Amitriptyline inhibits bronchoconstriction and directly promotes dilatation of the airways

INTRODUCTION

The standard therapy for bronchial asthma consists of combinations of acute (short-acting ß2-sympathomimetics) and, depending on the severity of disease, additional long-term treatment (including inhaled glucocorticoids, long-acting ß2-sympathomimetics, anticholinergics, anti-IL-4R antibodies). The antidepressant amitriptyline has been identified as a relevant down-regulator of immunological TH2-phenotype in asthma, acting-at least partially-through inhibition of acid sphingomyelinase (ASM), an enzyme involved in sphingolipid metabolism. Here, we investigated the non-immunological role of amitriptyline on acute bronchoconstriction, a main feature of airway hyperresponsiveness in asthmatic disease.

METHODS

After stimulation of precision cut lung slices (PCLS) from mice (wildtype and ASM-knockout), rats, guinea pigs and human lungs with mediators of bronchoconstriction (endogenous and exogenous acetylcholine, methacholine, serotonin, endothelin, histamine, thromboxane-receptor agonist U46619 and leukotriene LTD4, airway area was monitored in the absence of or with rising concentrations of amitriptyline. Airway dilatation was also investigated in rat PCLS by prior contraction induced by methacholine. As bronchodilators for maximal relaxation, we used IBMX (PDE inhibitor) and salbutamol (ß2-adrenergic agonist) and compared these effects with the impact of amitriptyline treatment. Isolated perfused lungs (IPL) of wildtype mice were treated with amitriptyline, administered via the vascular system (perfusate) or intratracheally as an inhalation. To this end, amitriptyline was nebulized via pariboy in-vivo and mice were ventilated with the flexiVent setup immediately after inhalation of amitriptyline with monitoring of lung function.

RESULTS

Our results show amitriptyline to be a potential inhibitor of bronchoconstriction, induced by exogenous or endogenous (EFS) acetylcholine, serotonin and histamine, in PCLS from various species. The effects of endothelin, thromboxane and leukotrienes could not be blocked. In acute bronchoconstriction, amitriptyline seems to act ASM-independent, because ASM-deficiency (Smdp1-/-) did not change the effect of acetylcholine on airway contraction. Systemic as well as inhaled amitriptyline ameliorated the resistance of IPL after acetylcholine provocation. With the flexiVent setup, we demonstrated that the acetylcholine-induced rise in central and tissue resistance was much more marked in untreated animals than in amitriptyline-treated ones. Additionally, we provide clear evidence that amitriptyline dilatates pre-contracted airways as effectively as a combination of typical bronchodilators such as IBMX and salbutamol.

CONCLUSION

Amitriptyline is a drug of high potential, which inhibits acute bronchoconstriction and induces bronchodilatation in pre-contracted airways. It could be one of the first therapeutic agents in asthmatic disease to have powerful effects on the TH2-allergic phenotype and on acute airway hyperresponsiveness with bronchoconstriction, especially when inhaled.

Selective inhibition of neurogenic, but not agonist-induced contractions by phospholipase A2 inhibitors points to presynaptic phospholipase A2 functions in contractile neurotransmission to human prostate smooth muscle

BACKGROUND

Phospholipases A2 (PLA2 ) may be involved in α1 -adrenergic contraction by formation of thromboxane A2 in different smooth muscle types. However, whether this mechanism occurs with α1 -adrenergic contractions of the prostate, is still unknown. While α1 -adrenoceptor antagonists are the first line option for medical treatment of voiding symptoms in benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), improvements are limited, probably by nonadrenergic contractions including thromboxane A2 . Here, we examined effects of PLA2 inhibitors on contractions of human prostate tissues.

METHODS

Prostate tissues were obtained from radical prostatectomy. Contractions were induced by electric field stimulation (EFS) and by α1 -adrenergic agonists in an organ bath, after application of the cytosolic PLA2 inhibitors ASB14780 and AACOCF3, the secretory PLA2 inhibitor YM26734, the leukotriene receptor antagonist montelukast, or of solvent to controls.

RESULTS

Frequency-dependent contractions of human prostate tissues induced by EFS were inhibited by 25% at 8 Hz, 38% at 16 Hz and 37% at 32 Hz by ASB14780 (1 µM), and by 32% at 16 Hz and 22% at 32 Hz by AACOCF3 (10 µM). None of both inhibitors affected contractions induced by noradrenaline, phenylephrine or methoxamine. YM26734 (3 µM) and montelukast (0.3 and 1 µM) neither affected EFS-induced contractions, nor contractions by α1 -adrenergic agonists, while all contractions were substantially inhibited by silodosin (100 nM).

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest presynaptic PLA2 functions in prostate smooth muscle contraction, while contractions induced by α1 -adrenergic agonists occur PLA2 -independent. Lacking sensitivity to montelukast excludes an involvement of PLA2 -derived leukotrienes in promotion of contractile neurotransmission.

Platelet thromboxane inhibition by low-dose aspirin in polycythemia vera: Ex vivo and in vivo measurements and in silico simulation

Low-dose aspirin is currently recommended for patients with polycythemia vera (PV), a myeloproliferative neoplasm with increased risk of arterial and venous thromboses. Based on aspirin pharmacodynamics in essential thrombocythemia, a twice-daily regimen is recommended for patients with PV deemed at particularly high thrombotic risk. We investigated the effects of low-dose aspirin on platelet cyclooxygenase activity and in vivo platelet activation in 49 patients with PV, as assessed by serum thromboxane (TX) B2 and urinary TXA2 /TXB2 metabolite (TXM) measurements, respectively. A previously described pharmacokinetic-pharmacodynamic in silico model was used to simulate the degree of platelet TXA2 inhibition by once-daily (q.d.) and twice-daily (b.i.d.) aspirin, and to predict the effect of missing an aspirin dose during q.d. and b.i.d. regimens. Serum TXB2 averaged 8.2 (1.6-54.7) ng/ml and significantly correlated with the platelet count (γ = 0.39) and urinary TXM (γ = 0.52) in multivariable analysis. One-third of aspirin-treated patients with PV displayed less-than-maximal platelet TXB2 inhibition, and were characterized by significantly higher platelet counts and platelet-count corrected serum TXB2 than those with adequate inhibition. Eight patients with PV were sampled again after 12 ± 4 months, and had reproducible serum TXB2 and urinary TXM values. The in silico model predicted complete inhibition of platelet-derived TXB2 by b.i.d. aspirin, a prediction verified in a patient with PV with the highest TXB2 value while on aspirin q.d. and treated short-term with a b.i.d. regimen. In conclusion, one in three patients with PV on low-dose aspirin display less-than-maximal inhibition of platelet TXA2 production. Serum TXB2 measurement can be a valuable option to guide precision dosing of antiplatelet therapy in patients with PV.

STIM/Orai Inhibition as a Strategy for Alleviating Diabetic Erectile Dysfunction Through Modulation of Rat and Human Penile Tissue Contractility and in vivo Potentiation of Erectile Responses

BACKGROUND

Stromal interaction molecule (STIM)/Orai calcium entry system appears to have a role in erectile dysfunction (ED) pathophysiology but its specific contribution to diabetic ED was not elucidated.

AIM

To evaluate STIM/Orai inhibition on functional alterations associated with diabetic ED in rat and human penile tissues and on in vivo erectile responses in diabetic rats.

METHODS

Rat corpus cavernosum (RCC) strips from nondiabetic (No DM) and streptozotocin-induced diabetic (DM) rats and human penile resistance arteries (HPRA) and corpus cavernosum (HCC) from ED patients undergoing penile prosthesis insertion were functionally evaluated in organ chambers and wire myographs. Erectile function in vivo in rats was assessed by intracavernosal pressure (ICP) responses to cavernous nerve electrical stimulation (CNES). Expression of STIM/Orai elements in HCC was determined by immunofluorescence and immunoblot.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Functional responses in RCC, HCC and HPRA and STIM/Orai protein expression in HCC. In vivo erectile responses to CNES.

RESULTS

Inhibition of Orai channels with YM-58483 (20 µM) significantly reduced adrenergic contractions in RCC but more effectively in DM. Thromboxane-induced and neurogenic contractions were reduced by STIM/Orai inhibition while defective endothelial, neurogenic and PDE5 inhibitor-induced relaxations were enhanced by YM-58483 (10 µM) in RCC from DM rats. In vivo, YM-58483 caused erections and attenuated diabetes-related impairment of erectile responses. YM-58483 potentiated the effects of PDE5 inhibition. In human tissues, STIM/Orai inhibition depressed adrenergic and thromboxane-induced contractions in ED patients more effectively in those with type 2 diabetes. Diabetes was associated with increased expression of Orai1 and Orai3 in ED patients.

CLINICAL TRANSLATION

Targeting STIM/Orai to alleviate diabetes-related functional alterations of penile vascular tissue could improve erectile function and potentiate therapeutic effects of PDE5 inhibitors in diabetic ED.

STRENGTHS AND LIMITATIONS

Improving effects of STIM/Orai inhibition on diabetes-related functional impairment was evidenced in vitro and in vivo in an animal model and validated in human tissues from ED patients. Functional findings were complemented with expression results. Main limitation was low numbers of human experiments due to limited human tissue availability.

