A Novel Gaba Receptor on Central Neurones

The features of γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) as an inhibitory neurotransmitter are described, together with those of its receptor as defined by both iontophoretic and radiolabelled ligand binding techniques. Evidence is presented supporting the existence of a second GABA receptor at both peripheral nerve endings and within the CNS. At the classical receptor, GABA can produce a depolarisation of the ganglion cell body or mediate hyperpolarisation within the CNS by increasing membrane conductance to chloride ions. At this second receptor GABA acts in a bicuculline-insensitive manner to reduce neurotransmitter outflow.

Many GABA analogues active at the classical receptor are inactive at the second receptor but by contrast baclofen which is inactive at the classical receptor is a potent agonist at the novel site.

GABA and glycine as neurotransmitters: a brief history

gamma-Aminobutyric acid (GABA) emerged as a potentially important brain chemical just over 50 years ago, but its significance as a neurotransmitter was not fully realized until over 16 years later. We now know that at least 40% of inhibitory synaptic processing in the mammalian brain uses GABA. Establishing its role as a transmitter was a lengthy process and it seems hard to believe with our current knowledge that there was ever any dispute about its role in the mammalian brain. The detailed information that we now have about the receptors for GABA together with the wealth of agents which facilitate or reduce GABA receptor mechanisms make the prospects for further research very exciting. The emergence of glycine as a transmitter seems relatively painless by comparison to GABA. Perhaps this is appropriate for the simplest of transmitter structures! Its discovery within the spinal cord and brainstem approximately 40 years ago was followed only 2 years later by the proposal that it be conferred with 'neurotransmitter' status. It was another 16 years before the receptor was biochemically isolated. Now it is readily accepted as a vital spinal and supraspinal inhibitory transmitter and we know many details regarding its molecular structure and trafficking around neurones. The pharmacology of these receptors has lagged behind that of GABA. There is not the rich variety of allosteric modulators that we have come to readily associate with GABA receptors and which has provided us with a virtual treasure trove of important drugs used in anxiety, insomnia, epilepsy, anaesthesia, and spasticity, all stemming from the actions of the simple neutral amino acid GABA. Nevertheless, the realization that glycine receptors are involved in motor reflexes and nociceptive pathways together with the more recent advent of drugs that exhibit some subtype selectivity make the goal of designing selective therapeutic ligands for the glycine receptor that much closer.

Activation by p-chloroamphetamine of the spinal ejaculatory pattern generator in anaesthetized male rats

In urethane-anesthetized male rats, a branch of the hypogastric nerve was shown, anatomically and electrophysiologically, to supply the vas deferens. Recordings from this nerve revealed a low level of tonic activity, which was predominantly efferent motor activity. Administration of p-chloroamphetamine i.v., elicited a rhythmic burst of neuronal activity, coherent with rhythmic pressure increases in the vas deferens and contractions of the bulbospongiosus muscles, which together comprise ejaculation. This response to p-chloroamphetamine was still present after complete transection of the spinal cord at T8-T9. These data indicate that p-chloroamphetamine is capable of activating the spinal neuronal circuits that generate the pattern of autonomic and somatic responses similar to those of sexual climax. Furthermore based on the best documented action of p-chloroamphetamine, the results suggest that the excitability of the pattern generator is regulated by serotonergic, dopaminergic or noradrenergic receptors in the lumbosacral spinal cord. We conclude this animal model will enable robust studies of the pharmacology and physiology of central neural mechanisms involved in ejaculation and sexual climax.

Interaction of γ-aminobutyric acid receptor type B receptors and calcium channels in nociceptive transmission studied in the mouse hemisected spinal cord in vitro: withdrawal symptoms related to baclofen treatment

An in vitro mouse hemisected spinal cord was used to characterize the gamma-aminobutyric acid receptor type B (GABA(B)) modulation of the ventral root potential (VRP) in response to electrical stimulation of the dorsal root (DR). Low-intensity (LI) and high-intensity (HI) stimulation induced VRPs with progressively higher amplitude and duration. Repetitive HI-stimulation of the DR (1-10 Hz) produced windup. The selective GABA(B) receptor agonist, CGP35024, inhibited the VRPs in a dose-dependent manner. The inhibitory action of CGP35024 was blocked by CGP52432, a potent GABA(B) receptor antagonist. Following washout of the GABA(B) receptor agonist, VRPs and windup were significantly enhanced. The rebound increase of the VRP following removal of CGP35024 was also blocked by the GABA(B) receptor antagonist, CGP52432. This phenomenon is not linked to receptor desensitization, but rather due to GABA(B) receptor-induced hyperactivity of N-, P/Q-type Ca(2+) channels, as omega-CgTx GVIA and MVIIC abolished/prevented the increase. The 'rebound' enhancement of the spinal transmission after exposure to GABA(B) agonists sheds light on the possible mechanism of the severe withdrawal effects after abrupt termination of baclofen treatment in patients suffering from multiple sclerosis.

Positive N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor modulation by selective glycine transporter-1 inhibition in the rat dorsal spinal cord in vivo

In this study we have employed the selective glycine transporter-1 (GlyT-1) and GlyT-2 transporter inhibitors R-(-)-N-methyl-N-[3-[(4-trifluoromethyl)phenoxy]-3-phenyl-propyl]glycine (1:1) lithium salt (Org 24598) and 4-benzyloxy-3,5-dimethoxy-N-[1-(dimethylaminocyclopently)methyl]benzamide (Org 25543), respectively, and microdialysis perfusion to determine the effect of GlyT transporter inhibition on extracellular amino acid concentrations in the lumbar dorsal spinal cord of the halothane-anaesthetised rat. Reverse dialysis of Org 24598 (0.1-10 microM) induced a concentration-related increase in extracellular glycine accompanied by a progressive increase in citrulline, but not aspartate, glutamate or GABA, efflux. Org 25543 (10 microM) by the same route induced a similar increase in glycine levels without affecting the efflux of other amino acids quantified. To test the hypothesis that the increase in citrulline efflux resulted from activation of the N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDA-R)/nitric oxide synthase (NOS) signalling cascade, the sensitivity was determined of GlyT-1 inhibition-induced effects to NMDA-R antagonism or NOS inhibition. Co-administration by reverse dialysis of the selective NMDA-R channel blocker MK-801 (0.5 mM) or the selective antagonist of the strychnine-insensitive glycine site, 7-chlorokynurenic acid (1 mM), with Org 24598 (10 microM) did not affect the uptake inhibition-induced increase in glycine efflux, but did significantly attenuate the increase in extracellular citrulline. Similarly, co-administration with Org 24598 of the isoform non-selective and selective neuronal NOS inhibitors Nomega-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (1 mM) or 1-(2-trifluoromethylphenyl)imidazole (0.2 mM), respectively, prevented Org 24598-induced citrulline efflux with no effect on increased glycine efflux. These data provide evidence that the observed increased in extracellular citrulline is a consequence of positive modulation of NMDA-R, secondary to increased extracellular glycine and support a protective role for GlyT-1 against fluctuations in extracellular glycine uptake at glutamatergic synapses in the dorsal spinal cord. Such a mechanism could be important to NMDA-R-mediated synaptic plasticity in the spinal cord and be of relevance to the clinical usage of GlyT-1 inhibitors.

Cortical-area specific block of genetically determined absence seizures by ethosuximide

Absence epilepsy is characterised by a paroxysmal loss of consciousness, of abrupt onset and termination, and is associated with a bilateral synchronous spike and wave discharge (SWD) on the electroencephalogram. Absence seizures involve an interplay between thalamic and cortical structures, although most research has so far focussed on sensory thalamic nuclei and the reticular thalamic nucleus (RTN). Thus, microinfusion of ethosuximide (ETX), a first choice anti-absence drug, into either the ventrobasal thalamus or RTN of the genetic absence epilepsy rat from Strasbourg (GAERS), a validated rat model of absence epilepsy, does not produce immediate cessation of seizure activity, as is seen following systemic administration. As recent evidence indicates a seizure initiation site within the peri-oral region of the primary somatosensory cortex (S1po), we have now applied ETX into S1po as well as the somatosensory cortex forelimb region (S1FL) and the motor cortex (M1) of freely moving GAERS. Microinfusion of 10 or 20 nmol/side of ETX into S1po produced an immediate cessation of seizure activity. A less marked response was produced when even a higher dose (200 nmol/side) was infused into S1FL. No reduction of SWD was seen when ETX was infused into M1. Microinfusion of CGP 36742 (5 nmol/side), a GABA(B) antagonist, produced immediate cessation of seizure activity in both S1po and M1 and a delayed effect in S1FL. These data suggest that the ability of ETX to abolish genetically determined absence seizures is cortical-area specific and support the involvement of S1po in the initiation of SWDs.

