Comparing lung oscillometry with a novel, portable flow interrupter device to measure lung mechanics

In the community setting, assessing spirometry in school-aged children is often limited by the unavailability of respirology technicians at the point-of-care. We developed a new technique called the Rapid Expiratory Occlusion Method (REOM) that measures respiratory resistance during normal breathing, without specialized training. The aim was to examine the concordance between respiratory resistance measured with the REOM and respiratory resistance measured by oscillometry on the tremoflo. Children aged 6-17 yr, with or without asthma, received respiratory resistance testing on the tremoflo, then on the REOM. Three to five replicates with a coefficient of variation ≤15% were obtained on each instrument; the primary outcome was the concordance between the average respiratory resistance on the REOM and that measured at 5 Hz (R₅) on the tremoflo. Thirty-two children (11 girls; 21 boys) were enrolled with a mean age of 11.2 (range 6-17) yr; after excluding two children not meeting reproducibility criteria, 9 healthy controls, 15 controlled asthmatics, and 6 poorly controlled asthmatics were included. Resistance measured on the REOM showed a strong correlation with R₅ measured on the tremoflo (P < 0.0001) with no significant differences on the Bland-Altman analyses. Children and their parents found the REOM easy to use and would consider for home use if recommended by their doctor. With the high concordance between resistance values measured on the REOM and that on the tremoflo combined with perceived ease of use, the REOM appears as a promising means for measuring lung function, thus supporting further testing of other psychometric properties.NEW & NOTEWORTHY We have developed a novel version of the interrupter technique to measure respiratory resistance. The Rapid Expiratory Occlusion Method (REOM) is a small handheld device that measures respiratory resistance and demonstrates excellent correlation with airway oscillometry. With its ease of use, REOM may be promising for use in community practice, patient's homes, and, if paired with a telemedicine application, could enable the healthcare provider to monitor patients in their homes.

Nimodipine inhibits the pressor activity of diaspirin-crosslinked hemoglobin (DCLHb) in the rat

Impaired nitric oxide (NO) activity is associated with an increase in blood pressure in rats. Voltage-regulated calcium channels are believed to participate in this hemodynamic event. To further test this hypothesis, we examined the effect of nimodipine and verapamil (calcium antagonists) on the pressor activity of diaspirin-crosslinked hemoglobin (DCLHb), a well-known NO scavenger, in anesthetized rats. Nimodipine, the most potent of the two calcium antagonists used, was also tested against phenylephrine (alpha1-adrenoceptor agonist). The pressor effect of DCLHb was reduced markedly by nimodipine and verapamil, whereas that elicited by phenylephrine, particularly the tonic phase of its pressor response, was resistant to blockade by nimodipine. The bradycardia and tachycardia associated with the pressor effects of DCLHb and phenylephrine, respectively, were not affected by nimodipine. The pressor effect elicited by DCLHb and its alteration by nimodipine were also examined in rats pretreated with 100% O2. This treatment was found to potentiate the pressor effect of DCLHb. However, this synergism did not impair the inhibitory action of nimodipine towards the pressor activity of DCLHb. Altogether these results suggest that the pressor activity of DCLHb in our animal model might involve the participation of voltage-regulated calcium channels.Key words: hemoglobin, nitric oxide, calcium channels, blood pressure, diaspirin-crosslinked hemoglobin.

Nimodipine inhibits the pressor activity of diaspirin-crosslinked hemoglobin (DCLHb) in the rat

Impaired nitric oxide (NO) activity is associated with an increase in blood pressure in rats. Voltage-regulated calcium channels are believed to participate in this hemodynamic event. To further test this hypothesis, we examined the effect of nimodipine and verapamil (calcium antagonists) on the pressor activity of diaspirin-crosslinked hemoglobin (DCLHb), a well-known NO scavenger, in anesthetized rats. Nimodipine, the most potent of the two calcium antagonists used, was also tested against phenylephrine (alpha1-adrenoceptor agonist). The pressor effect of DCLHb was reduced markedly by nimodipine and verapamil, whereas that elicited by phenylephrine, particularly the tonic phase of its pressor response, was resistant to blockade by nimodipine. The bradycardia and tachycardia associated with the pressor effects of DCLHb and phenylephrine, respectively, were not affected by nimodipine. The pressor effect elicited by DCLHb and its alteration by nimodipine were also examined in rats pretreated with 100% O2. This treatment was found to potentiate the pressor effect of DCLHb. However, this synergism did not impair the inhibitory action of nimodipine towards the pressor activity of DCLHb. Altogether these results suggest that the pressor activity of DCLHb in our animal model might involve the participation of voltage-regulated calcium channels.

Mechanism of the acute pressor effect and bradycardia elicited by diaspirin crosslinked hemoglobin in anesthetized rats

Diaspirin crosslinked hemoglobin (DCLHb) is a chemically stabilized hemoglobin (Hb) that induces an increase in blood pressure and a decrease of heart rate when injected intravenously in some animals. The mechanism by which DCLHb elicits these hemodynamic effects was studied in pentobarbital-anesthetized, vagotomized rats using a variety of drugs known for their inhibitory action towards endogenous hemodynamically active systems. The hypertensive episode elicited by DCLHb (100 or 400 mg.kg-1) was attenuated in animals pretreated with NG-nitro-L-arginine (inhibitor of nitric oxide synthases) throughout the 30-min period of observation, but it was not reduced in those pretreated with a variety of sympatholytic drugs (e.g., prazosin), atropine, BIBP-3226 (neuropeptide Y antagonist), indomethacin, [1-(beta-mercapto-beta,beta-cyclopentanemethylene propionic acid), 2-(0-methyl) tyrosine]-Arg8 vasopressin (vasopressin antagonist), losartan (angiotensin antagonist), bosentan (endothelin antagonist), or L-arginine-(nitric oxide precursor), compared with control animals. With the exception of propranolol and BIBP-3226, none of the aforenamed inhibitors reduced the amplitude of the bradycardia associated with the pressor effect of DCLHb. These results suggest that: (i) the acute (< 30 min) pressor activity of DCLHb in our animal model requires the presence of an endogenous nitric oxide generating system to be expressed; (ii) the bradycardia elicited by DCLHb might involve the participation of neuropeptide Y and (or) its NPY-1 receptors, but it is unlikely to involve a baroreceptor-mediated vagal reflex, at least in our animal model.

Mechanism of the acute pressor effect and bradycardia elicited by diaspirin crosslinked hemoglobin in anesthetized rats

Diaspirin crosslinked hemoglobin (DCLHb) is a chemically stabilizedhemoglobin (Hb) that induces an increase in blood pressure and a decrease of heart rate wheninjected intravenously in some animals. The mechanism by which DCLHb elicits thesehemodynamic effects was studied in pentobarbital-anesthetized, vagotomized rats using a varietyof drugs known for their inhibitory action towards endogenous hemodynamically active systems.The hypertensive episode elicited by DCLHb (100 or 400 mg·kg–1) was attenuatedin animals pretreated with NG-nitro-L-arginine (inhibitor of nitric oxidesynthases) throughout the 30-min period of observation, but it was not reduced in thosepretreated with a variety of sympatholytic drugs (e.g., prazosin), atropine, BIBP-3226(neuropeptide Y antagonist), indomethacin,[1-(Beta-mercapto-Beta,Beta-cyclopentanemethylene propionic acid), 2-(0-methyl)tyrosine]-Arg8 vasopressin (vasopressin antagonist), losartan (angiotensin antagonist),bosentan (endothelin antagonist), or L-arginine- (nitric oxide precursor), compared withcontrol animals. With the exception of propranolol and BIBP-3226, none of the aforenamedinhibitors reduced the amplitude of the bradycardia associated with the pressor effect of DCLHb.These results suggest that: (i) the acute (<30 min) pressor activity of DCLHb inour animal model requires the presence of an endogenous nitric oxide generating system to beexpressed; (ii) the bradycardia elicited by DCLHb might involve the participation ofneuropeptide Y and (or) its NPY-1 receptors, but it is unlikely to involve abaroreceptor-mediated vagal reflex, at least in our animal model.Key words: hemoglobin, nitric oxide, blood pressure, heart rate,DCLHb.

