrete monoclonal antibodies against the D2-dopamine receptor-selective drug spiperone. Each monoclonal antibody has been characterized in terms of its ability to bind a range of dopamine-receptor-selective ligands. One monoclonal antibody has been purified by Protein A affinity chromatography and used to immunize mice. Anti-idiotypic antisera and one hybridoma secreting an anti-idiotypic monoclonal antibody were obtained and shown to inhibit [3H]spiperone binding to the anti-spiperone antibody used for immunization. Neither the antisera nor the anti-idiotypic monoclonal antibody, however, inhibited binding of [3H]spiperone to D2-dopamine receptors.

[125I]Spiperone is not a useful ligand for studying the CHAPS solubilized dopamine D-2 receptor from rat striatum

The interaction of [125I]spiperone and [3H]spiperone with CHAPS solubilized preparations of rat striatal tissue has been compared. Only about 15% of [125I]spiperone binding was displaced by sulpiride compared with about 67% of [3H]spiperone binding. In the presence of (+)-butaclamol the displacement of [125I]spiperone was twice that found with sulpiride suggesting an interaction with sites other than D-2 receptors. The specific binding of [125I]spiperone was not saturable within the maximum concentration range that could be employed and its affinity for soluble preparations was far lower than that of [3H]spiperone. Despite its very high specific activity [125I]spiperone offers no advantage over [3H]spiperone in the identification of dopamine receptors in soluble tissue preparations.

Guanine nucleotide effects on agonist binding at D2 dopamine receptors in bovine anterior pituitary

[3H]Spiperone binding to D2 dopamine receptors on bovine anterior pituitary membranes is of high affinity, saturable and unaffected by guanine nucleotides. Antagonist displacement of [3H]spiperone binding is characterised by pseudo Hill coefficients close to one and is unaffected by guanine nucleotides. Agonist displacements show pseudo Hill coefficients less than one and agonist affinities are reduced by guanine nucleotides, although pseudo Hill coefficients are essentially unchanged. Agonist displacement curves may be treated in terms of two agonist binding sites with different agonist affinities, and in the presence of guanine nucleotides the two-binding site model remains the best description of the data.

Regional distribution of the dopamine D2 receptors in the mesotelencephalic dopamine neuron system of human brain

Using the [3H]spiroperidol binding technique, we performed a regional distribution of the D2 receptors in the human mesotelencephalic dopamine neuron system. D2 receptors were found in decreasing order of concentration in caudate nucleus greater than putamen greater than nucleus accumbens greater than globus pallidus greater than amygdala greater than substantia nigra. D2 receptors could not be detected in any cortical region. The nigrostriatal and mesolimbic components of the mesotelencephalic dopamine neuron system are easily to reconstitute. If there exists a mesocortical component in man, its actions appear not to be mediated by D2 receptors.

D2 dopamine receptors in calf globus pallidus: agonist high- and low-affinity sites not regulated by guanine nucleotide

By use of the radioligand [3H]spiroperidol, D2 3,4-dihydroxyphenylethylamine (dopamine) receptor binding characteristics were studied in calf globus pallidus and compared with those of neostriatum. Antagonist competition curves were monophasic and revealed similar affinities for neostriatum and globus pallidus, suggesting a uniform receptor population with one affinity state for antagonists. In both regions, competition curves with the agonist dopamine were biphasic, distinguishing a high- and low-agonist-affinity state. In neostriatum and globus pallidus, respectively, 45% and 19% of [3H]spiroperidol binding was displaced with high affinity and the remainder with low affinity. In neostriatum, the addition of 0.4 mM GTP resulted in a partial conversion from high- to low-affinity state with a remaining high-affinity component of 15%. In globus pallidus, dopamine binding was not altered by GTP. The capability of GTP to modulate agonist binding to D2 receptors appears to be dependent on their neuroanatomical localization.

[3H]205-501, a non-catechol dopaminergic agonist, labels selectively and with high affinity dopamine D2 receptors

[3H]205-501, a noncatechol dopaminergic agonist, is presented as a ligand with high affinity (KD approximately 1 nM) and high selectivity for dopamine receptors. pKi values of dopaminergic agonists derived from competition isotherms in the [3H]205-501 binding assay correlate very well with their potency in the acetylcholine release assay, which is controlled by dopamine D2 receptors. There is however no correlation with their potency stimulating adenylate cyclase, a process controlled by dopamine D1 receptors. Thus [3H]205-501 is the first agonist ligand selective for dopamine D2 receptors.