GABA(B1a), GABA(B1b) AND GABA(B2) mRNA variants expression in hippocampus resected from patients with temporal lobe epilepsy

The aim of this study was to investigate the mRNA expression of the two GABA(B1) receptor isoforms and the GABA(B2) subunit, in human postmortem control hippocampal sections and in sections resected from epilepsy patients using quantitative in situ hybridisation autoradiography. Utilising human control hippocampal sections it was shown that the oligonucleotides employed were specific to the receptor. Hippocampal slices from surgical specimens obtained from patients with hippocampal sclerosis and temporal lobe epilepsy were compared with neurologically normal postmortem control subjects for neuropathology and GABA(B) mRNA expression. Neuronal loss was observed in most of the hippocampal subregions, but in the subiculum no significant difference was detected. The localisation of GABA(B1a) and GABA(B1b) isoform mRNAs in human control hippocampal sections supported and extended earlier studies using the GABA(B1) pan probe, which does not distinguish between the two GABA(B1) isoforms. Moreover, the GABA(B2) mRNA location confirmed the heterodimerisation of the receptor. Thus, although there was an apparent correlation between GABA(B1b) and GABA(B2), GABA(B1a) exhibited no such relationship. GABA(B1b) and GABA(B2) showed a similar intensity of expression whilst GABA(B1a) displayed a lower hybridisation signal. Comparison of the expression of the three mRNAs between control and epileptic subjects showed significant decreases or increases in different hippocampal subregions.GABA(B) isoforms and subunit mRNA expression per remaining neuron was significantly increased in the hilus and dentate gyrus. These results demonstrate that altered GABA(B) receptor mRNA expression occurs in human TLE; possibly the observed changes may also serve to counteract ongoing hyperexcitability.

Studies of GABA(B) receptors labelled with [(3)H]-CGP62349 in hippocampus resected from patients with temporal lobe epilepsy

1 The aim of this study was to investigate the binding of a novel GABA(B) receptor radioligand, [(3)H]-CGP62349, to human post-mortem control and epileptic hippocampal sections using quantitative receptor autoradiography. Utilizing human control hippocampal sections it was shown that [(3)H]-CGP62349 bound with high affinity (K(D) 0.5 nM) to this tissue. 2 Hippocampal slices from surgical specimens obtained from patients with hippocampal sclerosis (HS) and temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) were compared with neurologically normal post-mortem control subjects for neuropathology and GABA(B) receptor density and affinity. Neuronal loss was observed in most of the hippocampal subregions, but in the subiculum no significant difference was detected. 3 The localization of GABA(B) receptors with the antagonist [(3)H]-CGP62349 in human control hippocampal sections supported and extended earlier studies using the agonist ligand [(3)H]-GABA. 4 The kinetics of binding to the GABA(B) receptor in human hippocampus using this novel compound was comparable to previous data obtained in rat hippocampal membranes. 5 GABA(B) receptor density (B(max)) was significantly reduced in CA3, hilus, and dentate gyrus (DG); the affinity was increased exclusively in DG. The trend is identical in all the hippocampal subregions with the agonist and the antagonist, although significant differences with the antagonist where recorded in CA3 and hilus, whereas with the agonist a significant reduction was reported in all of the hippocampal subfields. 6 GABA(B) receptor expression per remaining neuron appeared significantly increased in CA3 and hilus. These results suggest altered GABA(B) receptor function may occur in human TLE, possibly as a result of synaptic reorganization, and may contribute to epileptogenesis.

International Union of Pharmacology. XXXIII. Mammalian gamma-aminobutyric acid(B) receptors: structure and function

The gamma-aminobutyric acid(B) (GABA(B)) receptor was first demonstrated on presynaptic terminals where it serves as an autoreceptor and also as a heteroreceptor to influence transmitter release by suppressing neuronal Ca(2+) conductance. Subsequent studies showed the presence of the receptor on postsynaptic neurones where activation produces an increase in membrane K(+) conductance and associated neuronal hyperpolarization. (-)-Baclofen is a highly selective agonist for GABA(B) receptors, whereas the established GABA(A) receptor antagonists, bicuculline and picrotoxin, do not block GABA(B) receptors. The receptor is G(i)/G(o) protein-coupled with mixed effects on adenylate cyclase activity. The receptor comprises a heterodimer with similar subunits currently designated 1 and 2. These subunits are coupled via coiled-coil domains at their C termini. The evidence for splice variants is critically reviewed. Thus far, no unique pharmacological or functional properties have been assigned to either subunit or the variants. The emergence of high-affinity antagonists for GABA(B) receptors has enabled a synaptic role to be established. However, the antagonists have generally failed to establish the existence of pharmacologically distinct receptor types within the GABA(B) receptor class. The advent of GABA(B1) knockout mice has also failed to provide support for multiple receptor types.

Interaction of group I mGlu and NMDA receptor agonists within the dorsal horn of the spinal cord of the juvenile rat

1. The modulatory effects of mGlu receptors on NMDA-induced potential changes in spinal motoneurones were studied in vitro. 2. Selective activation of mGlu5 receptors by 10 microM (RS)-2-Chloro-5-hydroxyphenylglycine (CHPG; EC(50)=280 +/- 24 microM) did not produce any change in the ventral root potential. However, the same concentration of CHPG (10 min perfusion) significantly attenuated the NMDA-induced ventral root depolarization (VRD). The effect persisted for 10 min after washout. NMDA-induced responses returned to control in 30 min. Brief co-application of CHPG and NMDA did not alter the NMDA-induced response indicating lack of direct receptor interaction. 3. The attenuating effect of CHPG on the NMDA-induced VRD was inhibited by the mGluR5 receptor antagonist, 2-methyl-6-phenyl-ethynylpyridine (MPEP). 4. In the presence of CGP56433A, a GABA(B) receptor antagonist, the NMDA-induced VRD was unchanged. However, NMDA-induced responses were potentiated after 10 min co-application of CHPG and CGP56433A. 5. (2R,4R)-4-aminopyrrolidine-2,4-dicarboxylate ((2R,4R)-APDC), a group II mGlu receptor agonist did not attenuate the NMDA-induced response. 6. Under normal physiological conditions group I mGlu receptor agonists activate at least two populations of neurones: (1) GABA-ergic cells, which could release GABA and inhibit dorsal horn neurones, and (2) deep dorsal horn neurones/motoneurones which express NMDA receptors. Therefore, activation of mGlu5 receptors located on GABA-ergic interneurones could influence any direct potentiating interaction between mGlu5 and NMDA receptors in spinal cord and result in depression of the VRD. In the presence of a GABA(B) receptor antagonist, the direct synergistic interaction is unmasked. These data suggest that group I mGlu receptors provide a complex modulation of spinal synaptic processes.

Determination of the extracellular concentration of glycine in the rat spinal cord dorsal horn by quantitative microdialysis

Two quantitative microdialysis methods were used to determine the extracellular concentration of glycine in the dorsal spinal cord of halothane-anaesthetised rats. Extracellular glycine determined by zero net flux was 2.6+/-0.3 microM and by the zero flow method was 3.3+/-0.3 microM. For comparison the glycine content of cerebrospinal fluid was determined to be 6.4+/-1.1 microM. There was no correlation between the extracellular and the cerebrospinal fluid concentrations.

Effects of high-affinity GABAB receptor antagonists on active and passive avoidance responding in rodents with gamma-hydroxybutyrolactone-induced absence syndrome

RATIONALE

Absence seizures in man are behaviourally manifested as arrest and mild jerks mainly of facial muscles, associated in the electroencephalogram with synchronous spike and wave discharges. Gamma-hydroxybutyrolactone (GHBL) administration is currently used as an experimental model of absence seizures in rats and mice.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the present study was to examine the effects of three potent gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)B receptor antagonists CGP55845A, CGP62349 and CGP71982 (0.01 mg/kg) on the development of GHBL-induced absence epilepsy and in learning paradigms of active and passive avoidance tests in GHBL-treated mice and rats.

METHODS

After 4 weeks of development of the absence syndrome, active and passive avoidance tests with negative reinforcement were performed. In both animal species, the absence syndrome was observed after 3 weeks of treatment in the saline group.

RESULTS

The GABAB receptor antagonists CGP55845A and CGP62349 appeared to suppress the development of the absence syndrome to a greater degree in mice than in rats. CGP71982 suppressed it later than the other two antagonists (fifth week). In an active avoidance test in GHBL-treated mice, the GABAB antagonists had different effects - CGP62349 improved learning and memory retention to a greater extent than CGP55845A, whilst CGP71982 had no influence on it. In a passive avoidance test in GHBL-treated mice, the GABAB antagonists also had different effects - CGP71982 improved both learning and memory retrieval, whereas CGP55845A and CGP62349 had no effect. In the active avoidance test in GHBL-treated rats, the GABAB antagonist CGP55845A improved learning, whereas the other two, CGP62349 and CGP71982, had no effect. In the passive avoidance test the GHBL-treated rats showed an improvement in short memory retrieval. CGP55845A and CGP71982 improved this further, whilst CGP62349 had no effect.

CONCLUSIONS

GHBL appeared to influence mice and rats in a different manner - rats learned the active avoidance task better than the GHBL-treated mice. The present study confirms previous data that GABAB antagonists suppress absence behaviour.