CONCLUSIONS

STIM/Orai inhibition alleviated alterations of functional responses in vitro and improved erectile responses in vivo in diabetic rats, potentiating the effects of PDE5 inhibition. STIM/Orai inhibition was validated as a target to modulate functional alterations of human penile vascular tissue in diabetic ED where Orai1 and Orai3 channels were upregulated. STIM/Orai inhibition could be a potential therapeutic strategy to overcome poor response to conventional ED therapy in diabetic patients. Sevilleja-Ortiz A, El Assar M, García-Gómez B, et al. STIM/Orai Inhibition as a Strategy for Alleviating Diabetic Erectile Dysfunction Through Modulation of Rat and Human Penile Tissue Contractility and in vivo Potentiation of Erectile Responses. J Sex Med 2022;19:1733-1749.

The role of thromboxane prostanoid receptor signaling in gastric ulcer healing

The process of gastric ulcer healing includes cell migration, proliferation, angiogenesis and re-epithelialization. Platelets contain angiogenesis stimulating factors that induce angiogenesis. Thromboxane A2 (TXA2 ) not only induces platelet activity but also angiogenesis. This study investigated the role of TXA2 in gastric ulcer healing using TXA2 receptor knockout (TPKO) mice. Gastric ulcer healing was suppressed by treatment with the TXA2 synthase inhibitor OKY-046 and the TXA2 receptor antagonist S-1452 compared with vehicle-treated mice. TPKO showed delayed gastric ulcer healing compared with wild-type mice (WT). The number of microvessels and CD31 expression were lower in TPKO than in WT mice, and TPKO suppressed the expression of transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) and vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A) in areas around gastric ulcers. Immunofluorescence assays showed that TGF-β and VEGF-A co-localized with platelets. Gastric ulcer healing was significantly reduced in WT mice transplanted with TPKO compared with WT bone marrow. These results suggested that TP signalling on platelets facilitates gastric ulcer healing through TGF-β and VEGF-A.

Prostaglandin E2 sequentially activates E-prostanoid receptor-3 and thromboxane prostanoid receptor to evoke contraction and increase in resistance of the mouse renal vasculature

Although recognized to have an in vivo vasodepressor effect blunted by the vasoconstrictor effect of E-prostanoid receptor-3 (EP3), prostaglandin E₂ (PGE₂ ) evokes contractions of many vascular beds that are sensitive to antagonizing the thromboxane prostanoid receptor (TP). This study aimed to determine the direct effect of PGE₂ on renal arteries and/or the whole renal vasculature and how each of these two receptors is involved in the responses. Experiments were performed on isolated vessels and perfused kidneys of wild-type mice and/or mice with deficiency in TP (TP^-/- ), EP3 (EP3^-/- ), or both TP and EP3 (TP^-/- /EP3^-/- ). Here we show that PGE₂ (0.001-30 μM) evoked not only contraction of main renal arteries, but also a decrease of flow in perfused kidneys. EP3^-/- diminished the response to 0.001-0.3 μM PGE₂ , while TP^-/- reduced that to the prostanoid of higher concentrations. In TP^-/- /EP3^-/- vessels and perfused kidneys, PGE₂ did not evoke contraction but instead resulted in vasodilator responses. These results demonstrate that PGE₂ functions as an overall direct vasoconstrictor of the mouse renal vasculature with an effect reflecting the vasoconstrictor activities outweighing that of dilation. Also, our results suggest that EP3 dominates the vasoconstrictor effect of PGE₂ of low concentrations (≤0.001-0.3 μM), but its effect is further added by that of TP, which has a higher efficacy, although activated by higher concentrations (from 0.01 μM) of the same prostanoid PGE₂ .

Hyperglycemia Enhances Constriction of Retinal Venules via Activation of the Reverse-Mode Sodium-Calcium Exchanger

Diabetes is associated with hyperglycemia and impairment of retinal microvascular function. However, the impact of hyperglycemia on retinal venular constriction remains unknown. We examined retinal venular responsiveness to endogenous vasoconstrictors and the contribution of the reverse-mode sodium-calcium exchanger (NCX) to these responses during hyperglycemia. Retinal venules were isolated from pigs with streptozocin-induced diabetes (2 weeks, in vivo hyperglycemia) and age-matched control pigs for vasoreactivity and molecular studies. For in vitro hyperglycemia, vessels from euglycemic pigs were exposed to high glucose (25 mmol/L) for 2 h, and 5 mmol/L glucose served as the control. Constrictions of venules from euglycemic pigs to endothelin-1 (ET-1), thromboxane analog U46619, and norepinephrine were mediated by ET_A, thromboxane, and α₂-adrenergic receptors, respectively, and were insensitive to reverse-mode NCX blockade (KB-R7943). In vivo hyperglycemia enhanced these vasoconstrictions without altering respective receptor mRNA expression. Similarly, in vitro hyperglycemia augmented venular constrictions. Enhanced vasoconstrictions during hyperglycemia were prevented by KB-R7943, while mRNA expression of venular NCX isoforms was unaltered. In vivo hyperglycemia increased vitreous levels of ET-1 but not thromboxane B₂ In conclusion, both in vitro and in vivo hyperglycemia enhance retinal venular responses to endogenous vasoconstrictors by activating reverse-mode NCX. Therapies targeting this vascular molecule may alleviate retinal complications during diabetes.

Differential role for stromal interacting molecule 1 in the regulation of vascular function

We determined the in vivo role of stromal-interacting molecule 1 (STIM1) in the regulation of vascular function using endothelial cell (EC)- and smooth-muscle (SM)-specific knockout mice. Systolic blood pressure and glucose levels were similar in all mice (Stim1(SMC-/-), Stim1(SMC-/+), Stim1(EC-/-), Stim1(EC-/+)), but body weight was reduced in Stim1(EC-/-) and Stim1(SMC-/-) mice. The contraction of arteries in response to phenylephrine was significantly reduced in Stim1(SMC-/-) mice only. However, contraction to thromboxane and KCl was similar in all groups. The endothelium-dependent relaxation (EDR) was impaired in Stim1(EC-/+) and drastically reduced in Stim1(EC-/-) mice while the endothelium-independent vasorelaxation was similar among all groups. Acute downregulation of STIM1 in arteries reduced EDR and the contractile response to phenylephrine, while the contractile response to thromboxane was not affected. NADPH oxidase activity was increased only in Stim1(EC-/+) and Stim1(EC-/-) mice. Calcium (Ca(2+)) entry in endothelial cells stimulated with thrombin and histamine had the pharmacological features of store-operated Ca(2+) entry (SOCE) and was dependent on STIM1 expression. We conclude that STIM1 plays opposing roles in vascular smooth muscle vs. endothelial cells in the regulation of vascular reactivity.

Salvianolic acid A inhibits platelet activation and arterial thrombosis via inhibition of phosphoinositide 3-kinase

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Salvianolic acid A (SAA) is a water-soluble component from the root of Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge, a herb that is widely used for atherothrombotic disease treatment in Asian medicine. As platelets play pivotal roles in atherothrombogenesis, we studied the effect of SAA on platelet activation and its underlying mechanisms.

METHODS AND RESULTS

SAA dose-dependently inhibited platelet aggregation induced by ADP, thrombin, collagen and U46619. It reduced ADP-enhanced platelet P-selectin expression and fibrinogen binding, which consequently hampered ADP-induced platelet-leukocyte aggregation. SAA also inhibited platelet spreading on fibrinogen, a process mediated by outside-in signaling. Under an arterial shear rate of 1000 s(-1), SAA decreased platelet adhesion on collagen surfaces by approximately 40%. Western blot analysis showed that SAA, like the phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) inhibitors LY294002 and TGX-221, potently inhibited PI3K, as shown by reduced Akt phosphorylation. The in vitro findings were further evaluated in the mouse model of arterial thrombosis, in which SAA prolonged the mesenteric arterial occlusion time in wild-type mice (35 + or - 2 min without SAA and 56 + or - 4 min with SAA; P < 0.01). Interestingly, SAA could even counteract the shortened arterial occlusion time in Ldlr(tm1Her) mutant mice (21 + or - 2 min without SAA and 45 + or - 4 min with SAA; P < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

SAA inhibits platelet activation via the inhibition of PI3K, and attenuates arterial thrombus formation in vivo. Our data suggest that SAA may be developed as a novel therapeutic agent for the prevention of thrombotic disorders.

Inhibition of 2-arachidonoylglycerol catabolism modulates vasoconstriction of rat middle cerebral artery by the thromboxane mimetic, U-46619

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Cerebrovascular smooth muscle cells express the CB1 cannabinoid receptor and CB1 agonists produce vasodilatation of the middle cerebral artery (MCA). The thromboxane A2 mimetic, U-46619, increased the content of the endocannabinoid, 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) in the MCA and 2-AG moderated the vasoconstriction produced by U46619 in this tissue. The purposes of this study were to examine the extent to which 2-AG is catabolized by cerebral arteries and to determine whether blockade of 2-AG inactivation potentiates its feedback inhibition of U-44619-mediated vasoconstriction.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

The diameters of isolated, perfused MCA from male rats were measured using videomicroscopy.

