Development of a radioligand binding assay for 5-HT4 receptors in guinea-pig and rat brain

Development of Pleiotropic TrkB and 5-HT4 Receptor Ligands as Neuroprotective Agents

One common event that is the most detrimental in neurodegenerative disorders, even though they have a complex pathogenesis, is the increased rate of neuronal death. Endogenous neurotrophins consist of the major neuroprotective factors, while brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and its high-affinity tyrosine kinase receptor TrkB are described in a number of studies for their important neuronal effects. Normal function of this receptor is crucial for neuronal survival, differentiation, and synaptic function. However, studies have shown that besides direct activation, the TrkB receptor can be transactivated via GPCRs. It has been proven that activation of the 5-HT4 receptor and transactivation of the TrkB receptor have a positive influence on neuronal differentiation (total dendritic length, number of primary dendrites, and branching index). Because of that and based on the main structural characteristics of LM22A-4, a known activator of the TrkB receptor, and RS67333, a partial 5-HT4 receptor agonist, we have designed and synthesized a small data set of novel compounds with potential dual activities in order to not only prevent neuronal death, but also to induce neuronal differentiation in neurodegenerative disorders.

Functional Expression of IP, 5-HT4, D1, A2A, and VIP Receptors in Human Odontoblast Cell Line

Odontoblasts are involved in sensory generation as sensory receptor cells and in dentin formation. We previously reported that an increase in intracellular cAMP levels by cannabinoid 1 receptor activation induces Ca²⁺ influx via transient receptor potential vanilloid subfamily member 1 channels in odontoblasts, indicating that intracellular cAMP/Ca²⁺ signal coupling is involved in dentinal pain generation and reactionary dentin formation. Here, intracellular cAMP dynamics in cultured human odontoblasts were investigated to understand the detailed expression patterns of the intracellular cAMP signaling pathway activated by the G_s protein-coupled receptor and to clarify its role in cellular functions. The presence of plasma membrane Gα_s as well as prostaglandin I₂ (IP), 5-hydroxytryptamine 5-HT₄ (5-HT₄), dopamine D₁ (D₁), adenosine A_2A (A_2A), and vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP) receptor immunoreactivity was observed in human odontoblasts. In the presence of extracellular Ca²⁺, the application of agonists for the IP (beraprost), 5-HT₄ (BIMU8), D₁ (SKF83959), A_2A (PSB0777), and VIP (VIP) receptors increased intracellular cAMP levels. This increase in cAMP levels was inhibited by the application of the adenylyl cyclase (AC) inhibitor SQ22536 and each receptor antagonist, dose-dependently. These results suggested that odontoblasts express G_s protein-coupled IP, 5-HT₄, D₁, A_2A, and VIP receptors. In addition, activation of these receptors increased intracellular cAMP levels by activating AC in odontoblasts.

Serotonin/dopamine interaction: Electrophysiological and neurochemical evidence

The interaction between serotonin (5-HT) and dopamine (DA) in the central nervous system (CNS) plays an important role in the adaptive properties of living animals to their environment. These are two modulatory, divergent systems shaping and regulating in a widespread manner the activity of neurobiological networks and their interaction. The concept of one interaction linking these two systems is rather elusive when looking at the mechanisms triggered by these two systems across the CNS. The great variety of their interacting mechanisms is in part due to the diversity of their neuronal origin, the density of their fibers in a given CNS region, the distinct expression of their numerous receptors in the CNS, the heterogeneity of their intracellular signaling pathway that depend on the cellular type expressing their receptors, and the state of activity of neurobiological networks, conditioning the outcome of their mutual influences. Thus, originally conceptualized as inhibition of 5-HT on DA neuron activity and DA neurotransmission, this interaction is nowadays considered as a multifaceted, mutual influence of these two systems in the regulation of CNS functions. These new ways of understanding this interaction are of utmost importance to envision the consequences of their dysfunctions underlined in several CNS diseases. It is also essential to conceive the mechanism of action of psychotropic drugs directly acting on their function including antipsychotic, antidepressant, antiparkinsonian, and drug of abuse together with the development of therapeutic strategies of Alzheimer's diseases, epilepsy, obsessional compulsive disorders. The 5-HT/DA interaction has a long history from the serendipitous discovery of antidepressants and antipsychotics to the future, rationalized treatments of CNS disorders.

International Union of Basic and Clinical Pharmacology. CX. Classification of Receptors for 5-hydroxytryptamine; Pharmacology and Function

5-HT receptors expressed throughout the human body are targets for established therapeutics and various drugs in development. Their diversity of structure and function reflects the important role 5-HT receptors play in physiologic and pathophysiological processes. The present review offers a framework for the official receptor nomenclature and a detailed understanding of each of the 14 5-HT receptor subtypes, their roles in the systems of the body, and, where appropriate, the (potential) utility of therapeutics targeting these receptors. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: This review provides a comprehensive account of the classification and function of 5-hydroxytryptamine receptors, including how they are targeted for therapeutic benefit.

Rational design of novel benzisoxazole derivatives with acetylcholinesterase inhibitory and serotoninergic 5-HT4 receptors activities for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease

A rigidification strategy was applied to the preclinical candidate donecopride, an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor possessing 5-HT₄R agonist activity. Inspired by promising bioactive benzisoxazole compounds, we have conducted a pharmacomodulation study to generate a novel series of multitarget directed ligands. The chemical synthesis of the ligand was optimized and compounds were evaluated in vitro against each target and in cellulo. Structure-activity relationship was supported by docking analysis in human acetylcholinesterase binding site. Among the synthesized compounds, we have identified a novel hybrid 32a (3-[2-[1-(cyclohexylmethyl)-4-piperidyl]ethyl]-4-methoxy-1,2-benzoxazole) able to display nanomolar acetylcholinesterase inhibitory effects and nanomolar Ki for 5-HT₄R.

Neurochemical organization of the ventral striatum's olfactory tubercle

The ventral striatum is a collection of brain structures, including the nucleus accumbens, ventral pallidum and the olfactory tubercle (OT). While much attention has been devoted to the nucleus accumbens, a comprehensive understanding of the ventral striatum and its contributions to neurological diseases requires an appreciation for the complex neurochemical makeup of the ventral striatum's other components. This review summarizes the rich neurochemical composition of the OT, including the neurotransmitters, neuromodulators and hormones present. We also address the receptors and transporters involved in each system as well as their putative functional roles. Finally, we end with briefly reviewing select literature regarding neurochemical changes in the OT in the context of neurological disorders, specifically neurodegenerative disorders. By overviewing the vast literature on the neurochemical composition of the OT, this review will serve to aid future research into the neurobiology of the ventral striatum.