Structural requirements and mechanism of the pressor activity of Leu-Val-Val-hemorphin-7, a fragment of hemoglobin beta-chain in rats

A rat blood pressure assay was used to perform a structure-activity relationship study (SAR) of Leu-Val-Val-hemorphin-7 (LVV-H7), a fragment of hemoglobin (Hb) beta-chain, elucidate the mechanisms of its cardiovascular effects, and test its potential involvement in the pressor activity of diaspirin crosslinked Hb (DCLHb), a recently developed Hb-based oxygen carrier. The SAR study revealed that the C-terminal-Arg-Phe-amino acid sequence of LVV-H7 contained the main determinants of the pressor activity of this peptide. Drug interaction studies using various inhibitory drugs (e.g., phentolamine, clonidine, etc.) and LVV-H7 showed that the pressor effect and tachycardia elicited by LVV-H7 involved the activation of the sympathetic nervous system (SNS). Additional studies using phenytoin (sodium channel blocker), [Tic7]H7(5-7)-NH2 (putative antagonist of receptors for LVV-H7) and H7(5-7)-NH2, an amidated C-terminal fragment of LVV-H7, suggested that LVV-H7 activated the SNS by interacting with specific receptors functionally coupled with phenytoin-sensitive sodium channels. The pressor effect and tachycardia caused by LVV-H7 were potentiated by captopril, suggesting that the angiotensin converting enzyme may contribute to the inactivation of LVV-H7 in rats. The pressor activity of DCLHb, in contrast to that elicited by LVV-H7, was not affected by animal pretreatment with LVV-H7 fragments shown to inhibit the pressor effect of LVV-H7. We conclude that: 1) LVV-H7 is unlikely to mediate the pressor activity of DCLHb in rats; 2) the pressor and tachycardic activities of LVV-H7 are mediated by the SNS; 3) the C-terminal-Arg-Phe-amino acid sequence of LVV-H7 contains the chemical groups responsible for the pressor effect of this peptide in rats; 4) LVV-H7 and FMRF amide-related peptides may share the same mechanism of pressor activity in rats.

Digoxigenin-labeled peptides for the immunological quantification of intracellular signaling proteins: application to the MAP kinase kinase isoform MEK2

Two competitive enzyme immunoassays using digoxigenin-labeled peptides have been developed for the quantification of the protein kinase MEK2 in cell extracts. Rabbit polyclonal antibodies directed against either the amino-terminal or proline-rich amino acid sequences of MEK2 were used for the immunoconcentration of the protein. Anti-digoxigenin Fab fragments labeled with horseradish peroxidase allowed the detection of the immune complexes. Amino-terminal and proline-rich enzyme immunoassays exhibited a sensitivity level of 63 and 71 fmol/mL, respectively, and displayed a half-maximal saturation value of 1320 and 1780 fmol/mL. The intra- and inter-assay coefficients of variation for both assays assessed at three different concentrations of MEK2 were lower than 6% and 12%, respectively. The amount of MEK2 measured by the two methods demonstrated an excellent correlation with the expression level of the protein detected by immunoblot analyses when tested on different cell lysates.

Contribution of angiotensin-converting enzyme to the cardiac metabolism of bradykinin: an interspecies study

The role of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) in the metabolism of bradykinin (BK) has been studied in several tissues. However, and contrary to angiotensin I, the metabolism of BK at the cardiac level has not been investigated. In this study, we define the participation of ACE in the carboxy-terminal degradation of BK in heart membranes of the dog, human, rabbit, and rat. The calculation of the kinetic parameters characterizing the metabolism of BK and the generated des-Arg9-BK can be summarized as follows: the half-life (t1/2) of BK [dog (218 +/- 32 s) > human (143 +/- 9 s) = rat (150 +/- 4 s) > rabbit (22 +/- 2 s)] and of des-Arg9-BK [dog (1,042 +/- 40 s) > human (891 +/- 87 s) > rat (621 +/- 65 s) > rabbit (89 +/- 8 s)] both showed significant differences according to species. Enalaprilat, an ACE inhibitor, significantly prevented the rapid degradation of BK and des-Arg9-BK in all species studied, whereas retrothiorphan, a neutral endopeptidase inhibitor, and losartan, an angiotensin II type I receptor antagonist, did not affect this metabolism. The relative importance of ACE in the cardiac metabolism of BK was species related: dog (68.4 +/- 3.2%) = human (72.2 +/- 2.0%) > rabbit (47.7 +/- 5.0%) = rat (45.3 +/- 3.9%). ACE participation in the metabolism of des-Arg9-BK was as follows: rabbit (57.0 +/- 4.0%) > dog (39.9 +/- 8.8%) = human (25.4 +/- 5.5%) = rat (36.0 +/- 7.0%). The participation of cardiac kininase I (carboxypeptidase M) in the transformation of BK into des-Arg9-BK was minor: human (2.6 +/- 0.1%) > dog (0.9 +/- 0.1%) = rabbit (1.0 +/- 0.1%) = rat (1.0 +/- 0.1%). These results demonstrate that ACE is the major BK-degrading enzyme in cardiac membranes. However, the metabolism of exogenous BK by heart membranes is species dependent. Our observations could explain some discrepancies regarding the contribution of kinins in the cardioprotective effects of ACE inhibitors.

Involvement of endogenous kinins in the pathogenesis of peptidoglycan-induced arthritis in the Lewis rat

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the pathophysiologic roles of endogenous bradykinin (BK) and des-Arg9-BK on local and systemic inflammatory responses in a rat model of acute arthritis induced by peptidoglycan-polysaccharide (PG-APS).

METHODS

Female Lewis rats were injected intraperitoneally with PG-APS. Selective antagonists of B1 (Lys-[Leu8]-des-Arg9-BK) and B2 (Hoe 140) receptors were infused at 500 microg/kg and 5 mg/kg per day for 6 days, starting 3 days before induction of inflammation, with subcutaneous micro-osmotic pumps. The local inflammatory response was assessed by paw edema, joint swelling, and tissue content of BK and des-Arg9-BK. These peptides were measured by highly sensitive and specific chemiluminescent enzyme immunoassays. Systemic inflammatory reaction was evaluated by the hepatic concentration of the type 2 acute-phase protein T-kininogen.

RESULTS

PG-APS induced significant paw edema and joint swelling 24-72 hours after intraperitoneal injection. The maximal responses to PG-APS observed at 72 hours were significantly reduced (31-38%) by the combination of both B1 and B2 receptor antagonists at 5 mg/kg per day. PG-APS induced a significant increase of BK (up to 5.3-fold) and des-Arg9-BK (up to 4.1-fold) 72 hours after challenge. Liver T-kininogen content was increased by 5.3-, 7.7-, and 5.8-fold at 24, 48, and 72 hours, respectively, after PG-APS injection. At 24 hours, Hoe 140 and Lys-[Leu8]-des-Arg9-BK increased liver T-kininogen content by 43% and 45%, respectively, but they had no effect at 72 hours.

CONCLUSION

The results indicate that endogenous kinins are involved in local and systemic acute inflammatory responses, through both B1 and B2 kinin receptors, in the model of PG-APS-induced arthritis.