KEY RESULTS

Exogenous 2-AG produces a CB1 receptor-dependent and concentration-related increase in the diameter of MCA constricted with 5-HT. The E (max) for 2-AG dilation is increased 4-fold in the presence of the metabolic inhibitors 3-(decylthio)-1,1,1-trifluropropan-2-one (DETFP), URB754 and URB597. To examine the role of catabolism in the effects of endogenous 2-AG, vasoconstriction induced by U-46619 was studied. DETFP and URB754, but not the fatty acid amide hydrolase inhibitor, URB597, significantly increased the EC(50) for U-46619. These data support a physiological role for endocannabinoid feedback inhibition in the effects of U-46619 and indicate that endogenously produced 2-AG is also efficiently catabolized within the MCA.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

MCA express mechanisms for the efficient inactivation of 2-AG, providing further support for an endocannabinoid feedback mechanism that opposes thromboxane-mediated vasoconstriction. These data suggest that potentiation of endogenously produced 2-AG could be a novel therapeutic approach to the treatment of thrombotic stroke.

Thromboxane mediates neutrophil superoxide production in pregnancy

OBJECTIVE

We recently reported that activation of neutrophils obtained from pregnant women resulted in production of tumor necrosis factor-alpha by a thromboxane- and cyclooxygenase-2- dependent mechanism. Activated neutrophils also generate reactive oxygen species such as the superoxide anion, which can lead to oxidative damage of biomolecules. In this study, we tested the possibility that thromboxane plays a role in neutrophil superoxide generation in pregnancy via cyclooxygenase-2 by inhibiting key enzymes in the pathway leading to its synthesis.

STUDY DESIGN

Neutrophils were isolated from normal pregnant women and incubated for 2 hours in phosphate-buffered saline with glucose alone or with treatments. Experiment 1 treatments were: (1) indomethacin at a dose sufficient to inhibit phospholipase A2 (100 microM); (2) aspirin (100 microM), a cyclooxygenase-1 and cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitor; (3) NS-398 (10 microM), a specific cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitor; (4) nordihydroguaiaretic acid (10 microM), a lipoxygenase inhibitor; and (5) pinane thromboxane, a thromboxane synthase inhibitor. Experiment 2 treatments were arachidonic acid (50 microM and 100 microM) and arachidonic acid (100 microM) alone or in combination with phorbol myristic acid plus varying doses of pinane thromboxane (5 microM to 100 microM).

RESULTS

Indomethacin inhibited superoxide production to one fourth of control. Aspirin, NS-398, and pinane thromboxane also significantly decreased neutrophil superoxide production. Nordihydroguaiaretic acid had no significant affect on neutrophil superoxide generation. Arachidonic acid stimulated superoxide generation by neutrophils, and this was inhibited by pinane thromboxane in a dose-dependent manner. Pinane thromboxane also significantly inhibited superoxide production by neutrophils exposed to arachidonic acid plus phorbol myristic acid, a known activator of neutrophils.

CONCLUSION

These data demonstrate that thromboxane is involved in the production of superoxide by neutrophils obtained from pregnant women. Neutrophil superoxide generation is significantly decreased by inhibition of thromboxane synthase, cyclooxygenase-2, or phospholipase A2. NS-398 inhibits neutrophil superoxide generation as effectively as aspirin, suggesting that cyclooxygenase-2 plays an important role in neutrophil superoxide production mediated by thromboxane.

Pressor responses to platelet-activating factor and thromboxane are mediated by Rho-kinase

Platelet-activating factor (PAF) contracts smooth muscle of airways and vessels primarily via release of thromboxane. Contraction of smooth muscle is thought to be mediated either by calcium and inositol trisphosphate (IP(3))-dependent activation of the myosin light chain kinase or, alternatively, via the recently discovered Rho-kinase pathway. Here we investigated the contribution of these two pathways to PAF and thromboxane receptor-mediated broncho- and vasoconstriction in two different rat models: the isolated perfused lung (IPL) and precision-cut lung slices. Inhibition of the IP(3) receptor (1-10 microM xestospongin C) or inhibition of phosphatidylinositol-specific PLC (30 microM L-108) did not affect bronchoconstriction but attenuated the sustained vasoconstriction by PAF. Inhibition of myosin light chain kinase (35 microM ML-7) or of calmodulin kinase kinase (26 microM STO609), which regulates the phosphorylation of the myosin light chain, had only a small effect on PAF- or thromboxane-induced pressor responses. Similarly, calmidazolium (10 microM), which inhibits calmodulin-dependent proteins, only weakly reduced the airway responses. In contrast, Y-27632 (10 microM), a Rho-kinase inhibitor, attenuated the thromboxane release triggered by PAF and provided partial or complete inhibition against PAF- and thromboxane-induced pressor responses, respectively. Together, our data indicate that PAF- and thus thromboxane receptor-mediated smooth muscle contraction depends largely on the Rho-kinase pathway.

Selective Vasodilator Effect of Magnesium Sulfate in Human Placenta

PROBLEMS

To determine if magnesium sulfate (MgSO4) attenuates the vasoconstrictor effect of angiotensin II (Ag II), endothelin-1 (ET-1) and thromboxane mimetic (TX) in the human fetal placental vasculature and if interleukin-1 beta (IL-1beta) is involved in this process.

STUDY DESIGN

Isolated placental cotyledons (n = 18) were dually perfused with fetal perfusion pressure used as an index of vascular response. The vasoconstriction effect of bolus injection of various concentrations of Ag II (10(-1)) 10(-6) M) or ET-1 (10-(10)-10(-4) M) or TX (10(-10)) 10(-5) M) was established in the absence or presence of MgSO4 (7 mg% constant infusion during 10 hr). Statistical significance was determined by paired t-test and ANOVA.

RESULTS

MgSO4 significantly attenuates the vasoconstrictor effect of Ag II in the fetal placental vasculature in the human placenta (P = 0.02). Moreover, significant attenuation of vasoconstrictor response to ET-1(10(-10))10(-5) M) was observed in the presence of MgSO4 (P = 0.02). However, no attenuation of the vasoconstrictor response to TX was noted in the presence of MgSO4 (P > 0.5). Ag II and TX were shown to induce IL-1beta secretion by placental tissue. This effect was completely reduced by perfusion of MgSO4 (7 mg%; constant infusion).

CONCLUSIONS

MgSO4 significantly attenuates the vasoconstrictor effect of Ag II and ET-1 in the fetal-placental vasculature in the human placenta, but not that of TX. Inhibition of local production of IL-1beta could be one of the mechanisms used by MgSO4 to reduce the vasoconstrictory effect of Ag II and TX in human placental cotyledone.

Anti-leukotriene drugs in the prevention and treatment of hepatorenal syndrome

Hepatorenal syndrome (HRS) is a peculiar form of progressive renal failure complicating the course of cirrhosis and ascites. The renal impairment of HRS is merely functional and potentially reversible. Notwithstanding, in spite of several encouraging attempts, a satisfactory medical treatment for HRS is still expected. Several pathophysiological mechanisms are active in HRS. Arachidonate metabolism derangements are among these, and prostaglandins and thromboxane antagonists have been tried with variable outcomes. Also leukotrienes (LT) appear to be involved in HRS. Three drugs (zileuton, montelukast and zafirlukast) interfering with LT synthesis and receptor binding are currently available, but they have not yet been tried in HRS. Accordingly, the author would like to suggest physicians engaged in care of these critical patients to consider a trial with these drugs-as well as with any future innovative agent active on the arachidonate-derived metabolic pathways.

[Tolerance of moderate hypothermic therapy: it's effect on the neonatal cardiovascular system and particularly pulmonary and intestinal circulation]

We present a study in which we investigated the safety of therapeutic mild hypothermia on the neonatal cardiovascular system. In an attempt to mimic the state of affairs that may follow an hypoxic-ischemic insult, the effect of moderate hypothermia was studied under conditions where cardiovascular integrity was impaired. Newborn piglets where randomized to either receive a thromboxane A2 mimetic or an hypoxic inspiratory gas mixture. Periods of hypothermia (5 degrees C below normothermic level) preceded or were combined with those agents in a random manner. Isolated hypothermia decreased cardiac output by 25%, and increased pulmonary vascular resistance by 48%. Mesenteric blood flow and cerebral blood flow decreased by a similar magnitude (21 and 18% respectively). When hypothermia was combined with alveolar hypoxia or thromboxane, the increase in pulmonary vascular resistance (103 and 292% respectively) exceeded the increase produced by the sum of each individual component. In contrast neither hypoxia nor thromboxane potentiates the hypothermia induced decrease in mesenteric blood flow. Ileal mucosal blood flow remained stable for all conditions. We conclude that mild therapeutic hypothermia may be safe in conditions where cardiac function is impaired, but may be more hazardous when severe pulmonary hypertension is present.

