Metabolic Heterogeneity, Plasticity, and Adaptation to "Glutamine Addiction" in Cancer Cells: The Role of Glutaminase and the GTωA [Glutamine Transaminase-ω-Amidase (Glutaminase II)] Pathway

Many cancers utilize l-glutamine as a major energy source. Often cited in the literature as "l-glutamine addiction", this well-characterized pathway involves hydrolysis of l-glutamine by a glutaminase to l-glutamate, followed by oxidative deamination, or transamination, to α-ketoglutarate, which enters the tricarboxylic acid cycle. However, mammalian tissues/cancers possess a rarely mentioned, alternative pathway (the glutaminase II pathway): l-glutamine is transaminated to α-ketoglutaramate (KGM), followed by ω-amidase (ωA)-catalyzed hydrolysis of KGM to α-ketoglutarate. The name glutaminase II may be confused with the glutaminase 2 (GLS2) isozyme. Thus, we recently renamed the glutaminase II pathway the "glutamine transaminase-ω-amidase (GTωA)" pathway. Herein, we summarize the metabolic importance of the GTωA pathway, including its role in closing the methionine salvage pathway, and as a source of anaplerotic α-ketoglutarate. An advantage of the GTωA pathway is that there is no net change in redox status, permitting α-ketoglutarate production during hypoxia, diminishing cellular energy demands. We suggest that the ability to coordinate control of both pathways bestows a metabolic advantage to cancer cells. Finally, we discuss possible benefits of GTωA pathway inhibitors, not only as aids to studying the normal biological roles of the pathway but also as possible useful anticancer agents.

Mechanism of cognitive impairment induced by d-galactose and l-glutamate through gut-brain interaction in tree shrews

d-Galactose (d-gal) and l-glutamate (l-glu) impair learning and memory. The mechanism of interaction between the gut microbiome and brain remains unclear. In this study, a model of cognitive impairment was induced in tree shrews by intraperitoneal (ip) injection of d-gal (600 mg/kg/day), intragastric (ig) administration with l-glu (2000 mg/kg/day), and the combination of d-gal (ip, 600 mg/kg/day) and l-glu (ig, 2000 mg/kg/day). The cognitive function of tree shrews was tested by the Morris water maze method. The expression of Aβ1-42 proteins, the intestinal barrier function proteins occludin and P-glycoprotein (P-gp), and the inflammatory factors NF-κB, TLR2, and IL-18 was determined by immunohistochemistry. The gut microbiome was analyzed by 16SrRNA high-throughput sequencing. After administering d-gal and l-glu, the escape latency increased (p < .01), and the times of crossing the platform decreased (p < .01). These changes were greater in the combined administration of d-gal and l-glu (p < .01). The expression of Aβ1-42 was higher in the perinuclear region of the cerebral cortex (p < .01) and intestinal cell (p < .05). There was a positive correlation between the cerebral cortex and intestinal tissue. Moreover, the expression of NF-κB, TLR2, IL-18, and P-gp was higher in the intestine (p < .05), while the expression of occludin and the diversity of gut microbes were lower, which altered the biological barrier of intestinal mucosal cells. This study indicated that d-gal and l-glu could induce cognitive impairment, increase the expression of Aβ1-42 in the cerebral cortex and intestinal tissue, decrease the gut microbial diversity, and alter the expression of inflammatory factors in the mucosal intestines. The dysbacteriosis may produce inflammatory cytokines to modulate neurotransmission, causing the pathogenesis of cognitive impairment. This study provides a theoretical basis to explore the mechanism of learning and memory impairment through the interaction of microbes in the gut and the brain.

Application of glutamic acid improved As tolerance in aromatic rice at early growth stage

To alleviate the arsenic (As) toxicity in aromatic rice, a hydroponic experiment of two As concentrations (0 and 100 μM sodium arsenite: A0, A1), three glutamic acid (Glu) concentrations (0, 100, and 500 μM l-glutamic acid: G0, G1, and G2) with Xiangyaxiangzhan and Meixiangzhan 2 was conducted. Results showed that the root As content were increased under A1G2 but reduced under A1G1 for Xiangyaxiangzhan as compared with A1G0. A decrement of As was transported from root to shoot caused by up-regulated OsABCC1 relative expression in Meixiangzhan 2. Likewise, As stress enhanced the H₂O₂ and malondialdehyde content, resulting in the impaired cell wall observed by transmission electron microscopy. However, compared with A1G0, the superoxide dismutase activity, ascorbic acid, glutathione, proline, and soluble sugar content were increased under A1G1. Additionally, arsenate reductase, monodehydroascorbate reductase activity, Glu, proline, and soluble sugar content were found positively associated with the As accumulation. Further, the metabolome analysis indicated that the pathway of amino acid and arginine biosynthesis were notably enriched after Glu application. Generally, 100 μM Glu application was the better treatment to enhance As tolerance in aromatic rice through up-regulating amino acid biosynthesis with increasing antioxidants and osmolytes to scavenge excessive reactive oxygen species.