Inhibiting Acetylcholinesterase to Activate Pleiotropic Prodrugs with Therapeutic Interest in Alzheimer's Disease

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a multifactorial neurodegenerative disease which is still poorly understood. The drugs currently used against AD, mainly acetylcholinesterase inhibitors (AChEI), are considered clinically insufficient and are responsible for deleterious side effects. AChE is, however, currently receiving renewed interest through the discovery of a chaperone role played in the pathogenesis of AD. But AChE could also serve as an activating protein for pleiotropic prodrugs. Indeed, inhibiting central AChE with brain-penetrating designed carbamates which are able to covalently bind to the enzyme and to concomitantly liberate active metabolites in the brain could constitute a clinically more efficient approach which, additionally, is less likely to cause peripheral side effects. We aim in this article to pave the road of this new avenue with an in vitro and in vivo study of pleiotropic prodrugs targeting both the 5-HT₄ receptor and AChE, in order to display a neuroprotective activity associated with a sustained restoration of the cholinergic neurotransmission and without the usual peripheral side effects associated with classic AChEI. This plural activity could bring to AD patients effective, relatively safe, symptomatic and disease-modifying therapeutic benefits.

Serotonin Receptor Binding Characteristics of Geissoschizine Methyl Ether, an Indole Alkaloid in Uncaria Hook

Background:

Geissoschizine methyl ether (GM) is one of the indole alkaloids in Uncaria hook, and an active ingredient of yokukansan (YKS) that improves behavioral and psychological symp-toms of dementia (BPSD) in patients with several types of dementia. The pharmacological action of GM has been related to various serotonin (5-HT) receptor subtypes.

Objective:

The aim of this article is to review the binding characteristics of GM to the 5-HT receptor sub-types in the brains using our own data and previous findings.

Methods:

Competitive receptor-binding and agonist/antagonist activity assays for several 5-HT receptor subtypes were performed. Moreover, the articles describing pharmacokinetics and brain distribution of GM were searched in PubMed.

Results:

GM bound the following 5-HT receptor subtypes: 5-HT1A, 5-HT1B, 5-HT2A, 5-HT2B, 5-HT2C, 5-HT4, 5-HT5A, 5-HT6, and 5-HT7. Among these receptors, GM had partial agonistic activity for 5-HT1A receptors and antagonistic activity for 5-HT2A, 5-HT2B, 5-HT2C, and 5-HT7 receptors. Also, GM was me-tabolized by various CYP isoforms, mainly CYP3A4. Parent/unchanged GM was detected in both the blood and brain of rats after oral administration of YKS. In the brains, GM was presumed to bind to 5-HT1A, 5-HT2A, 5-HT2B, 5-HT2C, and 5-HT7 receptors on neuron-like large cells mainly in the frontal cor-tex.

Conclusion:

These results suggest that GM is a pharmacologically important alkaloid that regulates vari-ous serotonergic activities or functions by binding to multiple 5-HT receptor subtypes. Thus, this review provides recent 5-HT receptor-related evidence that GM is partly responsible for pharmacological effects of YKS.

Alterations of Expression of the Serotonin 5-HT4 Receptor in Brain Disorders

The serotonin 4 receptor, 5-HT₄R, represents one of seven different serotonin receptor families and is implicated in a variety of physiological functions and their pathophysiological variants, such as mood and depression or anxiety, food intake and obesity or anorexia, or memory and memory loss in Alzheimer's disease. Its central nervous system expression pattern in the forebrain, in particular in caudate putamen, the hippocampus and to lesser extent in the cortex, predispose it for a role in executive function and reward-related actions. In rodents, regional overexpression or knockdown in the prefrontal cortex or the nucleus accumbens of 5-HT₄R was shown to impact mood and depression-like phenotypes, food intake and hypophagia; however, whether expression changes are causally involved in the etiology of such disorders is not clear. In this context, more data are emerging, especially based on PET technology and the use of ligand tracers that demonstrate altered 5-HT₄R expression in brain disorders in humans, confirming data stemming from post-mortem tissue and preclinical animal models. In this review, we would like to present the current knowledge of 5-HT₄R expression in brain regions relevant to mood/depression, reward and executive function with a focus on 5-HT₄R expression changes in brain disorders or caused by drug treatment, at both the transcript and protein levels.

The in vitro pharmacology and non-clinical cardiovascular safety studies of a novel 5-HT4 receptor agonist, DSP-6952

The pharmacological activity of DSP-6952, a novel compound was investigated, compared to that of clinically efficacious gastrointestinal (GI) prokinetic 5-hydroxytryptamine₄ (5-HT₄) receptor agonists. DSP-6952 had a strong affinity of Ki = 51.9 nM for 5-HT_4(b) receptor, and produced contraction in the isolated guinea pig colon with EC₅₀ of 271.6 nM and low intrinsic activity of 57%, similar to tegaserod and mosapride. In the development of the 5-HT₄ receptor agonists, cardiovascular risk was deliberately evaluated, because some related prokinetics were reported to cause with cardiovascular adverse events, such as ventricular arrhythmias or ischemia. DSP-6952 showed minimal effects up to 100 μM in human ether-a-go-go-related gene (hERG) channels or guinea pig cardiomyocytes. In telemetered conscious monkeys, DSP-6952 did not affect blood pressure or any electrocardiogram (ECG) up to 180 mg/kg, p.o.; however, DSP-6952 transiently increased heart rate, as well as in anesthetized dogs. The positive chronotropic effects of DSP-6952 were completely antagonized by a 5-HT₄ receptor antagonist, and another 5-HT₄ receptor agonist, TD-5108 also increased heart rate. These effects are considered a class effect seen in clinically developing and marketed 5-HT₄ receptor agonists, and have not been regarded as a critical issue in clinical use. DSP-6952 did not induce contraction in the rabbit coronary artery up to 100 μM, which differed from tegaserod or sumatriptan. These results show that DSP-6952 does not have cardiac ischemic risk via coronary vasoconstriction. In conclusion, DSP-6952 is a promising GI prokinetic compound with partial 5-HT₄ receptor agonistic activity as well as a favorable cardiovascular safety profile.

Development of subnanomolar-affinity serotonin 5-HT4 receptor ligands based on quinoline structures

A structure–affinity relationship study led to the discovery of 7h–j as novel 5-HT₄ receptor ligands showing K_i values in the subnanomolar range.