Partial purification of dopamine D2 receptors using lectin affinity columns

Dopamine D2 receptors, detected by [3H]spiperone binding, were solubilized from bovine caudate nucleus by cholate/sodium chloride and were found to bind to wheat germ agglutinin immobilized on agarose. Specific elution could be achieved with N-acetylglucosamine whereas other sugars tested were inactive in this regard. The eluted preparation was enriched in solubilized receptors about sevenfold. The pharmacological properties of the preparation were essentially unchanged by the lectin affinity purification procedure. The D2 dopamine receptor is therefore a glycoprotein.

Characterization of (3H)-spiperone binding to alpha 1-adrenergic receptors in a smooth muscle cell line

Although (3H)-spiperone has been demonstrated to interact at both dopamine (D2) and serotonin (S2) receptors, it remains a popular choice for characterization of the D2-receptor using both in vitro and in vivo and in vivo assay techniques. Using a clonal smooth muscle cell culture line (DDT1 MF-2), which has previously viously been characterized as possessing alpha 1- and beta 2-adrenergic receptors, we have found that (3H)-spiperone also has a significant affinity for alpha 1-adrenergic receptors. Our results are consistent with other literature reports which have suggested that spiperone may interact at alpha 1-receptors and we have characterized this interaction. We have also found an additional, high affinity binding site for spiperone on these cells which may represent a D2 - receptor. Characterization of this high-affinity site has been difficult since it is present in very low density. We conclude that (3H)-spiperone binds with high affinity to at least three known neurotransmitter receptor sites: D2-dopamine, S2-serotoninn and alpha 1-adrenergic. The binding to the alpha 1-adrenergic receptor exhibits stereospecificity and a considerable degree of similarity in pharmacological profile to the D2-dopamine receptor.

The use of a prostacyclin analogue, [3H]iloprost, for studying prostacyclin-binding sites on human platelets and neuronal hybrid cells

The stable prostacyclin analogue [3H]iloprost has been used for labelling prostacyclin-binding sites on human platelets and NCB-20 neuronal hybrid cells. The ligand-binding properties of the sites have been determined and correlate well with stimulation of cAMP synthesis in NCB-20 cells and inhibition of aggregation in human platelets.

High- and low-affinity states of striatal D2 receptors are not affected by 6-hydroxydopamine or chronic haloperidol treatment

Specific D2 binding in rat striatum was characterized and then the effects of chronic disruption of dopaminergic activity on antagonist and agonist binding to these sites were studied. D2 receptors were defined as those sites capable of binding [3H]spiperone in the presence of cinanserin, a 5-HT2 antagonist, but not in the presence of (+)-butaclamol, a D2 and 5-HT2 blocker. Saturation, competition, and kinetic analyses suggested that D2 receptors are a homogeneous population exhibiting more complex interactions with agonists than antagonists. Antagonist binding was monophasic and guanine nucleotide-insensitive whereas agonist binding was biphasic and guanine nucleotide-sensitive. D2 receptor density was elevated by more than 40% following dopamine depletion by 6-hydroxydopamine or chronic receptor blockade by haloperidol. However neither treatment altered the affinities or magnitudes of the high- and low-affinity components associated with agonist binding to the D2 receptor.

Improvement in conditions for solubilisation and characterisation of brain D2 dopamine receptors using various detergents

