Human adenylyl cyclase 9 is auto-stimulated by its isoform-specific C-terminal domain

Human transmembrane adenylyl cyclase 9 (AC9) is not regulated by heterotrimeric G proteins. Key to the resistance to stimulation by Gs-coupled receptors (GsRs) is auto-inhibition by the COOH-terminal domain (C2b). The present study investigated the role of the C2b domain in the regulation of cyclic AMP production by AC9 in HEK293FT cells expressing the GloSensor22F cyclic AMP-reporter protein. Surprisingly, we found C2b to be essential for sustaining the basal output of cyclic AMP by AC9. A human mutation (E326D) in the parallel coiled-coil formed by the signalling helices of AC9 dramatically increased basal activity, which was also dependent on the C2b domain. Intriguingly, the same mutation enabled stimulation of AC9 by GsRs. In summary, auto-regulation by the C2b domain of AC9 sustains its basal activity and quenches activation by GsR. Thus, AC9 appears to be tailored to support constitutive activation of cyclic AMP effector systems. A switch from this paradigm to stimulation by GsRs may be occasioned by conformational changes at the coiled-coil or removal of the C2b domain.

Phenotypical Screening on Neuronal Plasticity in Hippocampal-Prefrontal Cortex Connectivity Reveals an Antipsychotic with a Novel Profile

Dysfunction in the hippocampus-prefrontal cortex (H-PFC) circuit is a critical determinant of schizophrenia. Screening of pyridazinone-risperidone hybrids on this circuit revealed EGIS 11150 (S 36549). EGIS 11150 induced theta rhythm in hippocampal slice preparations in the stratum lacunosum molecular area of CA1, which was resistant to atropine and prazosin. EGIS 11150 enhanced H-PFC coherence, and increased the 8−9 Hz theta band of the EEG power spectrum (from 0.002 mg/kg i.p, at >30× lower doses than clozapine, and >100× for olanzapine, risperidone, or haloperidol). EGIS 11150 fully blocked the effects of phencyclidine (PCP) or ketamine on EEG. Inhibition of long-term potentiation (LTP) in H-PFC was blocked by platform stress, but was fully restored by EGIS 11150 (0.01 mg/kg i.p.), whereas clozapine (0.3 mg/kg ip) only partially restored LTP. EGIS 11150 has a unique electrophysiological profile, so phenotypical screening on H-PFC connectivity can reveal novel antipsychotics.

Direct stimulation of adenylyl cyclase 9 by the fungicide imidazole miconazole

In mammals, nine genes encode trans-membrane adenylyl cyclase (tmAC) isoforms that synthesize the intracellular messenger compound cAMP from ATP. As cAMP is produced in virtually all types of cell, isoform-selective modulators of tmAC would have major research and therapeutic potential. This study investigated the effects of fungicide imidazoles previously shown to suppress cAMP production in various tissues on the activities of tmAC isoforms AC1, 2, or 9 stably expressed in human embryonic kidney 293 cells. Intact cells, as well as crude membranes, were exposed to various imidazoles or known stimulators of tmAC and the ensuing changes in the production of cAMP analyzed. In crude membranes, the activity of AC9 in the presence of GDP-β-S was enhanced by miconazole with an EC₅₀ of ~ 8 μM, while AC1 and AC2 were inhibited with an IC₅₀ of ~ 20 μM. Clotrimazole (10-100 μM) was an inhibitor of all the ACs tested. Substrate saturation analysis indicated that miconazole increased the V_max of AC9 by 3-fold while having no effect on the K_m. In intact cells, the effect of miconazole on cAMP production through AC9 was additive with that of isoproterenol. The stimulation of cAMP production by miconazole was inhibited by Ca²⁺, and this could be prevented by the calcineurin blocker FK506. In sum, activation of AC9 by miconazole is through a mechanism distinct from that of forskolin, activated G proteins, or the COOH-terminal mediated autoinhibition. However, it is subject to the AC9 isoform-specific inhibition by Ca²⁺/calcineurin. Differential modulation of mammalian tmAC paralogs appears to be achievable by an imidazole with phenylated side chains. Optimization of the lead compound and exploration of the underlying mechanism(s) of action in more detail could exploit this further.

Magnocellular Vasopressin and the Mechanism of "Glucocorticoid Escape"

It is now widely accepted that magnocellular vasopressinergic neurons in the supraoptic and paraventricular nuclei participate in the control of adrenocorticotropin secretion by the anterior pituitary gland. However, it remains to be explored in further detail, when and how these multifunctional neurons are involved in the control of anterior pituitary function. This paper highlights the role of magnocellular vasopressin in the hypothalamic pituitary adrenocortical axis with special reference to escape from glucocorticoid feedback inhibition. The signaling mechanisms underlying glucocorticoid escape by pituitary corticotrope cells, as well as the wider physiologic and pathologic contexts in which escape is known to occur-namely strenuous exercise, and autoimmune inflammation will be considered. It is proposed that by inducing escape from glucocorticoid feedback inhibition at the pituitary level, magnocellular vasopressin is critically important for the anti-inflammatory, and immunosuppressant actions of endogenous corticosteroids.

Auto-inhibition of adenylyl cyclase 9 (AC9) by an isoform-specific motif in the carboxyl-terminal region

Trans-membrane adenylyl cyclase (tmAC) isoforms show markedly distinct regulatory properties that have not been fully explored. AC9 is highly expressed in vital organs such as the heart and the brain. Here, we report that the isoform-specific carboxyl-terminal domain (C2b) of AC9 inhibits the activation of the enzyme by Gs-coupled receptors (GsCR). In human embryonic kidney cells (HEK293) stably overexpressing AC9, cAMP production by AC9 induced upon the activation of endogenous β-adrenergic and prostanoid GsCRs was barely discernible. Cells expressing AC9 lacking the C2b domain showed a markedly enhanced cAMP response to GsCR. Subsequent studies of the response of AC9 mutants to the activation of GsCR revealed that residues 1268-1276 in the C2b domain were critical for auto-inhibition. Two main species of AC9 of 130 K and ≥ 170 K apparent molecular weight were observed on immunoblots of rodent and human myocardial membranes with NH₂-terminally directed anti-AC9 antibodies. The lower molecular weight AC9 band did not react with antibodies directed against the C2b domain. It was the predominant species of AC9 in rodent heart tissue and some of the human samples. There is a single gene for AC9 in vertebrates, moreover, amino acids 957-1353 of the COOH-terminus are encoded by a single exon with no apparent signs of mRNA splicing or editing making it highly unlikely that COOH-terminally truncated AC9 could arise through the processing or editing of mRNA. Thus, deductive reasoning leads to the suggestion that proteolytic cleavage of the C2b auto-inhibitory domain may govern the activation of AC9 by GsCR.

Selective inhibition of extra-synaptic α5-GABAA receptors by S44819, a new therapeutic agent

In the mammalian central nervous system (CNS) GABA_A receptors (GABA_ARs) mediate neuronal inhibition and are important therapeutic targets. GABA_ARs are composed of 5 subunits, drawn from 19 proteins, underpinning expression of 20-30 GABA_AR subtypes. In the CNS these isoforms are heterogeneously expressed and exhibit distinct physiological and pharmacological properties. We report the discovery of S44819, a novel tricyclic oxazolo-2,3-benzodiazepine-derivative, that selectively inhibits α5-subunit-containing GABA_ARs (α5-GABA_ARs). Current α5-GABA_AR inhibitors bind to the "benzodiazepine site". However, in HEK293 cells expressing recombinant α5-GABA_ARs, S44819 had no effect on ³H-flumazenil binding, but displaced the GABA_AR agonist ³H-muscimol and competitively inhibited the GABA-induced responses. Importantly, we reveal that the α5-subunit selectivity is uniquely governed by amino acid residues within the α-subunit F-loop, a region associated with GABA binding. In mouse hippocampal CA1 neurons, S44819 enhanced long-term potentiation (LTP), blocked a tonic current mediated by extrasynaptic α5-GABA_ARs, but had no effect on synaptic GABA_ARs. In mouse thalamic neurons, S44819 had no effect on the tonic current mediated by δ-GABA_ARs, or on synaptic (α1β2γ2) GABA_ARs. In rats, S44819 enhanced object recognition memory and reversed scopolamine-induced impairment of working memory in the eight-arm radial maze. In conclusion, S44819 is a first in class compound that uniquely acts as a potent, competitive, selective antagonist of recombinant and native α5-GABA_ARs. Consequently, S44819 enhances hippocampal synaptic plasticity and exhibits pro-cognitive efficacy. Given this profile, S44819 may improve cognitive function in neurodegenerative disorders and facilitate post-stroke recovery.