The Effect of Serotonin-Targeting Antidepressants on Neurogenesis and Neuronal Maturation of the Hippocampus Mediated via 5-HT1A and 5-HT4 Receptors

Antidepressant drugs such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) specifically increase serotonin (5-HT) levels in the synaptic cleft and are widely used to treat mood and anxiety disorders. There are 14 established subtypes of 5-HT receptors in rodents, each of which has regionally different expression patterns. Many preclinical studies have suggested that the hippocampus, which contains abundant 5-HT1A and 5-HT4 receptor subtypes in the dentate gyrus (DG), is critically involved in the mechanisms of action of antidepressants. This review article will analyze studies demonstrating regulation of hippocampal functions and hippocampus-dependent behaviors by SSRIs and similar serotonergic agents. Multiple studies indicate that 5-HT1A and 5-HT4 receptor signaling in the DG contributes to SSRI-mediated promotion of neurogenesis and increased neurotrophic factors expression. Chronic SSRI treatment causes functions and phenotypes of mature granule cells (GCs) to revert to immature-like phenotypes defined as a "dematured" state in the DG, and to increase monoamine reactivity at the dentate-to-CA3 synapses, via 5-HT4 receptor signaling. Behavioral studies demonstrate that the 5-HT1A receptors on mature GCs are critical for expression of antidepressant effects in the forced swim test and in novelty suppressed feeding; such studies also note that 5-HT4 receptors mediate neurogenesis-dependent antidepressant activity in, for example, novelty-suppressed feeding. Despite their limitations, the collective results of these studies describe a potential new mechanism of action, in which 5-HT1A and 5-HT4 receptor signaling, either independently or cooperatively, modulates the function of the hippocampal DG at multiple levels, any of which could play a critical role in the antidepressant actions of 5-HT-enhancing drugs.

Multivalent ligands for the serotonin 5-HT4 receptor

5-HT₄ receptors are known to form constitutive dimers in membranes. To explore whether multivalency can enhance ligand interactions and/or efficacy in 5-HT₄ receptors, the structure of the partial agonist ML10302 was modified with oligo(ethylene glycol) chains, thus generating, by a gradual approach, short and long tethered bivalent or tetravalent ligands and the corresponding spanner-linked monovalent controls. Both bivalent and tetravalent ligands displayed a 10-20-fold increase in binding affinity compared to appropriate controls, but no multivalent ligand showed greater binding energy than ML10302 itself. Furthermore, the direct assessment of receptor-Gs interaction and studies of cAMP signalling indicated that multivalency does not enhance the efficacy of ML10302.

Design, synthesis, and pharmacological evaluation of multitarget-directed ligands with both serotonergic subtype 4 receptor (5-HT4R) partial agonist and 5-HT6R antagonist activities, as potential treatment of Alzheimer's disease

5-HT4 receptor (5-HT4R) activation and blockade of the 5-HT6 receptor (5-HT6R) are known to enhance the release of numerous neurotransmitters whose depletion is implicated in Alzheimer's disease (AD). Furthermore, 5-HT4R agonists seem to favor production of the neurotrophic soluble amyloid protein precursor alpha (sAPPα). Consequently, combining 5-HT4R agonist/5-HT6R antagonist activities in a single chemical compound would constitute a novel approach able to display both a symptomatic and disease-modifying effect in AD. Seventeen novel derivatives of RS67333 (1) were synthesized and evaluated as potential dual-target compounds. Among them, four agents showed nanomolar and submicromolar affinities toward 5-HT4R and 5-HT6R, respectively; one of them, 7m, was selected on the basis of its in vitro affinity (Ki5-HT4R = 5.3 nM, Ki5-HT6R = 219 nM) for further in vivo experiments, where 7m showed an antiamnesic effect in the mouse at 1 mg/kg ip.

Synthesis and evaluation of novel serotonin 4 receptor radiotracers for single photon emission computed tomography

Despite its implication in several physiological and pathological processes the serotonin subtype-4 receptor (5-HT4R) has seen limited effort for the development of radiolabeling agent especially concerning single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT). Bearing an ester function, the available ligands are rapidly susceptible to hydrolysis which limits their use in vivo. In this study the synthesis of iodinated benzamide and ketone analogs were described. Their affinity for the 5-HT4R and their lipophilicity were evaluated and the most promising derivatives were evaluated ex vivo for their binding to the receptor and for their ability to displace the reference ligand [(125)I]-SB207710.

Serotonergic modulation of the activity of mesencephalic dopaminergic systems: Therapeutic implications

Since their discovery in the mammalian brain, it has been apparent that serotonin (5-HT) and dopamine (DA) interactions play a key role in normal and abnormal behavior. Therefore, disclosure of this interaction could reveal important insights into the pathogenesis of various neuropsychiatric diseases including schizophrenia, depression and drug addiction or neurological conditions such as Parkinson's disease and Tourette's syndrome. Unfortunately, this interaction remains difficult to study for many reasons, including the rich and widespread innervations of 5-HT and DA in the brain, the plethora of 5-HT receptors and the release of co-transmitters by 5-HT and DA neurons. The purpose of this review is to present electrophysiological and biochemical data showing that endogenous 5-HT and pharmacological 5-HT ligands modify the mesencephalic DA systems' activity. 5-HT receptors may control DA neuron activity in a state-dependent and region-dependent manner. 5-HT controls the activity of DA neurons in a phasic and excitatory manner, except for the control exerted by 5-HT_2C receptors which appears to also be tonically and/or constitutively inhibitory. The functional interaction between the two monoamines will also be discussed in view of the mechanism of action of antidepressants, antipsychotics, anti-Parkinsonians and drugs of abuse.

Design of a serotonin 4 receptor radiotracer with decreased lipophilicity for single photon emission computed tomography

With the aim to develop a suitable radiotracer for the brain imaging of the serotonin 4 receptor subtype (5-HT4R) using single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT), we synthesized and evaluated a library of di- and triazaphenanthridines with lipophilicity values which were in the range expected to favour brain penetration, and which demonstrated specific binding to the target of interest. Adding additional nitrogen atoms to previously described phenanthridine ligands exhibiting a high unspecific binding, we were able to design a radioiodinated compound [(125)I]14. This compound exhibited a binding affinity value of 0.094 nM toward human 5-HT4R and a high selectivity over other serotonin receptor subtypes (5-HTR). In vivo SPECT imaging studies and competition experiments demonstrated that the decreased lipophilicity (in comparison with our previously reported compounds 4 and 5) allowed a more specific labelling of the 5-HT4R brain-containing regions.

