Isolation and structure of pro-methionine-enkephalin: Potential enkephalin precursor from porcine hypothalamus

A hexapeptide that we have named pro-methionine-enkephalin has been isolated from acid extracts of porcine hypothalami and found to have the amino acid sequence H-Tyr-Gly-Gly-Phe-Met(O)-Arg-OH. This peptide is not a fragment of either porcine beta-lipotropin or beta-endorphin, which suggests that it could be a precursor of [Met]enkephalin in the brain by a pathway differing from the one usually postulated. The existence of still larger precursors of [Met]enkephalin, perhaps related to the recently reported alpha-neo-endorphin, is strongly implied by these studies. Synthetic H-Tyr-Gly-Gly-Phe-Met-Arg-OH exhibited low, but significant, opiate activity in vitro.

Effect of a Somatostatin Analogue on Trophic Hormone Levels in Acromegalic Patients with Elevated hGH after Adrenomectomy and Treatment with Bromocriptine

Five female acromegalic patients who had undergone surgical adenomectomy, but still had elevated hGH serum levels, were treated with bromocriptine, 5-15 mg daily, for at least 4 months without a satisfactory response. In an attempt to lower serum hGH levels, p-NH2-Phe4-D-Trp8-somatostatin was administered, 100 micrograms as an i.v. bolus, followed by infusion of 250 micrograms over a 4 hour period. The analogue decreased hGH levels by about 50% in 3 out of 5 patients, both during bromocriptine treatment and also in its absence. Of the remaining two patients, one showed a decrease in hGH levels in response to the analogue only during bromocriptine treatment and the other only without it. Saline infusion after bromocriptine administration did not induce a decrease in hGH levels in three of these patients. Somatostatin analogue caused a fall in serum insulin levels in all but one patient, who had diabetes mellitus and in whom serum insulin was undetectable. Both hGH and insulin levels showed a significant rebound after infusion of the analogue, but returned to basal levels within 24 hours. Prolactin did not change during the analogue infusion in 4 patients with normal PRL levels. However, in one patient in whom prolactin and hGH levels were elevated during bromocriptine treatment, the infusion of somatostatin analogue decreased both hormones. The analogue induced no changes in serum TSH, FSH and LH levels of any of the patients.

Glucagon-like peptide-1, but not glucose-dependent insulinotropic peptide, inhibits glucagon secretion via somatostatin (receptor subtype 2) in the perfused rat pancreas

AIMS/HYPOTHESIS

The glucose-lowering effect of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) is based not only upon its potent insulinotropic actions but also on its ability to restrain glucagon secretion. Surprisingly, the closely related glucose-dependent insulinotropic peptide (GIP) stimulates glucagon release. We examined whether the islet hormone somatostatin, which strongly inhibits glucagon secretion, is involved in this divergent behaviour.

METHODS

At 1.5 mmol/l glucose and therefore minimal insulin secretion, the glucagon, insulin and somatostatin responses to 20 mmol/l glucose, GLP-1, GIP and somatostatin were studied in the presence of a high-affinity monoclonal somatostatin antibody and of a highly specific somatostatin receptor subtype 2 (SSTR2) antagonist (PRL-2903) in the isolated perfused rat pancreas.

RESULTS

In control experiments, GLP-1 at 1 and 10 nmol/l reduced glucagon secretion significantly to 59.0 +/- 6.3% (p < 0.004; n = 5; SSTR2 series; each vs pre-infusion level) and to 48.0 +/- 2.6% (p < 0.001; n = 6; somatostatin antibody series) respectively. During somatostatin antibody administration, GLP-1 still inhibited glucagon secretion significantly, but the effect was less pronounced than in control experiments (p < 0.018). Co-infusion of the SSTR2 antagonist completely abolished the GLP-1-induced suppression of glucagon secretion. In contrast, neither the GIP-induced stimulation of glucagon release nor its inhibition by 20 mmol/l glucose was altered by somatostatin antibody or SSTR2 antagonist administration.

CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION

We conclude that GLP-1 is capable of inhibiting glucagon secretion even in the absence of secretory products from the beta cell. It is highly likely that this is mediated via somatostatin interacting with SSTR2 on rat alpha cells. In contrast, GIP and glucose seem to influence the alpha cell independently of somatostatin secretion.

Somatostatin analogues and multiple receptors: possible physiological roles

The availability of transfected cell lines expressing the five cloned somatostatin receptors has allowed extensive families of synthetic analogues to be screened for their binding affinities to these receptors. Cyclic octapeptides in the octreotide series have high affinity for sstr2 and low affinity for sstr1 and sstr4. Modifications to these analogues can have profound effects on their residual affinity for sstr3 and sstr5. Several linear peptides, incorporating the critical core-D-Trp-Lys-sequence of all active analogues, exhibit selectivity for either sstr3, sstr5 or both, but little affinity for the other three. From these analogues we have assembled a panel of compounds with a useful degree of specificity for sstr2, sstr3 and sstr5 and these have been used to evaluate receptor involvement in various physiological processes. Inhibition of pituitary growth hormone release correlates completely with sstr2 affinity and it appears from preliminary results that inhibition of pancreatic glucagon release is also sstr2 mediated. Effects on gastric acid secretion show a high degree of dependence on sstr2 affinity. Inhibition in vivo by somatostatin of insulin release, amylase release and binding to rat pancreatic acinar cells is highly correlated with sstr5 receptor affinity. Gastric smooth muscle cells have particularly high affinity for sstr3 receptor ligands. The availability of receptor-specific ligands is proving to be of great value in elucidating the physiological roles of each receptor. It is anticipated that these and future generations of analogues will have distinct therapeutic advantages over somatostatin itself and presently available cyclic octapeptides.

Somatostatin receptor subtypes mediate contractility on human colonic smooth muscle cells

This study demonstrates the expression of functional somatostatin receptor (sstr) subtypes in human circular and longitudinal colonic smooth muscle cells (SMC). Native somatostatin (SS) and sstr subtype-specific analogues were used to characterize the sstr subtypes present in both cell types by contraction/relaxation studies. Qualitative and quantitative mRNA analysis and immunohistochemistry of sstr subtypes were also carried out. sstr subtype 2 mRNA was expressed in circular SMC, and various levels of subtypes 1, 2 and 3 mRNA were expressed in longitudinal colonic SMC. Native SS and each subtype-specific analogue exerted a modest, but significant, contraction, although inhibition of carbachol-induced contraction (relaxation) was the main effect on SMC from both layers. CH-288, a sstr subtype 1-specific analogue, and octreotide, a sstr subtype 2-specific analogue, were the most effective relaxant analogues on longitudinal and circular SMC, respectively. sstr subtypes display a distinct expression pattern on human colonic SMC; on circular SMC, subtype 2 is the only sstr, whereas sstr subtypes 1, 2 and 3 are expressed on human SMC isolated from the longitudinal layer. The contractile effects of SS are mediated through sstr subtype 2 and sstr subtype 1 on circular and longitudinal human colonic SMC, respectively.

Structural requirements at the N-terminus of urotensin II octapeptides

Urotensin II is the latest of a growing list of peptides exhibiting potent cardiovascular effects. It is an extremely potent vasoconstrictor in primates; its excretion is elevated in hypertensive patients thus suggesting therapeutic potential for urotensin II analogues, particularly receptor antagonists. In the present study, a number of interesting structural features pertaining to the N-terminus of urotensin II have been evaluated for binding to cloned human and rat urotensin II receptors and functional effects on rat upper thoracic aorta smooth muscle preparations. Shortened octapeptides retained full binding affinities and functional activities, did not require a free N-terminal amino group, and could tolerate an amidated C-terminus. The N-terminal Asp residue present in the octapeptides did not require a negatively charged side chain, merely one which contained a hydrogen bond acceptor CO group which could be present at a variety of positions on the side chain. The side chain could be constrained into a trans-olefinic configuration with full retention of potency, but potency was lost in the cis configuration. N-terminal aromatic amino substituted with polar groups such as OH and NO(2) also resulted in high affinity analogues. Overall, the correlation between binding affinities for the human and rat receptors was quite good. These findings could be of value in the development of more potent urotensin II receptor antagonists based on the previously identified somatostatin antagonist octapeptides which we have recently found, function as relatively weak urotensin II antagonists.

Molecular basis for selectivity of high affinity peptide antagonists for the gastrin-releasing peptide receptor

Few gastrointestinal hormones/neurotransmitters have high affinity peptide receptor antagonists, and little is known about the molecular basis of their selectivity or affinity. The receptor mediating the action of the mammalian bombesin (Bn) peptide, gastrin-releasing peptide receptor (GRPR), is an exception, because numerous classes of peptide antagonists are described. To investigate the molecular basis for their high affinity for the GRPR, two classes of peptide antagonists, a statine analogue, JMV594 ([d-Phe(6),Stat(13)]Bn(6-14)), and a pseudopeptide analogue, JMV641 (d-Phe-Gln-Trp-Ala-Val-Gly-His-Leupsi(CHOH-CH(2))-(CH(2))(2)-CH(3)), were studied. Each had high affinity for the GRPR and >3,000-fold selectivity for GRPR over the closely related neuromedin B receptor (NMBR). To investigate the basis for this, we used a chimeric receptor approach to make both GRPR loss of affinity and NMBR gain of affinity chimeras and a site-directed mutagenesis approach. Chimeric or mutated receptors were transiently expressed in Balb/c 3T3. Only substitution of the fourth extracellular (EC) domain of the GRPR by the comparable NMBR domain markedly decreased the affinity for both antagonists. Substituting the fourth EC domain of NMBR into the GRPR resulted in a 300-fold gain in affinity for JMV594 and an 11-fold gain for JMV641. Each of the 11 amino acid differences between the GRPR and NMBR in this domain were exchanged. The substitutions of Thr(297) in GRPR by Pro from the comparable position in NMBR, Phe(302) by Met, and Ser(305) by Thr decreased the affinity of each antagonist. Simultaneous replacement of Thr(297), Phe(302), and Ser(305) in GRPR by the three comparable NMBR amino acids caused a 500-fold decrease in affinity for both antagonists. Replacing the comparable three amino acids in NMBR by those from GRPR caused a gain in affinity for each antagonist. Receptor modeling showed that each of these three amino acids faced inward and was within 5 A of the putative binding pocket. These results demonstrate that differences in the fourth EC domain of the mammalian Bn receptors are responsible for the selectivity of these two peptide antagonists. They demonstrate that Thr(297), Phe(302), and Ser(305) of the fourth EC domain of GRPR are the critical residues for determining GRPR selectivity and suggest that both receptor-ligand cation-pi interactions and hydrogen bonding are important for their high affinity interaction.

