The in vivo effect of tachykinins on airway mast cells of the rat

Navigating the blurred path of mixed neuroimmune signaling

Evolution has created complex mechanisms to sense environmental danger and protect tissues, with the nervous and immune systems playing pivotal roles. These systems work together, coordinating local and systemic reflexes to restore homeostasis in response to tissue injury and infection. By sharing receptors and ligands, they influence the pathogenesis of various diseases. Recently, a less-explored aspect of neuroimmune communication has emerged: the release of neuropeptides from immune cells and cytokines/chemokines from sensory neurons. This article reviews evidence of this unique neuroimmune interplay and its impact on the development of allergy, inflammation, itch, and pain. We highlight the effects of this neuroimmune signaling on vital processes such as host defense, tissue repair, and inflammation resolution, providing avenues for exploration of the underlying mechanisms and therapeutic potential of this signaling.

Using guinea pigs in studies relevant to asthma and COPD

The guinea pig has been the most commonly used small animal species in preclinical studies related to asthma and COPD. The primary advantages of the guinea pig are the similar potencies and efficacies of agonists and antagonists in human and guinea pig airways and the many similarities in physiological processes, especially airway autonomic control and the response to allergen. The primary disadvantages to using guinea pigs are the lack of transgenic methods, limited numbers of guinea pig strains for comparative studies and a prominent axon reflex that is unlikely to be present in human airways. These attributes and various models developed in guinea pigs are discussed.

Role of the tachykinin NK(1) receptor in mediating contraction to 5-hydroxytryptamine and antigen in the mouse trachea

Neuroimmune interactions are important in airway diseases such as asthma. We evaluated the role of the tachykinin NK(1) receptor in the contractile response of isolated trachea from tachykinin NK(1) receptor wild type (WT) and knockout (KO) mice, to the antigen ovalbumin and the contractile agonist serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine). One percent ovalbumin induced contractions of tracheas obtained from ovalbumin-immunized and exposed mice. The tracheas from WT animals showed larger contractions compared to the KO mice. Tracheas from sensitized and ovalbumin-exposed animals released 5-hydroxytyptamine upon addition of ovalbumin. No higher levels of 5-hydroxytryptamine were released from tracheas of WT animals. Tracheas of non-sensitized animals did not release 5-hydroxytryptamine upon ovalbumin challenge. Responses to ovalbumin were abrogated by methysergide, a broad 5-hydroxytryptamine receptor antagonist. Exogenous 5-hydroxytryptamine contracted tracheas but WT tracheas responded significantly more. Atropine and tetrodotoxin (TTX) reduced 5-hydroxytryptamine-induced contractions of the WT tracheas, while they did not affect 5-hydroxytryptamine-induced contractions of KO tracheas. 5-Hydroxytryptamine-induced contractions from atropine- or TTX-treated WT tracheas did not differ significantly from the contractions of the KO tracheas. Single tachykinin NK(1) receptor antagonists SR140,333 and RP67,580 had no effect on 5-hydroxytryptamine-induced contractions. In conclusion, the 5-hydroxytryptamine-induced tracheal contraction includes a cholinergic mechanism that requires the presence of the tachykinin NK(1) receptor.

Disodium Cromoglycate Inhibits Capsaicin-Induced Eosinophil Infiltration of Conjunctiva Independent of Mast Cells

PURPOSE

To investigate whether disodium cromoglycate (DSCG) inhibits capsaicin-induced eosinophil infiltration of the conjunctiva independent of mast cells.

METHODS

We administered 5 microl of capsaicin solution (10(-5) M) into the conjunctival sacs of mast cell-deficient W/W(v) mice (12 animals) and wild-type mice (12 animals). As controls, the eyes of 12 wild-type and 12 W/W(v) mice were treated with phosphate-buffered saline. Following treatment, the eyelids and eyeballs were removed en bloc at 3, 9, or 24 h, and were histologically examined. The number of infiltrated eosinophils and the expression of vascular cell adhesion molecule-l (VCAM-1) in the conjunctiva were quantified by the staining method of Hansel and immunohistochemical analysis. We also investigated whether treatment by depletion of neuropeptides or by DSCG administration could suppress the capsaicin-induced eosinophil infiltration of the conjunctiva.

RESULTS

In both W/W(v) and wild-type mice, eosinophil infiltration of conjunctival tissues was observed 3 h after capsaicin administration. In both strains of mice, the number of infiltrated eosinophils increased over time, with VCAM-1 expression on vascular endothelial cells peaking at 9 h after treatment, and decreasing gradually within 24 h after treatment. In both the neuropeptide-depleted and the DSCG-treated groups, eosinophil infiltration and VCAM-1 expression were suppressed in comparison with the nontreated group.

CONCLUSION

DSCG can directly inhibit neuropeptide-induced eosinophil infiltration of the conjunctiva independent of mast cells.

Extending the understanding of sensory neuropeptides

The tachykinins substance P and neurokinin A are present in human airways, in sensory nerves and immune cells. Tachykinins can be recovered from the airways after inhalation of ozone, cigarette smoke or allergen. They interact in the airways with tachykinin NK1, NK2 and NK3 receptors to cause bronchoconstriction, plasma protein extravasation, and mucus secretion and to attract and activate immune cells. In preclinical studies they have been implicated in the pathophysiology of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, including allergen- and cigarette smoke induced airway inflammation and bronchial hyperresponsiveness and mucus secretion. Dual NK1/NK2 or triple NK1/NK2/NK3 tachykinin receptor antagonists offer therapeutic potential in airway diseases such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

The Effects of Substance P on the Biomechanic Properties of Ruptured Rat Achilles’ Tendon

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether injection of substance P into the paratendinous region of a ruptured and subsequently sutured rat Achilles' tendon alters the biomechanic properties of the tendon.