Dietary n-3 and n-6 polyunsaturated oils and airway contractility

Recent reports suggest modulation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease by dietary polyunsaturated fatty acids. In the present study, we re-examined this possibility by using an established animal model of pulmonary sensitisation. Adult guinea pigs were fed diets supplemented (10% w/w) with either olive, canola or safflower oil for 4 weeks before sensitising with ovalbumin and continuing on various diets for a further 6 week period. Neither the contraction following ovalbumin challenge, nor the responses to histamine, carbachol and various eicosanoid mediators - prostaglandin F(2 alpha), leukotriene C(4), thromboxane mimetic U44619 - of isolated segments of airway tissue were altered (P>0.05, ANOVA) by the dietary lipid treatment. Lipid analysis showed changes in membrane linoleic acid (18:2n-6) and alpha -linolenic acids (alpha 18:3n-3) in lung phospholipids consistent with dietary intakes. However, no significant further desaturation/elongation of these dietary precursors was evident. Ovalbumin induced contraction was fully reversed by the lipoxygenase inhibitor esculetin whilst indomethacin resulted in a slight increase possibly due to the inhibition of bronchodilator prostanoids. Results confirm that under the conditions employed airway function was not influenced by the variable dietary intakes of n-3 and n-6 PUFA.

The pathophysiology of renin release in renovascular hypertension

Renovascular hypertension (RVH) results from occlusion of blood flow to either kidney, which stimulates renin release. Increased renin leads to a series of actions that rapidly leads to increased systemic blood pressure. Experimental renovascular hypertension is developed in animals by placement of a clip that occludes more than 50% of renal blood flow to that kidney. The major stimulus for renin release in renovascular hypertension is the severe drop in hydrostatic pressure in the afferent arteriole, the location of the juxtaglomerular renin-secreting granular cells. The pressure drop changes the degree of stretch of these cells which leads to baroreceptor-mediated renin release. The level of renin released can be modified by sympathetic nerves and to a lesser degree by the macula densa. Several hormone or vasoactive agents may augment renin released during RVH, but nearly all are secondary to changes in the pressure receptor mechanism.

Tyrosine phosphorylation of cortactin associated with Syk accompanies thromboxane analogue-induced platelet shape change

Thromboxane A(2) (TxA(2)) is a potent vasoconstrictor and platelet agonist. Pharmacological studies have defined two classes of thromboxane receptors (TPs) in human platelets; sites that bind the agonist 1S-(1,2(5Z),3-(1E,3S),4)-7- 3-(3-hydroxy-4-(4'-iodophenoxy)-1-butenyl)-7-oxabicyclo-2.2. 1-heptan-2-yl-5-heptenoic acid (I-BOP) with high affinity support platelet shape change, whereas low affinity sites that bind irreversibly the antagonist GR 32191 transduce platelet aggregation. As the mechanisms of signal transduction involved in platelet aggregation begin to be elucidated, few results concern those involved in platelet shape change, which is independent of the engagement of GPIIb/IIIa. To elucidate the respective role of the two classes of pharmacological binding sites of TPs in shape change, platelets were incubated with I-BOP at low concentrations or stimulated by I-BOP at high concentrations after pretreatment with GR 32191 or activated with low concentrations of 8-epi-prostaglandin F(2)alpha. Under these three conditions, there is a rapid stimulation of protein tyrosine phosphorylation of the 80/85-kDa doublet identified as the cytoskeletal protein cortactin. Tyrosine phosphorylation of cortactin is kinetically correlated with the occurrence of shape change. These biochemical and morphological events are both inhibited by SQ 29548, a TP antagonist, indicating the specificity of the signal. Since tyrosine kinase Syk was activated early during platelet activation, we examined the possibility that cortactin is a potential substrate of Syk in TxA(2)-induced platelet shape change. p72 Syk phosphorylation and kinase activity took place during the period when platelets were changing shape upon low concentrations of I-BOP stimulation. Furthermore, cortactin was associated with Syk, and this association increases along with the level of phosphorylation. These data suggest a novel pathway for a G protein-coupled TxA(2) high affinity receptor to the protein-tyrosine kinase Syk, which is associated with cortactin in the very early steps of platelet activation.

The vasoconstrictor effect of 8-epi prostaglandin F2alpha in the hypoxic rat heart

1. 8-epi prostaglandin (PG) F2alpha, a vasoconstrictor isoprostane, is synthesized under conditions of oxidative stress. This study was undertaken to investigate the vasoconstrictor effect of 8-epi PGF2alpha in the coronary circulation before and after a period of oxidative stress. 2. The effects of the isoprostane 8-epi PGF2alpha and the thromboxane mimetic U46619 were compared in the isolated rat heart perfused in the Langendorff mode at a constant pressure of 80 mmHg. 3. In normal hearts U46619 caused a dose-related reduction in coronary flow (ED50 4.7+/-2.2 nmol). In contrast, 8-epi PGF2alpha had no effect. 4. After reducing perfusion pressure to 20 mmHg for 30 min and reperfusing at 80 mmHg, the dose-response curve to U46619 was unaffected. In contrast, 8-epi PGF2alpha caused a dose-dependent drop in coronary flow (ED50 52.6+/-12.7 nmol), producing a similar maximal reduction to U46619. 5. Similarly, after perfusion with xanthine and xanthine oxidase for either 15 or 30 min there was little change in the response to U46619 in comparison to control hearts. In contrast, 8-epi PGF2alpha caused a reduction in coronary flow similar to that produced by U46619, the magnitude of the response being related to the length of xanthine/xanthine oxidase perfusion. 6. Responses to both U46619 and 8-epi PGF2alpha after xanthine/xanthine oxidase perfusion were blocked by the selective thromboxane receptor antagonist SQ29548 10(-7) M. 7. These results show that oxidative stress in the isolated perfused rat heart reveals a potent vasoconstrictor effect of the isoprostane 8-epi PGF2alpha by an action on the thromboxane receptor. 8. The data also suggest that, since 8-epi PGF2alpha is a partial agonist at the thromboxane receptor, thromboxane receptor reserve is increased by oxidative stress.

Effect of nitric oxide, prostacyclin, and thromboxane on the vasospastic action of hydrogen peroxide on human umbilical artery

BACKGROUND

The effect of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) on vascular tone in the human umbilical artery was investigated to determine the mechanism of vasospasm in preeclampsia.

METHODS

Helical sections of the umbilical artery were obtained from healthy pregnant women who delivered between the 37th and 39th week of gestation. Changes in the maximal tension induced by prostaglandin F2 alpha (PG F2 alpha) were measured (isometric mechanical activity). Segments were treated with H2O2 alone or H2O2 after pretreatment with a scavenger of hydroxyl radicals (mannitol), an inhibitor of thromboxane synthesis (sodium ozagrel), and an inhibitor of nitric oxide synthesis (L-NG-monomethyl arginine, LNMA), or an inhibitor of prostacyclin synthesis (tranylcypromine, TCP).

RESULTS

Vascular tension was potentiated by H2O2 in a concentration-dependent manner. Pretreatment with mannitol significantly suppressed the vasospastic effect of H2O2. Removal of the endothelium decreased the vascular tension induced by H2O2. Treatment with TCP and LNMA potentiated the vascular tension. Pretreatment with TCP and LNMA reduced the vasospastic action of H2O2, whereas pretreatment with sodium ozagrel did not.

CONCLUSION

Vascular tension in human umbilical arteries was potentiated by H2O2, and may be mediated by a suppression of the activity of nitric oxide or of prostacyclin. A direct action of H2O2 on vascular smooth muscle may also be involved.

Role of endothelium and nitric oxide in the response of equine colonic arterial rings to vasoconstrictor agents

OBJECTIVE

To determine the in vitro contractile responses of equine colonic arteries to angiotensin II, histamine, serotonin, norepinephrine, prostaglandin F2 alpha, vasopressin, and a thromboxane-B2-analogue.

STUDY DESIGN

The tension generated in colonic arterial rings placed in organ baths with oxygenated Tyrode's solution at 37 degrees C after exposure to the previously mentioned chemical agents was measured using force-transducers interfaced with a polygraph.

SAMPLE POPULATION

Large colon arterial rings collected from eight horses.

METHODS

The rings were allowed to equilibrate for 45 minutes after applying 2 g tension. Bath solution was replaced and tension reapplied at 15-minute intervals. Cumulative-concentration-responses were determined for concentrations ranging from 10(-8) M to 10(-4) M on three vessel groups namely endothelium intact, endothelium denuded, and L-NAME treated. The maximal response for each vessel was considered as 100%; responses to lower concentrations were calculated as a percentage of the maximum. The EC50 value was determined for each concentration-response relationship of each agent.

RESULTS

Vessels with denuded endothelium or those incubated with L-NAME had greater contractile responses. Angiotensin, histamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine produced greater maximal responses than the other agents. Endothelium denuded rings had lower EC50 values. Responses to norepinephrine and serotonin were affected less by denudation.

CONCLUSIONS

Endothelium plays an important role in modulating responses of colonic arterial rings to contractile agents. Endothelium-derived vasodilators, other than nitric oxide, may modulate contractile responses of equine colonic arteries.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Endothelial damage associated with colonic vovulus may be a major factor for sustained reduced perfusion after surgical correction.