Analysis of responses to hAmylin, hCGRP, and hADM in isolated resistance arteries from the mesenteric vascular bed of the rat

Responses to human calcitonin gene-related peptide (hCGRP) and human adrenomedullin (hADM) hAmylin were investigated in isolated mesenteric resistance arteries from the rat. The results of the present investigation show that hCGRP, hAmylin, and hADM induce dose-related vasodilator responses in isolated resistance arteries from the rat mesenteric vascular bed. Vasodilator responses to hCGRP and hAmylin were not altered after denuding the vascular endothelium, after administration of the nitric oxide synthase inhibitor L-NA, or after administration of the soluble guanylate cyclase inhibitor ODQ, suggesting that vasodilator responses to hCGRP and hAmylin are not mediated by the release of nitric oxide from the vascular endothelium and the subsequent increase in cGMP. Vasodilator responses to hCGRP, hAmylin, and hADM were not altered by the vascular selective K+(ATP) channel antagonist U-37883A. The role of the CGRP1 receptor was investigated and responses to hCGRP and hAmylin, but not hADM, were significantly reduced following administration of hCGRP-(8-37). Moreover, vasodilator responses to hCGRP and hAmylin, but not hADM, were significantly reduced by hAmylin-(8-37), suggesting that an hAmylin-(8-37)-sensitive receptor mediates responses to hCGRP and hAmylin in the rat mesenteric artery. These data suggest that hCGRP and hAmylin have direct vasodilator effects in the isolated mesenteric resistance artery that are mediated by hAmylin-(8-37)- and hCGRP-(8-37)-sensitive receptors.

GI side-effects of a possible therapeutic GRF analogue in monkeys are likely due to VIP receptor agonist activity

Growth hormone (GH) is used or is being evaluated for efficacy in treatment of short stature, aspects of aging, cardiac disorders, Crohn's disease, and short bowel syndrome. Therefore, we synthesized several stable growth hormone-releasing factor (GRF) analogues that could be therapeutically useful. One potent analog, [D-Ala(2),Aib(8, 18,)Ala(9, 15, 16, 22, 24-26,)Gab(27)]hGRF(1-27)NH(2) (GRF-6), with prolonged infusion caused severe diarrhea in monkeys; however, it had no side-effects in rats. Because GRF has similarity to VIP/PACAP and VIPomas cause diarrhea, this study investigated the ability of this and other GRF analogues to interact with the VIP/PACAP receptors. Rat VPAC(1)-R (rVPAC(1)-R), human VPAC(1)-R (hVPAC(1)-R), rVPAC(2)-R and hVPAC(2)-R stably transfected CHO and PANC 1 cells were made and T47D breast cancer cells containing native human VPAC(1)-R and AR4-2J cells containing PAC(1)-R were used. hGRF(1-29)NH(2) had low affinity for both rVPAC(1)-R and rVPAC(2)-R while VIP had a high affinity for both receptors. GRF-6 had a low affinity for both rVPAC(1)-R and rVPAC(2)-R and very low affinity for the rPAC(1)-R. VIP had a high affinity, whereas hGRF(1-29)NH(2) had a low affinity for both hVPAC(1)-R and hVPAC(2)-R. In contrast GRF-6, while having a low affinity for hVPAC(2)-R, had relatively higher affinity for the hVPAC(1)-R. In guinea pig pancreatic acini, all GRF analogues were full agonists at the VPAC(1)-R causing enzyme secretion. These results demonstrate that in contrast to native hGRF(1-29)NH(2,) GRF-6 has a relatively high affinity for the human VPAC(1)-R but not for the human VPAC(2)-R, rat VPAC(1)-R, rat VPAC(2)-R or rat PAC(1)-R. These results suggest that the substituted GRF analog, GRF-6, likely causes the diarrheal side-effects in monkeys by interacting with the VPAC(1)-R. Furthermore, they demonstrate significant species differences can exist for possible therapeutic peptide agonists of the VIP/PACAP/GRF receptor family and that it is essential that receptor affinity assessments be performed in human cells or from a closely related species.

Systemic administration of adrenomedullin(27-52) increases bone volume and strength in male mice

Adrenomedullin is a 52-amino acid peptide first described in a human phaeochromocytoma but since been found to be present in many tissues, including the vascular system and bone. Because of its structural similarity to amylin and calcitonin gene-related peptide, both of which have actions on bone cells, we have previously assessed the effects of adrenomedullin on the skeleton, and found that it increases osteoblast proliferation in vitro and bone formation following local injection in vivo. The present study carries this work forward by assessing the effects on bone of the systemic administration of a fragment of this peptide lacking the structural requirements for vasodilator activity. Two groups of 20 adult male mice received 20 injections of human adrenomedullin(27-52) 8.1 microg or vehicle over a 4-week period and bone histomorphometry and strength were assessed. In the tibia, adrenomedullin(27-52) produced increases in the indices of osteoblast activity, osteoid perimeter and osteoblast perimeter (P<0.05 for both using Student's t-test). Osteoclast perimeter was not affected. There was a 21% increase in cortical width and a 45% increase in trabecular bone volume in animals treated with adrenomedullin(27-52) (P<0.002 for both). Assessment of bone strength by three-point bending of the humerus showed both the maximal force and the displacement to the point of failure were increased in the animals treated with adrenomedullin(27-52) (P<0.03 for both). There was also a significant increase in the thickness of the epiphyseal growth plate. No adverse effects of the treatment were noted. It is concluded that adrenomedullin(27-52) acts as an anabolic agent on bone. These findings may be relevant to the normal regulation of bone mass and to the design of agents for the treatment of osteoporosis.

Regulation of gastric function by endogenous gastrin releasing peptide in humans: studies with a specific gastrin releasing peptide receptor antagonist

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

The main goal of our study was to characterise the activity of BIM26226 as a peripheral gastrin releasing peptide (GRP) receptor antagonist in healthy human subjects and to determine if endogenous GRP is a physiological regulator of gastric acid secretion and gastrin release.

METHODS

Our study consisted of three parts. In part I, subjects received saline or BIM26226 followed by graded doses of intravenous human GRP in a four period crossover design. In part II, subjects received BIM26226 or saline during oral meal ingestion or modified sham feeding. In part III, subjects received an acidified meal in the presence and absence of BIM26226 in a two period crossover design. In addition, gastrin and somatostatin mRNA were measured in biopsy specimens during saline and BIM26226 infusion.

RESULTS

BIM26226 dose dependently inhibited GRP induced acid output. Acid secretion after oral liquid meal intake and sham feeding was significantly inhibited by BIM26226 (p<0.01) whereas plasma gastrin release remained unchanged. Gastrin and somatostatin mRNAs were not significantly different after saline or BIM26226.

CONCLUSIONS

BIM26226 is a potent GRP antagonist in humans. Endogenous GRP may be a physiological regulator of gastric acid secretion. Gastrin release does not seem to be under the control of GRP.

GRP-receptor-mediated signal transduction, gene expression and DNA synthesis in the human pancreatic adenocarcinoma cell line HPAF

Bombesin-like peptides have been implicated as growth factors in various human cancers. Human adenocarcinoma cell lines (Capan-1, Capan-2, MiaPaCa-2 and HPAF) were tested to determine whether they express the gastrin-releasing peptide-preferring bombesin receptor (GRPR) and neuromedin B-preferring bombesin receptor (NMBR). Using RT-PCR the highest level of GRP receptor mRNA was found in HPAF cells. NMB receptor mRNA expression moderate in all cell lines investigated. We therefore selected the HPAF cell line to investigate whether bombesin treatment affects intracellular Ca(2+) ([Ca(2+)](i)), cAMP level, DNA synthesis as a measure of cell proliferation, and expression of three transcription factors: c-fos, c-myc and high mobility group protein IY (HMG-I(Y)).Bombesin administration led to an immediate increase in free intracellular Ca(2+) concentration ([Ca(2+)](i)) but did not change cAMP levels. The peptide also enhanced [(3)H]thymidine incorporation in HPAF cells (but not in the other cell lines), an effect that was concentration dependent, reaching 36 +/- 5% stimulation over control values at 24 h with an EC(50) of 2.27 x 10(-12) M. Furthermore, bombesin stimulated c-fos, c-myc and HMG-I(Y) expression in a time-dependent manner: the c-fos mRNA level increased dramatically in the first 30 min of exposure, then returned to basal level within 2 h, while the c-myc and HMG-I(Y) mRNA levels peaked at 2 h and 4h, respectively. All actions of bombesin were blocked by BME (D-Phe(6)-bombesin-(6-13)-methylester), a selective GRP receptor antagonist, but not by the NMB receptor antagonist BIM-23127 (D-Nal-cyclo[Cys-Tyr-D-Trp-Orn-Val-Cys]-Nal-NH(2)). We conclude that HPAF cells express mRNA for GRP receptors and that functional receptors are present in the cell membrane. The occupation of these receptors leads to a sequence of intracellular events involving rapid mobilization of intracellular Ca(2+), expression of c-fos, c-myc and HMG-I(Y) mRNA, and stimulation of cell proliferation. Conversely, although NMB receptor mRNA can be detected, its actual translation to functional receptors does not reach a detectable level.