A novel GABA(A) alpha 5 receptor inhibitor with therapeutic potential

Novel 2,3-benzodiazepine and related isoquinoline derivatives, substituted at position 1 with a 2-benzothiophenyl moiety, were synthesized to produce compounds that potently inhibited the action of GABA on heterologously expressed GABAA receptors containing the alpha 5 subunit (GABAA α5), with no apparent affinity for the benzodiazepine site. Substitutions of the benzothiophene moiety at position 4 led to compounds with drug-like properties that were putative inhibitors of extra-synaptic GABAA α5 receptors and had substantial blood-brain barrier permeability. Initial characterization in vivo showed that 8-methyl-5-[4-(trifluoromethyl)-1-benzothiophen-2-yl]-1,9-dihydro-2H-[1,3]oxazolo[4,5-h][2,3]benzodiazepin-2-one was devoid of sedative, pro-convulsive or motor side-effects, and enhanced the performance of rats in the object recognition test. In summary, we have discovered a first-in-class GABA-site inhibitor of extra-synaptic GABAA α5 receptors that has promising drug-like properties and warrants further development.

Optical waveguide lightmode spectroscopic techniques for investigating membrane-bound ion channel activities

Optical waveguide lightmode spectroscopic (OWLS) techniques were probed for monitoring ion permeation through channels incorporated into artificial lipid environment. A novel sensor set-up was developed by depositing liposomes or cell-derived membrane fragments onto hydrophilic polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) membrane. The fibrous material of PTFE membrane could entrap lipoid vesicles and the water-filled pores provided environment for the hydrophilic domains of lipid-embedded proteins. The sensor surface was kept clean from the lipid holder PTFE membrane by a water- and ion-permeable polyethylene terephthalate (PET) mesh. The sensor set-up was tested with egg yolk lecithin liposomes containing gramicidin ion channels and with cell-derived membrane fragments enriched in GABA-gated anion channels. The method allowed monitoring the move of Na⁺ and organic cations through gramicidin channels and detecting the Cl^–-channel functions of the (α₅β₂γ₂) GABA_A receptor in the presence or absence of GABA and the competitive GABA-blocker bicuculline.

Synthesis and in vitro evaluation of oxindole derivatives as potential radioligands for 5-HT(7) receptor imaging with PET

The most recently discovered serotonin (5-HT) receptor subtype, 5-HT(7), is considered to be associated with several CNS disorders. Noninvasive in vivo positron emission tomography (PET) studies of cerebral 5-HT(7) receptors could provide a significant advance in the understanding of the neurobiology and eventual dysfunctions of the 5-HT(7) receptor. To date, no appropriate 5-HT(7) receptor PET ligand has been developed. Here, we modified known 5-HT(7) selective phenylpiperazinyl-butyloxindole derivatives so that they may be labeled either with carbon-11 or fluorine-18. A set of potential 5-HT(7) ligands for PET molecular imaging was successfully synthesized. Two compounds (10 and 14) were tested against a range of targets. Both compounds display a promising in vitro profile with respect to PET imaging of the 5-HT(7) receptor in thalamic regions.

Egis-11150: a candidate antipsychotic compound with procognitive efficacy in rodents

Classical antipsychotics, e.g. haloperidol, chlorpromazine, are potent at controlling the positive symptoms of schizophrenia but frequently elicit extrapyramidal motor side-effects. The introduction of atypical antipsychotics such as risperidone, olanzapine and clozapine has obviated this problem, but none of the current drugs seem to improve the cognitive deficits accompanying schizophrenia. Thus there is an unmet need for agents that not only suppress the psychotic symptoms but also ameliorate the impairment of cognition. Here, we report the preclinical properties of a candidate antipsychotic, Egis-11150, that shows marked pro-cognitive efficacy. Egis-11150 displayed high affinity for adrenergic α(1), α(2c), 5-HT(2A) 5-HT₇, moderate affinity for adrenergic α(2a) and D₂ receptors. It was a functional antagonist on all of the above receptors, with the exception of 5-HT₇ receptors, where it was an inverse agonist. Phencyclidine-induced hypermotility in mice and inhibition of conditioned avoidance response in rats were assessed to estimate efficacy against the positive and social withdrawal test in rats was used to predict efficacy against the negative symptoms of schizophrenia. Passive-avoidance learning, novel object recognition and radial maze tests in rats were used to assess pro-cognitive activity, while phencyclidine-induced disruption of prepulse inhibition in mice was examined to test for effects on attention. Egis-11150 (0.01-0.3 mg/kg, ip.) was effective in all of the preclinical models of schizophrenia examined. Moreover, a robust pro-cognitive profile was apparent. In summary, work in preclinical models indicates that Egis-11150 is a potential treatment for controlling the psychosis as well as the cognitive dysfunction in schizophrenia. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled 'Cognitive Enhancers'.

New paradigms in cAMP signalling

Signalling through adenosine 3'5' monophosphate (cAMP) is known to be important in virtually every cell. The mapping of the human genome over the past two decades has revealed an unexpected complexity of cAMP signalling, which is shared from insects to mammals. A more recent technical advance is the ability to monitor intracellular cAMP levels at subcellular spatial resolution within the time-domains of fast biochemical reactions. Thus, new light has been shed on old paradigms, some of which turn out to be multiple new ones. The novel aspects of cAMP signalling are highlighted here: (1) agonist induced plasticity - showing how the repertory of cAMP signalling genes supports homeostatic adaptation; (2) sustained cAMP signalling after endocytosis; (3) pre-assembled receptor-Gs-adenylyl cyclase complexes. Finally, a hypothetical model of propagating neuronal cAMP signals travelling form dendrites to the cell body is presented.

Interactions between intracellular free Ca2+ and cyclic AMP in neuroendocrine cells

Calcium ions and cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) are virtually ubiquitous intracellular signaling molecules in mammalian cells. This paper will focus on the cross-talk between Ca(2+) and cAMP mobilizing signaling pathways and summarize the underlying molecular mechanisms. Subsequently, workings of adenohypophyseal corticotrope cells will be reviewed to highlight the physiological relevance of a Ca(2+) cAMP interactions in neuroendocrinology.

Cellular localisation of adenylyl cyclase: a post-genome perspective

The intracellular messenger cAMP is essential for vital processes ranging from ovulation to cognition. There are 10 genes for adenylyl cyclase (AC), the biosynthetic enzyme of cAMP. Nine of these encode membrane-bound proteins and one gives rise to soluble AC. The understanding of the biological significance of this molecular diversity is incomplete. Membrane-bound ACs conform to the same structural blueprint but have markedly different regulatory characteristics. AC mRNAs are differentially distributed in the body suggesting non-redundant physiological functions. The subcellular localisation of AC isoforms has not been examined in detail. Here we discuss the current knowledge on the intracellular targeting of AC isoforms, and highlight the technical problems of AC detection, some of which appear to be caused by the poor quality-control of commercially supplied antibodies. The principal message is that intracellular targeting of ACs may be isoform-specific and also dependent on the cellular context of expression.