Synergistic Effect of Kokumi-Active γ-Glutamyl Peptides and l-Glutamate on Enhancing Umami Sensation and Stimulating Cholecystokinin Secretion via T1R1/T1R3 Activation in STC-1 Cells

This study aimed to investigate the synergistic effect of γ-glutamyl peptides (γEL, γEV, and γEγEV) and l-glutamate (MSG) on the activation of the umami receptor (T1R1/T1R3) in relation to enhanced umami taste and promoted cholecystokinin (CCK) secretion. The synergy of γ-glutamyl peptides and MSG (1-15 mM, 1:1) caused a significant increase in both the umami taste score by 0.218 ± 0.015-1.216 ± 0.031 times and the CCK secretion by 41.41 ± 6.46-201.16 ± 12.91% when compared to the group treated with individual MSG. The increase in CCK secretion promoted by γ-glutamyl peptides was only reduced by 11.54 ± 0.01-45.65 ± 3.58% after adding yjr CaSR inhibitor (NPS 2143), implying that there were other receptors besides CaSR involved in the stimulation of CCK secretion. The mixture of γEγEV and MSG synergistically increased the intracellular calcium release by 111.26 ± 11.94-135.28 ± 16.60% in STC-1 and 108.47 ± 7.89-152.33 ± 26.26% in HEK 293 compared to MSG. The protein expression for T1R1/T1R3 was increased, indicating that the mixture can activate T1R1/T1R3. The amino acids V277, S147, and D190 of T1R3 can be critical for the binding of γEγEV to T1R3. This is the first report on the synergistic effect of taste-active substances on taste sensation and hormone release via taste receptor activation.

Swimming training reduces iNOS expression, augments the antioxidant defense and reduces sympathetic responsiveness in the rostral ventrolateral medulla of normotensive male rats

We sought to investigate whether RVLM iNOS activity and oxidative profile may participate in the reduction of sympathetic responsiveness in swimming trained normotensive rats. Sedentary (S) and swimming trained (T) Wistar male rats chronically instrumented with an arterial catheter and guide cannula into the RVLM were submitted to continuous pressure and heart rate (HR) recordings and determination of autonomic control (power spectral analysis) before and after unilateral RVLM iNOS inhibition (aminoguanidine, 250 pmol/100 nL). Other S and T rats received local l-glutamate microinjection (5 nmol/100 nL). In separate S and T groups not submitted to brainstem cannulation, fresh bilateral RVLM punchs were collected for iNOS gene expression (qPCR); reduced glutathione and lipid peroxidation quantification (spectrophotometry); iron-reducing antioxidant (FRAP) and 2,2'-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid) radical cation (ABTS˙⁺) scavenger assays. iNOS gene expression was confirmed in fixed RVLM slices (immunofluorescence). T rats exhibited resting bradycardia, lower sympathovagal balance, reduced RVLM iNOS gene/protein expression and higher antioxidant capacity. Decreased iNOS expression was positively correlated with reduced HR. Pressor and tachycardic response to l-Glutamate were smaller in T rats. Aminoguanidine microinjection reduced sympathetic activity in S rats but did not change it in T rats expressing reduced RVLM iNOS content. Our data indicate that iNOS, expressed in the RVLM of normotensive male rats, has tonic effects on sympathetic activity and that swimming training is an efficient tool to reduce iNOS expression and augment the antioxidant defense, thus reducing glutamatergic responsiveness and sympathetic drive to cardiovascular effectors.