Antitumor and antiangiogenic effects of somatostatin receptor-targeted in situ radiation with (111)In-DTPA-JIC 2DL

INTRODUCTION

Expression of somatostatin receptor subtype 2 (sst 2) in angiogenic tumor vessels appears to be homogeneous, while tumor cell expression of this receptor is often heterogeneous. We have developed a novel in vitro three-dimensional tumor angiogenesis model to study the antitumor and the antiangiogenic effects of radiolabeled somatostatin analogs. We hypothesized that targeted in situ radiation with an Auger electron-emitting radiolabeled somatostatin analog would produce receptor-specific cytotoxicity in sst 2-expressing cells.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

IMR-32 human neuroblastoma (sst 2-positive) and MDA MB-231 human breast cancer (sst 2-negative) xenografts were created in nude mice from monolayer cell cultures. Fragments of these tumors were embedded in three-dimensional fibrin gels supplemented with endothelial growth media and incubated for a period of 14 days. Tumor fragments were treated with 50 microCi/ml of (111)In-JIC 2DL, a sst 2-preferring somatostatin analog, or medium on Day 1. Initial angiogenic activity was determined at 48 h and the mean angiogenic score and tumoricidal responses were assessed on Day 14.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSION

Tumoricidal effects of (111)In-JIC 2DL were seen only in sst 2-positive IMR-32 tumors. However, the angiogenic response was inhibited in both IMR-32 and MDA MB-231 tumors independent of the tumor cells' sst 2 status. Somatostatin receptor-mediated in situ radiation therapy has profound cytotoxic effects on angiogenic blood vessels and sst 2-expressing tumor cells.

N-Methyl scan of somatostatin octapeptide agonists produces interesting effects on receptor subtype specificity

The search for synthetic analogues of somatostatin which exhibit selective affinities for the five receptor subtypes is of considerable basic and therapeutic interest and has generated a large number of potent agonist analogues with a wide spectrum of binding profiles. In the past, conformational restriction of side chain groups and the peptide backbone has yielded the most interesting results. Under the latter category and as part of the present study, we were interested in the potential effects of N-methylation of peptide bond NH groups on binding affinity since this approach had not been systematically examined with these peptides. This was aided by new chemistries for introducing an N-Me group during regular solid-phase peptide synthesis using Boc protection. A number of interesting effects were noted on relative binding affinities of the two series of agonist sequences chosen, DPhe(5)(or Tyr(5))-c[Cys(6)-Phe(7)-DTrp(8)-Lys(9)-Thr(10)-Cys(11)]Thr(12)-NH(2) (SRIF numbering), at the five known human somatostatin receptors transfected into and stably expressed by CHO cells. N-Methylation of residues 7 (Phe), 10 (Thr), 11 (Cys), and 12 (Thr) largely destroyed affinities for all five receptors. N-Methylation of DTrp in the DPhe series gave an analogue with extraordinarily high affinity for the type 5 receptor for which it was also quite selective. N-Methylation of Lys in both series resulted in retention of type 2 affinity despite this residue constituting the "active center" of somatostatin peptides. N-Methylation of either the N-terminal Tyr residue or of Cys(6) in the Tyr series resulted in analogues with extraordinarily high affinity for the type 3 receptor, also with a degree of specificity. N-Methylation of the peptide bond constrains the conformational space of the amino acid and eliminates the possibility of donor hydrogen bond formation from the amide linkage. The beta-bend conformation of the agonists around DTrp-Lys is stabilized by a transannular intramolecular hydrogen bond(s) between Phe(7) and Thr(10) so methylation of these residues eliminates this source of stabilization. It is expected that several of these analogues will provide additional tools for determining some of the physiological roles played by type 3 and 5 somatostatin receptors which are still far from being fully elucidated.

Highly potent and subtype selective ligands derived by N-methyl scan of a somatostatin antagonist

The search for synthetic peptide analogues of somatostatin (SRIF) which exhibit selective affinities for the five known receptor subtypes (sst1-5) has generated a large number of potent agonists. Some of these agonists display good subtype selectivities and affinities for the subtypes 1, 2, 3, and 5, including analogues created by N-methyl amino acid substitutions in a standard octapeptide analogue format. We have now extended this peptide backbone N-methylation approach to a potent somatostatin receptor antagonist series using the antagonist Cpa-cyclo(DCys-Pal-DTrp-Lys-Thr-Cys)-Nal-NH2 9 reported from this laboratory as the lead structure. Synthetic analogues were tested for their ability to inhibit somatostatin-stimulated GH release from rat pituitary cells in culture and to displace 125I-labeled somatostatin from CHO cells transfected with the five known human somatostatin receptors. Several interesting observations resulted from the study. N-Methylation at the Lys(9) residue (5) increased the rat GH release inhibitory potency nearly 4-fold to 0.73 nM but resulted in little change in the binding affinity for human type 2 receptor. This analogue also had a high affinity of 5.98 nM for sst5 receptor (compared to 1.4 nM for somatostatin itself) and is the first antagonist analogue to be reported with high affinity for sst5. It also had high potency on in vitro inhibition of sst5 mediated intracellular calcium mobilization. These results were considered surprising, since the Lys(9) residue has long been considered to constitute the active center of somatostatin, important both for receptor binding and activation, and suggests important conformational differences between D-Cys(9) somatostatin antagonists and normal agonist structures. More modifications were carried out on this analogue with the aim of improving antagonist potency and/or specificity. Tyr(7) substitution of 5 resulted in an analogue, which had the highest affinity in the series for hsst2 (K(I) 5.51 nM) and an extraordinarily low IC50 of 0.53 nM in the rat pituitary cell assay. However, this analogue lost considerable affinity for sst5 relative to analogue 5. Analogue 16 with DTrp(12) at C-terminus had the highest affinity for hsst2, however, the IC50 in the rat GH release assay was only 11.6 nM. Replacement of Lys(9) in 9 with Dab(9) gave 11 which displayed high binding affinity for sst3, and it was also quite selective for that receptor. Both the sst3 and sst5 antagonists should be of value in assigning the physiological roles to type 3 and 5 receptor, respectively.

Rational design of a peptide agonist that interacts selectively with the orphan receptor, bombesin receptor subtype 3

The orphan receptor, bombesin (Bn) receptor subtype 3 (BRS-3), shares high homology with bombesin receptors (neuromedin B receptor (NMB-R) and gastrin-releasing peptide receptor (GRP-R)). This receptor is widely distributed in the central nervous system and gastrointestinal tract; target disruption leads to obesity, diabetes, and hypertension, however, its role in physiological and pathological processes remain unknown due to lack of selective ligands or identification of its natural ligand. We have recently discovered (Mantey, S. A., Weber, H. C., Sainz, E., Akeson, M., Ryan, R. R. Pradhan, T. K., Searles, R. P., Spindel, E. R., Battey, J. F., Coy, D. H., and Jensen, R. T. (1997) J. Biol. Chem. 272, 26062-26071) that [d-Tyr(6),beta-Ala(11),Phe(13),Nle(14)]Bn-(6-14) has high affinity for BRS-3 and using this ligand showed BRS-3 has a unique pharmacology with high affinity for no known natural Bn peptides. However, use of this ligand is limited because it has high affinity for all known Bn receptors. In the present study we have attempted to identify BRS-3 selective ligands using a strategy of rational peptide design with the substitution of conformationally restricted amino acids into the prototype ligand [d-Tyr(6),beta-Ala(11),Phe(13),Nle(14)]Bn-(6-14) or its d-Phe(6) analogue. Each of the 22 peptides synthesized had binding affinities determined for hBRS-3, hGRPR, and hNMBR, and hBRS-3 selective ligands were tested for their ability to activate phospholipase C and increase inositol phosphates ([(3)H]inositol phosphate). Using this approach we have identified a number of BRS-3 selective ligands. These ligands functioned as receptor agonists and their binding affinities were reflected in their potencies for altering [(3)H]inositol phosphate. Two peptides with an (R)- or (S)-amino-3-phenylpropionic acid substitution for beta-Ala(11) in the prototype ligand had the highest selectivity for the hBRS-3 over the mammalian Bn receptors and did not interact with receptors for other gastrointestinal hormones/neurotransmitters. Molecular modeling demonstrated these two selective BRS-3 ligands had a unique conformation of the position 11 beta-amino acid. This selectivity was of sufficient magnitude that these should be useful in explaining the role of hBRS-3 activation in obesity, glucose homeostasis, hypertension, and other physiological or pathological processes.

Tyrosine 220 in the 5th transmembrane domain of the neuromedin B receptor is critical for the high selectivity of the peptoid antagonist PD168368

Peptoid antagonists are increasingly being described for G protein-coupled receptors; however, little is known about the molecular basis of their binding. Recently, the peptoid PD168368 was found to be a potent selective neuromedin B receptor (NMBR) antagonist. To investigate the molecular basis for its selectivity for the NMBR over the closely related receptor for gastrin-releasing peptide (GRPR), we used a chimeric receptor approach and a site-directed mutagenesis approach. Mutated receptors were transiently expressed in Balb 3T3. The extracellular domains of the NMBR were not important for the selectivity of PD168368. However, substitution of the 5th upper transmembrane domain (uTM5) of the NMBR by the comparable GRPR domains decreased the affinity 16-fold. When the reverse study was performed by substituting the uTM5 of NMBR into the GRPR, a 9-fold increase in affinity occurred. Each of the 4 amino acids that differed between NMBR and GRPR in the uTM5 region were exchanged, but only the substitution of Phe(220) for Tyr in the NMBR caused a decrease in affinity. When the reverse study was performed to attempt to demonstrate a gain of affinity in the GRPR, the substitution of Tyr(219) for Phe caused an increase in affinity. These results suggest that the hydroxyl group of Tyr(220) in uTM5 of NMBR plays a critical role for high selectivity of PD168368 for NMBR over GRPR. Receptor and ligand modeling suggests that the hydroxyl of the Tyr(220) interacts with nitrophenyl group of PD168368 likely primarily by hydrogen bonding. This result shows the selectivity of the peptoid PD168368, similar to that reported for numerous non-peptide analogues with other G protein-coupled receptors, is primarily dependent on interaction with transmembrane amino acids.

