Angiotensin II receptor subtypes in rat brain and peripheral tissues

Prostaglandin E2 Induces Long-Lasting Inhibition of Noradrenergic Neurons in the Locus Coeruleus and Moderates the Behavioral Response to Stressors

Neuronal activity is modulated not only by inputs from other neurons but also by various factors, such as bioactive substances. Noradrenergic (NA) neurons in the locus coeruleus (LC-NA neurons) are involved in diverse physiological functions, including sleep/wakefulness and stress responses. Previous studies have identified various substances and receptors that modulate LC-NA neuronal activity through techniques including electrophysiology, calcium imaging, and single-cell RNA sequencing. However, many substances with unknown physiological significance have been overlooked. Here, we established an efficient screening method for identifying substances that modulate LC-NA neuronal activity through intracellular calcium ([Ca2+]i) imaging using brain slices. Using both sexes of mice, we screened 53 bioactive substances, and identified five novel substances: gastrin-releasing peptide, neuromedin U, and angiotensin II, which increase [Ca2+]i, and pancreatic polypeptide and prostaglandin D2, which decrease [Ca2+]i Among them, neuromedin U induced the greatest response in female mice. In terms of the duration of [Ca2+]i change, we focused on prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), since it induces a long-lasting decrease in [Ca2+]i via the EP3 receptor. Conditional knock-out of the receptor in LC-NA neurons resulted in increased depression-like behavior, prolonged wakefulness in the dark period, and increased [Ca2+]i after stress exposure. Our results demonstrate the effectiveness of our screening method for identifying substances that modulate a specific neuronal population in an unbiased manner and suggest that stress-induced prostaglandin E2 can suppress LC-NA neuronal activity to moderate the behavioral response to stressors. Our screening method will contribute to uncovering previously unknown physiological functions of uncharacterized bioactive substances in specific neuronal populations.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Bioactive substances modulate the activity of specific neuronal populations. However, since only a limited number of substances with predicted effects have been investigated, many substances that may modulate neuronal activity have gone unrecognized. Here, we established an unbiased method for identifying modulatory substances by measuring the intracellular calcium signal, which reflects neuronal activity. We examined noradrenergic (NA) neurons in the locus coeruleus (LC-NA neurons), which are involved in diverse physiological functions. We identified five novel substances that modulate LC-NA neuronal activity. We also found that stress-induced prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) may suppress LC-NA neuronal activity and influence behavioral outcomes. Our screening method will help uncover previously overlooked functions of bioactive substances and provide insight into unrecognized roles of specific neuronal populations.

Collicular Hyperactivation in Patients with COVID-19: A New Finding on Brain MRI and PET/CT

Hyperactivation of the colliculi has been observed in some patients with coronavirus disease 2019.

PlaMoM: a comprehensive database compiles plant mobile macromolecules

In plants, various phloem-mobile macromolecules including noncoding RNAs, mRNAs and proteins are suggested to act as important long-distance signals in regulating crucial physiological and morphological transition processes such as flowering, plant growth and stress responses. Given recent advances in high-throughput sequencing technologies, numerous mobile macromolecules have been identified in diverse plant species from different plant families. However, most of the identified mobile macromolecules are not annotated in current versions of species-specific databases and are only available as non-searchable datasheets. To facilitate study of the mobile signaling macromolecules, we compiled the PlaMoM (Plant Mobile Macromolecules) database, a resource that provides convenient and interactive search tools allowing users to retrieve, to analyze and also to predict mobile RNAs/proteins. Each entry in the PlaMoM contains detailed information such as nucleotide/amino acid sequences, ortholog partners, related experiments, gene functions and literature. For the model plant Arabidopsis thaliana, protein–protein interactions of mobile transcripts are presented as interactive molecular networks. Furthermore, PlaMoM provides a built-in tool to identify potential RNA mobility signals such as tRNA-like structures. The current version of PlaMoM compiles a total of 17 991 mobile macromolecules from 14 plant species/ecotypes from published data and literature. PlaMoM is available at http://www.systembioinfo.org/plamom/.

Immunohistochemical Localization of AT1a, AT1b, and AT2 Angiotensin II Receptor Subtypes in the Rat Adrenal, Pituitary, and Brain with a Perspective Commentary

Angiotensin II increases blood pressure and stimulates thirst and sodium appetite in the brain. It also stimulates secretion of aldosterone from the adrenal zona glomerulosa and epinephrine from the adrenal medulla. The rat has 3 subtypes of angiotensin II receptors: AT1a, AT1b, and AT2. mRNAs for all three subtypes occur in the adrenal and brain. To immunohistochemically differentiate these receptor subtypes, rabbits were immunized with C-terminal fragments of these subtypes to generate receptor subtype-specific antibodies. Immunofluorescence revealed AT1a and AT2 receptors in adrenal zona glomerulosa and medulla. AT1b immunofluorescence was present in the zona glomerulosa, but not the medulla. Ultrastructural immunogold labeling for the AT1a receptor in glomerulosa and medullary cells localized it to plasma membrane, endocytic vesicles, multivesicular bodies, and the nucleus. AT1b and AT2, but not AT1a, immunofluorescence was observed in the anterior pituitary. Stellate cells were AT1b positive while ovoid cells were AT2 positive. In the brain, neurons were AT1a, AT1b, and AT2 positive, but glia was only AT1b positive. Highest levels of AT1a, AT1b, and AT2 receptor immunofluorescence were in the subfornical organ, median eminence, area postrema, paraventricular nucleus, and solitary tract nucleus. These studies complement those employing different techniques to characterize Ang II receptors.

Distinct effects of intravascular and extravascular angiotensin II on cerebrovascular circulation of newborn pigs

Angiotensin II (AngII) is important in regulation of vascular resistance and control of blood flow among organs and tissues. The effect of AngII on the cerebral microvasculature may be mediated or altered by endothelial-derived signals. The aim of this study was to test the hypothesis that blood AngII dilates neonatal pial arterioles via an endothelial-dependent mechanism but brain AngII can constrict pial arterioles by activating smooth muscle AT1 receptors. Studies used anesthetized newborn pigs with surgically implanted closed cranial windows. AngII was given either by infusion into the carotid artery ipsilateral to the cranial window or topically. Intracarotid infusion of AngII dilated pial arterioles. The dilation was blocked by systemic administration of the AT1-receptor antagonist, losartan, but unaffected by topical losartan. Topical AngII also caused dilation, but this dilation was converted to constriction by topical losartan. In piglets pretreated with the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor, enalapril, topical AngII constricted, rather than dilated, pial arterioles. In enalapril-treated piglets, light/dye endothelial injury blocked dilation to intracarotid AngII but did not affect constriction to topical AngII. Either indomethacin or l-nitroarginine methyl ester blocked the dilation to intraluminal AngII, but neither affected constriction to topical AngII. Chromium mesoporphyrin, that inhibits heme oxygenase, did not affect responses to either topical or intravascular AngII. These data are consistent with the hypotheses that: (a) circulating AngII dilates pial arterioles via endothelial AT(1) receptor-derived relaxing factors, notably prostanoids and nitric oxide; (b) direct AT(1) receptor activation on the brain side of the blood-brain barrier by AngII causes AT(1) receptor-mediated constriction that can mask underlying AT(1) receptor-independent dilation when ACE is inhibited. Clinical manipulation of the renin-angiotensin system will have disparate actions on cerebral circulation depending on the functional integrity of the intima and ACE.

Angiotensin depolarizes parvocellular neurons in paraventricular nucleus through modulation of putative nonselective cationic and potassium conductances

Neurosecretory parvocellular neurons in the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus (PVN) exercise considerable influence over the adenohypophysis and thus play a critical role in neuroendocrine regulation. ANG II has been demonstrated to act as a neurotransmitter in PVN, exerting significant impact on neuronal excitability and also influencing corticotrophin-releasing hormone secretion from the median eminence and, therefore, release of ACTH from the pituitary. We have used whole cell patch-clamp techniques in hypothalamic slices to examine the effects of ANG II on the excitability of neurosecretory parvocellular neurons. ANG II application resulted in a dose-dependent depolarization of neurosecretory neurons, a response that was maintained in tetrodotoxin (TTX), suggesting a direct mechanism of action. The depolarizing actions of this peptide were abolished by losartan, demonstrating these effects are AT(1) receptor mediated. Voltage-clamp analysis using slow voltage ramps revealed that ANG II activates a voltage-independent conductance with a reversal potential of -37.8 +/- 3.8 mV, suggesting ANG II effects on a nonselective cationic current. Further, a sustained potassium current characteristic of I(K) was significantly reduced (29.1 +/- 4.7%) by ANG II. These studies identify multiple postsynaptic modulatory sites through which ANG II can influence the excitability of neurosecretory parvocellular PVN neurons and, as a consequence of such actions, control hormonal secretion from the anterior pituitary.