A series of detergents of varying chemical properties has been tested for solubilisation of bovine caudate nucleus D2 dopamine receptors using [3H]spiperone binding to assay the solubilised sites. The properties of the lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC)- and 3-[(3-cholamidopropyl)dimethylammonio]-1-propane-sulphonate (CHAPS)-solubilised preparations are described in detail. The preparations are truly solubilised, and sucrose density gradient and gel filtration data are reported. Specific [3H]spiperone binding in the LPC-solubilised preparation assayed at 4 degrees C is solely to D2 dopamine receptors. If the assay temperature is raised to 25 degrees C, the amount of specific [3H]spiperone binding is largely unchanged, but it forms a greater proportion of the total [3H]spiperone binding owing to a reduction in nonstereospecific (spirodecanone) [3H]spiperone binding at the higher temperature. The effect of raising the assay temperature is important as it enables more precise determinations of specific [3H]spiperone binding to be made. Part of the specific [3H]spiperone binding at 25 degrees C is to solubilised S2 serotonin receptors in addition to D2 dopamine receptors. Good correlations are observed between the affinities for binding of ligands to the solubilised D2 receptors and corresponding data obtained on membrane-bound receptors. Agonist binding in LPC-solubilised preparations is insensitive to guanine nucleotides. It is speculated that the spirodecanone sites represent, in part, proteolysed or damaged D2 dopamine, or S2 serotonin, receptors. In the CHAPS-solubilised preparation the pharmacological profile of [3H]spiperone binding is unclear when assayed at 4 degrees C, but in assays at 25 degrees C a clear serotonin S2 receptor component of specific [3H]spiperone binding can be discerned.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Characterization of 125I-lysergic acid diethylamide binding to serotonin receptors in rat frontal cortex

125I-Lysergic acid diethylamide (125I-LSD) is the first 125I-labeled ligand for serotonin receptor studies. Its binding to rat frontal cortex membranes is saturable, reversible, and stereospecific. Specific binding is linearly dependent on tissue concentration and represents 70-80% of the total binding. Scatchard plots of the binding data are linear with a KD of 1.5 nM, a Bmax of 12.4 fmol/mg wet weight tissue, and a Hill slope of 1.02. The binding kinetics are highly temperature-dependent. At 37 degrees C the bimolecular association rate constant is 1.28 X 10(8) min-1 M-1 and the dissociation rate constant is 0.087 min-1 (t 1/2 = 8.0 min). At 0 degrees C less than 4% dissociation occurs over 40 min and the association rate is similarly depressed. Inhibition of 125I-LSD binding by a variety of serotonergic, dopaminergic, and adrenergic ligands reveals a 5-hydroxytryptamine2 (5-HT2) serotonergic profile for this binding site. Regional distribution studies of 125I-LSD binding in rat brain show that areas with the highest levels of binding include the cortex and striatum. Iodinated radioligands can be synthesized with specific activities exceeding 2,000 Ci/mmol, which makes them approximately 75-fold more sensitive than tritiated radioligands. This high specific activity, coupled with the selectivity of 125I-LSD for 5-HT2 sites, makes this ligand a sensitive new probe for 5-HT2 serotonin receptors.

Muscarinic acetylcholine receptors in neuroblastoma cells: lack of effect of Veratrum alkaloids on receptor number

The effect of compounds that activate sodium channels on the number of muscarinic acetylcholine receptors in neuroblastoma NIE 115 cells has been investigated. The cells were used in electrically unexcitable ("control" cells) and excitable ("differentiated" cells) states. Although receptor assays using a single concentration of the radioligand [3H]scopolamine methyl chloride indicated a loss of receptors after a 6-h incubation of cells with veratrine, no true loss of receptors was seen with any of the compounds tested (veratridine, veratrine, aconitine) when full saturation analyses were performed in either control or differentiated cells. The apparent receptor loss seen with veratrine was due to a muscarinic receptor-active component of veratrine (not veratridine) occluded by the cells and released into the binding assays upon cell breakage. Veratridine and aconitine have a very low affinity for muscarinic acetylcholine receptors, and the binding of carbamoylcholine to the receptors is unaffected by tetrodotoxin, so that there is no evidence in this system for interaction between muscarinic receptors and sodium channels.

