S32504, a novel naphtoxazine agonist at dopamine D3/D2 receptors: II. Actions in rodent, primate, and cellular models of antiparkinsonian activity in comparison to ropinirole

The antiparkinson drug ropinirole inhibits movement in a Parkinson's disease mouse model with residual dopamine neurons

The dopamine (DA) D2-like receptor (D2R) agonist ropinirole is often used for early and middle stage Parkinson's disease (PD). However, this D2-like agonism-based strategy has a complicating problem: D2-like agonism may activate D2 autoreceptors on the residual DA neurons in the PD brain, potentially inhibiting these residual DA neurons and motor function. We have examined this possibility by using systemic and local drug administration in transcription factor Pitx3 null mutant (Pitx3Null) mice that mimic the DA denervation in early and middle stage PD and in DA neuron tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) gene knockout (KO) mice that mimic the severe DA loss in late stage PD. We found that in Pitx3Null mice with residual DA neurons and normal mice with normal DA system, systemically injected ropinirole inhibited locomotion, whereas bilateral dorsal striatal-microinjected ropinirole stimulated movement in Pitx3Null mice; bilateral microinjection of ropinirole into the ventral tegmental area also inhibited movement in Pitx3Null mice; we further determined that ropinirole inhibited nigral DA neuron spike firing in WT mice. In contrast, both systemically and striatum-locally administered ropinirole increased movements in TH KO mice, but produced relatively more dyskinesia than L-dopa. Although requiring confirmation in non-human primates and PD patients, these data suggest that while activating D2-like receptors in striatal projection neurons and hence stimulating movements, D2-like agonists can inhibit residual DA neurons and cause akinesia when the residual DA neurons and motor functions are still substantial, and this motor-inhibitory effect disappears when almost all DA neurons are lost such as in late stage PD.

Striatal Nurr1 Facilitates the Dyskinetic State and Exacerbates Levodopa-Induced Dyskinesia in a Rat Model of Parkinson's Disease

The transcription factor Nurr1 has been identified to be ectopically induced in the striatum of rodents expressing l-DOPA-induced dyskinesia (LID). In the present study, we sought to characterize Nurr1 as a causative factor in LID expression. We used rAAV2/5 to overexpress Nurr1 or GFP in the parkinsonian striatum of LID-resistant Lewis or LID-prone Fischer-344 (F344) male rats. In a second cohort, rats received the Nurr1 agonist amodiaquine (AQ) together with l-DOPA or ropinirole. All rats received a chronic DA agonist and were evaluated for LID severity. Finally, we performed single-unit recordings and dendritic spine analyses on striatal medium spiny neurons (MSNs) in drug-naïve rAAV-injected male parkinsonian rats. rAAV-GFP injected LID-resistant hemi-parkinsonian Lewis rats displayed mild LID and no induction of striatal Nurr1 despite receiving a high dose of l-DOPA. However, Lewis rats overexpressing Nurr1 developed severe LID. Nurr1 agonism with AQ exacerbated LID in F344 rats. We additionally determined that in l-DOPA-naïve rats striatal rAAV-Nurr1 overexpression (1) increased cortically-evoked firing in a subpopulation of identified striatonigral MSNs, and (2) altered spine density and thin-spine morphology on striatal MSNs; both phenomena mimicking changes seen in dyskinetic rats. Finally, we provide postmortem evidence of Nurr1 expression in striatal neurons of l-DOPA-treated PD patients. Our data demonstrate that ectopic induction of striatal Nurr1 is capable of inducing LID behavior and associated neuropathology, even in resistant subjects. These data support a direct role of Nurr1 in aberrant neuronal plasticity and LID induction, providing a potential novel target for therapeutic development.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT The transcription factor Nurr1 is ectopically induced in striatal neurons of rats exhibiting levodopa-induced dyskinesia [LID; a side-effect to dopamine replacement strategies in Parkinson's disease (PD)]. Here we asked whether Nurr1 is causing LID. Indeed, rAAV-mediated expression of Nurr1 in striatal neurons was sufficient to overcome LID-resistance, and Nurr1 agonism exacerbated LID severity in dyskinetic rats. Moreover, we found that expression of Nurr1 in l-DOPA naïve hemi-parkinsonian rats resulted in the formation of morphologic and electrophysiological signatures of maladaptive neuronal plasticity; a phenomenon associated with LID. Finally, we determined that ectopic Nurr1 expression can be found in the putamen of l-DOPA-treated PD patients. These data suggest that striatal Nurr1 is an important mediator of the formation of LID.

Copper-catalyzed regio and diastereoselective three component C–N, C–C and C–O bond forming reaction: oxidative sp3 C–H functionalization

Naphthoxazine derivatives were synthesized in good yields in the one-pot reaction of tetrahydroisoquinolines, aromatic benzaldehydes and naphthols employing CuI as a catalyst.

A Synthetic Approach to Pyrazolopyranopyrimidinones and Pyrazolopyranooxazinones as Antimicrobial Agents

The hitherto unknown 6-amino-4-(2-chloro-5-nitrophenyl)-3-methyl-1,4-dihydropyrano[2,3-c] pyrazole-5-carbonitrile1awas synthesized. Both1aand its 2,4 dichlorophenyl derivative1bwere utilized as building blocks for the preparation of novel class of pyrazolopyrano-[oxazines2a–dand pyrimidinones3a–d]. Synthesis of these compounds was achieved by two alternative acylation steps followed by ammonolysis. The structures of the synthesized compounds were elucidated by spectral data and elemental analysis. Screening and evaluation of these products as antimicrobial agents showed that the derivatives1b,2s,3b, and3dpossess a potent activity.