DESIGN

Interventional animal study.

SETTING

Animal laboratory at a university hospital.

ANIMALS

Ninety-six 2-month-old, male Sprague-Dawley rats.

INTERVENTION

Injection of saline, substance P (10(-6)micromol/kg of body weight [BW] or 10(-8)micromol/kg BW) associated with neutral endopeptidase inhibitors, or neutral endopeptidase inhibitors alone into the paratendinous region of ruptured and subsequently sutured rat Achilles' tendons from the second until the sixth day postoperatively.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Stress at maximal load and work to maximal load and stiffness.

RESULTS

Stress at maximal load was higher in the groups injected with substance P than in the saline group in the first, second, and sixth weeks. Work to maximal load was higher from the second until the sixth weeks in the substance P-treated groups than in the saline group. Stiffness did not differ between the 4 groups in any of the weeks.

CONCLUSIONS

Injection of substance P into the paratendinous region of ruptured and subsequently sutured rat Achilles' tendons improved tendon healing by enhancing stress at maximal load and work to maximal load. However, stiffness was not significantly affected.

Exogenously administered substance P and neutral endopeptidase inhibitors stimulate fibroblast proliferation, angiogenesis and collagen organization during Achilles tendon healing

BACKGROUND

In the last few years much research has been conducted in methods to promote tendon healing. The aim of this study was to determine if the healing process after operative repair of rat Achilles tendons could be stimulated by the paratendinous injection of a sensory peptide, substance P (SP).

METHODS

Ninety-six male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly allocated to four groups: (I) control buffer injections, (II) injections of SP 10(-6) mol/kg body weight combined with a carrier, (III) injections of SP 10(-8) mol/kg BW with the carrier, and (IV) injections with the carrier only (thiorphan 1 micromol/kg BW and captopril 30 micromol/kg BW, both neutral endopeptidase inhibitors). The influence on tissue repair was determined from the histologic measurement of fibroblast proliferation, angiogenesis, and collagen organization. On days 7, 14, 28 and 42, animals were sacrificed and histologic evaluations were performed on the injured Achilles tendon constructs.

RESULTS

The two groups subjected to SP injections showed a significant initial fibroblast proliferation on day 7 (p < 0.05), which rapidly declined by day 14 to the level of cellular proliferation observed with the use of thiorphan and captopril. Capillary proliferation showed a similar evolution, except that in the second week angiogenesis in the treated groups was below the level of the control group. Strikingly, collagen orientation increased faster in the groups injected with SP. This was obvious from the second week already and the difference remained until the completion of the study.

CONCLUSION

This is the first study to demonstrate that paratendinous injections of SP after operative repair of the Achilles tendon in rats appears to provide a boost to the initial stages of healing and significantly accelerate the reparative phase of the healing process.

Mast cell mediators in citric acid-induced airway constriction of guinea pigs

We demonstrated previously that mast cells play an important role in citric acid (CA)-induced airway constriction. In this study, we further investigated the underlying mediator(s) for this type of airway constriction. At first, to examine effects caused by blocking agents, 67 young Hartley guinea pigs were divided into 7 groups: saline + CA; methysergide (serotonin receptor antagonist) + CA; MK-886 (leukotriene synthesis inhibitor) + CA; mepyramine (histamine H1 receptor antagonist) + CA; indomethacin (cyclooxygenase inhibitor) + CA; cromolyn sodium (mast cell stabilizer) + CA; and compound 48/80 (mast cell degranulating agent) + CA. Then, we tested whether leukotriene C4 (LTC4) or histamine enhances CA-induced airway constriction in compound 48/80-pretreated guinea pigs. We measured dynamic respiratory compliance (Crs) and forced expiratory volume in 0.1 s (FEV0.1) during either baseline or recovery period. In addition, we detected histamine level, an index of pulmonary mast cell degranulation, in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) samples. Citric acid aerosol inhalation caused decreases in Crs and FEV0.1, indicating airway constriction in the control group. This airway constriction was significantly attenuated by MK-886, mepyramine, cromolyn sodium, and compound 48/80, but not by either methysergide or indomethacin. Both LTC4 and histamine infusion significantly increased the magnitude of CA-induced airway constriction in compound 48/80-pretreated guinea pigs. Citric acid inhalation caused significant increase in histamine level in the BAL sample, which was significantly suppressed by compound 48/80. These results suggest that leukotrienes and histamine originating from mast cells play an important role in CA inhalation-induced noncholinergic airway constriction.