Interaction between paraventricular nucleus and medial septal area on the renal effects induced by adrenaline

The aim of the present study was to analyze the role of alpha1, alpha2-adrenoceptors, and the effects of losartan and PD123319 (selective ligands of the AT1 and AT2 angiotensin receptors, respectively) injected into the paraventricular nucleus (PVN) on the diuresis, natriuresis, and kaliuresis induced by administration of adrenaline into the medial septal area (MSA). Male Holtzman rats with a stainless steel cannula implanted into the MSA and bilaterally into the PVN were used. The administration of adrenaline into the MSA increased in a dose-dependent manner the urine, sodium, and potassium excretions. The previous administration of prazosin (an alpha1-adrenoceptor antagonist) injected into the PVN abolished the above effects of adrenaline, whereas yohimbine (an alpha2-adrenoceptor antagonist) doesn't affect the diuresis, natriuresis, and kaliuresis induced by adrenaline. Pretreatment with losartan into the PVN decreased in a dose-dependent manner the urine, sodium, and potassium excretions induced by MSA administration of adrenaline (50 ng), while PVN PD123319 was without effect. These results indicate that urinary and electrolyte excretion effects induced by adrenaline into the MSA are mediated primarily by PVN AT1 receptors. However, the doses of losartan were more effective when combined with the doses of PD123319 than given alone, suggesting that the urinary, natriuretic, and kaliuretic effects of MSA adrenaline may involve activation of multiple angiotensin II receptors subtypes into the PVN.

ANG II-induced excitation of paraventricular nucleus magnocellular neurons: a role for glutamate interneurons

The hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus (PVN) plays a critical role in cardiovascular and neuroendocrine regulation. ANG II (ANG) acts throughout the periphery in the maintenance of fluid-electrolyte homeostasis and has also been demonstrated to act as a neurotransmitter in PVN exerting considerable influence on neuronal excitability in this nucleus. The mechanisms underlying the ANG-mediated excitation of PVN magnocellular neurons have yet to be determined. We have used whole cell patch-clamp techniques in hypothalamic slices to examine the effects of ANG on magnocellular neurons. Application of ANG resulted in a depolarization of magnocellular neurons, a response that was abolished in TTX, suggesting an indirect mechanism of action. Interestingly, ANG also increased the frequency of excitatory postsynaptic potentials/currents in magnocellular neurons, an effect that was abolished after application of the glutamate antagonist kynurenic acid. ANG was without effect on the amplitude of excitatory postsynaptic currents, suggesting a presynaptic action on an excitatory interneuron within PVN. The ANG-induced depolarization was shown to be sensitive to kynurenic acid, revealing the requisite role of glutamate in mediating the ANG-induced excitation of magnocellular neurons. These observations indicate that the ANGergic excitation of magnocellular PVN neurons are dependent on an increase in glutamatergic input and thus highlight the importance of a glutamate interneuron in mediating the effects of this neurotransmitter.

Effects of subtypes of adrenergic and angiotensinergic antagonists on the water and sodium intake induced by adrenaline injected into the paraventricular nucleus

The present experiments were conducted to investigate the role of the alpha(1A)-, alpha(1B)-, beta(1)-, beta(2)-adrenoceptors, and the effects of losartan and CGP42112A (selective ligands of the AT(1) and AT(2) angiotensin receptors, respectively) on the water and sodium intake elicited by paraventricular nucleus (PVN) injection of adrenaline. Male Holtzman rats with a stainless steel cannula implanted into the PVN were used. The ingestion of water and sodium was determined in separate groups submitted to water deprivation or sodium depletion with the diuretic furosemide (20 mg/rat). 5-Methylurapidil (an alpha(1A)-adrenergic antagonist) and ICI-118,551 (a beta(2)-adrenergic antagonist) injected into the PVN produced a dose-dependent increase, whereas cyclazosin (an alpha(1B)-adrenergic antagonist) and atenolol (a beta(1)-adrenergic antagonist) do not affect the inhibitory effect of water intake induced by adrenaline. On the other hand, the PVN administration of adrenaline increased the sodium intake in a dose-dependent manner. Previous injection of the alpha(1A) and beta(1) antagonists decreased, whereas injection of the alpha(1B) and beta(2) antagonists increased the salt intake induced by adrenaline. In rats with several doses of adrenaline into PVN, the previous administration of losartan increased in a dose-dependent manner the inhibitory effect of adrenaline and decreased the salt intake induced by adrenaline, while PVN CGP42112A was without effect. These results indicate that both appetites are mediated primarily by brain AT(1) receptors. However, the doses of losartan were more effective when combined with the doses of CGP42112A than given alone p<0.05, suggesting that the water and salt intake effects of PVN adrenaline may involve activation of multiple angiotensin II (ANG II) receptors subtypes.

Responses to GABA-A receptor blockade in the hypothalamic PVN are attenuated by local AT1 receptor antagonism

Blockade of GABA-A receptors in the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus (PVN) has been repeatedly shown to increase arterial blood pressure (ABP), heart rate (HR), and sympathetic nerve activity (SNA), but the mechanism(s) that underlies this response has not been determined. Here, we tested whether full expression of the response requires activation of local ANG II AT1 receptors. ABP, HR, and renal SNA responses to PVN microinjection of bicuculline methobromide (BIC; 0.1 nmol) were recorded before and after microinjection of vehicle (saline); losartan (or L-158809), to block local AT1 receptors; or PD123319, to block AT2 receptors. After PVN microinjection of vehicle or PD123319 (10 nmol), BIC significantly (P < 0.05) increased mean arterial pressure (MAP), HR, and renal SNA. However, PVN microinjection of 2 and 20 nmol of losartan dose dependently reduced responses to PVN-injected BIC, with the 20-nmol dose nearly abolishing MAP (P < 0.005), HR (P < 0.05), and renal SNA (P < 0.005) responses. Another AT1 receptor antagonist, L-158809 (10 nmol), produced similar effects. Neither losartan nor L-158809 altered baseline parameters. Responses to PVN injection of BIC were unchanged by losartan (20 nmol) given intravenously or into the PVN on the opposite side. MAP, HR, and renal SNA responses to PVN microinjection of l-glutamate (10 nmol) were unaffected by PVN injection of losartan (20 nmol), indicating that effects of losartan were not due to nonspecific depression of neuronal excitability. We conclude that pressor, tachycardic, and renal sympathoexcitatory responses to acute blockade of GABA-A receptors in the PVN depend on activation of local AT1 receptors.

Angiotensin II activates a nitric-oxide-driven inhibitory feedback in the rat paraventricular nucleus

The hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus (PVN) has been shown to play major obligatory roles in autonomic and neuroendocrine regulation. Angiotensin II (ANG) acts as a neurotransmitter regulating the excitability of magnocellular neurons in this nucleus. We report here that ANG also activates a nitric-oxide-mediated negative feedback loop in the PVN that acts to regulate the functional output of magnocellular neurons. Thus in addition to its depolarizing actions on magnocellular neurons, ANG application results in an increase in the frequency of inhibitory postsynaptic potentials in a population of these neurons without effect on the amplitude of these events. ANG was also without significant effect on the mean frequency or amplitude of mini synaptic currents analyzed in voltage-clamp experiments. This increase in inhibitory input after ANG can be abolished by the nitric oxide synthase inhibitor Nomega-nitro-l-arginine methylester, demonstrating a requisite role for nitric oxide in the activation of this pathway. The depolarization of magnocellular neurons that show increased inhibitory postsynaptic potential (IPSP) frequency in response to ANG is significantly smaller than that observed in neurons in which IPSPs frequency was unaffected (3.2 +/- 1.1 vs. 8.0 +/- 0.5 mV, P < 0.05). Correspondingly, after nitric oxide synthase inhibition, the depolarizing effects of ANG on magnocellular neurons are augmented (2.0 +/- 0.7 vs. 6.7 +/- 0.7 mV, P < 0.05). The depolarization was also enhanced in the presence of the GABAergic antagonist bicuculline (1.9 +/- 1.2 vs. 11.9 +/- 2.3, P < 0.001). These data demonstrate that there exists within the PVN an intrinsic negative feedback loop that modulates neuronal excitability in response to peptidergic excitation.