Development of a Highly Potent D2/D3 Agonist and a Partial Agonist from Structure-Activity Relationship Study of N(6)-(2-(4-(1H-Indol-5-yl)piperazin-1-yl)ethyl)-N(6)-propyl-4,5,6,7-tetrahydrobenzo[d]thiazole-2,6-diamine Analogues: Implication in the Treatment of Parkinson's Disease

Our structure-activity relationship studies with N(6)-(2-(4-(1H-indol-5-yl)piperazin-1-yl)ethyl)-N(6)-propyl-4,5,6,7-tetrahydrobenzo[d]thiazole-2,6-diamine derivatives led to development of a lead compound (-)-21a which exhibited very high affinity (Ki, D2 = 16.4 nM, D3 = 1.15 nM) and full agonist activity (EC50 (GTPγS); D2 = 3.23 and D3 = 1.41 nM) at both D2 and D3 receptors. A partial agonist molecule (-)-34 (EC50 (GTPγS); D2 = 21.6 (Emax = 27%) and D3 = 10.9 nM) was also identified. In a Parkinson's disease (PD) animal model, (-)-21a was highly efficacious in reversing hypolocomotion in reserpinized rats with a long duration of action, indicating its potential as an anti-PD drug. Compound (-)-34 was also able to elevate locomotor activity in the above PD animal model significantly, implying its potential application in PD therapy. Furthermore, (-)-21a was shown to be neuroprotective in protecting neuronal PC12 from toxicity of 6-OHDA. This report, therefore, underpins the notion that a multifunctional drug like (-)-21a might have the potential not only to ameliorate motor dysfunction in PD patients but also to modify disease progression by protecting DA neurons from progressive degeneration.

Novel dimensions of D3 receptor function: Focus on heterodimerisation, transactivation and allosteric modulation

The brain׳s complexity derives not only from the way the intricate network of neurons is wired, but also by protein complexes that recognize and decode chemical information. G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) represent the most abundant family of proteins mediating neurotransmission in the brain, and their ability to form homo- and heteromers which amplifies the scope for synaptic communication and fine-tuning. Dopamine receptors are important drug targets and members of both the D1/D5 and D2/D3/D4 receptor families form homo- and heteromers. The present article focuses on D3 receptor homo- and heteromers, in particular, those formed in association with their D2 counterparts. We highlight the binding profiles and mechanisms of interaction with D3-D3 homomers and D3-D2 heteromers of: first, the PET ligand and potent agonist [(11)C]-(+)-PHNO; second, the novel, bitopic/allosteric dopamine D3 receptor antagonist, SB269,652; and third, diverse partial agonists like antipsychotic and aripiprazole. Molecular mechanisms of interplay between the two protomers of heteromeric D3-D2 complexes are likewise discussed: for example, "transactivation", whereby recruitment of one member of a heteromer harnesses signalling pathways is normally coupled to the other protomer. Finally, D1 receptor heteromers are also taken into consideration in deciphering the nature of interfaces required to stabilize dimeric assemblies and permit their interaction with G proteins. Improved understanding of D3 as well as D2 and D1 receptor complexes should yield important insights into their physiological roles and pathological significance, and permit the development of novel drug classes with potentially distinctive functional profiles and improved therapeutic windows.

Redox-neutral α-oxygenation of amines: reaction development and elucidation of the mechanism

Cyclic secondary amines and 2-hydroxybenzaldehydes or related ketones react to furnish benzo[e][1,3]oxazine structures in generally good yields. This overall redox-neutral amine α-C-H functionalization features a combined reductive N-alkylation/oxidative α-functionalization and is catalyzed by acetic acid. In contrast to previous reports, no external oxidants or metal catalysts are required. Reactions performed under modified conditions lead to an apparent reductive amination and the formation of o-hydroxybenzylamines in a process that involves the oxidation of a second equivalent of amine. A detailed computational study employing density functional theory compares different mechanistic pathways and is used to explain the observed experimental findings. Furthermore, these results also reveal the origin of the catalytic efficiency of acetic acid in these transformations.

Structure-activity relationship study of N⁶-(2-(4-(1H-Indol-5-yl)piperazin-1-yl)ethyl)-N⁶-propyl-4,5,6,7-tetrahydrobenzo[d]thiazole-2,6-diamine analogues: development of highly selective D3 dopamine receptor agonists along with a highly potent D2/D3 agonist and their pharmacological characterization

In our effort to develop multifunctional drugs against Parkinson's disease, a structure-activity-relationship study was carried out based on our hybrid molecular template targeting D2/D3 receptors. Competitive binding with [(3)H]spiroperidol was used to evaluate affinity (K(i)) of test compounds. Functional activity of selected compounds in stimulating [(35)S]GTPγS binding was assessed in CHO cells expressing either human D2 or D3 receptors. Our results demonstrated development of highly selective compounds for D3 receptor (for (-)-40K(i), D3 = 1.84 nM, D2/D3 = 583.2; for (-)-45K(i), D3 = 1.09 nM, D2/D3 = 827.5). Functional data identified (-)-40 (EC(50), D2 = 114 nM, D3 = 0.26 nM, D2/D3 = 438) as one of the highest D3 selective agonists known to date. In addition, high affinity, nonselective D3 agonist (-)-19 (EC(50), D2 = 2.96 nM and D3 = 1.26 nM) was also developed. Lead compounds with antioxidant activity were evaluated using an in vivo PD animal model.

