Somatostatin receptor subtype expression and function in human vascular tissue

Somatostatin Receptor Type 2 as a Potential Marker of Local Myocardial Inflammation in Myocardial Infarction: Morphologic Data on Distribution in Infarcted and Normal Human Myocardium

Nuclear imaging modalities can detect somatostatin receptor type 2 (SSTR2) in vivo as a potential marker of local post-MI inflammation. SSTR2+ macrophages are thought to be the main substrate for SSTR-targeted radioimaging. However, the distribution of SSTR2+ cells in the MI patients' myocardium is unknown. Using immunohistochemistry, we investigated the distribution of SSTR2+ cells in the myocardium of patients who died during the MI inflammatory phase (n = 7) compared to the control group of individuals with fatal trauma (n = 3). Inflammatory cellular landscapes evolve in a wave front-like pattern, so we divided the myocardium into histological zones: the infarct core (IC), the border zone (BZ), the remote zone (RZ), and the peri-scar zone (PSZ). The number of SSTR2+ neutrophils (NPs), SSTR2+ monocytes/macrophages (Mos/MPs), and SSTR2+ vessels were counted. In the myocardium of the control group, SSTR2+ NPs and SSTR2+ Mos/MPs were occasional, SSTR2+ vessels were absent. In the RZ, the picture was similar to the control group, but there was a lower number of SSTR2+ Mos/MPs in the RZ. In the PSZ, SSTR2+ vessel numbers were highest in the myocardium. In the IC, the median number of SSTR2+ NPs was 200 times higher compared to the RZ or control group myocardium, which may explain the selective uptake of SSTR-targeted radiotracers in the MI area during the inflammatory phase of MI.

Somatostatin receptors in fibrotic myocardium

A patient with a neuroendocrine tumor and history of coronary artery disease underwent PET with 68Ga-DOTATATE PET tracer for tumor visualization. Analysis of the scan showed uptake of 68Ga-DOTATATE in the left ventricle corresponding to previous myocardial infarct. 68Ga-DOTATATE binds by somatostatin receptors (SSTR) and it has been proposed that it may be useful for the detection of cardiac inflammatory lesions. We aimed to test whether SSTR could be upregulated in cardiac fibrotic scar. We analyzed SSTR in cardiac samples from patients with end-stage ischemic cardiomyopathy (ICM, n = 8) and control hearts (n = 5). In mature ICM tissue, SSTR1 and SSTR2 expression was unchanged and SSTR5 expression was significantly decreased in ICM samples vs. control. Immunohistochemistry showed increased SSTR1 and SSTR2 in ICM. Areas with SSTR1 or SSTR2 staining were often adjacent to fibrotic areas. The majority of SSTR1 and SSTR2 staining localized in cardiomyocytes in fibrotic scar-rich areas where CD68 macrophage staining was not present. SSTR are occasionally upregulated in cardiac fibrotic areas. When using 68Ga-DOTATATE PET tracer to detect cardiac sarcoidosis or atherosclerotic plaque, the possibility of tracer uptake in fibrotic areas should be considered.

The Role of Receptor-Ligand Interaction in Somatostatin Signaling Pathways: Implications for Neuroendocrine Tumors

Neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) arise from neuroendocrine cells and manifest in diverse organs. Key players in their regulation are somatostatin and its receptors (SSTR1-SSTR5). Understanding receptor-ligand interactions and signaling pathways is vital for elucidating their role in tumor development and therapeutic potential. This review highlights SSTR characteristics, localization, and expression in tissues, impacting physiological functions. Mechanisms of somatostatin and synthetic analogue binding to SSTRs, their selectivity, and their affinity were analyzed. Upon activation, somatostatin initiates intricate intracellular signaling, involving cAMP, PLC, and MAP kinases and influencing growth, differentiation, survival, and hormone secretion in NETs. This review explores SSTR expression in different tumor types, examining receptor activation effects on cancer cells. SSTRs' significance as therapeutic targets is discussed. Additionally, somatostatin and analogues' role in hormone secretion regulation, tumor growth, and survival is emphasized, presenting relevant therapeutic examples. In conclusion, this review advances the knowledge of receptor-ligand interactions and signaling pathways in somatostatin receptors, with potential for improved neuroendocrine tumor treatments.

[64Cu]Cu-DOTATATE PET metrics in the investigation of atherosclerotic inflammation in humans

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to assess and compare the arterial uptake of the inflammatory macrophage targeting PET tracer [64Cu]Cu-DOTATATE in patients with no or known cardiovascular disease (CVD) to investigate potential differences in uptake.

METHODS

Seventy-nine patients who had undergone [64Cu]Cu-DOTATATE PET/CT imaging for neuroendocrine neoplasm disease were retrospectively allocated to three groups: controls with no known CVD risk factors (n = 22), patients with CVD risk factors (n = 24), or patients with known ischemic CVD (n = 33). Both maximum, mean of max and most-diseased segment (mds) standardized uptake value (SUV) and target-to-background ratio (TBR) uptake metrics were measured and reported for the carotid arteries and the aorta. To assess reproducibility between different reviewers, Bland-Altman plots were made.

RESULTS

For the carotid arteries, SUVmax (P = .03), SUVmds (0.05), TBRmax (P < .01), TBRmds (P < .01), and mean-of-max TBR (P = .01) were overall shown to provide a group-wise difference in uptake. When measuring uptake values in the aorta, a group-wise difference was only observed with TBRmds (P = .04). Overall, reproducibility of the reported uptake metrics was excellent for SUVs and good to excellent for TBRs for both the carotid arteries and the aorta.

CONCLUSION

Using [64Cu]Cu-DOTATATE PET imaging as a marker of atherosclerotic inflammation, we were able to demonstrate differences in some of the most frequently reported uptake metrics in patients with different degrees of CVD. Measurements of the carotid artery as either maximum uptake values or most-diseased segment analysis showed the best ability to discriminate between the groups.

Evolving role of seneca valley virus and its biomarker TEM8/ANTXR1 in cancer therapeutics

Oncolytic viruses have made a significant inroad in cancer drug development. Numerous clinical trials are currently investigating oncolytic viruses both as single agents or in combination with various immunomodulators. Oncolytic viruses (OV) are an integral pillar of immuno-oncology and hold potential for not only delivering durable anti-tumor responses but also converting “cold” tumors to “hot” tumors. In this review we will discuss one such promising oncolytic virus called Seneca Valley Virus (SVV-001) and its therapeutic implications. SVV development has seen seismic evolution over the past decade and now boasts of being the only OV with a practically applicable biomarker for viral tropism. We discuss relevant preclinical and clinical data involving SVV and how bio-selecting for TEM8/ANTXR1, a negative tumor prognosticator can lead to first of its kind biomarker driven oncolytic viral cancer therapy.

Somatostatin Primes Endothelial Cells for Agonist-Induced Hyperpermeability and Angiogenesis In Vitro

Somatostatin is an inhibitory peptide, which regulates the release of several hormones, and affects neurotransmission and cell proliferation via its five G_i protein-coupled receptors (SST_1-5). Although its endocrine regulatory and anti-tumour effects have been thoroughly studied, little is known about its effect on the vascular system. The aim of the present study was to analyse the effects and potential mechanisms of somatostatin on endothelial barrier function. Cultured human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) express mainly SST₁ and SST₅ receptors. Somatostatin did not affect the basal HUVEC permeability, but primed HUVEC monolayers for thrombin-induced hyperpermeability. Western blot data demonstrated that somatostatin activated the phosphoinositide 3-kinases (PI3K)/protein kinase B (Akt) and p42/44 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways by phosphorylation. The HUVEC barrier destabilizing effects were abrogated by pre-treating HUVECs with mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase/extracellular signal regulated kinase (MEK/ERK), but not the Akt inhibitor. Moreover, somatostatin pre-treatment amplified vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-induced angiogenesis (3D spheroid formation) in HUVECs. In conclusion, the data demonstrate that HUVECs under quiescence conditions express SST₁ and SST₅ receptors. Moreover, somatostatin primes HUVECs for thrombin-induced hyperpermeability mainly via the activation of MEK/ERK signalling and promotes HUVEC proliferation and angiogenesis in vitro.