N,N'-Diphenylthiourea electrochemical sensor for the detection of l-glutamate and Aspartate in beef

This study was conducted to design an electrochemical sensor for detection of l-glutamate (L-Glu) and Aspartate (Asp), which contribute largely to the umami taste of beef. Using N, N'-diphenylthiourea (DPTU), polypyrrole (PPy), and polyvinyl chloride (PVC), a composite electrode (DPTU/PVC/PPy/Pt) was prepared for rapidly electrochemical detection of l-Glu and Asp. The surface morphology of the synthesized functionalized electrode was characterized by Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM). Potentials of umami amino acids accounted for 97.8%, while six interferential amino acids existed. The linear correlation between the content of l-Glu and Asp in beef broth was studied under different treatment conditions. The sensor compared with an amino acid analyzer well detected the contents of l-Glu and Asp in beef broths, with a coefficient of 0.991 in Pearson correlation analysis and an accuracy of 88.9%. The proposed electrochemical sensor showed good concurrence with previously reported methods and was effectively employed for the quantification of l- Glu and Asp in beef. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: The sensor exhibits the good performance with high stability and high accuracy. And it is a potential sensing platform with good reproducibility, making the proposed method suitable and reliable for routine analysis of L-Glu and Asp in beef. This method was proved promising for quantitative detecting amino acids in beef.

CRISPR/Cas12a Mediated Genome Editing To Introduce Amino Acid Substitutions into the Mechanosensitive Channel MscCG of Corynebacterium glutamicum

Against the background of a growing demand for the implementation of environmentally friendly production processes, microorganisms are engineered for the large-scale biosynthesis of chemicals, fuels, or food and feed additives from sustainable resources. Since strain development is expensive and time-consuming, continuous improvement of molecular tools for the genetic modification of the microbial production hosts is absolutely vital. Recently, the CRISPR/Cas12a technology for the engineering of Corynebacterium glutamicum as an important platform organism for industrial amino acid production has been introduced. Here, this system was advanced by designing an easy-to-construct crRNA delivery vector using simple oligonucleotides. In combination with a C. glutamicum strain engineered for the chromosomal expression of the β-galactosidase-encoding lacZ gene, this new plasmid was used to investigate CRISPR/Cas12a targeting and editing at various positions relative to the PAM site. Finally, we used this system to perform codon saturation mutagenesis at critical positions in the mechanosensitive channel MscCG to identify new gain-of-function mutations for increased l-glutamate export. The mutations obtained can be explained by particular demands of the channel on its immediate lipid environment to allow l-glutamate efflux.

Pharmacological Discrimination of Effects of MK801 on Thalamocortical, Mesothalamic, and Mesocortical Transmissions

N-methyl-d-aspartate/glutamate receptor (NMDAR) is one of the major voltage-sensitive ligand-gated cation channel. Several noncompetitive NMDAR antagonists contribute to pathophysiology of schizophrenia and mood disorders; however, the effects of inhibition of NMDAR on several transmitter system have not been well clarified. Thus, this study determined the selective NMDAR antagonist, MK801 (dizocilpine), on thalamocortical, mesothalamic, and mesocortical transmissions associated with l-glutamate, GABA, serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine using multiprobe microdialysis. Perfusion with MK801 into the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) increased and decreased respective regional releases of monoamine and GABA without affecting l-glutamate. The mPFC MK801-induced monoamine release is generated by the regional GABAergic disinhibition. Perfusion with MK801 into the reticular thalamic nucleus (RTN) decreased GABA release in the mediodorsal thalamic nucleus (MDTN) but increased releases of l-glutamate and catecholamine without affecting serotonin in the mPFC. The RTN MK801-induced l-glutamate release in the mPFC was generated by GABAergic disinhibition in the MDTN, but RTN MK801-induced catecholamine release in the mPFC was generated by activation of α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionate/glutamate receptor (AMPAR) which received l-glutamate release from thalamocortical glutamatergic terminals in the mPFC. Perfusion with MK801 into the dorsal raphe nucleus (DRN) decreased GABA release in the DRN but selectively increased serotonin release in the MDTN and mPFC. These DRN MK801-induced serotonin releases in the both mPFC and MDTN were also generated by GABAergic disinhibition in the DRN. These results indicate that the GABAergic disinhibition induced by NMDAR inhibition plays important roles in the MK801-induced releases of l-glutamate and monoamine in thalamic nuclei and cortex.

The Emerging Role of l-Glutamine in Cardiovascular Health and Disease

Emerging evidence indicates that l-glutamine (Gln) plays a fundamental role in cardiovascular physiology and pathology. By serving as a substrate for the synthesis of DNA, ATP, proteins, and lipids, Gln drives critical processes in vascular cells, including proliferation, migration, apoptosis, senescence, and extracellular matrix deposition. Furthermore, Gln exerts potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects in the circulation by inducing the expression of heme oxygenase-1, heat shock proteins, and glutathione. Gln also promotes cardiovascular health by serving as an l-arginine precursor to optimize nitric oxide synthesis. Importantly, Gln mitigates numerous risk factors for cardiovascular disease, such as hypertension, hyperlipidemia, glucose intolerance, obesity, and diabetes. Many studies demonstrate that Gln supplementation protects against cardiometabolic disease, ischemia-reperfusion injury, sickle cell disease, cardiac injury by inimical stimuli, and may be beneficial in patients with heart failure. However, excessive shunting of Gln to the Krebs cycle can precipitate aberrant angiogenic responses and the development of pulmonary arterial hypertension. In these instances, therapeutic targeting of the enzymes involved in glutaminolysis such as glutaminase-1, Gln synthetase, glutamate dehydrogenase, and amino acid transaminase has shown promise in preclinical models. Future translation studies employing Gln delivery approaches and/or glutaminolysis inhibitors will determine the success of targeting Gln in cardiovascular disease.

