Trace amines: identification of a family of mammalian G protein-coupled receptors

Tyramine, beta-phenylethylamine, tryptamine, and octopamine are biogenic amines present in trace levels in mammalian nervous systems. Although some "trace amines" have clearly defined roles as neurotransmitters in invertebrates, the extent to which they function as true neurotransmitters in vertebrates has remained speculative. Using a degenerate PCR approach, we have identified 15 G protein-coupled receptors (GPCR) from human and rodent tissues. Together with the orphan receptor PNR, these receptors form a subfamily of rhodopsin GPCRs distinct from, but related to the classical biogenic amine receptors. We have demonstrated that two of these receptors bind and/or are activated by trace amines. The cloning of mammalian GPCRs for trace amines supports a role for trace amines as neurotransmitters in vertebrates. Three of the four human receptors from this family are present in the amygdala, possibly linking trace amine receptors to affective disorders. The identification of this family of receptors should rekindle the investigation of the roles of trace amines in mammalian nervous systems and may potentially lead to the development of novel therapeutics for a variety of indications.

Identification and characterization of two G protein-coupled receptors for neuropeptide FF

The central nervous system octapeptide, neuropeptide FF (NPFF), is believed to play a role in pain modulation and opiate tolerance. Two G protein-coupled receptors, NPFF1 and NPFF2, were isolated from human and rat central nervous system tissues. NPFF specifically bound to NPFF1 (K(d) = 1.13 nm) and NPFF2 (K(d) = 0.37 nm), and both receptors were activated by NPFF in a variety of heterologous expression systems. The localization of mRNA and binding sites of these receptors in the dorsal horn of the spinal cord, the lateral hypothalamus, the spinal trigeminal nuclei, and the thalamic nuclei supports a role for NPFF in pain modulation. Among the receptors with the highest amino acid sequence homology to NPFF1 and NPFF2 are members of the orexin, NPY, and cholecystokinin families, which have been implicated in feeding. These similarities together with the finding that BIBP3226, an anorexigenic Y1 receptor ligand, also binds to NPFF1 suggest a potential role for NPFF1 in feeding. The identification of NPFF1 and NPFF2 will help delineate their roles in these and other physiological functions.

Identification and characterization of two neuromedin U receptors differentially expressed in peripheral tissues and the central nervous system

Two structurally related, G-protein-coupled receptors were identified as receptors for the neuropeptide, neuromedin U. This peptide is found in highest levels in the gut and genitourinary system where it potently contracts smooth muscle but is also expressed in the spinal cord and discrete regions of the brain. Binding sites for neuromedin U have been characterized in rat uterus, however, little is known about the activity of this peptide in the regions of the central nervous system where it is expressed. The receptors characterized in this report are activated by neuromedin U at nanomolar potency in heterologous expression systems and bind radiolabeled neuromedin U with high affinity. Localization of the receptor RNA by quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction in a variety of human tissues shows distinct expression patterns for the two receptors. NMU1 is expressed predominantly in peripheral tissues, whereas NMU2 is more highly expressed in the central nervous system. Identification of neuromedin U receptor subtypes will greatly aid in the determination of the physiological roles of this peptide.

N-Methyl-5-tert-butyltryptamine: A novel, highly potent 5-HT1D receptor agonist

It has been observed that reported 5-HT1D receptor agonists have at least one heteroatom (N, O, or S) on the 5-substituent of the indole. This has led to the hypothesis that a 5-substituent capable of participating in hydrogen bonding is critical for conveying high affinity. This article describes the synthesis and biological evaluation of a new series of 5-alkyltryptamine analogues, which does not have a heteroatom in the 5-substituent group. In contrast to the hypothesis, 5-alkyltryptamines all exhibit high binding affinities for the human 5-HT1D receptor. The size of the lipophilic alkyl group at the 5-position of the indole has significant impact on the 5-HT1D binding affinity. Compounds with a tert-butyl group at the 5-position such as 9d, 10, and 11 were identified. These analogues display high binding affinity (Ki < 1 nM) and moderate receptor selectivity in comparison with known antimigraine agents such as sumatriptan, naratriptan, rizatriptan, and VML-251.

Functional characterization of the recombinant human 5-hydroxytryptamine7(a) receptor isoform coupled to adenylate cyclase stimulation

Functional characterization of the recombinant human 5-hydroxytryptamine7(a) (h5-HT7(a)) receptor isoform was performed using stably transfected LM(tk-) cells. Expression levels of the h5-HT7(a) receptor determined from saturation studies using either a labeled agonist ([3H]5-HT) or antagonist ([3H]LSD) were very similar (Bmax = 160-190 fmol/mg protein), suggesting that all receptors may exist in the high affinity (G protein-coupled) state. In intact cells, 5-HT produced a concentration-dependent elevation of intracellular cAMP levels ([cAMP]i) with an EC50 value of 80 nM and a maximal response of 5-fold increase above basal levels. The rank order of agonist potencies in the second messenger assay paralleled their rank order of binding affinities: 5-carboxamidotryptamine > 5-hydroxytryptamine >/= 5-methoxytryptamine > 8-hydroxy N,N-dipropyl aminotetralin > sumatriptan. Agonist potencies (EC50 values) to stimulate [cAMP]i were more than 25-fold lower relative to their respective binding affinities (Ki values) obtained in [3H]5-HT competition assays. In contrast, antagonist potencies (Kb values) to block 5-HT-stimulated [cAMP]i were in close agreement with their corresponding Ki values. These data may indicate low efficiency of receptor-effector coupling to adenylate cyclase stimulation. Pretreatment of stably transfected cells with cholera toxin abolished the 5-HT-mediated elevation of [cAMP]i, indicating that the 5-HT7(a) subtype directly interacts with Galphas protein(s) to activate adenylate cyclase(s). Clonal cell lines stably expressing h5-HT7 receptor isoforms will serve as valuable cellular models to study their function and regulation, as well as assist in the development of selective 5-HT7 receptor agents to uncover the biological roles and potential therapeutic applications of this novel receptor subtype.