Cardiovascular effects of Sar-[D-Phe8]des-Arg9-bradykinin, a metabolically protected agonist of B1 receptor for kinins, in the anesthetized rabbit pretreated with a sublethal dose of bacterial lipopolysaccharide

We investigated the mechanism of the hypotensive effect of Sar-[D-Phe8]des-Arg9-bradykinin (BK) in lipopolysaccharide-treated anesthetized rabbits. The study involved pharmacokinetic and hemodynamic measurements and tests of antagonism with various drugs. The rate of elimination of Sar-[D-Phe8]des-Arg9-BK from the rabbit plasma was slower than that of Lys-BK, a naturally occurring B1 agonist. The amplitude of the hypotensive effect of Sar-[D-Phe8]des-Arg9-BK was not affected by pretreatment with indomethacin, diclofenac, dazmegrel, NG-nitro-L-arginine, glibenclamide, MK-886, BN-50739, atropine or propranolol, but its duration was shortened by indomethacin and diclofenac. Sar-[D-Phe8]des-Arg9-BK-induced hypotension was associated with decreases of total peripheral resistance, cardiac output, carotid, mesenteric and femoral blood flow, transient reductions followed by secondary increases of vascular resistance in the carotid and femoral beds, reductions of central venous pressure, but no change of hematocrit. Animal pretreatment with diclofenac or hexamethonium abolished the secondary increases of carotid bed vascular resistance caused by the B1 agonist. These and other results suggest that peripheral vasodilation leading to a decrease of total peripheral resistance and a decrease of cardiac output may both contribute consecutively to the hypotensive effect of Sar-[D-Phe8]des-Arg9-BK in this animal model. Inappropriate compensatory responses to arterial hypotension, prostaglandin release, and slow rate of elimination of Sar-[D-Phe8]des-Arg9-BK from the rabbit plasma, may all be at the basis of the prolonged duration of the hypotension caused by the B1 agonist.

Mechanism of the contractile effect of diaspirin-cross-linked hemoglobin in rat isolated aorta strip denuded of endothelium as revealed using an oil-immersion procedure

Diaspirin-cross-linked hemoglobin (DCLHb) is a chemically modified hemoglobin (Hb) (i.e., alpha-subunits are cross-linked by a covalent bond) currently being tested as a potential oxygen-carrying blood substitute. It was examined for possible vasoactive properties, using the rat isolated aorta strip denuded of endothelium. In this experimental model, DCLHb (1.6-155 microM) was found to be inactive as a vasoconstrictor when added to the Krebs medium but to elicit contractile responses once the Krebs medium containing DCLHb was replaced by mineral oil, a procedure that favors the sequestration of a fixed amount of DCLHb within a substantially reduced volume of extracellular fluid. The contractile activity of DCLHb in our experimental model (i.e., prior exposure of tissues to drugs in the Krebs medium followed by replacement of the Krebs medium by mineral oil) was mimicked by methemoglobin and metmyoglobin, but not by cytochrome c, albumin, hemin, hematin, Fe2+, and a variety of hemorphins. It was abolished by indomethacin, SQ-29548 (prostaglandin H2-thromboxane A2 receptor antagonist), thiourea, or N-2-mercaptopropionylglycine (MCPG), reduced partially by verapamil, but not affected by dazmegrel, MK-886 (leukotriene biosynthesis inhibitor), dimethylsulfoxide, vitamin C or E, deferoxamine, NG-nitro-L-arginine, naloxone, and a variety of other drug receptor antagonists (e.g., prazosin) and protease inhibitors (e.g., pepstatin). Rat aorta strips denuded of endothelium exhibited contractile responses to arachidonic acid added in the Krebs medium (i.e., with no mineral oil added afterwards). Such contractile activity was reduced by SQ-29548, thiourea, or MCPG. Addition of U-46619 (prostaglandin H2-thromboxane A2 mimetic) to the Krebs medium also elicited contractile responses in rat aorta strips denuded of endothelium. Such contractile activity was reduced by SQ-29548, thiourea, or verapamil but not by MCPG. Within the limitations of our experimental approach, these results suggest that (1) the contractile activity of DCLHb in rat aorta strips denuded of endothelium following replacement of the Krebs medium by mineral oil involves the participation of a secondary mediator, which could be a vasoconstrictor metabolite of arachidonic acid; (2) the participation of reactive oxygen species, potential degradation products of DCLHb (e.g., heme, Fe2+, hemorphins), or other mediators in the contractile activity of DCLHb is unlikely; and (3) Ca2+ entry into target cells might be involved in the process by which DCLHb elicits its contractile activity in our experimental model.

Kinin-induced prolongation of action-potential duration in right ventricular muscle from rat: involvement of B1 and B2 receptors

Previous work has shown that, in rat ventricular muscle, bradykinin (BK) causes a dose-dependent increase in action potential duration (APD), an action that may be responsible for APD prolongation by captopril (kininase II). To determine which kinin receptor might be involved in APD prolongation, we studied the effects of B1- and B2-receptor agonists, as well as those of antagonists and mergepta (a kininase I inhibitor) added during BK superfusion. Action potentials were recorded by using the standard glass microelectrode technique in rat ventricular muscle preparations. Action-potential characteristics were compared between preparations superfused with peptide/drug-free Tyrode's solution (control group) and preparations superfused with peptide/drug-containing solution. APD was significantly longer in preparations superfused with BK (10(-8) M) than in the control group. The APD prolongation induced by BK, a known B2-receptor agonist, was significantly reduced by Hoe 140 (a B2 antagonist) and also by Lys[Leu8]des-Arg9-BK (a B1 antagonist), an action presumably related to inhibition of B1 receptor stimulation by the BK metabolite des-Arg9-BK. When mergepta was added in the presence of BK, APD prolongation by BK was significantly reduced, an effect that could have been related to reduced B1-receptor stimulation after inhibition of the endogenous generation of des-Arg9-BK by kininase I. Sar4-[d-Phe8]des-Arg9-BK, a B1-receptor agonist that is not degraded by kininase II, also prolonged APD. We conclude that both B1 and B2 receptors may be involved in APD prolongation induced in rat ventricular muscle preparations.

Bradykinin decreases T-kininogen synthesis in a rat hepatoma cell line: evidence of bradykinin B2-type receptors

Using the rat H4-II-E-C3 hepatoma cell line, we investigated the presence of [125I][Tyr8]BK binding sites and the direct modulation of T-kininogen synthesis, an acute phase protein of inflammation, by bradykinin (BK) analogues. H4-II-E-C3 membrane preparations exhibited [125I][Tyr8]BK binding sites with a Kd of 4 nM and a Bmax of 120 fmol/mg of protein. Des-Arg9-BK showed no affinity (Ki > 10(-4) M) for these sites. The B2 metabolism-resistant and selective agonist [Phe8 psi (CH2-NH)Arg9]BK decreased the T-kininogen concentration in H4-II-E-C3 medium by 23% (p < 0.05). This effect was reversed by coincubation with the B2 antagonist HOE140. The B1 agonist Sar[D-Phe8]des-Arg9-BK and the B1 antagonist Lys[Leu8]des-Arg9-BK did not modify T-kininogen concentrations. The interaction between cytokines and kinins in the modulation of T-kininogen synthesis was also studied. Preincubation of hepatoma cells for 1 h with interleukin-1 alpha (IL-1 alpha) alone reduced T-kininogen concentrations by 37%, and this effect was blocked by co-addition of HOE140. Preincubation with interleukin-6 (IL-6) increased T-kininogen levels by threefold. Coincubation in the presence of the B2 agonist decreased this augmentation by 24%. The latter effect was reversed by co-addition of HOE140. None of the cytokines tested induced a response to the B1 agonist or antagonist under the experimental conditions studied. Overall, these results support the presence of a functional B2 receptor on H4-II-E-C3 cells that modulates T-kininogen synthesis. We suggest that the receptor is involved in vivo in a retroaction loop between kinins and T-kininogen production during inflammation. We speculate that BK could be a mediator in the modulation of acute phase protein synthesis by the cytokines IL-1 alpha and IL-6.

Cloning and pharmacological characterization of the rabbit bradykinin B2 receptor

Degenerate primers, corresponding to consensus sequences of third and sixth transmembrane domains of G protein-coupled receptor superfamily, were used for the polymerase chain reaction amplification and consecutive characterization of G protein-coupled receptors present in cultured rabbit aortic smooth muscle cells. One of the isolated resulting fragments was highly homologous to the corresponding region of the bradykinin (BK) B2 receptor cloned in other species. The polymerase chain reaction fragment was used to screen a rabbit genomic library, which allowed the identification of an intronless 1101-nucleotide open reading frame which codes for a 367-amino acid receptor protein. The rabbit B2 receptor sequence is more than 80% identical to the ones determined in three other species and retain putative glycosylation, palmitoylation and phosphorylation sites. In the rabbit genomic sequence, an acceptor splice sequence was found 8 base pairs upstream of the start codon. Northern blot analysis showed a high expression of a major transcript (4.2 kilobases) in the rabbit kidney and duodenum, and a less abundant expression in other tissues. Southern blot experiments suggest that a single copy of this gene exists in the rabbit genome. The cloned rabbit B2 receptor expressed in COS-1 cells binds [3H]BK in a saturable manner (KD 2.1 nM) and this ligand competes with a series of kinin agonists and antagonist with a rank order consistent with the B2 receptor identity. The insurmountable character of the antagonism exerted by Hoe 140 against BK on the rabbit B2 receptor, previously shown in pharmacological experiments, was confirmed in binding experiments with the cloned receptor expressed in a controlled manner. By contrast, Hoe 140 competed with [3H]BK in a surmountable manner for the human B2 receptor expressed in COS-1 cells. The cloning of the rabbit B2 receptor will be useful notably for the study of the structural basis of antagonist binding and for studies on receptor regulation in a relatively large animal.

