Alpha 1-adrenergic receptor mediates arachidonic acid release in spinal cord neurons independent of inositol phospholipid turnover

Role of Ca2+-independent phospholipase A2 and n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid docosahexaenoic acid in prostanoid production in brain: perspectives for protection in neuroinflammation

Various diseases of the central nervous system are characterized by induction of inflammatory events, which involve formation of prostaglandins. Production of prostaglandins is regulated by activity of phospholipases A(2) and cyclooxygenases. These enzymes release the prostaglandin precursor, the n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acid, arachidonic acid and oxidize it into prostaglandin H(2). Docosahexaenoic acid, which belongs to the n-3 class of polyunsaturated fatty acids, was shown to reduce production of prostaglandins after in vivo and in vitro administration. Nevertheless, the fact that in brain tissue cellular phospholipids naturally have a uniquely high content of docosahexaenoic acid was ignored so far in studies of prostaglandin formation in brain tissue. We consider the following possibilities: docosahexaenoic acid might attenuate production of prostaglandins by direct inhibition of cyclooxygenases. Such inhibition was found with the isolated enzyme. Another possibility, which has been already shown is reduction of expression of inducible cyclooxygenase-2. Additionally, we propose that docosahexaenoic acid could influence intracellular Ca(2+) signaling, which results in changes of activity of Ca(2+)-dependent phospholipase A(2), hence reducing the amount of arachidonic acid available for prostaglandin production. Astrocytes, the main type of glial cells in the brain control the release of arachidonic acid, docosahexaenoic acid and the formation of prostaglandins. Our recently obtained data revealed that the release of arachidonic and docosahexaenoic acids in astrocytes is controlled by different isoforms of phospholipase A(2), i.e. Ca(2+)-dependent phospholipase A(2) and Ca(2+)-independent phospholipase A(2), respectively. Moreover, the release of arachidonic and docosahexaenoic acids is differently regulated through Ca(2+)- and cAMP-dependent signal transduction pathways. Based on analysis of the current literature and our own data we put forward the hypothesis that Ca(2+)-independent phospholipase A(2) and docosahexaenoic acid are promising targets for treatment of inflammatory related disorders in brain. We suggest that Ca(2+)-independent phospholipase A(2) and docosahexaenoic acid might be crucially involved in brain-specific regulation of prostaglandins.

Docosahexaenoic acid and arachidonic acid release in rat brain astrocytes is mediated by two separate isoforms of phospholipase A2 and is differently regulated by cyclic AMP and Ca2+

1. Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and arachidonic acid (AA), polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), are important for central nervous system function during development and in various pathological states. Astrocytes are involved in the biosynthesis of PUFAs in neuronal tissue. Here, we investigated the mechanism of DHA and AA release in cultured rat brain astrocytes. 2. Primary astrocytes were cultured under standard conditions and prelabeled with [(14)C]DHA or with [(3)H]AA. Adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP) (20 micro M applied for 15 min), the P2Y receptor agonist, stimulates release of both DHA (289% of control) and AA (266% of control) from astrocytes. DHA release stimulated by ATP is mediated by Ca(2+)-independent phospholipase A(2) (iPLA(2)), since it is blocked by the selective iPLA(2) inhibitor 4-bromoenol lactone (BEL, 5 micro M) and is not affected either by removal of Ca(2+) from extracellular medium or by suppression of intracellular Ca(2+) release through PLC inhibitor (U73122, 5 micro M). 3. AA release, on the other hand, which is stimulated by ATP, is attributed to Ca(2+)-dependent cytosolic PLA(2) (cPLA(2)). AA release is abolished by U73122 and, by removal of extracellular Ca(2+), is insensitive to BEL and can be selectively suppressed by methyl arachidonyl fluorophosphonate (3 micro M), a general inhibitor of intracellular PLA(2) s. 4. Western blot analysis confirms the presence in rat brain astrocytes of 85 kDa cPLA(2) and 40 kDa protein reactive to iPLA(2) antibodies. 5. The influence of cAMP on regulation of PUFA release was investigated. Release of DHA is strongly amplified by the adenylyl cyclase activator forskolin (10 micro M), and by the protein kinase A (PKA) activator dibutyryl-cAMP (1 mM). In contrast, release of AA is not affected by forskolin or dibutyryl-cAMP, but is almost completely blocked by 2,3-dideoxyadenosine (20 micro M) and inhibited by 34% by H89 (10 micro M), inhibitors of adenylyl cyclase and PKA, respectively. 6. Other neuromediators, such as bradykinin, glutamate and thrombin, stimulate release of DHA and AA, which is comparable to the release stimulated by ATP. 7. Different sensitivities of iPLA(2) and cPLA(2) to Ca(2+) and cAMP reveal new pathways for the regulation of fatty acid release and reflect the significance of astrocytes in control of DHA and AA metabolism under normal and pathological conditions in brain.

Complex array of cytokines released by vasoactive intestinal peptide

A complex mixture of five cytokines has been shown to be released by vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP). Cytokines were measured in paired samples of culture medium and astroglial cytosol by capillary electrophoresis. This is the first description of VIP-mediated release for TNF-alpha, IL-3, G-CSF and M-CSF from astrocyte cultures. Kinetic studies after VIP treatment demonstrated a gradual but incomplete depletion of cytosolic cytokine levels, with differences observed among the cytokines. Significant increases in release were apparent within 15-30 min for all cytokines. As the recognized VIP receptors (VPAC1 and VPAC2) are linked to adenylate cyclase and also interact with pituitary adenylate cyclase activating polypeptide-38 (PACAP-38), both this homologous peptide and 8-bromo cAMP were investigated and compared to VIP-mediated release. Treatment with 1 mM 8-bromo cAMP produced cytokine release similar in amount to 0.1 nM PACAP-38, but significantly less (<50%) in comparison to 0.1 nM VIP. PACAP-38 and VIP exhibited similar EC(50)'s for the release of G-CSF and TNF-alpha; however, the maximal release was 4-6 times greater for VIP than for PACAP-38. This similarity in potency suggested a VPAC-like receptor; however, the greater efficacy for VIP in comparison to PACAP-38, combined with a lack of cAMP production at subnanomolar concentrations of VIP, suggested a mechanism not currently associated with VPAC receptors. For M-CSF, IL-3 and IL-6, the EC(50)'s of VIP were 3-30 times more potent than those of PACAP-38 in producing release. These studies suggested that multiple mechanisms mediate cytokine release in astrocytes: (1) a low efficacy release produced by PACAP-38 that is cAMP-mediated and (2) a high efficacy, VIP-preferring mechanism that was not linked to cAMP. In summary, subnanomolar concentrations of VIP released a complex array of cytokines from astrocytes that may contribute to the mitogenic and neurotrophic properties of this neuropeptide in the central nervous system.