5-HT1F receptor agonists inhibit neurogenic dural inflammation in guinea pigs

The serotonin (5-HT) receptor subtype mediating inhibition of neurogenic dural inflammation in guinea pigs was investigated using a series of serotonin agonists with differing affinities for the 5-HT1B, 5-HT1D and 5-HT1F receptors. When agonist potencies for inhibiting neurogenic inflammation were compared with affinities for these receptor subtypes, a significant positive correlation was seen only with the 5-HT1F receptor. The potency of agonists in inhibiting adenylate cyclase in cells transfected with human 5-HT1F receptor was also highly correlated with their potency in the animal model of migraine. In situ hybridization demonstrated 5-HT1F receptor mRNA in guinea pig trigeminal ganglion neurons. These data suggest that the 5-HT1F receptor is a rational target for migraine therapeutics.

[3H]RS 57639, a high affinity, selective 5-HT4 receptor partial agonist, specifically labels guinea-pig striatal and rat cloned (5-HT4S and 5-HT4L) receptors

RS 57639, by being a partial agonist in rat esophagus but a competitive antagonist in guinea-pig ileum, is one of several ligands which operationally discriminate among 5-HT4 receptors in different tissues. The discovery of splice variants of the 5-HT4 receptor, 5-HT4S and 5-HT4L, raises the possibility that this functional heterogeneity among 5-HT4 receptors may be due to differences in the interaction of ligands with different isoforms of the receptor. To test this idea, the functional and binding interactions of RS 57639 with rat 5-HT4S and 5-HT4L receptors were characterized. RS 57639 stimulated adenylate cyclase in cells expressing 5-HT4S or 5-HT4L receptors with similar potency (pEC50 = 7.9 +/- 0.1 and 7.6 +/- 0.1) and efficacy (71 +/- 3 and 59 +/- 4% of 5-HT). [3H]RS 57639 also bound to 5-HT4S and 5-HT4L receptors with similar affinity (Kd = 0.09 +/- 0.01 and 0.11 +/- 0.01 nM) and specificity (SB204070 > GR113808 > SDZ 205557 > cisapride > renzapride > alpha me-5-HT > 5-CT). Therefore, the operational differences among 5-HT4 receptors, detected with RS 57639, are not explained by differences in the interaction of the ligand with 5-HT4S and 5-HT4L receptors. [3H]RS 57639 binding to guinea-pig striatal membranes was also characterized. [3H]RS 57639 bound with high affinity (Kd = 0.25 +/- 0.07 nM) and a specificity similar to that of the 5-HT4 receptor antagonist, [3H]GR113808. Therefore, while the mechanism by which RS 57639 operationally distinguishes among 5-HT4 receptors was not determined, [3H]RS 57639 was shown to specifically label native and cloned 5-HT4 receptors. As the first selective agonist radioligand to be described for this receptor, [3H]RS 57639 may prove useful in further studies of receptor coupling and ligand interactions.

Cloning and characterization of the guinea pig 5-HT1F receptor subtype: a comparison of the pharmacological profile to the human species homolog

The anti-migraine compound, sumatriptan, has been shown to have substantial affinity for the cloned human 5-HT1F receptor suggesting that, in addition to 5-HT1B/5-HT1D receptor subtypes, the 5-HT1F receptor may be a therapeutic target for the treatment of migraine. Several investigators have used the guinea pig plasma extravasation model to evaluate potential anti-migraine drugs. Since species differences in the pharmacology of serotonin receptors are well known, we compared the pharmacological profiles of the cloned human and guinea pig 5-HT1F receptors in order to validate the usefulness of the in vivo model in predicting anti-migraine activity of compounds targeted for humans. We have cloned the guinea pig 5-HT1F by homology to the human 5-HT1F receptor and evaluated its pharmacological profile using radioligand binding assays. The cloned guinea pig 5-HT1F gene exhibited 94% amino acid identity to the corresponding human homolog. High affinity (Kd approximately 10 nM) [3H]5-HT binding was detected to membranes obtained from Cos-7 cells transiently expressing the guinea pig 5-HT1F receptor. The cloned guinea pig receptor displayed typical 5-HT1F receptor pharmacology with the following rank order of binding affinities: 5-HT > sumatriptan > 1-NP = DHE > alpha-methyl 5-HT > metergoline > methiothepin > 5-CT. The pharmacological profiles of the cloned guinea pig and human 5-HT1F receptors were very similar as reflected by the high correlation (r2 = 0.72, slope = 0.76) observed between the binding affinities of compounds for these two species homologs. In situ hybridization studies in guinea pig tissue revealed 5-HT1F receptor mRNA expression in the neurons of the trigeminal ganglion, suggesting that the 5-HT1F receptor may play a role in the presynaptic inhibition of neuropeptide release at the level of the intracranial vasculature, thereby blocking the development of neurogenic inflammation. Dorsal root ganglion cells also moderately expressed the 5-HT1F transcripts. The localization of the 5-HT1F receptor to areas involved in the mediation and transfer of nociceptive information implies a role for this receptor in pain processing. These findings indicate that a selective 5-HT1F agonist may be a novel approach to treat migraine.

