1
|
Vollbracht C, McGregor GP, Kraft K. Supraphysiological vitamin B12 serum concentrations without supplementation: the pitfalls of interpretation. QJM 2020; 113:619-620. [PMID: 31251363 PMCID: PMC7550708 DOI: 10.1093/qjmed/hcz164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
|
2
|
de Vries A, Engels F, Henricks PAJ, Leusink-Muis T, McGregor GP, Braun A, Groneberg DA, Dessing MC, Nijkamp FP, Fischer A. Airway hyper-responsiveness in allergic asthma in guinea-pigs is mediated by nerve growth factor via the induction of substance P: a potential role for trkA. Clin Exp Allergy 2007; 36:1192-200. [PMID: 16961720 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2222.2006.02549.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The neurotrophin nerve growth factor (NGF) has been implicated as a mediator in allergic asthma. Direct evidence that inhibition of NGF-induced activation of neurotrophin receptors leads to improvement of airway symptoms is lacking. We therefore studied the effects of inhibitors of NGF signal transduction on the development of airway hyper-responsiveness (AHR) and pulmonary inflammation in a guinea-pig model for allergic asthma. METHODS Airway responsiveness to the contractile agonist histamine was measured in vivo in guinea-pigs that were sensitized and challenged with ovalbumin (OVA). Inflammatory cell influx and NGF levels were determined in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF). Substance P, a key mediator of inflammation, was measured in lung tissue by radioimmunoassay, while substance P immunoreactive neurons in nodose ganglia were measured by immunohistochemistry. RESULTS OVA challenge induced an AHR after 24 h in OVA-sensitized guinea-pigs. This coincided with an increase in the amount of NGF in BALF. Simultaneously, an increase in the percentage of substance P immunoreactive neurons in the nodose ganglia and an increase in the amount of substance P in lung tissue were found. We used tyrosine kinase inhibitors to block the signal transduction of the high-affinity NGF receptor, tyrosine kinase A (trkA). Treatment with the tyrosine kinase inhibitors (K252a or tyrphostin AG879) both inhibited the development of AHR, and prevented the increase in substance P in the nodose ganglia and lung tissue completely whereas both inhibitors had no effect on baseline airway resistance. Neither treatment with K252a or tyrphostin AG879 changed the influx of inflammatory cells in the BALF due to allergen challenge. CONCLUSIONS We conclude that substance P plays a role in the induction of AHR in our model for allergic asthma which is most likely mediated by NGF. As both tyrosine kinase inhibitors AG879 and K252a show a similar inhibitory effect on airway function after allergen challenge, although both tyrosine kinase inhibitors exhibit different non-specific inhibitory effects on targets other than trkA tyrosine kinases, it is likely that the induction of substance P derived from sensory nerves is mediated by NGF via its high-affinity receptor trkA.
Collapse
|
3
|
Lehr HA, Germann G, McGregor GP, Migeod F, Roesen P, Tanaka H, Uhlig C, Biesalski HK. Consensus meeting on "Relevance of parenteral vitamin C in acute endothelial dependent pathophysiological conditions (EDPC)". Eur J Med Res 2006; 11:516-26. [PMID: 17182364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The 22 supersetnd Hohenheim Consensus Workshop took place in at the University of Stuttgart-Hohenheim. The subject of this conference was vitamin C and its role in the treatment of endothelial dysfunction. Scientists, who had published and reviewed scientific and regulatory papers on that topic were invited, among them basic researchers, toxicologists, clinicians and nutritionists. The participants were presented with eleven questions, which were discussed and answered at the workshop, with the aim of summarising the current state of knowledge. The explicatory text accompanying the short answers was produced and agreed on after the conference and was backed up by corresponding references. The therapeutic relevance of administration of the physiological antioxidant vitamin C in high parenteral doses in Endothelial Dependent Pathophysiological Conditions (EDPC) was discussed. Endothelial dysfunction is defined as including disturbed endothelial dependant relaxation of resistance vessels, breakdown of the microvascular endothelial barrier and/or loss of anti-adhesive function. It occurs in severe burn injury, intoxications, acute hyperglycemia, sepsis, trauma, and ischemic-reperfusion tissue injury and is induced by oxidative stress. Reduced plasma ascorbate levels are a hallmark of oxidative stress and occur in severe burns, sepsis, severe trauma, intoxication, chemotherapy/radiotherapy and organ transplantation. Vitamin C directly enhances the activity of nitric oxide synthase, the acyl CoA oxidase system and inhibits the actions of proinflammatory lipids. There is experimental evidence that parenteral high-dose vitamin C restores endothelial function in sepsis. In vitro, supraphysiological concentrations (> 1mM) of ascorbate restore nitric oxide bioavailability and endothelial function. Only parenterally, can enough vitamin C be administered to combat oxidative stress. There is no evidence that parenteral vitamin C exerts prooxidant effects in humans. Theoretical concerns in relation to competitive interactions between vitamin C and glucose cellular uptake are probably only relevant for oxidised vitamin C (dehydroascorbate).