Induction of cyclooxygenase-1 and -2 modulates angiogenic responses to engagement of alphavbeta3

Prostaglandins and cyclooxygenase (COX) have been implicated in the angiogenesis that occurs around tumours, but how they are induced is unclear. Prostaglandin formation is regulated by the availability of arachidonic acid and/or COX activity that in turn are controlled by activation of G-protein-coupled receptors or kinase receptors. Adhesion receptors provide another potential level of control as they transduce a variety of "outside-in" signals implicated in inflammation. We examined whether engagement of the vitronectin receptor (alphavbeta3) modulated prostacyclin (PGI2) formation in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (EC). Engagement of EC alphavbeta3 by vitronectin (versus fibronectin or gelatin) or by monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) LM609 and LIBS6, enhanced PGI2 generation and also induced expression of both COX-1 and -2 isoforms. Alphavbeta3 engagement also led to vascular endothelial cell growth factor (VEGF) generation and EC proliferation that was attenuated by inhibition of both COX-1 and COX-2. COX-1 inhibition also prevented new vessel formation in an in vitro model of angiogenesis that is alphavbeta3 dependent. Inhibition of angiogenesis by the COX-1 inhibitor was partially reversed by removal of the inhibitor or by addition of the stable analogue of PGI2, iloprost. These findings strongly indicate that alphavbeta3-mediated angiogenesis is partly due to induction of both isoforms of COX.

N-terminal truncation of human alpha1D-adrenoceptors increases expression of binding sites but not protein

The role of the N-terminus of human alpha(1D)-adrenoceptors was examined by deleting the first 79 amino acids (Delta(1-79)) and epitope-tagging to facilitate immunoprecipitation and detection. Following transfection into HEK293 cells, 6- to 13-fold increases in the density of specific [125I]BE 2254 binding sites were observed for both tagged and untagged Delta(1-79)alpha(1D)- compared to full-length alpha(1D)-adrenoceptors, while agonist and antagonist affinities remained unchanged. In contrast, immunoprecipitation of tagged receptors showed that full-length alpha(1D)-adrenoceptor protein was at least twice as abundant as Delta(1-79)alpha(1D)-adrenoceptor protein. Photoaffinity labelling with [125I]arylazidoprazosin showed much more intense labelling of tagged Delta(1-79)alpha(1D)- than of full-length alpha(1D)-adrenoceptors. Substantial N-linked glycosylation of tagged Delta(1-79)alpha(1D)-adrenoceptors was observed, although full-length alpha(1D)-adrenoceptors contain two consensus glycosylation sites but are not glycosylated. These results suggest that N-terminal truncation of alpha(1D)-adrenoceptors enhances processing of a binding competent form in HEK293 cells; and show a clear dissociation between abundance of receptor protein and density of receptor binding sites.

Arachidonic acid both inhibits and enhances whole cell calcium currents in rat sympathetic neurons

We recently reported that arachidonic acid (AA) inhibits L- and N-type Ca(2+) currents at positive test potentials in the presence of the dihydropyridine L-type Ca(2+) channel agonist (+)-202-791 in dissociated neonatal rat superior cervical ganglion neurons [Liu L and Rittenhouse AR. J Physiol (Lond) 525: 291-404, 2000]. In this first of two companion papers, we characterized the mechanism of inhibition by AA at the whole cell level. In the presence of either omega-conotoxin GVIA or nimodipine, AA decreased current amplitude, confirming that L- and N-type currents, respectively, were inhibited. AA-induced inhibition was concentration dependent and reversible with an albumin-containing wash solution, but appears independent of AA metabolism and G protein activity. In characterizing inhibition, an AA-induced enhancement of current amplitude was revealed that occurred primarily at negative test potentials. Cell dialysis with albumin minimized inhibition but had little effect on enhancement, suggesting that AA has distinct sites of action. We examined AA's actions on current kinetics and found that AA increased holding potential-dependent inactivation. AA also enhanced the rate of N-type current activation. These findings indicate that AA causes multiple changes in sympathetic Ca(2+) currents.

Cytosolic phospholipase A2 and the distinct transcriptional programs of astrocytoma cells

Astrocytes constitute the most abundant cell type in the nervous system. Under physiological conditions, they respond to the stimuli to which neurons are also responsive. The use of astrocytoma cell lines with well-defined morphological and functional markers has been helpful for addressing the mechanisms of signal transduction that operate in the nervous system. On the basis of the effects produced by agonists of different types of receptor (muscarinic ACh receptors, thrombin receptors, phospholipases A2 receptors and tumor necrosis factor alpha receptors), several different transcriptional programs that involve the MAP kinase-cytosolic phospholipase A2 system and the transcription factor NF-kappaB have been described.

Alpha1-adrenoceptor subtypes

Alpha1-adrenoceptors are one of three subfamilies of receptors (alpha1, alpha2, beta) mediating responses to adrenaline and noradrenaline. Three alpha1-adrenoceptor subtypes are known (alpha1A, alpha1B, alpha1D) which are all members of the G protein coupled receptor family, and splice variants have been reported in the C-terminus of the alpha1A. They are expressed in many tissues, particularly smooth muscle where they mediate contraction. Certain subtype-selective agonists and antagonists are now available, and alpha1A-adrenoceptor selective antagonists are used to treat benign prostatic hypertrophy. All subtypes activate phospholipase C through the G(q/11) family of G proteins, release stored Ca2+, and activate protein kinase C, although with significant differences in coupling efficiency (alpha1A > alpha1B > alpha1D). Other second messenger pathways are also activated by these receptors, including Ca2+ influx, arachidonic acid release, and phospholipase D. Alpha1-adrenoceptors also activate mitogen-activated protein kinase pathways in many cells, and some of these responses are independent of Ca2+ and protein kinase C but involve small G proteins and tyrosine kinases. Direct interactions of alpha1-adrenoceptors with proteins other than G proteins have not yet been reported, however there is a consensus binding motif for the immediate early gene Homer in the C-terminal tail of the alpha1D subtype. Current research is focused on discovering new subtype-selective drugs, identifying non-traditional signaling pathways activated by these receptors, clarifying how multiple signals are integrated, and identifying proteins interacting directly with the receptors to influence their functions.