Allosteric modulation of [3H]-CGP39653 binding through the glycine site of the NMDA receptor: further studies in rat and human brain

Binding of D,L-(E)-2-amino-4-[(3)H]-propyl-5-phosphono-3-pentenoic acid ([(3)H]-CGP39653), a selective antagonist at the glutamate site of the NMDA receptor, is modulated by glycine in rat brain tissue. We have further investigated this phenomenon in rodent and human brain by means of receptor binding and quantitative autoradiography techniques. In rat cerebral cortical membranes the glycine antagonist 3-[2-(Phenylaminocarbonyl)ethenyl]-4,6-dichloro-indole-2-carboxylic acid sodium salt (GV150526A) did not change basal [(3)H]-CGP39653 binding, but competitively reversed the high affinity component of [(3)H]-CGP39653 binding inhibition by glycine, with a pK(B) value of 8.38, in line with its affinity for the glycine site (pK(i)=8.49 vs. [(3)H]-glycine). Glycine (10 microM) significantly decreased [(3)H]-CGP39653 affinity for the NMDA receptor (with no change in the B(max)), whereas enhanced L-glutamate affinity (P<0.05, paired-samples Student's t-test). In rat brain sections the addition of GV150526A (30 microM) to the incubation medium increased [(3)H]-CGP39653 binding to 208% of control (average between areas), indicating the presence of endogenous glycine. The enhancement presented significant regional differences (P<0.05, two-way ANOVA), with striatum higher than cerebral cortex (282 and 187% of control, respectively; P<0.05, Fisher's LSD). On the contrary, there was not any significant variation in affinity values of [(3)H]-CGP39653, L-glutamate, glycine and GV150526A in striatal and cortical membranes. These results confirmed the existence of regionally distinct NMDA receptors subtypes with different glycine/glutamate allosteric modulation. Whole brain autoradiography revealed an uneven distribution of [(3)H]-CGP39653 binding sites in human brain. High levels of binding were determined in hippocampus and in cingulate, frontoparietal and insular cortex. Intermediate to low levels of binding were found in diencephalic nuclei and basal ganglia. [(3)H]-CGP39653 binding was increased to 216% of control (mean between areas) by 30 microM GV150526A. The enhancement, however, did not present significant regional differences. These results introduce GV150526A as a useful tool to identify NMDA receptor subtypes by means of receptor autoradiography; moreover, they demonstrate that the allosteric inhibition of [(3)H]-CGP39653 binding by glycine parallels an increase in receptor affinity to the endogenous ligand L-glutamate. Finally, this study provides the first detailed anatomical description of the regional distribution of [(3)H]-CGP39653 binding sites in human brain.

Distribution of GABA(B(1a)), GABA(B(1b)) and GABA(B2) receptor protein in cerebral cortex and thalamus of adult rats

The distribution of GABA(B) receptor subunits GABA(B(1a)), GABA(B(1b)) and GABA(B2), has been examined in the cerebral cortex and thalamus of adult rats using an immunocytochemical technique. GABA(B(1a)) and GABA(B(1b)) subunits co-localized with GABA(B2) in the cortex, where afferent thalamic GABAergic axons project to pyramidal neurones. The expression patterns of GABA(B(1a)), GABA(B(1b)) and GABA(B2) were similar throughout the thalamus. The data suggest that the GABA(B(1b)) subunit might be the presynaptic isoform in the thalamo-cortical pathway with the GABA(B(1a)) subunit possibly present at postsynaptic sites on cell bodies. This contrasts with our previous data, obtained in cerebellum and spinal cord which indicate opposite locations. Thus, it seems unlikely that functional role along with cellular location can be assigned in a general manner to specific GABA(B) receptor subunit splice variants.

GABA(B(1)) mRNA expression in hippocampal sclerosis associated with human temporal lobe epilepsy

GABA(B) receptors act to inhibit neurotransmitter release from presynaptic terminals, and mediate the late inhibitory postsynaptic potential. Studies of GABA(B) receptor function in rodent models of temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) suggest that GABA(B) receptor expression and/or function may be perturbed. GABA(B(1)) mRNA levels were investigated in 10 hippocampal resection samples obtained at surgery from intractable hippocampal sclerosis (HS) associated TLE patients and five neurologically normal post-mortem (PM) control samples. In situ hybridisation with a 35S-dATP-labelled oligonucleotide was carried out to measure mRNA levels, along with three-dimensional cell counting, for assessment of neuronal density in hippocampal subregions. GABA(B(1)) mRNA was significantly up-regulated in the subiculum of HS samples as compared with PM controls. When adjusted for the characteristic neuronal density changes observed in HS, GABA(B(1)) mRNA was significantly up-regulated in CA1, hilus and dentate gyrus granule cell layer of HS samples as compared with PM controls. The possibility of increased GABA(B(1)) expression suggests that changes in GABA(B) receptor mechanisms may be involved in the pathogenesis of human HS-associated TLE.

GABA(B) receptor autoradiography in hippocampal sclerosis associated with human temporal lobe epilepsy

1. Metabotropic gamma-aminobutyric acid receptors (GABA(B)) exist both pre- and postsynaptically throughout the brain, mediating the suppression of neurotransmitter release and late inhibitory postsynaptic potentials. Investigation of GABA(B) receptors in rodent models of temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) suggests that expression or function of these receptors may be altered in the disorder. 2. The aim of the present study was to investigate the expression of GABA(B) receptors in samples of hippocampus surgically resected from patients with hippocampal sclerosis (HS) related intractable TLE, and compare this expression with samples of neurologically normal post-mortem (PM) control hippocampal tissue. Appropriate measures of neuronal loss associated with HS were investigated for comparison with receptor binding data. 3. Receptor autoradiography with [(3)H]-GABA in the presence of isoguvacine, and quantitative densitometric analysis were used to investigate GABA(B) receptor expression (B(max)) and affinity (K(D)) in 11 HS samples and eight controls. A three-dimensional cell counting technique was used to assess neuronal density in both groups. 4. GABA(B) receptor density was significantly reduced in CA1, CA2, CA3, hilus and dentate gyrus, and increased in the subiculum, of HS cases as compared with PM controls. Neuronal loss was significant in all regions measured. When adjusted for neuronal loss, CA1 GABA(B) receptor expression appeared significantly upregulated (P:<0.05). 5. In HS/TLE, GABA(B) receptor expression per remaining neurone appears increased in CA1. This finding, and increased [(3)H]-GABA affinity at CA3 and hilar GABA(B) receptors, suggests altered GABA(B) receptor function may occur in human HS/TLE, possibly as a result of synaptic reorganization.

GABA(B(1)) splice variant mRNAs are differentially affected by electroshock induced seizure in rats

Receptor autoradiography with the high affinity antagonist radioligand [3H]CGP62349 and in situ hybridization with radiolabelled oligonucleotides were used to investigate GABA(B) receptor protein expression, and GABA(B(1)) mRNA splice variant (GABA(B(1a)) and GABA(B(1b)) levels, in brain sections from rats 4 h following a single electroshock-induced generalized seizure. Densitometric analysis indicated that GABA(B(1a)) mRNA levels were not significantly altered by an acute electroshock seizure, but that GABA(B(1b)) mRNA levels were significantly increased throughout the brain. GABA(B) receptor expression at this time point was unaffected by the seizure. The observed up-regulation of GABA(B(1b)) mRNA levels may imply increased importance of this splice variant in the regulation of further seizure activity.

Effects of alpha-dendrotoxin and dendrotoxin K on extracellular excitatory amino acids and on electroencephalograph spectral power in the hippocampus of anaesthetised rats

Dendrotoxins, important pharmacological tools for studying K(+) channels, are potently convulsant in the central nervous system and evidence suggests that different members of the dendrotoxin family may act at pre- or post-synaptic sites. Using a combination of intrahippocampal infusion, microdialysis and electroencephalograph (EEG) recording, we have compared the effects of alpha-dendrotoxin and dendrotoxin K on extracellular levels of excitatory amino acids in anaesthetised rats. Our findings show that although infusion of 35 pmol of both peptides was associated with elevated extracellular aspartate and glutamate, these increased levels were more sustained with dendrotoxin K. Furthermore, there was EEG evidence of an associated transient functional change consistent with an action on pre-synaptic K(+) channels. In contrast, infusion of alpha-dendrotoxin produced only a brief effect on amino acid levels and no evidence of a functional consequence.