Adrenomedullin attenuates pressor response to angiotensin II in conscious sheep

Biologic actions attributed to adrenomedullin include reduction of arterial pressure and suppression of aldosterone secretion. To assess possible in vivo antiangiotensin II actions of adrenomedullin, we examined hemodynamic and adrenal responses to stepped angiotensin II infusions with or without co-infusions of adrenomedullin (33 ng/kg/min) in conscious sheep under controlled conditions of a low sodium intake. Plasma adrenomedullin levels rose during peptide infusions (p < 0.001) to plateau at approximately 15-18 pM. The dose-dependent pressor response (15-20 mm Hg) of angiotensin II was both delayed and markedly attenuated (p = 0.017) by adrenomedullin, which also stimulated heart rate (p < 0.001) and cardiac output (p < 0.001). Adrenomedullin prevented the angiotensin II-induced increase in peripheral resistance (p < 0.001). Plasma aldosterone responses to angiotensin II were variable and were not significantly altered by concomitant adrenomedullin infusion. In conclusion, low-dose infusion of adrenomedullin administered to conscious sheep on a low-salt diet clearly antagonized the vasopressor actions of administered angiotensin II while stimulating cardiac output and heart rate. The data suggest a possible role for adrenomedullin in cardiovascular homeostasis in part through antagonism of the vasopressor action of angiotensin II.

Systemic administration of a novel octapeptide, amylin-(1---8), increases bone volume in male mice

Amylin increases bone mass when administered systemically to mice. However, because of its size, the full peptide is not an ideal candidate for the therapy of osteoporosis. The fragment, amylin-(1---8), stimulates osteoblast proliferation in vitro, although it is without effect on carbohydrate metabolism. The present study assessed the effects of daily administration of this peptide on sexually mature male mice for 4 wk. Amylin-(1---8) almost doubled histomorphometric indices of osteoblast activity but did not change measures of bone resorption. Trabecular bone volume increased by 36% as a result of increases in both trabecular number and trabecular thickness, and tibial cortical width increased by 8%. On three-point bending tests of bone strength, displacement to fracture was increased by amylin-(1---8), from 0.302 +/- 0.013 to 0.351 +/- 0. 017 mm (P = 0.02). In a separate experiment using dynamic histomorphometry with bone-seeking fluorochrome labels, amylin-(1---8) was administered by local injection over the calvariae of female mice. Amylin-(1---8) (40 nM) increased the double-labeled surface threefold. The effect was dose dependent from 0.4 to 40 nM and was greater than that of an equimolar dose of human parathyroid hormone-(1---34) [hPTH-(1---34)]. Mineral apposition rate was increased by 40 nM amylin-(1---8) but not by hPTH-(1---34). Amylin-(1---8) thus has significant anabolic effects in vivo, suggesting that this peptide or analogs of it should be further evaluated as potential therapies for osteoporosis.

Nitric oxide-mediated erectile effects of galantide but not galanin in vivo

The purpose of this study was to investigate the in vivo effects of intracavernosal injections of galanin and galantide (a specific galanin receptor antagonist) on penile erection in the anesthetized cat. Erectile responses to galanin and galantide were compared with responses to a standard triple drug combination [1.65 mg papaverine, 25 microg phentolamine, and 0.5 microg prostaglandin E(1) (PGE(1))]. Intracavernosal injections of galanin (3-100 nmol) and galantide (0. 1-3 nmol) induced penile erection in a dose-dependent manner. In terms of relative potency, galantide was approximately 100-fold more potent than galanin at increasing cavernosal pressure. The maximal increases in intracavernosal pressure in response to galanin and galantide were 83 and 95%, respectively, of the control triple drug combination. The total durations of erectile response caused by these peptides were significantly shorter (P<0.05) than those by the triple drug combination. The nitric oxide synthase inhibitor L-NAME (20 mg) significantly decreased the erectile response in the cat to galantide but not to galanin, while the K(+)(ATP) channel antagonist U-37883A (3 mg) had no effect on the erectile response to galanin nor galantide. The results of the present study demonstrate that galantide, a putative antagonist for the galanin receptor, has more potent agonist activity than galanin in increasing intracavernosal pressure in the cat. Moreover, these data suggest that galantide, but not galanin, causes penile erection by an NO/cGMP-dependent mechanism. This is the first study to demonstrate that galanin may play a role in the physiology of penile erection.

Rat and guinea pig pancreatic acini possess both VIP(1) and VIP(2) receptors, which mediate enzyme secretion

Pancreatic acini from most species possess vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) receptors. Recently, two subtypes of VIP receptors, VIP(1)-R and VIP(2)-R, were cloned. Which subtype exists on pancreatic acini or mediates secretion is unclear. To address this, we examined pancreatic acini from both rat and guinea pig. VIP(1)-R and VIP(2)-R mRNA were identified in dispersed acini from both species by Northern blot analysis and in rat by Southern blot analysis. With the use of the VIP(2)-R-selective ligand Ro-25-1553 in both species, inhibition of binding of (125)I-labeled VIP to acini showed a biphasic pattern with a high-affinity component (10%) and a second representing 90%. The VIP(1)-R-selective ligand, [Lys(15),Arg(16),Leu(27)]VIP-(1-7)-GRF-(8-27), gave a monophasic pattern. Binding of Ro-25-1553 was better fit by a two-site model. In both rat and guinea pig acini, the dose-response curve of Ro-25-1553 for stimulation of enzyme secretion was biphasic, with a high-affinity component of 10-15% of the maximal secretion and a low-affinity component accounting for 85-90%. At low concentrations (10 nM) of Ro-25-1553 and [Lys(15),Arg(16), Leu(27)]VIP-(1-7)-GRF(8-27), which only occupy VIP receptors, a 4-fold and a 56-fold increase in cAMP occurred, respectively. These results show that both VIP(1)-R and VIP(2)-R subtypes exist on pancreatic acini of rat and guinea pig, their activation stimulates enzyme secretion by a cAMP-mediated mechanism, and the effects of VIP are mediated 90% by activation of VIP(1)-R and 10% by VIP(2)-R. Because VIP has a high affinity for both VIP-R subtypes, its effect on pancreatic acini is mediated by two receptor subtypes, which will need to be considered in future studies of the action of VIP in the pancreas.

Urethane-induced somatostatin mediated inhibition of gastric acid: reversal by the somatostatin 2 receptor antagonist, PRL-2903

Urethane increases the release of somatostatin (SRIF) which inhibits gastric acid secretion. The SRIF monoclonal antibody, CURE.S6 and the novel sst2 antagonist, PRL-2903 injected intravenously at maximal effective doses increased gastric acid secretion by 2 and 10 fold respectively from basal values within 30 min in urethane-anesthetized rats. Plasma gastrin levels were elevated 2.5 fold within 15 min by PRL-2903 (1.3 micromol/kg, i.v.). These data indicate that the low gastrin and acid secretion levels induced by urethane result from endogenous SRIF acting on sst2 and that PRL-2903 is a valuable SRIF antagonist to assess sst2 mediated events.

Comparative pharmacology of the nonpeptide neuromedin B receptor antagonist PD 168368

The mammalian peptide neuromedin B (NMB) and its receptor are expressed in a variety of tissues; however, little is definitively established about its physiological actions because of the lack of potent, specific antagonists. Recently, the peptoid PD 168368 was found to be a potent human NMB receptor antagonist. Because it had been shown previously that either synthetic analogs of bombesin (Bn) or other receptor peptoid or receptor antagonists function as an antagonist or agonist depends on animal species and receptor subtype studied, we investigated the pharmacological properties of PD 168368 compared with all currently known Bn receptor subtypes (NMB receptor, gastrin-releasing peptide receptor, Bn receptor subtype 3, and Bn receptor subtype 4) from human, mouse, rat, and frog. In binding studies, PD 168368 had similar high affinities (K(i) = 15-45 nM) for NMB receptors from each species examined, 30- to 60-fold lower affinity for gastrin-releasing peptide receptors, and >300-fold lower affinity for Bn receptor subtype 3 or 4. It inhibited NMB binding in a competitive manner. PD 168368 alone did not stimulate increases in either intracellular calcium concentration or [(3)H]inositol phosphates in any of the cells studied but inhibited NMB-induced responses with equivalent potencies in cells containing NMB receptors. PD 168368 was only minimally soluble in water. When hydroxypropyl-beta-cyclodextrin rather than dimethyl sulfoxide was used as the vehicle, both the affinity and the antagonist potency of PD 168368 were significantly greater. The results demonstrate that PD 168368 is a potent, competitive, and selective antagonist at NMB receptors, with a similar pharmacology across animal species. PD 168368 should prove useful for delineating the biological role of NMB and selectively blocking NMB signaling in bioassays and as a lead for the development of more selective nonpeptide antagonists for the NMB receptor.