Mast cells and reactive oxygen species in citric acid-induced airway constriction

The noncholinergic airway constriction is mediated by tachykinins, mainly neurokinin A and substance P, and this bronchoconstriction is usually enhanced during inflammatory episodes. We demonstrated previously that reactive oxygen species play an important role in capsaicin-, hyperventilation-, and citric acid (CA) inhalation-induced noncholinergic airway constriction. For understanding cellular involvement, we further investigated the relationship between mast cells, bradykinin (BK), reactive oxygen species, and noncholinergic airway constriction. Sixty-five guinea pigs were divided into seven groups: saline control; CA; BK + CA; cromolyn sodium (CS) + CA; BK + CS + CA; compound 48/80 + CA; and compound 48/80 + BK + CA. CS was used to stabilize mast cells, whereas a secretagogue, compound 48/80, was for the depletion of mast cells. Each animal was anesthetized, cannulated, paralyzed, and ventilated artificially. In control animals, CA aerosol inhalation caused decreases in dynamic compliance and forced expiratory parameters, indicating CA-induced noncholinergic airway constriction. Either CS or compound 48/80 significantly attenuated the CA-induced airway constriction. Also, we detected a significant increase in lucigenin-initiated chemiluminescence counts of the bronchoalveolar lavage sample in the BK + CA group. Furthermore, CA exposure caused an increase in bronchoalveolar lavage substance P level. Either CS or compound 48/80 prevented the above CA-induced increases in chemiluminescence and substance P. These results suggest that mast cells play an important role in CA aerosol inhalation-induced airway constriction via perhaps releasing constricting factors.

Substance P and other neuropeptides do not induce mediator release in isolated human intestinal mast cells

Neuropeptides such as substance P (SP) and related peptides are supposed to act as mast cell agonists, and thus as mediators of neuroimmune interactions. The data supporting this hypothesis were obtained mostly from rodent experiments. Here, we studied for the first time the effect of SP and other peptides on mediator release in human intestinal mast cells, either unpurified or enriched to 85-99% purity. We found that SP at 0.1-100 micromol L(-1), or other peptides including neurokinin A and B, calcitonin gene-related peptide, vasoactive intestinal peptide and serotonin at 1 micromol L(-1) do not induce release of mediators such as histamine, sulphidoleukotrienes, and tumour necrosis factor alpha. The peptides also failed to cause mediator release in mast cells isolated from inflamed tissue derived from Crohn's disease. Using reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction, flow cytometry and immunohistochemistry, we could show that human intestinal mast cells do not express the tachykinin receptors NK-1, NK-2, or NK-3 under basal conditions. However, upon stimulation by immunoglobulin E (IgE) receptor-crosslinking, which induces an extensive mediator release reaction, a subpopulation of mast cells clearly expressed NK-1, the SP receptor. In conclusion, our data show that SP and other neuropeptides do not act as secretagogues in human intestinal mast cells that have not been pre-activated by IgE receptor-crosslinking.

Airway hyperresponsiveness to bradykinin induced by allergen challenge in actively sensitised Brown Norway rats

The mechanism(s) of bradykinin-induced bronchoconstriction was investigated in the Brown Norway (BN) rat model of allergic asthma. Bronchoconstrictor responses to i.v. bradykinin in BN rats were maximally augmented 24 h following challenge with allergen and declined at later time points. Histological evaluation of the inflammatory status of the lungs after ovalbumin (OA) challenge showed a marked inflammatory response, which was maximal at 24 h and declined thereafter. However, pretreatment with budesonide did not inhibit the augmented bronchoconstrictor response to bradykinin 24 h after allergen challenge. The selective B1 receptor agonist, Lys-[desArg9]-BK had no bronchoconstrictor effects, whereas the selective B2 receptor antagonist, HOE 140, abolished the response to bradykinin in OA-challenged animals. The augmented response to bradykinin was not affected by methysergide, indomethacin, disodium cromoglycate, iralukast, the 5-lipoxygenase inhibitor, CGS8515, or the NK2 receptor antagonist, SR48968. It was, however, partially inhibited by atropine both in saline- and OA-challenged animals. Pretreatment with captopril and thiorphan markedly potentiated responses to bradykinin both in saline- and OA-challenged animals. Thus, augmentation of the bronchoconstrictor response to bradykinin occurs in actively sensitised BN rats 24 h after challenge with OA and is associated with marked pulmonary inflammation. The response is entirely B2 receptor mediated and approximately 50% of the response is cholinergic. However, mast cell activation, the products of the cyclooxygenase or 5-lipoxygenase pathways and tachykinins are not involved. Peptidase inhibition mimics the effect of allergen challenge on the bronchoconstrictor response to bradykinin and it remains possible that the mechanism of the augmented response to bradykinin following allergen challenge involves downregulation of peptidase activity as a consequence of the inflammatory response.

The role of neural inflammation in asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

The tachykinins substance P and neurokinin A are found within airway nerves and immune cells. They have various effects on the airways that can contribute to the changes observed in asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Both tachykinin NK(1) and NK(2) receptors have been involved in the bronchoconstriction and the proinflammatory changes induced by substance P and neurokinin A. Tachykinin NK(1) and NK(2) receptor antagonists have activity in various animal models of allergic asthma and chronic bronchitis. It is suggested that dual NK(1)/NK(2) and triple NK(1)/NK(2)/NK(3) tachykinin receptor antagonists have potential in the treatment of obstructive airway diseases.