Novel multitarget-directed ligands (MTDLs) with acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitory and serotonergic subtype 4 receptor (5-HT4R) agonist activities as potential agents against Alzheimer's disease: the design of donecopride

In this work, we describe the synthesis and in vitro evaluation of a novel series of multitarget-directed ligands (MTDL) displaying both nanomolar dual-binding site (DBS) acetylcholinesterase inhibitory effects and partial 5-HT4R agonist activity, among which donecopride was selected for further in vivo evaluations in mice. The latter displayed procognitive and antiamnesic effects and enhanced sAPPα release, accounting for a potential symptomatic and disease-modifying therapeutic benefit in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease.

Serotonin 1A and Serotonin 4 Receptors: Essential Mediators of the Neurogenic and Behavioral Actions of Antidepressants

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors are the mostly widely used treatment for major depressive disorders and also are prescribed for several anxiety disorders. However, similar to most antidepressants, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors suffer from two major problems: They only show beneficial effects after 2 to 4 weeks and only about 33% of patients show remission to first-line treatment. Thus, there is a considerable need for development of more effective antidepressants. There is a growing body of evidence supporting critical roles of 5-HT1A and 5-HT4 receptor subtypes in mediating successful depression treatments. In addition, appropriate activation of these receptors may be associated with a faster onset of the therapeutic response. This review will examine the known roles of 5-HT1A and 5-HT4 receptors in mediating both the pathophysiology of depression and anxiety and the treatment of these mood disorders. At the end of the review, the role of these receptors in the regulation of adult hippocampal neurogenesis will also be discussed. Ultimately, we propose that novel antidepressant drugs that selectively target these serotonin receptors could be developed to yield improvements over current treatments for major depressive disorders.

Synthesis and structure-activity relationship studies in serotonin 5-HT4 receptor ligands based on a benzo[de][2,6]naphthridine scaffold

A small series of serotonin 5-HT4 receptor ligands has been designed from flexible 2-methoxyquinoline compounds 7a,b by applying the conformational constraint approach. Ligands 7a,b and the corresponding conformationally constrained analogues 8a-g were synthesized and their interactions with the 5-HT4 receptor were examined by measuring both binding affinity and the ability to promote or inhibit receptor-G protein coupling. Ester derivative 7a and conformationally constrained compound 8b were demonstrated to be the most interesting compounds showing a nanomolar 5-HT4R affinity similar to that shown by reference ligands cisapride (1) and RS-23,597-190 (4). The result was rationalized by docking studies in term of high similarity in the binding modalities of flexible 7a and conformationally constrained 8b. The intrinsic efficacy of some selected ligands was determined by evaluating the receptor-G protein coupling and the results obtained demonstrated that the nature and the position of substituents play a critical role in the interaction of these ligands with their receptor.

Visceral analgesic effect of 5-HT(4) receptor agonist in rats involves the rostroventral medulla (RVM)

The 5-HT(4) receptor agonist tegaserod (TEG) has been reported to modulate visceral pain. However, the underlying mechanism remains unknown. The objective of the present study was to examine the analgesic mechanism and site of action of TEG. In male rats, visceral pain was assessed by measuring visceromotor response (VMR) to colorectal distension (CRD). Inflammation was induced by intracolonic injection of tri-nitrobenzene sulfonic acid (TNBS). The effect of TEG on the VMR was tested by injecting intraperitoneal (i.p.), intrathecal (i.t.), intracerebroventricular (i.c.v) or in the rostroventral medulla (RVM). The effect of the drug was also tested on responses of CRD-sensitive pelvic nerve afferents (PNA) and lumbo-sacral (LS) spinal neurons. Systemic injection of TEG attenuated VMR in naive and TNBS-treated rats. Similarly, supraspinal, but not spinal, injection of TEG attenuated the VMR. While GR113808, (selective 5-HT(4) antagonist) blocked the effect, naloxone (NLX) an opioid receptor antagonist reversed the effect of TEG. Although i.t. NLX did not block the inhibitory effect of TEG in VMR study, i.t. injection of α2-adrenergic receptor antagonist yohimbine blocked the effect of TEG when given systemically. While TEG had no effect on the responses of CRD-sensitive PNA, it inhibited the responses of CRD-sensitive LS neurons in spinal intact condition. This inhibition was blocked by GR113808, NLX and β-funaltrexamine (β-FNA) when injected into the RVM. Results indicate that TEG produces analgesia via activation of supraspinal 5-HT(4) receptors which triggers the release of opioids at supraspinal site, which activates descending noradrenergic pathways to the spinal cord to produce analgesia.

5-HT4-receptors modulate induction of long-term depression but not potentiation at hippocampal output synapses in acute rat brain slices

The subiculum is the principal target of CA1 pyramidal cells and mediates hippocampal output to various cortical and subcortical regions of the brain. The majority of subicular pyramidal cells are burst-spiking neurons. Previous studies indicated that high frequency stimulation in subicular burst-spiking cells causes presynaptic NMDA-receptor dependent long-term potentiation (LTP) whereas low frequency stimulation induces postsynaptic NMDA-receptor-dependent long-term depression (LTD). In the present study, we investigate the effect of 5-hydroxytryptamine type 4 (5-HT4) receptor activation and blockade on both forms of synaptic plasticity in burst-spiking cells. We demonstrate that neither activation nor block of 5-HT4 receptors modulate the induction or expression of LTP. In contrast, activation of 5-HT4 receptors facilitates expression of LTD, and block of the 5-HT4 receptor prevents induction of short-term depression and LTD. As 5-HT4 receptors are positively coupled to adenylate cyclase 1 (AC1), 5-HT4 receptors might modulate PKA activity through AC1. Since LTD is blocked in the presence of 5-HT4 receptor antagonists, our data are consistent with 5-HT4 receptor activation by ambient serotonin or intrinsically active 5-HT4 receptors. Our findings provide new insight into aminergic modulation of hippocampal output.

Modulation of the subthalamic nucleus activity by serotonergic agents and fluoxetine administration

RATIONALE

Within the basal ganglia, the subthalamic nucleus (STN) is the only glutamatergic structure and occupies a central position in the indirect pathway. In rat, the STN receives serotonergic input from the dorsal raphe nucleus and expresses serotonergic receptors.