Collapse
|
4
|
Fischer A, Springer J, Dinh QT, Wagner S, Subramamiam A, McGregor GP, Groneberg DA. BDNF-Überexpression führt zu einer veränderten Reaktivität von Bronchialgefäßen gegenüber Neurokinin A. Pneumologie 2005. [DOI: 10.1055/s-2005-864476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
|
5
|
Springer J, Amadesi S, Trevisani M, Harrison S, Dinh QT, McGregor GP, Fischer A, Geppetti P, Groneberg DA. Effects of alpha calcitonin gene-related peptide in human bronchial smooth muscle and pulmonary artery. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2005; 118:127-34. [PMID: 15003828 DOI: 10.1016/j.regpep.2003.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2003] [Revised: 11/14/2003] [Accepted: 11/28/2003] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Although airway and pulmonary vessel tone are regulated predominantly by cholinergic and adrenergic impulses, biologically active peptides such as calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) may significantly influence human smooth muscle tone in normal and pathophysiological states. In the present study, the expression of CGRP and its receptor CGRPR-1 and the biological effect of the peptide were investigated in human airways and pulmonary arteries. Immunohistochemistry revealed the presence of CGRP in human airway nerves and neuro-epithelial cells, whereas the receptor was found in epithelial cells and smooth muscle myocytes of the bronchi and in pulmonary artery endothelium. On precontracted bronchi (3-4 mm in diameter) alpha-CGRP (0.01-10 nM) caused a concentration-dependent contraction on epithelium-denuded bronchi, whereas no significant effect was recorded in bronchi with intact epithelium. In pulmonary arteries (2-6 mm in diameter), alpha-CGRP caused a concentration-dependent relaxation of endothelium intact and denuded vessels. Pre-treatment with indomethacin, but not with l-NAME, prevented the relaxation induced by alpha-CGRP in pulmonary arteries suggesting that prostaglandins but not nitric oxide (NO) are involved in the intracellular signal transduction pathway. The effects induced by alpha-CGRP in bronchi and vessels were prevented by application of the antagonist CGRP((8-37)). In summary, the present studies examined the biological function of CGRP in human airways and demonstrated a constrictory effect of CGRP only in epithelium-denuded airway smooth muscle indicating an alteration of CGRP airway effects in respiratory tract pathological states with damaged epithelium such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or bronchial asthma.
Collapse
MESH Headings
- Acetylcholine/pharmacology
- Bronchi/chemistry
- Bronchi/drug effects
- Bronchi/physiology
- Calcitonin Gene-Related Peptide/analysis
- Calcitonin Gene-Related Peptide/pharmacology
- Calcitonin Gene-Related Peptide/physiology
- Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
- Endothelium, Vascular/chemistry
- Endothelium, Vascular/physiology
- Epithelium/chemistry
- Epithelium/physiology
- Humans
- Immunohistochemistry
- In Vitro Techniques
- Indomethacin/pharmacology
- Muscle Contraction/drug effects
- Muscle Relaxation/drug effects
- Muscle, Smooth/chemistry
- Muscle, Smooth/drug effects
- Muscle, Smooth/physiology
- Muscle, Smooth, Vascular/drug effects
- Muscle, Smooth, Vascular/physiology
- Myocytes, Smooth Muscle/chemistry
- NG-Nitroarginine Methyl Ester/pharmacology
- Nerve Fibers/chemistry
- Peptide Fragments/pharmacology
- Phenylephrine/pharmacology
- Pulmonary Artery/chemistry
- Pulmonary Artery/drug effects
- Pulmonary Artery/physiology
- Receptors, Calcitonin Gene-Related Peptide/analysis
Collapse
|
6
|
Chottová Dvoráková M, Kuncová J, Pfeil U, McGregor GP, Svíglerová J, Slavíková J, Kummer W. Cardiomyopathy in streptozotocin-induced diabetes involves intra-axonal accumulation of calcitonin gene-related peptide and altered expression of its receptor in rats. Neuroscience 2005; 134:51-8. [PMID: 15951122 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2005.03.058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2004] [Revised: 03/04/2005] [Accepted: 03/04/2005] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) is a vasorelaxant and positive inotropic and chronotropic peptide that binds to the calcitonin receptor-like receptor. In the heart, upon stimulation CGRP is released from sensory nerve terminals and improves cardiac perfusion and function. In the present study, we investigated alterations in the components of the CGRP signaling system during development of diabetic cardiomyopathy. Rats received a single injection of streptozotocin. Four, 8, and 16 weeks thereafter cardiac CGRP content (radioimmunoassay), calcitonin receptor-like receptor expression (by real-time RT-PCR), and CGRP and