Dopamine receptor parameters detected by [3H]spiperone depend on tissue concentration: analysis and examples

The binding of lipophilic radioligands to homogenized tissue was investigated with the help of a simple, two-component model: a specific component reflects binding to a single and uniform population of sites; a nonspecific component reflects partitioning into the membrane and the entrapment of some drug present in the aqueous phase prior to separation of the particulate fraction. The results indicate that the capacity and the affinity of the receptor may be underestimated when the data are analyzed in terms of total rather than free radioligand. Errors in capacity arise when for a significant fraction of the radioligand access to the receptor is blocked by an unlabelled drug and this appears as nonspecific binding. This is most likely to occur when the partition coefficient is such that the free radioligand is located predominantly in the particulate phase. Errors in affinity reflect the tendency of the membrane to reduce the free concentration of a lipophilic drug in the aqueous phase. A further complication arises when a significant fraction of the total radioligand binds to the receptor. [3H]Spiperone binds to dopamine D2 receptors with a dissociation constant of about 50 pM and partitions into the particulate phase of brain homogenates with a membrane/buffer partition coefficient of 410. As expected, both capacity and affinity can appear to depend on the concentration of tissue used in the assay. If the partition coefficient is known, corrected estimates of both parameters can be obtained knowing only the total concentration of radioligand; if the partition coefficient is not known, the free concentration of radioligand in the aqueous phase must be measured independently. The former procedure requires that the aqueous and particulate components of the system be separated by centrifugation; with filtration, the removal of an indeterminate amount of radioligand from the membrane during washing precludes any correction based on the partition coefficient. For the specific example of [3H]spiperone in human brain, the artifacts become negligible at concentrations of protein below 0.1 mg/ml of incubate. The capacity per unit of original tissue is best determined using unwashed preparations, since about 30% of the total protein and a comparable percentage of the receptors are lost on washing.

Contamination of serotonin-2 binding sites by an alpha-1 adrenergic component in assays with (3H)spiperone

(3H)Spiperone binds to two sites in mouse cortical membranes. These binding sites are discriminated by methysergide and prazosin, but not by butaclamol, lysergic acid diethylamide, or ketanserin. One of these sites is serotonergic in nature and is the authentic S-2 binding site. The other component is adrenergic and corresponds to the alpha-1 adrenoreceptor. This alpha-1 component may be present in other S-2 binding assays using (3H)spiperone, or (3H)ketanserin. No (3H)spiperone binding to dopaminergic D-2 sites was found in mouse cortex. Methods of avoiding alpha-1 contamination of S-2 binding assays are suggested.

Interactions of agonists with D-2 dopamine receptors: evidence for a single receptor population existing in multiple agonist affinity-states in rat striatal membranes

Several lines of evidence previously indicated that [3H]spiroperidol (SPIRO) or [3H]domperidone (DOMP) might label heterogeneous populations of striatal dopamine receptors in radioligand binding studies. We have examined this possibility in rat striatum using computerized non-linear curve fitting and a method to block the unwanted [3H]SPIRO binding to S-2 serotonergic receptors. In the absence of a serotonergic antagonist, [3H]SPIRO saturation data produce curved Scatchard plots which are best computer fit by assuming the presence of two sites of different [3H]SPIRO affinities. In the presence of appropriate concentrations of ketanserin to block S-2 serotonergic binding, Scatchard plots are linear, with data modeling best to a single population of homogeneous binding sites. The D-2 dopamine receptor Bmax and [3H]SPIRO KD determined in this fashion are indistinguishable from that obtained for the higher affinity binding site by computer analysis of data obtained in the absence of ketanserin. [3H]DOMP produced indistinguishable values for D-2 receptor Bmax as well. Competitions by (-)sulpiride, metoclopramide, and DOMP for [3H]SPIRO binding sites in the presence of ketanserin are steep (Hill slope approximately 1), demonstrating that the previously observed heterogeneity of these sites is due entirely to serotonergic [3H]SPIRO binding. In contrast, agonist/3H-antagonist competition curves in the presence of ketanserin are best computer fit by assuming two independent receptor sites of high (RH) and low (RL) agonist affinity. With the addition of 5'-guanylylimidodiphosphate [Gpp(NH)p] computer analyses of agonist/3H-antagonist competition curves show an increased ratio RL/RH concomitant with apparent decreases in agonist affinities for both sites. Under some conditions, some agonist/3H-antagonist competition curves are best fit by a single site model in which agonist affinity is indistinguishable from the agonist's affinity at RL determined in the absence of Gpp(NH)p. These data are consistent with the presence of a single dopaminergic 3H-butyrophenone binding site, representing the D-2 receptor, which exists in two interconverting states differing in agonist affinity.