Structural and functional studies of Spr1654: an essential aminotransferase in teichoic acid biosynthesis in Streptococcus pneumoniae

Spr1654 from Streptococcus pneumoniae plays a key role in the production of unusual sugars, presumably functioning as a pyridoxal-5′-phosphate (PLP)-dependent aminotransferase. Spr1654 was predicted to catalyse the transferring of amino group to form the amino sugar 2-acetamido-4-amino-2, 4, 6-trideoxygalactose moiety (AATGal), representing a crucial step in biosynthesis of teichoic acids in S. pneumoniae. We have determined the crystal structures of the apo-, PLP- and PMP-bound forms of Spr1654. Spr1654 forms a homodimer, in which each monomer contains one active site. Using spectrophotometry and based on absorbance profiles of PLP- and PMP-formed enzymes, our results indicate that l-glutamate is most likely the preferred amino donor. Structural superposition of the crystal structures of Spr1654 on previously determined structures of other sugar aminotransferases in complex with glutamate and/or UDP-activated sugar allowed us to identify key Spr1654 residues for ligand binding and catalysis. The crystal structures of Spr1654 and in complex with PLP and PMP can direct the future rational design of novel therapeutic compounds against S. pneumoniae.

Effects of acute and sub-chronic administrations of guanfacine on catecholaminergic transmissions in the orbitofrontal cortex

The selective α2A adrenoceptor agonist guanfacine reduces hyperactivity and improves cognitive impairment in patients with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The major mechanisms of guanfacine have been considered to involve activation of postsynaptic α2A adrenoceptor in frontal pyramidal neurons. However, the effects of chronic guanfacine administration on catecholaminergic transmissions associated with the orbitofrontal cortex (OFC) remain unclear. To explore the mechanisms of action of guanfacine on catecholaminergic transmission, the effects of its acute local or sub-chronic systemic administration on catecholamine release within pathways from locus coeruleus (LC) to OFC and reticular thalamic nucleus (RTN), from RTN to mediodorsal thalamic nucleus (MDTN), and from MDTN to OFC were determined using multi-probe microdialysis with ultra-high performance liquid chromatography. Acute OFC local administration of guanfacine did not affect catecholamine release in OFC. Acute LC local and sub-chronic systemic administrations of guanfacine reduced norepinephrine release in LC, OFC and RTN, and also reduced GABA release in MDTN, whereas AMPA-induced (perfusion with AMPA into NDTN) releases of l-glutamate, norepinephrine and dopamine in OFC were enhanced by sub-chronic systemic guanfacine administration. This study identified that catecholaminergic transmission is composed of three pathways: direct noradrenergic and co-releasing catecholaminergic LC-OFC pathways and intermediate LC-OFC (LC-RTN-MDTN-OFC) pathway. We demonstrated the dual actions of guanfacine on catecholaminergic transmission: attenuation of direct noradrenergic LC-OFC transmission at the resting stage and enhancement of direct co-releasing catecholaminergic LC-OFC transmission via GABAergic disinhibition in the intermediate LC-OFC pathway. These dual actions of guanfacine probably contribute to clinical actions of guanfacine against ADHD and its comorbid symptoms. This article is part of the Special Issue entitled 'Current status of the neurobiology of aggression and impulsivity'.

Catalytic and ionic cross-linking actions of l-glutamate salt for the modification of cellulose by 1,2,3,4-butanetetracarboxylic acid

The sodium l-glutamate is reported as an efficient catalyst for the cross-linking between 1,2,3,4-butanetetracarboxylic acid (BTCA) and cellulose. Results presented ester absorbance of the treated fabrics strongly increased in the presence of the homemade l-glutamate salt, a mixture of l-glutamic acid (LGA) and NaOH at a specific ratio. Importantly, anti-wrinkle properties of the treated fabrics were significantly improved. Based on the relative concentration calculation, l-glutamate promoted the reaction of BTCA with cellulose by accelerating the formation of BTCA anhydrides and the esterification of anhydrides with cellulose. Besides, the improved anti-wrinkle property was partially attributed to the fact that the generated LGA reacted with cellulose and formed ionic cross-linking networks through amino groups with carboxyl groups in BTCA, which was confirmed by the Fourier transform infrared spectra and the computational calculations. Through detailed comparisons, l-glutamate catalyzed fabrics showed as good durability as sodium hypophosphite, indicating a possible alternative for phosphorus-containing catalysts.