Modeling the G-protein-coupled neuropeptide Y Y1 receptor agonist and antagonist binding sites

Neuropeptide Y (NPY) receptors belong to the G-protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) superfamily and mediate several physiological responses, such as blood pressure, food intake, sedation and memory retention. To understand the interactions between the NPY Y1 receptor subtype and its ligands, computer modeling was applied to the natural peptide agonist, NPY and a small molecule antagonist, BIBP3226. An agonist and antagonist binding domain was elucidated using mutagenesis data for the Y1 receptor as well as for other GPCR families. The agonist and antagonist ligands which were investigated appear to share common residues for their interaction within the transmembrane regions of the Y1 receptor structure, including Gln120, Asn283 and His306. This is in contrast to findings with tachykinin receptors where the binding domains of the non-peptide antagonists have very little in common with the binding domains of the agonist, substance-P. In addition, a hydrogen bond between the hydroxyl group of Tyr36 of NPY and the side chain of Gln219, an interaction that is absent in the model complex between Y1 and the antagonist BIBP3226, is proposed as one of the potential interactions necessary for receptor activation.

Pharmacological characterizations of recombinant human 5-HT1D alpha and 5-HT1D beta receptor subtypes coupled to adenylate cyclase inhibition in clonal cell lines: apparent differences in drug intrinsic efficacies between human 5-HT1D subtypes

Recombinant human 5-HT1D alpha and 5-HT1D beta receptor subtypes were stably expressed in NIH-3T3 fibroblasts (1D alpha cell line) and Y-1 adrenocortical tumor cells (1D beta cell line), respectively, for pharmacological evaluations of serotonergic compounds to inhibit forskolin-stimulated cAMP accumulation (FSCA). [3H]LSD saturation studies indicated that 5-HT1D receptor expression levels were slightly higher in the 1D beta cell line (Bmax = 1334 +/- 134 fmol/mg protein) than in the 1D alpha cell line (Bmax = 900 +/- 218 fmol/mg protein). 5-HT inhibited FSCA with similar potencies (EC50 approximately 2 nM) in both assay systems. The rank order of agonist potencies in both clonal cell lines matched their pharmacological profiles previously determined in binding studies: dihydroergotamine > or = 5-carboxamidotryptamine (5-CT) > LSD > or = 5-HT > sumatriptan > 1-naphthylpiperazine (1-NP) > yohimbine > 8-hydroxy-2-(di-n-propylamino)tetralin (8-OH DPAT) > 1-(2,5-dimethoxy-4-iodophenyl)-2-aminopropane (DOI), with Ki/EC50 ratios greater than unity. Methiothepin acted as a silent antagonist at both human 5-HT1D alpha and 5-HT1D beta receptors with apparent dissociation constants (Kb values) of 12 +/- 1 nM and 3 +/- 1 nM, respectively. Whereas GR 127,935, metergoline, DOI, and quipazine acted as full agonists in the 1D alpha cell line, these compounds behaved as partial agonists in the 1D beta cell line. To determine whether high levels of receptor reserve might mask partial agonist activity in the two second messenger assay systems, studies were performed using the irreversible receptor alkylating agent N-ethoxycarbonyl-2-ethoxy-1,2-dihydroquinoline (EEDQ). The relationships between receptor occupancy and inhibition of FSCA were determined for 5-HT, sumatriptan, and 1-NP in both clonal cell lines after partial receptor inactivation using Furchgott analysis. Hyperbolic relationships between receptor occupancy and second messenger response were determined for 5-HT in both transfected cell lines. Steep hyperbolic relationships were also found for sumatriptan and 1-NP in the 1D beta cell line whereas nearly linear relationships were observed for these two compounds in the 1D alpha cell line. Moreover, KA/EC50 ratios of these compounds were significantly larger in the 1D beta (10-32) as compared to the 1D alpha (0.9-2.5) cell line. These data are consistent with the hypothesis that the two heterologous expression systems contain a differential amount of receptor reserve. Despite the presence of an apparently larger-receptor reserve in the 1D beta cell line, GR 127,935, metergoline, DOI, and quipazine behaved as partial agonists. Although the potencies (EC50 values) of compounds matched their respective affinity constants (Ki values) for the closely-related 5-HT1D subtypes, differences in intrinsic activities were observed for a few compounds between the two 5-HT1D receptor expression systems. Since receptor reserve is dependent on the properties of both the assay system and drug, the observed variations in intrinsic activity, although influenced by the variable amounts of receptor reserve in the two transfected cell lines, reflect primarily system-independent differences in the intrinsic efficacy of the tested compounds at the two human 5-HT1D receptors. Higher intrinsic efficacies of compounds at the human 5-HT1D alpha receptor relative to the human 5-HT1D beta subtype may be responsible for the higher intrinsic activities observed in the 1D alpha cell line, even though receptor reserve is apparently lower in this system.

[3H]5-hydroxytryptamine labels the agonist high affinity state of the cloned rat 5-HT4 receptor

We have used the cloned rat 5-HT4 receptor, and determined that the single protein product produced is able to bind both [3H]5-HT and [3H]GR113808 ([1-[(2-methyl sulphonyl) amino] ethyl-4-piperidinyl] methyl-1-methyl-1H-indole-3-carboxylate) with high affinity. The affinities of agonists for the [3H]5-HT (agonist)-labelled receptor were significantly higher than for the [3H]GR113808 (antagonist)-labelled receptor. Furthermore, [3H]5-HT binding was reduced by addition of guanyl nucleotides. These results strongly support the hypothesis that the 5-HT4 receptor displays two interconvertible affinity states (high and low) for agonists, characteristic of many G protein coupled receptors. [3H]5-HT, at the concentration employed, therefore labels the agonist high affinity state of the 5-HT4 receptor in systems in which high densities of this receptor are found.