GABAB receptor protein and mRNA distribution in rat spinal cord and dorsal root ganglia

The presence of metabotropic receptors for GABA, GABAB, on primary afferent terminals in mammalian spinal cord has been previously reported. In this study we provide further evidence to support this in the rat and show that the GABAB receptor subunits GABAB1 and GABAB2 mRNA and the corresponding subunit proteins are present in the spinal cord and dorsal root ganglion. We also show that the predominant GABAB1 receptor subunit mRNA present in the afferent fibre cell body appears to be the 1a form. In frozen sections of lumbar spinal cord and dorsal root ganglia (DRG) GABAB receptors were labelled with [3H]CGP 62349 or the sections postfixed with paraformaldehyde and subjected to in situ hybridization using oligonucleotides designed to selectively hybridize with the mRNA for GABAB(1a), GABAB(1b) or GABAB2. For immunocytochemistry (ICC), sections were obtained from rats anaesthetized and perfused-fixed with paraformaldehyde. The distribution of binding sites for [3H]CGP 62349 mirrored that previously observed with [3H]GABA at GABAB sites. The density of binding sites was high in the dorsal horn but much lower in the ventral regions. By contrast, the density of mRNA (pan) was more evenly distributed across the laminae of the spinal cord. The density of mRNA detected with the pan probe was high in the DRG and distributed over the neuron cell bodies. This would accord with GABAB receptor protein being formed in the sensory neurons and transported to the primary afferent terminals. Of the GABAB1 mRNA in the DRG, approximately 90% was of the GABAB(1a) form and approximately 10% in the GABAB(1b) form. This would suggest that GABAB(1a) mRNA may be responsible for encoding presynaptic GABAB receptors on primary afferent terminals in a manner similar to that we have previously observed in the cerebellar cortex. GABAB2 mRNA was also evenly distributed across the spinal cord laminae at densities equivalent to those of GABAB1 in the dorsal horn. GABAB2 mRNA was also detected to the same degree within the DRG. Immunocytochemical analysis revealed that GABAB(1a), GABAB(1b) and GABAB2 were all present in the spinal cord. GABAB(1a) labelling appeared to be more dense than GABAB(1b) and within the superficial dorsal horn GABAB(1a) was present in the neuropil whereas GABAB(1b) was associated with cell bodies in this region. Both 1a and 1b immunoreactivity was expressed in motor neurons in lamina IX. GABAB2 immunoreactivity was expressed throughout the spinal cord and was evident within the neuropil of the superficial laminae.

Hippocampal extracellular amino acids and EEG spectral analysis in a genetic rat model of absence epilepsy

Absence seizures have a clearly defined thalamocortical origin. However, there is evidence from a genetic rat model of absence epilepsy, GAERS, that the underlying cellular and molecular abnormalities may also manifest themselves in other brain regions. As enhanced learning has previously been associated with this rat model, we have studied extracellular amino acid levels and EEG spectra in the hippocampus of these rats, this being a brain region associated with memory and learning. We report significantly higher levels of basal extracellular glutamate within the hippocampus of GAERS, together with transient increases in citrulline and glycine following aggravation of the absence seizures with the GABA(B) agonist, (-)baclofen. Furthermore, there is a reduction in the relative power of the EEG theta frequencies in GAERS, and a slowing of the EEG following administration of (-)baclofen which is not evident in control animals. Administration of a GABA(B) antagonist, CGP 56999, at a dose which blocks absence seizures in GAERS, caused a shift to faster frequencies of the EEG in both GAERS and control rats. It is speculated that the mechanisms underlying absence seizures in GAERS may manifest themselves in other functions modulated by thalamocortical oscillations such as cognitive processing.

Distribution of GABA(B) receptor protein in somatosensory cortex and thalamus of adult rats and during postnatal development

In the present study we report the immunolocalisation of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)(B) receptors within the cerebral somatosensory cortex (S1) and thalamus of adult and young (1-22 postnatal days) rats. The antibody used recognises a peptide in the carboxy-terminal domain and therefore did not distinguish between the different isoforms GABA(B)1a or GABA(B)1b. The results showed that GABA(B) receptor protein was widely distributed in the brain of both adult and young rats, with different degrees of labelling in separate cerebral nuclei. Antibody labelling was localised both on cells and the neuropil. In the cerebral cortex of adult animals the highest immunolabelling was evident in layers V and VIb, although immunoreactivity was also present in the superficial layers. The strongest signal was evident in the medial habenula.The thalamus showed labelling in the reticular, ventrobasal and geniculate nuclei. In the first postnatal days GABA(B) expression was evident in the cortical cells of layer V, VIb and in the cortical plate. The pattern of labelling in the cerebral cortex of young rats became indistinguishable from that of adult rats by day 12. In the thalamus, the main difference compared to the adult pattern was observed in the mediodorsal nucleus which, in early development, showed a high immunosignal, however, by postnatal day 22 the immunoreactivity decreased with only some scattered cells labelled in the adult brain.

Ethnomedicinally selected plants as sources of potential analgesic compounds: indication of in vitro biological activity in receptor binding assays

A number of plant species used in traditional medicine for the relief of pain have been selected from the medicinal and scientific literature of China, South America, Asia and West Africa. Extracts were prepared and tested in three in vitro receptor radioligand binding assays to determine whether there was an indication of biological activity, in particular their selectivity to a single receptor implicated in the mediation of pain. The three neuropeptide receptors chosen were Bradykinin (BK II), expressed in Chinese hamster ovary cells (CHO), neurokinin 1 (NK 1) expressed in astrocytoma cells, and calcitonin gene related peptide (CGRP) which were all implicated in the mediation of acute pain in the mammaliancentral nervous system. The plant species chosen to investigate were Ageratum conyzoides, Barringtonia edulis, Croton tiglium, Ipomea pes-caprae, Panax ginseng, Physostigma venenosum, Sinomenium acutum, Solidago virgaurea, Symplocos leptophylla and Typhonium giganteum. The results showed that there was a strong indication of biological activity for some of the plants which are used ethnomedicinally to treat pain, in the three in vitro receptor binding assays used, and particular plant extracts exhibited selective action to a single receptor.

Glial glutamate transporter mRNAs in the genetically absence epilepsy rat from Strasbourg

Recent studies support a critical role for the glutamatergic system and glutamate transporters in the pathogenesis of epilepsy. The glial glutamate transporters GLT-1 (L-glutamate transporter) and GLAST (L-glutamate/L-aspartate transporter) are known to be responsible for the majority of glutamate reuptake from the synaptic cleft and constitute one mechanism by which extracellular glutamate levels may be controlled. The present study therefore compared GLT-1 and GLAST mRNA levels in the genetically absence epilepsy rat from Strasbourg (GAERS) with those of age-matched non-epileptic controls. The GAERS rat has been proposed as an animal model of inherited human absence epilepsy, displaying recurrent, generalised, non-convulsive seizures that originate from thalamic and cortical structures. In situ hybridisation with 35S-labelled oligonucleotide probes demonstrated substantial and significant increases in GLT-1 mRNA levels in the ventromedial nucleus of the thalamus (VM) and the subthalamic nucleus (STN) of GAERS rats. Increases in GLAST mRNA were found in the primary somatosensory cortex (SS1) and temporal cortex (Te) of GAERS. These data, along with previous studies, suggest that regional imbalances in GABAergic and glutamatergic systems may be associated with the pathogenesis of absence seizures in GAERS.

gamma-aminobutyric acid(B) receptors: first of the functional metabotropic heterodimers

Activation of the metabotropic gamma-aminobutyric acid(B) (GABA(B)) receptor increases K(+) conductance and decreases Ca(2+) channel activity in neuronal membranes. Studies with a number of new GABA(B) receptor agonists and antagonists reveal that in addition to their muscle relaxant effects, agonists display analgesic activity and reduce the craving for cocaine. With regard to GABA(B) receptor antagonists, preclinical data suggest they improve cognitive performance and possess antidepressant and antiepileptic potential. With a high-affinity GABA(B) antagonist, the structural properties of the receptor were characterized through expression cloning. Moreover, it has been found that expression of a fully functional GABA(B) receptor requires coupling between two separate and distinct gene products: GABA(B) R1 and GABA(B) R2. Besides being the first example of a functional heterodiameric metabotropic receptor, the components and molecular configuration of the GABA(B) receptor suggest novel mechanisms for producing pharmacologically distinct subtypes of G protein-coupled receptors.

Pertussis toxin decreases absence seizures and GABA(B) receptor binding in thalamus of a genetically prone rat (GAERS)

Postsynaptic GABA(B) receptor-mediated events have previously been shown to be reduced by prior treatment with pertussis toxin in rat brain. In the present study genetic absence epilepsy rats from Strasbourg (GAERS) were given single bilateral injections of pertussis toxin (PTx 0.4 microg), denatured-PTx or vehicle saline into the relay nuclei of the thalamus under anaesthesia. After recovery the spike and wave discharge duration (SWD) was monitored for up to 6 days following which the brains were removed and GABA(B) or GABA(A) receptor autoradiography performed on 10 microm transverse sections. By 6 days the SWD of the rats treated with PTx was suppressed by 96% compared with vehicle-injected rats with a significant (62%) reduction even after 1 day. Denatured toxin had no effect at any time. After 6 days GABA(B), but not GABA(A), receptor binding was significantly reduced by 70-80% in the ventrolateral and ventral posteriolateral thalamic nuclei. No changes in other brain regions were detected and denatured toxin failed to alter GABA(A) or GABA(B) receptor binding in any brain region. These data implicate G-protein mechanisms in the generation of SWD in GAERS and support the role of GABA(B) receptors in their induction within the thalamus.