Signalling functions and biochemical properties of pertussis toxin-resistant G-proteins

Pertussis toxin (PTX) has been widely used as a reagent to characterize the involvement of heterotrimeric G-proteins in signalling. This toxin catalyses the ADP-ribosylation of specific G-protein alpha subunits of the Gi family, and this modification prevents the occurrence of the receptor-G-protein interaction. This review focuses on the biochemical properties and signalling of those G-proteins historically classified as 'PTX-resistant' due to the inability of the toxin to influence signalling through them. These G-proteins include members of the Gq and G12 families and one Gi family member, i.e. Gz. Signalling pathways controlled by these G-proteins are well characterized only for Gq family members, which activate specific isoforms of phospholipase C, resulting in increases in intracellular calcium and activation of protein kinase C (PKC), among other responses. While members of the G12 family have been implicated in processes that regulate cell growth, and Gz has been shown to inhibit adenylate cyclase, the specific downstream targets to these G-proteins in vivo have not been clearly established. Since two of these proteins, G12 alpha and Gz alpha, are excellent substrates for PKC, there is the potential for cross-talk between their signalling and Gq-dependent processes leading to activation of PKC. In tissues that express these G-proteins, a number of guanine-nucleotide-dependent, PTX-resistant, signalling pathways have been defined for which the G-protein involved has not been identified. This review summarizes these pathways and discusses the evidence both for the participation of specific PTX-resistant G-proteins in them and for the regulation of these processes by PKC.

Effect of spinal kainic acid receptor activation on spinal amino acid and prostaglandin E2 release in rat

Current work has shown that spinal excitatory amino acid receptor activation can evoke physiological phenomena that may be mediated by the subsequent depolarization of glutamate-containing neurons and the activation of cyclo-oxygenase systems. To investigate this phenomenon, rats were implanted with lumbar intrathecal loop dialysis catheters for perfusion and an additional lumbar intrathecal PE-10 catheter for drug delivery. Two days after implantation, kainic acid (1 microgram) was injected intrathecally under light (0.5%) halothane anaesthesia and the spinal release of several amino acids and prostaglandin E2 was examined. Resting concentrations (mean expressed as pmol/25 microliters) of glutamate (89), aspartate (9), serine (387), glycine (597), taurine (185), asparagine (113) and prostaglandin E2 (0.43) were observed. Intrathecal kainic acid produced significant signs of arousal in the rat and evoked a significant increase (mean +/- S.E.M. of % baseline concentration) in aspartate (445 +/- 127%) and glutamate (221 +/- 35%). Prostaglandin E2 concentration was increased in the second post-injection sample (180 +/- 36%). Intrathecal pretreatment with 6-cyano-7-nitroquinoxaline-2, 3-dione (3 micrograms or 10 micrograms), a non-N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor antagonist, blocked amino acid but not prostaglandin E2 release after kainic acid injection. Pretreatment with MK-801 (10 micrograms; non-competitive NMDA receptor antagonist) had no significant effect on evoked release of amino acids or prostaglandin E2. Indomethacin (10 micrograms, a cyclo-oxygenase inhibitor) pretreatment significantly decreased baseline prostaglandin E2 release in control animals (61 +/- 6%) and suppressed kainic acid-evoked aspartate, taurine and prostaglandin E2 release, but had no effect on the concentration of glutamate after kainic acid injection. These data suggest that activation of spinal kainic acid receptors provides a powerful stimulus for secondary excitatory amino acid release and, consistent with the concurrent appearance of prostaglandin E2, that this release is potentiated by the release of a cyclo-oxygenase product.

Differential involvement of calcium channels and protein kinase-C activity in GnRH-induced phospholipase-C, -A2 and -D activation in a gonadotrope cell line (alpha T3-1)

The mode of action of GnRH on pituitary gonadotropes involves metabolism of phospholipids, protein kinase-C (PKC) and voltage sensitive Ca2+ channels (VSCC) activation. We have studied the differential role of PKC and VSCC on the coupling of the GnRH receptor with phospholipases-C (PLC), -A2 (PLA2) and -D (PLD) activities in a gonadotrope cell line (alpha T3-1), by measuring the production of inositol phosphates (IPs), arachidonic acid (AA) and phosphatidylethanol (PEt) respectively. We demonstrated that in these cells GnRH stimulated through a specific receptor, IPs formation, a rapid and sustained diacylglycerol generation, consequently AA release and a delayed PEt production in a dose-dependent manner. In contrast to GnRH-induced PLC activity, the PLA2 and PLD stimulation by the neuropeptide involved Ca2+ mobilization via VSCC activation. BAY-K8644 a VSCC agonist significantly potentiated, while the VSCC antagonist nitrendipine markedly inhibited GnRH-induced AA release and PEt production. TPA, a phorbol ester which induced a rapid and important redistribution of PKC, although unable to elicit PLC or PLA2 stimulation, specifically provoked PLD activation in a PKC-dependent but Ca(2+)-independent manner. The PKC stimulation by TPA significantly inhibited the GnRH-stimulated IPs and AA formation, while it potentiated the GnRH-evoked PEt production. This negative feed-back of PKC on GnRH-Induced PLC and PLA2 activities was reversed when PKC was either down regulated after long TPA treatments or inhibited by the PKC inhibitors, staurosporine or GF109203X. The GnRH-induced PEt formation was markedly diminished in PKC depleted cells or after PKC inhibition. Under such conditions, both agonist and antagonist of VSCC became less effective in modulating the remaining GnRH-evoked PEt formation. These results suggest that PKC, in coordination with Ca2+, plays a key role in regulating the cross-talk between the multiple phospholipases implicated in the GnRH signal transduction.