Subcellular identification of angiotensin I/II- and angiotensin II (AT1)-receptor-immunoreactivity in the central nervous system of rats

To gain insight into generating and transport mechanisms of angiotensin (ANG) in the brain the study was focused on the subcellular localization of ANG II and its AT(1)-receptors in the hypothalamus of rats. The present paper demonstrates ANG II- and AT(1)-receptor-immunolabelling at brain parenchyma vessels and at glial and neuronal structures in the perivascular region. Further, ANG II- and AT(1)-receptor-immunoreactivity is shown at plasma membranes and intracellular structures in the ependyma of the third ventricle. Based upon a conventional horseradish peroxidase technique, combined with the classical substrate 3,3'-diaminobenzidine, a procedure is introduced that will be useful with a variety of antibodies used on glutar- and paraformaldehyde-fixed brain tissue. This technique enables a fast correlation between light and electron microscopical results and might also provide an attractive alternative to colloidal gold-labelling and silver-intensification techniques.

ANG II AT(1) and AT(2) receptors in developing kidney of normal microswine

To identify an appropriate model of human renin-angiotensin system (RAS) involvement in fetal origins of adult disease, we quantitated renal ANG II AT(1) and AT(2) receptors (AT1R and AT2R, respectively) in fetal (90-day gestation, n = 14), neonatal (3-wk, n = 5), and adult (6-mo, n = 8) microswine by autoradiography ((125)I-labeled [Sar(1)Ile(8)]ANG II+cold CGP-42112 for AT1R, (125)I-CGP-42112 for AT2R) and by whole kidney radioligand binding. The developmental pattern of renal AT1R in microswine, like many species, exhibited a 10-fold increase postnatally (P < 0.001), with maximal postnatal density in glomeruli and lower density AT1R in extraglomerular cortical and outer medullary sites. With aging, postnatal AT1R glomerular profiles increased in size (P < 0.001) and fractional area occupied (P < 0.04), with no change in the number per unit area. Cortical levels of AT2R by autoradiography fell with age from congruent with 5,000 fmol/g in fetal kidneys to congruent with 60 and 20% of fetal levels in neonatal and adult cortex, respectively (P < 0.0001). The pattern of AT2R binding in postnatal pig kidney mimicked that described in human and simian, but not rodent, species: dense AT2R confined to discrete cortical structures, including pre- and juxtaglomerular, but not intraglomerular, vasculature. Our results provide a quantitative assessment of ANG II receptors in developing pig kidney and document the concordance of pigs and primates in developmental regulation of renal AT1R and AT2R.

Heart rate variability and baroreflex function in AT2 receptor-disrupted mice

We adapted telemetry and sequence analysis employed in humans to mice and measured heart rate variability and the spontaneous baroreflex sensitivity in angiotensin II type 2 (AT2) receptor-deleted (AT2 -/-) and wild-type (AT2 +/+) mice with either deoxycorticosterone acetate (DOCA)-salt hypertension or N(omega)-nitro-L-arginine methylester hydrochloride (L-NAME) hypertension. Mean arterial pressure leveled during the day at 101+/-1 mm Hg and during the night at 109+/-1 mm Hg in AT2 receptor-deleted mice, compared with 98+/-2 mm Hg (day) and 104+/-2 mm Hg (night) in wild-type mice. Mean arterial pressure increased in AT2 receptor-deleted mice with L-NAME to 114+/-1 mm Hg (day) and 121+/-1 mm Hg (night), compared with 105+/-2 mm Hg (day) and 111+/-2 mm Hg (night), respectively. DOCA-salt also increased day and night blood pressures in AT2 receptor-deleted mice to a greater degree than in wild-type mice. Heart rate variability in the time and frequency domain was not different between AT2 receptor-deleted mice and AT2 receptor-deleted mice at baseline. Systolic blood pressure variability in the low frequency band was lower in AT2 receptor-deleted mice (0.6+/-0.1 ms2 versus 3.9+/-1.3 ms2) than in wild-type mice. Baroreceptor-heart rate reflex sensitivity was significantly increased in AT2 receptor-deleted mice compared with wild-type mice (3.4+/-0.6 versus 2.1+/-0.5 ms/mm Hg). These differences remained after DOCA-salt and L-NAME treatments. We conclude that activation of the AT2 receptor impairs arterial baroreceptor reflex function, probably by a central action. These data support the existence of an inhibitory central effect of the AT2 receptor on baroreflex function.

Central interactions between angiotensin II and PGD(2) in the regulation of vasopressin and oxytocin secretion in dehydrated rats

Brain-derived angiotensin II (ANG II) and prostaglandins have important roles in the regulation of body fluid and blood pressure homeostasis. In the present studies we investigated the central interactions between these two neurochemical products in regulating the hypothalamo-neurohypophysial system during dehydration. Intracerebroventricular (icv) administration of prostaglandin D(2) (PGD(2); 20 microg/5 microl) to conscious adult male Sprague-Dawley rats deprived of water for 24 h did not alter significantly the already elevated plasma levels of vasopressin or oxytocin. When PGD(2) was administered in combination with losartan, an antagonist of ANG II AT(1)-receptor subtype, however, concentrations of both hormones in plasma became further elevated. Icv administration of ANG II (50 ng/5 microl) increased further the enhanced plasma levels of vasopressin and oxytocin, as expected. Pretreatment with indomethacin (200 microg/5 microl; icv), an inhibitor of cyclo-oxygenase, significantly attenuated the ANG II-induced increase in oxytocin secretion only. Independent of the presence of ANG II, however, indomethacin decreased plasma levels of vasopressin, but not oxytocin. These results indicate that a prostaglandin is required for the stimulated release of vasopressin during dehydration and that the elevation of oxytocin secretion in response to ANG II depends largely on activation of cyclo-oxygenase and production of prostaglandins. The oxytocin response to exogenously administered PGD(2), however, can be negatively modulated by a mechanism dependent upon ANG II AT(1) receptors.

Angiotensin II does not mediate the pressor response to PGD2 (icv)

The objective of the present studies was to examine the interaction between brain-derived angiotensin II (Ang II) and prostaglandins in order to identify the mechanisms mediating the pressor response produced by these neuroregulators. Inhibiting synthesis of prostaglandins with indomethacin [indocin, 200 microg/ 5 microl artificial cerebrospinal fluid (aCSF)], administered intracerebroventricularly (icv) to conscious adult male Sprague-Dawley rats, reduced blood pressure to values below basal levels. When injected prior to Ang II (50 ng/5 microl aCSF; icv), indomethacin completely abolished the pressor response induced by the octapeptide. The increase in blood pressure produced by prostaglandin D(2) (PGD(2), 20 microg/5 microl; icv), the most prominent prostaglandin in the rat brain, however, was not prevented by losartan (25 microg/5 microl; icv), an Ang II AT(1)-receptor antagonist. Collectively, these results indicate that prostaglandins produced tonically in the brain maintain resting arterial blood pressure and that the pressor action of Ang II is dependent on de novo synthesis of a prostaglandin.

Local angiotensin II and transforming growth factor-beta1 in renal fibrosis of rats

Studies have demonstrated that local angiotensin II (Ang II) generation is enhanced in repairing kidney and that ACE inhibition or AT(1) receptor blockade attenuates renal fibrosis. The localization of ACE and Ang II receptors and their relationship to collagen synthesis in the injured kidney, however, remain uncertain. Using a rat model of renal injury with subsequent fibrosis created with chronic elevations in circulating aldosterone (ALDO), we examined the distribution and binding density of ACE and Ang II receptors in repairing kidneys, as well as their anatomic relationship to transforming growth factor-beta1 (TGF-beta1) mRNA, type I collagen mRNA, collagen accumulation, and myofibroblasts. Two groups of animals (n=7 in each group) were studied: (1) normal rats served as controls, and (2) uninephrectomized rats received ALDO (0.75 microg/h SC) and 1% NaCl in drinking water for 6 weeks. Compared with control rats, in ALDO-treated rats we found (1) significantly (P<0.01) increased blood pressure, reduced plasma renin activity, and increased plasma creatinine levels, (2) diffuse fibrosis in both renal cortex and medulla, (3) abundant myofibroblasts at these sites of fibrosis, (4) significantly increased (P<0.01) binding density of ACE and Ang II receptors (60% AT(1), 40% AT(2)) at the sites of fibrosis, and (5) markedly increased (P<0.01) expression of TGF-beta1 and type I collagen mRNAs at these same sites. Thus, in this rat model of renal repair, the enhanced expression of ACE, Ang II receptors, and TGF-beta1 is associated with renal fibrosis. Ang II generated at the sites of repair appears to have autocrine/paracrine functions in the regulation of renal fibrous tissue formation alone or through its stimulation of TGF-beta1 synthesis.