Peptide receptor radionuclide therapy in patients with medullary thyroid carcinoma: predictors and pitfalls

Background

For progressive metastatic medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC), the available treatment options with tyrosine kinase inhibitors result in grade 3–4 adverse events in a large number of patients. Peptide Receptor Radionuclide Therapy (PRRT), which has also been suggested to be a useful treatment for MTC, is usually well tolerated, but evidence on its effectivity is very limited.

Methods

Retrospective evaluation of treatment effects of PRRT in a highly selected group of MTC patients, with progressive disease or refractory symptoms. In addition, a retrospective evaluation of uptake on historical ¹¹¹In-DTPA-octreotide scans was performed in patients with detectable tumor size > 1 cm.

Results

Over the last 17 years, 10 MTC patients were treated with PRRT. Four out of 10 patients showed stable disease at first follow-up (8 months after start of therapy) whereas the other 6 were progressive. Patients with stable disease were characterized by a combination of both a high uptake on ¹¹¹In-DTPA-octreotide scan (uptake grade ≥ 3) and a positive somatostatin receptor type 2a (SSTR2a) expression of the tumor by immunohistochemistry. Retrospective evaluation of historical ¹¹¹In-DTPA-octreotide scans of 35 non-treated MTC patients revealed low uptake (uptake grade 1) in the vast majority of patients 31/35 (89%) with intermediate uptake (uptake grade 2) in the remaining 4/35 (11%).

Conclusions

PRRT using ¹⁷⁷Lu-octreotate could be considered as a treatment in those patients with high uptake on ¹¹¹In-DTPA-octreotide scan (uptake grade 3) and positive SSTR2a expression in tumor histology. Since this high uptake was present in a very limited number of patients, this treatment is only suitable in a selected group of MTC patients.

Pancreatic Blood Flow with Special Emphasis on Blood Perfusion of the Islets of Langerhans

The pancreatic islets are more richly vascularized than the exocrine pancreas, and possess a 5- to 10-fold higher basal and stimulated blood flow, which is separately regulated. This is reflected in the vascular anatomy of the pancreas where islets have separate arterioles. There is also an insulo-acinar portal system, where numerous venules connect each islet to the acinar capillaries. Both islets and acini possess strong metabolic regulation of their blood perfusion. Of particular importance, especially in the islets, is adenosine and ATP/ADP. Basal and stimulated blood flow is modified by local endothelial mediators, the nervous system as well as gastrointestinal hormones. Normally the responses to the nervous system, especially the parasympathetic and sympathetic nerves, are fairly similar in endocrine and exocrine parts. The islets seem to be more sensitive to the effects of endothelial mediators, especially nitric oxide, which is a permissive factor to maintain the high basal islet blood flow. The gastrointestinal hormones with pancreatic effects mainly influence the exocrine pancreatic blood flow, whereas islets are less affected. A notable exception is incretin hormones and adipokines, which preferentially affect islet vasculature. Islet hormones can influence both exocrine and endocrine blood vessels, and these complex effects are discussed. Secondary changes in pancreatic and islet blood flow occur during several conditions. To what extent changes in blood perfusion may affect the pathogenesis of pancreatic diseases is discussed. Both type 2 diabetes mellitus and acute pancreatitis are conditions where we think there is evidence that blood flow may contribute to disease manifestations. © 2019 American Physiological Society. Compr Physiol 9:799-837, 2019.

PET/CT Imaging of Unstable Carotid Plaque with 68Ga-Labeled Somatostatin Receptor Ligand

⁶⁸Ga-labeled somatostatin receptor ligand PET imaging has recently been shown in preclinical and early human studies to have a potential role in the evaluation of vulnerable arterial plaques. We prospectively evaluated carotid plaque ⁶⁸Ga-DOTATATE uptake in patients with recent carotid events, assessed inter- and intraobserver variability of such measurements, and explored the mechanism of any plaque DOTATATE activity with immunohistochemistry in resected specimens. Methods: Twenty consecutively consenting patients with recent symptomatic carotid events (transient ischemic attack, stroke, or amaurosis fugax), due for carotid endarterectomy, were prospectively recruited. ⁶⁸Ga-DOTATATE PET/CT of the neck was performed before surgery. ⁶⁸Ga-DOTATATE uptake was measured by drawing regions of interest along the carotid plaques and contralateral plaques/carotid arteries by an experienced radionuclide radiologist and radiographer. Two PET quantification methods with inter- and intraobserver variability were assessed. Resected carotid plaques were retrieved for somatostatin receptor subtype-2 (sst2) immunohistochemical staining. Results: The median time delay between research PET and surgery was 2 d. SUVs and target-to-background ratios for the symptomatic plaques and the asymptomatic contralateral carotid arteries/plaques showed no significant difference (n = 19, P > 0.10), regardless of quantification method. The intraclass correlation coefficient was greater than 0.8 in all measures of carotid artery/plaque uptake (SUV) and greater than 0.6 in almost all measures of target-to-background ratio. None of the excised plaques was shown to contain cells (macrophages, lymphocytes, vessel-associated cells) expressing sst2 on their cell membrane. Conclusion:⁶⁸Ga-DOTATATE activity on PET in recently symptomatic carotid plaques is not significantly different from contralateral carotids/plaques. Any activity seen on PET is not shown to be from specific sst2 receptor-mediated uptake in vitro. It is therefore unlikely that sst2 PET/CT imaging will have a role in the detection and characterization of symptomatic carotid plaques.

Presence of sst5TMD4, a truncated splice variant of the somatostatin receptor subtype 5, is associated to features of increased aggressiveness in pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors

Purpose

Gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (GEP-NETs) are rare and heterogeneous tumors, and their biological behavior is not well known. We studied the presence and potential functional roles of somatostatin receptors (sst1-5), focusing particularly on the truncated variants (sst5TMD4, sst5TMD5) and on their relationships with the angiogenic system (Ang/Tie-2 and VEGF) in human GEP-NETs.

Experimental Design

We evaluated 42 tumor tissue samples (26 primary/16 metastatic) from 26 patients with GEP-NETs, and 30 non-tumoral tissues (26 from adjacent non-tumor regions and 4 from normal controls) from a single center. Expression of sst1-5, sst5TMD4, sst5TMD5, Ang1-2, Tie-2 and VEGF was analyzed using real-time qPCR, immunofluorescence and immunohistochemistry. Expression levels were associated with tumor characteristics and clinical outcomes. Functional role of sst5TMD4 was analyzed in GEP-NET cell lines.

Results

sst1 exhibited the highest expression in GEP-NET, whilst sst2 was the most frequently observed sst-subtype (90.2%). Expression levels of sst1, sst2, sst3, sst5TMD4, and sst5TMD5 were significantly higher in tumor tissues compared to their adjacent non-tumoral tissue. Lymph-node metastases expressed higher levels of sst5TMD4 than in its corresponding primary tumor tissue. sst5TMD4 was also significantly higher in intestinal tumor tissues from patients with residual disease of intestinal origin compared to those with non-residual disease. Functional assays demonstrated that the presence of sst5TMD4 was associated to enhanced malignant features in GEP-NET cells. Angiogenic markers correlated positively with sst5TMD4, which was confirmed by immunohistochemical/fluorescence studies.

Conclusions

sst5TMD4 is overexpressed in GEP-NETs and is associated to enhanced aggressiveness, suggesting its potential value as biomarker and target in GEP-NETs.

Cushing's disease and hypertension: in vivo and in vitro study of the role of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system and effects of medical therapy

OBJECTIVE/METHODS

Cushing's disease (CD) is often accompanied by hypertension. CD can be treated surgically and, given the expression of somatostatin subtype 5 and dopamine 2 receptors by corticotroph pituitary adenomas, pharmacologically. Indeed, we recently observed that stepwise medical combination therapy with the somatostatin-analog pasireotide, the dopamine-agonist cabergoline, and ketoconazole (which directly suppresses steroidogenesis) biochemically controlled CD patients and lowered their blood pressure after 80 days. Glucocorticoids (GC) modulate the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) among others by increasing hepatic angiotensinogen expression and stimulating mineralocorticoid receptors (MR). This study therefore evaluated plasma RAAS components in CD patients before and after drug therapy. In addition, we studied whether cabergoline/pasireotide have direct relaxant effects in angiotensin II (Ang II)-constricted iliac arteries of spontaneously hypertensive rats, with and without concomitant GR/MR stimulation with dexamethasone or hydrocortisone.