Protein kinase C-dependent activation of cytosolic phospholipase A2 and mitogen-activated protein kinase by alpha 1-adrenergic receptors in Madin-Darby canine kidney cells

We have characterized the mechanism whereby a G protein-coupled receptor, the alpha 1-adrenergic receptor, promotes cellular AA release via the activation of phospholipase A2 (PLA2) in Madin-Darby canine kidney (MDCK-D1) cells. Stimulation of cells with the receptor agonist epinephrine or with the protein kinase C (PKC) activator PMA increased AA release in intact cells and the activity of PLA2 in subsequently prepared cell lysates. The effects of epinephrine were mediated by alpha 1-adrenergic receptors since they were blocked by the alpha 1-adrenergic antagonist prazosin. Epinephrine- and PMA-promoted AA release and activation of the PLA2 were inhibited by AACOCF3, an inhibitor of the 85-kD cPLA2. The 85-kD cPLA2 could be immunoprecipitated from the cell lysate using a specific anti-cPLA2 serum. Enhanced cPLA2 activity in cells treated with epinephrine or PMA could be recovered in such immunoprecipitates, thus directly demonstrating that alpha 1-adrenergic receptors activate the 85-kD cPLA2. Activation of cPLA2 in cell lysates by PMA or epinephrine could be reversed by treatment of lysates with exogenous phosphatase. In addition, both PMA and epinephrine induced a molecular weight shift, consistent with phosphorylation, as well as an increase in activity of mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase. The time course of epinephrine-promoted activation of MAP kinase preceded that of the accumulation of released AA and correlated with the time course of cPLA2 activation. Down-regulation of PKC by overnight incubation of cells with PMA or inhibition of PKC with the PKC inhibitor sphingosine blocked the stimulation of MAP kinase by epinephrine and, correspondingly, epinephrine-promoted AA release was inhibited under these conditions. Similarly, blockade of MAP kinase stimulation by the MAP kinase cascade inhibitor PD098059 inhibited epinephrine-promoted AA release. The sensitivity to Ca2+ was similar, although the maximal activity of cPLA2 was enhanced by treatment of cells with epinephrine or PMA. The data thus demonstrate that in MDCK-D1 cells alpha 1-adrenergic receptors regulate AA release through phosphorylation-dependent activation of the 85-kD cPLA2 by MAP kinase subsequent to activation of PKC. This may represent a general mechanism by which G protein-coupled receptors stimulate AA release and formation of products of AA metabolism.

ATP receptor-mediated increase of Ca ionophore-stimulated arachidonic acid release from PC12 pheochromocytoma cells

Phospholipase A2 has recently been proposed as the effector enzyme involved in the receptor-mediated release of arachidonic acid (AA). Released AA and its metabolites have been demonstrated to play an important role in the regulation of cell functions. [3H]AA release from prelabeled PC12 cells was stimulated by a Ca ionophore such as ionomycin or A23187. Although ATP and its effective analog, adenosine 5'-O-(3-thiotrisphosphate) (ATP gamma S), 2-methylthio ATP and 3'-O-(4-benzoyl)benzoyl ATP, did not stimulate [3H]AA release on their own, they did enhance Ca ionophore-stimulated [3H]AA release. The effect of ATP analogs was dose-dependent. ADP, UTP, GTP, ITP, alpha beta-methylene ATP, beta gamma-methylene ATP and 8-bromo ATP showed no effect or very limited effect. The effect of ATP gamma S was antagonized by suramin, a putative P2Y receptor antagonist. The effective ATP analogs also increased [Ca2+]i (cytosolic free Ca2+ concentration) via Ca2+ influx. However, the addition of 50 mM KCl or 10 microM bradykinin, which are well-known to increase [Ca2+]i by different pathways, did not stimulate [3H]AA release, either with or without the Ca ionophore. The addition of phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate, an activator of protein kinase C, showed no effect on [3H]AA release, either with or without the Ca ionophore. These data suggest that 1) ATP increased Ca ionophore-stimulated AA release via a P2Y-like ATP receptor, and that 2) the elevation of [Ca2+]i by ATP does not quantitatively explain the ATP-stimulated AA release in PC12 cells.

Arachidonic acid as a neurotoxic and neurotrophic substance

In this article we summarize a wide variety of properties of arachidonic acid (AA) in the mammalian nervous system especially in the brain. AA serves as a biologically-active signaling molecule as well as an important component of membrane lipids. Esterified AA is liberated from the membrane by phospholipase activity which is stimulated by various signals such as neurotransmitter-mediated rise in intracellular Ca2+. AA exerts many biological actions which include modulation of the activities of protein kinases and ion channels, inhibition of neurotransmitter uptake, and enhancement of synaptic transmission. AA serves also as a precursor of a variety of eicosanoids, which are formed by oxidative metabolism of AA. AA cascade is activated under several pathological conditions in the brain such as ischemia and seizures, and may be involved in irreversible tissue damage. On the other hand, AA can show beneficial influences on brain tissues and cells in several situations. In a recent study using cultured brain neurons, we have found that AA shows quite distinct actions at a narrow concentration range, such as induction of cell death, promotion of cell survival and enhancement of neurite extension. The neurotoxic action is mediated by free radicals generated by AA metabolism, whereas the neurotrophic actions are exerted by AA itself. The observed in vitro actions of AA might be related to important roles of AA in brain pathogenesis and neural development.

Effects of ageing and adrenergic stimulation on alpha 1- and beta-adrenoceptors and phospholipid fatty acids in rat heart

The purpose of this study was to examine the influence of ageing on the alterations in binding characteristics of adrenoceptors and membrane phospholipid fatty acids in rat heart following repeated administration of epinephrine. The maximal number of binding sites (Bmax) and dissociation constant (Kd) of [3H]prazosin and [3H]dihydroalprenolol binding to alpha 1- and beta-adrenoceptors, respectively, changed significantly during ageing. The downregulation of alpha 1- and beta-adrenoceptors after repeated epinephrine administration for one week, did not differ with age, but the response of the affinity (1/Kd) of both alpha 1- and beta-adrenoceptors to epinephrine treatment was age dependent. In 3-month-old rats the affinity of alpha 1-adrenoceptors was decreased after epinephrine treatment but the affinity of beta-adrenoceptors was unchanged. In 10- and 23-month-old rats the affinity of beta-adrenoceptors decreased after epinephrine treatment but the affinity of alpha 1-adrenoceptors did not change. During ageing the linoleic acid (18:2(n-6)) level decreased in phosphatidylcholine and the arachidonic acid (20:4(n-6)) level increased in phosphatidylcholine and phosphatidylethanolamine. After epinephrine administration the 18:2(n-6) level decreased and the docosahexaenoic acid (22:6(n-3)) level increased in phosphatidylcholine and phosphatidylethanolamine and those changes were not age dependent. The 20:4(n-6) level increased in phosphatidylcholine after epinephrine administration, but that increase was smaller in old than in young rats. The results show that both ageing and epinephrine administration simultaneously modify the fatty acid composition of membrane phospholipids and the binding properties of alpha 1- and beta-adrenoceptors in rat heart.