Highly potent cyclic disulfide antagonists of somatostatin

The search for synthetic analogues of somatostatin (SRIF) which exhibit selective affinities for the five known receptor subtypes (sst1-5) has generated a large number of potent agonist analogues. Many of these agonists display good subtype selectivities and affinities for the subtypes 2, 3, and 5, with very few selective for sst1 or sst4. Until the recent report by Bass and co-workers (Mol. Pharmacol. 1996, 50, 709-715; erratum Mol. Pharmacol. 1997, 51, 170), no true antagonists of somatostatin had been discovered, let alone any displaying differential receptor subtype selectivity. In this present study, we further explore the effect of this putative L,5D6 antagonist motif on somatostatin octapeptide analogues with a cyclic hexapeptide core. The most potent antagonist found to date is H-Cpa-cyclo[DCys-Tyr-DTrp-Lys-Thr-Cys]-Nal-NH2, PRL-2970 (21), which has an IC50 of 1.1 nM in a rat pituitary growth hormone in vitro antagonist assay versus SRIF (1 nM). This analogue bound to cloned human somatostatin subtype 2 receptors with a Ki of 26 nM. The highest hsst2 affinity analogue was H-Cpa-cyclo[DCys-Pal-DTrp-Lys-Tle-Cys]-Nal-NH2, PRL-2915 (15), with a Ki of 12 nM (IC50 = 1.8 nM). This analogue was also selective for hsst2 over hsst3 and hsst5 by factors of 8 and 40, respectively, and had no agonist activity when tested alone at concentrations up to 10 microM. Regression analysis of the binding affinities versus the observed antagonist potencies revealed high correlations for hsst2 (r = 0.65) and hsst3 (r = 0.52) with a less significant correlation to hsst5 (r = 0.40). This is quite different from the somatostatin agonist analogues which show a highly significant correlation to hsst2 (r > 0.9). Receptor-selective somatostatin antagonists should provide valuable tools for characterizing the many important physiological functions of this neuropeptide.

Pharmacology and cell biology of the bombesin receptor subtype 4 (BB4-R)

Recently, a fourth member of the bombesin (Bn) receptor family (fBB4-R) was isolated from a cDNA library from the brain of the frog, Bombina orientalis. Its pharmacology and cell biology are largely unknown, and no known natural cell lines or tissues possess sufficient numbers of fBB4-R's to allow either of these to be determined. To address these issues, we have used three different strategies. fBB4-R expression in cells widely used for other Bn receptor subtypes was unsuccessful as was expression in two frog cell lines. However, stable fBB4-R cell lines were obtained in CHO-K1 cells which were shown to faithfully demonstrate the correct pharmacology of the related Bn receptor, the GRP receptor, when expressed in these cells. [DPhe6,betaAla11,Phe13,Nle14]Bn(6-14) was found to have high affinity (Ki = 0.4 nM) for the fBB4 receptor and 125I-[DTyr6,betaala11,Phe13,Nle14]Bn(6-14) to be an excellent ligand for this receptor. The fBB4-R had a unique pharmacology for naturally occurring Bn-related agonists, with the presence of a penultimate phenylalanine being critical for high-affinity interaction. It also had a unique profile for six classes of Bn antagonists. The fBB4-R was coupled to phospholipase C with activation increasing [3H]inositol phosphates and mobilizing Ca2+ almost entirely from cellular sources. There was a close correlation between agonist the receptor occupation and the receptor activation. Three of the five classes of Bn receptor antagonists that interacted with higher affinity with the fBB4-R functioned as fBB4-R antagonists and two as partial agonists. fBB4-R activation stimulated increases in phospholipase D (PLD) over the same range of concentrations at which it activated phospholipase C. These results demonstrate that the fBB4 receptor has a unique pharmacology for agonists and antagonists and is coupled to phospholipase C and D. The availability of these cell lines, this novel ligand, and the identification of three classes of antagonists that can be used as lead compounds should facilitate the further investigation of the pharmacology and cell biology of the BB4 receptor.

Inhibition of human pancreatic islet insulin release by receptor-selective somatostatin analogs directed to somatostatin receptor subtype 5

Somatostatin (SS)-14 and SS28 are produced by pancreatic D cells and gut mucosa and inhibit pancreatic islet insulin and glucagon release. There are five distinct SS receptor (SSTR) subtypes, namely SSTR1-5, which show different affinities for SS14 and SS28. In order to identify the subtype responsible for inhibition of insulin release by human B cells, SSTR-selective SS analogs were tested in isolated human islets. Glucose-stimulated insulin secretion in human islets incubated for 1 hr at 20 mM glucose, and in islets cultured for 24 hr at a near-physiological (6.1 mM) glucose concentration, was inhibited (<50% of the control) by SSTR5-specific analogs and by SS14 and SS28. SS14, SS28, and different SSTR5 preferential analogs also inhibited islet amyloid polypeptide release during the 24-hr culture. On the other hand, a group of SSTR2-selective analogs failed to inhibit insulin release. Analysis by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction indicated that human islets express similar amounts of SSTR2 and SSTR5 mRNAs, while human pancreatic ductal cells express much lower levels of these mRNAs. In conclusion, our data suggest that SSTR5 is an important mediator of the insulin inhibitory action of SS in cultured human islets.

Proadrenomedullin N-terminal 20 peptide (PAMP), acting through PAMP(12-20)-sensitive receptors, inhibits Ca2+-dependent, agonist-stimulated secretion of human adrenal glands

Proadrenomedullin N-terminal 20 peptide (PAMP) is a 20-amino acid hypotensive peptide expressed in the adrenal medulla. We investigated the localization and function of PAMP receptors in the human adrenal gland. Autoradiography showed the presence of [125I]PAMP-binding sites in both zona glomerulosa and adrenal medulla that were displaced by cold PAMP and PAMP(12-20) but not by other preproadrenomedullin-derived peptides. PAMP, but not PAMP(12-20), counteracted, in a concentration dependent manner, both aldosterone response of zona glomerulosa cells and catecholamine response of adrenal medulla cells to BAYK-8644, the selective agonist of voltage-activated Ca2+ channels, as well as to K+ and angiotensin II. PAMP(12-20) partially reversed this antisecretagogue effect of PAMP. Collectively, these findings suggest (1) that PAMP inhibits Ca2+-dependent, agonist-stimulated aldosterone and catecholamine secretion, acting via specific receptors and through a mechanism involving the impairment of Ca2+ influx; and (2) that PAMP(12-20) acts as a weak antagonist of PAMP receptors, thereby suggesting that both C- and N-terminal sequences of the PAMP molecule are required for this peptide to exert its antisecretagogue action on the human adrenal gland.

Bombesin stimulates adhesion, spreading, lamellipodia formation, and proliferation in the human colon carcinoma Isreco1 cell line

The neuropeptide bombesin and its mammalian homologue, gastrin-releasing peptide (GRP), enhance proliferation in some but not all human tumor cell lines. The pathophysiological relevance of the bombesin/GRP receptor (GRP-R), which is expressed in 30% of human colon tumor cell lines and in 24-40% of native tumors, has not been clearly assessed at this time. We studied the effects of bombesin in the recently characterized human colon carcinoma Isreco1 cell line. Competitive reverse transcription-PCR showed a high GRP-R mRNA level in Isreco1 cells, and binding studies confirmed the expression of bombesin/GRP-subtype receptors (Kd = 0.42 nM; Bmax = 18,000 sites/cell). Exposure to bombesin resulted in an increase of intracellular calcium concentrations. Bombesin (1 nM) induced cell spreading at 24 h (21.7+/-1.6% versus 6.4+/-0.8% in control cells; P<0.01) and markedly increased the formation of lamellipodia. In addition, adhesion of Isreco1 cells to collagen I-coated culture dishes was stimulated in the presence of 1 nM bombesin (69+/-6% versus 42+/-1% in control cells; P<0.01). Finally, bombesin significantly increased [3H]thymidine uptake by Isreco1 cells in a dose-dependent manner, with a first significant response at 0.1 nM and a maximal effect at 100 nM bombesin (192.2+/-9.7% of control). These results clearly indicate that bombesin exerts morphological, adhesive, and proliferative effects on Isreco1 cells, suggesting that expression of the bombesin/GRP-R may contribute to the malignant properties of colon carcinoma cells.

Synthesis and characterization of multiply-tyrosinated, multiply-iodinated somatostatin analogs

Radio-labeled somatostatin analogs have recently gained popularity as agents useful in intraoperative tumor localization, external scintigraphy and in situ radiotherapy. We have synthesized and characterized a series of novel N-terminally extended multiply-tyrosinated somatostatin analogs that possess high binding affinity for somatostatin receptors, exhibit biological activity comparable to the native peptide and retain these characteristics after iodination. These analogs can be radio-iodinated to high specific activities. Following radioiodination, these analogs exhibit minimal radiolysis and may be clinically useful for tumor localization, scanning and therapy.

Adrenomedullin and calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) interact with a common receptor of the CGRP1 subtype in the human adrenal zona glomerulosa

Frozen sections of normal adrenal glands, obtained from patients undergoing unilateral nephrectomy for kidney cancer, were labeled in vitro with human [125I]ADM(1-52). Autoradiography showed the presence of abundant ADM binding sites in the zona glomerulosa (ZG) and the outermost portion of the zona fasciculata, which were completely displaced by the addition of an excess of cold ADM(1-52). Calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) and the non-selective ligand of the CGRP-receptor subtypes 1 and 2 CGRP(8-37) eliminated [125I]ADM(1-52) binding in the ZG, while the selective ligand of CGRP receptor subtype 2 [Cys(acm)2,7]-CGRP and CGRP(1-8) were ineffective. These findings confirm the presence of ADM binding sites in the human ZG, and provide the first morphological evidence that ADM and CGRP interact with a common receptor of the CGRP1 subtype.

Inhibitory effect of adrenomedullin (ADM) on the aldosterone response of human adrenocortical cells to angiotensin-II: role of ADM(22-52)-sensitive receptors

Human adrenomedullin (ADM) is a 52-amino acid hypotensive peptide, which possesses a disulfide bridge-formed six-membered ring in 16-21 position. The ring structure, and both the N- and C-terminal amino-acid sequences seem to play a key role in the vascular effects of ADM(1-52), and we have investigated whether the same is true for the inhibitory effect of this peptide on the aldosterone response of zona glomerulosa (ZG) cells to angiotensin-II (ANG-II). Autoradiography showed the presence of abundant [125I]ADM(1-52) binding sites in the ZG of human adrenals, which were displaced not only by cold ADM(1-52), but also by both ADM(13-52) and ADM(22-52); ADM fragments 1-12, 15-22 and 16-31 were ineffective. ADM(1-52) and ADM(13-52), but not other fragments, concentration-dependently inhibited ANG-II-stimulated aldosterone secretion of dispersed human adrenocortical cells. The aldosterone antisecretagogue actions of ADM(1-52) and ADM(13-52) were counteracted by ADM(22-52) in a concentration-dependent manner, while other ADM fragments were ineffective. In light of these findings the following conclusions could be drawn: (i) human ZG cells are provided with ADM(22-52)-sensitive receptors; (ii) the six-membered ring structure and the C-terminal, but not N-terminal, amino-acid sequence are both essential for ADM(1-52) to exert its antimineralocorticoid action; and probably (iii) the C-terminal sequence is needed for ADM(1-52) to bind its ZG receptors, while the ring structure is required for the receptor activation.