Gender-specific desensitization of group I metabotropic glutamate receptors after maternal l-glutamate intake during lactation

In the present work we have studied the effect of maternal intake of l-Glutamate (l-Glu) (1 g/L) during lactation on group I mGluR transduction pathway in brain plasma membrane from 15 days-old neonates. Results obtained have shown that maternal l-glutamate intake did not significantly affect neither weights of pups nor negative geotaxis reflex, an index of neurobehavioral development, but increased l-Glu plasma level in both male and female neonates. In male neonates, maternal l-Glu intake evoked a loss of mGluR₁ whereas no variation on mGluR₅ was observed as revealed by Western-blotting assay. The loss of mGlu₁R was accompanied by a decrease on l-Glu-stimulated phospholipase C activity suggesting, therefore, a loss of group I mGluR functionality. Concerning female neonates, no variations were detected neither mGluR₁ nor mGluR₅ and group I mGluR functionality was also preserved.

Mechanism and properties of positive allosteric modulation of N-methyl-d-aspartate receptors by 6-alkyl 2-naphthoic acid derivatives

The theory that N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) hypofunction is responsible for the symptoms of schizophrenia is well supported by many pharmacological and genetic studies. Accordingly, positive allosteric modulators (PAMs) that augment NMDAR signaling may be useful for treating schizophrenia. Previously we have identified several NMDAR PAMs containing a carboxylic acid attached to naphthalene, phenanthrene, or coumarin ring systems. In this study, we describe several functional and mechanistic properties of UBP684, a 2-naphthoic acid derivative, which robustly potentiates agonist responses at each of the four GluN1a/GluN2 receptors and at neuronal NMDARs. UBP684 increases the maximal l-glutamate/glycine response while having minor subunit-specific effects on agonist potency. PAM binding is independent of agonist binding, and PAM activity is independent of membrane voltage, redox state, and the GluN1 exon 5 N-terminal insert. UBP684 activity is, however, markedly pH-dependent, with greater potentiation occurring at lower pHs and inhibitory activity at pH 8.4. UBP684 increases channel open probability (P_o) and slows receptor deactivation time upon removal of l-glutamate, but not glycine. The structurally related PAM, UBP753, reproduced most of these findings, but did not prolong agonist removal deactivation time. Studies using cysteine mutants to lock the GluN1 and GluN2 ligand-binding domains (LBDs) in the agonist-bound states indicate that PAM potentiation requires GluN2 LBD conformational flexibility. Together, these findings suggest that UBP684 and UBP753 stabilize the GluN2 LBD in an active conformation and thereby increase P_o. Thus, UBP684 and UBP753 may serve as lead compounds for developing agents to enhance NMDAR activity in disorders associated with NMDAR hypofunction.

Synthesis and photodynamic activity of unsymmetrical A3B tetraarylporphyrins functionalized with l-glutamate and their Zn(II) and Cu(II) metal complex derivatives

Four novel unsymmetrical A3B porphyrins 1, 2, 3 and 4 were synthesized following Lindsey procedure. Porphyrins 3 and 4 include one and three l-glutamate groups, respectively, and all porphyrins were metallated with Zn(II) (1a-4a) or Cu(II) (1b-4b). Porphyrins and metalloporphyrins presented values of singlet oxygen quantum yields (ΦD) ranging from 0.21 to 0.67. The tetraaryl derivatives in this study showed phototoxicity in SiHa cells with IC50 values ranging from <0.01 to 6.56±0.11μM, the metalloporphyrin 4a showed the lowest IC50 value. Comparing the phototoxic activity between all porphyrins, functionalization of porphyrins with glutamate increased 100 times phototoxic activity (1 (IC50 4.81±0.34μM) vs. 3 (IC50 0.04±0.02μM) and 2 (IC50 5.19±0.42μM) vs. 4 (IC50 0.05±0.01μM)). This increased activity could be attributed to reduced hydrophobicity and increased ΦΔ, given by functionalization with l-glutamate. Metalloporphyrins 3a (IC50 0.04±0.01μM) and 4a (IC50<0.01μM) presented the best values ​​of phototoxic activity. Therefore, functionalization and zinc metalation increased the phototoxic activity. SiHa cells treated with porphyrins 3, 4, 3a and 4a at a final concentration of 10μM, showed increased activity of caspase-3 enzyme compared to the negative control; indicating the induction of apoptosis. Differential gene expression pattern in SiHa cells was determined; treatments with metalloporphyrins 4a and 4b were performed, respectively, comparing the expression with untreated control. Treatments in both cases showed similar gene expression pattern in upregulated genes, since they share about 25 biological pathways and a large number of genes. According to the new photophysical properties related to the structural improvement and phototoxic activity, these molecules may have the potential application as photosensitizers in the photodynamic therapy.