Airway inflammation and tachykinins: prospects for the development of tachykinin receptor antagonists

The tachykinins substance P and neurokinin A are contained within sensory airway nerves. Immune cells form an additional source of tachykinins in inflamed airways. Elevated levels of tachykinins have been recovered from the airways of patients with asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Airway inflammation leads to an upregulation of tachykinin NK(1) and NK(2) receptors. Preclinical studies have indicated a role for the tachykinin NK(1), NK(2) and NK(3) receptors in bronchoconstriction, airway hyperresponsiveness and airway inflammation caused by allergic and nonallergic stimuli. Compounds that are able to block two or three tachykinin receptors hold promise for the treatment of airways diseases such as asthma and/or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Adrenomedullin and proadrenomedullin N-terminal 20 peptide induce histamine release from rat peritoneal mast cell

Adrenomedullin (ADM)-induced histamine release from rat peritoneal mast cells was investigated. We compared the ability of full-length ADM to induce histamine release to the fragments ADM-(1-25) and ADM-(22-52), as well as proadrenomedullin N-terminal 20 peptide (PAMP). ADM (10(-8) to 10(-5) M) and PAMP (10(-8) to 10(-5) M) dose-dependently increased histamine release from peritoneal mast cell preparations. The effect of ADM-(1-25) was similar to ADM, whereas ADM-(22-52) did not show any effects. These data suggest the relative importance of the ADM C-terminal fragment, which contains a six-membered ring structure. Histamine release, induced by ADM, was significantly and dose-dependently inhibited by the addition of ADM-(22-52) (10(-5) M), Ca(2+) (0.5 to 2.0 mM), and benzalkonium chloride (3 to 7 microM), a selective inhibitor of Gi type G proteins. In contrast, PAMP (10(-5) M)-induced histamine release was not inhibited by Ca(2+). These results suggest that ADM induce histamine release via a putative ADM receptor in a manner sensitive to Gi-protein function and extracellular Ca(2+) concentration, and that PAMP might produce its effect by a different mechanism than ADM.

Alterations of intestinal motor responses to various stimuli after Nippostrongylus brasiliensis infection in rats: role of mast cells

Nippostrongylus brasiliensis infection induces jejunal mastocytosis associated with enteric nerve remodelling in rats. The aim of this study was to evaluate the intestinal motility responses to meals and to neurotransmitters involved in the control of gut motility (acetylcholine (carbachol), substance P and neurokinin A) in both control and N. brasiliensis-infected rats 30 days post-infection. All rats were equipped with NiCr electrodes in the jejunum to record myoelectrical activity. The duration of disruption of the jejunal migrating myoelectrical complexes (MMC) induced by the different stimuli was determined. Meal ingestion and substance P administration disrupted the MMC pattern for similar durations in the two groups. Carbachol and neurokinin A induced a significantly longer MMC disruption in post-infected rats than in controls (125 +/- 8.3 vs. 70 +/- 6 min for carbachol 100 microg kg-1 and 51 +/- 4 vs. 40 +/- 2 for neurokinin A 50 microg kg-1). The enhanced motor response in postinfected rats was reduced by previous mast cell stabilization with ketotifen or mast cell degranulation with compound BrX 537 A. In conclusion, the increased intestinal motor reactivity to carbachol and neurokinin A in post-N. brasiliensis-infected rats depends upon intestinal mast cell hyperplasia and degranulation.

The role of viruses in development or exacerbation of atopic asthma

Respiratory viral infections in early childhood have been linked to the development of persistent wheezing and asthma. Epidemiologic data indicate that, for the majority of children, virus-induced wheezing is a self-limited condition, with no long-term consequences. For a substantial minority, however, virus-induced wheezing is associated with persistent asthma and the potential for enhanced allergic sensitization. For the most part, this subset of patients is genetically predisposed; they are atopic children in whom respiratory viral infections trigger the early development of asthma by mechanisms that have not been fully elucidated. Both inflammatory and noninflammatory mechanisms may be involved. It does not appear that viral infection per se in early life is responsible for the induction of atopic asthma. Data from animal models provide support for the concept that enhanced allergic sensitization caused by increased uptake of allergen during infection may play a critical role, as well as T-cell-mediated immune responses to viral infection, which may favor eosinophilic inflammatory responses and the development of altered airway function to inhaled methacholine. Recent advances in our understanding of the interactions between respiratory viruses and the development of reactive airway disease offer new possibilities for preventive treatment in children at risk for developing persistent wheezing and asthma exacerbation as a result of viral infection.

Role of tachykinin NK2 receptors in normal and altered rectal sensitivity in rats

Irritable bowel syndrome is characterized by visceral hyperalgesia commonly associated with stress and inflammatory processes. We investigated the role of tachykinin NK2 receptors in the ability of trinitrobenzenesulphonic acid (TNBS) and stress to enhance the sensitivity of the rat rectum to distension using a selective tachykinin NK2 receptor antagonist (MEN 11420). Rats were fitted with electrodes implanted in the striated muscles of the abdomen. Rectal distension (RD) was performed with a balloon inflated by steps of 0.4 ml from 0 to 1.6 ml. Five groups were submitted to RD performed 3 days before and after intrarectal instillation of TNBS. Fifteen minutes before RD, rats were treated with saline or MEN 11420 (5 - 100 microg kg(-1) i.v.). Two other groups, submitted to 2 h restraint or sham stress sessions were randomly treated i.v. with saline or MEN 11420 (10 - 200 microg kg(-1)) prior to RD applied 20 min later. The basal response to RD was characterized by a significant increase in the number of abdominal contractions. This response occurred with a threshold volume of 0.8 ml and was dose-dependently reduced by MEN 11420 (5 - 100 microg kg(-1) i.v.). Rectal inflammation lowered the volume of distension producing abdominal contractions to 0.4 ml (allodynia). This effect was either reduced or suppressed by MEN 11420. A similar allodynia was observed after a stress session and this effect was reduced (49%) or suppressed by MEN 11420 at 200 and 100 microg kg(-1), respectively. Tachykinin NK2 receptors are involved in rectal hypersensitivity associated with inflammation and stress. British Journal of Pharmacology (2000) 129, 193 - 199