RESULTS

Baseline concentrations of angiotensinogen were elevated, while renin and aldosterone were low and suppressed, respectively, even in patients treated with RAAS-blockers. This pattern did not change after 80 days of treatment, despite blood pressure normalization, nor after 4 years of remission. In the presence of dexamethasone, pasireotide inhibited Ang II-mediated vasoconstriction.

CONCLUSIONS

The low plasma renin concentrations, even under RAAS blockade, in CD may be the consequence of increased GC-mediated MR stimulation and/or the elevated angiotensinogen levels in such patients. The lack of change in RAAS-parameters despite blood pressure and cortisol normalization suggests persisting consequences of long-term exposure to cortisol excess. Finally, pasireotide may have a direct vasodilating effect contributing to blood pressure lowering.

Octreotide therapy for the management of refractory chylous ascites after a staging operation for endometrial adenocarcinoma

Chylous ascites after para-aortic lymphadenectomy is caused by a rupture in the retroperitoneal lymphatic channels. The incidence of postoperative chylous ascites is increasing as para-aortic lymphadenectomy for the management of gynecologic malignancies becomes more common. However, management of this condition remains unsatisfactory because some patients do not respond to conservative methods and have to undergo surgical intervention, even though they may be malnourished and immunosuppressed. We report the case of a patient who underwent a standard staging operation for endometrial cancer and experienced a large amount of lymphatic leakage, in spite of treatment with total parenteral nutrition and a low-fat diet for over 40 days. As a step-up approach, octreotide, a somatostatin analog, was added and the disease resolved completely. This case demonstrated that octreotide therapy is highly effective in refractory cases of chylous ascites where a large amount of leakage is observed and cases that are otherwise indicated for surgical intervention.

Somatostatin receptors: from signaling to clinical practice

Somatostatin is a peptide with a potent and broad antisecretory action, which makes it an invaluable drug target for the pharmacological management of pituitary adenomas and neuroendocrine tumors. Somatostatin receptors (SSTR1, 2A and B, 3, 4 and 5) belong to the G protein coupled receptor family and have a wide expression pattern in both normal tissues and solid tumors. Investigating the function of each SSTR in several tumor types has provided a wealth of information about the common but also distinct signaling cascades that suppress tumor cell proliferation, survival and angiogenesis. This provided the rationale for developing multireceptor-targeted somatostatin analogs and combination therapies with signaling-targeted agents such as inhibitors of the mammalian (or mechanistic) target of rapamycin (mTOR). The ability of SSTR to internalize and the development of rabiolabeled somatostatin analogs have improved the diagnosis and treatment of neuroendocrine tumors.

Cortistatin inhibits migration and proliferation of human vascular smooth muscle cells and decreases neointimal formation on carotid artery ligation

RATIONALE

Proliferation and migration of smooth muscle cells (SMCs) are key steps for the progression of atherosclerosis and restenosis. Cortistatin is a multifunctional neuropeptide belonging to the somatostatin family that exerts unique functions in the nervous and immune systems. Cortistatin is elevated in plasma of patients experiencing coronary heart disease and attenuates vascular calcification.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the occurrence of vascular cortistatin and its effects on the proliferation and migration of SMCs in vitro and in vivo and to delimitate the receptors and signal transduction pathways governing its actions.

METHODS AND RESULTS

SMCs from mouse carotid and human aortic arteries and from human atherosclerotic plaques highly expressed cortistatin. Cortistatin expression positively correlated with the progression of arterial intima hyperplasia. Cortistatin inhibited platelet-derived growth factor-stimulated proliferation of human aortic SMCs via binding to somatostatin receptors (sst2 and sst5) and ghrelin receptor, induction of cAMP and p38-mitogen-activated protein kinase, and inhibition of Akt activity. Moreover, cortistatin impaired lamellipodia formation and migration of human aortic SMCs toward platelet-derived growth factor by inhibiting, in a ghrelin-receptor-dependent manner, Rac1 activation and cytosolic calcium increases. These effects on SMC proliferation and migration correlated with an inhibitory action of cortistatin on the neointimal formation in 2 models of carotid arterial ligation. Endogenous cortistatin seems to play a critical role in regulating SMC function because cortistatin-deficient mice developed higher neointimal hyperplasic lesions than wild-type mice.

CONCLUSIONS

Cortistatin emerges as a natural endogenous regulator of SMCs under pathological conditions and an attractive candidate for the pharmacological management of vascular diseases that course with neointimal lesion formation.

The cardiovascular system in growth hormone excess and growth hormone deficiency

The clinical conditions associated with GH excess and GH deficiency (GHD) are known to be associated with an increased risk for the cardiovascular morbidity and mortality, suggesting that either an excess or a deficiency in GH and/or IGF-I is deleterious for cardiovascular system. In patients with acromegaly, chronic GH and IGF-I excess commonly causes a specific cardiomyopathy characterized by a concentric cardiac hypertrophy associated with diastolic dysfunction and, in later stages, with systolic dysfunction ending in heart failure if GH/IGF-I excess is not controlled. Abnormalities of cardiac rhythm and anomalies of cardiac valves can also occur. Moreover, the increased prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors, such as hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and insulin resistance, as well as dyslipidemia, confer an increased risk for vascular atherosclerosis. Successful control of the disease is accompanied by a decrease of the cardiac mass and improvement of cardiac function and an improvement in cardiovascular risk factors. In patients with hypopituitarism, GHD has been considered the under- lying factor of the increased mortality when appropriate standard replacement of the pituitary hormones deficiencies is given. Either childhood-onset or adulthood-onset GHD are characterized by a cluster of abnormalities associated with an increased cardiovascular risk, including altered body composition, unfavorable lipid profile, insulin resistance, endothelial dysfunction and vascular atherosclerosis, a decrease in cardiac mass together with an impairment of systolic function mainly after exercise. Treatment with recombinant GH in patients with GHD is followed by an improvement of the cardiovascular risk factors and an increase in cardiac mass together with an improvement in cardiac performance. In conclusion, acromegaly and GHD are associated with an increased risk for cardiovascular morbidity and mortality, but the control of GH/IGF-I secretion reverses cardiovascular abnormalities and restores the normal life expectancy.

Antiangiogenic role of miR-361 in human umbilical vein endothelial cells: functional interaction with the peptide somatostatin

Somatostatin (SRIF) acts as antiangiogenic factor, but its role in the regulation of microRNAs (miRNAs) targeting proangiogenic factors is unknown. We used human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) to investigate whether (1) miRNAs targeting proangiogenic factors are influenced by hypoxia, (2) their expression is regulated by SRIF, and (3) SRIF-regulated miRNAs affect HUVEC angiogenic phenotype. The involvement of signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) 3 and hypoxia inducible factor (HIF)-1 in miRNA effects was studied. Quantitative real-time PCR, Western blot, cell proliferation assays, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) were used. Using specific algorithms, three miRNAs (miR-17, miR-18b, and miR-361) were predicted to bind angiogenesis-associated factors including STAT3, HIF-1α, and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). Hypoxia downregulates miR-17 and miR-361 without affecting miR-18b. SRIF restored decreased levels of miR-361 acting at the SRIF receptor sst(1). Downregulated miR-361 was also restored by HIF-1α inhibition with YC-1. Combined application of SRIF did not influence YC-1-induced miR-361 downregulation, suggesting that YC-1 and SRIF modulate miR-361 through a common mechanism involving HIF-1α. This possibility was confirmed by the result that HIF-1α activation in normoxia-downregulated miR-361 and that this downregulation was prevented by SRIF. miR-361 overexpression reduced hypoxia-induced cell proliferation and VEGF release indicating miR-361 involvement in the acquisition of an angiogenic phenotype by HUVEC. miR-361 effects on VEGF were enhanced by the coadministration of SRIF. Our results suggest that (1) SRIF regulates miR-361 expression through a control on HIF-1, (2) miR-361 affects HUVEC angiogenic phenotype, and (3) SRIF and miR-361 act cooperatively in limiting hypoxia-induced VEGF release.