Differential effects of angiotensin II in the nucleus tractus solitarii of the rat--plausible neuronal mechanism

1. Cellular mechanisms of the actions of angiotensin II (ANGII) within the nucleus of the solitary tract (NTS) were studied using rat brain slices in 78 neurones recorded in the whole-cell configuration. Twenty-nine per cent of cells had an on-going activity and with only one exception these cells responded to tractus solitarii (TS) stimulation with a monophasic excitatory postsynaptic potential (EPSP). In approximately half of the silent cells, TS stimulation evoked an EPSP-inhibitory postsynaptic potential (IPSP) complex. 2. The ANGII (200 or 1000 nM) effect on TS-evoked EPSPs depended on the cell subpopulation. In cells with on-going activity, ANGII (1000 nM) increased evoked EPSP amplitude by +70 +/- 13 % (means +/- s.e.m., n = 5) but reduced it (200 and 1000 nM) in silent cells where both evoked EPSPs and IPSPs were present. ANGII either increased TS-evoked IPSP conductances in cells where they were detectable or revealed an evoked IPSP (200 nM ANGII: IPSP conductance increased from 70 +/- 29 to 241 +/- 34 pS; n = 11). All ANGII effects were prevented by the ANGII type 1 (AT1) receptor blocker losartan. Since 200 nM ANGII did not increase responses to iontophoretically applied GABA, the effect of ANGII on TS-evoked IPSPs may occur presynaptically. 3. The neurokinin type 1 (NK1) receptor antagonist CP-99,994 (5 microM) blocked the ANGII-induced increase in EPSPs but had no effect on TS-evoked IPSP potentiation by ANGII. 4. Thus, ANGII can potentiate both inhibitory and excitatory synaptic transmission within different subpopulations of NTS neurones. Potentiation of evoked EPSPs, but not of IPSPs, involves activation of NK1 receptors. The balance of these actions of ANGII could be reflex specific: for the baroreflex circuitry the inhibitory action might predominate while the peripheral chemoreceptor reflex may be facilitated due to enhanced excitatory transmission.

Angiotensin II acts at AT1 receptors in the nucleus of the solitary tract to attenuate the baroreceptor reflex

The object of the current study was to determine if ANG II acts at type 1 (AT1) or type 2 (AT2) receptors in the nucleus of the solitary tract (NTS) to reduce baroreceptor reflex control of renal sympathetic nerve activity (RSNA) and heart rate (HR). Experiments were carried out in urethan-anesthetized Wistar-Kyoto (WKY) and spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR). Reflex changes in RSNA and HR were elicited by intravenous infusion of either phenylephrine or sodium nitroprusside before and after bilateral microinjection of CV-11974 (AT1 receptor antagonist, 10 pmol), PD-123319 (AT2 receptor antagonist, 100 pmol), or artificial cerebrospinal fluid (aCSF, 50 nl) in the NTS. Mean arterial pressure (MAP)-RSNA and MAP-HR data were fit to logistic functions to analyze the baroreceptor reflex. Baroreceptor reflex sensitivities for RSNA and HR were attenuated in SHR compared with those in WKY rats. Bilateral injection of CV-11974, PD-123319, or aCSF in the NTS of either strain had no effect on baseline arterial pressure, HR, or RSNA. However, CV-11974 injected in the NTS increased significantly (P < 0.01) the sensitivities for baroreceptor reflex control of RSNA and HR in SHR and WKY rats. Neither PD-123319 nor aCSF altered baroreceptor reflex control of RSNA and HR in either SHR or WKY rats. These results demonstrate that endogenous ANG II acts at AT1 receptors of the NTS to attenuate the baroreceptor reflex in SHR as well as in WKY rats.

The hyperglycemia induced by angiotensin II in rats is mediated by AT1 receptors

We have shown that the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) is involved in glucose homeostasis during acute hemorrhage. Since almost all of the physiological actions described for angiotensin II were mediated by AT1 receptors, the present experiments were designed to determine the participation of AT1 receptors in the hyperglycemic action of angiotensin II in freely moving rats. The animals were divided into two experimental groups: 1) animals submitted to intravenous administration of angiotensin II (0.96 nmol/100 g body weight) which caused a rapid increase in plasma glucose reaching the highest values at 5 min after the injection (33% of the initial values, P < 0.01), and 2) animals submitted to intravenous administration of DuP-753 (losartan), a non-peptide antagonist of angiotensin II with AT1-receptor type specificity (1.63 mumol/100 g body weight as a bolus, i.v., plus a 30-min infusion of 0.018 mumol 100 g body weight-1 min-1 before the injection of angiotensin II), which completely blocked the hyperglycemic response to angiotensin II (P < 0.01). This inhibitory effect on glycemia was already demonstrable 5 min (8.9 +/- 0.28 mM, angiotensin II, N = 9 vs 6.4 +/- 0.22 mM, losartan plus angiotensin II, N = 11) after angiotensin II injection and persisted throughout the 30-min experiment. Controls were treated with the same volume of saline solution (0.15 M NaCl). These data demonstrate that the angiotensin II receptors involved in the direct and indirect hyperglycemic actions of angiotensin II are mainly of the AT1-type.

Pituitary-dependent expression of the testicular angiotensin II receptor and its subtypes in rats

Angiotensin II (AT2) has been implicated in the growth and/or differentiation of its target tissues. In the present study, testicular AT2 receptor and its subtypes in hypophysectomized rats were examined using quantitative in vitro autoradiography and Northern blot analysis in an attempt to determine possible involvement of pituitary hormones in their expression. Prepubescent (3 weeks of age) male Sprague-Dawley rats underwent hypophysectomy or sham operation. From 10 days thereafter, they were treated with vehicle, growth hormone, human chorionic gonadotrophin or human menopausal gonadotrophin for 10 days. Testicular AT2 receptors were labelled with 125I-[Sar1,Ile8] AT2 and differentiated into its subtypes (AT1 and FAT2) according to their susceptibility to AT1 (losartan, 5 microM) and AT2 (CGP42112B, 1 microM) antagonists. Hypophysectomy led to a marked increase in AT2 receptor concentration (sham-operated rats: 0.7 +/- 0.2 fmol/mg protein, hypophysectomized rats: 2.5 +/- 0.6 fmol/mg protein, mean +/- SEM, n = 11-12, p < 0.01) with predominant occurrence of AT1 receptors. Both human chorionic gonadotrophin and human menopausal gonadotrophin decreased testicular AT2 receptor concentration, whereas growth hormone did not affect AT2 receptor expression. Northern blot analysis revealed both testicular AT1 and AT2 receptor mRNA expression to be significantly increased after hypophysectomy and reduced by gonadotrophin treatment. These results suggest that the expression of testicular AT2 receptors is regulated by pituitary gonadotrophins and that AT2 may play a role in testicular growth and/or differentiation.

Endogenous ANG II supports lumbar sympathetic activity in conscious sodium-deprived rats: role of area postrema

This study tests the hypothesis that the area postrema (AP) is necessary for endogenous ANG II to chronically maintain lumbar sympathetic nerve activity (LSNA) and heart rate (HR) in conscious sodium-deprived rats. The effect of the ANG II type 1-receptor antagonist, losartan, on LSNA and HR was determined in rats that were either AP lesioned (APX) or sham lesioned. The sham rats were divided into groups, with (SFR) or without (SAL) food restriction, to control for the decreased food intake of APX rats. Before losartan, basal mean arterial pressure (MAP), HR, and baroreflex control of LSNA and HR were similar between groups, with the exception of lower maximal reflex LSNA and higher maximal gain of the HR-MAP curve in APX rats. In all groups, losartan similarly shifted (P < 0.01) the LSNA-MAP curve to the left without altering maximal gain. Losartan also decreased (P < 0.05) minimal LSNA in all groups, and suppressed (P < 0.01) maximal LSNA (% of control) in SFR (240 +/- 13 to 205 +/- 15) and SAL (231 +/- 21 to 197 +/- 26) but not APX (193 +/- 10 to 185 +/- 8) rats. In general, losartan similarly shifted the HR-MAP curve to a lower MAP in all groups. The results suggest that the AP is not necessary for endogenous ANG II to chronically support LSNA and HR at basal and elevated MAP levels in sodium-deprived rats. However, the AP is required for endogenous ANG II to increase maximal reflex LSNA at low MAP levels.