Characterization of [hydroxyproline9]luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone and its smallest precursor forms in immortalized luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone-secreting neurons (GT1-7), and evaluation of their mode of action on pituitary cells

[Hydroxyproline9]luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone ([Hyp9]LHRH), an endogenous hydroxylated post-translational product of the LHRH sequence, has been isolated from mammalian hypothalamus. Using the LHRH-hypothalamic cell line (GT1-7) of fetal origin, we attempted to define the substrates available for the hydroxylation process during LHRH synthesis and to characterize immunologically the [Hyp9]LHRH and pro-[Hyp9]LHRH forms with anti-LHRH antibodies of different specificities after separation by HPLC. Their biological activity and mode of action were evaluated and compared to that of LHRH and LHRH intermediate precursors in normal pituitary cells and in a gonanodotrope cell line alpha T3-1. immunoreactivity was progressively increased in cells and media during cell culture. [Hyp9]LHRH and its two smallest precursor forms ([Hyp9]LHRH-(Gly11) and -(11-13)) were detected in cells and in media. They were simultaneously detected with the homologous LHRH molecular forms indicating that the hydroxylation occurs early in the processing of pro-LHRH. [Hyp9]LHRH-like molecules were more abundant than LHRH forms in media. This predominant release may thus represent a physiological process occurring during fetal life. Free acid forms of both decapeptides were detected only in cells. Furthermore, the results obtained suggest that conversion of Gln1 in pyroGlu1 occurs before or during processing into the hydroxylated or non-hydroxylated LHRH intermediate (11-13)-precursors. The biosynthetic pathway is thus common for both decapeptides and it is not altered by the hydroxylation process. LHRH and [Hyp9]LHRH shared the same receptor for their biological activity, as assessed by measuring luteinizing hormone release and activation of phospholipase C and A2. [Hyp9]LHRH was, however, less potent than LHRH.

Spatiotemporal alterations of central alpha 1-adrenergic receptor binding sites following amygdaloid kindling seizures in the rat: autoradiographic studies using [3H]prazosin

Noradrenergic neurons are thought to be involved in the process of seizure development and long-term central nervous system plasticity associated with kindling and epilepsy. These processes involve actions of noradrenaline at alpha 1-, alpha 2- and beta 1-adrenergic receptors. In this study, quantitative in vitro autoradiography was used to investigate possible changes in the density of brain alpha 1-adrenergic receptors in a kindling model of epilepsy in the rat. Kindling was produced by daily unilateral stimulation of the amygdala. The alpha 1A+alpha 1B subtypes of adrenergic receptors were labelled with the alpha 1-selective antagonist, [3H]prazosin and alpha 1B receptors, detected in the presence of 10 nM WB4101 to selectively occupy alpha 1A receptors, accounted for 50% of total alpha 1 receptors in cerebral cortex. Autoradiographic studies identified significant and long-lasting, ipsilateral increases in specific [3H]prazosin binding throughout layers I-III of the cortex in sham-operated, unstimulated rats, presumably caused by the surgical implantation of the stimulating electrode within the basolateral amygdaloid nucleus. Binding to alpha 1A + alpha 1B receptors and alpha 1B receptors was increased by an average of 35 and 60%, respectively under these conditions. Stimulation-evoked seizures produced dramatic bilateral increases in specific [3H]prazosin binding to alpha 1A + alpha 1B receptors and particularly to alpha 1B receptors in layers I-III of all cortical areas examined. These changes were rapidly induced and the largest increases (range alpha 1A + alpha 1B 80-340%; alpha 1B 165-380%) occurred at 0.5-2 h after the last stage 5 kindled seizure. At 1 and 3 days after the last seizure, increases were measured for both alpha 1A + alpha 1B and alpha 1B receptors in layers I-III of particular cortical regions, but not overall (e.g. 60-210% increase in perirhinal cortex at both times, with increases also in retrosplenial, hindlimb, occipital, parietal and temporal cortices). Between 2-8 wk post-stimulation specific receptor binding levels were equivalent to those in sham-operated, unstimulated rats. In contrast to the large and widespread increases in outer cortical [3H]prazosin binding, smaller increases were detected in the inner cortex (layer V-VI) at individual times (65-75% increase at 30 min), while no significant changes occurred in several other brain regions examined, including thalamus, which contained a high density of alpha 1A and alpha 1B receptors, or hippocampus which has a low density of both alpha 1 receptor subtypes.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)

Arachidonic acid: toxic and trophic effects on cultured hippocampal neurons

Arachidonic acid (20:4) is a component of membrane lipids that has been implicated as a messenger both in physiological and pathophysiological processes, including ischemic injury and synaptic plasticity. In order to clarify direct trophic or toxic effects of arachidonic acid on central neurons, primary cultures of rat hippocampal neurons were exposed to arachidonic acid under chemically-defined conditions. Arachidonic acid present in the culture medium at concentrations over 5 x 10(-6) M showed profound toxicity, whereas at lower concentrations (10(-6) M) it significantly supported the survival of hippocampal neurons. These effects were not mimicked by oleic acid (18:1) or palmitic acid (16:0). The toxic action of 10(-5) M arachidonic acid was markedly and significantly prevented by a lipoxygenase inhibitor nordihydroguaiaretic acid (10(-6) M). AA861 and baicalein (each at 10(-6) M), a selective inhibitor for 5- and 12-lipoxygenase, respectively, also showed a significant protective effect, whereas cyclooxygenase inhibitor indomethacin (10(-5) M) had no effect. The toxic action was also prevented by an antioxidant alpha-tocopherol (10(-6) M), but not by superoxide dismutase (100 U/ml) or catalase (200 U/ml). The trophic effect of 10(-6) M arachidonic acid was not suppressed by the treatments listed above. At lower concentrations (10(-7)-10(-6) M), arachidonic acid promoted neurite elongation, which was not inhibited by nordihydroguaiaretic acid or indomethacin. Overall, arachidonic acid has both trophic and toxic actions on cultured hippocampal neurons, part of which involves its metabolism by lipoxygenases. The mechanisms and the physiological significance of these effects are discussed.

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and spinal nociceptive processing

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs have a direct action on spinal nociceptive processing in vivo with a relative order of potency which correlates with their capacity as inhibitors of cyclooxygenase activity. However, recent clinical surveys and new in vivo evidence strongly suggest that for some of these agents, centrally mediated analgesia may also be achieved by additional mechanisms, which are independent of prostaglandin synthesis inhibition. In this review we explore the likelihood for such mechanisms following an extensive survey of existing data. The implications of these mechanisms are discussed in the light of our current understanding of spinal nociceptive processing.