The 5-HT4 receptor: molecular cloning and pharmacological characterization of two splice variants

Molecular cloning efforts have provided primary amino acid sequence and signal transduction data for a large collection of serotonin receptor subtypes. These include five 5-HT1-like receptors, three 5-HT2 receptors, one 5-HT3 receptor, two 5-HT5 receptors, one 5-HT6 receptor and one 5-HT7 receptor. Molecular biological information on the 5-HT4 receptor is notably absent from this list. We now report the cloning of the pharmacologically defined 5-HT4 receptor. Using degenerate oligonucleotide primers, we identified a rat brain PCR fragment which encoded a '5-HT receptor-like' amino acid sequence. The corresponding full length cDNA was isolated from a rat brain cDNA library. Transiently expressed in COS-7 cells, this receptor stimulates adenylyl cyclase activity and is sensitive to the benzamide derivative cisapride. The response is also blocked by ICS-205930. Interestingly, we isolated two splice variants of the receptor, 5-HT4L and 5-HT4S, differing in the length and sequence of their C-termini. In rat brain, the 5-HT4S transcripts are restricted to the striatum, but the 5-HT4L transcripts are expressed throughout the brain, except in the cerebellum where it was barely detectable. In peripheral tissues, differential expression was also observed in the atrium of the heart where only the 5-HT4S isoform was detectable.

A single point mutation increases the affinity of serotonin 5-HT1D alpha, 5-HT1D beta, 5-HT1E and 5-HT1F receptors for beta-adrenergic antagonists

The serotonin 5-HT1B and 5-HT1A receptors bind certain beta-adrenergic antagonists, such as propranolol and pindolol, with high affinity. Other 5-HT1 receptors that display very low affinity for beta-adrenergic antagonists, have either a threonine (T) (5-HT1D alpha, 5-HT1D beta and 5-HT1E) or an alanine (A) (5-HT1F) residue in the homologous position in the seventh transmembrane domain. In the case of the human 5-HT1D beta receptor, replacement of this T with asparagine (N), dramatically increases its ability to bind beta-adrenergic antagonists. To assess whether other 5-HT1 receptors would behave similarly, we have used site-directed mutagenesis to replace the T or A in 5-HT1D alpha, 5-HT1E and 5-HT1F receptors with N. Both the wild-type and mutant genes were expressed transiently in COS-7 cells and radioligand binding studies were performed by using [3H]5-HT and [125I]iodocyanopindolol. Using [3H]5-HT, we found that the affinities of all the mutant receptors for propranolol and pindolol were significantly increased by 100-1000 fold, 5-HT1D alpha and 5-HT1F receptors showing the highest and the 5-HT1E receptor displaying the lowest affinity. On the other hand, the affinities for 5-HT were essentially unchanged as compared to the wild-type receptors. All mutant receptors bound [125I]iodocyanopindolol with high affinity, KD values ranging between 0.04 nM (mutant 5-HT1D alpha) and 0.57 nM (mutant 5-HT1E), whereas the wild-type receptors failed to show any specific binding with this radioligand in the same concentration range used for the mutant receptors.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

The cloned human 5-HT1E receptor couples to inhibition and activation of adenylyl cyclase via two distinct pathways in transfected BS-C-1 cells

The pharmacological profile of coupling of the cloned human serotonin [5-hydroxytryptamine] (5-HT)1E receptors to second messengers was studied in African green monkey kidney cells (BS-C-1). At low concentrations (0.1-100 nM), 5-HT inhibited forskolin-stimulated cAMP accumulation (FSCA) by up to 90% whereas at higher concentrations it potentiated FSCA; potentiation was dependent on receptor density. Pretreatment of cells with pertussis toxin (PTx) or cholera toxin (CTx) eliminated agonist-induced inhibition and potentiation of FSCA, respectively. The potentiation of FSCA was not due to activation of phospholipase C and/or phospholipase A2 since 5-HT had no effect on inositol phosphate release, intracellular Ca2+ mobilization or arachidonic acid mobilization; neither was it affected by pretreatment with the nonselective phospholipase A2 inhibitor, quinacrine, or by the removal of extracellular Ca2+. The pharmacological profiles of the 5-HT1E receptor-mediated inhibition and potentiation of FSCA were very similar, although agonists displayed higher affinity for the former. These results indicate that the human 5-HT1E receptors can potentially couple, with similar pharmacological profiles, to multiple effector pathways. However, the potency and intrinsic activity of the compounds eliciting these responses can differ significantly, depending on the receptor density and the effector pathway studied.

Cell-specific coupling of the cloned human 5-HT1F receptor to multiple signal transduction pathways