Animal models of Parkinson's disease: a source of novel treatments and clues to the cause of the disease

Animal models of Parkinson's disease (PD) have proved highly effective in the discovery of novel treatments for motor symptoms of PD and in the search for clues to the underlying cause of the illness. Models based on specific pathogenic mechanisms may subsequently lead to the development of neuroprotective agents for PD that stop or slow disease progression. The array of available rodent models is large and ranges from acute pharmacological models, such as the reserpine- or haloperidol-treated rats that display one or more parkinsonian signs, to models exhibiting destruction of the dopaminergic nigro-striatal pathway, such as the classical 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) rat and 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP) mouse models. All of these have provided test beds in which new molecules for treating the motor symptoms of PD can be assessed. In addition, the emergence of abnormal involuntary movements (AIMs) with repeated treatment of 6-OHDA-lesioned rats with L-DOPA has allowed for examination of the mechanisms responsible for treatment-related dyskinesia in PD, and the detection of molecules able to prevent or reverse their appearance. Other toxin-based models of nigro-striatal tract degeneration include the systemic administration of the pesticides rotenone and paraquat, but whilst providing clues to disease pathogenesis, these are not so commonly used for drug development. The MPTP-treated primate model of PD, which closely mimics the clinical features of PD and in which all currently used anti-parkinsonian medications have been shown to be effective, is undoubtedly the most clinically-relevant of all available models. The MPTP-treated primate develops clear dyskinesia when repeatedly exposed to L-DOPA, and these parkinsonian animals have shown responses to novel dopaminergic agents that are highly predictive of their effect in man. Whether non-dopaminergic drugs show the same degree of predictability of response is a matter of debate. As our understanding of the pathogenesis of PD has improved, so new rodent models produced by agents mimicking these mechanisms, including proteasome inhibitors such as PSI, lactacystin and epoximycin or inflammogens like lipopolysaccharide (LPS) have been developed. A further generation of models aimed at mimicking the genetic causes of PD has also sprung up. Whilst these newer models have provided further clues to the disease pathology, they have so far been less commonly used for drug development. There is little doubt that the availability of experimental animal models of PD has dramatically altered dopaminergic drug treatment of the illness and the prevention and reversal of drug-related side effects that emerge with disease progression and chronic medication. However, so far, we have made little progress in moving into other pharmacological areas for the treatment of PD, and we have not developed models that reflect the progressive nature of the illness and its complexity in terms of the extent of pathology and biochemical change. Only when this occurs are we likely to make progress in developing agents to stop or slow the disease progression. The overarching question that draws all of these models together in the quest for better drug treatments for PD is how well do they recapitulate the human condition and how predictive are they of successful translation of drugs into the clinic? This article aims to clarify the current position and highlight the strengths and weaknesses of available models.

The effect of prolyl oligopeptidase inhibition on extracellular acetylcholine and dopamine levels in the rat striatum

Prolyl oligopeptidase (PREP, EC 3.4.21.26) inhibitors have potential as cognition enhancers, but the mechanism of action behind the cognitive effects remains unclear. Since acetylcholine (ACh) and dopamine (DA) are known to be associated with the regulation of cognitive processes, we investigated the effects of two PREP inhibitors on the extracellular levels of ACh and DA in the rat striatum using in vivo microdialysis. KYP-2047 and JTP-4819 were administered either as a single systemic dose (50 μmol/kg∼17 mg/kg i.p.) or directly into the striatum by retrodialysis via the microdialysis probe (12.5, 37.5 or 125 μM at 1.5 μl/min for 60 min). PREP inhibitors had no significant effect on striatal DA levels after systemic administration. JTP-4819 significantly decreased ACh levels both after systemic (by ∼25%) and intrastriatal (by ∼30-50%) administration. KYP-2047 decreased ACh levels only after intrastriatal administration by retrodialysis (by ∼40-50%) when higher drug levels were reached, indicating that higher brain drug levels are needed to modulate ACh levels than to inhibit PREP. This result does not support the earlier hypothesis that the positive cognitive effects of PREP inhibitors in rodents would be mediated through the cholinergic system. In vitro specificity studies did not reveal any obvious off-targets that could explain the observed effect of KYP-2047 and JTP-4819 on ACh levels, instead confirming the concept that these compounds have a high selectivity towards PREP.

8-Bromo-1,3-diphenyl-2,3-dihydro-1H-naphtho-[1,2-e][1,3]oxazine

The title compound, C(24)H(18)BrNO, consists of an envelope-configured oxazine ring with a fused 8-bromo-1,3-diphenyl group and two bonded phenyl rings. The dihedral angles between the mean planes of the 8-bromo-1,3-diphenyl and the phenyl rings are 54.5 (6) and 87.4 (8)°, respectively. The oxazine is essentially coplanar with the 8-bromo-1,3-diphenyl [dihedral angle = 9.4 (1)°]. Weak C-H⋯π inter-actions contribute to the crystal packing.

From the cell to the clinic: a comparative review of the partial D₂/D₃receptor agonist and α2-adrenoceptor antagonist, piribedil, in the treatment of Parkinson's disease

Though L-3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine (L-DOPA) is universally employed for alleviation of motor dysfunction in Parkinson's disease (PD), it is poorly-effective against co-morbid symptoms like cognitive impairment and depression. Further, it elicits dyskinesia, its pharmacokinetics are highly variable, and efficacy wanes upon long-term administration. Accordingly, "dopaminergic agonists" are increasingly employed both as adjuncts to L-DOPA and as monotherapy. While all recognize dopamine D(2) receptors, they display contrasting patterns of interaction with other classes of monoaminergic receptor. For example, pramipexole and ropinirole are high efficacy agonists at D(2) and D(3) receptors, while pergolide recognizes D(1), D(2) and D(3) receptors and a broad suite of serotonergic receptors. Interestingly, several antiparkinson drugs display modest efficacy at D(2) receptors. Of these, piribedil displays the unique cellular signature of: 1), signal-specific partial agonist actions at dopamine D(2)and D(3) receptors; 2), antagonist properties at α(2)-adrenoceptors and 3), minimal interaction with serotonergic receptors. Dopamine-deprived striatal D(2) receptors are supersensitive in PD, so partial agonism is sufficient for relief of motor dysfunction while limiting undesirable effects due to "over-dosage" of "normosensitive" D(2) receptors elsewhere. Further, α(2)-adrenoceptor antagonism reinforces adrenergic, dopaminergic and cholinergic transmission to favourably influence motor function, cognition, mood and the integrity of dopaminergic neurones. In reviewing the above issues, the present paper focuses on the distinctive cellular, preclinical and therapeutic profile of piribedil, comparisons to pramipexole, ropinirole and pergolide, and the core triad of symptoms that characterises PD-motor dysfunction, depressed mood and cognitive impairment. The article concludes by highlighting perspectives for clarifying the mechanisms of action of piribedil and other antiparkinson agents, and for optimizing their clinical exploitation.