Distinct stoichiometry of BKCa channel tetramer phosphorylation specifies channel activation and inhibition by cAMP-dependent protein kinase

Large conductance voltage- and calcium-activated potassium (BK(Ca)) channels are important signaling molecules that are regulated by multiple protein kinases and protein phosphatases at multiple sites. The pore-forming alpha-subunits, derived from a single gene that undergoes extensive alternative pre-mRNA splicing, assemble as tetramers. Although consensus phosphorylation sites have been identified within the C-terminal domain of alpha-subunits, it is not known whether phosphorylation of all or single alpha-subunits within the tetramer is required for functional regulation of the channel. Here, we have exploited a strategy to study single-ion channels in which both the alpha-subunit splice-variant composition is defined and the number of consensus phosphorylation sites available within each tetramer is known. We have used this approach to demonstrate that cAMP-dependent protein kinase (PKA) phosphorylation of the conserved C-terminal PKA consensus site (S899) in all four alpha-subunits is required for channel activation. In contrast, inhibition of BK(Ca) channel activity requires phosphorylation of only a single alpha-subunit at a splice insert (STREX)-specific PKA consensus site (S4(STREX)). Thus, distinct modes of BK(Ca) channel regulation by PKA phosphorylation exist: an "all-or-nothing" rule for activation and a "single-subunit" rule for inhibition. This essentially digital regulation has important implications for the combinatorial and conditional regulation of BK(Ca) channels by reversible protein phosphorylation.

Short-term plasticity of cyclic adenosine 3',5'-monophosphate signaling in anterior pituitary corticotrope cells: the role of adenylyl cyclase isotypes

Anterior pituitary corticotropes show a wide repertory of responses to hypothalamic neuropeptides and adrenal corticosteroids. The hypothesis that plasticity of the cAMP signaling system underlies this adaptive versatility was investigated. In dispersed rat anterior pituitary cells, depletion of intracellular Ca2+ stores with thapsigargin combined with ryanodine or caffeine enhanced the corticotropin releasing-factor (CRF)-evoked cAMP response by 4-fold, whereas reduction of Ca2+ entry alone had no effect. CRF-induced cAMP was amplified 15-fold by arginine-vasopressin (AVP) or phorbol-dibutyrate ester. In the presence of inhibitors of cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterases and phorbol-dibutyrate ester, the depletion of Ca2+ stores had no further effect on CRF-induced cAMP accumulation. Adenohypophysial expression of mRNAs for the Ca2+-inhibited adenylyl cyclases (ACs) VI and IX, and the protein kinase C-stimulated ACs II and VII was demonstrated. ACIX was detected in corticotropes by immunocytochemistry, whereas ACII and ACVI were not present. The data show negative feedback regulation of CRF-induced cAMP levels by Ca2+ derived from ryanodine receptor-operated intracellular stores. Stimulation of protein kinase C by AVP enhances Ca2+-independent cAMP synthesis, thus changing the characteristics of intracellular Ca2+ feedback. It is proposed that the modulation of intracellular Ca2+ feedback in corticotropes by AVP is an important element of physiological control.

Small ligands modulating the activity of mammalian adenylyl cyclases: a novel mode of inhibition by calmidazolium

Molecular cloning of membrane-spanning mammalian adenylyl cyclases (ACs) has led to the discovery of nine different isotypes, making ACs potentially useful therapeutic targets. This study investigated the mechanism by which fungicidal nitroimidazole compounds modulate AC activity. Current evidence indicates that biological control of AC activity occurs through the cytosolic domains. Hence, full-length ACII, ACIX, and recombinant fusion proteins composed of the cytoplasmic loops of human ACIX or the first and second cytoplasmic loops of rat ACV and ACII, respectively, were expressed in human embryonic kidney 293 cells. The AC activities of the respective proteins were characterized, and their modulation by nitroimidazoles was investigated. Calmidazolium inhibited the activities of both full-length ACs and soluble fusion proteins (IC(50), approximately 10 microM). Inhibition of ACIX by calmidazolium was mediated by direct interaction with the catalytic core in a noncompetitive fashion. ACIX was essentially insensitive to 2'-deoxyadenosine 3'-monophosphate, a known blocker of AC activity. The ACV-ACII fusion protein was inhibited by calmidazolium (IC(50), approximately 20 microM) as well as by 2'-deoxyadenosine 3'-AMP (IC(50), approximately 2 microM), in a manner indicating independent mechanisms of action. Taken together, the data demonstrate that ACIX is insensitive to adenosine analogs and that calmidazolium inhibits AC activity by a novel, noncompetitive mechanism.

Posttranslational modulation of glucocorticoid feedback inhibition at the pituitary level

Diagnostic tests of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenocortical function in psychiatric illness largely report the interaction of hypothalamic secretagogues with glucocorticoids at the pituitary level. This study investigated whether the efficiency of glucocorticoid inhibition is subject to modulation by intracellular processes that enhance cAMP accumulation and/or facilitate membrane depolarization. The secretion of ACTH induced by corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF; 0.1 nM) in primary cultures of rat anterior pituitary cells was markedly inhibited upon a 2-h exposure to 100 nM corticosterone. Arginine vasopressin (2 nM) enhanced the cAMP as well as the ACTH responses to CRF and reduced the efficiency of glucocorticoid inhibition of ACTH release. The action of arginine vasopressin was mimicked by rolipram, an inhibitor of cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterase type 4. Application of the broad specificity K(+) channel blockers clofilium and astemizole produced minor or no significant enhancement of CRF-induced ACTH release, respectively, but opposed the inhibitory effect of corticosterone. Specific blockers of HERG, KCNQ, and Isk channels had no effect on ACTH release under any condition examined. In summary, these data reveal multiple sites of posttranslational modulation of adrenal corticosteroid action at the level of the pituitary gland, which appear important for the outcome of diagnostic tests of hypothalamic-pituitary- adrenocortical function.

Functional plasticity of cyclic AMP hydrolysis in rat adenohypophysial corticotroph cells

Characterisation of cyclic nucleotide-hydrolysing phosphodiesterases (PDEs) in recombinant systems has highlighted regulatory properties indicative of distinct physiological roles for these enzymes. The present study investigated the role of PDEs in the adenosine 3'5'-monophosphate (cAMP) response to the hypothalamic neuropeptides corticotrophin-releasing factor (CRF) and arginine vasopressin (AVP) in acutely dispersed rat adenohypophysial cells. Ca(2+)-activated PDE (PDE1) and Ca(2+)-independent, rolipram-sensitive PDE (PDE4) accounted for close to 90% of cAMP-hydrolysing activity in the adenohypophysis. Messenger RNA transcripts of PDE1 (isotypes 1A and 1C) and PDE4 (isotypes B and D3) were detected by RT-PCR. The PDE blockers rolipram and IBMX enhanced cAMP accumulation induced by CRF or CRF and AVP. Vinpocetine, an inhibitor of low K(m) PDE1 isotypes, did not alter the response to CRF but enhanced the effect of the combined CRF/AVP stimulus. Thus, PDE4s terminate the cAMP response to moderate stimulation, while low-affinity PDE1 becomes important when the concentrations of CRF and AVP are characteristic of exposure to intensive stress.