Hypotensive effect of ZD7155, an angiotensin II receptor antagonist, parallels receptor occupancy in two-kidney, one-clip Goldblatt hypertensive rats

OBJECTIVE

To examine the effect of ZD7155, an angiotensin II receptor antagonist, on blood pressure, heart rate and occupancy of tissue angiotensin II receptor in two-kidney, one-clip Goldblatt hypertensive rats.

METHODS

Goldblatt hypertension was produced in Sprague-Dawley rats. ZD7155 was administered orally at 3 mg/kg and blood pressure and heart rate were monitored for up to 48 h. In a second series of experiments, the rats were administered increasing doses of ZD7155 and monitored for 1 h. For each time and dose, rats were killed and their blood and tissues were collected. Tissue angiotensin II receptor binding was assessed by quantitative autoradiography in vitro. For a separate group of rats, the pressor response to 0.1 microg/kg angiotensin II was monitored before and after the administration of 3 mg/kg ZD7155.

RESULTS

After oral administration of ZD7155, blood pressure was rapidly lowered and this lowering was sustained for up to 48 h. This effect was accompanied by sustained inhibition of angiotensin II receptor binding in the aorta, kidney and adrenal gland, together with an increase in plasma renin activity. Increasing doses of ZD7155 dose-dependently reduced blood pressure and inhibited angiotensin II receptor binding in the tissues. Degrees of inhibition varied among the different tissues and had different time courses. ZD7155 inhibited the pressor response to angiotensin II remarkably for 24 h.

CONCLUSIONS

ZD7155 is a potent antihypertensive agent in two-kidney, one-clip Goldblatt hypertensive rats and this effect is accompanied by sustained inhibition of tissue angiotensin II binding.

Induction of angiotensin converting enzyme and angiotensin II receptors in the atherosclerotic aorta of high-cholesterol fed Cynomolgus monkeys

Antiatherogenic effects of imidapril and involvement of renin angiotensin system were examined in experimental atherosclerosis induced by feeding a high-cholesterol diet to Cynomolgus monkeys. Eighteen male monkeys were divided into three groups and placed under (1) normal diet (normal group), (2) high-cholesterol diet (control group), (3) high-cholesterol diet with imidapril (20 mg/kg body wt/day, orally) treatment (imidapril group). At the end of the experiment, the normal group showed no apparent atherosclerosis in their aorta evaluated by oil red-O staining, while the control group exhibited marked atherosclerotic involvement of the intimal surface of the aorta (58.4 +/- 9.3%, P < 0.01). Imidapril reduced systolic blood pressure and atherosclerotic involvement (24.1 +/- 5.5%, P < 0.05). Total cholesterol content of the descending thoracic aorta was also significantly reduced in the imidapril group. In the atherosclerotic vessels, angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) activity evaluated by quantitative in vitro autoradiography was significantly increased in the intimal lesion. Further evaluation revealed angiotensin II (Ang II) type I (AT1) receptor density was significantly increased in the medial lesion and type II (AT2) receptor density in the adventitia. When the progression of atherosclerosis was impeded by imidapril treatment, the ACE activity level as well as the AT1 and AT2 receptor density remained at normal. Expression of mRNA for fibronectin, TGF-beta1, types I and III collagen was studied by Northern blot analysis. No significant differences in types I and III collagen mRNA levels were found between the control and imidapril group. On the other hand, mRNA expression for fibronectin and TGF-beta1 were much lower in the imidapril group than in the control group. These results suggest that increased production of Ang II and activated receptors may be involved in atherosclerotic process in this model and also antiatherogenic effect of imidapril may be derived from reduction of local Ang II production as well as its hypotensive action.

Distribution and functional significance of angiotensin-II AT1- and AT2-receptor subtypes in the rat adrenal gland

The distribution and the functional significance of angiotensin-II (ANG-II) receptor subtypes, AT1 and AT2, in the rat adrenal gland has been investigated in vitro. Autoradiographic assessment of the selective displacement of [125I]ANG-II binding by selective ligands of the two receptor subtypes indicated that zona glomerulosa (ZG) was provided with both AT1 and AT2, and adrenal medulla (AM) almost exclusively with AT2 receptors. ANG-II (10(-9) M) evoked a marked rise in the secretion of aldosterone by dispersed ZG cells and catecholamines by AM fragments. The selective AT1-receptor antagonist DuP753 blocked aldosterone response to ANG-II, while the selective AT2-receptor antagonist PD123319 was ineffective. Catecholamine response to ANG-II was inhibited by PD123319 and only moderately affected by high concentrations of DuP753. The selective AT2-receptor agonist CGP42112 did not change basal aldosterone release of ZG cells, but concentration-dependently enhanced basal catecholamine release by AM fragments. In light of these findings the conclusion is drawn that in the rat the aldosterone secretagogue effect of ANG-II is exclusively mediated by the AT1 receptors present in the ZG, while the catecholamine secretagogue action preminently involves the activation of AT2 receptor located on medullary chromaffin cells.

The AT2 receptor-mediated stimulation of adrenal catecholamine release may potentiate the AT1 receptor-mediated aldosterone secretagogue action of angiotensin-II in rats

The role played by AT1 and AT2 receptors in the mediation of angiotensin-II (ANG-II) aldosterone secretagogue action has been investigated in vitro using different types of rat adrenal preparations. ANG-II enhanced aldosterone secretion of dispersed zona glomerulosa (ZG) cells in a concentration-dependent manner (EC50, 3 x 10(-10) M), and its effect was annulled by the AT1-receptor antagonist DuP753 and unaffected by the AT2-receptor antagonist PD123319. ANG-II was significantly more effective in stimulating aldosterone secretion when capsule-ZG and adrenal slices containing medullary chromaffin cells were used (EC50, 1 x 10(-11) M and 7 x 10(-12) M, respectively); moreover, both DuP753 and PD123319 caused partial reversals (intense and moderate, respectively) of the responses to ANG-II, and when added together annulled them. The beta-adrenoceptor antagonist l-alprenolol did not affect aldosterone response to ANG-II of dispersed ZG cells, but exerted a PD123319-like effect on the responses of capsule-ZG and adrenal slices. In light of these findings we conclude that, when the integrity of adrenal tissue is preserved, ANG-II stimulates aldosterone secretion by activating both AT1 and AT2 receptors, the major role being played by AT1 receptors located on ZG cells. The activation of AT2 receptors probably elicits the local release of catecholamines, which in turn enhance aldosterone secretion in a paracrine manner acting through the beta-adrenoceptors with which ZG cells are provided.

Pharmacological profiles of a novel non-peptide angiotensin II type I receptor antagonist HR720 in vitro and in vivo

The pharmacological properties of 2-butyl-4-(methylthio)-1-[[2'-[[[(propylamino)carbonyl] amino]sulfonyl](1,1'-biphenyl)-4-yl]methyl]-1H-imidazole-5-carboxylate (HR720), a novel non-peptide angiotensin (Ang) II type I (AT1) receptor antagonist, were characterized in both in vitro and in vivo systems. In vitro autoradiography using 125I-[Sar1,Ile8]Ang II as a ligand revealed that HR720 competitively inhibited the specific binding of the ligand to the adrenal cortex. The IC50 value for the adrenal cortex was 1.5 x 10(-8) M, and the IC50 for medulla was 1.4 x 10(-6) M. Similar results were obtained in the adrenal cortex with CV-11974, a known potent AT1-receptor antagonist. Since AT1 receptors are known to predominate in the adrenal cortex and AT2-receptors in the adrenal medulla, it is considered that HR720 is highly selective for AT1 receptors. HR720 inhibited the Ang II-induced contraction of isolated rabbit aortic strips and human gastroepiploic arteries in a noncompetitive manner, pD'2=9.40 and 9.62 for rabbit aorta and human artery, respectively. With CV-11974, pD'2 values of 9.84 in isolated rabbit aorta and 10.00 in human artery were obtained. HR720 did not affect the norepinephrine-, serotonin- or KCl-induced contraction even at a concentration of 1 x 10(-5) M. In anesthetized hamsters, HR720 induced a dose-dependent inhibition of the pressure response to Ang II. The potency of HR720 to antagonize the Ang II-induced pressure response was similar to that of CV-11974. These results demonstrate that HR720 is a potent and selective AT1-receptor antagonist.