Discovery of 4-(4-(2-((5-Hydroxy-1,2,3,4-tetrahydronaphthalen-2-yl)(propyl)amino)ethyl)piperazin-1-yl)quinolin-8-ol and its analogues as highly potent dopamine D2/D3 agonists and as iron chelator: in vivo activity indicates potential application in symptomatic and neuroprotective therapy for Parkinson's disease

The role of iron in the pathogenesis of Parkinson's disease (PD) has been implicated strongly because of generation of oxidative stress leading to dopamine cell death. In our overall goal to develop bifunctional/multifunctional drugs, we designed dopamine D2/D3 agonist molecules with a capacity to bind to iron. Binding assays were carried out with HEK-293 cells expressing either D2 or D3 receptor with tritiated spiperone to evaluate inhibition constants (K(i)). Functional activity of selected compounds was carried out with GTPgammaS binding assay. SAR results identified compounds (+)-19a and (-)-19b as two potent agonists for both D2 and D3 receptors (EC(50) (GTPgammaS); D2 = 4.51 and 1.69 nM and D3 = 1.58 and 0.74 nM for (-)-19b and (+)-19a, respectively). In vitro complexation studies with 19b demonstrated efficient chelation with iron. Furthermore, the deoxyribose assay with 19b demonstrated potent antioxidant activity. In PD animal model study, (-)-19b exhibited potent in vivo activity in reversing locomotor activity in reserpinized rats and also in producing potent rotational activity in 6-OHDA lesioned rats. This reports initial development of unique lead molecules that might find potential use in symptomatic and neuroprotective treatment of PD.

Development of (S)-N6-(2-(4-(isoquinolin-1-yl)piperazin-1-yl)ethyl)-N6-propyl-4,5,6,7-tetrahydrobenzo[d]-thiazole-2,6-diamine and its analogue as a D3 receptor preferring agonist: potent in vivo activity in Parkinson's disease animal models

Here we report structure-activity relationship study of a novel hybrid series of compounds where structural alteration of aromatic hydrophobic moieties connected to the piperazine ring and bioisosteric replacement of the aromatic tetralin moieties were carried out. Binding assays were carried out with HEK-293 cells expressing either D2 or D3 receptors with tritiated spiperone to evaluate inhibition constants (K(i)). Functional activity of selected compounds in stimulating GTPgammaS binding was assessed with CHO cells expressing human D2 receptors and AtT-20 cells expressing human D3 receptors. SAR results identified compound (-)-24c (D-301) as one of the lead molecules with preferential agonist activity for D3 receptor (EC(50) (GTP gamma S); D3 = 0.52 nM; D2/D3 (EC(50)): 223). Compounds (-)-24b and (-)-24c exhibited potent radical scavenging activity. The two lead compounds, (-)-24b and (-)-24c, exhibited high in vivo activity in two Parkinson's disease (PD) animal models, reserpinized rat model and 6-OHDA induced unilaterally lesioned rat model. Future studies will explore potential use of these compounds in the neuroprotective therapy for PD.

Third generation antipsychotic drugs: partial agonism or receptor functional selectivity?

Functional selectivity is the term that describes drugs that cause markedly different signaling through a single receptor (e.g., full agonist at one pathway and antagonist at a second). It has been widely recognized recently that this phenomenon impacts the understanding of mechanism of action of some drugs, and has relevance to drug discovery. One of the clinical areas where this mechanism has particular importance is in the treatment of schizophrenia. Antipsychotic drugs have been grouped according to both pattern of clinical action and mechanism of action. The original antipsychotic drugs such as chlorpromazine and haloperidol have been called typical or first generation. They cause both antipsychotic actions and many side effects (extrapyramidal and endocrine) that are ascribed to their high affinity dopamine D(2) receptor antagonism. Drugs such as clozapine, olanzapine, risperidone and others were then developed that avoided the neurological side effects (atypical or second generation antipsychotics). These compounds are divided mechanistically into those that are high affinity D(2) and 5-HT(2A) antagonists, and those that also bind with modest affinity to D(2), 5-HT(2A), and many other neuroreceptors. There is one approved third generation drug, aripiprazole, whose actions have been ascribed alternately to either D(2) partial agonism or D(2) functional selectivity. Although partial agonism has been the more widely accepted mechanism, the available data are inconsistent with this mechanism. Conversely, the D(2) functional selectivity hypothesis can accommodate all current data for aripiprazole, and also impacts on discovery compounds that are not pure D(2) antagonists.

The 3R principle and the use of non-human primates in the study of neurodegenerative diseases: the case of Parkinson's disease

The aim of this paper is to offer an ethical perspective on the use of non-human primates in neurobiological studies, using the Parkinson's disease (PD) as an important case study. We refer, as theoretical framework, to the 3R principle, originally proposed by Russell and Burch [Russell, W.M.S., Burch, R.L., 1959. The Principles of Humane Experimental Technique. Universities Federation for Animal Welfare Wheathampstead, England (reprinted in 1992)]. Then, the use of non-human primates in the study of PD will be discussed in relation to the concepts of Replacement, Reduction, and Refinement. Replacement and Reduction result to be the more problematic concept to be applied, whereas Refinement offers relatively more opportunities of improvement. However, although in some cases the 3R principle shows its applicative limits, its value, as conceptual and inspirational tool remains extremely valuable. It suggests to the researchers a series of questions, both theoretical and methodological, which can have the results of improving the quality of life on the experimental models, the quality of the scientific data, and the public perception from the non-scientist community.