Regulation of kinin-induced contraction and DNA synthesis by inflammatory cytokines in the smooth muscle of the rabbit aorta

1. In rabbit aortic rings, the contractile response to kinins is mediated by the B1 receptors for kinins; the response is upregulated from an initial null level in a time- and protein synthesis-dependent manner. Incubation (3 h) with human recombinant interleukin-1 beta (IL-1 beta) selectively amplified the contractile response to the B1 receptor agonist Sar-[D-Phe8]des-Arg9-BK, while it did not affect the contractile effect of other agents (angiotensin II, endothelin-1, phenylephrine). 2. Oncostatin M (OSM), but not macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF), increased the contractile response to the B1 receptor agonist, des-Arg9-bradykinin (des-Arg9-BK). 3. Cultured smooth muscle cells derived from the rabbit aorta exhibit a significant des-Arg9-BK-induced increase in [3H]-thymidine incorporation if pretreated with a cyclo-oxygenase inhibitor (diclofenac) and concomitantly treated with the cytokines IL-1 or OSM. Angiotensin II, endothelin-1 or phenylephrine, alone or in the presence of IL-1 beta, exerted little effect on DNA synthesis in these cells. 4. The pharmacological characterization of the mitogenic response to kinins using a set of agonist and antagonist analogues is consistent with mediation by B1 receptors. Des-Arg9-BK-induced DNA synthesis is suppressed by prostaglandin E2 by a prostacyclin mimetic (iloprost), by the Ser/Thr protein kinase inhibitor, H-7, and by a tyrosine kinase inhibitor (i.e. an erbstatin analogue). 5. B1 receptor-mediated responses and their capacity to be regulated by cytokines, are retained in rabbit aortic smooth muscle cells. Such responses could be relevant to tissue repair mechanisms and hypertrophic medial responses to injury in arteries.

Mode of action of thrombin in the rabbit aorta

1. Thrombin is a vasoactive protease that elicits the contraction of the rabbit aorta by activating a G-protein coupled receptor through cleavage of its N-terminal extracellular domain. Synthetic peptides corresponding to the newly exposed N-terminus, following thrombin cleavage, have been shown to reproduce some of the activities of thrombin in the rabbit aorta. 2. Intracellular pathways involved in the contractile response of the rabbit aorta to thrombin and synthetic peptides were examined by use of a series of inhibitors. A similar method was applied to characterize the mitogenic effect of thrombin on cultured smooth muscle cells (SMCs) derived from the same tissue. 3. Results from this study indicate that the contractile response of the rabbit aorta to thrombin is dependent on the activation of protein kinase C (PKC) and independent of extracellular calcium. The contractile response to thrombin can be fully reproduced by peptide agonists related to the N-terminal receptor sequence. However, subtle differences seem to exist between the mechanism of the contractile effect of thrombin and of the synthetic peptides, as both PKC activation and extracellular calcium were found to participate in the contractile effect of the synthetic peptides. 4. In cultured SMCs, both thrombin and the synthetic peptides increased inositol phosphate turnover; however, only thrombin elicited a mitogenic effect, which occurs at thrombin concentrations well below those needed to increase inositol phosphate turnover significantly. Activation of a tyrosine kinase pathway is involved in the mitogenic effect of thrombin on aortic SMCs. 5. Altogether these results suggest the existence of subtle differences between the mode of action of thrombin and of synthetic peptides related to the N-terminal thrombin receptor sequence, in the rabbit aorta.

Recombinant human hemoglobin (rHb1.1) selectively inhibits vasorelaxation elicited by nitric oxide donors in rabbit isolated aortic rings

We investigated the effect of a genetically engineered recombinant human hemoglobin (rHb1.1), specially designed to be used as a blood substitute, on the ability of various well-known vasodilators to relax the rabbit isolated aortic rings precontracted with the alpha-adrenoceptor agonist phenylephrine (PE) or with KCl (for nifedipine only). The vasorelaxant effects of nitroglycerin (NTG) and of sodium nitroprusside (SNP), two nitrovasodilators whose effects are mediated by nitric oxide (NO), were inhibited in a concentration-dependent manner by rHb1.1 (1.5 and 15 microM). Those elicited by isoproterenol, papaverine, histamine, adenosine, atriopeptin II, hydralazine, nifedipine, and cromakalim were comparatively little affected or not affected by rHb1.1 (15 microM). The ability of captopril to inhibit the vasoconstrictor action of angiotensin I (AT1) in the rabbit aortic rings was not reduced by rHb1.1 (15 microM). Our results suggest that rHb1.1 shares with purified human Hb the ability to inhibit selectively the vasorelaxant effect of NO-releasing substances such as NTG and SNP. Because the targeted plasma concentration of rHb1.1, when used as a blood substitute, is greater (approximately 50 times) than the highest concentration of rHb1.1 used in this study, significant drug interactions can be predicted between NO donors and rHb1.1.

Quantification of des-Arg9-bradykinin using a chemiluminescence enzyme immunoassay: application to its kinetic profile during plasma activation

There is a renewed interest in the kininase I pathway of kinin metabolism, because des-Arg9-bradykinin (des-Arg9-BK) and des-Arg10-Lys-BK are selective and potent agonists of the B1 receptors, that are apparently upregulated by tissue injury. We have developed a polyclonal rabbit antiserum against des-Arg10-Lys-BK. In a radioimmunoassay for des-Arg10-Lys-BK, this antiserum exhibited high specificity. Notably, native kinins with the C-terminal Arg residue, bradykinin (BK) and Lys-BK, did not cross-react to a significant extent, whereas des-Arg9-BK and digoxigenin (DIG)-des-Arg9-BK exhibited a complete cross-reactivity. The antibodies were used to set up a sensitive chemiluminescence enzyme immunoassay (CLEIA) using the DIG-anti-DIG system as intermediate for the revelation of the immune complexes. The detection limit and the half-maximal saturation concentration for des-Arg9-BK were 27 and 1530 fmol/ml respectively. This assay, as well as another for BK quantification, have been applied in vitro to rabbit plasma activated by kaolin. The conversion of BK into des-Arg9-BK was generally efficient, and the persistence and concentration of both peptides were increased in the presence of enalaprilat an inhibitor of the angiotensin converting enzyme (ACEI). Rabbits treated with bacterial lipopolysaccharide exhibited an increase of plasma immunoreactive des-Arg9-BK that was potentiated in animals also treated with ACEI. This CLEIA for des-Arg9-BK is a new analytical tool applicable to analyze of the kininase I metabolites of kinins in vitro and in vivo. Measurements of des-Arg9-BK may be useful indicators of the kallikrein-kinin system activation.

Development of a binding assay for the B1 receptors for kinins

A novel binding assay to kinin B1 receptors was developed, based on the design of a high-affinity agonist ligand, [125I]Tyr-Gly-Lys-Aca-Lys-des-Arg9-BK. Binding to rabbit aortic smooth muscle cells is highly temperature-dependent (optimal at 37 degrees C); apparent binding equilibrium is reached within 30 min, and competition by kinin analogs reveals the expected correlation with the B1 receptor pharmacology. The dissociation constant (Kd) of the labeled ligand is approx. 0.2 nM and this value does not change significantly as a function of cytokine pretreatment. However, the receptor abundance (Bmax) is significantly increased (1.5-fold) by pretreating the cells with interleukin-1 (IL-1), while oncostatin M (OSM) produces a marginal increase of the Bmax. This assay may be useful in documenting the regulation of B1 receptors in pathology.