Thromboxane causes airway hyperresponsiveness after cigarette smoke-induced neurogenic inflammation

We investigated the role of neurogenic inflammation and the subsequent mechanisms in cigarette smoke-induced airway hyperresponsiveness in guinea pigs. Exposure to cigarette smoke was carried out at tidal volume for 3 min. Airway responsiveness to histamine was determined before and after smoke exposure followed by bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL). Plasma extravasation was evaluated by measuring the extravasation of Evans blue dye in the airway. Cigarette smoke produced significant airway hyperresponsiveness and plasma extravasation, with an influx of neutrophils in BAL fluid. FK-224 (10 mg/kg i.v.), a tachykinin antagonist at NK1 and NK2 receptors, significantly inhibited these changes. The thromboxane (Tx) B2 concentration was increased in BAL fluid after smoke exposure and was significantly inhibited by FK-224. OKY-046 (10 mg/kg i.v.), a Tx synthase inhibitor, significantly inhibited airway hyperresponsiveness but had no effect on neutrophil influx or plasma extravasation. The results suggest that neurogenic inflammation and the subsequent generation of Tx in the airway are important in the development of the airway hyperresponsiveness induced by cigarette smoke.

Defibrotide mediated inhibition of serotonin, endothelin-I, thromboxane, and serum induced contraction of canine femoral and pulmonary arterial rings

Defibrotide is a polydeoxyribonucleotide derived agent with a weight average of 15 to 18 kDa. By virtue of its chemical nature, this polyelectrolyte agent exerts multiple pharmacologic actions at various plasmatic and cellular sites. In recent studies, this agent has been demonstrated to exhibit cardioprotective and vasomodulatory actions. To test the effect of defibrotide on the vascular smooth muscle contractile responses, its effects were evaluated on contractile response induced by agonists in canine femoral and pulmonary arterial smooth muscle preparation. These arterial preparations were harvested from anesthetized and anticoagulated (Heparinized 3-5 U/ml) dogs. Defibrotide was administered to dogs at 10 mg/kg, i.v. and segments of canine arteries were harvested at 30 minutes after the administration of this agent. The control and defibrotide treated canine arterial ring preparations were tested against serotonin, endothelin-I, serum and control platelet rich plasma(PRP) with arachidonic acid(AA). The contractile response of arterial rings obtained for treated groups were measured using serotonin, endothelin-I, serum and PRP/AA as agonists. The contractile action of serotonin, endothelin-I, serum and PRP/AA were inhibited by pretreatment of the animal with defibrotide. The arterial ring isolated from dogs treated with defibrotide exhibited a weaker contraction. These studies support the hypothesis that defibrotide modulates endothelial function and the response to the contractile actions of various agonists may be related to this effect.

Platelet lipoxygenase inhibitors attenuate thrombin- and thromboxane mimetic-induced intracellular calcium mobilization and platelet aggregation

Platelets metabolize arachidonic acid via cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase (LO) enzymatic pathways. Although platelets produce large amounts of arachidonic acid metabolites via the LO pathway, little is known regarding the physiological significance of these products. We used three structurally dissimilar LO inhibitors, 5,8,11-eicosatriynoic acid (ETI), baicalein and phenidone, and found that LO inhibition attenuated thrombin- and U46619 (a thromboxane mimetic)-induced increases of platelet intracellular calcium ([Ca++]i) in washed human platelets. LO inhibitors also reduced platelet aggregation induced by thrombin and U46619. The effect of ETI on reducing the thrombin-induced [Ca++]i elevation persisted even when cation channels were blocked, suggesting that LO inhibitors modify release of Ca from intracellular stores. Stimulating endogenous LO product formation potentiated thrombin-induced [Ca++]i responses and aggregation, and these effects were eliminated by ETI. ETI did not alter inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate production in stimulated platelets, but increased platelet cyclic AMP production in thrombin- or forskolin-stimulated platelets. These results suggest that LO products are regulators of platelet [Ca++]i mobilization and aggregation in response to some agonists, and that LO inhibitors may work in part by modifying platelet cyclic AMP metabolism.

Pregnancy enhances the pressor response to thromboxane analogues in rabbits

In this study, we first tested the hypothesis that the previously demonstrated circulatory failure and thrombocytopenia induced by intracaval administration of thromboxane A2 (TxA2) analogues in nonpregnant (NP) rabbits [G. Losonczy, I. Mucha, J. DiPirro, J. Sweeney, G. Brown, J. Brentjens, and R. Venuto. Am. J. Physiol. 265 (Regulatory Integrative Comp. Physiol. 34): R772-R780, 1993] could be avoided if the compounds were given instead into the aortic arch. Conscious New Zealand White rabbits received bolus injections of U-46619 (5-20 micrograms) through a previously implanted catheter threaded into the aortic arch. Indeed, mean arterial pressure (MAP) rose modestly, and thrombocytopenia did not develop. Next, we compared the blood pressure responses of pregnant (P) rabbits with those of NP rabbits to intra-aortic U-46619 and I-BOP, because they had been found to be resistant to both the hypotensive and platelet aggregatory effects of intracaval U-46619. Resting blood pressure was lower in P than in NP rabbits (74 +/- 3 vs. 95 +/- 2 mmHg), but showed a greater increase in response to U-46619. For example, following a 20-micrograms dose blood pressure rose 20 +/- 0.3 mmHg in P vs. 12 +/- 2.1 mmHg in NP rabbits (P < 0.02). Similar results were obtained with the second TxA2 analogue I-BOP. Pregnancy-induced enhancement of blood pressure elevation may be the consequence of peripheral vasoconstriction, which was not seen in NP rabbits. Thus the actions of TxA2 analogues U-46619 and I-BOP are markedly influenced by the route of administration.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Potentiation of PDGF-induced growth responses in coronary artery smooth muscle cells by thromboxane

Mitogenic effects of TXA2 in vascular smooth muscle cells are discussed to be dependent on the age of the donor organism. The present study investigates the contribution of TXA2 on PDGF-induced proliferation of bovine coronary artery smooth muscle cells (BCA-SMC) isolated from adult animals. Radioligand binding studies revealed high affinity TXA2 binding sites (Kd = 1.6 nM) in these cells. TXA2-mimetics alone showed no proliferative effect in BCA-SMC, assessed by [3H]thymidine incorporation. However, PDGF-stimulated proliferation was potentiated two-fold receptor-dependently by TXA2-mimetics. Thus, vasoconstrictory eicosanoids released from activated platelets might aggravate proliferation of vascular smooth muscle cells at sites of vessel injury in the adult organism.

Contractile effects of prostanoids on fetal rabbit ductus arteriosus

We wished to determine whether any evidence indicates that the ductus arteriosus has prostanoid receptors coupled to contractile pathways and whether the sensitivity of the ductus to the dilator effect of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) was inhibited by other prostanoids. Rings of ductus arteriosus were isolated from fetal New Zealand White rabbits (28 days of gestation) and mounted in vitro. In the presence of 1 microM indomethacin, the vessel was relaxed with either 300 nM forskolin or 10 nM PGE2, and cumulative concentration-contraction response curves to several synthetic prostanoids were obtained with or without a receptor antagonist when available. The vessel was also precontracted with 1 microM indomethacin and 25 mM K+ in 13-14.5 kPa O2, and cumulative concentration-relaxation response curves to PGE2 were obtained with and without addition of prostanoids. In 300 nM forskolin, both U46619 and sulprostone caused concentration-dependent contractions of the ductus in the nanomolar range (EC50 values, i.e., the interpolated molar concentration of the drug causing 50% of its own eventual maximum response of 33 and 42 nM, respectively). Responses to GR63799X and PGF2 alpha were complicated by the fact that these agonists caused relaxation at high concentrations (> or = 30 nM). The response to U46619 was shifted to the right by the thromboxane receptor antagonist EP 092. In 10 nM PGE2, U46619, sulprostone, and GR63799X elicited similar contractile responses, whereas PGF2 alpha had no effect.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Effect of surgical preparation and arterialization on vasomotion of human saphenous vein

To gain an insight into venous physiologic adaptation to arterialization, this study examined the effects of thromboxane, 5-hydroxytryptamine, endothelin, leukotriene C4, and norepinephrine on isolated segments of native and distended human saphenous vein, short-term (up to 1 year) grafts, and long-term (1 to 10 year) grafts. The mean maximum constrictor responses, expressed as percentage of maximum potassium depolarization, were as follows: thromboxane analog U46619: native vein 147.0% +/- 10.5%, distended vein 251.2% +/- 29.1%, short-term graft 174.6% +/- 33.8%, long-term graft 220.9% +/- 21.7%; 5-hydroxytryptamine: native vein 115.6% +/- 6.1%, distended vein 129.9% +/- 13.3%, short-term graft 80.0% +/- 15.0%, long-term graft 95.1% +/- 12.1%; endothelin-1: native vein 126.5% +/- 22.1%, distended vein 138.1% +/- 24.7%, short-term graft 120.7% +/- 43.3%, long-term graft 171.4% +/- 26.0%; leukotriene C4: native vein 49.9% +/- 8.7%, distended vein 78.9% +/- 11.8%, short-term graft 90.8% +/- 39.1%, long-term graft 7.4% +/- 5.0%; and norepinephrine: native vein 127.0% +/- 9.3%, distended vein 155.0% +/- 17.8%, short-term graft 61.6% +/- 11.3%, long-term graft 80.1% +/- 7.7%. The vasoconstriction elicited by each agonist, in absolute terms (in millinewtons), diminished with age of graft. We conclude that surgical treatment of saphenous vein immediately renders it more responsive to U46619, norepinephrine, and leukotriene C4. An agonist-specific profile of response was evident up to 10 years after operation, which may affect myocardial blood supply when luminal bore is diminished by vein graft disease.