We recently described the cloning of a fifth member of the 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT)1 (serotonin1) receptor class that inhibits adenylyl cyclase, namely the human 5-HT1F receptor (Adham et al. 1993a). In the present study we have examined in greater detail the functional coupling of the 5-HT1F receptor in two different cell lines, NIH-3T3 and LM(tk-) fibroblasts (receptor densities of 1.7 and 4.4 pmol/mg protein, respectively). The maximal inhibitory response elicited by 5-HT was significantly greater in NIH-3T3 as compared to LM(tk-) cells, whereas the EC50 values were comparable. To investigate the relationship between receptor occupancy and inhibition of cAMP accumulation mediated by 5-HT1F receptors in NIH-3T3 cells (and hence the degree of receptor reserve), we used the irreversible receptor antagonist N-ethoxycarbonyl-2-ethoxy-1,2-dihydroquinoline (EEDQ). The half-maximal response required only about 10% receptor occupancy, consistent with a receptor reserve of 90% (88 +/- 2.1%, n = 4) for 5-HT-induced inhibition of FSCA. Despite the presence of such a high degree of receptor reserve, a range of intrinsic activities was displayed by structurally diverse classes of compounds. For example, sumatriptan and lysergol were as efficacious as 5-HT itself and thus acted as full agonists, whereas metergoline and 1-NP behaved as partial agonists and as shown previously (Adham et al. 1993a), methiothepin was a silent antagonist (Kb = 438 nM). We have also investigated activation of additional signal transduction pathways by the 5-HT1F receptor and found that the responses differ in the two cell lines with respect to stimulation of phospholipase C. For example, in NIH-3T3 cells no elevation of inositol phosphates (IP) of [Ca2+]i was observed even at very high agonist concentrations (100 microM). In contrast, in LM(tk-) cells concentrations of 5-HT as low as 10 nM induced stimulation of IP and a rapid increase of [Ca2+]i. The 5-HT1F receptor failed to alter arachidonic acid release in either cell line. The maximal increase in IP accumulation in LM(tk-) cells was modest, averaging about 100% above basal. The increases of IP and [Ca2+]i required 5-HT concentrations less than one order of magnitude greater than those inhibiting FSCA (EC50 = 17, 55 and 8 nM, respectively), and both responses were blocked by 100 microM methiothepin. All three responses (cAMP, IP, and [Ca2+]i) were sensitive to pertussis toxin pre-treatment, suggesting the involvement of Gi/Go protein(s) in these signal transduction pathways.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)

Cloning of a novel human serotonin receptor (5-HT7) positively linked to adenylate cyclase

An intron-containing gene encoding a novel human serotonin (5-HT) receptor was isolated from human genomic and cDNA libraries with probes directed to transmembrane regions of the adenylate cyclase stimulatory Drosophila serotonin receptor gene, 5-HTdrol. Membranes harvested from transiently transfected Cos-7 cells displayed high affinity (Kd = 8.5 nM), saturable (Bmax = 6.6 pmol/mg protein) [3H]5-HT binding. The rank order of potencies for serotonergic ligands to displace specific [3H]5-HT binding was: 5-carboxamido-tryptamine > methiothepin > metergoline > 5-HT > 8-hydroxy-2-(di-n-propylamino)tetralin > sumatriptan > ketanserin > zacopride. 5-HT produced a dose-dependent (EC50 = 992 nM) stimulation (approximately 20-fold) of cAMP accumulation in transiently transfected cells, and this response was antagonized by the nonselective 5-HT antagonist methiothepin. RNA for this gene was predominantly detected in the human brain and a subset of peripheral tissues including coronary artery and several tissues of the gastrointestinal tract. The molecular biological and pharmacological properties of this receptor suggest that it is the first member of a new serotonin receptor subfamily (5-HT7). The second messenger coupling, and tissue distribution indicate a possible identity to 5-HT receptors that mediate relaxant responses in certain isolated blood vessels.

Receptor reserve masks partial agonist activity of drugs in a cloned rat 5-hydroxytryptamine1B receptor expression system

The present study was undertaken to evaluate the behavior of the rat 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT)1B receptor stably expressed in a Y-1 cell line, using both radioligand binding ([125I]iodocyanopindolol) and functional assays (inhibition of forskolin-stimulated cAMP release). The measured EC50 values for agonists were lower than expected from the measured Ki values (e.g., 5-HT, EC50 = 0.49 +/- 0.043, nine experiments; Ki = 5.3 +/- 0.82, four experiments). Furthermore, beta-adrenergic antagonists such as propranolol and pindolol, which have been reported to be partial agonists or antagonists at the 5-HT1B receptors in other systems, were found to be full agonists. To investigate the relationship between receptor occupancy and inhibition of cAMP release (and hence the degree of receptor reserve), we used the irreversible receptor antagonist N-ethoxycarbonyl-2-ethoxy-1,2-dihydroquinoline (EEDQ). EEDQ treatment shifted the dose-response curve for 5-HT to the right by 6-7-fold, accompanied by a reduction (30-50%) in maximal response. Analysis of the data by the method of Furchgott revealed a very steep hyperbolic relationship between receptor occupancy and response for 5-HT, with 92 +/- 1.4% (three experiments) receptor reserve at the 50% maximal response level. In contrast to its effect on 5-HT, EEDQ treatment did not significantly shift the dose-response curves for pindolol; rather, only the maximal responses were reduced and a linear relationship was found between receptor occupancy and response for this compound. According to classical receptor theory these data indicate that pindolol is a partial agonist, relative to 5-HT, but because of the high density of 5-HT1B receptors in this system the difference between the intrinsic activities of the two drugs is masked. Therefore, one has to be cautious when interpreting functional data in transfected systems that often display large receptor reserve.

Cloning of another human serotonin receptor (5-HT1F): a fifth 5-HT1 receptor subtype coupled to the inhibition of adenylate cyclase

An intronless gene encoding an additional human serotonin (5-HT) 5-HT1-like receptor subtype was isolated from a human genomic library with probes obtained from degenerate PCR primers used to amplify 5-HT-receptor-specific sequences. The highest degree of homology was found with the 5-HT1E subtype (70%) and the 5-HT1D alpha (63%) and 5-HT1D beta (60%) receptors. RNA for this gene was detected in the human brain but was not detected in kidney, liver, spleen, heart, pancreas, and testes. High-affinity (Kd = 9.2 nM) 3H-labeled 5-HT binding was detected. Competition studies revealed the following rank order of potencies for serotonergic ligands: 5-HT > sumatriptan >> 5-carboxyamidotryptamine > 8-hydroxy-2(di-1-propylamino)tetralin > spiperone. 5-HT produced a dose-dependent inhibition of forskolin-stimulated cAMP accumulation (EC50 = 7.9 nM) in transfected cells. These properties distinguish this receptor from any previously characterized and establish a fifth 5-HT1-like receptor subtype (5-HT1F) coupled to the inhibition of adenylate cyclase.