Further analysis of the upregulation of bradykinin B1 receptors in isolated rabbit aorta by using metabolic inhibitors

Kinins exert a contractile effect that develops as a function of the in vitro incubation time with isolated rabbit aorta. This response is mediated via receptors of the bradykinin B1 type and interleukin-1 amplifies this upregulation process. Tissues continuously treated with the protein synthesis inhibitor cycloheximide (71 microM) or with the protein trafficking inhibitor, brefeldin A (18 microM), failed to develop a contractile response to the bradykinin B1 receptor agonist, des-Arg9-bradykinin (1.7 microM) (72-100% inhibition of kinin response recorded at 3 or 6 h), whether or not they were exposed to interleukin-1 beta (290 pM). The protein glycosylation inhibitor tunicamycin exerted a selective and significant, but partial (50-76%), inhibition of des-Arg9-bradykinin-induced responses. The biochemical effect of the metabolic inhibitors on the tissue has been validated in assays involving incorporation of [3H]leucine and of [3H]mannose into protein or glycoprotein fractions, respectively. The modulatory effects of metabolic inhibitors on the responses to kinins of the isolated rabbit aorta support the idea that a de novo formation of membrane bradykinin B1 receptors is the molecular basis of both the spontaneous and the interleukin-1-stimulated upregulation phenomenon.

Recombinant human hemoglobin inhibits both constitutive and cytokine-induced nitric oxide-mediated relaxation of rabbit isolated aortic rings

A genetically engineered recombinant human hemoglobin (rHb1.1) was recently developed for use as a blood substitute (Nature 1992;356:258-60). Like other mammalian hemoglobin (Hb) molecules, it might bind and antagonize the actions of nitric oxide (NO). We used an isolated rabbit aortic ring preparation to examine the ability of rHb1.1 to inhibit acetylcholine (ACh)- and interleukin-1 beta (IL-1 beta)-induced reductions of vasoconstrictor responses to the alpha-adrenoceptor agonist phenylephrine (PE). rHb1.1 (0.04-4.4 microM) rapidly and reversibly inhibited, in a concentration-dependent manner, both ACh- and IL-1 beta-induced decreases in PE contractile responses. These inhibitory effects of rHb1.1 were non-competitive and were equipotent to those of purified, cell-free human Hb (p.hHb). These two forms of soluble Hb were at least 10 times more potent than Hb in erythrocytes (red blood cells: RBC-Hb). Both NG-nitro-L-arginine (10 microM) a NO synthase inhibitor, and LY-83583 (10 microM), a guanylyl cyclase inhibitor, mimicked the effects of rHb1.1. The inhibitory effects of rHb1.1 were not shared by either human serum albumin (HSA 44 microM), which combines with but does not deactivate NO, or cytochrome C (44 microM), a heme-containing protein that does not bind NO; neither were they reversed by L-arginine (L-ARG) (1 mM), the presumed NO precursor. These and other results suggest that the chemical antagonism of NO is likely to be the mechanism by which rHb1.1 and other Hbs inhibit ACh- and IL-1 beta-induced decreases in the response to PE in rabbit aortic rings.

Effects of peptide and nonpeptide antagonists of bradykinin B2 receptors on the venoconstrictor action of bradykinin

The isolated rabbit jugular and human umbilical veins respond to bradykinin (BK) by contractions that are mediated by the BK B2 type receptors. In this report, the pharmacology of recently developed BK B2 receptor antagonists is assessed by using these preparations. The nonpeptide kinin antagonist WIN 64338 (phosphonium, [[4-[[2-[[bis(cyclohexylamino)methylene]amino]- 3-(2-naphthalenyl)-1-oxopropyl]amino]phenyl]methyl]tributyl chloride monohydrochloride) demonstrates competitive and surmountable antagonism of BK in both the jugular and the umbilical veins (pA2 values of 6.14 and 5.99, respectively). WIN 64338 shows selectivity in its antagonist action as it does not inhibit the effect of various other contractile agents in either of the preparations. HOE-140 (D-Arg[hydroxyproline3,beta-thienylalanine5, D-Tic7, octahydroindol-2-yl-carbonyl residue8]-BK), a "second generation" peptide antagonist of BK, behaves as an insurmountable and irreversible antagonist in the rabbit jugular vein, but appears to be competitive in the umbilical vein (pA2 = 8.2). In the jugular vein, [L-Tic7]HOE-140 is an insurmountable antagonist about 2000-fold less potent than HOE-140; the L-Tic7 isomer demonstrates no significant antagonist activity on the umbilical vein at 30 microM. This study confirms that WIN 64338 behaves as a competitive and selective kinin antagonist of the BK B2 type receptors. The pharmacological profile of the L-Tic7 analog of HOE-140 may provide useful information in discerning the molecular interaction of noncompetitive BK antagonists with their receptors.

Aminopeptidase modulation of the pharmacological responses to synthetic thrombin receptor agonists

Thrombin is a contractile stimulus of isolated rabbit aortic rings and apparently produces its effects through the recently characterized cleavable receptor. A synthetic hexapeptide, NAT6-NH2 (new amino terminus), was found to be the minimal active structure for full activation of this receptor. The N-terminal Ser residue of NAT6-NH2 is crucial for biological activity. In this study we examined the metabolism of NAT6-NH2 in rabbit plasma, where it was rapidly degraded by aminopeptidase M. In the presence of the aminopeptidase inhibitor amastatin, no metabolism was observed. On this basis a metabolically resistant analogue, [Sar1]NAT6-NH2, was designed. We compared the biological activity of thrombin, NAT6-NH2 and [Sar1]NAT6-NH2 in the rabbit aorta and found that [Sar1]NAT6-NH2 was more potent than NAT6-NH2; however, in the presence of amastatin the concentration-effect curve for NAT6-NH2 was shifted to the left of that for [Sar1]NAT6-NH2. The effects of [Sar1]NAT6-NH2 and of thrombin were not modified by the presence of the aminopeptidase inhibitor. We also studied the effect of amastatin on the in vivo hypotensive response to NAT6-NH2 and found that it was also influenced by aminopeptidase M inhibition. Our results show that aminopeptidase protection is important when evaluating responses to synthetic agonists of the thrombin cleavable receptor and that an in vivo model, the anesthesized and heparinized rabbit, may be useful for the development of agonists and antagonists of this receptor.

Development of digoxigenin-labeled peptide: application to chemiluminoenzyme immunoassay of bradykinin in inflamed tissues

A new ultrasensitive chemiluminoenzyme immunoassay (CLEIA) using digoxigenin-labeled bradykinin (BK) as a tracer is proposed to quantify kinins in tissue samples. Rabbit polyclonal IgGs anti-BK directed against the C-terminal end were used for the immunoconcentration step along with dioxetane derivative for the revelation step. The sensitivity of the assay for BK was 0.1 fmol/ml with ED50 of 0.78 pmol/ml. This method was applied on extracts of normal and carrageenan-inflamed tissues. The edema produced by the injection of carrageenan in rat hindpaws was associated with a sevenfold increase of immunoreactive kinins in the inflamed paw extract (from 0.021 +/- 0.007 to 0.141 +/- 0.021 pmol/g tissue; p < 0.01), the immunoreactivity corresponded to BK, kallidin, and T-kinin after HPLC separation. When a mixture of inhibitors of kininase I (mergepta) and kininase II (captopril) was coinjected with carrageenan, the carrageenan-induced edema was unaffected but the kinin tissue content was significantly enhanced (0.207 +/- 0.003 pmol/g tissue; p < 0.01). However, the kinin tissue content and the edema response were unaltered by inhibitors given separately. Hence, this highly sensitive assay provides a biochemical evidence that kinins may act as proinflammatory mediators, and highlights a compensatory increase of kininase I and II activities in inflamed tissues.