Thromboxane-like actions of prostaglandin D2 on the contractility of the rat colon in vitro

Prostaglandin D2 (PGD2) concentration-dependently induced a contraction of the longitudinal muscle of the intact isolated rat colon in vitro. The effect of PGD2 increased continuously from the anal to the oral end of the colon. The action of PGD2 was not inhibited but rather enhanced by the neurotoxin, tetrodotoxin, and by the PGD2 antagonist, AH 6809. In contrast, the thromboxane A2 antagonist, SK&F 88046, concentration-dependently inhibited the PGD2 effect. The action of PGD2 was mimicked by the stable thromboxane A2 derivative, carbocyclic thromboxane A2, indicating that PGD2 exerts its action on the smooth muscle by stimulation of thromboxane receptors. Between 18 (distal colon) and 38% (proximal colon) of the preparations exhibited spontaneous phasic myogenic contractions. The thromboxane antagonist, SK&F 88046, completely suppressed these spontaneous contractions. The combined lipoxygenase/cyclo-oxygenase inhibitor nordihydroguaiaretic acid and sulfasalazine mimicked the action of SK&F 88046, whereas the cyclo-oxygenase inhibitor, indomethacin, was ineffective. These results suggest that endogenously produced metabolites of arachidonic acid, e.g. thromboxane A2, contribute to the generation of spontaneous muscle contractions in vitro. The failure of indomethacin to suppress muscular activity, however, requires further studies.

[The participation of the prostacyclin-thromboxane system in the mechanism of the action of calcium antagonists]

The experiments with isolated rat aortic circular segments have shown that vasocyclin (natural prostacyclin), verapamil, and diltiazem cause the relaxation of vascular smooth muscles during potassium-induced contracture. The impaired endothelium and acetylsalicylic acid-induced blockade of cyclooxygenase dramatically reduce the relaxant action of verapamil and diltiazem under these conditions. It is concluded that the system of prostaglandin synthesis plays an important role in the vasodilator effects of calcium antagonist.

Effects of vasoactive intestinal polypeptide on antigen-induced bronchoconstriction and thromboxane release in guinea-pig lung

1. Exogenous vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP) infused into the pulmonary artery of isolated and ventilated lungs of guinea-pigs decreased, in a dose-dependent fashion (1.0-10.0 nmol), airway resistance and thromboxane B2 (TXB2, the stable hydrolysis product of TXA2) release in the perfusion medium. Prostacyclin (PGI2) synthesis, as reflected by the release of its stable hydrolysis product 6-oxo-PGF1 alpha, was unaffected. Pretreatment with the 5-lipoxygenase inhibitor BWA4c (3.5 x 10(-5) M) did not modify the bronchodilatory effect of VIP or its inhibitory action on TXB2 release. 2. Basal release of immunoreactive VIP from perfused lungs decreased from an initial value of 0.96 +/- 0.10 ng min-1 (mean +/- s.e.mean) in the first 2 min to an average of 0.58 +/- 0.10 ng min-1 in the following 15-20 min. 3. Antigen challenge with ovalbumin (0.1%) in sensitized lungs caused an anaphylactic reaction in 45% of tested lungs, concomitant with a 5 fold increase in both VIP and TXB2 release. Tetrodotoxin pretreatment (10(-6) M) reduced basal VIP release by > 80% and abolished the VIP increase observed during anaphylaxis, without modifying TXB2 release or the bronchoconstrictor response. 4. Indomethacin (10(-6) M) inhibited TXB2 synthesis and release by > 90%, delayed the bronchoconstrictor response and blunted the increased VIP release during lung anaphylaxis, without influencing basal VIP release. 5. The 5-lipoxygenase inhibitor BWA4c (3.5 x 10(-5) M) blunted the increase of TXB2 and VIP release from guinea-pig lung and attenuated the bronchoconstrictor response following ovalbumin challenge. 6. The administration of exogenous VIP as a continuous infusion (10-8 M) attenuated the bronchoconstriction and the release of cyclo-oxygenase metabolites following antigen challenge.7. Acetylcholine (10-6-l0-5 M) infused into the pulmonary artery induced a dose-dependent bronchoconstriction not associated with enhanced VIP or TXB2 release.8. The TXA2 mimetic U-46619 (0.1-1.0 nmol) caused dose-dependent increases in airway resistance,concomitant with an up to 10 fold increase in VIP release. VIP inhibited arachidonate-induced in vitro aggregation of washed rabbit platelets in a dose-dependent manner over a dose range 10-8 10-6 M.Despite the antiaggregatory effect of VIP, TXB2 and PGE2 synthesis was reduced only to a minor extent,and there was no redirection of arachidonate metabolism from TXA2 to PGE2, indicating that VIP does not act as a TX synthase inhibitor in vitro.9. We conclude that VIP may play a role in regulating bronchial smooth muscle reactivity in lung anaphylaxis by inhibiting the synthesis and release of TXA2, a potent vasoactive and bronchoconstrictor agent. TXA2, on the other hand, strongly enhances neuronal VIP release.

Effect of naftidrofuryl on platelet-induced vasospasm in vitro. Role of antiserotonergic actions

This study was designed to analyse the spasmolytic actions of naftidrofuryl (Dusodril, CAS 31329-57-4) more in detail, using isolated vessel segments of bovine coronary arteries (BCA). In this preparation, naftidrofuryl caused a dose-dependent inhibition of 5-HT, U 46.619 ((5Z, 9a, 11a, 13E, 15S)-11,9-(epoxymethano) prosta-5,13-dienoic acid), PGF2 alpha and KCl-induced contractions. Additionally, the actions of naftidrofuryl on platelet-induced vasospasm were investigated using arachidonic acid (AA)-stimulated platelets and BCA. Naftidrofuryl antagonized the vasocontractile effects of secreted 5-HT, but was only slightly active in reducing the TXA2-dependent vessel contraction. The suppression of ADP-induced platelet aggregation and secretion required more than 300 mumol/l naftidrofuryl. These data support the concept of a spasmolytic activity of naftidrofuryl which also involves the antagonism of platelet-derived vasocontractile mediators.

Characterization of glomerular thromboxane receptors in murine lupus nephritis

Renal thromboxane (Tx) production is increased in the MRL-lpr murine model of lupus nephritis. To investigate the relationship between increased Tx production and number and affinity of Tx receptors, we measured binding of the Tx receptor antagonist [3H][SQ295481S-1 alpha,2 beta(5Z),3 beta,4 alpha]-7-(3-((2-((phenyl- amino)-carbonyl)hydrozino)methyl)-7-oxabicyclo-(2.2.1)heptan -2-yl)-5-heptenoic acid in glomerular preparations from MRL-lpr mice and both MRL(-)+/+ and LG/J controls. Renal Tx binding was first characterized in normal LG/J mice. In these animals, glomerular binding was specific, saturable and reversible. Scatchard analysis revealed a single class of high-affinity binding sites. We next evaluated Tx production and binding in 12- and 16-week-old MRL-lpr mice and MRL(-)+/+ controls. To assess renal Tx production, excretion of TxB2 was measured in urine. Urinary TxB2 was increased in MRL-lpr mice at 16 weeks of age. This increase in urinary TxB2 was associated with a reduction in density of glomerular Tx binding sites compared to either 12-week-old MRL-lpr mice or MRL(-)+/+ controls. Ligand binding affinity was similar in all groups. To investigate if this alteration in binding was specific for Tx, glomerular binding of [3H]angiotensin II was measured. In MRL-lpr mice, the number and affinity of glomerular angiotensin binding sites were similar at 12 and 16 weeks of age. Thus, in this murine model of lupus nephritis, enhanced renal Tx production is temporally associated with a decrease in glomerular Tx binding sites without a change in receptor affinity.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Cyclooxygenase inhibitors blunt thromboxane action in human placental arteries by blocking thromboxane receptors

The effects of cyclooxygenase inhibitors on thromboxane-mediated vasoconstriction in human placental arteries were studied in the isolated perfused fetoplacental cotyledon. The stable thromboxane agonist U-46619 caused a dose-related increase in perfusion pressure in the fetal side of the cotyledon. Meclofenamate (3.3 x 10(-5) M) significantly blunted the pressor response to U-46619, but not to angiotensin II, and inhibited thromboxane B2 formation in placental slices (IC50, 4.80 x 10(-8) M). The mechanism by which meclofenamate prevented thromboxane-induced vasoconstriction was studied using ligand-binding techniques in a membrane fraction prepared from placental cotyledons. Meclofenamate caused a dose-related inhibition of binding of the thromboxane receptor antagonist [3H]SQ 29548 with an IC50 of 2.61 x 10(-5) M. Scatchard analysis of equilibrium binding demonstrated that meclofenamate reduced the number of binding sites without altering the affinity of the receptor, suggesting a noncompetitive mechanism. Indomethacin also caused a dose-related inhibition of thromboxane binding (IC50, 3.27 x 10(-4) M). However, aspirin at a dose of 2.0 x 10(-3) M did not inhibit [3H]SQ 29548 binding. The data indicate that some cyclooxygenase inhibitors blunt thromboxane actions by interfering with binding at thromboxane receptor sites. These studies identify a new mechanism by which cyclooxygenase inhibition by some nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can prevent thromboxane action in fetoplacental blood vessels in vitro independent of reductions in thromboxane formation.