Serotonin in an antigen-induced arthritis of the rabbit temporomandibular joint

The aim was to investigate the joint perfusate concentration of serotonin (5-HT) in antigen-induced monoarthritis of the rabbit temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and knee joint. Thirty adult male New Zealand White rabbits, of whom eight were first used as healthy controls, were divided into TMJ and knee arthritis groups. Unilateral arthritis was induced with ovalbumin intra-articularly and the contralateral joint was sham-induced. The joints were perfused with saline (flow rate, 0.05 ml/min; 10-min intervals during 50 min) 3 weeks later and the 5-HT concentration analysed. After the perfusion, the joints were evaluated histologically. The 5-HT concentration in the initial perfusate from the arthritic TMJ was higher than in both sham-induced and healthy control joints, and from the knee joint arthritis higher than in sham-induced joints. No histological difference in the arthritis was observed between the two groups. This study shows that the 5-HT concentration found immediately after puncture is increased in antigen-induced arthritis of the rabbit TMJ and knee joint.

Strain dependence of the airway response to dry-gas hyperpnea challenge in the rat

The aim of the study was to investigate strain dependence and mechanisms of airway responses to dry-gas hyperpnea challenge in the rat. We studied responses in a strain that is hyperresponsive to methacholine, Fischer 344 (F-344); in two normoresponsive strains, Lewis and ACI; and in an atopic but normoresponsive strain, Brown Norway (BN). We examined the effects of a neurokinin (NK) 1-receptor (CP-99994), an NK2-receptor (SR-48968), and a leukotriene D4 (LTD4)-receptor antagonist (pranlukast) on responses to hyperpnea challenge in BN rats. The animals were ventilated with a tidal volume of 8 ml/kg and a frequency of 150 breaths/min with either a dry or humidified mixture of 5% CO2-95% O2 for 5 min for hyperpnea challenge, whereas responses to challenge were measured during spontaneous breathing. Pulmonary resistance increased after dry-gas challenge in BN and ACI but not in F-344 and Lewis rats. CP-99994, SR-48968, and pranlukast significantly attenuated the increase in pulmonary resistance after dry-gas challenge. There were no significant differences in responsiveness to airway challenge with LTD4 among the BN, F-344 and ACI rats. We conclude that responses to dry-gas hyperpnea challenge are strain dependent in rats and are mediated by NKs and LTD4.

Elastase in hyperpnea-induced guinea pig airway constriction

Aerosolized elastase has been shown to produce airway constriction in guinea pigs. In this study, we examined whether endogenous elastase plays a role in isocapnic hyperpnea-induced airway constriction using an elastase inhibitor, eglin-c. The study was divided into three experiments. In the first experiment, we used an elastase inhibitor, eglin-c, to suppress hyperpnea-induced bronchoconstriction. Twenty-two young male Hartley guinea pigs were divided into three groups: control (n=8), eglin-c(1) (a lower dose of eglin-c, n=7), and eglin-c(2) (a higher dose of eglin-c, n=7). In the second experiment, we tested whether eglin-c affects pulmonary function following 15 min of normal air ventilation in two groups of animals: control (n=8) and eglin-c (n=8). In the third experiment, animals were divided into two groups: control (n=7) and compound 48/80 (a mast cell degranulating agent, n=7). Airway function was examined in the anesthetized-paralyzed animal. In the first and third experiments, 15 min of isocapnic hyperpnea caused marked decreases in dynamic respiratory compliance, forced expiratory flow at 0.1 s and maximal expiratory flow at 50% total lung capacity, demonstrating hyperpnea-induced airway constriction. This bronchoconstriction was significantly attenuated by eglin-c and by pretreatment with compound 48/80. In the second experiment, eglin-c did not significantly affect bronchial function following normal air ventilation. These data suggest that elastase released from mast cells directly or indirectly induces hyperpnea-induced bronchoconstriction.

Role of mucosal mast cells in early vascular permeability changes of intestinal DTH reaction in the rat

Previously, it was shown that depletion and stabilization of the mucosal mast cell around the time of challenge were very effective in reducing delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH) reactions in the small intestine of the rat. The role of mucosal mast cells in the early component of intestinal DTH reaction was further investigated in this study. In vivo small intestinal vascular leakage and serum levels of rat mast cell protease II (RMCP II) were determined within 1 h after intragastric challenge of rats that had been sensitized with dinitrobenzene 5 days before. A separate group of rats was used to study vasopermeability in isolated vascularly perfused small intestine after in vitro challenge. To investigate the effects of mast cell stabilization on the early events of the DTH reaction, doxantrazole was used. The influence of sensory nerves was studied by means of neonatal capsaicin-induced depletion of sensory neuropetides. Within 1 h after challenge, a significant increase in vascular permeability was found in vivo as well as in vitro. This was associated with a DTH-specific increase in RMCP II in the serum, indicating mucosal mast cell activation. In addition, doxantrazole treatment and caspaicin pretreatment resulted in a significant inhibition of the DTH-induced vascular leakage and an increase in serum RMCP II. These findings are consistent with an important role for mucosal mast cells in early vascular leakage changes of intestinal DTH reactions. In addition, sensory nervous control of mucosal mast cell activation early after challenge is demonstrated.