calcitonin receptor-like receptor tissue distribution (immunohistochemistry) were assessed. CGRP content of atria and ventricles progressively increased during the 4 months following streptozotocin-treatment, while the distribution of CGRP-immunoreactive fibers was not visibly altered. Conversely, cardiac expression of calcitonin receptor-like receptor initially (4 weeks after treatment) increased but then gradually declined to 47% of control levels in both atria after 16 weeks. These quantitative changes were not associated with altered cellular distribution patterns (primarily in venous and capillary endothelium). Since sensory neurons have been reported to decrease expression of the CGRP precursor in the course of diabetes, the intra-axonal accumulation of CGRP observed here reflects impaired release, which, coupled with the down-regulation of its cognate receptor, calcitonin receptor-like receptor, may contribute to the well-documented impairment of cardioprotective functions in diabetes.
Collapse
|
7
|
Springer J, Wagner S, Subramamiam A, McGregor GP, Groneberg DA, Fischer A. BDNF-overexpression regulates the reactivity of small pulmonary arteries to neurokinin A. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2004; 118:19-23. [PMID: 14759552 DOI: 10.1016/j.regpep.2003.10.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2003] [Revised: 10/09/2003] [Accepted: 10/13/2003] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is a key modulator during the development of jugular and nodose ganglia neurons, which represent the origin of a large proportion of the sensory innervation of the lung. It belongs to the family of neurotrophins, which have been shown to induce the expression of tachykinins. To assess the interactions of BDNF and the tachykinin neurokinin A (NKA) in small pulmonary vessels, BDNF-transgenic mice were examined for tachykinin contents in the airways, heart, trigeminal ganglion and jugular and nodose ganglion complex (JNC) using reverse phase HPLC (rpHPLC) and radioimmunoassay. BDNF-overexpression led to increased NKA levels in the heart and the JNC, whereas only slightly enhanced levels in the trigeminal ganglion were detected. Lower NKA levels were found in the lung. To assess vasoreactivity in small arteries, precision cut lung slices were subjected to videomorphometry and the response to NKA was examined, which showed significantly stronger effects in the BDNF-transgenic mice, while NK-2 receptor mRNA expression, assayed by real-time RT-PCR, was reduced. In conclusion, BDNF-overexpression results in decreased levels of NKA in the lung with subsequently increased NKA-sensitivity of small arteries. These findings point to a modulatory role of neurotrophins in small respiratory vessel tone regulation.
Collapse
|
8
|
Benes L, Kappus C, McGregor GP, Bertalanffy H, Mennel HD, Hagner S. The immunohistochemical expression of calcitonin receptor-like receptor (CRLR) in human gliomas. J Clin Pathol 2004; 57:172-6. [PMID: 14747444 PMCID: PMC1770218 DOI: 10.1136/jcp.2003.12997] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gliomas are the most common primary tumours of the central nervous system and exhibit rapid growth that is associated with neovascularisation. Adrenomedullin is an important tumour survival factor in human carcinogenesis. It has growth promoting effects on gliomas, and blockade of its actions has been experimentally shown to reduce the growth of glioma tissues and cell lines. There is some evidence that the calcitonin receptor-like receptor (CRLR) mediates the tumorigenic actions of adrenomedullin. AIM To determine whether CRLR is expressed in human gliomas and the probable cellular targets of adrenomedullin. METHODS Biopsies from 95 human gliomas of varying grade were processed for immunohistochemical analysis using a previously developed and characterised antibody to CRLR. RESULTS All tumour specimens were positive for CRLR. As previously found in normal peripheral tissues, CRLR immunostaining was particularly intense in the endothelial cells. This was evident in all the various vascular conformations that were observed, and which are typical of gliomas. In addition, clear immunostaining of tumour cells with astrocyte morphology was observed. These were preferentially localised around vessels. CONCLUSIONS This study has shown for the first time that the CRLR protein is present in human glioma tissue. The expression of the receptor in endothelial cells and in astrocytic tumour cells is consistent with the evidence that its endogenous ligand, adrenomedullin, may influence glioma growth by means of both direct mitogenic and indirect angiogenic effects. CRLR may be a valuable target for effective therapeutic intervention in these malignant tumours.