Mass contents of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate and 1,2-diacylglycerol in human platelets stimulated with a thromboxane analogue and thrombin

Mass contents of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3) and 1,2-diacylglycerol (DG) were measured in U46619-stimulated human platelets. 1 microM of U46619 induced maximum responses in aggregation, 5-hydroxytryptamine (5HT) secretion and increase in intracellular free Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i). Aggregation was almost comparable to that induced by maximal dose (1 U/ml) of thrombin, while 5HT release was almost half. The initial [Ca2+]i peak in response to U46619 was about half of thrombin stimulation. Production of IP3 and DG was, however, less than one tenth of that seen in thrombin stimulation. The profile (time course and concentration-dependency) of IP3 formation did not correlate with that of [Ca2+]i, suggesting that U46619 stimulates IP3-dependent and -independent Ca2+ mobilization. DG production was small but sustained for more than 5 min. These findings support the recent hypothesis that aggregation is regulated by a delayed accumulation of DG. The low level of 5HT secretion could be explained by the low production of second messengers, IP3 and DG.

Thromboxane augmentation of alloreactive T cell function

Thromboxane (Tx) plays a vital role in the dysfunction and ultimate rejection of MHC-disparate renal allografts. In addition to its potent vasoconstrictory properties, in vivo studies have implied that Tx is capable of promoting immune cytotoxic T cell function within transplants. In this study, we have examined the in vitro effect of Tx inhibition on alloreactive immune cells using MHC-disparate mouse strain combinations. Coculture of either Tx-synthetase or Tx-receptor inhibitors modified the response of unprimed mouse lymphoid populations in a primary MLR, implying that Tx inhibition and not endoperoxide shunting was responsible for the modulatory effects seen. For example, B10.S lymphoid cells displayed decreased proliferation to H-2 disparate B10.A cells with Tx inhibitors present during the MLR, at pharmacologically active drug concentrations. Moreover, in vitro addition of TxA2 had an augmentory effect on the response in the primary and secondary MLR. Interleukin 2 production and percentages of T cell populations in the primary MLR were not affected by the presence of these compounds, although CD4 and CD8 expression was often increased in the treated populations. Finally, alloreactive primed effector cells also displayed reduced proliferation to specific alloantigen in a secondary MLR when Tx inhibitors were also present, although responses to IL-2 by T cells were not influenced by thromboxane inhibition. These data imply that thromboxane is an important immunoregulatory mediator capable of potentiating the function of naive and primed alloreactive immune T cell populations crucial to the rejection of the transplant.

The differential effects of polymorphonuclear leukocyte secretion on human natural killer cell activity

We studied the differential effects of polymorphonuclear leukocyte (PMN) secretion on human natural killer cells (NK) and lymphokine-activated killer cell (LAK) activity. Supernatant fluids from PMN stimulated by serum-opsonized zymosan (SOZ), n-formylmethionylleucylphenylalanine (FMLP) and interleukin-8 (IL-8) were incubated with peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBL) for 1 d and 4 d. Supernates from unstimulated PMN and PMN induced by FMLP and IL-8 decreased NK and LAK cytotoxicity in a dose-dependent fashion against K562 and M14 targets, respectively. Only the suppression caused by supernates from unstimulated PMN was ablated by incubation of PMN with indomethacin. Secretions from PMN stimulated by SOZ increased both NK and LAK cytotoxicity and induced PBL proliferation synergistically with IL-2. This enhancing factor was heat-labile, nondialyzable (MWCO 3500), and not blocked by anti-interferon-gamma. Anaerobic conditions did not influence the modulatory activity of PMN supernates, indicating that oxygen metabolites were not involved. We conclude that PMN release factors that modulate in vitro NK and LAK activities.

Endothelium-derived relaxing factor and indomethacin-sensitive contracting factor alter arterial contractile responses to thromboxane during pregnancy

OBJECTIVES

Pregnancy reduces uterine artery contractile responses to norepinephrine and angiotensin II in many species, including the human and the guinea pig, by release of endothelium-derived relaxing substances. We hypothesized that vascular reactivity to thromboxane during pregnancy would also be reduced by a similar mechanism.

STUDY DESIGN

Isolated ring segments of uterine and carotid arteries from nonpregnant and near-term pregnant guinea pigs were suspended in a myograph for the measurement of isometric tension.

RESULTS

Uterine but not carotid artery sensitivity to cumulative addition of the thromboxane analog U46619 was decreased during pregnancy. The maximal contractile responses of both vessels were unaltered by pregnancy. N omega-nitro-L-arginine (10(-4) mol/L), an inhibitor of nitric oxide endothelium-derived relaxing factor synthesis, increased the sensitivity of uterine and carotid arteries to U46619 in both pregnant and nonpregnant animals. The maximal contractile response of uterine arteries from pregnant guinea pigs was also increased, but that of nonpregnant ones was not. The maximal U46619 contractile response of the carotid artery was not significantly altered by N omega-nitro-L-arginine. Indomethacin (10(-5) mol/L), a cyclooxygenase inhibitor, reduced both the sensitivity and the maximal response of U46619 in each vessel group. Removal of the endothelium from uterine artery of pregnant animals enhanced both sensitivity and maximal response to U46619. Pretreatment of the denuded segments with indomethacin reduced the sensitivity to U46619. However, indomethacin-treated denuded segments were still more sensitive to U46619 than controls.

CONCLUSION

The sensitivity of guinea pig uterine artery but not carotid artery to thromboxane is reduced during pregnancy. Although the precise mechanism remains unclear, both endothelium-derived relaxing factor and an indomethacin-sensitive contracting factor are involved. If indomethacin-sensitive contracting factor is released by humans and disease alters that release, it is possible that any enhanced contractile response to thromboxane resulting from the loss of endothelium-derived relaxing agents such as prostacyclin and endothelium-derived relaxing factor would be offset by the loss of indomethacin-sensitive contracting factor.

Prostaglandin interactions with angiotensin, norepinephrine, and thromboxane in rat renal vasculature

The objective of this study was to investigate the ability of the vasodilator prostaglandins E2 (PGE2) and I2 (PGI2) to interact with the vasoconstrictor action of angiotensin II (ANG II), norepinephrine (NE), and thromboxane A2 (TxA2) in the renal vasculature. In 12-wk-old anesthetized Munich-Wistar rats pretreated with indomethacin, renal blood flow (RBF) was measured during bolus injection of ANG II, NE, U-46619 (TxA2 agonist), PGE2, viprostol (PGE2 agonist), PGI2 or iloprost (PGI2 agonist) into the renal artery. Agents were injected separately and in a mixture of one constrictor with one dilator. ANG II, NE, and U-46619 induced large decreases in RBF, whereas PGs and their analogues produced slight, but significant, vasodilatation. To evaluate possible interactions in the vasomotor mechanisms between the dilators and the constrictors, curves of transient responses of separate injections were added (one constrictor plus one dilator) to create a predicted response of a mixture. NE exhibited additive effects with all PGs, as evidenced by the similarity of measured and predicted responses. In contrast, the TxA2 agonist interacted in a nonlinear fashion with all PGs; the measured maximum vasoconstriction was less than that predicted, and all kinetic parameters for the measured response were shorter than those predicted. The measured response to mixtures of ANG II and all PGs had a faster recovery than that predicted. We propose that the similarity between measured and predicted responses is due to independent actions of these agents via distinct mechanisms. In contrast, nonadditive responses suggest that the mechanisms mediating vasomotor effects of these agents interact in some cellular event.

Vascular reactivity of human internal mammary and gastroepiploic arteries

Patency rates of bypass graft conduits are thought to be influenced by the determinants of vascular tone. This study has comparatively examined the response of the human internal mammary and gastroepiploic arteries to potassium, noradrenaline, dopamine, 5-hydroxytryptamine, thromboxane, and histamine. The response to potassium was significantly greater in the gastroepiploic artery (Emax = 79.5 +/- 9.6 mN) than in the internal mammary artery (Emax = 27.0 +/- 6.4 mN). Dose-related constrictions were observed in both vessels to all agonists except histamine, which was ineffective in the gastroepiploic artery. Noradrenaline and dopamine produced comparable dose-related constrictions in each vessel, with similar EC50 and Emax (expressed as a percentage of potassium response) values, but 5-hydroxytryptamine (Emax, gastroepiploic = 10.8% +/- 1.9%; internal mammary = 71.8% +/- 21.2%) and thromboxane (Emax, gastroepiploic = 116.7% +/- 4.0%; internal mammary = 169.6% +/- 19.4%) were more efficacious in their constriction of the mammary artery; the potencies were similar. We conclude that there is a heterogeneity of response to some vasoconstrictors between the human internal mammary and gastroepiploic arteries. The internal mammary artery may be more predisposed to events that initiate vasospastic disorders.