Differential effects of selective neurokinin agonists on phasic and tonic activity in rat ileal longitudinal muscle

To test the hypothesis that different neurokinin receptors might be involved in the generation of either phasic or tonic muscular activity, selective ligands for the 6 neurokinin-1-receptor, [Sar9, Met(O2)]-SP, the neurokinin-2-receptor, [Nle10]-NKA4-10, and the neurokinin-3 receptor, [beta Asp4,MePhe7]-NKB4-10, were used to evaluate the excitatory effects of these agonists in the longitudinal rat ileal muscle in vitro. The excitatory effect was analyzed as total response (area under the curve) and as tonic or phasic (area under or within the peaks) activity. Substance P (SP, relative amount of phasic activity in comparison to total activity: 3 x 10(-8) M 87%, 3 x 10(-6) M 30%) and the neurokinin-2-receptor selective agonist [Nle10]-NKA4-10 (N-NKA: 3 x 10(-8) M 67%, 3 x 10(-6) M 59%) caused both tonic and phasic responses, with the percentage of phasic responses decreasing at higher concentrations. The neurokinin-1-receptor selective agonist [beta Ala4, Sar9, Met(O2)]-SP4-11 caused a predominantly tonic response with only a small phasic component (10(-8) M 27.1% 10(-6) M 13.8%). The selective neurokinin-3 receptor agonist [beta Asp4, MePhe7]-NKB4-10 caused a predominantly phasic motor response (SM-SP: 3 x 10(-8) M 98%, 3 x 10(-6) M 87%). Tetrodotoxin (TTX 10(-6) M), omega-conotoxin (CTX 10(-7) M) and atropine (10(-6) M) had no significant influence on the contractile responses to all four peptides, indicating a direct action on the smooth muscle cell.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Vascular mode of action of kinin B1 receptors and development of a cellular model for the investigation of these receptors

1. Kinins exert a contractile effect on rabbit aortic rings via the stimulation of B1 receptors. Des-Arg9-bradykinin (BK) is more potent than BK on this receptor type. The mode of action of des-Arg9-BK on rabbit aortic tissue has been studied by both the aortic ring contractility assay and a cellular model using cultured aortic smooth muscle cells (SMCs). 2. The des-Arg9-BK-induced contractions in rabbit aortic rings were unaffected by pretreatments with nifedipine, indomethacin, REV-5901 (a 5-lipoxygenase blocker) and LY-83583 (a guanylyl cyclase inhibitor); however, the protein kinase inhibitors H-7 and H-9 significantly reduced the maximal effect of des-Arg9-BK. 3. The contractile responses to des-Arg9-BK in calcium-free Krebs solution were slightly but not significantly attenuated in amplitude, as compared to paired control tissues bathed in Krebs solution, and sustained plateaus of contraction were observed in the absence of Ca2+. However, Ca2+ replenishment further increased the kinin-induced contraction measured in Ca(2+)-free bathing fluid. 4. Despite the lack of evidence of a mediating role for prostaglandin in the mechanical response to des-Arg9-BK, the kinin stimulated the release of prostacyclin from rabbit aorta rings measured as immunoreactive 6-keto-prostaglandin F1 alpha (6-keto-PGF1 alpha). 5. Smooth muscle cells (SMCs) derived from the rabbit aorta exhibit functional responses to des-Arg9-BK in acute release of 6-keto-PGF1alpha and of inositol phosphate turnover which were inhibited by pretreatment with the B1 receptor antagonist, Lys[Leu8]des-Arg9-BK, but not by the B2 receptor antagonist, Hoe-140. Preincubation of the cells with interleukin- 1 (IL-1) 20 h before stimulation with the kinin had no effect on basal inositol phosphate turnover, but potentiated the acute effect of des-Arg9-BK.6. These results suggest that second mesengers derived from the action of phospholipase C are produced by SMCs when B1 receptors are activated in rabbit aortic tissue. Intracellular calcium stores are primarily mobilized by des-Arg9-BK, although receptor-controlled calcium influx has not been ruled out, and may contribute to initiate the contractile responses. The maintenance of the contractile state involves protein kinase C activity and is consistent with a current model of SMC function. The cell model retains some of the cardinal properties of B1 receptor-mediated vascular responses: endothelium independent PGI2 release and up-regulation by the cytokine IL-1. PGI2 is not involved in the mechanical response, possible because the rabbit aorta is refractory to this prostaglandin.

Development and in vivo evaluation of metabolically resistant antagonists of B1 receptors for kinins

The B1 receptors for kinins are selectively stimulated by bradykinin (BK) and Lys-BK metabolites that do not have the C-terminal arginine, des-Arg9-BK and Lys-des-Arg9-BK, respectively. B1 receptors mediate a definite subset of the cardiovascular effects of kinins in normal and septic animals. We have studied the metabolism of the best selective B1 antagonist, Lys[Leu8]des-Arg9-BK, in order to support the rational design of new antagonists that have increased metabolic stability. The affinity of the new compounds was evaluated using the pA2 scale and was based on the antagonism of the contractile effect of kinins in the rabbit isolated aortic preparation. Acetylation of the alpha-amino group of the N-terminal Lys residue provided an excellent protection from the degradation by rabbit blood plasma. This and the inhibitory effect of amastatin on the metabolism of Lys[Leu8]des-Arg9-BK indicated that aminopeptidase M (AmM) is the major route of inactivation for this class of peptides in plasma. Various other modifications afforded a more or less complete resistance to purified angiotensin I converting enzyme (ACE). One analog, Ac-Lys[MeAla6, Leu8]des-Arg9-BK, was found resistant to the above-mentioned enzymes and to neutral endopeptidase-24.11 extracted from rabbit kidney. This antagonist, although 100 times less potent than the parent peptide Lys[Leu8]des-Arg9-BK on the rabbit aortic preparation, was equipotent in vivo against the hypotensive effect of a B1 agonist in lipopolysaccharide-treated rabbits, and unlike the original compound, its effect was persistent after the end of the infusion. Ac-Lys[MeAla6, Leu8]des-Arg9-BK does not antagonize B2 receptors either in vitro or in vivo.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Synthetic C5a receptor agonists. Pharmacology, metabolism and in vivo cardiovascular and hematologic effects

Recent investigations have produced novel compounds that act on the receptor for anaphylatoxin C5a. These products are C-terminal analogues of C5a, some of which are modified extensively. We have measured the receptor affinities of such analogues in a binding assay on human neutrophils (PMNs). We have also characterized their pharmacological profiles in vitro on the isolated rabbit portal vein and pulmonary artery, on superoxide release by PMNs as well as in vivo in the anesthetized rabbit (acute hypotensive and neutropenic effects). The metabolic resistance of these analogues was also evaluated in the presence of different peptidases. One of these compounds, MePhe-Lys-Pro-D-Cha-Phe-D-Arg, behaved as an antagonist on the release of superoxide by neutrophils while exerting agonist activity in all other assays. Its partial agonist status was documented in a receptor down-regulation experiment on PMNs where its activity was compared with those of recombinant C5a and of protamine which behaves as a competitive antagonist on these cells. Degradation studies indicated that the discrepancy between the affinity of certain analogues in vitro and their potency in vivo was probably linked to their metabolic stability.

Dissociation of the antimicrobial activity of bacitracin USP from its renovascular effects

Bacitracin is a nephrotoxic antibiotic that has recently been shown to induce contractile effects in aortas isolated from rabbits by stimulating receptors for 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT). The possible renovascular actions of this antibiotic were investigated. Bacitracin USP increased the vascular resistance in a concentration-dependent manner (9 to 175 micrograms/ml) in rat kidneys perfused with a constant flow of Krebs solution. This was significantly inhibited by 5-HT antagonists, but only partially at the higher bacitracin concentration. An antagonist of the chemotactic peptide fMet-Leu-Phe failed to influence the pressor effect of bacitracin in rat kidneys. Indomethacin modestly reduced the effect of all potent pressor agents in the rat organ. Bacitracin USP was separated in several fractions by using C18 reverse-phase chromatography. Two distinct fractions were vasoconstrictive when infused in rat kidneys; both fractions were 5-HT mimetics. These peaks were different from the major antibiotic peak, bacitracin A, which was identified by using analytical high-pressure liquid chromatography, mass spectrometry, and inhibition of Micrococcus luteus growth. The less polar vasoactive peak corresponded to at least two minor peptides of the bacitracin family. The most abundant of these vasoactive peptides had no direct contractile effect on an aorta isolated from a rabbit, but a preliminary metabolic study in rat kidneys suggests that it is apparently transformed into a potent 5-HT agonist that is active on the aorta preparation. Bacitracin A, the major constituent of bacitracin with antimicrobial activity, had no vasoconstrictor effect in the test systems that we used; however, we did rule out the possibility that the renovascular stimulants found in the bacitracin mixture do not derive spontaneously or by biotransformation from the antibacterial forms of bacitracin.