Immunohistochemical expression and localization of somatostatin receptor subtypes in prostate cancer with neuroendocrine differentiation

The aim of the study is to examine the tissue expression and localization of the somatostatin receptors (SSTRs) in prostate cancer (PCa) with neuroendocrine (NE) differentiation. The five SSTR subtypes (SSTR1 to 5) were evaluated immunohistochemically in the secretory cells of normal-looking epithelium (Nep), high-grade prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia (HGPIN) and PCa in 20 radical prostatectomies (RPs) with Gleason score 3+3=6 acinar PCa; 20 RPs with GS 4+4=8 and 4+5=9 PCa; and 20 RPs with PCa with NE differentiation. The basal cells were evaluated in Nep and HGPIN. In all groups the stromal smooth muscle and endothelial cells were also analyzed. Concerning the secretory cells, (i) the greatest mean proportions of cells with strong cytoplasmic staining in PCa were seen for SSTR2, mainly in the group of RP with NE differentiation, and for SSTR4 in all three groups; the mean values in HGPIN were intermediate between Nep and PCa; (ii) Membrane staining was seen for SSTR3 and SSTR4; the mean percentages of positive cells, higher in SSTR3 than in SSTR4, decreased from Nep to HGPIN and PCa in all three RP groups; in the latter two, the mean percentages were similar; and (iii) Nuclear staining was seen with SSTR4 and SSTR5; for SSTR4, the mean percentages in the PCa of the three groups were higher than in HGPIN and Nep, the highest proportion being with PCa with NE differentiation. Concerning the basal cells, in Nep the mean proportions of cells with strong staining intensity were greater for SSTR1 and SSTR3 than for the other subtypes, the lowest being with SSTR2; in HGPIN the highest mean propositions of positive cells was with SSTR3, the proportions in the three RP groups being similar. Concerning the stromal smooth muscle and endothelial cells, the highest mean values being in SSTR1 and the lowest in SSTR5; for the former subtype the highest proportion of endothelial cells with strong intensity was seen in the RP NE group. In conclusion, this immunohistochemical study expands our knowledge on the expression and localization of five SSTRs in the various tissue components in the prostate with PCa with NE differentiation, compared with conventional PCa. Typing somatostatin receptor expression in NE tumours could be of relevance to target somatostatin analogue-based diagnostic approach and treatment.

Necrotizing enterocolitis in neonates receiving octreotide for the management of congenital hyperinsulinism

The somatostatin analog octreotide was used for the first time in the treatment of an infant with congenital hyperinsulinism in 1986. Since then, it is commonly used in the management of congenital hyperinsulinemic hypoglycemias. Despite a wide variety of potential adverse reactions, octreotide is generally well tolerated. It has been extensively demonstrated that octreotide reduces the splanchnic blood flow in a dose-dependent manner, affecting the entire gastrointestinal tract, and some concern has been recently raised regarding the potential implications of this effect in the development of necrotizing enterocolitis in neonates receiving octreotide for the management of congenital hyperinsulinism. The aim of this report is to present a series of patients treated at our institution in which we observed this association, and review the current related literature.

Somatostatin and somatostatin receptors: implications for neoplastic growth and cancer biology

Somatostatin agonists (SM-As) are capable of achieving durable symptomatic relief and significant clinical responses in certain tumours. Herein, we review the diverse direct and indirect mechanisms of antineoplastic activity elicited by SM-As as well as the hurdles that complicate their use as monotherapies in a broader range of malignancies. Emphasis is placed on recent clinical attempts to neutralise the IGF-mediated survival factor effects in the bone metastasis microenvironment in advanced prostate cancer. The first clinical trials of this 'anti-survival factor manipulation' strategy utilised the ability of SM-As to suppress the growth hormone-dependent liver-derived IGF-I bioavailability in combination with other drugs, such as dexamethasone, zolendronate and oestrogens, acting systemically and at the bone metastasis microenvironment. These regimens restored androgen ablation responsiveness in stage D3 prostate cancer patients and successfully produced objective clinical responses while only mild toxicities were observed. Furthermore, we focus on the preclinical experimental data of a targeted SM-A coupled to the super-potent doxorubicin derivative AN-201. The resulting conjugate (AN-238) has shown increased antitumour potency with a favourable toxicity profile. The potential use of novel SM-As as anticancer drugs is discussed in relation to data suggesting other direct and indirect treatment approaches pertaining to the somatostatin system.

Expression of the somatostatin receptor subtype 4 in intact and inflamed pulmonary tissues

Somatostatin released from capsaicin-sensitive sensory nerves of the lung during endotoxin-induced murine pneumonitis inhibits inflammation and hyperresponsiveness, presumably via somatostatin receptor subtype 4 (sst(4)). The goal of the present study was to identify sst(4) receptors in mouse and human lungs and to reveal its inflammation-induced alterations with real-time quantitative PCR, Western blot, and immunohistochemistry. In non-inflamed mouse and human lungs, mRNA expression and immunolocalization of sst(4) are very similar. They are present on bronchial epithelial, vascular endothelial, and smooth-muscle cells. The sst(4) receptor protein in the mouse lung significantly increases 24 hr after intranasal endotoxin administration as well as in response to 3 months of whole-body cigarette smoke exposure, owing to the infiltrating sst(4)-positive mononuclear cells and neutrophils. In the chronically inflamed human lung, the large number of activated macrophages markedly elevate sst(4) mRNA levels, although there is no change in acute purulent pneumonia, in which granulocytes accumulate. Despite mouse granulocytes, human neutrophils do not show sst(4) immunopositivity. We provide the first evidence for the expression, localization, and inflammation-induced alterations of sst(4) receptors in murine and human lungs. Inasmuch as tissue distribution of this receptor is highly similar, extrapolation of murine experimental results to human conditions might be possible.

The role(s) of somatostatin, structurally related peptides and somatostatin receptors in the gastrointestinal tract: a review

Extensive functional and morphological research has demonstrated the pivotal role of somatostatin (SOM) in the regulation of a wide variety of gastrointestinal activities. In addition to its profound inhibitory effects on gastrointestinal motility and exocrine and endocrine secretion processes along the entire gastrointestinal tract, SOM modulates several organ-specific activities. In contrast to these well-known SOM-dependent effects, knowledge on the SOM receptors (SSTR) involved in these effects is much less conclusive. Experimental data on the identities of the SSTRs, although species- and tissue-dependent, point towards the involvement of multiple receptor subtypes in the vast majority of gastrointestinal SOM-mediated effects. Recent evidence demonstrating the role of SOM in intestinal pathologies has extended the interest of gastrointestinal research in this peptide even further. More specifically, SOM is supposed to suppress intestinal inflammatory responses by interfering with the extensive bidirectional communication between mucosal mast cells and neurons. This way, SOM not only acts as a powerful inhibitor of the inflammatory cascade at the site of inflammation, but exerts a profound antinociceptive effect through the modulation of extrinsic afferent nerve fibres. The combination of these physiological and pathological activities opens up new opportunities to explore the potential of stable SOM analogues in the treatment of GI inflammatory pathologies.

Intimal Hyperplasia in Rats after Subcutaneous Injection of a Somatostatin Analog

The somatostatin analog octreotide was administered to male and female Sprague-Dawley rats by subcutaneous injection for thirteen weeks at 0 (saline control), 0 (placebo control [mannitol and lactic acid; pH 4.2]), 1.25 mg/kg/day and 2.5 mg/kg/day to explore its potential effect on cutaneous vascular morphology. The placebo caused an increase in the incidence of intimal hyperplasia compared to saline controls in female rats; octreotide increased the incidence and severity of intimal hyperplasia in males and females. Intimal hyperplasia consisted of increased numbers of cells located between the endothelial cell layer and the internal elastic lamina. Severity was based on the degree of compromise of the vascular lumen (regardless of vessel size and number), with severely affected vessels having no visible lumen. Intimal hyperplasia in rats treated with octreotide was considered to be an unexpected and adverse finding, given that this compound and other somatostatin analogs have been investigated as reducers of intimal proliferation or restenosis after angioplasty in humans and that no such lesion has been reported in the literature for this class of compound to date. The induction of intimal hyperplasia by the placebo is also a notable finding; this may be because of the low pH of the formulation.