Site-directed mutagenesis of a single residue changes the binding properties of the serotonin 5-HT2 receptor from a human to a rat pharmacology

Mesulergine displays approximately 50-fold higher affinity for the rat 5-HT2 receptor than for the human receptor. Comparison of the deduced amino acid sequences of cDNA clones encoding the human and rat 5-HT2 receptors reveals only 3 amino acid differences in their transmembrane domains. Only one of these differences (Ser----Ala at position 242 of TM5) is near to regions implicated in ligand binding by G protein-coupled receptors. We investigated the effect of mutating Ser242 of the human 5-HT2 receptor to an Ala residue as is found in the rat clone. Both [3H]mesulergine binding and mesulergine competition of [3H]ketanserin binding showed high affinity for rat membranes and the mutant human clone but low affinity for the native human clone, in agreement with previous studies of human postmortem tissue. These studies suggest that a single naturally occurring amino acid change between the human and the rat 5-HT2 receptors makes a major contribution to their pharmacological differences.

Acute desensitization of muscarinic receptors in the isolated guinea-pig ileal longitudinal muscle

1. The effects of acute desensitization of muscarinic receptors mediating contractile responses of the guinea-pig ileal longitudinal muscle were studied in vitro, using similar conditions for both functional and radioligand binding studies. 2. The pA2 values for a number of muscarinic antagonists (pirenzepine, methoctramine, (+/-)para-fluoro-hexahydro-siladifenidol and 4-diphenylacetoxy-N-methyl piperidine-methiodide) indicated that the contractile response to carbachol was mediated through an M3 muscarinic receptor. In binding experiments the muscarinic receptor subtype population in ileal longitudinal muscle was found to be heterogeneous, consisting of approximately 77% M2 and 23% M3 receptors. 3. Pre-exposure of ileal longitudinal muscle to 10 microM carbachol for 30 min produced a reduction (28 +/- % of control maximum) in the maximum contractile response and a dextral shift in the concentration-effect curve to carbachol. Prior equilibration (60 min) with (+/-)p-F-HHSiD (1 microM), but not with methoctramine (1 microM) or pirenzepine (0.3 microM), prevented the desensitization. Desensitization under these conditions did not alter either the apparent affinity, the total number of binding sites or the relative, proportions of M2 and M3 muscarinic receptors, as determined in radioligand binding studies. Desensitization did not cause any meaningful change in either the apparent affinity of carbachol or the proportion of the high and low affinity binding sites. 4. It is concluded that desensitization of the contractile responses of the guinea-pig ileal longitudinal muscle is a result of M3 but not M2 muscarinic receptor desensitization. Acute desensitization, therefore, is not accompanied by meaningful changes in the total number of both M2 and M3 receptors or by alterations in the affinity of the receptor to ligands.

The rat 5-hydroxytryptamine1B receptor is the species homologue of the human 5-hydroxytryptamine1D beta receptor

The relationship between the serotonin 5-hydroxytryptamine1B (5-HT1B) and 5-HT1D receptors has been the topic of much investigation and speculation since their complementary species distribution was first appreciated. The cloning of genes encoding 5-HT1D receptors has provided tools to investigate this relationship directly. In this study, a rat gene has been cloned that encodes the rat 5-HT1B receptor. Evaluation of the structure of this gene shows that it is a member of the guanine nucleotide-binding protein-coupled receptor superfamily. Comparison of the amino acid sequence of the rat gene with the human 5-HT1D beta gene showed a 93% overall identity and a 96% identity in the transmembrane regions. Comparison of the two sequences revealed zero to two amino acid changes in each of these transmembrane regions, as well as a striking conservation in the connecting loops, indicative of the relationship expected for species homologues of the same gene. The rat gene was expressed transiently in COS-7 cells, and membranes derived from these cells were shown to bind [125I]iodocyanopindolol. The pharmacological profile of this binding site closely matched that of the native rat 5-HT1B receptor (r = 0.95) but not the 5-HT1D receptor (r = 0.07). The cloned rat 5-HT1B receptor was found to couple to the inhibition of adenylate cyclase activity, as expected for a 5-HT1B receptor. These data indicate that, although the 5-HT1B and 5-HT1D receptors are pharmacologically distinct, they are species variants of the same receptor gene, the 5-HT1D beta gene.

Molecular cloning and characterization of a high affinity dopamine receptor (D1 beta) and its pseudogene

We have cloned a novel human intronless gene encoding a G-protein-coupled receptor of the dopamine receptor family. Expression of this receptor in Cos-7 cells led to the high affinity binding of a number of dopamine D1 antagonists, with a binding profile similar to that of the previously described dopamine D1 receptor. In contrast, the agonist binding profile of this new receptor did not exactly match any previously defined dopamine D1 receptor and was notable for its unusually high affinity for dopamine. This new receptor caused a 13-fold increase in adenylylcyclase activity in transfected Cos-7 cells, following addition of dopamine. Messenger RNA encoding this new receptor appears to be widely distributed in the human brain, including cortical regions, choroid plexus, hippocampus, and brain stem. This new receptor appears to be identical to the recently described dopamine D5 receptor. A second closely related gene, GL39, was isolated and shown to represent a pseudogene, the first to be described in the G-protein-coupled receptor superfamily. This pseudogene exhibits 94% nucleotide sequence homology to the GL30 sequence and may have arisen from a gene duplication event followed by a mutation approximately 8 million years ago, prior to the emergence of man. This recently evolved pseudogene is transcribed in the human brain with a tissue distribution similar to that for its closely related functional gene.