Opposing actions of D1- and D2-dopamine receptors on arachidonic acid release and cyclic AMP production in striatal neurons

D1- and D2-dopamine receptors exert important physiological actions on striatal neurons, but the intracellular second messenger pathways activated by these receptors are still incompletely understood. Using primary cultures of rat striatal cells, we have examined the effects of activating D1 or D2 receptors on arachidonic acid (AA) release and cyclic AMP accumulation. In striatal neurons labeled by incubation with [3H]AA, D2-receptor stimulation enhanced release of [3H]AA produced by application of the Ca2+ ionophore A23187 or of the purinergic agonist ATP. By contrast, D1-receptor stimulation inhibited [3H]AA release. This inhibitory effect of D1 receptors was accompanied by stimulation of adenylyl cyclase activity, measured as accumulation of cyclic AMP, and was mimicked by application of the adenylyl cyclase activator forskolin. The results indicate the existence of a novel signaling pathway for D2 and D1 receptors in striatum, potentiation and inhibition, respectively, of Ca(2+)-evoked AA release.

Calcium-sensitive cytosolic phospholipase A2 (cPLA2) is expressed in human brain astrocytes

Calcium-sensitive cytosolic phospholipase A2 (cPLA2) is responsible for receptor-mediated liberation of arachidonic acid, and thus plays an important role in the initiation of the inflammatory lipid-mediator cascade generating eicosanoids and platelet-activating factor. In this study we have investigated the cellular distribution of cPLA2 in brain using a monoclonal antibody raised against cPLA2 to immunostain tissue sections of human cerebral cortex. We have localized cPLA2 in astrocytes of the gray matter. Colocalization with glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) confirmed that cPLA2 is associated predominantly with protoplasmic astrocytes. Astrocytes of the white matter, on the other hand, were not immunoreactive. In experiments using different human astrocytoma cell lines we found that cPLA2 can be immunochemically localized in UC-11 MG cells, but cannot be detected in U-373 MG cells. This finding is consistent with the observation that cPLA2 mRNA as well as cPLA2 enzymatic activity can be readily measured in UC-11 MG astrocytoma cells, yet cannot be detected in U-373 MG cells. Our data suggest that the astrocyte is a primary source of cPLA2 in the brain and provide further evidence for the importance of this cell type in inflammatory processes in the brain.

Inhibition of bioenergetics alters intracellular calcium, membrane composition, and fluidity in a neuronal cell line

The effect of inhibited bioenergetics and ATP depletion on membrane composition and fluidity was examined in cultured neuroblastoma-glioma hybrid NG108-15 cells. Sodium cyanide (CN) and 2-deoxyglucose (2-DG) were used to block, oxidative phosphorylation and anaerobic glycolysis, respectively. Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) Ca(2+)-pump activity measured by 45Ca2+ uptake was > 92% inhibited in intact cells incubated with CN (1 mM) and 2-DG (20 mM) for 30 min. In addition, exposure of cells to CN and 2-DG caused a 134% increased release of isotopically labeled arachidonic acid (3H-AA) or arachidonate-derived metabolites from membranes. Removal of Ca2+ from the incubation medium ablated the CN/2-DG induced release of 3H-AA or its metabolites. Membrane fluidity of intact cells was measured by electron spin resonance spectroscopy using the spin label 12-doxyl stearic acid. The mean rotational correlation time (tau c) of the spin label increased 49% in CN/2-DG exposed cells compared to controls, indicating a decrease in membrane fluidity. These results show that depletion of cellular ATP results in inhibition of the ER Ca(2+)-pump, loss of AA from membranes, and decreased membrane fluidity. We propose that impaired bioenergetics can increase intracellular Ca2+ as a result of Ca(2+)-pump inhibition and thereby activate Ca(2+)-dependent phospholipases causing membrane effects. Since neurons derive energy predominantly from oxidative metabolism, ATP depletion during brain hypoxia may initiate a similar cytotoxic mechanism.

Polyunsaturated fatty acids in heart muscle and alpha 1-adrenoceptor binding properties

Modifications of membrane phospholipids and binding characteristics of adrenoceptors by hydrocortisone and epinephrine were examined in sarcolemmal preparation from rat heart muscle. The influence of hydrocortisone and epinephrine on the fatty acid composition of membrane phospholipids and the affinity (1/Kd) and number of binding sites (Bmax) of alpha 1- and beta-adrenoceptors was studied in male Wistar rats treated daily for 7 days with the hormones. The alpha 1- and beta-adrenoceptors were characterized by using the antagonist ligands [3H]prazosin and [3H]dihydroalprenolol, respectively. Administration of the hormones altered significantly the composition of fatty acids, decreased linoleic acid (18: 2(n-6)) level of both phosphatidylcholine and phosphatidylethanolamine, and increased arachidonic acid (20: 4(n-6)) level of phosphatidylcholine and docosahexaenoic acid (22: 6(n-3)) level in both phosphatidylcholine and phosphatidylethanolamine. The binding sites of alpha 1-adrenoceptors were of high affinity in the control group. Following administration of the hormones Kd of alpha 1-adrenoceptors increased markedly. The number of alpha 1-adrenoceptors binding sites did not change significantly due to the hormones. In contrast, while the hormone treatments did not alter the affinity of the beta-adrenoceptors the number of binding sites were significantly decreased by the hormones. The results indicate that the decrease in affinity of alpha 1-adrenoceptors and the down-regulation of beta-adrenoceptors is accompanied by alteration in percentage fatty acid compositions of phosphatidylethanolamine and phosphatidylcholine in cardiac muscle.

Meningocortical lesion increases expression of the cholecystokinin gene in rat cerebral cortex: evidence for the involvement of platelet-activating factor (PAF)

In rat neocortex, interneurons express the gene encoding cholecystokinin. After an injury to the meninges and the underlying cortex the levels of cholecystokinin mRNA are transiently enhanced in the ipsilateral hemisphere. In the present study, we have investigated, whether platelet-activating factor plays a role in this phenomenon. Two antagonists of platelet-activating receptors, i.e. WEB 2086 (1.5 mg/kg) and brotizolam (10 mg/kg), were used. When injected 30 min prior to the injury of the parietal cortex, both agents reduced the rise in the concentration of cholecystokinin mRNA in frontal cortex by approximately 60%. They had no significant effect when given 30 min after the injury. Our finding that antagonists of platelet-activating factor receptors diminish the injury-induced change in the activity of cholecystokinin-interneurons opens the possibility that these agents may also affect other pathophysiological aspects of brain trauma.