Localization of GABA(B) (R1) receptors in the rat hippocampus by immunocytochemistry and high resolution autoradiography, with specific reference to its localization in identified hippocampal interneuron subpopulations

Immunocytochemical and autoradiographic methods were used to localize the GABA(B) receptor in the normal rat hippocampus. GABA(B) receptor 1-like immunoreactivity (GBR1-LI) was most intense in presumed GABAergic interneurons of all hippocampal subregions. It was also present throughout the hippocampal neuropil, where it was most intense in the dendritic strata of the dentate gyrus, which are innervated by the perforant pathway and inhibitory dentate hilar cells, and in strata oriens and radiatum of area CA3. The dendritic regions of area CA1 exhibited less GBR1-LI than area CA3. GBR1-LI was detectable in the somata of CA1 pyramidal cells, but was minimal or undetectable within the somata of dentate granule cells and CA3 pyramidal cells. GBR1-LI was similarly minimal in the dentate hilar neuropil, and in stratum lucidum, the two regions that contain granule cell axons and terminals. Nor was GBR1-LI detectable in the inhibitory basket cell fiber systems that surround hippocampal principal cell somata. Fluorescence co-localization studies indicated that significant proportions of interneurons expressing somatostatin, neuropeptide Y, cholecystokinin, calbindin, or calretinin also expressed GBR1-LI constitutively. Conversely, parvalbumin-positive GABAergic basket cells of the dentate gyrus and hippocampus, which form GABA(A) receptor-mediated inhibitory axo-somatic synapses, rarely contained detectable GBR1-LI. High resolution autoradiography with the GABA(B) receptor antagonist CGP 62349 revealed a close correspondence between receptor ligand binding and GBR1-LI, with several notable exceptions. Ligand binding closely matched GBR1-LI throughout the hippocampal, cortical, thalamic, and cerebellar neuropil. However, the hippocampal interneuron somata and dendrites that exhibited the most intense GBR1-LI, and the GBR1-positive somata of CA1 pyramidal cells, did not exhibit a similar density of [3H]-CGP 62349 binding. These data clarify the relationship between immunocytochemically identified receptor protein and potentially functional receptors, indicating that GBR1-LI reflects both non-functional cytoplasmic GBR1 and the ligand-bindable form of the protein, both before dimerization with GBR2 and after translocation to functional sites within cells. The staining and binding patterns further suggest that GBR1 is constitutively expressed in specific neuronal populations, and may exist in higher concentration in the axons of inhibitory hippocampal pathways that innervate dendritic zones, than in axo-somatic inhibitory terminals. Whether GBR1 is inducible in cells that contain GBR1 mRNA, but no detectable constitutive protein, remains to be determined in experimental studies.

Distribution of GABA(B) binding sites in the thalamus and basal ganglia of the rhesus monkey (Macaca mulatta)

The regional distribution of GABA(B) receptor binding sites in the thalamus and basal ganglia of rhesus monkey has been determined by receptor autoradiography using the agonist ligand, [3H]-GABA. Whilst binding sites were evident throughout the thalamus, the internuclear differences in the Bmax were up to 10-fold. In the basal ganglia the binding density was on average lower than in the thalamus. The highest number of binding sites was in striatum followed closely by substantia nigra. In both the thalamus and basal ganglia, the binding density was higher than previously described in the rat. Although our results do not allow us to differentiate between presynaptic and postsynaptic locations of GABA(B) sites we conclude that with a few exceptions the distribution pattern of GABA(B) binding sites in the monkey thalamus appears to correlate with the known innervation from the NRT.

Peptide autoreceptors: does an autoreceptor for substance P exist?

The presence of autoreceptors for simple neurotransmitters at synapses in the mammalian nervous system is well established. By contrast, the evidence for such receptors modifying neuropeptide transmission is less obvious. Probably the most well characterized of the neuropeptides is substance P (SP), which appears to play a major role as a primary afferent modulator. This article highlights evidence to support the existence of autoreceptors that might modulate the release of this neuropeptide and which, therefore, could be important in the design of drugs affecting SP function, not only in sensory processing, but also elsewhere in the brain.

Distribution and properties of GABA(B) antagonist [3H]CGP 62349 binding in the rhesus monkey thalamus and basal ganglia and the influence of lesions in the reticular thalamic nucleus

GABA(B) receptors are believed to be associated with the efferents of the nucleus reticularis thalami, which is implicated in the regulation of activity in the thalamocortical-corticothalamic circuit and plays a role in absence seizures. Yet, the distribution of GABA(B) receptors in the thalamus has only been studied in the rat, and there is no comparable information in primates. The potent GABA(B) receptor antagonist [3H]CGP 62349 was used to study the distribution and binding properties of the receptor in control monkeys and those with small ibotenic acid lesions in the anterodorsal segment of the nucleus reticularis thalami. Eight-micrometer-thick cryostat sections of the fresh frozen brains were incubated in the presence of varying concentrations of the ligand. Autoradiographs were analysed using a quantitative image analysis technique, and binding parameters were calculated for select thalamic nuclei as well as basal ganglia structures present in the same sections. The overall number of GABA(B) binding sites in the monkey thalamus and basal ganglia was several-fold higher than previously reported values for the rat. In the thalamus, the receptors were distributed rather uniformly and the binding densities and affinities were high (Bmax range of 245.5-437.9 fmol/ mg of tissue, Kd range of 0.136-0.604 nM). In the basal ganglia, the number of binding sites and the affinities were lower (Bmax range of 51.1-244.2 fmol/mg of tissue; K(d) range of 0.416-1.394 nM), and the differences between nuclei were more pronounced, with striatum and substantia nigra pars compacta displaying the highest binding densities. Seven days post-lesion, a 20-30% decrease in Bmax values (P < 0.05) was found in the nuclei receiving input from the lesioned nucleus reticularis thalami sector (the mediodorsal nucleus and densicellular and magnocellular parts of the ventral anterior nucleus) without changes in affinity. No significant changes were detected in any other structures. The results of the lesioning experiments suggest that a portion of thalamic GABA(B) receptors is in a presynaptic location on the nucleus reticularis thalami efferents. The overall distribution pattern in the thalamus also suggests a partial association of GABA(B) receptors with corticothalamic terminals presynaptically.

NMDA NR1 subunit mRNA and glutamate NMDA-sensitive binding are differentially affected in the striatum and pre-frontal cortex of Parkinson's disease patients

Changes in the levels of mRNA for the NR1 subunit of the glutamate NMDA receptor and in NMDA-sensitive glutamate binding were investigated in consecutive sections of the prefrontal cortex and striatum of control and Parkinson's disease (PD) post-mortem brain using in-situ hybridisation and receptor autoradiography. Both markers of NMDA receptors were found to be relatively unaffected when measured by microdensitometry in the prefrontal cortex of control and PD brains. At a cellular level, a subpopulation of small and medium neurons in the superficial layers of the prefrontal cortex of the PD group showed a decreased expression of NMDA NR1 mRNA, with the maximal decrease in cortical layer IV. In the striatum, levels of glutamate binding to the NMDA receptor detected by receptor autoradiodgraphy were significantly reduced in the PD group, while no change could be detected at a macroscopical level in NMDA NR1 mRNA expression. Consequently, we suggest that the important decrease in agonist binding to the NMDA receptor observed in this study in the caudate and putamen of PD brains, in the absence of any major change in NMDA NR1 mRNA levels might reflect the degeneration of pre-synaptic NMDA receptors located on nigro-striatal projections particularly affected by the disease. Small changes observed at a cellular level in subsets of neurons of both prefrontal cortex and striatum will be discussed at the light of neurochemical changes characteristics of PD.

GABA release and uptake measured in crude synaptosomes from Genetic Absence Epilepsy Rats from Strasbourg (GAERS)

GABA release and uptake were examined in Genetic Absence Epilepsy Rats from Strasbourg and in non-epileptic control animals, using crude synaptosomes prepared from the cerebral cortex and thalamus. Uptake of [3H]GABA over time was reduced in thalamic synaptosomes from epileptic rats, compared to controls. The affinity of the uptake process in thalamic synaptosomes was lower in epileptic animals. NNC-711, a ligand for the GAT-1 uptake protein, reduced synaptosomal uptake by more than 95%; beta-alanine, an inhibitor selective for the uptake proteins GAT-2 and -3, did not significantly reduce synaptosomal uptake. Autoradiography studies using [3H]tiagabine, a ligand selective for GAT-1, revealed no differences between the strains in either affinity or levels of binding. Ethanolamine O-sulphate (100 microM), a selective inhibitor of GABA-transaminase, did not affect uptake levels. Aminooxyacetic acid (10-100 microM), an inhibitor of GABA-transaminase and, to a lesser extent, glutamate decarboxylase, caused an increase in measured uptake in both thalamic and cortical synaptosomes, in both strains. We found no difference in in vitro basal or KCl-stimulated endogenous GABA release between epileptic and control rats. These results indicate that GABA uptake in the thalamus of Genetic Absence Epilepsy Rats from Strasbourg was reduced, compared to control animals. The lower uptake affinity in the epileptic animals probably contributed to the reduction in uptake over time. Uptake appeared to be mediated primarily by the 'neuronal' transporter GAT-1. Autoradiography studies revealed no differences in the number or affinity of this uptake protein. It is therefore possible that altered functional modulation of GAT-1 caused the decrease in uptake shown in the epileptic animals. Inhibition of GABA-transaminase activity had no effect on measured GABA uptake, whereas a reduction in glutamate decarboxylase activity may have affected measured uptake levels.