Angiotensin-II stimulates DNA synthesis in rat adrenal zona glomerulosa cells: receptor subtypes involved and possible signal transduction mechanism

Using an in situ perfusion technique of isolated left rat adrenal gland, it has been demonstrated that angiotensin-II (ANG-II) increases DNA synthesis in the zona glomerulosa (ZG), but not fasciculata-reticularis cells. The AT1 receptor antagonist DuP753 abolished the effect of ANG-II, while the AT2 receptor antagonist PD 123319 potentiated it. Both Ro31-8220, an inhibitor of protein kinase C (PKC), and tyrphostin-23, an inhibitor of tyrosine kinase (TK), evoked a partial reversal of ANG-II effect, and when added together to the perfusion medium abolished it. In contrast, the phospholipase C inhibitor U-73122 alone was able to induce a complete blockade of ANG-II effect. Neither the phospholipase A2 inhibitor AACOCF3 nor the cyclooxygenase inhibitor indomethacin and the lipoxygenase inhibitor phenidone affected ANG-II-induced stimulation of DNA synthesis, thereby making unlikely the involvement of the arachidonic acid signaling pathways. Our findings suggest that (i) ANG-II stimulates rat ZG cell proliferation acting via AT1 receptors coupled with phospholipase C, which activates both PKC and TK signaling systems; and (ii) the proliferogenic effect of ANG-II is partially counteracted by the activation of the AT2 receptor subtype.

Biological functions of angiotensin and its receptors

Angiotensin receptors are present in a number of organs and systems including heart, kidney, gonad, and placenta; pituitary and adrenal glands; the peripheral vessels, and the central nervous system. This octapeptide exerts diverse effects that include induction of cell hypertrophy and/or hyperplasia and a stimulation of hormone synthesis and ion transport in the heart, kidney, and adrenal, primarily through type 1 (AT1) receptors. In the kidney, several heterogeneous cell populations--endothelial, epithelial, and vascular--carry AT1 receptors. Some studies suggest that AT2 receptors are also functional, but the cell type carrying this receptor and the nature of its specific function have not been fully elucidated. Although studies indicate that AT1 receptors are affected in response to physiological and pathophysiological manipulations, the functional significance of these modulations remains largely uncertain. Nevertheless, recent human genetic studies indicate that polymorphisms in AT1 receptors, as well as in other angiotensin-related genes, have significant impact on organ remodeling processes of the heart and the kidney.

The action of angiotensin II on the intracellular sodium content of suspensions of rat proximal tubules

1. Intracellular sodium levels in isolated suspensions of rat proximal tubles were measured by 23Na NMR spectroscopy and the effect of angiotensin II (AII) on these levels was recorded. 2. AII at 10(-11) M produced an increase in intracellular sodium content of approximately 20% (P < 0.001) from the steady-state level 5 min after the addition of the drug; intracellular sodium content then gradually returned to baseline levels over the subsequent 25 min. 3. Addition of AII at 10(-5) M resulted in a significant 20% decrease (P < 0.01) in the steady-state intracellular sodium level within 5 min. Again the effect was transient and steady-state intracellular sodium levels were re-established after 25 min. 4. Amiloride at 10(-4) M significantly attenuated the action of AII at 10(-11) M (P < 0.0001) and inhibited the transient response to AII at 10(-5) M (P < 0.01). When amiloride alone was added to the tubular suspension, intracellular sodium content decreased significantly by 18-22% (P < 0.001), and addition of both the high and low doses of AII did not have any further effect on intracellular sodium level. 5. The actions of both concentrations of AII were unaffected by an inhibitor of endopeptidase-24.11, phosphoramidon at 10(-6) M, which suggests that the transient action of AII was not due to the breakdown of AII by endopeptidase-24.11. 6. It is well known that AII at high doses inhibits and at low doses stimulates sodium transport across proximal tubular epithelial cells. From the present data it is proposed that AII has a transient biphasic action on intracellular sodium content which may reflect the stimulation of the Na(+)-H+ exchanger.

Mapping of angiotensin II receptor subtypes in peripheral tissues of spontaneously hypertensive rats by in vitro autoradiography

1. The regulation of angiotensin II (AII) receptor subtypes was studied in peripheral tissues of 20 week old male spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) and age-matched normotensive Wistar-Kyoto (WKY) rats. 2. AII receptor binding was determined by a quantitative in vitro autoradiography using [125I]-[Sar1,Ile8]AII as a ligand on the kidney, adrenal gland, thoracic aorta and heart. CV-11974, a specific AT1 receptor antagonist, and CGP42112B, a specific AT2 antagonist, were used in competition with [125I]-[Sar1,Ile8]AII to differentiate AT1 and AT2 receptor binding. 3. The relative abundance of each subtype was very similar between SHR and WKY rats. In both strains of rats, the adrenal cortex contained predominantly AT1 receptors, while AT2 receptors predominated in the adrenal medulla. The kidney contained exclusively AT1 receptors over glomeruli, proximal tubules and outer medulla. AT1 receptors were predominant in the thoracic aorta and heart. 4. As for relative receptor density, important differences were observed between SHR and WKY rats. In SHR, the adrenal cortex, outer medulla of the kidney, and heart displayed higher AT1 receptor density than WKY rats. 5. These results indicate that the expression of AT1 receptors is differently regulated in some important targets of AII in SHR, and suggest that the altered regulation of AT1 receptor presented in this study should be relevant to the pathophysiological features of SHR.

Evidence for a differential modulation of the alpha-2 adrenoceptors by angiotensin II in the nucleus tractus solitarii of the spontaneously hypertensive and the Wistar-Kyoto normotensive rats

An interaction between angiotensin II (Ang II) receptors and alpha 2-adrenoceptors was evaluated in the nucleus tractus solitarii (NTS) of the normotensive Wistar-Kyoto rat (WKY) and of the spontaneously hypertensive rat (SHR) using quantitative receptor autoradiography and cardiovascular analysis. In the WKY rat, Ang II promoted a dose-dependent increase in the IC50 value of l-noradrenaline when competing for ([3H]p-aminoclonidine ([3H]PAC) binding sites, which reached a maximum of 400% with 10 nM of Ang II and was associated with a small decrease in the B0 value (20%). In the SHR Ang II (0.1 nM) had an opposite effect leading to a decrease in the IC50 value of about 57%, and no change was observed in the B0 value. Saturation analysis also showed that Ang II (0.1 nM) increased the KD value of [3H]PAC in the WKY strain but in contrast decreased the KD value of [3H]PAC in the SHR. The Bmax value was not significantly changed neither in the WKY rat nor in the SHR. The cardiovascular analysis showed that a threshold dose of Ang II (0.05 pmol) counteracted the vasodepressor effect produced by l-noradrenaline coinjected in the NTS of the WKY rat. No effect was observed in heart rate. In the SHR no counteraction of the l-noradrenaline-induced vasodepressor effect was found, and in contrast a slight increase of the vasodepressor effect associated with a significant increase in the bradycardiac response was observed. The results give evidence for an antagonistic Ang II/alpha 2 receptor interaction in the cardiovascular part of the NTS of the WKY rat as previously observed in the Sprague-Dawley rat. However, this interaction is altered in the SHR, so that in this strain the Ang II/alpha 2 receptor interaction enhances alpha 2 affinity and possibly alpha 2 receptor function. This opposite effect observed in the SHR may represent one compensatory mechanism to counteract the development of high blood pressure in the SHR.

Angiotensin II receptor subtypes in the human central nervous system

The distribution of the AT1 and AT2 subtypes of angiotensin II receptor was mapped in the adult human central nervous system using quantitative in vitro autoradiography. Binding in all forebrain, midbrain, pontine, medullary and spinal cord sites where angiotensin II receptors have previously been described is of the AT1 subtype, as is binding in the small and large arteries in the adjacent meninges and in choroid plexus. By contrast, both AT1 and AT2 receptors occur in the molecular layer of the cerebellum. Angiotensin II AT1 receptors in the brain show a moderate degree of conservation across mammalian species studied so far, whereas expression of AT2 receptors is more variable, and is more restricted in the human CNS than in many other mammals. These differences between the subtype distributions in humans and other animals indicate the need for care when extrapolating the results of animal studies involving the brain angiotensin system.