Inhibitory effects of synthetic somatostatin receptor subtype 4 agonists on acute and chronic airway inflammation and hyperreactivity in the mouse

Somatostatin released from activated capsaicin-sensitive afferents of the lung inhibits inflammation and related bronchial hyperreactivity presumably via somatostatin 4 receptors (sst(4)). The aim of this study was to examine the effects of TT-232, a heptapeptide sst(4)/sst(1) receptor agonist and J-2156, a high affinity sst(4) receptor-selective peptidomimetic agonist in airway inflammation models. Acute pneumonitis was evoked by intranasal lipopolysaccharide 24 h before measurement. Chronic inflammation was induced by ovalbumin inhalation on days 28, 29 and 30 after i.p. sensitization on days 1 and 14. Semiquantitative histopathological scoring was based on perivascular/peribronchial oedema, neutrophil/macrophage infiltration, goblet cell hyperplasia in the acute model and eosinophil infiltration, mucosal oedema, mucus production and epithelial cell damage in chronic inflammation. Myeloperoxidase activity of the lung was measured spectrophotometrically to quantify granulocyte accumulation and the broncoalveolar lavage fluid was analysed by flow cytometry. Carbachol-induced bronchoconstriction was assessed by unrestrained whole body plethysmography and its calculated indicator, enhanced pause (Penh) was determined. TT-232 and J-2156 induced similar inhibition on granulocyte recruitment and histopathological changes in both models, although macrophage infiltration in LPS-induced inflammation was unaltered by either compounds. Both agonists diminished inflammatory airway hyperresponsiveness. Since their single administration after the development of the inflammatory reactions also inhibited carbachol-induced bronchoconstriction, somatostatin sst(4) receptor activation on bronchial smooth muscle cells is likely to be involved in their anti-hyperreactivity effect. These results suggest that stable, somatostatin sst(4) receptor-selective agonists could be potential candidates for the development of a completely novel group of anti-inflammatory drugs for the treatment of airway inflammation and hyperresponsiveness.

In vitro antiangiogenic activity of selective somatostatin subtype-1 receptor agonists

BACKGROUND

Endothelial cells of human blood vessels (arteries and veins) show high levels of somatostatin subtype-1 receptor (sst(1)). The aim of the present study is to investigate the inhibitory effects of novel somatostatin analogs, highly selective for human sst(1), on in vitro angiogenesis and their modulation of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-2 (VEGFR-2) expression.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Somatostatin analogs BIM-23745 and BIM-23926 were tested for their ability to prevent proliferation and migration of human endothelial HMEC-1 cells, to modulate VEGF and VEGFR-2 expression and to inhibit sprouting of microvessels from cultured human placental vessel explants in fibrin matrix for 28 days.

RESULTS

The somatostatin sst(1 )receptor-selective agonists, BIM-23745 and BIM-23926 showed a suppression of endothelial proliferation (e.g. 10(-6) M BIM-23475, 40.0 +/- 2.1% vs. 100% of controls; 10(-7) M BIM-23926, 55.3 +/- 3.3% vs. 100% of controls), migration (e.g. 10(-7) M BIM-23475, 35.0 +/- 1.56% vs. 100% of controls; 10(-7) M BIM-23926, 53.7 +/- 1.77% vs. 100% of controls) and microvessel sprouting (e.g. 10(-8) M BIM-23475, 42.8 +/- 5.6% vs. 100% of controls; 10(-7) M BIM-23926, 17.2 +/- 11.8% vs. 100% of controls). A small but significant percentage of cells exposed to BIM-23745 and BIM-23926 for 24 h and for 72 h presented typical apoptotic morphology. Moreover, both the analogs significantly inhibit VEGF and VEGFR-2 gene expression in endothelial cells grown for 144 h in a fibrin matrix and the VEGF secretion in conditioned media.

CONCLUSIONS

The inhibition of endothelial activities suggests potential therapeutic utility for administration of somatostatin sst(1 )receptor-selective agonists in the proliferative diseases involving angiogenesis.

Expression of somatostatin receptors in splanchnic blood vessels of normal and cirrhotic rats

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Somatostatin has been used for over two decades to treat acute variceal bleeding. Although it is assumed that somatostatin lowers portal pressure by constriction of the splanchnic arteries, little is known about the expression of somatostatin receptors (SSTR) in splanchnic blood vessels. In this study we investigated SSTR expression in splanchnic blood vessels from normal and cirrhotic rats.

METHODS/RESULTS

Cirrhosis was induced by intraperitoneal injection of 50 mg thioacetamide twice a week for 14 weeks. In portal vein, mesenteric artery and aorta of normal and cirrhotic rats, mRNA for the five known SSTR was measured by quantitative reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction. SSTR subtypes 1, 2, 3 and 4 were expressed, but subtype 5 was undetectable. In the portal vein of cirrhotic animals, SSTR1 was significantly down-regulated as compared with controls. Otherwise, no major differences in receptor expression between normal and cirrhotic animals were observed. Using immunohistochemistry, we identified all five receptors, although the staining of receptor 5 was very weak.

CONCLUSION

All five SSTR are expressed in splanchnic blood vessels. Our results suggest that cirrhosis reduces expression of SSTR1 in portal vein. In other vessels, no major differences between the normal and cirrhotic state were noted.

Inhibitory effect of somatostatin on inflammation and nociception

The present review focuses on promising new opportunities for anti-inflammatory and analgesic therapy. The theoretical background is an original observation based on our own experimental results. These data demonstrate that somatostatin is released from capsaicin-sensitive, peptidergic sensory nerve endings in response to noxious heat and chemical stimuli such as vanilloids, protons or lipoxygenase products. It reaches distant parts of the body via the circulation and exerts systemic anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects. Somatostatin binds to G-protein-coupled membrane receptors (sst(1)-sst(5)) and diminishes neurogenic inflammation by prejunctional action on sensory-efferent nerve terminals, as well as by postjunctional mechanisms on target cells. It decreases the release of pro-inflammatory neuropeptides from sensory nerve endings and also acts on receptors of vascular endothelial, inflammatory and immune cells. Analgesic effect is mediated by an inhibitory action on peripheral terminals of nociceptive neurons, since circulating somatostatin cannot exert central action. Somatostatin itself is not suitable for drug development because of its broad spectrum and short elimination half life, stable, receptor-selective agonists have been synthesized and investigated. The present overview is aimed at summarizing the physiological importance of somatostatin and sst receptors, pharmacological significance of synthetic agonists and their potential in the development of novel anti-inflammatory and analgesic drugs. These compounds might provide novel perspectives in the pharmacotherapy of acute and chronic painful inflammatory diseases, as well as neuropathic conditions.

Effects of the somatostatin receptor subtype 4 selective agonist J-2156 on sensory neuropeptide release and inflammatory reactions in rodents

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Substance P (SP) and calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) released from capsaicin-sensitive sensory nerves induce local neurogenic inflammation; somatostatin exerts systemic anti-inflammatory actions presumably via sst4/sst1 receptors. This study investigates the effects of a high affinity, sst4-selective, synthetic agonist, J-2156, on sensory neuropeptide release in vitro and inflammatory processes in vivo.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

Electrically-induced SP, CGRP and somatostatin release from isolated rat tracheae was measured with radioimmunoassay. Mustard oil-induced neurogenic inflammation in rat hindpaw skin was determined by Evans blue leakage and in the mouse ear with micrometry. Dextran-, carrageenan- or bradykinin-induced non-neurogenic inflammation was examined with plethysmometry or Evans blue, respectively. Adjuvant-induced chronic arthritis was assessed by plethysmometry and histological scoring. Granulocyte accumulation was determined with myeloperoxidase assay and IL-1beta with ELISA.

KEY RESULTS

J-2156 (10-2000 nM) diminished electrically-evoked neuropeptide release in a concentration-dependent manner. EC50 for the inhibition of substance P, CGRP and somatostatin release were 11.6 nM, 14.3 nM and 110.7 nM, respectively. J-2156 (1-100 microg kg(-1) i.p.) significantly, but not dose-dependently, inhibited neurogenic and non-neurogenic acute inflammatory processes and adjuvant-induced chronic oedema and arthritic changes. Endotoxin-evoked myeloperoxidase activity and IL-1beta production in the lung, but not IL-1beta- or zymosan-induced leukocyte accumulation in the skin were significantly diminished by J-2156.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

J-2156 acting on sst4 receptors inhibits neuropeptide release, vascular components of acute inflammatory processes, endotoxin-induced granulocyte accumulation and IL-1beta synthesis in the lung and synovial and inflammatory cells in chronic arthritis. Therefore it might be a promising lead for the development of novel anti-inflammatory drugs.