Synergism between the contractile effect of epidermal growth factor and that of des-Arg9-bradykinin or of alpha-thrombin in rabbit aortic rings

1. Rabbit aortic rings were used to test the possible contractile effects of growth factors and their interaction with other stimuli. A rapid potentiation of kinin-induced contraction by epidermal growth factor (EGF) has been previously observed in this preparation. 2. EGF (5-1500 ng ml-1) and the isoform BB of platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF-BB; 1-126 ng ml-1) exerted modest but sustained contractile effects in rabbit aortic rings. 3. EGF pretreatment (100 ng ml-1) potentiated the contractile responses to des-Arg9-bradykinin (des-Arg9-BK), an agonist of the B1 receptors for kinin found in this preparation, and to human alpha-thrombin but not to several other contractile stimuli. The interaction appeared also relatively selective for the growth factor, because PDGF-BB pretreatment potentiated neither des-Arg9-BK nor alpha-thrombin-induced contraction. 4. EGF, applied on a contraction plateau induced by des-Arg9-BK or alpha-thrombin, exerted a synergistic contractile effect, with a time course and a half-maximal concentration for EGF-induced contraction similar to the ones recorded in resting tissues (between 67 and 220 ng ml-1, depending on the series of experiments). 5. The direct or synergistic contractile effects of EGF were not modified by the removal of the endothelium or by treatment with indomethacin. However, the tyrosine kinase inhibitors, erbstatin or genistein, inhibited the synergistic effect of EGF with des-Arg9-BK. The small direct contractile effect of EGF was significantly reduced by genistein. The synergistic effect of EGF with alpha-thrombin was comparatively more resistant to the tested tyrosine kinase inhibitors.6. An inhibitor of the catalytic activity of alpha-thrombin, D-Phe-Pro-Arg-CH2Cl, prevented the contractile effect of x-thrombin in the aortic rings. In this system, a tetradecapeptide derived from a recently cloned alpha-thrombin receptor was a contractile stimulus at and above 10 microM. Consistent with the hypothesis that this peptide could behave as an alpha-thrombin receptor agonist, its contractile effect was potentiated by EGF pretreatment. Pharmacological evidence was provided to show that the receptors for alpha-thrombin were distinct from the B, receptors for kinins. Together, these findings suggest that a model of a cleavable receptor recently elaborated to account for alpha-thrombin effects on human platelets is valid in blood-free vascular smooth muscle preparations such as the rabbit isolated aorta.7. The synergism between EGF and kinin- or alpha-thrombin-induced contractions constitutes a novel mode of myotropic action for growth factors. The synergism is probably dependent on the tyrosine kinase activity of receptors for EGF. These combinations of stimuli could occur in various types of vascular disease and account for abnormal vascular reactivity often associated with atheroma lesions or vascular wound healing.

Involvement of NK1 receptors and importance of the N-terminal sequence of substance P in the stimulation of protein secretion in rat parotid glands

Recent in vitro studies have shown that the dose-response curve of substance P on [3H]protein secretion from rat parotid glands is biphasic. Such a response could result either from the activation of tachykinin receptors or from the amphiphilic character of substance P, since it has previously been shown that the N-terminal part of substance P may play an important role in the activation of phosphoinositides in rat parotid glands. To investigate these possibilities, we studied the effects of selective NK1, NK2, NK3 receptor agonists and C-terminal fragments of substance P and neurokinin A on protein secretion from rat parotid lobules. The poor activity of NK2 (neurokinin A-(4-10) and [beta-Ala8]neurokinin A-(4-10)) as well as of NK3 ([MePhe7]neurokinin B) selective agonists allowed us to rule out a possible involvement of NK2 and NK3 receptors in the parotid gland secretory process. Conversely, the selective NK1 receptor agonist, [Sar9,Met(O2)11]substance P, reproduced the biphasic dose-response curve for [3H]protein secretion typical of native substance P. However, a biphasic response was not observed with peptides deprived of the N-terminal moiety of substance P, such as substance P-(4-11) or [AcArg6,Sar9,Met(O2)11] substance P-(6-11). Our data therefore indicate that the [3H]protein secretion obtained with substance P results from the activation of NK1 receptors. Moreover, our data suggest that the N-terminal tripeptide of substance P is also active, and could stimulate different phospholipases either by acting through a second functional site on the NK1 receptor or by directly activating G-proteins.

Hypotensive effects of Lys-des-Arg9-bradykinin and metabolically protected agonists of B1 receptors for kinins

B1 receptors for kinins are selectively stimulated by bradykinin (BK) or Lys-BK (kallidin) fragments without the C terminal arginine residue. The present study was performed using an established in vivo model of B1 receptor-mediated cardiovascular action. Rabbits pretreated with bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) (25 micrograms/kg) and anesthetized 5 h later exhibit acute and transient hypotension in response to intra-arterial boluses of B1 receptor agonists. The naturally occurring B1 agonist Lys-des-Arg9-BK was more potent than des-Arg9-BK in the in vivo model, but the effect of either natural sequence was brief. Evidence derived from previous in vitro experiments suggests these peptides may be substrates for angiotensin I converting enzyme (ACE). In addition, Lys-des-Arg9-BK is hydrolyzed in vitro by aminopeptidase M. Therefore, we tested the hypotensive effects of Lys-des-Arg9-BK analogs selectively protected against ACE activity (Lys-[D-Phe8]des-Arg9-BK) or against both ACE and aminopeptidase M (Sar-[D-Phe8]des-Arg9-BK). Both analogs were found to elicit a biphasic response consisting of a brief hypotensive effect followed by a prolonged hypotensive state. Indomethacin prevented only the second, prolonged phase of the hypotension induced by the metabolically protected analogs. The duration of hypotensive episodes induced by Lys-des-Arg9-BK was increased in rabbits pretreated with either captopril, an ACE inhibitor, or the aminopeptidase M inhibitor amastatin, consistent with the prolonged effect of metabolically protected analogs. An infusion of the B1 agonist Sar-[D-Phe8]des-Arg9-BK (1 microgram/min) in lipopolysaccharide-pretreated rabbits led to a very important and persistent hypotensive state that was not prevented by indomethacin.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

New highly potent bradykinin B2 receptor antagonists

pA2 values of new B2 receptor antagonists ranging from 7.51 to 8.86 were measured on the rabbit jugular vein, while lower values were observed in the other preparations (for instance, the hamster urinary bladder). The most potent antagonists were those containing a hydroxyproline (Hyp) in position 3, a D-Arg at the N-terminal and a Leu instead of a Phe in position 8, with or without other chemical changes. D-Arg[Hyp3,D-Phe7,Leu8]-BK was found to be competitive, selective for B2 receptors and specific for kinins since it was without effect against substance P and angiotensin II in the rabbit jugular vein. The essential feature for obtaining B2 receptor antagonists appears to be the replacement or reorientation of Phe8 of bradykinin. The rabbit jugular vein provides a sensitive bioassay in which the potency and specificity of B2 receptor antagonists can be adequately evaluated.