An in vivo model for elucidation of the mechanism of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha)-induced insulin resistance: evidence for differential regulation of insulin signaling by TNF-alpha

Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) has been shown to induce insulin resistance in cultured cells as well as in animal models. The aim of this study was to map the in vivo mechanism whereby TNF-alpha contributes to the pathogenesis of impaired insulin signaling, using obese and lean Zucker rats in which TNF-alpha activity was inhibited through adenovirus-mediated gene transfer. We employed a replication-incompetent adenovirus-5 (Ad5) vector to endogenously express a TNF inhibitor (TNFi) gene, which encodes a chimeric protein consisting of the extracellular domain of the human 55-kDa TNF receptor joined to a mouse IgG heavy chain. Control animals consisted of rats infected with the same titer of adenovirus carrying the lac-z complementary DNA, encoding for beta-galactosidase. There was a significant reduction in plasma insulin and free fatty acid levels in TNFi obese rats 2 days following Ad5 administration. The peripheral insulin sensitivity index was 50% greater, whereas hepatic glucose output was completely suppressed during hyperinsulinemic glucose clamps in TNFi obese animals, with no differences observed between the two lean groups. The improvement in peripheral and hepatic sensitivity to insulin seen in the obese animals was independent of insulin receptor (IR) number and insulin binding affinity for IR. However, TNF-alpha neutralization led to a 2.5-fold increase in tyrosine phosphorylation of IR in skeletal muscle, whereas this was unchanged in liver. There was also a 4-fold increase in particulate protein tyrosine phosphatase activity of skeletal muscle in TNFi obese animals vs. beta-galactosidase controls, whereas protein tyrosine phosphatase activity in liver was unchanged. These results suggest that TNF-alpha is a mediator of insulin resistance in obesity and may modulate IR signaling in skeletal muscle and liver through different pathways. TNF-alpha may affect insulin action in the liver either at sites distal to the IR or indirectly, possibly because of increased provision of gluconeogenic substrates or altered counterregulation. In addition, the Ad5-mediated gene delivery system employed here provides an in vivo model that is efficient and economical for exploring mechanisms involved in TNF-alpha-induced insulin resistance in various genetic models of obesity-linked diabetes.

Examination of somatostatin involvement in the inhibitory action of GIP, GLP-1, amylin and adrenomedullin on gastric acid release using a new SRIF antagonist analogue

1. The effect of a new type 2 selective somatostatin (SRIF) receptor antagonist (DC-41-33) on somatostatin-induced inhibition of pentagastrin-stimulated gastric acid secretion in conscious, chronic gastric fistula equipped rats was studied. 2. Infused intravenously, DC-41-33 dose-dependently inhibits SRIF-induced inhibition of pentagastrin-stimulated gastric acid secretion with an IC50 of 31.6+/-1.2 nmol kg(-1) versus 10 nmol kg(-1) SRIF and blocks the inhibitory effects of SRIF when simultaneously co-infused. Its effectiveness provides additional evidence that SRIF-inhibition of gastric acid release is a SRIF type 2 receptor-mediated process. 3. DC-41-33 is able to completely reverse the inhibitory effect of glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptides, GIP and GIP-(1-30)NH2, and glucagon-like polypeptide, GLP-1(7-36)NH2, on pentagastrin-stimulated gastric acid secretion thus confirming that they exert these effects through stimulation of endogenous SRIF release. 4. DC-41-33 only partially blocks potent amylin and adrenomedullin-induced inhibition of gastric acid secretion, therefore suggesting that somatostatin may not function as a primary mediator in the action of these peptides. 5. Our results indicate that DC-41-33, is a potent in vivo inhibitor of exogenous and endogenous SRIF in rats. It represents a new class of SRIF analogues which should eventually provide excellent tools for further evaluating the many physiological roles of SRIF and its five receptor subtypes.

Pharmacology and intracellular signaling mechanisms of the native human orphan receptor BRS-3 in lung cancer cells

Neither the native ligand nor the cell biology of the bombesin (Bn)-related orphan receptor subtype 3 (BRS-3) is known. In this study, we used RT-PCR to identify two human lung cancer lines that contain sufficient numbers of native hBRS-3 to allow study: NCI-N417 and NCI-H720. In both cell lines, [DPhe6,betaAla11,Phe13, Nle14]Bn(6-14) stimulates [3H]inositol phosphate. In NCI-N417 cells, binding of 125I-[DTyr6,betaAla11,Phe13,Nle14]Bn(6-14) was saturable and high-affinity. [DPhe6,betaAla11,Phe13,Nle14]Bn(6-14) stimulated phospholipase D activity and a concentration-dependent release of [3H]inositol phosphate (EC50 = 25 nM) and intracellular calcium (EC50 = 14 nM); the increases in intracellular calcium were primarily from intracellular stores. hBRS-3 activation was not coupled to changes in adenylate cyclase activity, [3H]-thymidine incorporation or cell proliferation. No naturally occurring Bn-related peptides bound or activated the hBRS-3 with high affinity. Four different bombesin receptor antagonists inhibited increases in [3H]inositol phosphate. Using cytosensor microphysiometry, we found that [DPhe6,betaAla11,Phe13, Nle14]Bn(6-14) caused concentration-dependent acidification. The results show that native hBRS-3 receptors couple to phospholipases C and D but not to adenylate cyclase and that they stimulate mobilization of intracellular calcium and increase metabolism but not growth. The discovery of human cell lines with native, functional BRS-3 receptors, of new leads for a more hBRS-3-specific antagonist and of the validity of microphysiometry as an assay has yielded important tools that can be used for the identification of a native ligand for hBRS-3 and for the characterization of BRS-3-mediated biological responses.

Modulation of secretin release by neuropeptides in secretin-producing cells

Nerve fibers containing bombesin (BB)/gastrin-releasing polypeptide (GRP), pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP), vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP), or galanin are known to innervate the mucosa of the upper small intestine. Both BB/GRP and PACAP have been shown to elicit secretin secretion in vivo. We studied whether the above-mentioned neuropeptides can act directly on secretin-producing cells, including the murine neuroendocrine cell line STC-1 and a secretin cell-enriched preparation isolated from rat upper small intestinal mucosa. Secretin release from both cell types was stimulated by various agents known to elicit secretin release and by the neuropeptides BB, GRP, and PACAP, suggesting a comparable response between the two cell preparations. The effects of neuropeptides were further studied in STC-1 cells. BB, GRP, and PACAP stimulated secretin release time and concentration dependently. VIP also stimulated secretin release concentration dependently. Stimulation by BB/GRP or PACAP was accompanied by elevation of inositol-1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3) or cAMP, respectively. The stimulatory effect of PACAP on secretin release was synergistically enhanced by BB without any synergistic increase in IP3 or cAMP production, suggesting cross talk between different signal transduction pathways downstream of the production of these two second messengers. The L-type Ca2+ channel blocker diltiazem (10 microM) and the Ca2+ chelator EGTA (1 mM) significantly inhibited BB-stimulated secretin release by 64% and 59%, respectively, and inhibited PACAP-stimulated release by 75% and 55%, respectively. The protein kinase A-specific inhibitor Rp-cAMPS (100 microM) also inhibited both BB- and PACAP-stimulated secretin release by 30% and 62%, respectively. Galanin inhibited BB- and PACAP-stimulated secretin release and production of second messengers in a concentration-dependent and pertussis toxin-sensitive manner. These results suggested that the neuropeptides BB/GRP, PACAP, VIP, and galanin can modulate secretin release in secretin-producing cells and that STC-1 cells can serve as a useful model for studying the cellular mechanism of secretin secretion elicited by luminal secretagogues and neuropeptides.

Insulin secretion is inhibited by subtype five somatostatin receptor in the mouse

BACKGROUND

Recently five somatostatin receptor subtypes (SSTRs) were cloned, allowing the development of highly specific agonists to these SSTRs. Previous studies have shown a species specificity phenomenon with respect to the inhibition of insulin secretion by these selective agonists. This study was undertaken to determine which SSTR (2 or 5) is responsible for the inhibitory effect of somatostatin on glucose-stimulated mouse insulin secretion.

METHODS

Intact mouse islets (n = 10) were stimulated with D-glucose in the presence or absence of receptor-specific somatostatin agonists.

RESULTS

D-glucose (16.7 mmol/L) augmented insulin secretion by 158% above that seen with 3.9 mmol/L D-glucose. In the presence of DC 32-92 (SSTR5) selective agonist, D-glucose (16.7 mmol/L) augmented insulin secretion by 64% above that seen with 3.9 mmol/L D-glucose. The presence of SSTR 5 selective agonist resulted in a significant (P < .05) inhibition of glucose-stimulated insulin secretion. The identification of SSTR5 within the mouse pancreas was established by reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction and confirmed by Southern blot analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that the inhibitory effect of somatostatin on insulin secretion is mediated through the subtype 5 receptor within the mouse islet.