Differential modulation of Akt/glycogen synthase kinase-3beta pathway regulates apoptotic and cytoprotective signaling responses

We have previously reported that specific dopamine agonists mediate protection against apoptosis induced by oxidative stress by activating the D2 receptor-coupled phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI-3K)/Akt pathway. In the present study we examined the downstream effectors of PI-3K/Akt signaling and their role in cell death after oxidative stress and protection provided by ropinirole, a D2 receptor agonist in PC12 cells and primary cultures of dopamine neurons. Ropinirole treatment was associated with rapid translocation and phosphorylation of the PI-3K substrate Akt and phosphorylation of Akt substrates. One of these Akt downstream substrates was identified as the pro-apoptotic factor glycogen synthase kinase-3beta (GSK-3beta). Ropinirole-induced protection was associated with phosphorylation of GSK-3beta (inactivation). In contrast, inhibition of PI-3K blocked the phosphorylation of Akt and GSK-3beta (activation) and prevented the protection mediated by ropinirole. Suppression of Akt with specific short hairpin RNA in normal PC12 cells caused cell death, which was associated with reduced phosphorylation of GSK-3beta and reduced levels of beta-catenin, a transcriptional activator that is regulated by GSK-3beta. Knock-out of GSK-3beta expression with a short hairpin RNA alone was itself sufficient to cause cell death. We further demonstrated that oxidative stress induced by hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) dephosphorylates Akt and GSK-3beta, increases GSK-3beta activity, and promotes an interaction with beta-catenin and its degradation. Inhibition of GSK-3beta activity by inhibitor VIII protects cells from H2O2 similar to ropinirole. These results indicate that GSK-3beta downstream of Akt plays a critical role in cell death and survival in these models.

Neurobehavioral protection by single dose l-deprenyl against MPTP-induced parkinsonism in common marmosets

OBJECTIVE

Establishment of preclinical method evaluating behavioral protective actions of drugs for Parkinson's disease was attempted using l-deprenyl (DEP) as a reference drug in 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1, 2, 3, 6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP)-treated common marmosets.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Fifteen marmosets received MPTP at 2 mg/kg, subcutaneously (s.c.) per day for three consecutive days. To these marmosets, intragastric (i.g.) administration of DEP at 10 mg/kg was pretreated 2 h before each MPTP administration in DEP3 group and pretreated only in the first MPTP administration day in DEP1 group. As a control, distilled water (DW) was pretreated before each MPTP administration (n = 5 for each of three groups).

RESULTS

In DW group, decreased daily activity counts and increased dysfunction scores were persistently observed for 3 weeks after MPTP. In DEP groups, the similar changes of both levels to those in DW group were temporally observed after MPTP for several days and then the values recovered to the pre-MPTP levels. The results of autoradiography performed after above behavioral observations indicated that markedly lower bindings of [(11)C]PE2I (ligand for dopamine transporters) were observed at the striatum of DW group marmoset as compared with the striatum of additionally prepared MPTP-free marmoset (n = 5). The bindings in DEP groups were almost the same as in the MPTP-free marmoset brains.

CONCLUSION

The present preclinical methods using continuous recording of activity of marmosets in their living cages and autoradiography using dopamine transporter ligand might be sensitive for detecting protective actions of drugs for Parkinson's disease.

Discriminative stimulus properties of S32504, a novel D3/D2 receptor agonist and antiparkinson agent, in rats: attenuation by the antipsychotics, aripiprazole, bifeprunox, N-desmethylclozapine, and by selective antagonists at dopamine D2 but not D3 receptors

RATIONALE

Drug-discrimination studies have proven instructive in the characterization of psychotropic agents, a procedure applied herein to the novel antiparkinson agent, S32504. This highly selective agonist at dopamine D(3) and (less potently) D(2) receptors displays potent antiparkinson, neuroprotective and antidepressant properties (Millan et al., J Pharmacol Exp Ther 309:936-950, 2004a; Millan et al., J Pharmacol Exp Ther 309:903-920, 2004b; Millan et al., J Pharmacol Exp Ther 309:921-935, 2004c).

OBJECTIVES

To generate a discriminative stimulus (DS) with S32504 and undertake substitution/antagonism studies with diverse antiparkinson and antipsychotic agents.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Using a two-lever, fixed-ratio 10 schedule, rats were trained to recognize S32504 (0.04 mg/kg, s.c.) from saline.

RESULTS

S32504 displayed dose-dependent and stereospecific substitution in comparison to its less active racemic form, (+/-) S31411, and to its inactive (-) distomer, S32601. Apomorphine, and the selective D(3)/D(2) receptor agonists, ropinirole, PD128,907, 7-OH-DPAT and CGS15855A, fully (=80%) substituted for S32504, whereas D(4) and D(1)/D(5) receptor agonists were ineffective. The selective D(3) vs D(2) receptor partial agonist, BP897, did not substitute for S32504 and the selective D(3) receptor antagonists, S33084, SB277,011, GR218,231, PNU99194A and S14297, did not block its DS properties. By contrast, S32504 lever selection was blocked by the preferential D(2) vs D(3) receptor antagonists, L741,626 and S23199, and by the D(2)/D(3) antagonists, raclopride and haloperidol. The D(2)/D(3) receptor partial agonists and antipsychotics, aripiprazole, bifeprunox, N-desmethylclozapine and preclamol did not substitute for S32504: indeed, they dose-dependently attenuated its DS properties.

CONCLUSION

The antiparkinson agent, S32504, displays DS properties principally mediated by high-efficacy activation of D(2) receptors Antipsychotics known to act as partial agonists at D(2)/D(3) receptors attenuate DS properties of S32504, actions reflecting their low efficacy at these sites.