OBJECTIVE

This study examined the consequences of serotonergic neurotransmission modulation on STN neuron activity.

METHODS

In vivo single-unit extracellular recordings, HPLC determination, and rotarod and bar test were performed in control, 4-chloro-DL-phenylalanine methyl ester hydrochloride- (pCPA, a serotonin synthesis inhibitor) and chronically fluoxetine-treated rats.

RESULTS

The pCPA treatment and the administration of serotonin (5-HT) receptor antagonists increased number of bursting neurons in the STN. The systemic administration of the 5-HT(1A) agonist, 8-OH-DPAT, decreased the firing rate and increased the coefficient of variation of STN neurons in pCPA-treated rats but not in control animals. Additionally, microinjection of 8-OH-DPAT into the STN reduced the firing rate of STN neurons, while microinjection of the 5-HT(2C) agonist, Ro 60-0175, increased the firing rate in both control and fluoxetine-treated animals. Finally, the fluoxetine challenge increased the firing rate of STN neurons in fluoxetine-treated rats and induced catalepsy.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results indicate that the depletion and the blockage of 5-HT modify STN neuron firing pattern. STN neuron activity is under the control of 5-HT(1A) and 5-HT(2C) receptors located both inside and outside the STN. Finally, fluoxetine increases STN neuron activity in chronically fluoxetine-treated rats, which may explain the role of this nucleus in fluoxetine-induced extrapyramidal side effects.

Synthesis and structure-affinity relationships of selective high-affinity 5-HT(4) receptor antagonists: application to the design of new potential single photon emission computed tomography tracers

The work described herein aims at finding new potential ligands for the brain imaging of 5-HT(4) receptors (5-HT(4)Rs) using single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT). Starting from the nonsubstituted phenanthridine compound 4a, exhibiting a K(i) value of 51 nM on the 5-HT(4)R, we explored the structure-affinity in this series. We found that substitution in position 4 of the tricycle with a fluorine atom gave the best result. Introduction of an additional nitrogen atom inside the tricyclic framework led to an increase of both the affinity and selectivity for 5-HT(4)R, suggesting the design of the antagonist 4v, exhibiting a high affinity of 0.04 nM. Several iodinated analogues were then synthesized as potential SPECT tracers. The iodinated compound 11d was able to displace the reference radioiodinated 5-HT(4)R antagonist (1-butylpiperidin-4-yl)methyl-8-amino-7-iodo[(123)I]-2,3-dihydrobenzo[b][1,4]dioxine-5-carboxylate {[(123)I]1, [(123)I]SB 207710} both in vitro and in vivo in brain. Compound 11d was radiolabeled with [(125)I]iodine, providing a potential SPECT candidate for brain imaging of 5-HT(4)R.

Dual role of serotonin in the pathogenesis of indomethacin-induced small intestinal ulceration: pro-ulcerogenic action via 5-HT3 receptors and anti-ulcerogenic action via 5-HT4 receptors

Serotonin (5-HT) exerts multiple physiological functions not only in the central and peripheral nervous systems but also in the gastrointestinal tract, and these multiple functions are accounted for by a variety of 5-HT receptor subtypes. We investigated the role of 5-HT in the pathogenesis of indomethacin-induced intestinal lesions in mice, in relation to 5-HT receptor subtypes. A single oral administration of indomethacin (10 mg/kg) provoked damage in the small intestine of mice 24 h later, and this response was prevented by pretreatment with p-chlorophenylalanine (a 5-HT synthesis inhibitor). The administration of 5-HT3 receptor antagonists, such as ondansetron and ramosetron, dose-dependently reduced the severity of the intestinal lesions, whereas a high dose of GR113808 (a 5-HT4 receptor antagonist) significantly aggravated these lesions. In contrast, NAN-190 (a 5-HT1 receptor antagonist), ketanserin (a 5-HT2 receptor antagonist), and SB269970 (a 5-HT7 receptor antagonist) had no effect on these lesions. Mosapride (a 5-HT4 receptor agonist) significantly reduced the severity of indomethacin-induced intestinal lesions, and this protective effect was totally prevented by either GR113808 or methyllycaconitine (an α7-nicotinic acetylcholine receptor antagonist). Indomethacin increased the activity of myeloperoxidase and the expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase, inflammatory cytokines, and chemokines in the small intestine; these responses were significantly attenuated by ondansetron and mosapride. These findings suggest that endogenous 5-HT exerts a dual role in the pathogenesis of indomethacin-induced intestinal lesions: pro-ulcerogenic action via 5-HT3 receptors and anti-ulcerogenic action via 5-HT4 receptors, and the latter effect via 5-HT4 receptors may be mediated by activation of α7-nicotinic acetylcholine receptors.

New serotonin 5-HT(1A) receptor agonists with neuroprotective effect against ischemic cell damage

We report the synthesis of new compounds 4-35 based on structural modifications of different moieties of previously described lead UCM-2550. The new nonpiperazine derivatives, representing second-generation agonists, were assessed for binding affinity, selectivity, and functional activity at the 5-HT(1A) receptor (5-HT(1A)R). Computational β(2)-based homology models of the ligand-receptor complexes were used to explain the observed structure-affinity relationships. Selected candidates were also evaluated for their potential in vitro and in vivo neuroprotective properties. Interestingly, compound 26 (2-{6-[(3,4-dihydro-2H-chromen-2-ylmethyl)amino]hexyl}tetrahydro-1H-pyrrolo[1,2-c]imidazole-1,3(2H)-dione) has been characterized as a high-affinity and potent 5-HT(1A)R agonist (K(i) = 5.9 nM, EC(50) = 21.8 nM) and exhibits neuroprotective effect in neurotoxicity assays in primary cell cultures from rat hippocampus and in the MCAO model of focal cerebral ischemia in rats.

Neuronal stimulation with 5-hydroxytryptamine 4 receptor induces anti-inflammatory actions via α7nACh receptors on muscularis macrophages associated with postoperative ileus

BACKGROUND

The main symptom of postoperative ileus (POI) is an intestinal motility disorder in which monocytes/macrophages and neutrophils play crucial roles. Prokinetic 5-hydroxytryptamine 4 receptor (5-HT₄R) agonists and dopamine receptor antagonists are potential therapeutic agents for directly ameliorating the motility disorder associated with POI.

AIM

To determine the effects of the 5-HT₄R agonists mosapride citrate (MOS) and CJ-033466 on intestinal smooth muscle contractility relative to immune reactions after POI.