Signaling molecules of the CNS as targets of autoimmunity

Ion channels and receptors are the fundamental basis for neuronal communication in the nervous system and are important targets of autoimmunity. The different neuronal domains contain a unique repertoire of voltage-gated Na(+) (Nav), Ca(2+) (Cav), and K(+) (Kv), as well as other K(+) channels and hyperpolarization-gated cyclic nucleotide-regulated channels. The distinct ion channel distribution defines the electrophysiologic properties of different subtypes of neurons. The different neuronal compartments also express neurotransmitter-gated ion channels, or ionotropic receptors, as well as G protein-coupled receptors. Of particular relevance in the central nervous system are excitatory glutamate receptors and inhibitory γ-aminobutyric acid and glycine receptors. The interactions among different ion channels and receptors regulate neuronal excitability; frequency and pattern of firing of action potentials (AP); propagation of the AP along the axon; neurotransmitter release at synaptic terminals; AP backpropagation from the axon initial segment to the somatodendritic domain; dendritic integration of synaptic signals; and use-dependent plasticity.

Glutamate formation via the leucine-to-glutamate pathway of rat pancreas

The leucine-to-glutamate (Leu→Glu) pathway, which metabolizes the carbon atoms of l-leucine to form l-glutamate, was studied by incubation of rat tissue segments with l-[U-(14)C]leucine and estimation of the [(14)C]glutamate formed. Metabolism of the leucine carbon chain occurs in most rat tissues, but maximal activity of the Leu→Glu pathway for glutamate formation is limited to the thoracic aorta and pancreas. In rat aorta, the Leu→Glu pathway functions to relax the underlying smooth muscle; its functions in the pancreas are unknown. This report characterizes the Leu→Glu pathway of rat pancreas and develops methods to examine its functions. Pancreatic segments effect net formation of glutamate on incubation with l-leucine, l-glutamine, or a mix of 18 other plasma amino acids at their concentrations in normal rat plasma. Glutamate formed from leucine remains mainly in the tissue, whereas that from glutamine enters the medium. The pancreatic Leu→Glu pathway uses the leucine carbons for net glutamate formation; the α-amino group is not used; the stoichiometry is as follows: 1 mol of leucine yields 2 mol of glutamate (2 leucine carbons per glutamate) plus 2 mol of CO2. Comparison of the Leu→Glu pathway in preparations of whole pancreatic segments, isolated acini, and islets of Langerhans localizes it in the acini; relatively high activity is found in cultures of the AR42J cell line and very little in the INS-1 832/13 cell line. Pancreatic tissue glutamate concentration is homeostatically regulated in the range of ∼1-3 μmol/g wet wt. l-Valine and leucine ethyl, benzyl, and tert-butyl esters inhibit the Leu→Glu pathway without decreasing tissue total glutamate.

Microinjection of l-glutamate into the nucleus ambiguus partially inhibits gastric motility through the NMDA receptor - nitric oxide pathway

We have previously reported that both l-glutamate (l-Glu) and nitric oxide (NO) modulate gastric motility in the nucleus ambiguus (NA). The aim of this study is to explore the potential correlation between the l-Glu and NO. A latex balloon connected to a pressure transducer was inserted into the pylorus through the fundus of anesthetized male Wistar rats to continuously record changes in gastric smooth muscle contractile curves. Pretreatment with the NO-synthase inhibitor N-nitro-l-arginine methylester (l-NAME) did not completely abolish the inhibitory effect of l-Glu on gastric motility, but intravenous injection of the ganglionic blocker hexamethonium bromide (Hb) did. By using a specific N-methyl-d-aspartic acid (NMDA) receptor antagonist, we blocked the inhibitory effect of the NO-donor sodium nitroprusside (SNP) on gastric motility. These results suggest that microinjections of l-Glu into the NA inhibits gastric motility by activating the cholinergic preganglionic neurons, partially through the NMDA receptor - NO pathway.