Spiperone: evidence for uptake into secretory granules

Spiperone, a dopamine antagonist widely used as a specific ligand for dopamine and serotonin receptors, is actively accumulated into the F4C1 strain of rat pituitary tumor cells. The accumulation of 10 nM [3H]spiperone was linear for 3 min and reached a steady state after 10 min. Spiperone accumulation was reduced 50% by preincubation with 5 microM reserpine, an inhibitor of biogenic amine transport into secretory granules, and was also blocked by monensin and ammonium chloride, both of which increase the pH of intracellular storage organelles. Uptake was not affected by replacing sodium in the buffer with lithium at equimolar concentrations. Spiperone at 1 microM inhibited by over 50% serotonin transport into membrane vesicles isolated from platelet dense granules; this concentration inhibited the Na+-dependent plasma membrane transport system less than 10%. The data indicate spiperone specifically interacts with the secretory granule amine transport system and suggest that this transport system is found in the F4C1 pituitary cell strain as well as in platelets and neurons. The data also suggest that experiments utilizing spiperone to measure dopamine and serotonin receptors be interpreted with caution.

Cyclo(Leu-Gly) has opposite effects on D-2 dopamine receptors in different brain areas

Cyclo(Leu-Gly) (cLG), a diketopiperazine analog of Pro-Leu-Gly-NH2 (MIF), affects a number of physiological and behavioral responses to the endogenous neurotransmitter, dopamine (DA). In the present series of experiments, the effect of in vivo administration of cLG (8 mg/kg) was investigated five days following subcutaneous administration. It was found that cLG administration of cLG (8 mg/kg) was investigated five days following subcutaneous administration. It was found that cLG administration caused a supersensitive behavioral response, measured by increased stereotypic sniffing, to the DA agonist, apomorphine (APO). At the same time, an increase was found in the affinity for dopamine (DA), as measured by dopamine inhibition of 3H-spiroperidol binding to D-2 DA receptors in striatum (nigro-striatal DA tract). In contrast, the same peptide treatment caused a subsensitive physiological response to APO-induced hypothermia, concomitant with a decrease in affinity for dopamine, as measured by DA inhibition of 3H-spiroperidol binding to D-2 DA receptors in hypothalamus (incerto-hypothalamic DA tract). These results suggest that a single neuromodulatory agent, the peptide cLG, can elicit diametrically opposite effects on D-2 DA receptors and on the corresponding physiological endpoints in two different brain areas.

Use of cholate/sodium chloride for solubilisation of brain D2 dopamine receptors

The use of cholate (in the presence of sodium chloride) is described for solubilising brain D2 dopamine receptors. The method described gives in high yield a preparation of solubilised D2 receptors which when assayed by [3H]spiperone binding show little interference from nonspecific and nonstereospecific binding sites. Characterisation by ultrafiltration, electron microscopy, gel filtration, and sucrose density gradient centrifugation has been achieved, showing the receptors to be truly solubilised. Pharmacological characterisation using [3H]spiperone binding suggested the presence of serotonergic S2 receptors in addition to D2 receptors. The pharmacological properties of the solubilised D2 receptors show a good correlation with those of membrane-bound receptors, although ligand binding affinities are lower in the solubilised preparation.

Guanine nucleotides reveal differential actions of ergot derivatives at D-2 receptors labelled by [3H]spiperone in striatal homogenates

The specific binding of [3H]spiperone (35 pM), as defined by the D-2 antagonist sulpiride, was potently displaced by ergot derivatives of both the ergoline and ergopeptine type, and by dopamine agonists and antagonists. The potency of the ergot derivatives ranged widely from an IC50 value of 3 nM for bromocriptine to a value of 1000 nM for the partial ergoline, LY-141865. GTP and its stable analogue, guanyl-5'-yl-imidodiphosphate (Gpp(NH)p), did not affect the affinity (100 pM) or density (30 pmol/g wet wt) of [3H]spiperone binding sites, but did decrease the potency of a number of ergoline compounds including pergolide, lergotrile and LY-141865, as well as dopamine agonists to displace [3H]spiperone binding. The affinities of the ergopeptines, bromocriptine and dihydroergocryptine, and of the isolysergic acid ergoline, lisuride, and dopamine antagonists were unaltered by the presence of guanine nucleotides. The effect was specific for guanine nucleotides, with near maximal effects on agonist affinity observed in the presence of a 100 microM concentration of nucleotide. The relative decrease in affinity found in the presence of GTP or Gpp(NH)p varied widely for individual ergot derivatives and dopamine agonists. The largest decrease was seen with dopamine itself, and agonists such as the tetralins and with LY-141865. Many ergolines had shifts in potency between those seen for agonists and antagonists, suggesting a partial agonist action at D-2 receptors. Guanine nucleotide sensitivity may represent a valuable in vitro method for studying the agonist/antagonist properties of dopaminergic drugs, such as the semi-synthetic ergoline compounds.