Collapse
|
9
|
Thum A, Hupe-Sodmann K, Göke R, Voigt K, Göke B, McGregor GP. Endoproteolysis by isolated membrane peptidases reveal metabolic stability of glucagon-like peptide-1 analogs, exendins-3 and -4. Exp Clin Endocrinol Diabetes 2002; 110:113-8. [PMID: 12012270 DOI: 10.1055/s-2002-29087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
Abstract
These in vitro studies aimed to characterize the pattern and the kinetics of endoproteolysis of the insulinotropic hormone glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and related peptides by native ectopeptidases. Peptides were incubated with isolated rat or pig kidney brush-border microvilli membranes, which are a rich source of the ectopeptidases that are responsible for the post-secretory metabolism of peptide hormones. The proteolytic products were separated by reversed-phase HPLC column chromatography and characterised by molecular mass and primary structure. The relative importance of specific peptidases was established by measuring the effects of specific peptidase inhibitors on the kinetics of proteolysis. Dipeptidyl-peptidase-IV was found to be rate-limiting in the endoproteolysis of GLP-1. GLP-1 homologs, exendins-3 and -4, exhibited exceptional stability in the presence of isolated kidney microvilli membranes. Our finding that exendin-4 is several orders of magnitude more stable than GLP-1 and Ser-8-GLP-1 is especially noteworthy given this peptide's widely reported insulinotropic potency.
Collapse
|
10
|
Hagner S, Haberberger RV, Overkamp D, Hoffmann R, Voigt KH, McGregor GP. Expression and distribution of calcitonin receptor-like receptor in human hairy skin. Peptides 2002; 23:109-16. [PMID: 11814625 DOI: 10.1016/s0196-9781(01)00586-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Calcitonin gene-related peptide and adrenomedullin exert potent effects in skin but their cellular targets are unknown. This study aimed to identify the cellular location of calcitonin receptor-like receptor (CRLR) which is pharmacologically identical to CGRP receptor-1, a putative molecular target of CGRP and adrenomedullin. RT-PCR analysis of human hairy skin revealed the presence of CRLR mRNA and immunohistochemical analysis, employing a previously characterized polyclonal antibody raised to CRLR, provided novel evidence of the cellular distribution of CRLR. Extensive and specific CRLR-immunostaining was detected in arteriolar smooth muscle and venular endothelium and is consistent with CGRP's putative role in neurogenic inflammation. Novel targets for CGRP and/or adrenomedullin were identified, including capillary endothelium, hair follicles and sweat glands.
Collapse
|
11
|
Abstract
It has long been a mystery of oxytocin research that males have similar levels of the hormone in their blood as females, but there is no known function associated with this. This review brings together some diverse literature to point out a possible role of oxytocin in the context of stress and sexuality.
Collapse
|
12
|
Byrne MM, McGregor GP, Barth P, Rothmund M, Göke B, Arnold R. Intestinal proliferation and delayed intestinal transit in a patient with a GLP-1-, GLP-2- and PYY-producing neuroendocrine carcinoma. Digestion 2001; 63:61-8. [PMID: 11173902 DOI: 10.1159/000051874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Glucagon-like peptides (GLP) 1 and 2 are hormones derived from the post-translational processing of proglucagon in the intestinal L cells that influence intestinal motility and small bowel growth, respectively. We describe a patient with a neuroendocrine tumor of unknown primary origin with peritoneal carcinomatosis and diffuse liver metastases, who presented with constipation and nocturnal itching for over 3 years. Small bowel follow-through showed decreased small intestinal motility and marked intestinal hypertrophy. Biopsies from mesenterial lymph nodes showed, histologically, a well-differentiated neuroendocrine tumor (G1), with positive immunostaining for chromogranin A, GLP-1, GLP-2 and polypeptide YY (PYY). Jejunal biopsy demonstrated marked intestinal mucosal hypertrophy. HPLC analysis combined with RIA of tumor and serum extracts revealed that the tumor was producing and releasing fasting levels of GLP-1 of 738+/-20.7 pg/ml (normal levels (nl) <100 pg/ml), GLP-2 of 3,150+/-9 pg/ml (nl <100 pg/ml) as well as PYY 550 pg/ml (nl <100 pg/ml). Octreotide administration decreased levels of GLP-1 and GLP-2 and reduced small intestinal transit time from 150 to 50 min. However, tumor growth was not inhibited by octreotide, interferon or dacarbazine therapy and the patient died 8 months later. This is the first case report demonstrating the overproduction of GLP-1, GLP-2 and PYY from an neuroendocrine tumor, in a patient with intestinal hypertrophy and delayed intestinal transit time.