[3H]-DOB(4-bromo-2,5-dimethoxyphenylisopropylamine) and [3H] ketanserin label two affinity states of the cloned human 5-hydroxytryptamine2 receptor

The binding properties of the 5-hydroxytryptamine2 (5-HT2) receptor have been the subject of much interest and debate in recent years. The hallucinogenic amphetamine derivative 4-bromo-2,5-dimethoxyphenylisopropylamine (DOB) has been shown to bind to a small number of binding sites with properties very similar to [3H]ketanserin-labeled 5-HT2 receptors, but with much higher agonist affinities. Some researchers have interpreted this as evidence for the existence of a new subtype of 5-HT2 receptor (termed 5-HT2A), whereas others have interpreted these data as indicative of agonist high affinity and agonist low affinity states for the 5-HT2 receptor. In this investigation, a cDNA clone encoding the serotonin 5-HT2 receptor was transiently transfected into monkey kidney Cos-7 cells and stably transfected into mouse fibroblast L-M(TK-) cells. In both systems, expression of this single serotonin receptor cDNA led to the appearance of both [3H]DOB and [3H]ketanserin binding sites with properties that matched their binding characteristics in mammalian brain homogenates. Addition of guanosine 5'-(beta, gamma-imido) triphosphate [Gpp(NH)p] to this system caused a rightward shift and steepening of agonist competition curves for [3H] ketanserin binding, converting a two-site binding curve to a single low affinity binding state. Gpp(NH)p addition also caused a 50% decrease in the number of high affinity [3H]DOB binding sites, with no change in the dissociation constant of the remaining high affinity states. These data on a single human 5-HT2 receptor cDNA expressed in two different transfection host cells indicate that [3H]DOB and [3H]ketanserin binding reside on the same gene product, apparently interacting with agonist and antagonist conformations of a single human 5-HT2 receptor protein. These observations are consistent with the classical view of interconvertible agonist affinity states of GTP-binding protein-coupled receptors and strongly support the "two state" over the "two receptor" model for DOB binding to the 5-HT2 receptor.

Cloning, expression, and pharmacological characterization of a human alpha 2B-adrenergic receptor

An alpha 2-adrenergic receptor subtype has been isolated from a human genomic spleen library using the human 5-hydroxytryptamine1A receptor gene (also known as G-21) as a probe. This adrenergic receptor gene encodes a protein of 450 amino acids and does not contain any consensus sequences for N-linked glycosylation in its amino terminus or extracellular loops. This receptor is also distinguished by the presence of 12 consecutive glutamic acid residues in the region of its third intracellular loop. The deduced amino acid sequence shows greatest homology to previously cloned human alpha 2-adrenergic receptors and has structural similarities to other guanine nucleotide-binding protein-coupled receptors. The DNA encoding the human alpha 2 receptor was stably transfected into mouse fibroblast Ltk- cells and radioligand binding studies were performed using the alpha 2 antagonist [3H]rauwolscine. [3H]Rauwolscine bound with high affinity (Kd = 0.33 nM) and in a saturable manner (Bmax = 1.4 pmol/mg of protein). Pharmacological characterization of this receptor indicated a rank order of potency of yohimbine greater than prazosin greater than oxymetazoline. Additionally, 100 microM 5'-guanylylimidodiphosphate, produced a rightward shift in the epinephrine competition curve, with resultant increases in both the Ki value and Hill coefficient, suggestive of a functional interaction of the cloned receptor with native guanine nucleotide-binding protein(s) of Ltk- membranes. The data presented here are consistent with previous biochemical and pharmacological studies on alpha 2 receptors and are supportive of the designation of this receptor as an alpha 2B subtype.

The molecular biology of serotonin receptors. An overview

Recently, the family of G protein-coupled serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine[5-HT]) receptors has begun to yield to molecular analysis. The cloning of the 5-HT1C and 5-HT2 receptors has provided a structural basis for the similarities observed in their pharmacologic properties. Furthermore, pharmacologic characterization of the transfected human 5-HT2 receptor has answered two outstanding questions regarding this receptor. First, the few amino acid differences that exist between the human and the rat genes are sufficient to account for the species differences seen in their pharmacologic properties. Second, the single protein encoded by the human 5-HT2 receptor gene is capable of binding both [3H]DOB and [3H]ketanserin. Analysis of the effects of guanine nucleotides provides further evidence that this single protein binds both ligands, that this receptor has high- and low-affinity states, and that these states are partially interconvertible. Furthermore, the close relationship between the adrenergic receptors and the 5-HT1A receptor has been reaffirmed by the recent cloning of a new adrenergic receptor subtype, alpha 2B, by use of the 5-HT1A receptor sequence. Finally, the detailed level of structural information now available on serotonin receptors has yielded valuable information about the ligand binding site and about the possible functional significance of differing rates of evolutionary change in various parts of the gene.