Modulation by 5-HT1A receptors of the 5-HT2 receptor-mediated tachykinin-induced contraction of the rat trachea in vitro

1. In the Fisher 344 rat, tachykinins have been shown to cause the release of 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) from airway mast cells, which then causes direct smooth muscle activation as well as the release of acetylcholine from cholinergic nerves. The aim of the present study was to examine the modulatory effects of 5-HT receptors on the neurokinin A (NKA)-induced release of endogenous 5-HT and airway smooth muscle contraction in the isolated Fisher 344 rat trachea. 2. The selective 5-HT2 receptor antagonist ketanserin (0.1 microM) produced an almost complete inhibition of the contractions caused by NKA (n=4, P<0.0001, two-way ANOVA), and a significant rightward shift of the concentration-response curve to 5-HT (n=8, P<0.001, two-way ANOVA). 3. The partial agonist for 5-HT1A receptors, 8-OH-DPAT (1 microM), and the full agonist for 5-HT1 receptors, 5-CT (0.3 microM), potentiated the submaximal contractions induced by the 5-HT2 receptor agonist alpha-methyl-5-HT (0.1 microM) (n=4; P<0.005 and P<0.05, respectively). 8-OH-DPAT (1 microM), as well as the 5-HT1A receptor antagonists pMPPI, SDZ 216525 and NAN-190 (0.1 microM each), caused significant inhibition of the tracheal contractions induced both by NKA (10 nM-3 microM) and 5-HT (10 nM-10 microM) (n=4-10). This suggests that activation of 5-HT1A receptors potentiates the 5-HT2 receptor-mediated contractions. 4. SDZ 216525 (0.1 microM) significantly reduced the maximal contraction produced by 1 microM NKA (n=10, P< 0.001), without affecting the release of endogenous 5-HT. These data rule out the involvement of a 5-HT1A receptor-mediated positive feedback mechanism of the 5-HT release from mast cells. 5. Even in the presence of atropine (1 microM), 8-OH-DPAT (1 microM) further reduced the maximal NKA-induced contraction (n=4, P<0.0001), while the contractions of the rat isolated trachea induced by electrical field stimulation and the concentration-response curve to carbachol were unaffected by pMPPI (0.1 microM), SDZ 216525 (0.1 microM), NAN-190 (0.1 microM) and 8-OH-DPAT (1 microM) (n=4-6). These data demonstrate that the 5-HT1A receptor-mediated potentiation of contractile responses is not due to nonspecific inhibition of airway smooth muscle contraction or to modulation of postganglionic nerve activation. 6. The selective 5-HT1B/1D receptor antagonist GR 127935, the selective 5-HT3 receptor antagonist tropisetron and the selective 5-HT4 receptor antagonists SB 204070 and GR 113808 (0.1 microM each) had no effect on the concentration-response curve for NKA (n=6-10), ruling out the involvement of 5-HT1B/1D, 5-HT3 and 5-HT4 receptors. 7. The alpha-adrenoreceptor antagonist phentolamine (1 microM) had no effect on the 5-HT-induced contractions (n=4), ruling out the involvement of alpha-adrenoreceptors. 8. In conclusion, the tachykinin-induced contraction of the F334 rat isolated trachea is mediated by the stimulation of 5-HT2 receptors. Activation of 5-HT1A receptors located on airway smooth muscle potentiates the direct contractile effects of 5-HT2 receptor activation. The 5-HT1B/1D, 5-HT3 and 5-HT4 receptors are not involved in the NKA-induced contraction of rat airways.

Role of 5-hydroxytryptamine and mast cells in the tachykinin-induced contraction of rat trachea in vitro

The in vivo bronchoconstrictor effect of tachykinins in Fisher 344 rats is accompanied by release into the airways of 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT). 5-HT is possibly derived from mast cells. In the present study the presumed mast cell-tachykinin interaction was studied in isolated trachea from Fisher 344 rats. Contractions induced by neurokinin A were largely reduced by the 5-HT antagonist methysergide, partially reduced by atropine, but not affected by hexamethonium or tetrodotoxin. Methysergide also inhibited the contractions induced by substance P, the tachykinin NK1 receptor agonist Ac[Arg6, Sar9, Met(O2)11]substance P-(6-11) and the mast cell depleting compound 48/80. Methysergide had no effect on contractions induced by carbachol or electrical field stimulation. Atropine significantly reduced contractions to 5-HT and completely inhibited contractions induced by electrical field stimulation. Histamine had no contractile effect. In vivo pretreatment with compound 48/80 significantly reduced the in vitro contractions to neurokinin A. Contractions to capsaicin were inhibited by methysergide and the tachykinin NK1 receptor antagonist (+/-)-RP67580 ((3alphaR,7alphaR)-(7,7-diphenyl-2-(1-imino-2-(2-methoxyp henylethyl)-perhydraisoinotol-4-one))). Substance P and neurokinin A caused 5-HT release in the organ bath, in a concentration- and time-dependent way. Atropine did not affect 5-HT release. Morphometric analysis showed that substance P and neurokinin A, but not carbachol, caused a significant increase in the number of degranulating mast cells in the muscular/submuscular region. In conclusion, tachykinins contract Fisher 344 rat trachea by releasing 5-HT from mast cells, an effect mediated by a tachykinin NK1 receptor.