GABA(B) receptor isoforms GBR1a and GBR1b, appear to be associated with pre- and post-synaptic elements respectively in rat and human cerebellum

1. Metabotropic gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptors, GABA(B), are coupled through G-proteins to K+ and Ca2+ channels in neuronal membranes. Cloning of the GABAB receptor has not uncovered receptor subtypes, but demonstrated two isoforms, designated GBR1a and GBR1b, which differ in their N terminal regions. In the rodent cerebellum GABA(B) receptors are localized to a greater extent in the molecular layer, and are reported to exist on granule cell parallel fibre terminals and Purkinje cell (PC) dendrites, which may represent pre- and post-synaptic receptors. 2. The objective of this study was to localize the mRNA splice variants, GBR1a and GBR1b for GABA(B) receptors in rat cerebellum, for comparison with the localization in human cerebellum using in situ hybridization. 3. Receptor autoradiography was performed utilizing [3H]-CGP62349 to localize GABA(B) receptors in rat and human cerebellum. Radioactively labelled oligonucleotide probes were used to localize GBR1a and GBR1b, and by dipping slides in photographic emulsion, silver grain images were obtained for quantification at the cellular level. 4. Binding of 0.5 nM [3H]-CGP62349 demonstrated significantly higher binding to GABA(B) receptors in the molecular layer than the granule cell (GC) layer of rat cerebellum (molecular layer binding 200+/-11% of GC layer; P<0.0001). GBR1a mRNA expression was found to be predominantly in the GC layer (PC layer grains 6+/-6% of GC layer grains; P<0.05), and GBR1b expression predominantly in PCs (PC layer grains 818+/-14% of GC layer grains; P<0.0001). 5. The differential distribution of GBR1a and GBR1b mRNA splice variants for GABA(B) receptors suggests a possible association of GBR1a and GBR1b with pre- and post-synaptic elements respectively.

Effects of GABAB receptor antagonism on the development of pentylenetetrazol-induced kindling in mice

Pentylenetetrazol (PTZ) administered chronically in rodents induces kindling which is considered to be a model of chronic epilepsy mediated through a specific interaction with the GABA-gated chloride ionophore. PTZ kindling also impairs shuttle-box learning indicating a possible modulation of memory storage [A. Becker, G. Grecksch, H. Mathies. The influence of diazepam on learning processes impaired by pentylenetetrazol kindling. Naunyn-Schmiedeberg's Arch. Pharmacol. 349 (1994) 429-496]. Since GABAB receptor antagonism has been shown to improve cognitive performance in rodents and primates we have examined the effects of 3 antagonists; CGP 36742 (3-amino-propyl-n-butyl-phosphinic acid), CGP 56433 ([3-¿1-(S)-[¿3-(cyclohexylmethyl) hydroxyphosphinyl]-2-(S)-hydroxypropyl]-amino]ethyl]benzoic acid) and CGP 61334 ([3-¿[3[(diethoxymethyl)hydroxyphosphinyl]-propyl-amino¿meth yl]-benzoic acid) on the induction of PTZ kindling in mice at 48 h intervals for 8 weeks. Subsequently the mice were tested in an active avoidance paradigm. At the end of the experiment GABAB receptor autoradiography was performed on brain sections from these animals. Seizure intensity increased progressively in control mice reaching by 8 weeks a mean score which corresponded to clonic seizures. The GABAB antagonists suppressed kindling during the first 4 weeks and after that restored the seizure intensity to the level of control animals. The level of kindling was proportional to the avoidance score. The density of GABAB receptor binding in brain sections from PTZ kindled mice was significantly greater than in controls. This was not altered by pretreatment with the GABAB antagonists except in the cerebellum.

Blockade of GABA(B) receptors facilitates muscarinic agonist-induced epileptiform activity in immature rat piriform cortex in vitro

The effects of the selective GABA(B) receptor antagonist [3-[[(3,4-dichlorophenyl)methyl]aminolpropyl] (diethoxymethyl) phosphinic acid (CGP 52432) on muscarinic (mAChR) and metabotropic glutamate (mGluR) responsiveness were studied in slices of piriform cortex from both immature (P16-P22) and adult (> or =P40) rats, using a conventional intracellular recording technique. In both adult and immature slices, CGP 52432 (1 microM) had no effect on neuronal membrane properties, whereas it selectively abolished the late inhibitory postsynaptic potential (IPSP) evoked by local electrical stimulation of association fibre terminals. Age-related changes in mAChR (but not mGluR) responsiveness were also detected. In adult neurones, bath-application of the mAChR agonist oxotremorine-M (OXO-M; 10 microM), or the selective mGluR agonist 1S,3R-aminocyclopentane-1,3-dicarboxylic acid (1S,3R-ACPD; 10 microM) evoked similar membrane depolarization and inhibition of evoked excitatory postsynaptic potentials (EPSPs). However, while 1S,3R-ACPD and OXO-M produced indistinguishable slow excitatory effects in immature slices, during superfusion with OXO-M, neurones exhibited spontaneous paroxysmal depolarizing shifts (PDSs) that were suppressed in the presence of atropine (1 microM) or the selective GABA(B) receptor agonist beta-parachlorophenyl-gamma-aminobutyric acid [(-)baclofen; 10 microM]. Also, application of OXO-M resulted in a pronounced prolongation (rather than a decrease) of electrically evoked postsynaptic potentials (PSPs) which now exhibited recurrent superimposed spike discharges. In adult slices, in the continuous presence of CGP 52432 (1 microM; 20 min pre-incubation), a subsequent exposure to 10 microM OXO-M or 1S,3R-ACPD failed to induce any spontaneous epileptiform activity, and evoked PSPs were consistently suppressed. In contrast, in immature slices, after incubation in CGP 52432 (1 microM; 20 min), a subsequent application of a low dose of OXO-M (2.5 microM), which was inactive per se, was able to produce spontaneous PDSs and a prolongation of evoked PSPs. We conclude that a reduction in GABA(B)-mediated synaptic inhibition in immature slices (in co-operation with other factors) may contribute to the facilitation of excitatory neurotransmission and therefore play a role in the generation of mAChR-induced epileptiform activity.

N-terminal splice variants of the NMDAR1 glutamate receptor subunit: differential expression in human and monkey brain

The distribution of the mRNA coding for the two N-terminal splice variants of the N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor 1 (NMDAR1) subunit of the glutamate NMDA receptor was studied on whole-hemisphere human and macaca fascicularis brain sections by in-situ hybridisation. Synthetic oligonucleotides directed against NMDAR1a and NMDAR1b variants showed a specific distribution that was similar in human and monkey brain, with the NMDAR1a isoform present in the majority of the NMDA receptors, and the NMDAR1b variant present at high levels only in the cortex and dentate gyrus of the hippocampus. The distribution of the mRNAs for the NMDAR1pan and NMDAR1a subunit reported in this study support previous findings in rodent brain, while the restricted distribution of the NMDAR1b variant found in human and monkey suggests some important differences in the composition of the NMDA receptor in rodents and primates.

The modulatory effects of high affinity GABA(B) receptor antagonists in an active avoidance learning paradigm in rats

It has been reported that selective GABA(B) receptor antagonists can enhance cognitive performance in a variety of learning paradigms. This prompted us to examine the effects of some more potent and newly synthesised GABAB antagonists CGP 71982, CGP 62349 and CGP 55845A in an active avoidance test in rats. A two-way active avoidance test with negative reinforcement was performed for the first 5 of 12 days of antagonist administration. CGP 71982 and CGP 55845A at all doses applied (0.01-1.0 mg/kg) had an improving effect on learning, and memory retention on day 12; the rats made more avoidances in both sessions compared to controls. CGP 62349 was only active at the lowest dose tested (0.01 mg/kg). The present study confirms that GABA(B) receptor antagonists can enhance cognitive performance but provides no insight into the mechanism of action of these novel antagonists.

In vivo [11C]flumazenil-PET correlates with ex vivo [3H]flumazenil autoradiography in hippocampal sclerosis

By using [11C]flumazenil-positron emission tomography ([11C]FMZ-PET), we have previously shown that reductions of central benzodiazepine receptors (cBZRs) are restricted to the hippocampus in mesial temporal lobe epilepsy (mTLE) caused by unilateral hippocampal sclerosis (HS). Receptor autoradiographic studies on resected hippocampal specimens from the same patients demonstrated loss of cBZRs that was over and above loss of neurons in the CA1 subregion. Here, we report the first direct comparison of in vivo cBZR binding with [11C]FMZ-PET and ex vivo binding using [3H]FMZ autoradiography. We applied a magnetic resonance imaging-based method for partial volume effect correction to the PET images of [11C]FMZ volume of distribution ([11C]FMZ Vd) obtained in 10 patients with refractory mTLE due to unilateral, histologically verified HS. Saturation autoradiography was performed on the hippocampal specimens obtained from the same patients, allowing calculation of receptor availability ([3H]FMZ Bmax). After correction for partial volume effect, [11C]FMZ Vd in the body of the epileptogenic hippocampus was reduced by a mean of 42.1% compared with normal controls. [3H]FMZ Bmax, determined autoradiographically from the same hippocampal tissue, was reduced by a mean of 42.7% compared with control hippocampi. Absolute in vivo and ex vivo measurements of cBZR binding for the body of the hippocampus were significantly correlated in each individual. Our study demonstrates that reduction of available cBZR on remaining neurons in HS can be reliably detected in vivo by using [11C]FMZ-PET after correction for partial volume effect.