Adrenomedullin Does Not Inhibit Human Platelet Aggregation

BACKGROUND: Adrenomedullin (ADM) is a hypotensive peptide isolated from human pheochromocytoma extracts discovered in 1993 using an assay system designed to monitor its ability to increase rat platelet adenosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate (cAMP) levels. Physiological mediators that elevate cAMP levels, such as prostaglandin (PG)E(1) and PGI(2), have also been shown to inhibit platelet aggregation. Therefore, we have chosen to investigate the effect of ADM, a peptide shown to increase platelet cAMP levels, on human platelet aggregation. METHODS AND RESULTS: Platelet-rich plasma prepared from blood donors was incubated with ADM (10(-9)-10(-6) M) for 1 min at 37 degrees C before the addition of a submaximal dose of adenosine 5'-diphosphate (ADP). ADM did not alter the platelet aggregatory response to ADP. PGE(1), a substance known to inhibit ADP-induced platelet aggregation (10(-6) M), however, inhibited ADP-induced platelet aggregation. In addition, the ADM induced a dose-dependent relation in rings of human chorionic arteries. CONCLUSIONS: These data may be interpreted to suggest that human platelets do not possess a functional ADM receptor couple with adenylate cyclase.

Ability of various bombesin receptor agonists and antagonists to alter intracellular signaling of the human orphan receptor BRS-3

Bombesin (Bn) receptor subtype 3 (BRS-3) is an orphan receptor that is a predicted member of the heptahelical G-protein receptor family and so named because it shares a 50% amino acid homology with receptors for the mammalian bombesin-like peptides neuromedin B (NMB) and gastrin-releasing peptide. In a recent targeted disruption study, in which BRS-3-deficient mice were generated, the mice developed obesity, diabetes, and hypertension. To date, BRS-3's natural ligand remains unknown, its pharmacology unclear, and cellular basis of action undetermined. Furthermore, there are few tissues or cell lines found that express sufficient levels of BRS-3 protein for study. To define the intracellular signaling properties of BRS-3, we examined the ability of [D-Phe6,beta-Ala11,Phe13, Nle14]Bn-(6-14), a newly discovered peptide with high affinity for BRS-3, and various Bn receptor agonists and antagonists to alter cellular function in hBRS-3-transfected BALB 3T3 cells and hBRS-3-transfected NCI-H1299 non-small cell lung cancer cells, which natively express very low levels of hBRS-3. This ligand stimulated a 4-9-fold increase in [3H]inositol phosphate formation in both cell lines under conditions where it caused no stimulation in untransfected cells and also stimulated an increase in [3H]IP1, [3H]IP2, and 3H]IP3. The elevation of [3H]IP was concentration-dependent, with an EC50 of 20-35 nM in both cell lines. [D-Phe6,beta-Ala11,Phe13,Nle14]Bn-(6-14) stimulated a 2-3-fold increase in [Ca2+]i, a 3-fold increase in tyrosine phosphorylation of p125(FAK) with an EC50 of 0.2-0.7 nM, but failed to either stimulate increases in cyclic AMP or inhibit forskolin-stimulated increases. None of nine naturally occurring Bn peptides or three synthetic Bn analogues reported to activate hBRS-3 did so with high affinity. No high affinity Bn receptor antagonists had high affinity for the hBRS-3 receptor, although two low affinity antagonists for gastrin-releasing peptide and NMB receptors, [D-Arg1,D-Trp7,9, Leu11]substance P and [D-Pro4,D-Trp7,9,10]substance P-(4-11), inhibited hBRS-3 receptor activation. The NMB receptor-specific antagonist D-Nal,Cys,Tyr,D-Trp,Lys,Val, Cys,Nal-NH2 inhibited hBRS-3 receptor activation in a competitive fashion (Ki = 0.5 microM). Stimulation of p125(FAK) tyrosine phosphorylation by hBRS-3 activation was not inhibited by the protein kinase C inhibitor, GF109203X, or thapsigargin, alone or in combination. These results show that hBRS-3 receptor activation increases phospholipase C activity, which causes generation of inositol phosphates and changes in [Ca2+]i and is also coupled to tyrosine kinase activation, but is not coupled to adenylate cyclase activation or inhibition. hBRS-3 receptor activation results in tyrosine phosphorylation of p125(FAK), and it is not dependent on activation of either limb of the phospholipase C cascade. Although the natural ligand is not a known bombesin-related peptide, the availability of [D-Phe6,beta-Ala11, Phe13,Nle14]Bn-(6-14), which functions as a high affinity agonist in conjunction with hBRS-3-transfected cell lines and the recognition of three classes of receptor antagonists including one with affinity of 0.5 microM, should provide important tools to assist in the identification of its natural ligand, the development of more potent selective receptor antagonists and agonists, and further exploration of the signaling properties of the hBRS-3 receptor.

Dissociation of the effects of amylin on osteoblast proliferation and bone resorption

This study assesses the structure-activity relationships of the actions of amylin on bone. In fetal rat osteoblasts, only intact amylin and amylin-(1-8) stimulated cell proliferation (half-maximal concentrations 2.0 x 10(-11) and 2.4 x 10(-10) M, respectively). Amylin-(8-37), COOH terminally deamidated amylin, reduced amylin, and reduced amylin-(1-8) (reduction results in cleavage of the disulfide bond) were without agonist effect but acted as antagonists to the effects of both amylin and amylin-(1-8). Calcitonin gene-related peptide-(8-37) also antagonized the effects of amylin and amylin-(1-8) on osteoblasts but was substantially less potent in this regard than amylin-(8-37). In contrast, inhibition of bone resorption in neonatal mouse calvariae only occurred with the intact amylin molecule and was not antagonized by any of these peptides. The rate of catabolism of the peptides in calvarial cultures was not accelerated in comparison with that of intact amylin. This dissociation of the actions of amylin suggests that it acts through two separate receptors, one on the osteoclast (possibly the calcitonin receptor) and a second on the osteoblast.

Multiply radioiodinated somatostatin analogs induce receptor-specific cytotoxicity

BACKGROUND

Radiolabeled somatostatin analogs have gained popularity for tumor imaging and have recently been used for the treatment of somatostatin receptor-expressing tumors. We have developed a novel, N-terminally extended, multiply iodinated somatostatin analog, 125I-WOC 4a, that we hypothesize will be a useful tool for the detection of and therapy for somatostatin receptor-positive tumors. To evaluate the therapeutic potential of this agent, we compared the cytotoxicity of 125I-WOC 4a in a somatostatin receptor subtype-2 (sst 2)-expressing human neurobalstoma cell line to its cytotoxicity in a somatostatin receptor-negative human pancreatic carcinoma cell line.

METHODS

IMR-32 neuroblastoma cells (sst 2-positive) and PANC-1 human pancreatic cells (sst 2-negative) were incubated with 125I-WOC 4a at doses ranging from 0.1-100 CPM/cell for 48 h and cell viability was assessed by a colorimetric (MTT) cell viability assay. Subsequently, IMR-32 cells were incubated with either control medium, 125I-WOC 4a (1 cpm/cell) alone, 125I-WOC 4a with 10(-6) M octreotide acetate, 125I (1 cpm/cell) alone, 125I with octreotide acetate, or octreotide acetate alone for 48 h, washed, and cryopreserved for 4 weeks. Cells were then thawed, replated, and allowed to acclimate for 48 h. Cell viability was assessed by trypan blue exclusion and a colorimetric assay.

RESULTS

Following short-term exposure, 125I-WOC 4a induced dose-dependent cytotoxicity in IMR-32 cells (P < 0.05 by ANOVA), but not in the PANC-1 cells. After exposure to 125I-WOC 4a (1 cpm/cell) for 48 h followed by a 4-week cryopreserved exposure, significant cytotoxicity was induced in IMR-32 cells (P < 0.05 by ANOVA) which was not seen in cells treated with 125I alone or 125I with 10(-6) M octreotide acetate. Simultaneous exposure to 125I-WOC 4a and octreotide acetate was also cytotoxic.

CONCLUSION

125I-WOC 4a induces receptor-specific cytotoxicity following both short- and long-term drug exposures. This radiopharmaceutical may be useful for localizing or treating somatostatin receptor-positive tumors.

Hemodynamic, hormonal, and renal effects of intracerebroventricular adrenomedullin in conscious sheep

Adrenomedullin, the recently described vasodilator that exhibits potent hypotensive actions when administered systemically, is also found in the central nervous system, suggesting a role for adrenomedullin as a neurohormone. However, only a limited number of studies have examined the central effects of adrenomedullin. Therefore, we have examined the integrative hemodynamic, renal, and hormonal effects of intracerebroventricular (I.C.V.) adrenomedullin in conscious sheep. Eight surgically prepared sheep received I.C.V. infusions of adrenomedullin at two doses (2 ng/kg x min followed immediately by 20 ng/kg x min each for 90 min) in a vehicle-controlled study. Water deprivation for 48 h before control infusion resulted in sheep drinking 2617 +/- 583 ml in the 90-min period following reintroduction of water. On the adrenomedullin day, drinking was halved to 1392 +/- 361 ml (P < 0.05). Adrenomedullin had no significant effect on urinary volume and sodium excretion. Plasma adrenomedullin levels remained unchanged during control infusions but were elevated by the end of I.C.V. adrenomedullin infusions (P < 0.001). Plasma ANP levels were also increased approximately 50% (P < 0.05). Plasma levels of both ACTH and cortisol were also increased 3- to 4-fold in response to I.C.V. adrenomedullin (P < 0.05). There was no significant difference in arterial pressure, heart rate, or cardiac output between study days. In conclusion, adrenomedullin within the central nervous system may have at least two roles: modulation of the hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal axis and protection against fluid overload.

Potent antagonists of somatostatin: synthesis and biology

The search for synthetic analogues of somatostatin (SRIF) which exhibit selective affinities for the five known receptor subtypes (sst1-5) has generated a large number of potent agonist analogues. Many of these agonists display good subtype selectivities and affinities for the subtypes 2, 3, and 5, with very few selective for sst1 or sst4. Until the recent report by Bass and co-workers (Mol. Pharmacol. 1996, 50, 709-715; erratum, Mol. Pharmacol. 1997, 51, 170), no true antagonists had been discovered, let alone any displaying differential receptor subtype selectivity. In this present study, we explore the effect of this putative L5,D6 antagonist motif on various series of somatostatin agonist analogues, both linear and cyclic. It was found that many D5,L6 agonists could be converted into competitive antagonists by applying this motif, the most potent of which was H-Nal-cyclo[DCys-Pal-DTrp-Lys-Val-Cys]-Nal-NH2 (32). This antagonist was selective for hsst2 with an affinity of 75 nM and an IC50 of 15.1 nM against SRIF-14 in a rat in vitro antagonist bioassay. Receptor-selective somatostatin antagonists should provide valuable tools for characterizing the many important physiological functions of this neuropeptide.