Reciprocal regulation of calcium dependent and calcium independent cyclic AMP hydrolysis by protein phosphorylation

The hydrolysis of cyclic nucleotide second messengers takes place through multiple cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterases (PDEs). The significance of this diversification is not fully understood. Here we report the differential regulation of low K(m) Ca2+-activated (PDE1C) and Ca2+-independent, rolipram-sensitive (PDE4) PDEs by protein phosphorylation in the neuroendocrine cell line AtT20. Incubation of cells with 8-(4-chlorophenylthio)-cyclic AMP (CPT-cAMP) enhanced PDE4 and reduced PDE1C activity. These effects were blocked by H89 indicating mediation by cAMP-dependent protein kinase (PKA), furthermore in broken cell preparations PKA produced the same reciprocal changes of PDE activities. Calyculin A, an inhibitor of protein phosphatases 1 and 2 A, stimulated PDE4 and enhanced the inhibitory effect of CPT-cAMP on PDE1C. The reduction of PDE1C activity was characterized by a marked attenuation of the activation by Ca2+/calmodulin. Stimulation of PDE4 activity by CPT-cAMP or calyculin A was attributable to PDE4D3 and these effects could also be reproduced in human embryonic kidney cells expressing epitope-tagged PDE4D3. Together, these data show reciprocal regulation of PDE1C and PDE4D by PKA, which represents a novel scheme for plasticity in intracellular signalling.

Alternative splicing determines sensitivity of murine calcium-activated potassium channels to glucocorticoids

1. Large-conductance Ca(2+)- and voltage-activated potassium (BK) channels are important regulators of cellular excitability. Here, we present a patch-clamp electrophysiological analysis of splice-variant-specific regulation by the synthetic glucocorticoid dexamethasone (DEX) of BK channels consisting of cloned STREX or ZERO alpha-subunit variants expressed in human embryonic kidney (HEK 293) cells. 2. STREX channels in isolated membrane patches were inhibited by protein kinase A (PKA) and this was blocked on pre-treatment of intact cells with DEX (100 nM) for 2 h. 3. The effect of DEX required the synthesis of new mRNA and protein. Furthermore, it required protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A)-like activity intimately associated with the channels, as it was blocked by 10 nM okadaic acid but not by the specific protein phosphatase-1 inhibitor peptide PPI-2. 4. ZERO variant channels that lack the STREX insert were activated by PKA but were not influenced by DEX. ZERO channels containing a mutant STREX domain (S4(STREX)A) were also activated by PKA. Importantly, DEX blocked PKA activation of S4(STREX)A channels in a PP2A-dependent manner. 5. Taken together, the STREX domain is crucial for glucocorticoid regulation of BK channels through a PP2A-type enzyme. Moreover, glucocorticoids appear to induce a generic set of proteins in different types of cells, the actions of which depend on the expression of cell-specific targets.

Expression of adenylyl cyclase type IX and calcineurin in synapses of the central nervous system

Distribution of type IX adenylyl cyclase and protein phosphatase calcineurin in the brain and in cultured hippocampal neurons from albino rat was immunohistochemically studied. Both enzymes were detected simultaneously in all synaptic structures of most cerebral neurons except for presynaptic sites, where calcium-inhibited type IX adenylyl cyclase was absent.

Characterisation of human adenylyl cyclase IX reveals inhibition by Ca(2+)/Calcineurin and differential mRNA plyadenylation

The functional diversity of adenylyl cyclases provides for different modes of cyclic AMP signalling in mammals. This study reports the cloning and functional characterisation of a cDNA encoding human adenylyl cyclase IX (ACIX). The data show that human ACIX is a Ca(2+)/calcineurin-inhibited adenylyl cyclase prominently expressed in vital organs, including brain, heart, and pancreas. ACIX mRNA was detected in several brain regions, including neocortex, hippocampus, striatum, and cerebellum. By in situ hybridisation, ACIX mRNA was localised to pyramidal and granule cells of the hippocampus, indicating that it is expressed predominantly in nerve cells. Further analysis of ACIX mRNA expression revealed two major forms of ACIX mRNA that arose through tissue-specific differential mRNA polyadenylation. Taken together, the data show that (a) human ACIX is under inhibitory control by Ca(2+) through calcineurin, (b) ACIX may be involved in higher brain functions, and (c) post-transcriptional regulation of ACIX gene expression is a species-specific control mechanism that may enhance the versatility of cyclic AMP signalling in humans.

Molecular diversity of cyclic AMP signalling

Several neuroendocrine control systems are prominently controlled by G-protein coupled receptors that activate the cAMP signal transduction pathway. The discovery of multiple genes that encode the molecular machinery of cAMP metabolism has revolutionized our knowledge of cAMP mediated processes. This perhaps all too familiar second messenger can be generated by nine different membrane enzymes in the context of varied levels of activation of G proteins as well as Ca(2+)- and protein kinase C-dependent processes. The amplitude, length and subcellular distribution of the cAMP signal are further modulated by over twenty functionally distinct isotypes of cAMP-degrading phosphodiesterases in a cell- and stimulus-specific manner. The present review summarizes the key properties of the molecular machinery that generates the cAMP signal and highlights how it is deployed in neuroendocrine systems.

Molecular components of large conductance calcium-activated potassium (BK) channels in mouse pituitary corticotropes

Large-conductance calcium- and voltage- activated potassium (BK) channels play a fundamental role in the signaling pathways regulating mouse anterior pituitary corticotrope function. Here we describe the cloning and functional characterization of the components of mouse corticotrope BK channels. RT-PCR cloning and splice variant analysis of mouse AtT20 D16:16 corticotropes revealed robust expression of mslo transcripts encoding pore-forming alpha-subunits containing the mouse homolog of the 59-amino acid STREX-1 exon at splice site 2. RT-PCR and functional analysis, using the triterpenoid glycoside, DHS-1, revealed that native corticotrope BK channels are not functionally coupled to beta-subunits in vivo. Functional expression of the STREX-1 containing alpha-subunit in HEK 293 cells resulted in BK channels with calcium sensitivity, single-channel conductance, and inhibition by protein kinase A identical to that of native mouse corticotrope BK channels. This report represents the first corticotrope ion channel to be characterized at the molecular level and demonstrates that mouse corticotrope BK channels are composed of alpha-subunits expressing the mouse STREX-1 exon.

Ca2+/calcineurin-inhibited adenylyl cyclase, highly abundant in forebrain regions, is important for learning and memory

Activation of cAMP synthesis by intracellular Ca2+ is thought to be the main mode of cAMP generation in the brain. Accordingly, the Ca2+-activated adenylyl cyclases I and VIII are expressed prominently in forebrain neurons. The present study shows that the novel adenylyl cyclase type IX is inhibited by Ca2+ and that this effect is blocked selectively by inhibitors of calcineurin such as FK506 and cyclosporin A. Moreover, adenylyl cyclase IX is inhibited by the same range of intracellular free Ca2+ concentrations that stimulate adenylyl cyclase I. Adenylyl cyclase IX is expressed prominently in the forebrain. Substantial arrays of neurons positive for AC9 mRNA were found in the olfactory lobe, in limbic and neocortical areas, in the striatum, and in the cerebellar system. These data show that the initiation of the cAMP signal by adenylyl cyclase may be controlled by Ca2+/calcineurin and thus provide evidence for a novel mode of tuning the cAMP signal by protein phosphorylation/dephosphorylation cascades.

Circadian changes of type II adenylyl cyclase mRNA in the rat suprachiasmatic nuclei

Circadian functions of the suprachiasmatic nuclei (SCN) are influenced by cyclic AMP (cAMP). Adenylyl cyclase type II (AC-II) is a cAMP-generating enzyme which, in the context of activation by Gsalpha, is further stimulated by protein kinase C or G protein betagamma subunits. Using in situ hybridization we have found a biphasic variation in AC-II mRNA within the rat SCN during the light-dark cycle (peaks at Zeitgeber time 6 and 18) and also in constant darkness (peaks at circadian time 2 and 14). The cingulate cortex showed no such variation. These findings suggest that circadian changes in AC-II expression may be pertinent to the rhythmic functions of the SCN.