Antiparkinsonian effects of the novel D3/D2 dopamine receptor agonist, S32504, in MPTP-lesioned marmosets: Mediation by D2, not D3, dopamine receptors

L-dopa remains the most common treatment for Parkinson's disease. However, there is considerable interest in D3/D2 receptor agonists such as the novel agent S32504, since they exert antiparkinsonian properties in the absence of dyskinesia. An important question concerns the roles of D2 vs. D3 receptors, an issue we addressed with the 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP)-lesioned nonhuman primate model of Parkinson's disease. In L-dopa-primed animals, S32504 (0.16-2.5 mg/kg p.o.) dose-dependently enhanced locomotor activity. This action was abolished by the D2 antagonist, L741,626 (2.5 mg/kg), but potentiated by the D3 antagonist, S33084 (0.63 mg/kg). Both antagonists were inactive alone. In drug-naive animals, a maximally effective dose of S32504 (2.5 mg/kg p.o.) displayed pronounced antiparkinsonian properties from the third day of administration, and its actions were expressed rapidly and durably. Thus, on day 33, antiparkinsonian properties of S32504 were apparent within 5 minutes and present for > 4 hours. Moreover, they were associated with neither wearing off nor significant dyskinesia. In conclusion, the novel D3/D2 agonist S32504 may offer advantages over L-dopa in the treatment of newly diagnosed parkinsonian patients. Its actions are expressed primarily by activation of D2, not D3, receptors.

Antidepressant-like properties of the anti-Parkinson agent, piribedil, in rodents: mediation by dopamine D2 receptors

The dopamine D2/D3 receptor agonist and alpha2 adrenergic receptor antagonist, piribedil, is used clinically as monotherapy and as an adjunct to L-3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine in the treatment of Parkinson's disease. As it appears to improve mood, we examined its actions in rodent models of antidepressant properties, in comparison with the prototypical anti-Parkinson agent, apomorphine, the D2/D3 receptor agonist, quinpirole, and the antidepressants, imipramine and fluvoxamine. In the mouse forced-swim test, acute administration of imipramine, fluvoxamine, apomorphine or quinpirole decreased immobility time, actions dose dependently mimicked by piribedil (2.5-10.0 mg/kg, subcutaneously). In rats, acute and subchronic administration of piribedil similarly reduced immobility (0.63-10.0 mg/kg, subcutaneously) and apomorphine, quinpirole and imipramine were also active in this test, whereas fluvoxamine was inactive. Both in mice and in rats, the D2/D3 receptor antagonist, raclopride, and the D2 receptor antagonist, L741,626, dose dependently blocked the antidepressant properties of piribedil, whereas the selective D3 receptor antagonists, S33084 and SB277,011, were ineffective. In a chronic mild stress model in rats, piribedil (2.5-40.0 mg/kg, subcutaneously) restored sucrose intake in stressed animals exerting its actions more rapidly (by week 1) than imipramine. Imipramine, fluvoxamine, apomorphine, quinpirole and piribedil dose dependently (0.63-10.0 mg/kg, subcutaneously) suppressed aggressive and marble-burying behaviour in mice. In the latter procedure, raclopride and L741,626, but not S33084, attenuated the actions of piribedil. Over a dose range (0.63-10.0 mg/kg, subcutaneously) equivalent to those active in models of antidepressant activity, piribedil did not stimulate locomotor behaviour. In conclusion, principally via recruitment of D2 receptors, piribedil exerts robust and specific antidepressant-like actions in diverse rodent models.

Aplindore (DAB-452), a high affinity selective dopamine D2 receptor partial agonist

The pharmacology of aplindore (DAB-452) was characterized in CHO-K1 cells stably transfected with the human dopamine D(2) receptor short isoform (CHO-D(2s)) and in a behavioral model for post-synaptic agonism in rats. In [(3)H]-spiperone competition binding studies, aplindore showed high affinity for dopamine D(2) and D(3) receptors and low affinity for the dopamine D(4), serotonin (5-HT)(1A), 5-HT(2) receptors and the alpha1-adrenoceptor. The high potency partial agonist activity of aplindore was demonstrated in [(35)S]guanosine 5'-O-(3-thiotriphosphate) ([(35)S]GTPgammaS) binding, extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK)-phosphorylation and intracellular calcium flux assay using fluorometric plate reader ([Ca(2+)](i)-FLIPR) format. The [Ca(2+)](i)-FLIPR assay was conducted with CHO-D(2S) receptor cells also stably expressing chimeric G(alphaq/o)-proteins. In all assay modalities, the potencies and intrinsic activities of aplindore were lower than dopamine and higher than aripiprazole. In contrast to the [(35)S]GTPgammaS binding and ERK-phosphorylation assays, the [Ca(2+)](i)-FLIPR assay was able to detect the low partial agonist activity of SDZ 208-912. In unilaterally 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) lesioned rats, aplindore induced contralateral turning, which was blocked by the dopamine D(2) receptor antagonist raclopride. The dopamine D(2) receptor selective partial agonist profile of aplindore suggests that it should be effective for the treatment of dopaminergic-based disorders, such as schizophrenia and Parkinson's disease.

The structural evolution of dopamine D3 receptor ligands: structure-activity relationships and selected neuropharmacological aspects

"Evolution consists largely of molecular tinkering."-Following the famous concept of the molecular geneticist and medicine Nobel laureate François Jacob, in this review we describe the structural evolution of dopamine D3 receptor ligands from the natural agonist dopamine (DA) to highly potent and subtype selective new agents by bioisosteric tinkering with well-established and privileged or novel and fancy chemical functionalities and scaffolds. Some of the more than 200 ligands presented herein have already achieved therapeutic or scientific value up to now, some will most likely achieve it in the future. Hence, great importance is not only attached to the relationship between structure and activity of the ligands, but also to their utility as pharmacological tools in animal models or as therapeutics in patients with neurological diseases or other disorders.