Solubilization of D2 dopamine receptor coupled to guanine nucleotide regulatory protein from bovine striatum

D2 dopamine receptor from bovine striatum was solubilized in a form sensitive to guanine nucleotides, by means of a zwitterionic detergent, 3-[(3-cholamidopropyl)-dimethylammonio]-1-propane sulfonate (CHAPS). The presence of sodium ion markedly increased the solubilization yield. Treatment of the membranes with 10 mM CHAPS and 0.72 M NaCl solubilized 26% of the stereospecific [3H]spiperone binding sites in the original membrane preparations. The solubilized [3H]spiperone binding sites possessed characteristics of the D2 dopamine receptor: (a) localization of the site in the striatum but not in the cerebellum; (b) high affinity to nanomolar concentrations of [3H]spiperone; (c) displacement of [3H]spiperone binding by nanomolar concentrations of neuroleptics, but only by micromolar concentrations of dopamine and apomorphine; (d) equal activity of various dopamine agonists and antagonists in the soluble and membrane preparations. Guanine nucleotides decreased the affinity of the solubilized D2 dopamine receptor for dopamine agonists, but not for antagonists. The solubilized receptor complex was eluted in Sepharose CL-4B column chromatography as a large molecule, with a Stokes radius of approximately 90 A. These results indicate that the complex between the D2 dopamine receptor and GTP binding protein remains intact throughout the solubilization procedure.

Muscarinic acetylcholine receptors in Torpedo electric organ: effect of guanine nucleotides

The effect of guanine nucleotides on the binding properties of presynaptic muscarinic receptors has been studied in a membrane preparation from the electric organ of Torpedo marmorata by measuring the competitive displacement of the radiolabelled antagonist, [3H]quinuclidinyl benzilate, by nonradioactive muscarinic ligands. The binding of the antagonists, atropine, scopolamine and pirenzepine was to a single class of sites [slope factors (pseudo Hill coefficients) close to 1] and was unaffected by 0.1 mM GTP. The binding of the N-methylated antagonists, N-methylatropine and N-methyl-scopolamine was more complex (slope factors less than 1) but also insensitive (N-methylatropine) to 0.1 mM GTP. Agonist binding was complex and could be resolved into two binding sites with relatively high and low affinities. The proportion of high-affinity sites varied with the nature of the agonist (15-80%). Agonist binding was depressed by 0.1 mM GTP, and the order of sensitivity was oxotremorine-M greater than carbamoylcholine greater than muscarine greater than acetylcholine greater than arecoline greater than oxotremorine. The binding of pilocarpine, a partial agonist, was unaffected by GTP. With carbamoylcholine as a test ligand the GTP effect on agonist binding was half-maximal at 12 microM. GDP and guanylylimidodiphosphate produced comparable inhibition of carbamoylcholine binding, but GMP and cyclic GMP were ineffective, as were various adenine nucleotides. Analysis of agonist binding in terms of a two-site model indicates that the predominant effect of guanine nucleotides is to reduce the number of sites of higher affinity.

Apparent down-regulation of muscarinic acetylcholine receptors of neuroblastoma cells by pilocarpine is due to occluded agonist

Down-regulation of muscarinic acetylcholine receptors on N1E 115 neuroblastoma cells caused by muscarinic agonists has been studied. Whereas the potent agonist carbachol provokes a true down-regulation of receptors, the down-regulation caused by the partial agonist pilocarpine is only apparent and is actually due to the presence of pilocarpine taken up by the cells and released into the binding assays upon cell breakage.