Depolarization counteracts glucocorticoid inhibition of adenohypophysical corticotroph cells

In AtT20 mouse corticotroph tumour cells large conductance Ca2+-activated K+-channels (BK-channels) have an essential role in the early glucocorticoid inhibition of adrenocorticotrophin (ACTH) secretion evoked by corticotrophin-releasing factor. The present study examined whether or not BK-channels are also pivotal to glucocorticoid inhibition of normal rat anterior pituitary cells. A membrane-permeant, non-metabolizable cyclic AMP analogue, 8-(4-Chlorophenylthio)adenosine-3',5'-cyclic-monophosphate (CPT-cAMP) was used as the primary secretagogue stimulus, as this mimics the increase of intracellular cyclic AMP caused by corticotrophin-releasing factor, but is not subject to the complex Ca2+-dependent regulation of cyclic AMP metabolism that is evident in corticotroph cells. Experiments in AtT20 cells showed that ACTH secretion stimulated by 1 mM CPT-cAMP was suppressed to 34+/-1.5% (n = 12) of the control stimulus by a maximal dose of 100 nM dexamethasone. The ACTH secretion evoked by the combination of 1 mM CPT-cAMP with either 5 microm (-)BayK8644 (L-type Ca2+-channel activator) or 5 mM TEA (K+-channel blocker) was respectively 69.1+/-7.6% and 69.3+/-11.8% of control after 2 h preincubation with 100 nM dexamethasone (P<0.05 vs CPT-cAMP). The ACTH response elicited by 5 microM (-)BayK8644 and 5 mM TEA given together was completely resistant to inhibition by 100 nM dexamethasone. Furthermore, TEA and (-)BayK8644 given together synergistically stimulated ACTH release in combination with 0.1 mM or 1 mM CPT-cAMP, and these ACTH responses were not inhibited by 100 nM dexamethasone. In primary cultures of rat anterior pituitary cells, TEA (up to 20 mM), charybdotoxin (30 nM) or apamin (100 nM) failed to modify the glucocorticoid inhibition of 0.1 mM CPT-cAMP-induced ACTH release. The combination of 5 mM TEA and 5 microM (-)BayK8644 elicited a small but significant increase in ACTH secretion but did not modify the inhibition of 0.3 mM CPT-cAMP-induced ACTH secretion by 100 nM dexamethasone. In primary cultures of rat anterior pituitary cells, depolarization of the membrane potential with 40 mM KCl enhanced the ACTH response to CPT-cAMP and markedly reduced the maximal inhibitory effect of dexamethasone to 55+/-1.2% as well as that of corticosterone to 33+/-2.1% vs 100+/-2.5% and 100+/-1.9% inhibition respectively, when 0.1 mM CPT-cAMP was used alone. Introduction of 5 microM (-)BayK8644 with 40 mM KCl in this system had no additional effect on glucocorticoid inhibition. No glucocorticoid inhibition of ACTH release to any of the stimuli applied was observed in cells pretreated with the mRNA synthesis inhibitor, 5,6-dichloro-furanosyl-benzimidazole riboside (DRB) (0.1 mM) or the protein synthesis blocker, puromycin (0.1 mM). In summary, early glucocorticoid inhibition of stimulated ACTH release by cultured rat anterior pituitary cells was dependent on the synthesis of new mRNA and protein. Depolarization of the membrane potential potentiated CPT-cAMP-induced ACTH secretion in AtT20 cells as well as cultured rat corticotrophs and this was associated with a resistance to the early inhibitory effect of glucocorticoids. Glucocorticoid inhibition in rat anterior pituitary corticotrophs was unaltered by TEA, charybdotoxin as well as apamin, and hence it is unlikely to involve predominantly BK-or SK-type Ca2+-activated K+-channels. These results support the thesis that a prime target of glucocorticoid feedback inhibition in anterior pituitary corticotrophs is the membrane potential and indicate that glucocorticoid-induced proteins regulate the activities of several distinct plasma membrane ion channels.

Involvement of calyculin A inhibitable protein phosphatases in the cyclic AMP signal transduction pathway of mouse corticotroph tumour (AtT20) cells

1. The role of non-calcineurin protein phosphatases in the cyclic AMP signal transduction pathway was examined in mouse pituitary corticotroph tumour (AtT20) cells. 2. Blockers of protein phosphatases, calyculin A and okadaic acid, were applied in AtT20 cells depleted of rapidly mobilizable pools of intracellular calcium and activated by various cyclic AMP generating agonists. Inhibitors of cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterases were present throughout. The accumulation of cyclic AMP was monitored by radioimmunoassay, phosphodiesterase activity in cell homogenates was measured by radiometric assay. 3. Neither calyculin A nor okadaic acid altered basal cyclic AMP levels but cyclic AMP formation induced by 41 amino acid residue corticotrophin releasing-factor (CRF) was strongly inhibited (up to 80%), 1-Norokadaone was inactive. Similar data were also obtained when isoprenaline or pituitary adenylate cyclase activating peptide1-38 were used as agonists. 4. Pertussis toxin did not modify the inhibition of CRF-induced cyclic AMP production by calyculin A. 5. Pretreatment with calyculin A completely prevented the stimulation of cyclic AMP formation by cholera toxin even in the presence of 0.5 mM isobutylmethylxanthine (IBMX) and 0.1 mM rolipram. Cholera toxin mediated ADP-ribosylation of the 45 K and 52 K molecular weight Gs alpha isoforms in membranes from calyculin A-pretreated cells was enhanced to 150-200% when compared with controls. 6. Cholera toxin-induced cyclic AMP was reduced by calyculin A within 10 min when calyculin A was applied after a 90 min pretreatment with cholera toxin. Under these conditions the effect of calyculin A could be blocked by the combination of 0.5 mM IBMX and 0.1 mM rolipram, but not by 0.5 mM IBMX alone. 7. Phosphodiesterase activity in AtT20 cell homogenates showed a significant, 2.7 fold increase after treatment with calyculin A. In control cells phosphodiesterase activity was blocked by 80% in the presence of IBMX (0.5 mM), or IBMX plus rolipram (0.1 mM). In calyculin A-treated cells phosphodiesterase activity was also strongly inhibited by IBMX, but because of the stimulating effect of calyculin A, the activity remaining was still 55% of that found in control homogenates. This activity was reduced to 5% of control by using IBMX and rolipram in combination. Assay of phosphodiesterase in Ca2+ free conditions showed that calyculin A markedly increases the activity of rolipram sensitive (type 4) phosphodiesterase. 8. Taken together, blockers of protein phosphatases (PPases) impaired signal transduction through Gs-mediated pathways and activated cyclic AMP degrading phosphodiesterase(s), indicating that PPases 1 and/or 2A are essential for agonist-mediated regulation of cyclic AMP levels in AtT20 cells, and are thus important in maintaining the secretory phenotype of the cells.

Calcium regulation of adenylyl cyclase relevance for endocrine control

A fundamental process in the hormonal regulation of body functions is the conversion of the intercellular signal into an intracellular signal. The first recognized intracellular messengers mediating the actions of hormones were calcium ions (Ca(2+)) and adenosine 3':5' monophosphate (cAMP), which is synthesized from ATP by adenylyl cyclase. Recent work on the structure of adenylyl cyclases has shown that these enzymes are individually tailored molecular machines controlled by diverse Ca(2+)-dependent mechanisms. These include allosteric regulation of enzyme activity through the Ca(2+)-receptor protein calmodulin, apparently direct actions of Ca(2+)on the cyclase catalytic moiety and phosphorylation/dephosphorylation by Ca(2+)-regulated protein kinases and protein phosphatases. This article is a brief review of the recent developments in the area of cyclase control that forecast a major revival of the interest in cAMP-Ca(2+)interactions. (c) 1997, Elsevier Science Inc. (Trends Endocrinol Metab 1997;8:7-14).