Tissue-specific expression of type 1 angiotensin II receptor subtypes. An in situ hybridization study

The angiotensin II type 1 (AT1) receptor in murine species exists as two isoforms (AT1A and AT1B) encoded by two different genes. Both subtypes have a 9/10 homology in the coding sequence of their mRNA. We examined organs of adult rats (liver, pituitary gland, adrenal gland, kidney, heart, and lung) to study the differential expression of these two genes in target tissues for angiotensin II. AT1A and AT1B mRNAs were detected by in situ hybridization using specific riboprobes for the 3' noncoding region of the mRNAs that have the lowest homology (approximately 6/10). Only AT1A was expressed in the liver, heart, and lung, and only AT1B was expressed in the anterior pituitary, where most cells were positive. In the adrenal gland, AT1A mRNA was detected in the zona glomerulosa and medulla and AT1B in the glomerulosa. In the kidney, AT1A mRNA was the predominant isoform (mesangial and juxtaglomerular cells, proximal tubules, vasa recta, and interstitial cells), but AT1B was also detected in mesangial and juxtaglomerular cells and in the renal pelvis. The results of this in situ detection suggest a tissue-selective regulation of AT1A and AT1B mRNAs. This tissue specificity may constitute a prerequisite condition if the two angiotensin II receptor subtypes, which are pharmacologically similar, are to selectively modulate the various effects of angiotensin II in the different target tissues.

Fibrosis and myocardial ACE: possible substrate and independence from circulating angiotensin II

In order to determine the relation between myocardial fibrosis and (1) angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) binding density, (2) receptor binding of ACE-related peptides, angiotensin II (AngII) and bradykinin (BK), and (3) the regulation of myocardial ACE by circulating Ang II, we used in vitro quantitative autoradiography to localize and assess ACE ([125I]351A), AngII receptor (125I[Sar1, IIe8]AngII), and BK receptor ([125I]Tyr8) binding densities in the rat myocardium. The experimental groups were (1) AngII (9 micrograms/h subcutaneously) or aldosterone (0.75 microgram/h subcutaneously in uninephrectomized rats on a high-sodium diet) administered by implanted minipump to chronically increase or decrease circulating AngII, respectively, (2) unoperated, untreated age- and sex-matched control rats, and (3) age- and sex-matched uninephrectomized control rats on a high-sodium diet. In the same heart studied at 2, 4, and 6 weeks of hormone treatment, serial sections were assessed for myocardial (hematoxylin and eosin) and fibrillar collagen (picrosirius red) morphology. The authors found that (1) marked ACE binding was coincident with sites of fibrous tissue that appeared in both ventricles as either a perivascular fibrosis of intramyocardial coronary arterioles or microscopic scarring in response to AngII or aldosterone infusion, (2) ACE binding was independent of circulating AngII, (3) BK, not AngII, receptor binding density was markedly increased at fibrous tissue sites, and (4) high-density ACE and BK receptor binding were anatomically coincident. Thus, in these experimental models, ACE is related to fibrous tissue formation where it may use BK, not angiotensin I, as a substrate, and its binding density is independent of circulating AngII.

Blockade by intravenous losartan of AT1 angiotensin II receptors in rat brain, kidney and adrenals demonstrated by in vitro autoradiography

1. The in vivo inhibition of angiotensin II (AII) receptor binding in the rat brain, kidney and adrenal was investigated after intravenous administration of the AT1-selective AII receptor antagonist losartan. 2. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were administered intravenously either vehicle, or losartan at doses of 1, 3 or 10 mg/kg. Plasma samples were collected and tissues removed at 1, 2, 8 or 24 h after administration of the antagonist. The effects of losartan on AII receptor binding were assessed by quantitative in vitro autoradiography. 3. Losartan significantly increased plasma renin activity (PRA) by six-fold and nine-fold at doses of 1 and 10 mg/kg, respectively (P < 0.05). Plasma losartan concentrations rose from 0.83 micrograms/mL at 1 mg/kg to 46.5 micrograms/mL at 10 mg/kg 1 h after administration of the drug. Plasma renin activity returned to control, whilst losartan was undetectable 24 h after injection of the antagonist. 4. In the brain, losartan produced a dose-dependent inhibition of AII receptor binding to the brain structures which express exclusively, or predominantly, AT1 receptors both outside and within the blood brain barrier. By contrast, losartan did not affect binding to the nuclei which contain exclusively, or predominantly, AT2 receptors. 5. In the kidney, losartan blocked AII receptor binding to all anatomical sites in a dose-dependent manner. The inhibition peaked at 1 h and persisted beyond 24 h despite the fact that PRA had returned to control, and losartan was not detectable in the circulation. In the adrenal gland, where AT1 and AT2 receptors occur in both the cortex and medulla, losartan caused partial inhibition at both regions. 6. These results indicate that losartan, administered intravenously at these doses, and/or its active metabolites, partially penetrate the blood brain barrier to selectively inhibit central AT1 receptors, and exert selective and prolonged blockade at AT1 receptors in peripheral target tissues.

Receptor interactions of Abbott-81988, a highly potent, non-peptide angiotensin-II antagonist selective for type-1 receptors

Abbott-81988 (A-81988) was selected from a series of related compounds as a highly potent and selective antagonist of angiotensin receptors. In the rabbit aorta, A-81988 exhibited a pA2 of 10.12 (+/- 0.08) vs. angiotensin-II, for type 1 receptors (AT1), and the antagonism appeared competitive. These results agreed with radioligand assays in which A-81988 inhibited the binding of [125I]-Sar1-Ile8-Angiotensin-II to rat liver membranes with a pKI of 9.12 (+/- 0.63). A-81988 was selective for AT1 receptors based on its lack of activity at other sites, such as aortic alpha 1 receptors. Moreover, A-81988 lacked affinity for AT2 receptors of bovine cerebellar membranes or for alpha or beta adrenergic receptors in binding assays. A-81988 lowered blood pressure significantly in vivo in renal artery-ligated rats at doses of 0.3 mg/kg administered either i.v. or p.o. The compound was rapidly and almost completely absorbed from the duodenum of anesthetized rats and demonstrated very low first-pass metabolism in the rat liver. These properties of selectivity toward and potency for antagonizing AT1 receptors, activity in lowering blood pressure in experimental animals, and favorable pharmacokinetic properties indicate that A-81988 should be a useful antihypertensive agent in man.

Renin-angiotensin system in neonatal rats: induction of a renal abnormality in response to ACE inhibition or angiotensin II antagonism

In experiments designed to analyze cardiovascular structure in response to antihypertensive therapy with an ACE inhibitor, we decided to start very early in life with the aim to prevent blood pressure increases and the development of vascular structural changes. In these treated groups of rats we unexpectedly observed that after they were weaned, their water consumption and urine volume, respectively, increased substantially. The present study was designed to determine if inhibition of the renin-angiotensin system produced similar effects in different strains of rats, and focused on characterizing the abnormal fluid balance occurring as a consequence to neonatal treatment with ACE inhibitors or angiotensin II blockers. Three-day-old Wistar Kyoto (WKY), Wistar (WR) and spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) were given either saline, enalapril, captopril, losartan and the AT2 blocker, PD123319, in the same amount of volume for 20 days. Treatment was stopped and rats were examined with regard to renal morphology at 4, 14 and 30 weeks of age. In addition, water consumption, urine volume, urine electrolytes and osmolality were analyzed at 14 weeks of age, that is, 10 weeks off treatment. Early treatment with the ACE inhibitors, enalapril and captopril, and the AT1 blocker, losartan, but not the AT2 blocker, PD 123319, in the SHR and in the normotensive strains WKY and WR produced persistent, irreversible histopathological renal abnormalities in adult life, long after the rats had been taken off treatment. These abnormalities consisted of mainly cortical tubulointerstitial inflammation, various degrees of papillary atrophy and pelvic dilation.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Cardiovascular effects of GR117289, a novel angiotensin AT1 receptor antagonist