Benzophenanthridine alkaloid, piperonyl butoxide and (S)-methoprene action at the cannabinoid-1 receptor (CB1-receptor) pathway of mouse brain: Interference with [(3)H]CP55940 and [(3)H]SR141716A binding and modification of WIN55212-2-dependent inhibition of synaptosomal l-glutamate release

Benzophenanthridine alkaloids (chelerythrine and sanguinarine) inhibited binding of [(3)H]SR141716A to mouse brain membranes (IC50s: <1µM). Piperonyl butoxide and (S)-methoprene were less potent (IC50s: 21 and 63µM respectively). Benzophenanthridines and piperonyl butoxide were more selective towards brain CB1 receptors versus spleen CB2 receptors. All compounds reduced Bmax of [(3)H]SR141716A binding to CB1 receptors, but only methoprene and piperonyl butoxide increased Kd (3-5-fold). Benzophenanthridines increased the Kd of [(3)H]CP55940 binding (6-fold), but did not alter Bmax. (S)-methoprene increased the Kd of [(3)H]CP55940 binding (by almost 4-fold) and reduced Bmax by 60%. Piperonyl butoxide lowered the Bmax of [(3)H]CP55940 binding by 50%, but did not influence Kd. All compounds reduced [(3)H]SR141716A and [(3)H]CP55940 association with CB1 receptors. Combined with a saturating concentration of SR141716A, only piperonyl butoxide and (S)-methoprene increased dissociation of [(3)H]SR141716A above that of SR141716A alone. Only piperonyl butoxide increased dissociation of [(3)H]CP55940 to a level greater than CP55940 alone. Binding results indicate predominantly allosteric components to the study compounds action. 4-Aminopyridine-(4-AP-) evoked release of l-glutamate from synaptosomes was partially inhibited by WIN55212-2, an effect completely neutralized by AM251, (S)-methoprene and piperonyl butoxide. With WIN55212-2 present, benzophenanthridines enhanced 4-AP-evoked l-glutamate release above 4-AP alone. Modulatory patterns of l-glutamate release (with WIN-55212-2 present) align with previous antagonist/inverse agonist profiling based on [(35)S]GTPγS binding. Although these compounds exhibit lower potencies compared to many classical CB1 receptor inhibitors, they may have potential to modify CB1-receptor-dependent behavioral/physiological outcomes in the whole animal.

Effects of hypocretin and norepinephrine interaction in bed nucleus of the stria terminalis on arterial pressure

Forebrain neuronal circuits containing hypocretin-1 (hcrt-1) and norepinephrine (NE) are important components of central arousal-related processes. Recently, these two systems have been shown to have an overlapping distribution within the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BST), a limbic structure activated by stressful challenges, and which functions to adjust arterial pressure (AP) and heart rate (HR) to the stressor. However, whether hcrt-1 and NE interact in BST to alter cardiovascular function is unknown. Experiments were done in urethane-α-chloralose anesthetized, paralyzed, and artificially ventilated male Wistar rats to investigate the effect of hcrt-1 and NE on the cardiovascular responses elicited by l-glutamate (Glu) stimulation of BST neurons. Microinjections of hcrt-1, NE or tyramine into BST attenuated the decrease in AP and HR to Glu stimulation of BST. Additionally, combined injections of hcrt-1 with NE or tyramine did not elicit a greater attenuation than either compound alone. Furthermore, injections into BST of the α2-adrenergic receptor (α2-AR) antagonist yohimbine, but not the α1-AR antagonist 2-{[β-(4-hydroxyphenyl)ethyl]aminomethyl}-1-tetralone hydrochloride, blocked both the hcrt-1 and NE-induced inhibition of the BST cardiovascular depressors responses. Finally, injections into BST of the GABAA receptor antagonist bicuculline, but not the GABAB receptor antagonist phaclofen, blocked the hcrt-1 and NE attenuation of the BST Glu-induced depressor and bradycardia responses. These data suggest that hcrt-1 effects in BST are mediated by NE neurons, and hcrt-1 likely acts to facilitate the synaptic release of NE. NE neurons, acting through α2-AR may activate Gabaergic neurons in BST, which in turn through the activation of GABAA receptors inhibit a BST sympathoinhibitory pathway. Taken together, these data suggest that hcrt-1 pathways to BST through their interaction with NE and Gabaergic neurons may function in the coordination of cardiovascular responses associated with different behavioral states.