METHODS

Intestinal manipulation (IM) was applied to the rat distal ileum. Both MOS (0.3 and 1 mg/kg, s.c.) and CJ-033466 (1 mg/kg, s.c.) were administered to the animals before and after IM. At 24 h after IM, isolated intestinal smooth muscle contractile activity in vitro, gastrointestinal transit in vivo, inflammatory mediator expression and leucocyte infiltration were measured.

RESULTS

After IM, ileal circular muscle contractility in vitro and gastrointestinal transit in vivo were reduced and the number of macrophages and neutrophils increased in the inflamed muscle layer, resulting in the induction of inflammatory mediators such as interleukin 1 β (IL-1β), IL-6, tumour necrosis factor α (TNFα), monocyte chemoattractant protein 1 (MCP-1) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS). Both MOS and CJ-033466 significantly attenuated not only the intestinal motility dysfunction but also the leucocyte infiltration and inflammatory mediator expression after IM. The autonomic ganglionic blocker hexamethonium (1 mg/kg, i.p.) and the α7-nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (α7nAChR) antagonist methyl lycaconitine citrate (0.087 mg/kg, i.p.) blocked MOS-mediated ameliorative actions. Immunohistochemically, α7nAChR is expressed by monocytes/macrophages but not by neutrophils in the inflamed intestine.

CONCLUSION

Stimulating the 5-HT₄R accelerates acetyl choline (ACh) release from cholinergic myenteric neurons, which subsequently activates α7nAChR on activated monocytes/macrophages to inhibit their inflammatory reactions in the muscle layer. In addition to their gastroprokinetic action, 5-HT₄R agonists might serve as novel therapeutic agents for POI characterised by anti-inflammatory potency.

Presynaptic control of serotonin on striatal dopamine function

RATIONALE

The influences of the serotonergic system on dopamine (DA) neuron activity have received considerable attention during the last three decades due to the real opportunity to improve disorders related to central DA neuron dysfunctions such as Parkinson's disease, schizophrenia, or drug abuse with serotonergic drugs. Numerous biochemical and behavioral data indicate that serotonin (5-HT) affects dopaminergic terminal function in the striatum.

OBJECTIVE

The authors propose a thorough examination of data showing controversial effects induced by striatal 5-HT on dopaminergic activity.

RESULTS

Inhibitory and excitatory effects of exogenous 5-HT have been reported on DA release and synthesis, involving various striatal 5-HT receptors. 5-HT also promotes an efflux of DA through reversal of the direction of DA transport. By analogy with the mechanism of action described for amphetamine, the consequences of 5-HT entering DA terminals might explain both the excitatory and inhibitory effects of 5-HT on presynaptic DA terminal activity, but the physiological relevance of this mechanism is far from clear. The recent data suggest that the endogenous 5-HT system affects striatal DA release in a state-dependent manner associated with the conditional involvement of various 5-HT receptors such as 5-HT(2A), 5-HT(2C), 5-HT(3), and 5-HT(4) receptors.

CONCLUSION

Methodological and pharmacological issues have prevented a comprehensive overview of the influence of 5-HT on striatal DA activity. The distribution of striatal 5-HT receptors and their restricted influence on DA neuron activity suggest that the endogenous 5-HT system exerts multiple and subtle influences on DA-mediated behaviors.

Synthesis, structure-affinity relationships, and radiolabeling of selective high-affinity 5-HT4 receptor ligands as prospective imaging probes for positron emission tomography

In a search for high-affinity receptor ligands that might serve for development as radioligands for the imaging of brain 5-HT(4) receptors in vivo with positron emission tomography (PET), structural modifications were made to the high-affinity 5-HT(4) antagonist (1-butylpiperidin-4-yl)methyl 8-amino-7-iodo-2,3-dihydrobenzo[b][1,4]dioxine-5-carboxylate (1, SB 207710). These modifications were made mainly on the aryl side of the ester bond to permit possible rapid labeling of the carboxylic acid component with a positron emitter, either carbon-11 (t(1/2) = 20.4 min) or fluorine-18 (t(1/2) = 109.7 min), and included (i) replacement of the iodine atom with a small substituent such as nitrile, methyl, or fluoro, (ii) methylation of the 8-amino group, (iii) opening of the dioxan ring, and (iv) alteration of the length of the N-alkyl goup. High-affinity ligands were discovered for recombinant human 5-HT(4) receptors with amenability to labeling with a positron emitter and potential for development as imaging probes. The ring-opened radioligand, (([methoxy-(11)C]1-butylpiperidin-4-yl)methyl 4-amino-3-methoxybenzoate; [(11)C]13), showed an especially favorable array of properties for future evaluation as a PET radioligand for brain 5-HT(4) receptors.

Serotonin modulates glutamatergic transmission in the rat olfactory tubercle

The olfactory tubercle (OT) is found in the brains of mammals that are highly dependent on their sense of smell. Its human analogue is the poorly understood anterior perforated substance. Previous work on rat brain slices identified two types of field potential responses from the OT. The association fibre (AF) pathway was sensitive to muscarinic modulation, whereas the lateral olfactory tract (LOT) fibre pathway was not. Here, we establish that serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine; 5-HT) also inhibits field potential excitatory postsynaptic potentials (EPSPs) in the AF, but not in the LOT fibre, pathway. Parallel experiments with adenosine (ADO) excluded ADO mediation of the 5-HT effect. Exogenous 5-HT at 30 microm caused a long-lasting approximately 40% reduction in the amplitude of AF postsynaptic responses, without affecting the time-course of EPSP decline, indicating a fairly restricted disposition of the 5-HT receptors responsible. The 5-HT(1)-preferring, 5-HT(5)-preferring and 5-HT(7)-preferring agonist 5-carboxamidotryptamine caused similar inhibition at approximately 100 nm. The 5-HT(1A)-preferring ligand 8-hydroxy-di-n-propylamino-tetralin at 10 microm, and the 5-HT uptake inhibitor citalopram at 3 microm, caused inhibition of AF-stimulated field potential responses in the 5-10% range. Order-of-potency information suggested a receptor of the 5-HT(1B) or 5-HT(1D) subtype. The 5-HT(1D) agonist L-694,247 (1 microm) suppressed the AF response by approximately 10% when used on its own. After washing out of L-694,427, inhibition by 30 microm 5-HT was reduced to negligible levels. Allowing for a partial agonist action of L-694,427 and complex interactions of 5-HT receptors within the OT, these results support the presence of active 5-HT(1D)-type receptors in the principal cell layer of the OT.