Neuropeptide B and W: neurotransmitters in an emerging G-protein-coupled receptor system

Deorphanised G-protein-coupled receptors represent new and expanding targets for drug development. Neuropeptide B (NPB) and W (NPW) have recently been identified as the cognate endogenous ligands for the orphan receptor GPR7, now designated as NPBW(1). NPB and NPW also bound to a second related orphan receptor, GPR8, now designated as NPBW(2) that is present in humans but not rats or mice. In humans, high levels of NPW mRNA have been visualised in the substantia nigra, whereas moderate expression levels have been detected in the amygdala and hippocampus. In peripheral tissues, expression of NPW mRNA has been confirmed in the progenital system, comprising the kidney, testis, uterus, ovary and placenta, and also in stomach homogenates. Immunocytochemical, molecular biological and autoradiography techniques have revealed a discrete CNS distribution for NPBW(1) in human, mouse and rat. Highest expression of NPBW(1) mRNA and protein was identified in the amygdala and hypothalamic nuclei known to regulate feeding behaviour. [(125)I]-NPW bound with a single high affinity to rat amygdala, K(D)=0.44 nM and 150 fmol mg(-1) protein. Physiological studies demonstrate that intracerebroventricular infusion of NPBW(1) ligands modulates feeding behaviour, regulates the release of corticosterone, prolactin and growth hormone while also manipulating pain pathway. Mouse knockout models of the gene encoding either NPB or NPBW(1) have a gender-specific phenotype, with moderate obesity evident in males but not females. Further investigation is required to elucidate the precise physiological role of NPB and NPW as neurotransmitters.

First human experience with angiopeptin-eluting stent: a quantitative coronary angiography and three-dimensional intravascular ultrasound study

Angiopeptin has been shown to reduce in-stent restenosis in various animal models. Meanwhile, BiodivYsio DD phosphorylcholine (PC)-coated stent provides a platform for local delivery of antiproliferative agents to the coronary artery. We studied the feasibility, safety, and impact on tissue growth of angiopeptin-eluting BiodivYsio DD PC-coated stents in human native de novo coronary lesions. We enrolled 14 patients (16 lesions) who underwent intravascular ultrasound (IVUS)-guided angiopeptin-eluting stent implantation in native coronary arteries between 3.0 and 4.0 mm in diameter with lesion length<or=18 mm. We successfully implanted 13 stents loaded with 22 microg of angiopeptin and three stents with 126 microg of angiopeptin. No major adverse cardiac events or target vessel failure occurred at 1-year clinical follow-up. All patients underwent 6-month angiographic and volumetric IVUS follow-up. In-stent late loss was 0.46+/-0.32 mm in the low-dose group and 0.26+/-0.14 mm in the high-dose group. Binary restenosis rate was 0%. Follow-up percentage neointimal hyperplasia by IVUS was 18.4%+/-22.5% for the low-dose group and 10.2%+/-5.8% for the high-dose group, respectively. There were no edge effect and late stent malapposition. Angiopeptin-eluting BiodivYsio DD PC stent appears feasible and safe in treating native de novo coronary lesions with modest degree of neointimal hyperplasia.

Systemic distribution of somatostatin receptor subtypes in human: an immunohistochemical study

Somatostatin is well known to inhibit the hormone secretion of various peptides. This action has been considered to be generally mediated via six different specific somatostatin receptors (sstr), sstr1, sstr2A, sstr2B, sstr3, sstr4, and sstr5. It then becomes very important to demonstrate the localization of these sstr subtypes in order to elucidate the possible biological and/or clinical significance of somatostatin actions. These sstr subtypes have been demonstrated to be expressed throughout the human body, including the central nervous system, gastrointestinal tract, pancreas, kidney, and other organs, but its details, especially its systemic distribution and localization in tissue compartments, have yet to be examined thoroughly in human. Therefore, in this study, we examined the systemic localization of all six somatostatin receptors in normal human organs using immunohistochemistry with recently developed specific antibodies against these receptor subtypes. In all of the human tissues examined, various sstr subtypes were detected not only in parenchymal cells but also in various stromal cells such as lymphocytes, fibroblasts, and endothelial cells. Among human tissues in which the presence of sstr has not been previously reported, the parotid gland demonstrated immunoreactivity for sstr2B and sstr5, bronchial gland for sstr1, 2B, 3, 4, 5, parathyroid gland for sstr1, 3, 4, and duodenum for all subtypes immunoreactivity. The great majority of other organs examined demonstrated results consistent with those of previously reported biochemical studies. In pancreatic islet cells, only sstr2A was positive in all the cases but other sstr subtypes were associated with marked intraislet heterogeneity in their distribution. In stomach, all subtypes of receptor were detected in various cell types of the mucosa, but none in ECL cells of fundic gland. These findings demonstrated the broad systemic actions of somatostatin in non-endocrine cells.

Somatostatin receptors 2 and 5 are preferentially expressed in proliferating endothelium

Angiogenesis is characterised by activation, migration and proliferation of endothelial cells and is central to the pathology of cancer, cardiovascular disease and chronic inflammation. Somatostatin is an inhibitory polypeptide that acts through five receptors (sst 1, 2, 3, 4, 5). Sst has previously been reported in endothelium, but their role remains obscure. Here, we report the expression of sst in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) in vitro, during proliferation and quiescence. A protocol for culturing proliferating and quiescent HUVECs was established, and verified by analysing cell cycle distribution in propidium-iodide-stained samples using flow cytometry. Sst mRNA was then quantified in nine proliferating and quiescent HUVEC lines using quantitative reverse transcriptase–polymerase chain reaction. Sst 2 and 5 were preferentially expressed in proliferating HUVECs. All samples were negative for sst 4. Sst 1 and 3 expression and cell cycle progression were unrelated. Immunostaining for sst 2 and 5 showed positivity in proliferating but not quiescent cells, confirming sst 2 and 5 protein expression. Inhibition of proliferating cells with somatostatin analogues Octreotide and SOM230, which have sst 5 activity, was found (Octreotide 10⁻¹⁰–10⁻⁶ M: 48.5–70.2% inhibition; SOM230 10⁻⁹–10⁻⁶ M: 44.9–65.4% inhibition) in a dose-dependent manner, suggesting that sst 5 may have functional activity in proliferation. Dynamic changes in sst 2 and 5 expression during the cell cycle and the inhibition of proliferation with specific analogues suggest that these receptors may have a role in angiogenesis.

Somatostatin Analogue Mimics Acute Ischemic Preconditioning in a Rat Model of Myocardial Infarction

We tested the hypothesis that octreotide, a somatostatin analogue, can mimic ischemic preconditioning (PC) to provide cardioprotection against myocardial infarction. An ischemia-reperfusion model of adult Wistar rats was used. Infarct size was expressed as a percentage of the area at risk under different treatment protocols. Octreotide PC (35 microg/Kg 20 minutes before ischemia-reperfusion) significantly decreased infarct size (18 +/- 4%) versus control (60 +/- 7%). The somatostatin receptor antagonist cyclo-somatostatin (0.5 mg/Kg) could blunt the above cardioprotection. Administration of either chelerythrine (a protein kinase C inhibitor, 2 mg/Kg) or genistein (a tyrosine kinase inhibitor, 5 mg/Kg) could also block octreotide PC (54 +/- 7% and 58 +/- 6%, respectively). Pretreatment with the mitochondrial ATP-sensitive potassium channel antagonist 5-hydroxydecanoic acid (5-HD) and the sarcolemmal ATP-sensitive potassium channel antagonist glibenclamide could abolish the effects of octreotide PC (54 +/- 6% and 52 +/- 6%). Chelerythrine, however, had no effect on octreotide PC. In conclusion, the present study demonstrates that octreotide can mimic ischemic PC to reduce infarct size. Acute effects of octreotide PC involve the activation of protein kinase C, tyrosine kinase C, and mitochondrial ATP-sensitive potassium channels, but not systemic IGF-I activation.

TNF-alpha decreases expression of somatostatin, somatostatin receptors, and cortistatin in human coronary endothelial cells

BACKGROUND

The objective of this study was to determine the expression of somatostatin (SST) and its receptors (SSTRs) and their regulation by TNF-alpha as well as cell proliferation in response to SST in human endothelial cells.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Human coronary artery endothelial cells (HCAECs) were cultured without or with TNF-alpha (0.1, 1, or 10 ng/ml) for 24 h. The mRNA levels of SST, SSTR-1-5, as well as a housekeeping gene (beta-actin) were determined by real-time RT-PCR. Expression of SSTR-2 was also demonstrated by immunofluorescence staining. Cell proliferation in response to SST treatment (0.04, 0.2, or 1 ng/ml) was performed by [3H]thymidine incorporation.