Purinergic and glutamatergic interactions in the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus modulate sympathetic outflow

P2X receptors are expressed on ventrolateral medulla projecting paraventricular nucleus (PVN) neurons. Here, we investigate the role of adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP) in modulating sympathetic nerve activity (SNA) at the level of the PVN. We used an in situ arterially perfused rat preparation to determine the effect of P2 receptor activation and the putative interaction between purinergic and glutamatergic neurotransmitter systems within the PVN on lumbar SNA (LSNA). Unilateral microinjection of ATP into the PVN induced a dose-related increase in the LSNA (1 nmol: 38 ± 6 %, 2.5 nmol: 72 ± 7 %, 5 nmol: 96 ±13 %). This increase was significantly attenuated by blockade of P2 receptors (pyridoxalphosphate-6-azophenyl-20,40-disulphonic acid, PPADS) and glutamate receptors (kynurenic acid, KYN) or a combination of both. The increase in LSNA elicited by L-glutamate microinjection into the PVN was not affected by a previous injection of PPADS. Selective blockade of non-N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors (6-cyano-7-nitroquinoxaline-2,3-dione disodium salt, CNQX), but not N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors (NMDA) receptors (DL-2-amino-5-phosphonopentanoic acid, AP5), attenuated the ATP-induced sympathoexcitatory effects at the PVN level. Taken together, our data show that purinergic neurotransmission within the PVN is involved in the control of SNA via P2 receptor activation. Moreover, we show an interaction between P2 receptors and non-NMDA glutamate receptors in the PVN suggesting that these functional interactions might be important in the regulation of sympathetic outflow.

Phytoceramide shows neuroprotection and ameliorates scopolamine-induced memory impairment

The function and the role phytoceramide (PCER) and phytosphingosine (PSO) in the central nervous system has not been well studied. This study was aimed at investigating the possible roles of PCER and PSO in glutamate-induced neurotoxicity in cultured neuronal cells and memory function in mice. Phytoceramide showed neuro-protective activity in the glutamate-induced toxicity in cultured cortical neuronal cells. Neither phytosphingosine nor tetraacetylphytosphingosine (TAPS) showed neuroproective effects in neuronal cells. PCER (50 mg/kg, p.o.) recovered the scopolamine-induced reduction in step-through latency in the passive avoidance test; however, PSO did not modulate memory function on this task. The ameliorating effects of PCER on spatial memory were confirmed by the Morris water maze test. In conclusion, through behavioral and neurochemical experimental results, it was demonstrated that central administration of PCER produces amelioration of memory impairment. These results suggest that PCER plays an important role in neuroprotection and memory enhancement and PCER could be a potential new therapeutic agent for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease.

Inducible expression and pharmacology of the human excitatory amino acid transporter 2 subtype of L-glutamate transporter

1. In this study we have examined the use of the ecdysone-inducible mammalian expression system (Invitrogen) for the regulation of expression of the predominant L-glutamate transporter EAAT2 (Excitatory Amino Acid Transporter) in HEK 293 cells. 2. HEK 293 cells which were stably transformed with the regulatory vector pVgRXR (EcR 293 cells) were used for transfection of the human EAAT2 cDNA using the inducible vector pIND and a clone designated HEK/EAAT2 was selected for further characterization. 3. Na+-dependent L-glutamate uptake activity (3.2 pmol min-1 mg-1) was observed in EcR 293 cells and this was increased approximately 2 fold in the uninduced HEK/EAAT2 cells, indicating a low level of basal EAAT2 activity in the absence of exogenous inducing agent. Exposure of HEK/EAAT2 cells to the ecdysone analogue Ponasterone A (10 microM for 24 h) resulted in a > or = 10 fold increase in the Na+-dependent activity. 4. L-glutamate uptake into induced HEK/EAAT2 cells followed first-order Michaelis-Menten kinetics and Eadie-Hofstee transformation of the saturable uptake data produced estimates of kinetic parameters as follows; Km 52.7+/-7.5 microM, Vmax 3.8+/-0.9 nmol min-1 mg-1 protein. 5. The pharmacological profile of the EAAT2 subtype was characterized using a series of L-glutamate transport inhibitors and the rank order of inhibitory potency was similar to that described previously for the rat homologue GLT-1 and in synaptosomal preparations from rat cortex. 6. Addition of the EAAT2 modulator arachidonic acid resulted in an enhancement (155+/-5% control in the presence of 30 microM) of the L-glutamate transport capacity in the induced HEK/EAAT2 cells. 7. This study demonstrates that the expression of EAAT2 can be regulated in a mammalian cell line using the ecdysone-inducible mammalian expression system.