Multi-target strategies for the improved treatment of depressive states: Conceptual foundations and neuronal substrates, drug discovery and therapeutic application

Major depression is a debilitating and recurrent disorder with a substantial lifetime risk and a high social cost. Depressed patients generally display co-morbid symptoms, and depression frequently accompanies other serious disorders. Currently available drugs display limited efficacy and a pronounced delay to onset of action, and all provoke distressing side effects. Cloning of the human genome has fuelled expectations that symptomatic treatment may soon become more rapid and effective, and that depressive states may ultimately be "prevented" or "cured". In pursuing these objectives, in particular for genome-derived, non-monoaminergic targets, "specificity" of drug actions is often emphasized. That is, priority is afforded to agents that interact exclusively with a single site hypothesized as critically involved in the pathogenesis and/or control of depression. Certain highly selective drugs may prove effective, and they remain indispensable in the experimental (and clinical) evaluation of the significance of novel mechanisms. However, by analogy to other multifactorial disorders, "multi-target" agents may be better adapted to the improved treatment of depressive states. Support for this contention is garnered from a broad palette of observations, ranging from mechanisms of action of adjunctive drug combinations and electroconvulsive therapy to "network theory" analysis of the etiology and management of depressive states. The review also outlines opportunities to be exploited, and challenges to be addressed, in the discovery and characterization of drugs recognizing multiple targets. Finally, a diversity of multi-target strategies is proposed for the more efficacious and rapid control of core and co-morbid symptoms of depression, together with improved tolerance relative to currently available agents.

A role for endocannabinoids in the generation of parkinsonism and levodopa-induced dyskinesia in MPTP-lesioned non-human primate models of Parkinson's disease

Endocannabinoids and cannabinoid CB1 receptors play a role in the control of movement by modulating GABA, glutamate, and other neurotransmitters throughout the basal ganglia. Roles for abnormalities in endocannabinoid signaling in Parkinson's disease (PD) and the major side effect of current treatments, levodopa-induced dyskinesia (LID), have been suggested by rodent studies. Here we show that signaling by endocannabinoids contributes to the pathophysiology of parkinsonism and LID in MPTP-lesioned, non-human primate models of Parkinson's disease. In MPTP-lesioned marmosets previously treated with levodopa to establish LID, attenuation of CB1 signaling by systemic administration of rimonabant (1 and 3 mg/kg) had anti-parkinsonian actions, equivalent to a 71% increase in motor activity at 3 mg/kg. Rimonabant did not elicit dyskinesia. Co-administration of levodopa (8 mg/kg) and rimonabant (1 and 3 mg/kg) resulted in significantly less dyskinesia than levodopa alone, without significantly affecting the anti-parkinsonian action of levodopa. These data suggest that enhanced endocannabinoid signaling may be involved in the pathophysiology of both parkinsonism and LID. To define potential mechanisms by which such a role might be mediated, we determined the levels of the endocannabinoids anandamide and 2-arachidonyl glycerol (2-AG) throughout the basal ganglia in normal and three groups of MPTP-lesioned cynomolgus monkeys (untreated; acutely treated with L-DOPA, non-dyskinetic; long-term treated, with levodopa-induced dyskinesia). In the untreated, MPTP-lesioned primate, parkinsonism was associated with increases in both 2-AG (+88%) and anandamide (+49%) in the striatum, and of 2-AG (+97%) in the substantia nigra, changes that are consistent with the previously suggested role for endocannabinoids in mechanisms attempting to compensate for loss of dopamine in untreated parkinsonism. Increased levels of anandamide (+34%) in the external globus pallidus of MPTP-lesioned animals were normalized by levodopa treatment and may contribute to the generation of parkinsonian symptoms. However, no clear alteration in endocannabinoid levels could be correlated with the expression of LID. These data highlight the potential roles played by endocannabinoids and CB1 in PD and LID and suggest the need for further research to pursue the multiple therapeutic opportunities for manipulating this system in movement disorders.

Involvement of dopamine D2/D3 receptors and BDNF in the neuroprotective effects of S32504 and pramipexole against 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium in terminally differentiated SH-SY5Y cells

Anti-parkinsonian agents possessing both D(2) and D(3) receptor agonist properties are neuroprotective against 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium (MPP(+)) toxicity in a variety of in vitro models. The mechanisms underlying protection by these D(2)/D(3) receptor agonists remain poorly defined. To test if the D(3) receptor preferring agonists S32504 and pramipexole act through D(2) or D(3) receptors and via brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF)-dependent pathways, we utilized a terminally differentiated neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cell line exhibiting a dopaminergic phenotype. The cytotoxic effects of MPP(+) (LD(50) of 100 microM) were stereospecifically antagonized by S32504 (EC(50) = 2.0 microM) and, less potently, by pramipexole (EC(50) = 64.3 microM), but not by their inactive stereoisomers, R(+) pramipexole and S32601, respectively. Neuroprotective effects afforded by EC(50) doses of S32504 and pramipexole were antagonized by the selective D(3) antagonists S33084, U99194A, and SB269652, and by the D(2)/D(3) antagonist raclopride. However, the preferential D(2) receptor antagonist LY741626 was ineffective as was the D1 antagonist SCH23390. BDNF (1 nM) potently protected against MPP(+)-induced neurotoxicity. Antibody directed against BDNF concentration-dependently blocked both the neuroprotective effects of BDNF and those of pramipexole and S32504 against MPP(+). The protection afforded by BDNF was blocked by the P3K-AKT pathway inhibitor LY249002 and less so by the MEK/MAPKK pathway inhibitor PD98059. LY249002, but not PD98059, blocked the neuroprotective effects of pramipexole and S32504 against MPP(+) toxicity. In conclusion, S32504 and, less potently, pramipexole show robust, stereospecific, and long-lasting neuroprotective effects against MPP(+) toxicity that involve D(3) receptors. Their actions also reflect downstream recruitment of BDNF and via a PK3-AKT pathway.