Serotonin and aggression

The neurotransmitter serotonin (5-HT) has been implicated in the modulation of aggression in animals and humans. A longstanding dogma that aggression and serotonergic activity are inversely related has to be abandoned in light of many new findings. Trait and state aggression are differentially regulated by the 5-HT system and different 5-HT receptors seem to be involved. Of the 14 different 5-HT receptors, the 5-HT(1B) receptor, particularly the postsynaptically located 5-HT(1B) heteroreceptor, plays a highly selective role in the modulation of offensive aggression. We are still far from understanding the complex role played by the serotonergic system in the modulation of a complex set of behaviors like aggression.

Pharmacology and metabolism of renzapride : a novel therapeutic agent for the potential treatment of irritable bowel syndrome

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Renzapride (ATL-1251), a novel benzamide, is currently under clinical development for the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Previous in vitro and in vivo experimental studies have characterized renzapride as a full serotonin 5-HT(4) receptor agonist on the gut and a 5-HT(3) receptor antagonist. Clinical studies have confirmed the therapeutic efficacy, tolerability and safety of renzapride in patients with constipation-predominant IBS. This study set out to characterize the pharmacological profile of renzapride and its potential metabolic products at both 5-HT and other monoamine receptors in the gut.

METHODS

The affinity of renzapride, its (+) and (-) enantiomers, and its primary metabolite, renzapride N-oxide and its enantiomers, for serotonin receptors was assessed by means of in vitro radioligand binding inhibition studies. After membranes prepared from animal tissue or membranes of cell lines transfected with cloned human receptors had been incubated with radiolabelled ligand with high affinity for a specific receptor, renzapride was added to competitively inhibit this binding. Levels of bound radioligand were measured by filtration and counting of the bound radioactivity. In instances where >50% inhibition of radioligand binding had occurred, the inhibition constant (K(i)) was calculated. Metabolism of renzapride by liver microsomes was assessed by incubating 10 micromol/L renzapride with human liver microsome samples for 60 minutes at 37 degrees C. After the reaction was stopped, the samples were centrifuged and the supernatant analysed for metabolites by high-pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC). The potential inhibitory effects of renzapride on cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzymes were assessed by incubating renzapride at various concentrations over a 1-500 micromol/L concentration range with microsomes genetically engineered to express a single CYP.

RESULTS

Renzapride was selective for serotonergic receptors and, in particular, had high affinity for human 5-HT(3) and guinea-pig 5-HT(4) receptors (K(i) 17 and 477 nm, respectively). Inhibitory properties at 5-HT(2B) receptors were also identified for renzapride, as well as some affinity for 5-HT(2A) and 5-HT(2C) receptors. Renzapride N-oxide and its enantiomers demonstrated much lower affinity for all 5-HT receptors compared with renzapride. Renzapride was metabolized by liver microsomes to a limited extent and there was no significant non-microsomal metabolism of renzapride. Renzapride did not inhibit the major CYP drug-metabolizing enzymes CYP2C9, CYP2D6, CYP1A2, CYP2A6, CYP2C19, CYP2E1 or CYP3A4 at concentrations consistent with use in a clinical setting.

CONCLUSIONS

These results confirm and extend earlier studies in animal and human receptors that show renzapride is a potent and generally full 5-HT(4) receptor agonist and 5-HT(3) receptor antagonist. The results reported in the present study indicate that the metabolites of renzapride are minor and are unlikely to contribute to its therapeutic profile or lead to interaction of renzapride with other drugs that inhibit the major drug-metabolizing enzymes in the liver at therapeutic doses. These data contribute to the understanding of the pharmacological actions and metabolic fate of renzapride in vivo.

Evaluation of the pharmacological profile of ramosetron, a novel therapeutic agent for irritable bowel syndrome

We examined the pharmacological profile of ramosetron, a 5-HT(3)-receptor antagonist for irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea, comparing it with those of other 5-HT(3)-receptor antagonists, alosetron and cilansetron, and the anti-diarrheal agent loperamide. Ramosetron showed high affinity for cloned human and rat 5-HT(3) receptors, with K(i) values of 0.091 +/- 0.014 and 0.22 +/- 0.051 nmol/L, respectively, while its affinities for other receptors, transporters, ion channels, and enzymes were negligible. Dissociation of ramosetron from the human 5-HT(3) receptor was extremely slow (t(1/2) = 560 min), while alosetron (t(1/2) = 180 min) and cilansetron (t(1/2) = 88 min) dissociated relatively rapidly. Ramosetron competitively inhibited 5-HT-induced contraction of isolated guinea-pig colon, with pA(2) values of 8.6 (8.5 - 9.0). Ramosetron given orally also dose-dependently inhibited the von Bezold-Jarisch reflex in rats, with an ED(50) value of 1.2 (0.93 - 1.6) microg/kg. In addition, oral ramosetron dose-dependently inhibited restraint stress-induced defecation in rats, with an ED(50) value of 0.62 (0.17 - 1.2) microg/kg. In all of these experiments, the potencies of ramosetron were greater than those of alosetron, cilansetron, or loperamide. These results indicate that ramosetron is a highly potent and selective 5-HT(3)-receptor antagonist, with beneficial effects against stress-induced abnormal defecation in rats.

Stimulation of growth hormone release by 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) in cultured rat anterior pituitary cell aggregates: evidence for mediation by 5-HT2B, 5-HT7, 5-HT1B, and ketanserin-sensitive receptors

5-Hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) promotes the release of GH by a hypothalamic site of action. The present study explores a putative pituitary action in a perifused rat anterior pituitary aggregate cell culture system. In aggregates cultured with 1 nM estradiol for expression of the 5-HT4, -5, and -6 receptor (R), 5-HT promptly stimulated GH secretion with a dose dependency between 1 and 10 nM. The effect of 5-HT was partially blocked by methiothepin and methysergide; by SB-206553, a 5-HTR2B/C antagonist; SB-269970, a 5-HTR7/5A antagonist; and SB-224289, a 5-HTR1B antagonist. The GH response was fully blocked by combined administration of SB-206553+SB-269970 and SB-206553+ketanserin but not by SB-206553+spiperone. Culturing the aggregates without estradiol diminished the magnitude of the GH response to 5-HT as well as the impact of 5-HTR7/5 blockade on the response. Basal GH release was stimulated by the 5-HTR2 agonists 1-(2,5-dimethoxy-4-iodophenyl)-2-aminopropane, m-chlorophenyl piperazine, and alpha-methyl 5-HT; 5-carboxytryptamine (agonist at 5-HTR1, -5, and -7); tryptamine (preferential 5-HTR7 agonist); and the selective 5-HTR1B agonist CP93129 but not the 5-HTR1A agonists 7-(dipropylamino)tetralin-1-ol-8-hydroxy-2-(di-n-propylamino)tetralin and the 5-HTR1B/D agonist sumatriptan. The selective 5-HTR2B agonist BW 723C86 stimulated GH release, and the selective 5-HTR2B antagonist SB-204741 attenuated the GH response to 5-HT. The present data suggest that 5-HT may release GH through a pituitary site of action, and that the 5-HTR2B, 5-HTR7 and 5-HTR1B mediate this response, with possibly an inhibitory component of the 5-HTR1D. The relative contribution of these receptors may be modulated by estrogen.