Collapse
|
13
|
Fehm HL, Smolnik R, Kern W, McGregor GP, Bickel U, Born J. The melanocortin melanocyte-stimulating hormone/adrenocorticotropin(4-10) decreases body fat in humans. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2001; 86:1144-8. [PMID: 11238499 DOI: 10.1210/jcem.86.3.7298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The control of body fat is a prominent factor in human health. Animal studies have indicated a homeostatic central nervous system regulation of body fat with particular involvement of the melanocortin receptor pathway. This study provides evidence for a similar role for melanocortins in the long-term control of fat stores in humans. Thirty-six normal weight humans were assigned to one of three experimental groups. After a 4-week baseline, one group was treated with MSH/ACTH(4-10) (MSH/ACTH(4-10)) representing the core sequence of all melanocortins. Another group received desacetyl-alphaMSH, a selective agonist of the brain melanocortin-4 receptor, which shares the 4-10 sequence with MSH/ACTH(4-10). The third group received placebo. Treatments were given intranasally twice daily for 6 weeks, at equimolar doses (MSH/ACTH(4-10), 0.5 mg; desacetyl-alphaMSH, 0.84 mg). Body weight, body composition, and plasma hormone concentrations were measured before and after treatment. MSH/ACTH(4-10) reduced body fat, on the average, by 1.68 kg (P < 0.05) and body weight by 0.79 kg (P < 0.001). Concurrently, plasma leptin levels were decreased by 24% (P < 0.02), and insulin levels were decreased by 20% (P< 0.05) after MSH/ACTH(4-10). Changes after desacetyl-alphaMSH remained nonsignificant. The finding of reduced body adiposity after MSH/ACTH(4-10) confirms and extends to the human the findings of animal models indicating an essential role of the hypothalamic melanocortin system in body weight control.
Collapse
|
14
|
Hagner S, Haberberger R, Kummer W, Springer J, Fischer A, Böhm S, Göke B, McGregor GP. Immunohistochemical detection of calcitonin gene-related peptide receptor (CGRPR)-1 in the endothelium of human coronary artery and bronchial blood vessels. Neuropeptides 2001; 35:58-64. [PMID: 11346311 DOI: 10.1054/npep.2000.0844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The potent vasodilatory peptide, calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) is present in the innervation of vascular tissue. The actions of CGRP occur via a receptor, CGRP receptor(R)-1, which is also a target for the cardioprotective peptide adrenomedullin. The human version of the pharmacologically-defined CGRPR-1 has been cloned but its distribution and cellular location is unknown. A rabbit antibody was generated to a synthetic peptide that corresponds to the C-terminus of human CGRPR-1 Immunochemical analysis of the human cell-line, SK-N-MC, which exhibits functional expression of the CGRPR-1 confirmed the antibody's specificity. The antiserum revealed specific staining in the endothelium of human coronary arteries. The vascular smooth muscle and ventricular myocardium were not immunoreactive. In bronchial blood vessels CGRPR-1-immunoreactivity was detected in the endothelium of the venules and not in the arterioles, which is particularly relevant for elucidating the putative role of CGRP in inflammation in this tissue.