1. The effect of GR117289, an angiotensin AT1 receptor antagonist, on diastolic blood pressure (DBP) was determined in angiotensin-dependent and angiotensin-independent models of hypertension in rats. In addition, the antagonist profile of GR117289 at angiotensin AT1 receptors was determined in conscious renal hypertensive rats and conscious normotensive rats, dogs and marmosets. 2. Intra-arterial and oral administration of GR117289 (0.3-3 mg kg-1, i.a.; 1-10 mg kg-1, p.o.) to 6-day left renal artery ligated hypertensive (RALH) rats (DBP > 140 mmHg) produced significant, dose-related reductions in DBP with little apparent effect on heart rate (< 15%). The antihypertensive effect of GR117289 developed progressively over several hours and with some doses persisted for 24-48 h after administration. 3. Administration of GR117289 (1 mg kg-1, i.a.) on 5 consecutive days to RALH rats reduced DBP on each day. The antihypertensive effect of GR117289 was not cumulative as DBP had almost returned to base-line values, 24 h after administration of each dose. 4. A dose of GR117289 (3 mg kg-1, i.a.), which produced a substantial reduction in DBP (about 70 mmHg) in RALH rats, was administered to rats in which blood pressure was elevated either by unilateral renal artery clipping, sustained infusion of angiotensin II (AII), DOCA-salt administration or genetic inbreeding. GR117289 reduced DBP in rats in which the renin-angiotensin system was activated by renal artery clipping or AII infusion but had little effect in normotensive rats, DOCA-salt rats and SHR. 5. Systemic administration of All to RALH rats and to normotensive rats, dogs and marmosets elicited reproducible pressor responses in all species. Systemic or oral administration of GR1 17289 (3 mg kg-1)inhibited the pressor responses produced by All, resulting in parallel, rightward displacements of All dose-response curves.6. Maximal displacements of All dose-response curves occurred 1 h and 1-7 h after systemic and oral administration, respectively. GR1 17289 produced a 32-246 fold displacement after systemic administration and a 4-12 fold displacement after oral administration. The effect in dogs was short lasting after systemic administration but the effect of GRI17289 lasted for up to 24 h in rats and marmosets and for up to 24 h after oral administration in all species. The antagonist activity appeared specific for angiotensin receptors as GRi17289 did not inhibit pressor responses to phenylephrine or vasopressin.7. These experiments demonstrate that GRI 17289 reduces blood pressure in conscious hypertensive rats after both systemic and oral administration, and is an effective antagonist at angiotensin AT1 receptors in conscious rats, dogs and marmosets.

Angiotensin II administration improves cerebral blood flow in cardiopulmonary arrest in swine

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Cerebral blood flow during cardiopulmonary resuscitation is inadequate to meet cerebral metabolic demand. Adrenergic agonists improve cerebral blood flow, but clinical trials of increased doses in adults have not shown improved outcome from cardiac arrest. This may be due to adverse beta-agonist-mediated effects. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of angiotensin II, a potent nonadrenergic vasopressor, on cerebral blood flow in cardiac arrest.

METHODS

Eleven immature swine were anesthetized and instrumented for regional blood flow measurements with radiolabeled microspheres. A sagittal sinus catheter was placed for blood gas determination. A blood flow measurement was performed in normal sinus rhythm and ventricular fibrillation induced. After 10 minutes of ventricular fibrillation, cardiopulmonary resuscitation was begun and a blood flow measurement performed. Angiotensin II at a dose of 50 micrograms/kg was administered intravenously at 13 minutes of ventricular fibrillation. A blood flow measurement was performed and defibrillation attempted. A fourth blood flow measurement was obtained if return of spontaneous circulation occurred.

RESULTS

Total cerebral blood flow was 46.4 mL/min per 100 g in normal sinus rhythm. This fell to 6.9 mL/min per 100 g with cardiopulmonary resuscitation alone and rose to 30.8 mL/min per 100 g after the administration of angiotensin II. The improvement following angiotensin II was statistically different (P = .002). Cerebral blood flow further rose in the animals that had return of spontaneous circulation to 73.9 mL/min per 100 g.

CONCLUSIONS

Angiotensin II in a dose of 50 micrograms/kg significantly improves cerebral blood flow in this model of cardiac arrest.

Important role of peptide leukotrienes (p-LTs) in the resting tonus of isolated human bronchi

The quality of the resting tonus in isolated human bronchi was investigated using a peptide leukotriene (p-LT) antagonist, a 5-lipoxygenase inhibitor and others. (E)-2,2-Diethyl-3'-[2-[2-(4-isopropyl)-thiazoyl]ethenyl]succina nilic acid sodium salt (MCI-826), a newly synthesized compound that is a highly selective antagonist to LTD4 and LTE4, markedly relaxed the isolated human bronchi at low concentrations. A selective and competitive arachidonate 5-lipoxygenase inhibitor, 2,3,5-trimethyl-6-(12-hydroxy-5,10-dodecadiynyl)-1,4-benzoquinone (AA-861), also potently lowered the tonus. In addition, a large amount of spontaneously formed p-LTs was detected in the isolated human bronchial tissue as well as the lung parenchymal tissue. The isolated human bronchi responded to indomethacin treatment with contractions and the acceleration of p-LT formation. Atropine, an anticholinergic; mepyramine, an antihistaminic; and OKY-046, a thromboxane synthetase inhibitor, all showed no effect on the resting tonus. Taking into consideration the high responsiveness of the human airway smooth muscle to p-LTs and the present results, which were different from those on isolated guinea pig tracheas, it is strongly suggested that the spontaneously formed p-LTs largely participate in the resting tonus of the majority of isolated human bronchi.

Functional roles of brain AT1 and AT2 receptors in the central angiotensin II pressor response in conscious young spontaneously hypertensive rats

Areas of adult rat brain that mediate the cardiovascular effects of central angiotensin II (ANG II) predominantly express AT1 ANG II receptors. In contrast, AT2 receptor expression in young rats is transiently increased, reaching a maximum during the first few weeks of life. This study was designed to determine the roles of brain AT1 and AT2 receptors in mediating the central pressor effects of ANG II in young (4-week-old) conscious spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR). Mean arterial pressure responses to intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.) ANG II (100 ng in 5 microliters) were determined 10 minutes after i.c.v. injection of either the AT1 receptor antagonist Losartan (1.0, 2.5, 5.0, and 10.0 micrograms), the AT2 receptor ligand PD 123319 (3.5 x [10(-6), 10(-4), 10(-2), 10(0)] micrograms), or both. In control rats, i.c.v. Losartan prevented the pressor response to i.c.v. ANG II in a dose-dependent manner (P < 0.05), while i.c.v. PD 123319 alone was without effect. In other animals, pressor responses caused by i.c.v. ANG II-induced vasopressin secretion (VP-component) and sympathetic nervous system activation (SNS-component) were studied individually, with similar result; Losartan prevented the SNS-component, but reduced the VP-component by only 45%, indicating that both pressor components involve AT1 receptor activation. However, doses of Losartan were more effective when combined with 3.5 micrograms of PD 123319 than when given alone (P < 0.05); nearly eliminating the VP-component. These results suggest that i.c.v. ANG-II-induced pressor effects may involve activation of multiple receptor subtypes.

Functional role of brain AT1 and AT2 receptors in the central angiotensin II pressor response

Intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.) angiotensin II (ANG II) increases vascular resistance and elicits a pressor response characterized by sympathetic nervous system activation (SNS component) and increased vasopressin (VP) secretion (VP component). This study examines the role of brain AT1 and AT2 ANG II receptors in mediating the pressor and renal hemodynamic effects of i.c.v. ANG II in conscious Sprague-Dawley rats. Mean arterial pressure, heart rate and renal vascular resistance responses to i.c.v. ANG II (100 ng in 5 microliters) were determined 10 min after i.c.v. injection of either the AT1 receptor antagonist, DuP 753 (1.0, 2.5, 5.0, 10.0 micrograms), the AT2 receptor ligand, PD 123319 (3.5 x [10(-6), 10(-4), 10(-2), 10(0)] micrograms), or both. In control rats, i.c.v. DuP 753 prevented the pressor response and the increase in renal vascular resistance that occurred following i.c.v. ANG II in a dose-dependent manner (P < 0.05), while i.c.v. PD 123319 was without affect. When the VP- and SNS components were studied individually, by preventing the SNS component with intravenous (i.v.) chlorisondamine or the VP component with a V1 receptor antagonist (i.v.) similar results were obtained; DuP 753 prevented the SNS component and significantly reduced the VP component. These results indicate that both central ANG II pressor components are mediated primarily by brain AT1 receptors. However, doses of DuP 753 were more effective when combined with 3.5 micrograms of PD 123319 than when given alone (P < 0.05), suggesting that the pressor effects of i.c.v. ANG II may involve activation of multiple ANG II receptor subtypes.