Antagonist characterization of atypical beta adrenoceptors in guinea pig ileum: blockade by alprenolol and dihydroalprenolol

The present study was undertaken to further characterize the atypical beta adrenoceptor in guinea pig ileum. Tension was developed in isolated segments of ileum using transmural electrical stimulation of enteric cholingeric nerves. The ability of isoproterenol to relax the ileum, via beta-1 adrenoceptor and atypical beta adrenoceptor agonism, was measured. Propranolol (5 x 10(-6) M) and bromoacetylaprenololmetane blocked beta-1 adrenoceptors but, at the concentrations tested, were without affinity at atypical beta adrenoceptors. (-)-Alprenolol and (-)-dihydroalprenolol, however, acted as competitive antagonists at both sites (pA2 values of 8.2 and 8.81 at beta-1 adrenoceptors and 6.47 and 6.43 at atypical beta adrenoceptors, respectively). (-)-Alprenolol also exerted agonistic activity at the atypical beta adrenoceptor. [3H](-)-Dihydroproalprenolol failed to identify beta-1 adrenoceptors or atypical beta adrenoceptors but, instead, bound to a putative lipophilic site unrelated to ileal adrenoceptors. Before this study, nadolol (pA2 = 4.7) was the only documented antagonist at the atypical beta adrenoceptor in guinea pig ileum. Thus, the present results detail two additional pharmacological probes which exhibit about a 100-fold greater affinity than nadolol for the atypical site.

Exposure of receptor sites on rat muscle membranes by a neurally released factor

Isolated phrenic nerve-diaphragm preparations of the rat were stimulated electrically via the nerve. The medium bathing the preparation contained a factor which increased the specific binding (Bmax) of [125I]alpha-bungarotoxin to isolated sarcolemmal membranes. Medium from control preparations, left unstimulated, had no significant effect on the binding. The nerve stumps in the stimulated preparations were relatively depleted of the factor which increased the binding. The possibility that latent acetylcholine receptors are exposed by a factor released from the nerve during impulse activity is suggested.

Effect of parasympathetic denervation on K+ release by rat parotid slices

1. By measuring the release of 86Rb, potassium movement was compared in parasympathectomized (Px) and contralateral control parotid gland slices three weeks following surgical denervation. 2. Carbachol and phenylephrine elicited a biphasic increase in 86Rb release that was dose related and could be blocked by atropine and phentolamine respectively. The transient phase was of 2-4 min duration and Ca independent whereas the sustained phase of 86Rb release was greatly reduced by the omission of the external Ca. 3. Denervation caused a shift to the left of the 86Rb efflux dose-response curve to carbachol and phenylephrine (3.75- and 3.37-fold respectively). Pilocarpine had similar action to carbachol but it behaved as a partial agonist. 4. Parasympathectomy (Px) increased the intrinsic activity of the partial agonist pilocarpine and converted it to a full agonist. Results of the present study indicate the possibility of an altered receptor-signal transduction mechanism between the receptor and phospholipid turnover/Ca mobilization in the denervated rat parotid gland.

Effect of phospholipase C on the binding of alpha-bungarotoxin to isolated plasma membranes of rat skeletal muscle

Sarcolemmal membranes were isolated from hindlimb muscles of the rat and the specific binding of [125I]alpha-bungarotoxin to the membranes was determined. Incubation of the membranes with a purified preparation of phospholipase C (ex Clostridium perfringens) increased the specific binding of the toxin (Bmax). The apparent dissociation constant (Kd) for the binding was unchanged by treatment with the enzyme. The possibility that latent acetylcholine receptors exist in muscle sarcolemma, and that these receptors can be activated by the enzyme, is discussed.

Beneficial effect of pancreatic polypeptide in experimental pancreatitis

Two animal models have been employed to examine the role of pancreatic polypeptide, a potent and selective inhibitor of pancreatic exocrine secretion, in the treatment of acute pancreatitis. In one model pancreatitis was induced by feeding young female Swiss Webster mice an ethionine-supplemented, choline-deficient diet for 48 hr. Animals (N = 30 per group) were injected subcutaneously every 8 hr for 7 days with pancreatic polypeptide (0, 2, 20, and 200 micrograms/kg/day). Treatment with 20 and 200 micrograms/kg/day pancreatic polypeptide significantly (P less than 0.05) reduced mortality from a control rate of 70% to 42% and 33%, respectively. Treated animals also exhibited significant (P less than 0.05) decreases in pancreatic content of activated chymotrypsin and an improvement in pancreatic histology. Pancreatic polypeptide was effective whether treatment was started before or at the same time the test diet was introduced. In contrast, pancreatic polypeptide failed to protect dogs with acute pancreatitis induced by retrograde injection of the pancreas with bile, which may reflect the rapid and mechanical nature of pancreatic damage in this animal model.

Effects of prostaglandin and indomethacin on diet-induced acute pancreatitis in mice

This study was performed to determine the effects of exogenous prostaglandin and a prostaglandin synthetase inhibitor on experimental pancreatitis in mice. An ethionine-supplemented choline-deficient diet was used to induce pancreatitis in 4-6-wk-old Swiss Webster mice. Mice were injected subcutaneously with 16,16-dimethyl prostaglandin E2 (0.1, 1.0, 10 micrograms X kg-1 X day-1), indomethacin (0.05, 0.5, 5 mg X kg-1 X day-1), or saline for 7 days. The ethionine-supplemented choline-deficient diet was introduced 24 h after the first injection, and animals ate the test diet for 48 h. A 55% mortality was observed in control animals (n = 100) treated with carrier alone. Treatment with 10 micrograms X kg-1 X day-1 of 16,16-dimethyl prostaglandin E2 significantly decreased (p less than 0.01) mortality to 12% (n = 100). Improved survival was accompanied by a significant (p less than 0.05) decrease in the pancreatic content of free chymotrypsin and a decrease in histologic damage. Treatment with 5 mg X kg-1 X day-1 of indomethacin (n = 30) significantly (p less than 0.01) increased mortality in diet-treated rats from a control rate of 55% to 100%. These studies demonstrate a protective effect of prostaglandin on the pancreas and suggest a role for endogenous prostaglandins in the pathophysiology of pancreatitis.