Collapse
|
15
|
Fiskerstrand CE, Newey P, McGregor GP, Gerrard L, Millan F, Quinn JP. A role for Octamer binding protein motifs in the regulation of the proximal preprotachykinin-A promoter. Neuropeptides 2000; 34:348-54. [PMID: 11162291 DOI: 10.1054/npep.2000.0828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
We have recently developed cell line models that express the endogenous rat preprotachykinin-A (rPPT) gene and support reporter gene expression directed by the rPPT promoter. These are the neuronal derived cell line NF2C and the pancreatic cell lines RINm5F and a derivative RIN-1027-B2. Reporter gene activity in these cell lines is similar to that observed in primary cultures of rat dorsal root ganglion neurons. Analysis of reporter gene expression supported by various fragments of the rPPT promoter demonstrated that although -865 to +92 supported expression, addition of fragments between +92 and +500 led to repression of expression. Two previously defined octamer binding motifs, present both 5' and 3' of the major transcriptional start site, have been postulated to be potential enhancers of rPPT activity and we have now used these cell lines to determine the role of these regions in the rPPT promoter. Site specific mutagenesis of these elements has shown not only that both sites are potential enhancers of gene expression but also that the 3' element binds multiple factors, of which at least one has repressor function. Binding of this repressor protein over or adjacent to the 3' octamer binding protein site leads to the observed repression of promoter activity in the -865 to +500 construct relative to the to -865 to +92 the fragment.
Collapse
|
16
|
Peiser C, McGregor GP, Lang RE. Leptin receptor expression and suppressor of cytokine signaling transcript levels in high-fat-fed rats. Life Sci 2000; 67:2971-81. [PMID: 11133009 DOI: 10.1016/s0024-3205(00)00884-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Several lines of evidence suggest that obese individuals have a higher set point for body weight regulation relative to lean subjects. Since obese rodents and humans have high serum levels of leptin, it has been hypothesized that this may be the result of an insensitivity to this weight reducing hormone. In this experiment we assessed whether feeding of a high-fat diet to rats affects leptin receptor (OB-R) transcript levels or induces up-regulation of the suppressors of leptin/cytokine induced signaling, SOCS-3 and PIAS-3. We found that despite a significant weight gain associated with markedly increased circulating leptin levels neither OB-R gene expression nor SOCS-3 or PIAS-3 mRNA levels were significantly altered in the high-fat fed rats. This was in contrast to control experiments where administration of exogenous leptin induced a several-fold increase in SOCS-3. It is concluded that high-caloric food intake per se is not sufficient to provoke suppression of leptin signaling via these factors in animals without genetic predisposition to obesity.
Collapse
|
17
|
Peiser C, McGregor GP, Lang RE. Binding and internalization of leptin by porcine choroid plexus cells in culture. Neurosci Lett 2000; 283:209-12. [PMID: 10754224 DOI: 10.1016/s0304-3940(00)00942-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Leptin is an adipocyte derived hormone with profound behavioural and metabolic effects exerted by both central and peripheral sites of action. One of its targets in the central nervous system appears to be the epithelial cells of the choroid plexus where leptin receptor (OB-R) expression is particularly high. The most abundant receptor subtype at this site is OB-Ra which is truncated at its intracellular part and has been suggested to serve functions such as leptin transport or clearance. The choroid plexus may thus be a site where receptor mediated exchange of leptin between cerebrospinal fluid and blood takes place. The study here shows that porcine plexus epithelia preserve their ability of OB-R expression when grown in culture. In addition, our experiments suggest that leptin is rapidly internalized upon binding to these cells supporting the view of an OB-R mediated transport of leptin across the choroid plexus.
Collapse
|
18
|
Herrmann-Rinke C, McGregor GP, Göke B. Calcitonin gene-related peptide potently stimulates glucagon-like peptide-1 release in the isolated perfused rat ileum. Peptides 2000; 21:431-7. [PMID: 10793228 DOI: 10.1016/s0196-9781(00)00167-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The post-prandial release of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) from the distal gut appears to involve a neural reflex that arises from the proximal gut. The neuropeptide calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP)'s potent stimulatory effect on GLP-1 release was characterized, using the isolated vascularly perfused rat ileum. CGRP, but not its homolog amylin, induced a dose-dependent and sustained release of GLP-1. This effect was greatly reduced in the presence of CGRP(8-37), was abolished by galanin, potentiated by luminal glucose and unaffected by atropine. GIP enhanced, but did not potentiate, this effect. The results reveal how CGRP is involved in the complex regulation of GLP-1 release.
Collapse
|
19
|
Ozdemir FA, Berghöfer P, Göke R, Göke B, McGregor GP. Specific calcitonin gene-related peptide binding sites present throughout rat intestine. Peptides 1999; 20:1361-6. [PMID: 10612452 DOI: 10.1016/s0196-9781(99)00142-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Calcitonin gene-related peptide is found extensively in the innervation of the intestine and has potent pharmacological effects on secretion, blood flow, and motility. Although essential for assessing the physiological significance of CGRP, detailed information concerning the distribution of its receptor(s) within the intestine is lacking. By using autoradiographic methods, we identified specific binding sites for 125I-tyr0-CGRP-alpha in all regions of the rat small and large intestine. Particularly dense saturatable binding is observed within the lamina propria. There is moderate saturatible binding in the myenteric plexuses. These findings clearly support the notion that CGRP has a neuroeffector role in intestinal functions.