Mortyn Jones Memorial Lecture--1995. Calcium checks cyclic AMP--corticosteroid feedback in adenohypophysial corticotrophs

This paper summarizes a particular aspect of the stress response-the negative feedback control of anterior pituitary adrenocorticotrophin secretion with special focus on the mechanism of action of protein(s) rapidly induced by glucocorticoids. The main thesis is that the principal intracellular mechanism underlying corticosteroid inhibition of corticotroph secretory function is the opposition of cAMP-mediated activation by calcium ions. An increase of intracellular cAMP levels in corticotrophs produces a rise in intracellular free Ca2+ known to be essential for triggering hormone secretion. In parallel, calcium regulates agonist-induced cAMP accumulation through inhibition of adenylyl cyclase and the stimulation of cAMP-degrading phosphodiesterase. Furthermore, a key action of cAMP is the inhibition of a slow, sustained potassium current which is activated by calcium ions. Collectively, the actions of calcium constitute a powerful intracellular feedback inhibition of cAMP-induced cellular activation. Analysis of corticosteroid action in mouse corticotroph tumour (AtT20) cells indicates that the essence of corticosteroid feedback inhibition is the amplification of intracellular calcium feedback. A common mediator of the inhibitory actions of calcium may be the calcium receptor protein calmodulin the de novo synthesis of which is rapidly stimulated by glucocorticoid hormones. Targets of glucocorticoid-induced calmodulin may include the protein phosphatase calcineurin, calmodulin-activated phosphodiesterase(s), and BK-type potassium channels. The net result of calcium feedback inhibition is a reduction of Ca2+ available for the facilitation of secretory activity i.e. calcium-induced desensitization. It is proposed that the intracellular calcium feedback loop outlined above also operates in the CNS components of negative corticosteroid feedback. A personal note: Professor Mortyn Jones introduced me to this field of research. His open-minded and critical approach to experimental work has always remained a guiding principle for my own efforts, and I hope that this paper which is dedicated to his memory will be found worthy of its purpose.

Glucocorticoids block protein kinase A inhibition of calcium-activated potassium channels

Adrenal corticosteroids have well known and profound effects on neurons and neuroendocrine cells, but the underlying cellular mechanisms are poorly understood. The present study analyzed membrane currents and ACTH release in AtT20 mouse pituitary corticotrope tumor cells. Patch-clamp analysis revealed a significant and selective inhibition of calcium-activated (BK-type) potassium channels upon activation of protein kinase A by corticotropin-releasing factor or 8-chlorophenylthio-cAMP. The synthetic glucocorticoid dexamethasone had no effect on potassium currents evoked by depolarization but prevented the inhibitory effect of protein kinase A activators. The action of dexamethasone had the hallmarks of protein induction, i.e. a lag time and sensitivity to inhibitors of DNA transcription and mRNA translation. In parallel, the specific BK channel blocker iberiotoxin abolished early glucocorticoid inhibition of corticotropin-releasing factor-stimulated ACTH secretion. In summary, the present data show that glucocorticoid-induced proteins render BK-type channels resistant to inhibition by protein kinase A and that this action of the steroid is pivotal for its early inhibitory effect on the secretion of ACTH.

Calcineurin feedback inhibition of agonist-evoked cAMP formation

The effects of immunosuppressant blockers of calcineurin (protein phosphatase 2B) on cAMP formation and hormone release were investigated in mouse pituitary tumor (AtT20) cells. Immunosuppressants enhanced corticotropin-releasing factor- and isoproterenol-evoked cAMP production in proportion with their potency to block calcineurin. Further analysis of cAMP production revealed that intracellular Ca2+ derived through voltage-regulated calcium channels reduces cAMP formation induced by corticotropin releasing-factor or beta 2-adrenergic stimulation and that this effect of Ca2+ is inhibited by blockers of calcineurin. AtT20 cells were found to express at least three species of adenylyl cyclase mRNA-encoding types 1 and 6 as well as a novel isotype, which appeared to be the predominant species. In two cell lines expressing very low or undetectable levels of the novel cyclase mRNA (NCB20 and HEK293 cells respectively), corticotropin-releasing factor-induced cAMP formation was not altered upon blockage of calcineurin activity. These data identify calcineurin as a Ca2+ sensor that mediates the negative feedback effect of intracellular Ca2+ on receptor-stimulated cAMP production. Furthermore, the effect of calcineurin on cAMP synthesis appears to be associated with the expression of a novel adenylyl cyclase isotype, which is highly abundant in AtT20 cells.

Control of a novel adenylyl cyclase by calcineurin

The molecular complex formed by the immunosuppressant FK506 and the immunophilin protein FKBP12 potently inhibits the Ca2+/calmodulin-activated protein phosphatase calcineurin. This mechanism appears to be common to all types of cell, implying that fundamental physiological modes of calcineurin regulation are exploited by immunosuppressants. The present paper describes a novel adenylyl cyclase regulated by calcineurin that contains an FKBP12-like domain and may thus constitute a physiologically relevant calcineurin docking site mimicked by immunosuppressant-immunophilin complexes. The enzyme messenger RNA is particularly enriched in the cerebral cortex, striatum and hippocampus, where it is localized to neuronal perikarya, indicative of an important role in neuronal function.

Selective enhancement of an A type potassium current by dexamethasone in a corticotroph cell line

Perforated patch recording was used to examine the effect of the synthetic steroid dexamethasone on the whole cell potassium (K+) current, in the mouse corticotroph tumour cell line AtT20/D16-16. In 15 out of 52 control cells (29%) there was a rapidly-activating, rapidly-inactivating K+ current of the A type, the amplitude of which was strongly dependent on the holding potential in use prior to its activation by depolarising voltage pulses, and which was blocked by 1 mM 4-aminopyridine (4-AP, n = 5). The effect of dexamethasone (100 nM, 2 h, 37 degrees C) was that the A current increased in prevalence (24 out of 31 cells, 77%), lost its dependence on holding potential (over the range studied), and as a result became significantly larger than in controls, for certain voltage steps (peak A current density was 18.5 +/- 2.4 pA/pF (n = 12) for control cells and 26.3 +/- 3.9 pA/pF (n = 18) for dexamethasone treated cells, for a step to +30 mV from -60 mV, values are mean +/- SEM). All cells exhibited a slowly-activating, sustained K+ current, which was unaffected by changes in the holding potential, unaffected by 4-AP and consisted of at least 3 components: one blocked by 30 mM tetraethylammonium(TEA) or 100 nM charybdotoxin (CTX); a second blocked by 100 nM apamin; and a third not blocked by TEA, CTX, apamin, clofilium (100 nM) or niflumic acid (0.1 mM). Dexamethasone produced no change in the slowly-activating, sustained current nor in any of its individual components. The effect of dexamethasone on the A current was completely blocked by 0.1 mM puromycin, a protein synthesis blocker, while puromycin alone did not affect the size or frequency of the A current, nor alter the slowly-activating, sustained current. Secretion studies using 4-AP confirmed that the A current has a role in stimulated adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH) secretion. In summary, AtT20 cells contain at least four types of K+ current: an A current and 3 currents contributing to the slowly-activating current. Selective enhancement of the A current by dexamethasone, shown here to require synthesis of new protein, is one of the mechanisms whereby glucocorticoids exert inhibitory control on ACTH secretion.