[3H]MK-801 binding and the mRNA for the NMDAR1 subunit of the NMDA receptor are differentially distributed in human and rat forebrain

The distributions of [3H]MK-801 binding and the NMDA NR1 subunit mRNA were studied using receptor autoradiography and in-situ hybridization in rat and human brain whole-hemisphere coronal sections. Receptor protein detected by radioligand autoradiography and the mRNA for the key subunit of the receptor presented similar distributions in the forebrain, with a few areas showing an imbalance between the levels of mRNA and receptor protein. Human frontal cortex showed a relative abundance of NMDAR1 mRNA as compared to [3H]MK-801 binding. The same area in rat brain did not show any difference in the two distributions. In comparison, the rat claustrum presented a relative excess of NMDAR1 mRNA which was not detected in human sections. Human caudate nucleus exhibited relatively high levels of [3H]MK-801 binding that were unmatched in rat caudate. The hippocampi of either species presented similar levels of [3H]MK-801 binding and NMDAR1 mRNA, but when the two signals were measured in specific subfields of the hippocampal formation, the differential distribution of the two signals reflected the anatomy of hippocampal connections assuming a preferential dendritic distribution for MK-801 binding. Interestingly, rat and human hippocampi also showed some important species-dependent difference in the relative distribution of the receptor protein and mRNA. The data presented show an overall good correlation between the mRNA for the key subunit of the NMDA receptor and the functional receptor detected with radioligand binding and highlight the presence of local differences in their ratio. This may reflect different splicing of the mRNA for the NMDAR1 subunit in specific brain areas of rat and human. The species-dependent differences in the relative distribution of the mRNA for the key subunit of the NMDA receptor and that of a marker of functional receptors also highlights important differences in the NMDA function in rat and human brain.

Central benzodiazepine receptor autoradiography in hippocampal sclerosis

1. The gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)A/central benzodiazepine receptor (cBZR) complex is a major inhibitory receptor in the vertebrate CNS. Binding of [11C]-flumazenil to this complex in vivo is reduced in hippocampal sclerosis (HS). It has been uncertain whether reduced cBZR binding is entirely due to neuronal loss in HS. 2. The objective of this study was to characterize abnormalities of the cBZR in HS with a correlative autoradiographic and quantitative neuropathological study. 3. Saturation autoradiographic studies were performed with [3H]-flumazenil to investigate relationships between neuronal density and receptor availability (Bmax) and affinity (Kd) in HS. Hippocampal tissue was obtained at surgery from 8 patients with intractable temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) due to HS and autopsies of 6 neurologically normal controls. Neuronal densities were obtained by means of a 3-D counting method. 4. Bmax values for [3H]-flumazenil binding in the subiculum, CA1, CA2, CA3, hilus and dentate gyrus were all found to be significantly reduced in HS compared with controls and significant increases in affinity were observed in the subiculum, hilus and dentate gyrus. In HS, cBZR density in the CA1 region was significantly reduced (P < 0.05) to a greater extent than could be attributable to neurone loss. In other regions, Bmax was reduced in parallel with neuronal density. 5. In HS, there is a loss of cBZR in CA1 over and above loss of neurones. This finding and increases in affinity for flumazenil in subiculum, hilus and dentate gyrus imply a functional abnormality of the GABAA/cBZR complex that may have a role in the pathophysiology of epileptogenicity in HS.

A new method of preparing human whole brain sections for in vitro receptor autoradiography

In vitro receptor autoradiography is a widely used technique for determining the distribution of radioligand binding sites. By using this technique it is possible to investigate alterations in receptor number and affinity caused by trauma or a disease state. To date, however, the largest sections prepared for in vitro autoradiography have been from single human hemispheres, with the adjacent hemisphere being used for neuropathological investigations. Therefore, a method for cutting large cryosections of human whole brain tissue is described. Whole brains obtained less than 2 days postmortem were frozen at -80 degrees C. 1.5-2 cm coronal slices were cut from the brain and embedded and frozen in a carboxymethylcellulose solution. Sections 40 microm in size were sliced from the frozen block at -16 degrees C in a whole body cryostat. The sections were lifted by means of a nylon membrane backing material and subsequently incubated with tritiated ligand to produce autoradiograms of each whole brain coronal section. [(3)H]paroxetine was used in the present study as an example.

An autoradiographic study of dextromethorphan high-affinity binding sites in rat brain: sodium-dependency and colocalization with paroxetine

1. The distribution and some pharmacological properties of centrally located dextromethorphan high-affinity binding sites were investigated by in vitro autoradiography. 2. Sodium chloride (50 mM) induced a 7 to 12 fold increase in dextromethorphan binding to rat brain in all areas tested. The effect of sodium was concentration-dependent with a higher dose (120 mM) exerting a smaller effect on binding. 3. [3H]-dextromethorphan binding in the presence of sodium was inhibited in the presence of the anticonvulsant phenytoin at a concentration of 100 microM, while the sigma ligand (+)-3-(-3-hydroxyphenyl)-N-(1-propyl)pipendine ((+)-PPP) had no effect on the binding, suggesting an interaction with the DM2 site. 4. The distribution of the sodium-dependent binding identified in this study correlated significantly with the distribution of the selective 5-HT uptake inhibitor [3H]-paroxetine, and paroxetine and dextromethorphan mutually displaced their binding at concentrations in the low nanomolar range. 5. These data show that dextromethorphan and paroxetine share a sodium-dependent high affinity binding site in rat brain, and suggest that dextromethorphan might interact, in the presence of sodium, with the 5-HT uptake mechanism in rat brain.

Effects of GABAB receptor antagonists on learning and memory retention in a rat model of absence epilepsy

A variety of animal models of absence epilepsy have been described and among these exists a genetically susceptible strain of rat (genetic absence epilepsy rats of Strasbourg (GAERS)). These rats produce periods of behavioural arrest with simultaneous production of cortical spike and wave discharges (SWD). GABAB receptor antagonists suppress completely the production of these spike and wave discharges. GABAB receptor ligands have also been reported to affect cognitive performance in rodents. The present study examined the cognitive performance of GAERS and the influence of GABAB receptor antagonists on this activity. Rats were injected intraperitoneally once per day with saline or a GABAB receptor antagonist (CGP 36742 (3-amino-propyl-n-butyl-phosphinic acid) 100 mg/kg; CGP 56433 ([3-(1-(S)-[(3-(cyclohexylmethyl)hydroxy phosphinyl]-2-(S) hydroxy propyl] amino]ethyl]benzoic acid) ([3-{1-(S)-[{3-(cyclohexylmethyl)hydroxy phosphinyl]-2-(S) hydroxy propyl] amino]ethyl]benzoic acid) 1 mg/kg or CGP 61334 ([3-({[3-[(diethoxymethyl)hydroxy phosphinyl]propyl] amino}methyl]-benzoic acid (1 mg/kg). A two-way active avoidance test paradigm with negative reinforcement was used. Untreated GAERS performed significantly better than non-epileptic rats (P < 0.05) and this enhancement in cognitive performance was sustained in rats treated with the GABAB receptor antagonists.

Responses of rat substantia nigra dopamine-containing neurones to (-)-HA-966 in vitro

1. Extracellular single unit recording techniques were used to compare the effects of (-)-3-amino-1-hydroxypyrrolidin-2-one ((-)-HA-966) and (+/-)-baclofen on the activity of dopamine-containing neurones in 300 microns slices of rat substantia nigra. Electrophysiological data were compared with the outcome of in vitro binding experiments designed to assess the affinity of (-)-HA-966 for gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABAB) receptors. 2. Bath application of (-)-HA-966 produced a concentration-dependent inhibition of dopaminergic neuronal firing (EC50 = 444.0 microM; 95% confidence interval: 277.6 microM - 710.1 microM, n = 27) which was fully reversible upon washout from the recording chamber. Although similar effects were observed in response to (+/-)-baclofen, the direct-acting GABAB receptor agonist proved to be considerably more potent than (-)-HA-966 (EC50 = 0.54 microM; 95% confidence interval: 0.44 microM - 0.66 microM, n = 29) in vitro. 3. Low concentrations of chloral hydrate (10 microM) were without effect on the basal firing rate of nigral dopaminergic neurones but significantly increased the inhibitory effects produced by concomitant application of (-)-HA-966. 4. The inhibitory effects of (-)-HA-966 were completely reversed in the presence of the GABAB receptor antagonists, CGP-35348 (100 microM) and 2-hydroxysaclofen (500 microM). Bath application of CGP-35348 alone increased basal firing rate. However, the magnitude of the excitation (9.2 +/- 0.3%) was not sufficient to account for the ability of the antagonist to reverse fully the inhibitory effects of (-)-HA-966. 5. (-)-HA-966 (0.1-1.0 mM) produced a concentration-dependent displacement of [3H]-GABA from synaptic membranes in the presence of isoguvacine (40 microM). However, the affinity of the drug for GABAB binding sites was significantly less than that of GABA (0.0005 potency ratio) and showed no apparent stereoselectivity. 6. These results indicate that while (-)-HA-966 appears to act as a direct GABAB receptor agonist in vitro, its affinity for this receptor site is substantially less than that of GABA or baclofen and unlikely to account for the depressant actions of this drug which occur at levels approximately ten fold lower in vivo.