PACAP(6-38) inhibits the growth of prostate cancer cells

The effects of pituitary adenylyl cyclase activating polypeptide (PACAP) analogs on prostate cancer cell lines was investigated. 125I-PACAP-27 bound with high affinity to PC-3 cells (Kd = 10 nM) to a single class of sites (Bmax = 30000/cell). By RT-PCR, a major 305 bp band was observed using cDNA derived from PC-3, LNCaP or DU-145 cells. Specific 125I-PACAP binding was inhibited with high affinity by PACAP-27, PACAP-38 and PACAP(6-38) (IC50 values of 15, 10 and 300 nM, respectively) but not by PACAP(28-38). PACAP elevated cAMP and the increase caused by PACAP-27 was reversed by PACAP(6-38). PACAP transiently increased c-fos gene expression and the increase in c-fos mRNA was reversed by PACAP(6-38). PACAP-27 stimulated colony formation in PC-3 cells, whereas PACAP(6-38) reduced colony number and size. In nude mice bearing PC-3 xenografts, PACAP(6-38) significantly slowed tumor growth. These data suggest that biologically active type 1 PACAP receptors are present on human prostate cancer cells and that prostate cancer cell growth is inhibited by PACAP(6-38).

Identification of a unique ligand which has high affinity for all four bombesin receptor subtypes

Four subtypes of bombesin receptors are identified (gastrin-releasing peptide receptor, neuromedin B receptor, the orphan receptor bombesin receptor subtype 3 (BB3 or BRS-3) and bombesin receptor subtype 4 (BB4)), however, only the pharmacology of the gastrin-releasing peptide receptor has been well studied. This lack of data is due in part to the absence of a general ligand. Recently we have discovered a ligand, 125I-[D-Tyr6,betaAla11,Phe13,Nle14]bombesin-(6-1 4) that binds to BRS-3 receptors. In this study we investigate its ability to interact with all four bombesin receptor subtypes. In rat pancreatic acini containing only gastrin-releasing peptide receptor and in BB4 transfected BALB cells, this ligand and 125I-[Tyr4]bombesin, the conventional gastrin-releasing peptide receptor ligand, gave similar results for receptor number, affinity for bombesin and affinity for the unlabeled ligand. In neuromedin B receptor transfected BALB cells, this ligand and 125I-[D-Tyr0]neuromedin B, the generally used neuromedin B receptor ligand, gave similar results for receptor number, neuromedin B affinity or the unlabeled ligand affinity. Lastly, in BRS-3 transfected BALB cells, only this ligand had high affinity. For all four bombesin receptors this ligand had an affinity of 1-8 nM and was equal or greater in affinity than any other specific ligands for any receptor. The unlabeled ligand is specific for gastrin-releasing peptide receptors on rat pancreatic acini and did not inhibit binding of 125I-cholecystokinin octapeptide (125I-CCK-8), 125I-vasoactive intestinal peptide (125I-VIP) or 125I-endothelin to their receptors. The unlabeled ligand was an agonist only at the gastrin-releasing peptide receptor in rat acini and did not interact with CCK(A) receptors or muscarinic M3 acetylcholine receptors to increase [3H]inositol phosphates. These results demonstrate 125I-[D-Tyr6,betaAla11,Phe13,Nle14]bombesin-(6-1 4) is a unique ligand with high affinity for all subtypes of bombesin receptors. Because of the specificity for bombesin receptors, this ligand will be a valuable addition for such pharmacological studies as screening for bombesin receptor agonists or antagonists and, in particular, for investigating BRS-3 cell biology, a receptor for which no ligand currently exists.

Role of different bombesin receptor subtypes mediating contractile activity in cat upper gastrointestinal tract

Mammalian bombesin-like peptides, gastrin-releasing peptide (GRP) and neuromedin B (NMB) are known to increase the motility of different segments in the gut. The present study was carried out to identify the bombesin receptor subtypes mediating the contractions induced by exogenous bombesin-like peptides in muscle strips isolated from cat esophagus, fundus, and duodenum. Both GRP-10 and NMB evoked concentration-dependent contractions in circular strips of esophagus and fundus and in longitudinal strips of the duodenum. These contractions were tetrodotoxin- and atropine-resistant. The potency of NMB in esophageal strips was 33 times higher than that of GRP-10. The NMB-preferring receptor antagonists D-Nal-Cys-Tyr-D-Trp-Lys-Val-Cys-Nal-NH2 (SSocta) and D-Nal-cyclo[Cys-Tyr-D-Trp-Orn-Val-Cys]-Nal-NH2 (BIM-23127) shifted the NMB and GRP concentration-response curves to the right, while the GRP-preferring receptor antagonist [D-Phe6]Bombesin(6-13)-methyl-ester (BME) did not affect the response to the peptides. Isolated muscle strips from the cat fundus and duodenum showed a higher sensitivity to GRP-10 than to NMB. In both segments, BME shifted the GRP-10 and NMB concentration-response curves to the right, while SSocta had no effect. The antagonism of BME was competitive on duodenal but not competitive on fundic muscle. We conclude that the direct myogenic action of GRP-10 and NMB in the esophagus is mediated mainly via NMB-preferring receptors, while GRP-preferring receptors are responsible for the contractile responses to bombesin-like peptides in feline fundus and duodenum. Our data suggest that the GRP receptor population located on fundic muscle might be nonhomogeneous.

Autoradiographic evidence that zona glomerulosa and capsular vessels of the human adrenal cortex are provided with different subtypes of adrenomedullin receptors

Frozen sections of normal adrenal glands, obtained from patients undergoing unilateral nephrectomy for kidney cancer, were labeled in vitro with human [125I]ADM(1-52). Autoradiography and quantitative densitometry showed the presence of abundant ADM(1-52) binding sites in both zona glomerulosa (ZG) and capsular vessels, which were displaced with about the same efficiency by cold ADM(1-52) and rat ADM(1-50). The selective calcitonin gene-related peptide type 1 (CGRPI) ligand CGRP(8-37) eliminated, although less efficiently than ADMs, [125I]ADM(1-52) binding in the ZG, but not in the capsular vessels. These findings suggest the existence of different receptor subtypes for ADM in the human adrenal cortex. The CGRP(8-37)-sensitive receptors located in the ZG may mediate the well-known inhibitory effect of ADM on aldosterone secretion, while the CGRP(8-37)-insensitive receptors present in the capsular vessel may be involved in the ADM-induced rise in adrenal blood flow.

Adrenomedullin is a potent stimulator of osteoblastic activity in vitro and in vivo

Adrenomedullin is a 52-amino acid vasodilator peptide produced in many tissues, including bone. It has 20% sequence identity with amylin, a regulator of osteoblast growth, and circulates in picomolar concentrations. The present study assesses whether adrenomedullin also acts on osteoblasts. At concentrations of 10(-12) M and greater, adrenomedullin produced a dose-dependent increase in cell number and [3H]thymidine incorporation in cultures of fetal rat osteoblasts. This effect was also seen with adrenomedullin-(15-52), -(22-52), and -(27-52), but adrenomedullin-(40-52) was inactive. These effects were lost in the presence of amylin blockers, suggesting they were mediated by the amylin receptor. Adrenomedullin also increased [3H]thymidine incorporation into cultured neonatal mouse calvaria but, unlike amylin, did not reduce bone resorption in this model. Adrenomedullin stimulated phenylalanine incorporation into both isolated osteoblasts and calvaria. When injected daily for 5 days over the calvariae of adult mice, it increased indexes of bone formation two- to threefold (P < 0.0001) and increased mineralized bone area by 14% (P = 0.004). It is concluded that adrenomedullin regulates osteoblast function and that it increases bone mass in vivo. The potential of this family of peptides in the therapy of osteoporosis should be further evaluated.

Discovery of a high affinity radioligand for the human orphan receptor, bombesin receptor subtype 3, which demonstrates that it has a unique pharmacology compared with other mammalian bombesin receptors

An orphan receptor discovered in 1993 was called bombesin receptor subtype 3 (BRS-3) because of 47-51% amino acid identity with bombesin (Bn) receptors. Its pharmacology is unknown, because no naturally occurring tissues have sufficient receptors to allow studies. We made two cell lines stably expressing the human BRS-3 (hBRS-3). hBRS-3 was overexpressed in the human non-small cell lung cancer cells, NCI-H1299, and the other was made in Balb 3T3 cells, which lack endogenous BRS-3. [D-Phe6,beta-Ala11,Phe13, Nle14]Bn-(6-14) (where Nle represents norleucine) was discovered to have high potency for stimulating inositol phosphate formation in both cell lines. [125I-D-Tyr6,beta-Ala11,Phe13, Nle14]Bn-(6-14) bound to both cell lines with high affinity. Neither Bn nor 14 other naturally occurring Bn peptides bound to hBRS-3 with a Kd <1000 nM. Twenty-six synthetic peptides that are high affinity agonists or antagonists at other bombesin receptors had an affinity >1000 nM. Guanosine 5'-(beta,gamma-imido)triphosphate inhibited binding to both cells due to a change in receptor affinity. These results demonstrate hBRS-3 has a unique pharmacology. It does not interact with high affinity with any known natural agonist or high affinity antagonist of the Bn receptor family, suggesting the natural ligand is either an undiscovered member of the Bn peptide family or an unrelated peptide. The availability of these cell lines and the hBRS-3 ligand should facilitate identification of the natural ligand for BRS-3, its pharmacology, and cell biology.