Purinergic P2Y receptors on astrocytes are directly coupled to phospholipase A2

ATP stimulates arachidonic acid mobilization and eicosanoid production in cultured astrocytes via P2Y-purinergic receptors. To assist in determining the mechanism of phospholipase A2 activation and the role of calcium in eicosanoid production, cultures were pretreated with pertussis toxin (PTx). ATP-evoked eicosanoid release was inhibited by PTx in a concentration-dependent fashion. Inositol phospholipid hydrolysis was partially attenuated by PTx, but the concentrations required were approximately 50 times greater than those for inhibition of eicosanoid production, suggesting that phospholipase C activation is not necessary for eicosanoid synthesis. Stimulation of eicosanoid release by other P2Y-purinergic receptor agonists was also inhibited by PTx; however, PTx had no effect on eicosanoid release evoked by ionomycin or thapsigargin, nor did it affect ATP-stimulated calcium influx or mobilization from intracellular stores. Increases in intracellular free calcium concentration alone were insufficient to stimulate eicosanoid production, but maximal production was dependent upon the concentration of extracellular calcium. These results suggest that the P2Y-purinergic receptor is coupled to phospholipase A2 via a guanine nucleotide-binding protein, and that extracellular calcium may also be involved in the synthesis of eicosanoids by astrocytes.

Chronic reserpine administration selectively up-regulates beta 1- and alpha 1b-adrenergic receptors in rat brain: an autoradiographic study

Rats were treated for 15 days with reserpine or vehicle. One day after the last treatment, animals were killed and frozen brain sections were prepared for in vitro autoradiography. Binding to beta-adrenergic receptors was measured with [125I]iodocyanopindolol, and binding selective for beta 1 and beta 2 subtypes was assessed by including non-radioactive drugs that selectively mask beta receptor subtypes. Total alpha 1-adrenergic receptor binding was measured with [3H]prazosin, while alpha 1a binding was measured with [3H]WB4101 (in the presence of unlabeled serotonin). Quantitative densitometric analysis revealed that chronic reserpine treatment caused an increase in beta binding throughout the brain, including the cortex, thalamus, amygdala, hippocampus, caudate-putamen and hypothalamus. This effect of reserpine was entirely confined to the beta 1 subtype in all regions examined. [3H]Prazosin binding (alpha 1a plus alpha 1b) was also increased after chronic reserpine in several regions of the cortex and thalamus, as well as the ventral hippocampus and caudal amygdala. No effect of chronic reserpine was seen on [3H]WB4101 binding, indicating that the effect of reserpine on alpha 1 receptors is limited to the alpha 1b subtype. The increase in alpha 1b binding after reserpine administration in rats was generally smaller and less widespread than that seen with beta 1 binding. Thus the effect of reserpine upon noradrenergic neurotransmission demonstrates a high degree of receptor specificity and regional selectivity.

NMDA receptor activation stimulates phospholipase A2 and somatostatin release from rat cortical neurons in primary cultures

We have recently shown that glutamate exerts a stimulatory action on somatostatin secretion in cortical neurons essentially through NMDA receptor sites. Here, we investigated whether arachidonic acid release could be modified after NMDA receptor activation in cortical neurons in primary culture. We also studied whether pharmacological manipulation of phospholipase A2 could modify somatostatin release. We found that both glutamate and NMDA (N-methyl-D-aspartate) stimulated [3H]arachidonic acid release. NMDA-evoked arachidonic acid release was inhibited by MK-801 and TCP (two NMDA receptor-type antagonists), or by mepacrine, an inhibitor of phospholipase A2. NMDA-induced somatostatin release was inhibited by MK-801, mepacrine and by another phospholipase A2 inhibitor, p-bromophenacylbromide (pBPB). However, responses to NMDA were unaffected by H7, NDGA (nordihydroguaiaretic acid), indomethacin or by RHC 80267 (inhibitors of protein kinase C, lipooxygenase, cyclooxygenase and diacylglycerol lipase, respectively). Mepacrine (greater than or equal to 100 microM) decreased NMDA-stimulated phosphatidylinositol (PI) hydrolysis and at higher concentrations (250 microM) was also able to inhibit basal release whereas pBPB had no effect in the range of concentrations tested. Neomycin (which inhibits phosphatidylinositol metabolism by binding strongly and selectively to inositol phospholipids) reduced by 30% the NMDA-stimulated somatostatin release, although chronic treatment of neurons with the phorbol ester 12-myristate, 13-acetate (PMA) had no effect on this response. Melittin, an activator of phospholipase A2, was able to stimulate both arachidonic acid release and somatostatin secretion. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis of tritiated metabolites released from cortical neurons under basal or NMDA-stimulated conditions revealed that [3H]arachidonic acid was the only metabolite detectable. Furthermore, external addition of arachidonic acid increased somatostatin secretion. Our results show a correlation between the two parameters studied.

A role for glial cells in activity-dependent central nervous plasticity? Review and hypothesis

Activity-dependent plasticity relies on changes in neuronal transmission that are controlled by coincidence or noncoincidence of presynaptic and postsynaptic activity. These changes may rely on modulation of neural transmission or on structural changes in neuronal circuitry. The present overview summarizes experimental data that support the involvement of glial cells in central nervous activity-dependent plasticity. A role for glial cells in plastic changes of synaptic transmission may be based on modulation of transmitter uptake or on regulation of the extracellular ion composition. Both mechanisms can be initiated via neuronal-glial information transfer by potassium ions, transmitters, or other diffusible factor originating from active neurons. In addition, the importance of changes in neuronal circuitry in many model systems of activity-dependent plasticity is summarized. Structural changes in neuronal connectivity can be influenced or mediated by glial cells via release of growth or growth permissive factors on neuronal activation, and by active displacement and subsequent elimination of axonal boutons. A unifying hypothesis that integrates these possibilities into a model of activity-dependent plasticity is proposed. In this model glial cells interact with neurons to establish plastic changes; while glial cells have a global effect on plasticity, neuronal mechanisms underlie the induction and local specificity of the plastic change. The proposed hypothesis not only explains conventional findings on activity-dependent plastic changes, but offers an intriguing possibility to explain several paradoxical findings from studies on CNS plasticity that are not yet fully understood. Although the accumulated data seem to support the proposed role for glial cells in plasticity, it has to be emphasized that several steps in the proposed cascades of events require further detailed investigation, and several "missing links" have to be addressed by experimental work. Because of the increasing evidence for glial heterogeneity (for review see Wilkin et al., 1990) it seems to be of great importance to relate findings on glial populations to the developmental stage and topographical origin of the studied cells. The present overview is intended to serve as a guideline for future studies and to expand the view of "neuro" physiologists interested in activity-dependent plasticity. Key questions that have to be addressed relate to the mechanisms of release of growth and growth-permissive factors from glial cells and neuronal-glial information transfer. It is said that every complex problem has a simple, logical, wrong solution. Future studies will reveal the contribution of the proposed simple and logical solution to the understanding of central nervous plasticity.