Sensory nerve-mediated inhibitory responses in airways of F344 rats

We recently described a sensory nerve inhibitory system that mediates relaxation in the airways of Sprague-Dawley rats. Results of several studies have shown that this system protects the lungs against injury induced by toxic stimuli. Whether a similar inhibitory system exists in the airways of Fischer 344 (F344) rats is unknown. Because this rat strain is used extensively in lung toxicological research, the purpose of this study was to determine whether a sensory nerve inhibitory system exists in intrapulmonary bronchi and tracheae isolated from F344 rats. In intrapulmonary bronchi at resting tone, substance P (1.0 microM) evoked a transient contraction that was inhibited by the 5-HT2A receptor antagonist, ketanserin. Exposing airway segments to compound 48/80 to degranulate mast cells also abolished substance P-induced contractions. Inhibition of cyclooxygenase with meclofenamate augmented markedly the contraction to substance P in the intrapulmonary bronchi. In intrapulmonary bronchi that were contracted with bethanechol, substance P evoked a biphasic response characterized by an increase in tension above that induced by bethanechol followed by relaxation. Incubation of the airways with ketanserin abolished the contractile portion of the response; relaxation responses were augmented after ketanserin. In contracted intrapulmonary bronchi that had been treated with compound 48/80, substance P and capsaicin caused relaxation responses that were inhibited markedly or were nearly abolished by the NK1 receptor antagonist, RP67580, by meclofenamate, and by denuding the epithelium. Capsaicin-induced relaxation responses also were abolished by desensitization of C-fibers with capsaicin. Only ketanserin-sensitive contractile responses were observed in response to substance P in tracheal segments. We conclude that a sensory nerve inhibitory system exists in the intrapulmonary airways of F344 rats. The presence of this inhibitory system in F344 rat airways may play a protective role against lung injury induced by inhaled toxicants.

Role of mast cell histamine in the formation of rat paw edema: a microdialysis study

We determined the endogenous histamine concentration in the subplantar space of rat hind paws using an in vivo microdialysis technique. A microdialysis probe was implanted into the rat hind paw and the histamine content in dialysates was measured by high performance liquid chromatography-fluorometry. In wild type (+/+) rats, the histamine output (basal level 25.7 +/- 0.9 pmol/ml) increased 115-, 199- and 426-fold rapidly after subplantar injection of compound 48/80 at doses of 0.5, 5 and 50 microg/paw, respectively. In genetically mast cell-deficient (Ws/Ws) rats, the basal level of histamine was one third of that obtained from +/+ rats, and was not increased by compound 48/80 injection. With this treatment, marked, dose dependent, but relatively gradual development of the paw edema was found in +/+ rats. However, no edema formation was observed in Ws/Ws rats. Histological observations showed neither mast cells nor edema to be present in the paw skin of Ws/Ws rats. These findings indicate the critical role of histamine as a trigger for the development of edema in vivo. In addition, Ws/Ws rats will provide important information as to the roles of mast cells in the inflammatory response.

Role of the 5-HT receptor in neurogenic inflammation in Fisher 344 rat airways

The increased plasma protein extravasation in the airways of Fisher 344 rats upon stimulation of sensory nerves is in part due to the degranulation of mast cells. In this study, we examined the role of 5-HT and histamine receptors in the capsaicin-induced increase in plasma protein extravasation in Fisher 344 rat airways, using Evans blue as an intravascular marker. We found that only 5-HT2 receptor agonists increased baseline plasma protein extravasation. Furthermore, the 5-HT2 receptor antagonist ketanserin reduced the capsaicin-induced increase in plasma protein extravasation. Combining ketanserin with the tachykinin NK1 receptor antagonist (+/-)-RP 67,580 ((3alphaR,7alphaR)-(7,7-diphenyl-2(1-imino-2-(2-methoxyph enylethyl)-perhydraisoinositol-4-one))) abolished the neurogenic increase in plasma protein extravasation. Finally, using selective receptor agonists and antagonists, we demonstrated that there was no modulation of the capsaicin-induced rise in plasma protein extravasation by stimulation of either histamine receptors or 5-HT1, 5-HT3 and 5-HT4 receptors. We conclude that, in the airways of Fisher 344 rats, the neurogenic increase in plasma protein extravasation is caused by activation of both tachykinin NK1 receptors and 5-HT2 receptors.

Pulmonary C-fiber activation before and after peptidase inhibition in rats

Inhibition of peptidases within the lungs not only potentiates the effects of neuropeptides released from C-fibers but also the effects of bradykinin and capsaicin both of which stimulate C-fibers. To determine if peptidase inhibition potentiates C-fiber activation, we challenged pulmonary C-fibers in rats with capsaicin or bradykinin before and after inhibition of neutral endopeptidase (NEP) or angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE). Inhibition of NEP by phosphoramidon (10 mg/kg, i.v.) potentiated the effect of capsaicin (0.5-1 micrograms, i.v.) on C-fiber activity but did not change the response to bradykinin (1-2 micrograms, i.v.). Inhibition of ACE by captopril (5 mg/kg, i.v.) potentiated C-fiber activation by either bradykinin or capsaicin. Aerosol administration of either phosphoramidon (1 x 10(-5) M, 2 min) or captopril (4.6 x 10(-3) M, 2 min) potentiated C-fiber activation by capsaicin aerosol (1.6 x 10(-4) M, 1 min) but not by bradykinin aerosol (9.4 x 10(-5) M, 1 min). Therefore, inhibition of NEP or ACE may potentiate airway obstructive mechanisms initiated by C-fiber stimulation.