Characteristics of GABAB receptor binding sites on rat whole brain synaptic membranes. 1983

Saturable binding of (±)-[³H]-baclofen and [³H]-γ-aminobutyric acid ([³H]-GABA) to rat brain crude synaptic membranes has been examined by means of a centrifugation assay.

The binding of [³H]-baclofen could be detected in fresh or previously frozen tissue and was dependent on the presence of physiological concentrations of Ca²⁺ or Mg²⁺ although a lower affinity Na⁺-dependent component could also be observed. Both components probably reflect binding to receptor recognition sites.

The saturable portion of bound [³H]-baclofen formed 20.3 ± 6.9% of total bound ligand. This could be displaced by GABA (IC₅₀ = 0.04 μm), (–)-baclofen (0.04 μm) and to a much lesser extent by (+)-baclofen (33 μm). Isoguvacine, piperidine-4-sulphonic acid and bicuculline methobromide were inactive (up to 100 μm) and muscimol was only weakly active (IC₅₀ = 12.3 μm).

Saturable binding of [³H]-GABA increased on adding CaCl₂ or MgSO₄ (up to 2.5 Mm and 5.0 Mm respectively) to the Tris-HCl incubation solution. This binding (GABA_B site binding) was additional to the bicuculline-sensitive binding of GABA (GABA_A site binding) and could be completely displaced by (–)-baclofen (IC₅₀ = 0.13 μm).

Increasing the Ca²⁺ concentration (0 to 2.5 Mm) increased the binding capacity of the membranes without changing their affinity for the ligand.

The binding of [³H]-GABA to GABA_B sites could be demonstrated in fresh as well as previously frozen membranes with a doubling of the affinity being produced by freezing. Further incubation with the non-ionic detergent Triton-X-100 (0.05% v/v) reduced the binding capacity by 50%.

The pharmacological profile of displacers of [³H]-GABA from GABA_B sites correlated well with that for [³H]-baclofen displacement. A correlation with data previously obtained in isolated preparations of rat atria and mouse vas deferens was also apparent.

It is concluded that [³H]-baclofen or [³H]-GABA are both ligands for the same bicuculline-insensitive, divalent cation-dependent binding sites in the rat brain.

GABA and its receptors in the spinal cord

The importance of the inhibitory neurotransmitter, GABA, within higher centres of the mammalian brain is unquestionable. However, its role within the spinal cord is of equal significance. There have been numerous studies over the past two decades that have established GABA as a neurotransmitter at both post- and presynaptic sites in the cord. Here, Marzia Malcangio and Norman Bowery review the current status of GABA in relation to nociception and skeletal muscle tone, and indicate that its contribution to spinal cord function should not be overlooked.

Application of radioligand receptor binding assays in the search for CNS active principles from Chinese medicinal plants

Extracts of Schefflera bodinieri and S. delavayi (Araliaceae), Celastrus angulatus and C. orbiculatus (Celastraceae), Clerodendrum mandarinorum and C. bungei (Verbenaceae), Periploca callophylla and P. forrestii (Asclepiadaceae), Alangium platanifolium (Alangiaceae) and Uncaria rhynchophylla (Rubiaceae) were assessed for CNS activity against 18 radioligand receptor binding assays. The receptors used were alpha 1-, alpha 2- and beta-adrenoceptors, 5HT-1, 5HT-1A, 5HT-2, opiate, adenosine-1, benzodiazepine, Ca+2 channel, sulphonylureas, dopamine-1, dopamine-2, muscarinic, histamine-1, Na+/K+ ATPase, GABAA and GABAB. The results indicate that these ligand-receptor binding assays are useful for understanding the mode of action of herbal medicines and for bioassay guided fractionation of plant active ingredients.

Regionally different N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors distinguished by ligand binding and quantitative autoradiography of [3H]-CGP 39653 in rat brain

1. Binding of D,L-(E)-2-amino-4-[3H]-propyl-5-phosphono-3-pentenoic acid ([3H]-CGP 39653), a high affinity, selective antagonist at the glutamate site of the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor, was investigated in rat brain by means of receptor binding and quantitative autoradiography techniques. 2. [3H]-CGP 39653 interacted with striatal and cerebellar membranes in a saturable manner and to a single binding site, with KD values of 15.5 nM and 10.0 nM and receptor binding densities (Bmax values) of 3.1 and 0.5 pmol mg-1 protein, respectively. These KD values were not significantly different from that previously reported in the cerebral cortex (10.7 nM). 3. Displacement analyses of [3H]-CGP 39653 in striatum and cerebellum, performed with L-glutamic acid, 3-((+/-)-2-carboxypiperazin-4-yl)propyl-1-phosphonic acid (CPP) and glycine showed a pharmacological profile similar to that reported in the cerebral cortex. L-Glutamic acid and CPP produced complete displacement of specific binding with Ki values not significantly different from the cerebral cortex. Glycine inhibited [3H]CGP 39653 binding with shallow, biphasic curves, characterized by a high and a low affinity component. Furthermore, glycine discriminated between these regions (P < 0.005, one-way ANOVA), since the apparent Ki of the high affinity component of the glycine inhibition curve (KiH) was significantly lower (Fisher's protected LSD) in the striatum than the cortex (33 nM and 104 nM, respectively). 4. Regional binding of [3H]-CGP 39653 to horizontal sections of rat brain revealed a heterogeneous distribution of binding sites, similar to that reported for other radiolabelled antagonists at the NMDA site (D-2-[3H]-amino-5-phosphonopentanoic acid ([3H]-D-AP5) and [3H]-CPP). High values of binding were detected in the hippocampal formation, cerebral cortex and thalamus, with low levels in striatum and cerebellum. 5. [3H]-CGP 39653 binding was inhibited by increasing concentrations of L-glutamic acid, CPP and glycine. L-Glutamic acid and CPP completely displaced specific binding in all regions tested, with similar IC50 values throughout. Similarly, glycine was able to inhibit the binding in all areas considered: 10 microM and 1 mM glycine reduced the binding to 80% and 65% of control (average between areas) respectively. The percentage of specific [3H]-CGP 39653 binding inhibited by 1 mM glycine varied among regions (P < 0.05, two-ways ANOVA). Multiple comparison, performed by Fisher's protected LSD method, showed that the inhibition was lower in striatum (72% of control), with respect to cortex (66% of control) and hippocampal formation (58% of control). 6. The inhibitory action of 10 microM glycine was reversed by 100 microM 7-chloro-kynurenic acid (7-CKA), a competitive antagonist of the glycine site of the NMDA receptor channel complex, in all areas tested. Moreover, reversal by 7-CKA was not the same in all regions (P < 0.05, two-ways ANOVA). In fact, in the presence of 10 microM glycine and 100 microM 7-KCA, specific [3H]-CGP 39653 binding in the striatum was 131% of control, which was significantly greater (Fisher's protected LSD) than binding in the hippocampus and the thalamus (104% and 112% of control, respectively). 7. These results demonstrate that [3H]-CGP 39653 binding can be inhibited by glycine in rat brain regions containing NMDA receptors; moreover, they suggest the existence of regionally distinct NMDA receptor subtypes with a different allosteric mechanism of [3H]-CGP 39653 binding modulation through the associated glycine site.

Chemical and biological investigation of the root bark of Clerodendrum mandarinorum

A 70% EtOH extract of Clerodendrum mandarinorum root bark was assessed for CNS activity against 18 radioligand receptor binding assays. The results showed that the extract was able to bind to opiate, adenosine-1, alpha 2-adrenergic, 5HT-1, 5HT-2, dopamine-2, histamine-1, GABA(A), and GABA(B) receptors. Fourteen compounds were isolated and identified by El-MS, 1H-NMR and 13C-NMR spectra as known triterpenoids (friedelanone, lupeol, betulinic acid), steroids (24S-stigmata-5,25-dien-3 beta-ol,22E,24S-stigmata-5,22,25-trien-3 beta-ol), flavonoids (cirsimaritin, cirsimaritin-4'-glucoside, quercetin-3-methyl ether), tetra-hydro-alpha-pyrone and saccharides (sucrose, alpha-D- and beta-D-glucopyranose, ethyl-alpha-D-glucopyranoside, 2-ethyl-beta-D-fructofuranoside). The isolated compounds were assessed for activity by the radioligand receptor binding assays. Betulinic acid and ethyl-alpha-D-glucopyranoside showed weak activities against sulphonylureas (IC50 = 7.5 microM) and muscarinic receptors (IC50 = 5.5 microM), respectively. Cirsimaritin-4'-glucoside was weakly active in the adenosine-1 binding assay (IC50 = 3.0 microM), whereas seven structurally related flavonoids, not isolated from C.mandarinorum, were inactive.