Bicuculline induces free fatty acid release from phospholipids in neuro-2A cells in culture

This study characterizes free fatty acid release in a neuroblastoma cell line (Neuro-2A), a potential model system for the study of factors that control phospholipase A2 in neurons. Two compounds, bicuculline (an antagonist at gamma-aminobutyric acid receptors), and A23187 (a Ca2+ ionophore), were examined. The release of endogenous fatty acids and the turnover of radiolabeled arachidonic and docosahexaenoic acids were measured. The cells actively incorporated radiolabeled fatty acids into various glycerolipid pools. Both endogenous fatty acids and radiolabeled fatty acids were released from glycerolipids in a time-dependent manner. Phosphatidylcholine was a major source of released fatty acids. Release of free fatty acids was markedly stimulated by both bicuculline and A23187. We conclude that the Neuro-2A cells contain phospholipase activity that is sensitive to Ca2+ ionophore and bicuculline, and may provide a good system for further studies on the regulation of phospholipase A2 in neurons.

Phospholipase A and Somatostatin Release are Activated in Response to N-Methyl-D-Aspartate Receptor Stimulation in Hypothalamic Neurons in Primary Culture

Abstract We have recently shown that glutamate primarily induces somatostatin release in hypothalamic neurons through N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA)-type receptor sites. Here we report that glutamate and NMDA also stimulate the release of [(3)H]arachidonic acid in a dose-dependent manner. The NMDA-induced effects (arachidonic acid release and somatostatin secretion) were both inhibited by MK-801, an NMDA receptor-type antagonist, or mepacrine, a phospholipase A(2) inhibitor. In addition, mepacrine was able to inhibit A23187-stimulated arachidonic acid release and somatostatin secretion. p-Bromophenacylbromide, another phospholipase A(2) inhibitor, also blocked NMDA-induced secretion of somatostatin. However, responses to NMDA were unaffected by H7 (inhibitor of protein kinase C), nordihydroguaiaretic acid or indomethacin (inhibitors of lipoxygenase and cyclooxygenase). Melittin, a phospholipase A(2) activator, was found to stimulate both responses, but omission of extracellular Ca(2+) from the incubation media strongly reduced melittin-induced somatostatin release. Six-h pertussis toxin pretreatment did not significantly reduce the action of NMDA on either of the two parameters studied. High-performance liquid chromatography analysis of [(3)H]metabolites released in the medium after NMDA stimulation revealed that [(3)H]arachidonic acid was the only detectable metabolite. External addition of arachidonic acid increased the release of somatostatin, whereas E(2) and F(2)alpha prostaglandins had no effect. Our results show a close correlation between arachidonic acid release and somatostatin secretion, the two parameters we investigated.

Human astrocytes contain two distinct angiotensin receptor subtypes

The ability of angiotensin peptides to stimulate prostaglandin release and raise intracellular calcium levels by activating a phosphoinositide-specific phospholipase C was assessed in three human astrocytoma cell lines (CRTG3, STTG1, and WITG2). The addition of angiotensin II to CRTG3 cells resulted in a dose-dependent release of prostaglandin E2 and prostacyclin, the production of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate, and the mobilization of intracellular calcium. Angiotensin-(1-7), previously considered to be an inactive metabolite of angiotensin II, was as potent as angiotensin II for prostaglandin release but did not activate phospholipase C or mobilize intracellular calcium. In contrast, angiotensin-(2-8) caused only a slight increase in prostaglandin release, even though it was as effective as angiotensin II in augmenting inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate production and calcium mobilization. Moreover, neither the release of prostaglandins in response to angiotensin II or angiotensin-(1-7) nor the mobilization of intracellular calcium in response to angiotensin II required extracellular calcium. Angiotensin II and angiotensin-(1-7) caused the release of prostaglandins from all three human astrocytoma cell lines, but changes in the level of intracellular calcium in response to angiotensin II only occurred in CRTG3 cells. Although previous studies have provided evidence for angiotensin receptor subtypes on the basis of selectivity of antagonists or signal transduction mechanisms, these data suggest that human astrocytes contain multiple angiotensin receptor subtypes on the basis of their response to different angiotensin heptapeptides--angiotensin-(1-7) and angiotensin-(2-8).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

ATP-evoked arachidonic acid mobilization in astrocytes is via a P2Y-purinergic receptor

To reveal more of the mechanism whereby ATP induces arachidonic acid (AA) mobilization in astrocytes, primary cell cultures prelabeled with [3H]AA were exposed to ATP and various analogs. Release of 3H was dose and time dependent and was inhibited by blocking ATP binding. The potencies of a range of ATP analogs in mobilizing AA were consistent with that predicted for the involvement of a P2Y-purinergic receptor. Mobilization of AA was not due to non-specific cell permeabilization, as assessed by leakage of cytoplasmic lactate dehydrogenase. AA mobilization by ATP was reduced when mobilization of intracellular calcium was inhibited and in the absence of extracellular calcium. Thapsigargin, which induces release of intracellular calcium, evoked mobilization of AA and thromboxane formation, findings similar to the effects of ATP. These results suggest that ATP stimulates AA mobilization via a P2Y-purinergic receptor and that, although extracellular calcium is involved, mobilization of intracellular calcium activates phospholipase A2.

Muscarinic receptors mediate the release of arachidonic acid from spinal cord and hippocampal neurons in primary culture

Muscarinic receptors are involved in CNS neurotransmissions and have been shown to transduce their message by modulating cAMP, calcium, inositol phosphates, and more recently, by liberating arachidonic acid via phospholipase A1. We have previously shown that the alpha 1-adrenergic and 5-HT2 serotonergic neurotransmitter receptors cause the release of arachidonic acid from spinal cord and hippocampal neurons, respectively, in primary culture. In this study, we demonstrated a muscarinic receptor-mediated release of arachidonic acid in these two neural segments which occurred independent of phosphatidylinositol-specific phospholipase C. This release of arachidonic acid was neuronal (not glial) in origin and exhibited M1 muscarinic receptor pharmacology.