Neural mechanisms and axon reflexes in asthma. Where are we?

For many years, asthma has been classified as a "neural" disease, with an imbalance between constrictor and dilator nerves being responsible for the symptomatology. Although, nowadays, asthma is recognized as an inflammatory disorder of the airways, neural mechanisms remain very important; axon reflexes, in particular, have received a lot of attention in recent years. In this commentary, an overview is given on the innervation of the airways and its relevance in asthma, and potential new insights in airways innervation are discussed. In a second part, the role of axon reflexes is highlighted. Although neuropeptides such as substance P and neurokinin A are present in human airways, where they produce many of the features characteristic of asthma, and although there is an elevation of their content in induced sputum from asthmatics, there is still no clear direct evidence for the existence of operational axon reflexes in human airways. Most of the research focused on this subject is performed in guinea pigs, where such an axon reflex clearly operates in the airways. In these animals, different receptors have been identified on C-fiber endings, which, upon stimulation, cause inhibition of neuropeptide release. Some of these receptors have also been identified on human airway nerves. Therefore, it has been suggested that modulation of axon reflexes could be of potential benefit in asthma treatment. Indeed, some drugs (e.g. sodium cromoglycate, nedocromil sodium, and ketotifen), which have been demonstrated to partially inhibit neuropeptide release in guinea pig airways, have anti-inflammatory effects on neuropeptide release in guinea pig airways, do not seem to have any anti-inflammatory effects in human asthma. Other drugs, however, such as beta2-mimetics, which have a much more pronounced inhibitory effect in asthma. In conclusion, although there is a lot of indirect evidence for the existence of axon reflex mechanisms in human airways, most of the data now available are derived from animal studies. The key question of whether axon reflexes are operational in human airways remains unanswered. Hopefully, the near future will bring a solution to this enigma with the introduction of very potent tachykinin antagonists for the treatment of human asthma.

Delayed-type hypersensitivity-induced increase in vascular permeability in the mouse small intestine: inhibition by depletion of sensory neuropeptides and NK1 receptor blockade

1. This study investigates the effects of capsaicin-induced depletion of sensory neuropeptides and of neurokinin1 (NK1) receptor blockade on delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH)-induced changes of vascular permeability in the small intestine of the mouse. 2. The DTH reaction in the small intestine was elicited by dinitrofluorobenzene (DNFB)-contact sensitization followed by oral dinitrobenzene sulphonic acid (DNBS) challenge. To assess vascular leakage the accumulation of the plasma marker, Evans blue (EB), was measured 2, 24 and 48 h after the challenge. 3. The small intestinal DTH reaction was characterized by a significant increase in vascular permeability 24 h after the challenge of previously sensitized mice when compared to vehicle-sensitized mice (P < 0.05, ANOVA). Capsaicin-induced depletion of sensory neuropeptides, two weeks before the sensitization, completely inhibited the DTH-induced increase in small intestinal vascular permeability at 24 h (P < 0.05, ANOVA). Vehicle/control: 108.2 +/- 8.6 ng EB mg-1 dry weight; vehicle/DTH 207.8 +/- 25.1 ng EB mg-1 dry weight; capsaicin/control: 65.8 +/- 11.9 ng EB mg-1 dry weight; capsaicin/DTH: 84.3 +/- 7.6 ng EB mg-1 dry weight. 4. The tachykinins, substance P and neurokinin A (1.5 to 50 x 10(-11) mol per mouse, i.v.), induced an increase in vascular leakage in the small intestine of naive mice. The specific NK1 receptor antagonist, RP67580 (10(-9) mol per mouse, i.v.) was the most effective in reducing the substance P-induced plasma extravasation when compared with other NK receptor antagonists, FK224 and FK888. 5. Treatment of DNFB-sensitized mice with RP67580 (10-9 mol per mouse, i.v.) immediately before and 1 h after the DNBS challenge resulted in a significant reduction of the DTH-induced increase in vascular permeability at 24 h (vehicle/control: 107.5 +/- 8.8 ng EB mg-1 dry weight; RP67580/control:95.4 +/- 5.4 ng EB mg-1 dry weight; vehicle/DTH: 206.6 +/- 22.6 ng EB mg-1 dry weight; RP67580/DTH:132.6 +/- 13.6 ng EB mg-1 dry weight, P<0.05, ANOVA).6. These results suggest that sensory nerves are involved in the development of small intestinal DTH reactions in the mouse. NK1 receptors could play an important role in the initiation of the DTH-induced changes in vascular leakage.

Effects of peptidase inhibitors on bradykinin-induced bronchoconstriction in the rat

Objectives of this study were to determine if aerosolized bradykinin causes bronchoconstriction in anesthetized, mechanically ventilated rats, and if pretreatment with enalaprilat, an inhibitor of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), or phosphoramidon, an inhibitor of endopeptidase 24.11 (EP 24.11), alters the response. We found that aerosolized bradykinin elicited a reproducible bronchoconstrictor response that was significantly amplified by pretreatment with aerosolized enalaprilat or phosphoramidon. Neither inhibitor alone affected airway tone or caused nonspecific airway hyperreactivity. These findings indicate that both ACE and EP 24.11 contribute to bradykinin degradation in rat airways.