Collapse
|
20
|
Fiskerstrand CE, Newey P, Ebrahimi B, Gerrard L, Harrison P, McGregor GP, Quinn JP. Novel cell lines for the analysis of preprotachykinin A gene expression identify a repressor domain 3' of the major transcriptional start site. Biochem J 1999; 341 ( Pt 3):847-52. [PMID: 10417352 PMCID: PMC1220426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/13/2023]
Abstract
Until now, no clonal cells have been identified that support the expression of a marker gene expressed from the rat preprotachykinin A (rPPT) promoter. We have analysed recently available cell lines that are candidates for supporting reporter gene expression directed by the rPPT promoter. These are the neuronal-derived cell line NF2C and the pancreatic cell lines RINm5F and a derivative RIN-1027-B2. The NF2C line was derived from the brain homogenate of a transgenic animal in which a temperature-sensitive simian virus 40 large T antigen was expressed from a neurofilament promoter. All three lines are able to support expression of a reporter gene directed by a fragment of the 5' rPPT promoter. Analysis of reporter gene expression supported by various fragments of the rPPT promoter demonstrated that although -865 to +92 bp supported expression, the addition of fragments between +92 and +447 bp led to repression of expression. Subsequent analysis of reporter gene constructs microinjected into primary cultures of dorsal root ganglion neurons (DRG) confirmed the existence of this repressor domain. This repression could be relieved totally in both RIN cell lines and partly in NF2C cells by mutating residues between +373 and +396 bp. This indicates that these cell lines support PPT promoter activity similar to that observed in DRG and determines a novel repressor domain within the promoter.
Collapse
|
21
|
Steinhoff M, McGregor GP, Radleff-Schlimme A, Steinhoff A, Jarry H, Schmidt WE. Identification of pituitary adenylate cyclase activating polypeptide (PACAP) and PACAP type 1 receptor in human skin: expression of PACAP-38 is increased in patients with psoriasis. REGULATORY PEPTIDES 1999; 80:49-55. [PMID: 10235634 DOI: 10.1016/s0167-0115(99)00010-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
Morphological and biochemical evidence is presented for the presence of pituitary adenylate cyclase activating peptide (PACAP) and the high-affinity PACAP-1 receptor subtype in human skin. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed PACAP-immunoreactivity (IR) to be present predominantly in dermal nerve fibers close to the dermal-epidermal border, hair follicles, blood vessels and sweat glands. Radioimmunoassay, chromatographic analysis and Western blotting revealed this PACAP-IR to be PACAP-38 whereas the second molecular form, PACAP-27, is absent. In tissue of psoriasis patients significantly more PACAP-38 protein was detected as compared to normal skin. Using RT-PCR, the expression of a high-affinity PACAP-1 receptor in human skin was observed. These results indicate a possible role for PACAP-38 in inflammatory processes of psoriasis.
Collapse
|
22
|
McGregor GP, Göke R, Göke B. Biological actions of glucagon-like peptide(GLP)-2 revealed--how pluripotential is the glucagon gene? Exp Clin Endocrinol Diabetes 1998; 106:25-8. [PMID: 9516055 DOI: 10.1055/s-0029-1211945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Recently published data from the group of Drucker indicate that glucagon-like peptide (GLP)-2 induces intestinal epithelial proliferation. This is the first biological effect assigned to this proglucagon-derived peptide (PGDP) and represents, perhaps, the most convincing evidence, so far, to support the existing hypothesis that PGDPs can act to promote intestinal epithelial growth and adaptation. Also, these findings prompt certain clinical considerations. Here, we summarise the reported effects of GLP-2 and highlight the important questions which need to be addressed with special reference to the clinical implications.