Inhibitory role for calcineurin in stimulus-secretion coupling revealed by FK506 and cyclosporin A in pituitary corticotrope tumor cells

The properties of the calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein phosphatase calcineurin and its potential role in stimulus-secretion coupling were examined in AtT20 mouse pituitary corticotrope tumor cells. Protein phosphatase activity was assayed by measuring the liberation of 32P from 32P-casein, adrenocorticotropin secretion was measured by radioimmunoassay. About 60% of the total phosphatase activity was inhibited by 500 nM okadaic acid, suggesting the presence of protein phosphatases 1 and/or 2A. A further 25-30% reduction of phosphatase activity was achieved by chelating free calcium. Addition of the EF-hand protein blocker trifluoperazine or a calcineurin autoinhibitory peptide fragment markedly reduced okadaic acid resistant and calcium-dependent protein phosphatase activity indicating that calcium-dependent 32P release is largely due to calcineurin (protein phosphatase 2B). The remaining 10-15% of total activity was Mg2+ dependent and blocked by NaF, hence possibly due to protein phosphatase 2C. Calcineurin activity was inhibited by the immunosuppressants FK506 and cyclosporin A, either when added to the cell lysates or after preincubation of intact cells with the drugs for 30 min at 37 degrees C. When added to lysates, cyclosporin A inhibited calcium/calmodulin-dependent phosphatase more effectively than FK506. However, when tested on intact cells, FK506 proved 10-fold more potent than cyclosporin A. Both immunosuppressive agents enhanced the calcium-dependent release of adrenocorticotropic hormone into the medium, once more, FK506 was 10-fold more potent than cyclosporin A. Taken together, these data suggest that calcineurin is an inhibitory element in the signal transduction pathway controlling exocytotic secretion in pituitary cells that express voltage-operated calcium channels. This is in direct contrast with leukocytes where voltage-operated calcium channels are not found, and calcineurin is an important element for agonist-induced activation.

Specific oxytocin agonist stimulates prolactin release but has no effect on inositol phosphate accumulation in isolated rat anterior pituitary cells

We have previously characterized specific oxytocin receptors in the rat anterior pituitary gland, using a highly selective oxytocin receptor antagonist as radioligand. The aim of the present study was to examine whether occupation of these receptors by oxytocin produces a stimulation of prolactin release and a rise in the accumulation of total inositol phosphates in the rat adenohypophysis. Anterior pituitary cells harvested from randomly cycling and diethylstilboestrol (100 micrograms s.c.)-treated rats were perifused with Dulbecco's minimal essential medium at a rate of 0.3 ml/min. Oxytocin and the specific oxytocin agonist [Thr4-Gly7]-oxytocin (TG-OT) both stimulated a significant prolactin release at concentrations of 10(-6) and 10(-7) M. Oestrogen treatment did not affect the response to oxytocin, indicating that there is no straightforward correlation between receptor number and prolactin secretory response in the rat pituitary gland. The involvement of phosphoinositide hydrolysis was investigated in dispersed anterior pituitary cells and uterine tissue from randomly cycling rats. Oxytocin and arginine-vasopressin stimulated a significant (P < 0.05) and dose-related increase in total inositol phosphates, vasopressin being more potent. The specific oxytocin agonist TG-OT had no effect on total inositol phosphate production in pituitary cells, but when tested in uterine tissue it significantly (P < 0.05) stimulated the accumulation of total inositol phosphate at all concentrations tested (10(-5) to 10(-9) M). In conclusion, the data show that oxytocin has prolactin-releasing activity, acting on specific receptors in the anterior pituitary gland.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Vasopressinergic control of pituitary adrenocorticotropin secretion comes of age

This article summarizes the importance of arginine vasopressin (AVP) in the control of adrenocorticotropin (ACTH) secretion, with special reference to interactions with corticotropin releasing factor (CRF-41), glucocorticoids, and the purported corticotropin release inhibiting peptide atriopeptin. AVP that participates in the regulation of ACTH release at the pituitary level is produced in two main groups of neurons in the hypothalamus: parvicellular cells in the paraventricular nucleus, which also produce CRF-41, and magnocellular neurons in the supraoptic and paraventricular nuclei. The role of the latter in anterior pituitary hormone release has been debated for many years. Evidence generated in the last 5 years shows quite convincingly that AVP released by magnocellular neurons is, in fact, also involved in the control of ACTH. Nevertheless, it is clear that corticotrope cells require CRF-41 to maintain their capacity to secrete ACTH. This is at least due partly to the fact that AVP does not increase proopiomelanocortin mRNA transcription, while CRF-41 is a potent inducer of this gene. New developments in the area of corticotrope cell physiology are discussed, highlighting evidence for dual ACTH secreting pathways in anterior pituitary cells, which may be controlled separately by AVP and CRF-41. Evidence for interactions between ACTH secretagogues and peptidergic as well as glucocorticoid inhibitors of ACTH secretion is reviewed to demonstrate that an important aspect of AVP/CRF-41 dualism may be associated with the ability of the secretagogues to selectively modulate the efficacy of inhibitory factors. Finally, by citing examples from physiological studies on the regulation of ACTH secretion, it is shown how the multicomponent hypothalamic regulatory system operates, emphasizing the considerable signal integrating role of the adenohypophysial corticotrope cell.

Early glucocorticoid induction of calmodulin and its suppression by corticotropin-releasing factor in pituitary corticotrope tumor (AtT20) cells

Glucocorticoids inhibit stimulus-evoked ACTH secretion by the rapid induction of new protein(s) that suppress intracellular free calcium signals. The present study examined whether the calcium receptor protein, calmodulin, is induced by glucocorticoids in the mouse pituitary corticotrope tumor (AtT20 D16:16) cell line. Treatment of AtT20 D16:16 cells with the synthetic glucocorticoid dexamethasone markedly (up to 10-fold) increased the level of a single (approximately 1.6kb) calmodulin mRNA 90 min after the application of steroid. Puromycin applied 15 min before and during dexamethasone treatment blocked the induction of this mRNA, suggesting that additional glucocorticoid induced transcription factor proteins may be required for enhanced calmodulin gene transcription. A two-fold increase in the intensity of an approximately 18K immunoreactive calmodulin protein band was detected by immunoblotting at 90 min after dexamethasone administration. Corticotropin releasing factor, added for 30 min at the start of steroid treatment, prevented the increase of calmodulin mRNA, as well as the suppression of corticotropin releasing factor-evoked ACTH release caused by dexamethasone. These data suggest that calmodulin may be involved in the early phase of glucocorticoid inhibition of pituitary ACTH release.

Pituitary corticotrope tumor (AtT20) cells as a model system for the study of early inhibition by glucocorticoids

The utility of the established ACTH secreting mouse pituitary tumor cell line AtT20 for investigating early glucocorticoid inhibition was examined. Three different strains of the cell line D1, D16v, and D16:16, respectively, were analyzed. In initial studies CRF and phorbol esters were used as secretagogues to examine the properties of hormone secretion. In a perifusion system (cells in suspension) D1 cells failed to respond to the secretagogues, whereas both D16v and D16:16 cells were responsive. However, hormone release declined upon repeated exposure to secretagogue in both D16v and D16:16 cells and similar data were obtained when cells adhering to cover slips were perifused. In static incubation D16:16 cells gave more consistent results especially with respect to inhibition by glucocorticoids and were used in all subsequent studies. Synthetic glucocorticoids acting through the type II receptor inhibited CRF-induced ACTH release within 45 min; at 120 min, stimulated release was strongly (80-90%) suppressed. In contrast, no consistent inhibition by corticosterone could be found. In the presence of glycyrrhetinic acid, an inhibitor of 11 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, a high concentration of corticosterone (10 microM) did produce a slight inhibition of ACTH release. Dexamethasone also inhibited ACTH release induced by the calcium channel activator compound (+)202-791. The accumulation of cAMP in response to CRF was not altered by dexamethasone. The inhibitory effect of synthetic glucocorticoids on ACTH release was prevented by blockers of messenger RNA (actinomycin D, dichlorobenzimidazole ribofuranoside) or protein (puromycin) biosynthesis, indicating the induction of new proteins. Immunoblotting for lipocortin I (annexin I) and chromogranin A revealed no induction by dexamethasone of any of these proteins in D16:16 cells. Messenger RNA encoding lipocortin I was not detectable and was not induced by treatment with dexamethasone in D16:16 cells. These data show that the AtT20 D16:16 strain is a useful model for early glucocorticoid action, which is mediated by type II receptors and involves the induction of new protein(s). Notably, induction of lipocortin I messenger RNA or protein could not be detected at a time when the inhibitory effect of glucocorticoids on stimulated hormone secretion was maximal.