A comparison of the pharmacological properties of guinea-pig and human recombinant 5-HT4 receptors

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

5-HT(4) receptor agonists are used therapeutically to treat disorders of reduced gastrointestinal motility. Since such compounds are evaluated in guinea-pigs, we cloned, expressed and pharmacologically characterized the guinea-pig 5-HT(4) and human 5-HT(4(b)) splice variant, which share 95% homology. The functional properties of guinea-pig 5-HT(4(b)) receptors were compared with native receptors in guinea-pig colon.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

Membrane radioligand binding and whole cell cAMP accumulation assays were used to determine the affinities, potencies and intrinsic activities (IA). Contraction of the guinea-pig distal colon longitudinal muscle myenteric plexus preparation (LMMP) was monitored to evaluate functional activity.

KEY RESULTS

pK(i) values for guinea-pig and human recombinant receptors, and guinea-pig striatum 5-HT(4) receptors, were in agreement, as were the potency and IA values for guinea-pig and human 5-HT(4) receptors expressed at a similar density ( approximately 0.2 pmol mg(-1) protein). Tegaserod was a potent (pEC(50)=8.4 and 8.7, respectively), full agonist at both guinea-pig and human 5-HT(4) receptors. In contrast, in the LMMP preparation, tegaserod was a potent, partial agonist (pEC(50)=8.2; IA=66%).

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

Close agreement between the pharmacological properties of guinea-pig and human 5-HT(4) receptors support the use of guinea-pig model systems for the identification of 5-HT(4) receptor therapeutics. However, the mechanisms underlying the different agonist properties of tegaserod in recombinant and isolated tissue preparations, and the extent to which these impact the clinical efficacy of tegaserod as a prokinetic agent, remain to be determined.

5-Hydroxytryptamine-4 receptor messenger ribonucleic acid levels and densities in gastrointestinal muscle layers from healthy dairy cows1

Serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine, 5-HT) is involved in gastrointestinal tract (GIT) motor functions through binding to specific receptors located in the GIT walls. The objectives of the current study were to compare mRNA levels and binding sites of 5-HT(4) receptors (5-HTR(4)) in smooth muscle layers from the fundus abomasi, pylorus, ileum, cecum, proximal loop of the ascending colon (PLAC), and external loop of the spiral colon (ELSC) of healthy dairy cows, and to verify whether mRNA and protein expression were correlated. Smooth muscle samples were prepared by scraping the mucosa and submucosa from full-thickness intestinal wall samples. The mRNA levels of 5-HTR(4) were measured by real-time PCR and expressed relative to those of the housekeeping gene glyceraldehyde phosphate dehydrogenase. Binding studies were performed using the 5-HTR(4) antagonist [(3)H]GR113808. The mRNA levels of 5-HTR(4) were affected (P < 0.05) by location along the GIT. The mRNA levels of 5-HTR(4) in the ELSC and the ileum were greater than in the PLAC (P = 0.05 and P = 0.07, respectively) but similar to those of all other locations. The competitive binding of [(3)H]GR113808 to suspended membranes from the fundus abomasi, pylorus, cecum, and ELSC was best fit by a 2-site receptor model, whereas it was best fit by a 1-site receptor model in the ileum and PLAC. The mRNA levels and numbers of 5-HTR(4) were not correlated (r = 0.14; P = 0.71). In conclusion, mRNA and binding sites for 5-HTR(4) are present in the smooth muscle layer of the entire GIT of dairy cows and may play a role with respect to motility. The effects of activation of this receptor subtype may be different among GIT locations due to differences in the amount of high- relative to low-affinity binding sites.

5‐HT4 receptor activation induces long‐lasting EPSP‐spike potentiation in CA1 pyramidal neurons

Recent studies implicated involvement of the 5-hydroxytryptamine4 (5-HT4) receptor in cognitive and emotional processes. The highest 5-HT4 receptor densities in the brain are found in the limbic system including the hippocampus. Here we used the selective 5-HT4 receptor full agonist, N-pentyl-N'-aminoguanidine carbazimidamide (SDZ-216454) to characterize effects of 5-HT4 receptor activation in whole-cell and field recordings in the area CA1 in hippocampal slices prepared from 3 to 4- and 6 to 9-week-old rats, respectively. Extracellular recordings showed that transient 5-HT4 receptor activation by 10-20 min application of SDZ-216454 induces field excitatory postsynaptic potential (fEPSP)-population spike potentiation (ESP(5-HT4)), which persisted for as long as we held the recordings (> 2 h). ESP(5-HT4) displayed characteristics different from EPSP-spike potentiation that accompanies long-term potentiation; it developed without an associated increase in synaptic transmission, was independent on afferent input, activity of postsynaptic neurons and N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor activation; and was expressed in the presence of GABA receptor antagonists. ESP(5-HT4) was also induced by transient application of the natural neurotransmitter, 5-HT. The increase in the evoked population spike (PS) induced by SDZ-216454 was not prevented by blockers of hyperpolarization-activated cation current (Ih), Cs+ and ZD-7288, but was mimicked and occluded by 150 microm Ba2+. Whole-cell voltage-clamp recordings from pyramidal neurons demonstrated that SDZ-216454 application increases membrane resistance with a concomitant decrease in a Ba2+-sensitive inwardly rectifying K+ current and the Ba2+-insensitive K+ current underlying slow afterhyperpolarization (I(sAHP)). We conclude that 5-HT4 receptor activation may cause a long-lasting excitability increase in CA1 pyramidal neurons by inhibition of a Ba2+-sensitive inwardly rectifying K+ current.