Collapse
|
23
|
Sheikh SP, Feldthus N, Orkild H, Göke R, McGregor GP, Turner D, Møller M, Stuenkel EL. Neuropeptide Y2 receptors on nerve endings from the rat neurohypophysis regulate vasopressin and oxytocin release. Neuroscience 1998; 82:107-15. [PMID: 9483507 DOI: 10.1016/s0306-4522(97)00256-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Neuropeptide Y and peptide YY are important central and peripheral modulators of cardiovascular and neuroendocrine functions, that act through multiple receptor subtypes, Y1 through Y5. A neuropeptide Y-binding site of the Y2 type was characterized by ligand-binding studies in isolated nerve terminals from the rat neurohypophysis. Functionally, neuropeptide Y and peptide YY dose-dependently triggered arginine 8-vasopressin and oxytocin release from perfused isolated terminals, and potentiated the arginine-8-vasopressin release induced by depolarization. Osmotic stimulation by salt loading of rats for two and seven days caused a more than three-fold increase in the neuropeptide Y content of the nerve endings. However, the Y2 receptor expression and arginine-8-vasopressin content declined, showing that the neuropeptide Y system is dynamic and suggesting that it plays a physiological role in salt and water homeostasis. Two sets of observations suggest the arginine-8-vasopressin release by neuropeptide Y may not be explained by neuropeptide Y effects on intracellular Ca2+. First, absence of Ca2+ from the perfusion medium did not affect the arginine-8-vasopressin release, and secondly neuropeptide Y did not change intraterminal Ca2+ concentrations. Pretreatment with pertussis toxin blocked arginine-8-vasopressin secretion by neuropeptide Y, suggesting activation of Gi or Go heterotrimeric G-proteins are required for secretion. It is concluded, that the nerve endings of the neurohypophysis contain a complete neuropeptide Y system with ligand and receptors. Neuropeptide Y may act in an autocrine fashion via activation of Y2 neuropeptide Y receptors to stimulate the release of vasopressin and oxytocin via a Gi/Go dependent secretory mechanism.
Collapse
|
24
|
Decker B, Vadokas B, Kutschenreuter U, Golenhofen K, Voigt K, McGregor GP, Mandrek K. Action of FMRFamide-like peptides on porcine gastrointestinal motility in vitro. Peptides 1997; 18:1531-7. [PMID: 9437713 DOI: 10.1016/s0196-9781(97)00239-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Mechanical activity was recorded in circular and longitudinal smooth muscle preparations isolated from extensive regions of the porcine gastrointestinal tract in response to the FMRFamide-like neuropeptides F8Famide and A18Famide. In all preparations, the peptides were about equipotent in producing phasic contractions or enhancing spontaneous activity. The most prominent responses were observed in jejunal longitudinal strips which were on the average 91% (+/- 4% SEM, n = 15; 10(-6) M) of the histamine (10(-5) M) responses. The peptide-induced phasic activity was completely abolished by nifedipine but was unaffected by tetrodotoxin, atropine, phentolamine, yohimbine, phenoxybenzamine, propranolol, methysergide, cimetidine, indomethacin, levallorphane or naloxone. Both peptides enhanced acetylcholine-induced contractions. However, bovine ileum and guinea-pig taenia coli was not affected by these peptides. The results indicate that F8F- and A18F-amide contract porcine gastrointestinal smooth muscle by acting directly via non-opioid receptors on L-type calcium channels. In addition an increase of the sensitivity to cholinergic stimulation occurs.
Collapse
|
25
|
Hupe-Sodmann K, Göke R, Göke B, Thole HH, Zimmermann B, Voigt K, McGregor GP. Endoproteolysis of glucagon-like peptide (GLP)-1 (7-36) amide by ectopeptidases in RINm5F cells. Peptides 1997; 18:625-32. [PMID: 9213354 DOI: 10.1016/s0196-9781(97)00123-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
This study concerns whether the pancreatic beta cell expresses cell-surface ectopeptidases that are capable of proteolysis of peptide hormones and neuropeptides that modify glucose-dependent insulin release. These biochemical investigations of the RINm5F cell line found that these cells express ectopeptidases. We have characterized the limited endoproteolysis of GLP-1 (7-36) amide that occurs in the presence of RINm5F plasma membranes. The products and the sensitivity to specific peptidase inhibitors of the proteolysis is characteristic of neutral endopeptidase (NEP) 24.11. Vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP), pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating peptide (PACAP), amylin, glucagon, glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP), and exendin-4 also undergo proteolysis in the presence of RIN cell membranes. NEP 24.11-activity in RIN cell membranes was confirmed using a specific fluorogenic assay, by histochemistry, and by comparison with the recombinant enzyme with respect to the kinetics of proteolysis of GLP-1 (7-36) amide and of a fluorogenic substrate. Specific fluorogenic assays revealed the presence of aminopeptidase N and the absence of aminopeptidase A and of dipeptidylpeptidase IV.
Collapse
|