S32504, a novel naphtoxazine agonist at dopamine D3/D2 receptors: I. Cellular, electrophysiological, and neurochemical profile in comparison with ropinirole

S32504 [(+)-trans-3,4,4a,5,6,10b-hexahydro-9-carbamoyl-4-propyl-2H-naphth[1,2-b]-1,4-oxazine] displayed marked affinity for cloned, human (h)D(3) receptors (pK(i), 8.1) at which, in total G-protein ([(35)S]GTPgammaS binding, guanosine-5'-O-(3-[(35)S]thio)-triphosphate), Galpha(i3) (antibody capture/scintillation proximity), and mitogen-activated protein kinase (immunoblot) activation procedures, it behaved as an agonist: pEC(50) values, 8.7, 8.6, and 8.5, respectively. These actions were blocked by haloperidol and the selective D(3) receptor antagonist S33084 [(3aR,9bS)-N-[4-(8-cyano-1,3a,4,9b-tetrahydro-3H-benzopyrano[3,4-c]pyrrole-2-yl)-butyl]-(4-phenyl) benzamide)]. S32504 showed lower potency at hD(2S) and hD(2L) receptors in [(35)S]GTPgammaS binding (pEC(50) values, 6.4 and 6.7) and antibody capture/scintillation proximity (hD(2L), pEC(50), 6.6) procedures. However, reflecting signal amplification, it potently stimulated hD(2L) receptor-coupled mitogen-activated protein kinase (pEC(50), 8.6). These actions were blocked by haloperidol and the selective D(2) receptor antagonist L741,626 [4-(4-chlorophenyl)-1-(1H-indol-3-ylmethyl)piperidin-4-ol]. The affinity of S32504 for hD(4) receptors was low (5.3) and negligible for hD(1) and hD(5) receptors (pK(i), <5.0). S32504 showed weak agonist properties at serotonin(1A) ([(35)S]GTPgammaS binding, pEC(50), 5.0) and serotonin(2A) (G(q), pEC(50), 5.2) receptors and low affinity for other (>50) sites. In anesthetized rats, S32504 (0.0025-0.01 mg/kg, i.v.) suppressed electrical activity of ventrotegmental dopaminergic neurons. Correspondingly, S32504 (0.0025-0.63 mg/kg, s.c.) potently reduced dialysis levels (and synthesis) of dopamine in striatum, nucleus accumbens, and frontal cortex of freely moving rats, actions blocked by haloperidol and L741,626 but not by S33084. In contrast, S32504 only weakly inhibited serotonergic transmission and failed to affect noradrenergic transmission. Actions of S32504 were expressed stereospecifically versus its less active enantiomer S32601 [(-)-trans-3,4,4a,5,6,10b-hexahydro-9-carbomoyl-4-propyl-2H-naphth[1,2-b]-1,4-oxazine]. Although the D(3)/D(2) agonist and antiparkinsonian agent ropinirole mimicked the profile of S32504, it was less potent. In conclusion, S32504 is a potent and selective agonist at dopamine D(3) and D(2) receptors.

S32504, a Novel Naphtoxazine Agonist at Dopamine D3/D2 Receptors: III. Actions in Models of Potential Antidepressive and Anxiolytic Activity in Comparison with Ropinirole

In forced-swim tests in mice and rats, the novel D(3)/D(2) receptor agonist S32504 [(+)-trans-3,4,4a,5,6,10b-hexahydro-9-carbamoyl-4-propyl-2H-naphth[1,2-b]-1,4-oxazine] dose-dependently (0.04-2.5 mg/kg) and stereospecifically suppressed immobility compared with its enantiomer S32601 [(-)-trans-3,4,4a,5,6,10b-hexahydro-9-carbamoyl-4-propyl-2H-naphth-[1,2-b]-1,4-oxazine]. Ropinirole was less potent than S32504 in this procedure, and it was likewise less potent than S32504 (0.04-2.5 mg/kg) in attenuating motor-suppressant properties of the alpha(2)-adrenoceptor agonist S18616 [(S)-spiro[(1-oxa-2-amino-3-azacyclopent-2-ene)-4,2'-(1',2',3',4'-tetrahydronaphthalene)]]. In a learned helplessness paradigm, S32504 (0.08-2.5 mg/kg) suppressed escape failures. Furthermore, in a chronic mild stress model of anhedonia, S32504 (0.16-2.5 mg/kg) rapidly restored the suppression of sucrose consumption. S32504 inhibited marble-burying behavior in mice (0.04-0.16 mg/kg) and aggressive behavior in isolated mice (0.04-2.5 mg/kg): only higher doses of ropinirole mimicked these actions of S32504. In tests of anxiolytic activity, S32504 was more potent (0.0025-0.16 mg/kg) than ropinirole in suppressing fear-induced ultrasonic vocalizations, and S32601 was inactive. Furthermore, in contrast to ropinirole, S32504 modestly enhanced punished responses in a Vogel conflict procedure and increased open-arm entries in a plus-maze. At doses active in the above-described procedures, S32504 did not elicit hyperlocomotion. In the forced-swim, marble-burying, and ultrasonic vocalization models, actions of S32504 were blocked by the D(2)/D(3) antagonists haloperidol and raclopride and by the D(2) antagonist L741,626 [4-(4-chlorophenyl)-1-(1H-indol-3-ylmethyl)piperidin-4-ol], but not by the D(3) receptor antagonist S33084 [(3aR,9bS)-N-[4-(8-cyano-1,3a,4,9b-tetrahydro-3H-benzopyrano[3,4-c]pyrrole-2-yl)-butyl]-(4-phenyl)benzamide. Finally, chronic administration of S32504 did not, in contrast to venlafaxine, modify corticolimbic levels of serotonin(2A) receptors or brain-derived neurotrophic factor. In conclusion, S32504 displays a broad and distinctive profile of activity in models of potential antidepressive and anxiolytic properties. Its actions are more pronounced than those of ropinirole and principally involve engagement of D(2) receptors.