RESULTS

Without TNF-alpha treatment, HCAECs showed mRNA expression of SST, SSTR-1, SSTR-2, and SSTR-5. The mRNA of SSTR-2 was expressed at a higher level than that of SSTR-1 and SSTR-5. However, SSTR-3 and SSTR-4 were not expressed or were minimally expressed. After treatment with TNF-alpha, the mRNA levels of SST, SSTR-1, SSTR-2, and SSTR-5 were significantly reduced in a dose-dependent fashion. TNF-alpha (1 ng/ml) reduced SST, SSTR-1, SSTR-2, and SSTR-5 by 93, 51, 85, and 99%, respectively, compared to controls (P < 0.001, t test). The immunoreactivity of SSTR-2 was also reduced after TNF-alpha treatment. SST-treated cells showed a significant reduction in [3H]thymidine incorporation in a dose-dependent manner. TNF-alpha treatment decreased SST inhibitory potential in cell proliferation.

CONCLUSIONS

HCAECs express SST, SSTR-1, SSTR-2, and SSTR-5, which are all decreased by TNF-alpha treatment. Furthermore, treatment with exogenous SST significantly reduces cell proliferation, and this inhibitory effect is also decreased by TNF-alpha.

Cortical GABA interneurons in neurovascular coupling: relays for subcortical vasoactive pathways

The role of interneurons in neurovascular coupling was investigated by patch-clamp recordings in acute rat cortical slices, followed by single-cell reverse transcriptase-multiplex PCR (RT-mPCR) and confocal observation of biocytin-filled neurons, laminin-stained microvessels, and immunodetection of their afferents by vasoactive subcortical cholinergic (ACh) and serotonergic (5-HT) pathways. The evoked firing of single interneurons in whole-cell recordings was sufficient to either dilate or constrict neighboring microvessels. Identification of vasomotor interneurons by single-cell RT-mPCR revealed expression of vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) or nitric oxide synthase (NOS) in interneurons inducing dilatation and somatostatin (SOM) in those eliciting contraction. Constrictions appeared spatially restricted, maximal at the level of neurite apposition, and were associated with contraction of surrounding smooth muscle cells, providing the first evidence for neural regulation of vascular sphincters. Direct perfusion of VIP and NO donor onto the slices dilated microvessels, whereas neuropeptide Y (NPY) and SOM induced vasoconstriction. RT-PCR analyses revealed expression of specific subtypes of neuropeptide receptors in smooth muscle cells from intracortical microvessels, compatible with the vasomotor responses they elicited. By triple and quadruple immunofluorescence, the identified vasomotor interneurons established contacts with local microvessels and received, albeit to a different extent depending on interneuron subtypes, somatic and dendritic afferents from ACh and 5-HT pathways. Our results demonstrate the ability of specific subsets of cortical GABA interneurons to transmute neuronal signals into vascular responses and further suggest that they could act as local integrators of neurovascular coupling for subcortical vasoactive pathways.

Cortical GABA interneurons in neurovascular coupling: relays for subcortical vasoactive pathways

The role of interneurons in neurovascular coupling was investigated by patch-clamp recordings in acute rat cortical slices, followed by single-cell reverse transcriptase-multiplex PCR (RT-mPCR) and confocal observation of biocytin-filled neurons, laminin-stained microvessels, and immunodetection of their afferents by vasoactive subcortical cholinergic (ACh) and serotonergic (5-HT) pathways. The evoked firing of single interneurons in whole-cell recordings was sufficient to either dilate or constrict neighboring microvessels. Identification of vasomotor interneurons by single-cell RT-mPCR revealed expression of vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) or nitric oxide synthase (NOS) in interneurons inducing dilatation and somatostatin (SOM) in those eliciting contraction. Constrictions appeared spatially restricted, maximal at the level of neurite apposition, and were associated with contraction of surrounding smooth muscle cells, providing the first evidence for neural regulation of vascular sphincters. Direct perfusion of VIP and NO donor onto the slices dilated microvessels, whereas neuropeptide Y (NPY) and SOM induced vasoconstriction. RT-PCR analyses revealed expression of specific subtypes of neuropeptide receptors in smooth muscle cells from intracortical microvessels, compatible with the vasomotor responses they elicited. By triple and quadruple immunofluorescence, the identified vasomotor interneurons established contacts with local microvessels and received, albeit to a different extent depending on interneuron subtypes, somatic and dendritic afferents from ACh and 5-HT pathways. Our results demonstrate the ability of specific subsets of cortical GABA interneurons to transmute neuronal signals into vascular responses and further suggest that they could act as local integrators of neurovascular coupling for subcortical vasoactive pathways.

Inhibition of endothelial proliferation by the somatostatin analogue SOM230

OBJECTIVE

Somatostatin (SST) modulates exocrine and endocrine secretion, proliferation and apoptosis via five G protein-linked receptors (SSTRs 1-5). Long-acting SST analogues such as Octreotide, and the new analogue SOM230, have been developed for the treatment of neuroendocrine tumours. Octreotide has previously been reported to inhibit endothelial proliferation. We wished to determine if SOM230 is a more potent inhibitor of endothelial cell proliferation than Octreotide.

DESIGN

We have determined the expression of SSTRs in proliferating human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) in vitro, and determined their response to the somatostatin analogues SOM230 and Octreotide, following vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) stimulation.

MEASUREMENTS

Quantitative RT-PCR and western blotting were used to determine the expression of SSTRs 1-5 in proliferating HUVECs. These cells were grown in media containing 200 pg/ml VEGF and treated with 10(-11) to 10(-6) M Octreotide or SOM230. The WST-1 assay was then used to determine the effects of these analogues on HUVEC proliferation.

RESULTS

Using quantitative RT-PCR and western blotting, HUVECs were found to express SSTRs 1, 2 and 5. SSTRs 3 and 4 were not detected. Using the WST-1 assay, SOM230 was found to significantly inhibit proliferation by up to 46.0% +/- 9.4% (10(-6)-10(-7) M; P < 0.05), whereas in parallel studies Octreotide failed to inhibit HUVEC proliferation.

CONCLUSIONS

The pan SST analogue SOM230 inhibits proliferation of HUVECs, which are unaffected by Octreotide. SOM230 may thus represent a suitable candidate drug for antiangiogenic therapy.

H9c2 cardiac muscle cells express all somatostatin receptor subtypes

The aim of the present study was to verify the hypothesis that SS receptor subtypes (SSTRs) are expressed by H9c2 cardiac muscle cells. SSTRs expression was investigated by RT-PCR and Western blot analysis at both mRNA and protein level. Our findings demonstrate that H9c2 cells express all SSTR subtypes I-5 (SSTRI-5) at the mRNA and protein level. Thus, H9c2 cells would represent a new model to study the direct biological activities of SS and its analogues at the cardiac level.

Somatostatin analogues: multiple roles in cellular proliferation, neoplasia, and angiogenesis

Angiogenesis, the development of new blood vessels is a crucial process both for tumor growth and metastatic dissemination. Additionally, dysregulation in angiogenesis has been implicated in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular disease, proliferative retinopathy, diabetic nephropathy, and rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The neuropeptide somatostatin has been shown to be a powerful inhibitor of neovascularization in several experimental models. Furthermore, somatostatin receptors (sst) are expressed on endothelial cells; particularly, sst2 has been found to be uniquely up-regulated during the angiogenic switch, from quiescent to proliferative endothelium. The present manuscript reviews the anti-angiogenic activity of somatostatin and its analogues in neoplastic and nonneoplastic disease. The role of sst subtypes particularly sst2 in mediating its angioinhibitory activity is described. Somatostatin agonists may also exert their anti-angiogenic activity indirectly by inhibition of growth factors like vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), and the growth hormone (GH)/insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I) axis or through its immunomodulatory effects. However, the therapeutic utility of somatostatin agonists as anti-angiogenic drugs in these diseases remains confusing because of conflicting results from different studies. More basic research, as well as patient-oriented studies, is required to firmly establish the clinical potential of somatostatin agonists in therapeutic angiogenesis. The currently available somatostatin agonists have high affinity of sst2 with lower affinities for sst3 and sst5. The emergence of novel somatostatin agonists especially bispecific analogues (agonists targeting multiple cellular receptors) and conjugates (synthesized by chemically linking somatostatin analogues with other antineoplastic agents) with improved receptor specificity signify a new generation of anti-angiogenics, which may represent novel strategies in the treatment of neovascularization-related diseases.