Glucocorticoid inhibition of stimulus-evoked adrenocorticotrophin release caused by suppression of intracellular calcium signals

Stress provokes a cohort of homeostatic reflexes by the central nervous, the immune as well as the metabolic control systems of the body. These powerful adaptive responses, which can cause a collapse of body homeostasis in the absence of feedback inhibition, are suppressed by adrenal glucocorticoid hormones. A prominent and physiologically significant early action of glucocorticoids that requires the induction of newly synthesized messenger RNA and protein is the suppression of ACTH release by anterior pituitary corticotroph cells. It is demonstrated here that glucocorticoids inhibit stimulated ACTH secretion in pituitary corticotroph tumour (AtT-20) cells by reducing stimulus-evoked intracellular free calcium transients. Thus, the data show for the first time that intracellular calcium signals may be modified by rapidly induced proteins. It is proposed that this is a general mechanism that underlies the early inhibitory effects of glucocorticoids during stress in various types of cell.

Inactivation of early glucocorticoid feedback by corticotropin-releasing factor in vitro

We have investigated the interaction between hypothalamic ACTH secretagogues and adrenocortical glucocorticoids in rat anterior pituitary tissue using an in vitro perifusion system. Repeated 5 min pulses of 41-residue CRF (CRF-41) or arginine vasopressin (AVP) were applied at 1 h intervals for up to 7 h. Administration of 0.1 microM corticosterone 30 min before and during the 5 min 0.1 nM CRF-41 stimulus at 5 h resulted in a significant inhibition of CRF-41 stimulated ACTH release within 30 min. Inhibition of ACTH release also developed if no CRF-41 stimulus was applied in conjunction with steroid at 5 h. In contrast, if the exposure to corticosterone (0.1 microM, 35 min total duration) was started simultaneously with the application of CRF-41 at 5 h, no inhibition of ACTH release ensued. Similarly, no inhibition of CRF-41-stimulated ACTH release was observed when corticosterone was started simultaneously with a 5 min pulse of cyclic 8-(4-Chlorophenylthio) AMP (8-CPT-cAMP), a cell membrane permeant analog of cAMP. In contrast to CRF-41 and 8-CPT-cAMP, AVP failed to modify glucocorticoid-induced inhibition of AVP- or CRF-41-stimulated ACTH release. Moreover, CRF-41 did not prevent the glucocorticoid-induced inhibition of AVP-stimulated ACTH release. In summary: 1) CRF-41 inactivates early glucocorticoid inhibition of CRF-41-stimulated ACTH secretion, and this is mimicked by a cell membrane permeant analog of cAMP; 2) AVP does not inactivate glucocorticoid-induced inhibition of stimulated ACTH release; 3) the data point to an acute interaction between the cAMP/protein kinase A and glucocorticoid-responsive intracellular pathways. Such differential modulation of feedback inhibition by CRFs may be of functional importance in vivo.

Atriopeptin: an endogenous corticotropin-release inhibiting hormone

Activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenocortical axis is a major component of the body's response to stress. Current theories on the pathophysiology of disorders associated with hyperfunction of the axis, such as depression and Cushing's stress, are based on the concept that anterior pituitary adrenocorticotropin (ACTH) secretion is stimulated by hypothalamic corticotropin-releasing hormones and inhibited by adrenal corticosteroids. Hypothalamic inhibitory control of pituitary ACTH secretion has been also postulated, but has not gained general acceptance because of the lack of definitive evidence for a corticotropin-release inhibiting hormone. It is shown here that in conscious rats stress-induced secretion of ACTH and corticosterone is markedly enhanced by the immunoneutralisation of atriopeptin. Therefore, we propose that atriopeptin is a physiologically relevant corticotropin-release inhibiting hormone.

Release of oxytocin into blood and into cerebrospinal fluid induced by naloxone in anaesthetized morphine-dependent rats: the role of the paraventricular nucleus

Abstract Opioid actions on oxytocin secretion into blood and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) were investigated in urethane-anaesthetized female rats after intracerebroventricular (icv) infusion of morphine sulphate or vehicle for 5 days. Serial femoral arterial blood samples and cisterna magna CSF samples were collected for radioimmunoassay. Naloxone was given to assess endogenous opioid tone in icv vehicle-infused rats and to precipitate withdrawal in morphine-dependent animals. Initial plasma oxytocin concentration was not affected by icv morphine infusion. In control rats receiving icv vehicle, naloxone increased plasma oxytocin 11-fold within 5 min, and in icv morphine-infused rats, naloxone increased plasma oxytocin 80-fold within 5 min. In both groups, 90 min after naloxone plasma oxytocin was still 5 and 10 times, respectively, the initial concentration. Without naloxone, neither plasma nor CSF oxytocin concentration changed significantly with time (up to 90 min) in either icv treatment group. In the icv vehicle group, there was a 2-fold increase in CSF oxytocin 90 min after naloxone. In the icv morphine-infused group, CSF oxytocin was increased 5-fold 40 min after naloxone. In another group of icv morphine-infused rats, intravenous infusion of oxytocin to achieve plasma levels similar to those seen after naloxone, did not significantly increase CSF oxytocin. In a further group of icv morphine-infused rats, [(3)H]oxytocin was infused intravenously immediately after naloxone was given; in these rats oxytocin transfer from blood to CSF could account at most for only 20% of the increase in CSF oxytocin after naloxone. A further group of rats underwent bilateral microknife ablation of the paraventricular nuclei (PVN) 9 days before icv vehicle or morphine infusions were started; blood and CSF samples were collected under urethane anaesthesia. Initial concentrations of oxytocin in CSF and in plasma were similar in both groups with PVN ablation. In all PVN-lesioned rats initial plasma concentrations of oxytocin were undetectable (<5 pg/ml) and thus less than in intact rats. In contrast, initial levels of oxytocin in CSF were 8-fold greater in PVN-lesioned rats than in intact animals. Naloxone increased plasma oxytocin concentration in the icv vehicle group at least 10-fold within 30 min and in the icv morphine group at least 100-fold within 5 min. CSF oxytocin in the icv vehicle group was not altered by naloxone, but in the icv morphine group CSF oxytocin was increased 5-fold 40 min after naloxone. There were no consistent differences between the icv vehicle- and icv morphine-treated groups in the initial plasma levels of vasopressin, growth hormone and adrenocorticotrophin; PVN ablation did not affect adrenocorticotrophin levels. After naloxone growth hormone levels did not change, vasopressin concentration rose moderately only after 90 min and only in the icv vehicle-treated group, and adrenocorticotrophin concentrations decreased with time whether or not naloxone was given. The results imply an endogenous opioid tone on neurons releasing oxytocin into CSF, and morphine-dependence of these neurons. Furthermore, in PVN-lesioned rats, magnocellular supraoptic neurons could be a source of oxytocin release into CSF.