Thiol modification in H2O2- and thromboxane-induced vaso- and bronchoconstriction in rat perfused lung

Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), arachidonic acid (AA), and U-44069, a thromboxane analogue, all induced vaso- and bronchoconstriction in the isolated perfused rat lung. The role of protein sulfhydryl modifications in these processes was investigated. The thiol oxidizing agent diamide inhibited both vaso- and bronchoconstriction induced by H2O2, AA, or U-44069. Diamide had only a marginal effect on glutathione and protein thiol levels and no effect on lung mechanics. The diamide inhibition was reversible, and H2O2-induced vaso- and bronchoconstriction was almost maximal after 10 min of perfusion with buffer. The recovery was more rapid if dithiothreitol, a thiol reducing agent, was used in the buffer. H2O2- and AA-induced vaso- and bronchoconstriction is caused by thromboxane release. Diamide did not influence H2O2- or AA-dependent thromboxane formation, indicating that neither AA release nor AA metabolism to thromboxane is sensitive to thiol oxidation. Thus our results indicate that the site of diamide-induced thiol oxidation is the thromboxane receptor or its signal transduction.

Thromboxane stimulates synthesis of extracellular matrix proteins in vitro

The vasoconstrictor eicosanoid thromboxane plays an important role in the pathogenesis of several renal diseases. As an autacoid, its local release alters blood flow and induces platelet aggregation. We report a direct stimulatory effect of thromboxane on extracellular matrix protein production and gene expression in vitro. Treatment of two cell types, differentiated mouse teratocarcinoma cells (F9+) and human glomerular mesangial cells, with two different thromboxane analogues resulted in increased production of components of the extracellular matrix including fibronectin and the basement membrane proteins laminin and type IV collagen. These responses to thromboxane were not the result of a mitogenic effect of thromboxane nor the result of an increase in total cellular protein. The increased production of extracellular matrix proteins was, at least in part, due to an increase in the steady-state level of mRNA for these genes. Furthermore, the effect of thromboxane was markedly inhibited by cotreatment with a thromboxane-receptor antagonist. These results suggest a new potential role for thromboxane as a mediator of the sclerotic and fibrotic responses to injury.

Role of endothelium-derived relaxing factor and prostaglandins in responses of coronary arteries to thromboxane in vivo

We examined the relative contribution of endothelial and vascular smooth muscle-derived prostaglandins and endothelium-derived relaxing factor in modulating both the large coronary artery and resistance vessel responses to thromboxane in vivo. Vascular responses to the thromboxane analogue U46619 were measured in four separate experimental protocols: 1) The vascular responses were measured in the presence and absence of intact endothelium to examine the role of endothelium-derived vasodilators. 2) Responses were measured in the presence of intact endothelium before and after inhibition of cyclooxygenase with indomethacin to examine the role of endothelial and vascular smooth muscle-derived prostaglandins. 3) Responses were measured after endothelial removal before and after indomethacin to examine the role of vascular smooth muscle-derived prostaglandins. 4) Responses were measured after indomethacin and before and after removal of endothelium to examine the role of endothelium-derived relaxing factor. In anesthetized dogs (n = 41) that underwent constant pressure perfusion of the left anterior descending coronary artery (LAD), LAD diameter was measured with sonomicrometer crystals, and coronary flow was measured with an electromagnetic flow probe. Intracoronary infusion of U46619 (0.01-1.0 microgram/min) produced a dose-dependent constriction of LAD. Constriction of the LAD was augmented after endothelial removal, after indomethacin treatment in both the presence and absence of endothelium, and after removal of the endothelium in the presence of indomethacin. Inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis had the greatest effect of augmenting constriction of LAD to thromboxane. Coronary flow was decreased by U46619 only in the presence of indomethacin.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Interactions between histamine and prostanoids in IgE-dependent, late cutaneous reactions in man

The contribution of histamine and cyclooxygenase metabolites of arachidonic acid to the wheal-and-flare reaction (WFR) (0 to 30 minutes) and the late cutaneous reaction (LCR) (1 to 24 hours) evoked by intradermal injection of antihuman IgE was appreciated in a comprehensive study of human volunteers treated with H1 and H2 antihistamines, cyclooxygenase inhibitors, as well as the combination of both types of drugs. The findings reinforce the concept that histamine is the major, but not exclusive, mediator of the WFR. In contrast, histamine accounted for but a limited portion of the LCR, but 48 hours of pretreatment with three different cyclooxygenase inhibitors, acetylsalicylic acid, indomethacin, or diclofenac sodium, had but a minor influence on the WFR, whereas all drugs produced a distinct overall inhibition of the LCR. However, for indomethacin, the inhibition was preceded by a potentiation (at 1 to 2 hours), which was abolished by antihistamines, suggesting increased histamine release from skin mast cells after cyclooxygenase inhibition. Furthermore, there was synergism between indomethacin and antihistamines during the LCR, and the combination of diclofenac sodium with antihistamines produced additive inhibition. It is proposed that cyclooxygenase products, such as prostaglandins and thromboxanes, contribute to IgE-dependent skin reactions, both as modulators of mediator release and as vasoactive mediators.

Hemodynamic and tubular effects of endothelin and thromboxane in the isolated perfused rat kidney

We have investigated the effects of the endothelium-derived peptide, endothelin, and of a chemically stable analog of thromboxane (TX) A2, U46619, on the glomerular hemodynamics and tubular function of isolated, perfused rat kidneys. Endothelin (10(-11)-10(-9) M) dose dependently decreased the renal plasma flow to a significantly greater extent than it did the glomerular filtration rate. In contrast, U46619 (10(-9)-10(-7) M) had more pronounced effects on the glomerular filtration rate than on the renal plasma flow. As a consequence, the filtration fraction was increased by endothelin and decreased by U46619. Endothelin, unlike U46619, enhanced urinary Na+ excretion and reduced oxygen consumption at concentrations that greatly decreased the tubular load, thus suggesting that it has a direct effect on tubular Na+ reabsorption. Addition of the TXA2/PGH2-receptor antagonist, BM13177 (4.10(-4) M), or the cyclooxygenase inhibitor, acetylsalicylic acid (10(-3) M), to the perfusion medium failed to modify the endothelin-induced increase in Na+ excretion or the reduction in renal plasma flow, whereas acetylsalicylic acid, but not BM13177, partially prevented the decrease in the glomerular filtration rate. These results demonstrate that two contractile agonists produced by the kidney have specific and differential effects on cortical and tubular functions. Moreover, the intrarenal production of eicosanoids does not appear to play a major role in the renal effects of endothelin.

Diabetes-induced enhancement of prostanoid-stimulated contraction in mesenteric veins of mice

We investigated the influence of the diabetic state on the contractile response of longitudinal segments of isolated mesenteric vein to prostanoids and leukotriene (LT), and the contribution of the vascular endothelium to modulation of the contractile response was determined. The normal mesenteric vein and de-endothelialized veins of normal (ddY), diabetic KK-CAy and streptozotocin ddY mice (150 mg/kg, i.v., 6 weeks) were used. In the diabetic state, the contractions produced by noradrenaline (60 microM), high K+ solution (143.4 mM), and the thromboxane A2 analogue U-46619 (29 nM-29 mM) were not affected, and LTD4 (0.1 nM-1 microM)-induced contraction was suppressed. Contractions induced by prostaglandin (PG) E2 (0.2 microM-2 mM), PGF2 alpha (0.3 microM-0.3 mM) and the prostacyclin derivatives PGI2-Na (10-100 microM) and TRK-100 (0.2 microM-2 mM) were significantly enhanced in the presence of an intact vascular endothelium, but not in de-endothelialized segments. The increase in PGF2 alpha (0.28 mM) contractions was dependent on age (correlation coefficient r = 0.36, significant difference, P less than 0.05) and blood glucose (r = 0.88, significant difference, P less than 0.01), but was independent of obesity. The contractile response to PGD2 (0.3-0.9 mM) was enhanced in both intact and de-endothelialized segments. These results indicate that the diabetic state affects prostanoid responses in an endothelium-dependent manner, except for the PGD2 response, which is independent of the endothelium.

Atherosclerosis potentiates constrictor responses of cerebral and ocular blood vessels to thromboxane in monkeys

The goal of our study was to examine the effects of infusion of serotonin and the thromboxane A2 analogue U46619 into one carotid artery to stimulate their release from platelets during aggregation. We measured blood flow to the brain and eye using microspheres and cerebral microvascular pressure in the pial arteries of normal and atherosclerotic cynomolgus monkeys. Unilateral intracarotid infusion of 10-30 micrograms/min serotonin did not affect cerebral blood flow in normal or atherosclerotic monkeys; serotonin did not alter blood flow to the eye in normal monkeys but decreased flow to the retina and choroid in atherosclerotic monkeys by 39 +/- 11% and 44 +/- 10% (mean +/- SEM), respectively. Infusion of 30 ng/min U46619 did not alter cerebral blood flow but increased the pressure gradient from the aorta to the pial artery, which is an index of large-artery resistance, in atherosclerotic monkeys. U46619 had no effect on blood flow to the eye in normal monkeys but decreased blood flow to the retina and choroid by 71 +/- 14% and 53 +/- 13%, respectively, in atherosclerotic monkeys. Thus, atherosclerosis potentiates the constrictor responses of large cerebral arteries to thromboxane and the responses of blood vessels of the eye to thromboxane and serotonin.