Superagonism at the human somatostatin receptor subtype 4

We have discovered a novel compound, J-2156 [(1'S, 2S)-4-amino-N-(1'-carbamoyl-2'-phenylethyl)-2-(4''-methyl-1''-naphthalenesulfonylamino)butanamide], that belongs to a new class of somatostatin receptor ligands. J-2156 binds with nanomolar affinity to the human somatostatin receptor subtype 4 and is over 400-fold subtype-selective against the other somatostatin receptors. When evaluated in a [(35)S]guanosine-5'-O-(3-thio) triphosphate binding assay, J-2156 elicited a response 2 to 3 times as large as that of somatostatin-28 and somatostatin-14. That somatostatin-14 is clearly not a maximally efficacious agonist could be verified by demonstrating that it displays the typical behavior of a partial agonist when tested against J-2156. Increasing concentrations of somatostatin-14 cause a concentration-dependent rightward shift of the dose-response curves for J-2156, without affecting its maximal response. This lack of reduction of the maximal response and the fact that the superior efficacy of J-2156 is detected in membranes argue against desensitization and internalization as possible explanations for the superior efficacy of J-2156. More likely is that somatostatin-14 and J-2156 stabilize distinct receptor conformations that differ in their ability to interact with G-proteins. In a cyclic AMP assay, J-2156, somatostatin-28, and somatostatin-14 all act as full agonists. However, this outcome is most likely due to the presence of a receptor reserve in the cyclic AMP assay since there is a large gain of apparent potency in the cyclic AMP assay and the gain is larger for J-2156 than for somatostatin. We conclude that the endogenous ligands somatostatin-14 and somatostatin-28 do not define maximal agonism on the human somatostatin receptor subtype 4 and that J-2156 represents a so-called superagonist.

Molecular imaging: The latest generation of contrast agents and tissue characterization techniques

Molecular Imaging technologies will have a profound impact on both basic research and clinical imaging in the near future. As the field covers many different specialties and scientific disciplines it is not possible to review all in a single article. In the current article we will turn our attention to those modalities that are either currently in use or in development for the medical imaging clinic.

Pharmacological rationale for the use of somatostatin and analogues in portal hypertension

Somatostatin and its analogue octreotide have been used for two decades to treat oesophageal variceal haemorrhage. The drug was introduced because of its capacity to decrease portal venous pressure without major side effects. In clinical trials assessing the efficacy of somatostatin and long-acting analogues in arresting variceal haemorrhage, conflicting results have been obtained. Furthermore, in haemodynamic studies evaluating the effects of somatostatin and analogues in patients with cirrhosis, divergent effects were observed. The main reason for these differences is probably related to different affinities of the drugs for different somatostatin receptor subtypes. The effects of somatostatin and analogues are mediated via five different G-protein coupled receptors (somatostatin receptor subtypes 1-5), which regulate the activity of ion channels (Ca2+, K+, Na+ and Cl-) and enzymes (adenyl cyclase, phospholipase C, phospholipase A2, phosphoinositide 3-kinase and guanylate cyclase) responsible for the synthesis or degradation of intracellular second messengers including cyclic AMP, inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate, diacylglycerol and cyclic GMP. Despite universal use of somatostatin, the cellular and biochemical mechanisms of its effects in portal hypertension are relatively poorly studied and remain incompletely understood. In this review, we summarize relevant signal transduction of somatostatin and analogues, the haemodynamic effects of the drugs and the possible mechanisms by which these effects are mediated.

Functional mapping of somatostatin receptors in the retina: a review

The peptide somatostatin is one of many neuroactive agents that influence retinal physiology. It is synthesized primarily in a subclass of amacrine cells and believed to function as a neurotransmitter, neuromodulator or trophic factor. The cloning of the somatostatin receptors (sst1-5) in the early nineties provided the appropriate tools for the study of ssts in many tissues, including the retina. In this review, emphasis is given to recent studies that have provided significant information on the functional role of somatostatin in retinal circuitry and the retinal pigment epithelium. The important role of somatostatin in retinal disease therapeutics is also discussed.

Octreotide acts as an antitumor angiogenesis compound and suppresses tumor growth in nude mice bearing human hepatocellular carcinoma xenografts

PURPOSE

To investigate the effect of octreotide on angiogenesis induced by human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and to evaluate whether octreotide can suppress tumor growth in nude mice bearing human HCC xenografts through inhibition of angiogenesis.

METHODS

Using MTT assay, invasion assay, migration assay, and Matrigel assay, the effects of octreotide on endothelial cells stimulated by vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) were evaluated in vitro. MTT assay was also used to investigate the effects of octreotide on human HCC cells with high (MHCC97-H) and low (MHCC97-L) metastatic potential that were established from the animal model of human HCC LCI-D20 in nude mice. The expression of somatostatin receptor (SSTR) subtypes in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs), MHCC97-H, and MHCC97-L cells was detected by RT-PCR analysis. An LCI-D20 corneal micropocket model in nude mice was used to evaluate the effect of octreotide on angiogenesis induced by human HCC in vivo. Male nude mice were subcutaneously implanted with LCI-D20 tumor tissues for the tumor xenograft studies. Microvessel density was analyzed in CD34-stained tumor sections by the immunohistochemical SP method.

RESULTS

In vitro, octreotide inhibited the proliferation, invasion, and differentiation of HUVECs elicited by VEGF. RT-PCR analysis demonstrated that HUVECs expressed the somatostatin receptor subtype SSTR3. In vivo, octreotide was sufficiently potent to suppress nude mice corneal neovascularization induced by tumor tissues from LCI-D20. Systemic administrations of octreotide produced a significant suppression of the growth of LCI-D20. In cell culture, MHCC97-H and MHCC97-L cells were insensitive to octreotide at concentrations that significantly inhibited endothelial cells proliferation. The HCC cells used did not express any known SSTRs. Immunohistochemical studies of tumor tissues revealed decreased microvessel density in octreotide-treated animals as compared with controls.

CONCLUSIONS

The present study demonstrates that the somatostatin analogue octreotide is a potent antitumor angiogenesis compound and the antiproliferative effect of octreotide on tumor growth in nude mice bearing HCC xenografts may be mediated, at least in part, by its suppressive effect on blood vessel supply. The somatostatin analogue octreotide might provide a useful and relatively nontoxic adjuvant therapy in the treatment of HCC.

Nuclear medicine applications in molecular imaging

With the emergence of the new field of molecular imaging, there is an increasing demand for development of sensitive and safe novel imaging agents that can be rapidly translated from small animal models into patients. Nuclear medicine and positron emission tomography (PET) techniques have the ability to detect and serially monitor a variety of biologic and pathophysiologic processes, usually with tracer quantities of radiolabeled peptides, drugs, and other molecules at doses free of pharmacologic side effects, unlike the current generation of intravenous agents required for magnetic resonance (MR) and computed tomography (CT) scanning. In this article, we will review a representative sampling of the wide array of radiopharmaceuticals developed specifically for nuclear medicine radionuclide imaging that have been approved for clinical use, and those in pre-clinical trials. We will also review the existing strategies used to select the appropriate biologic markers and targets for radionuclide labeling that have been employed in the development of novel radiotracers and the imaging of small animals with new microSPECT (single photon emission computed tomography) technologies.

Antiangiogenic effects of somatostatin analogues

Inhibition of angiogenesis has become a target for antineoplastic therapy and for treatment of retinal neovascularization. The presence of somatostatin receptors on tumour cells and on the proliferating vascular endothelium has led to several in vitro and in vivo studies to investigate the antiproliferative and antiangiogenic effects of somatostatin analogues. Currently available data suggest that somatostatin analogues might inhibit angiogenesis directly through somatostatin receptors present on endothelial cells and also indirectly through the inhibition of growth factor secretion such as IGF-I and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and reducing monocyte chemotaxis. However, beneficial effects on inhibition of neovascularization have been questioned by some studies. More work is therefore required to firmly establish the role of somatostatin analogues as potential antiangiogenic therapy. The currently available somatostatin analogues have high affinity for somatostatin receptor subtype 2 (sst2) and, to a lesser extent, sst5 and sst3. However, because vascular endothelial cells express several types of somatostatin receptors, it will be important to investigate somatostatin analogues with different receptor subtype affinities, which might increase the spectrum of available therapy for tumours.