Effect of synthetic tachykinin analogues on airway microvascular leakage in rats and guinea-pigs: evidence for the involvement of NK-1 receptors

1. The NK-1 selective agonists [beta-Ala4, Sar9]SP-(4-11) sulphone and [pGlu6, Pro9]SP-(6-11) dose-dependently increased vascular permeability in various segments of rat and guinea-pig tracheo-bronchial region, while the NK-2 ([Nle10]NKA-(4-10) and [beta-Ala8]NKA-(4-10)) or NK-3 ([MePhe7]NKB and [MePhe7]NKB-(4-10)) selective agonists were inactive. These findings provide evidence that the inflammatory response of the airway to intravenous tachykinins is exclusively mediated by the NK-1 receptor subtype. 2. Plasma protein extravasation induced by capsaicin was more intense in the caudal segments of the rat airways and paralleled the tissue concentration of substance P-like and calcitonin gene-related peptide-like immunoreactivity. The response to capsaicin was greatly reduced in rats pretreated with high dose of the toxin (655 mumol kg-1 s.c., 3 weeks before) and was smallest in the airway regions where the depletion of neuropeptides had been more severe. 3. The depletion of transmitters from capsaicin-sensitive nerves did not affect the inflammatory response of the airway to serotonin (500 nmol kg-1 i.v.), while increased responsiveness to a threshold dose (0.37 nmol kg-1 i.v.) of [beta-Ala4, Sar9]SP-(4-11) sulphone was observed. This finding gives preliminary evidence that, after depletion of transmitters from capsaicin-sensitive nerves, upregulation of NK-1 receptors may develop in rat trachea.

Metabolism of bradykinin agonists and antagonists by plasma aminopeptidase P

In addition to angiotensin I converting enzyme (ACE; EC 3.4.15.1) and carboxypeptidase N (CPN; EC 3.4.17.3), other peptidases contribute to bradykinin (BK) degradation in plasma. Rat plasma degraded BK by hydrolysis of the N-terminal Arg1-Pro2 bond, and the characteristics of hydrolysis are consistent with identification of aminopeptidase P (APP; EC 3.4.11.9) as the responsible enzyme. BK and BK[1-5] N-terminal hydrolysis was optimal at neutral pH, was inhibited by 2-mercaptoethanol, dithiothreitol, o-phenanthroline and EDTA, but was unaffected by the aminopeptidase inhibitors amastatin, puromycin and diprotin A, the endopeptidase-24.11 inhibitors phosphoramidon and ZINCOV, and the ACE and CPN inhibitors captopril and D,L-mercapto-methyl-3-guanidinoethylthiopropanoic acid (MERGETPA), respectively. Although kallidin (Lys-BK) was not metabolized directly by APP, conversion to BK by plasma aminopeptidase M (EC 3.4.11.2) resulted in subsequent degradation by APP. BK analogs containing N-terminal Arg1-Pro2 bonds, including [Tyr8-(OMe)] BK and [Phe8 psi(CH2NH)Arg9]BK (B2 agonists), des-Arg9-BK and [D-Phe8]des-Arg9-BK (B1 agonists), and [Leu8]des-Arg9-BK (B1 antagonist), were degraded by APP with Km and Vmax values comparable to those found for BK (Km = 19.7 +/- 2.6 microM; Vmax = 12.1 +/- 1.2 nmol/min/mL). In contrast, B2 antagonists containing D-Arg0 N-termini, including D-Arg[Hyp3,Thi5.8,D-Phe7]BK and D-Arg[Hyp3,D-Phe7,Phe8 psi(CH2NH)Arg9]BK, were resistant to APP-mediated hydrolysis. These data support a role for plasma aminopeptidase P in the degradation of circulating kinins, and a variety of B2 and B1 kinin agonists and antagonists. However, APP does not participate in the degradation of D-Arg0-containing antagonists.

Characterization of bradykinin receptors in peripheral organs

Bradykinin (BK) and related kinins are potent stimulants of the rabbit jugular vein, the hamster urinary bladder, and the guinea pig trachea. The characterization of kinin receptors in these tissues was made with agonists and antagonists. Results obtained with agonists indicate that bradykinin and kallidin are much more active than des-Arg9-BK and suggest the presence of B2 receptors in the three organs. Some new agonists were also tested and the BK analogue, [Hyp3,Tyr(Me)8]BK, was found to be a potent and selective stimulant of the three preparations, with pD2 values of 8.56, 8.00, and 8.39, respectively, but inactive on the rabbit aorta (a B1-receptor system). Contractile effects of kinins in the rabbit jugular vein and hamster urinary bladder were reduced or eliminated by B2-receptor antagonists but at different concentration levels; e.g., acetyl-D-Arg[Hyp3,D-Phe7]BK showed pA2 values of 7.78 on the rabbit jugular vein but only 5.72 on hamster urinary bladder. This compound contracted the guinea-pig trachea and was found to be inactive as an antagonist on this preparation. Contractions of the hamster urinary bladder and the guinea-pig trachea in response to bradykinin were markedly reduced or eliminated by indomethacin and by BW 755C, while those of the rabbit jugular vein were not modified. The present findings indicate that the myotropic effect of kinins on the rabbit jugular vein depends on the activation of B2 receptors and suggest that B2 receptors are largely responsible also for the response of the hamster urinary bladder. B2 receptors and (or) a nonreceptor mechanism appear to be involved in the stimulant effects of the kinin agonists and some antagonists in the guinea-pig trachea.

Kallidin applied to the human nasal mucosa produces algesic response not blocked by capsaicin desensitization

Various kinins (dissolved in 50 microliters) were applied to the nasal mucosa of healthy human volunteers to test the algesic and proinflammatory effects of these peptides in an intact human tissue. [des-Arg9]-bradykinin (0.5 mumol) was found to be inactive, while bradykinin (0.05-0.5 mumol) and especially kallidin (0.005-0.5 mumol) induced: (a) a mild painful sensation described as burning and pricking (latency 30 s, duration 3-5 min), (b) perception of pulsatility and obstruction in the nasal cavity (onset 1 min, duration 6-8 min). Substance P (0.5 mumol) and neurokinin A (0.5 mumol) produced slight obstruction and weak pulsatile sensation but not pain. Capsaicin (0.05 nmol) produced pain and secretion of fluid, but not pulsatile sensation. The effects of kallidin were not affected by repeated (to induce desensitization) applications of capsaicin (0.5 mumol). Likewise, ipratropium bromide (80 mg in 100 microliters) did not affect responses to kallidin. In an intact human tissue, kallidin produces various effects, including an algesic response, that are apparently independent from activation of B1 receptors and from desensitization of capsaicin-sensitive primary afferents.

Mechanism of the pressor response to intraperitoneal injection of bradykinin in guinea pigs

Single intraperitoneal (IP) injection of bradykinin (BK) in anesthetized guinea pigs caused concentration-related pressor effects and slight, not significant tachycardia. Intravenous injections of BK in the same animal model evoked hypotension and a marked tachycardia. IP injection of des-Arg9-BK, a selective B1 receptor agonist, caused no changes of blood pressure or heart rate. The pressor response to IP BK was reduced by concomitant IP injection of lidocaine or of D-Arg[Hyp3,D-Phe7,Leu8]BK, a B2 receptor antagonist. It was also inhibited by acute animal pretreatment with sympatholytic drugs, by chronic animal exposure to capsaicin, or acute spinalization, but it was not affected by atropine, propranolol, indomethacin, [Leu8]des-Arg9-BK, a B1 receptor antagonist, or by acute cervical vagotomy. These results suggest that pressor responses to IP BK in anesthetized guinea pigs are reflex in nature, involving abdominal, capsaicin-sensitive, nonvagal visceral afferents, efferent components of the sympathetic nervous system and possibly supraspinal centers, and likely to be mediated by B2 receptors of kinins presumably located on abdominal visceral afferents.

N-acetyl-GRP(20-26)-O-CH3 reverses intracisternal bombesin-induced inhibition of gastric acid secretion in rats

Intracisternal injection of 19 pmoles of bombesin in light-ether-anesthetized rats, five minutes after intracisternal vehicle, produced a 75% and 63% inhibition in gastric acid output and concentration, respectively, in 2-hour pylorus-ligated rats. Pretreatment of rats with the characterized peripheral bombesin antagonist N-acetyl-GRP(20-26)-O-CH3 (1 nmole) reversed the inhibitory effect of bombesin on gastric acid output and concentration. In contrast, the related bombesin antagonist N-acetyl-GRP-O-CH2-CH3 (1 nmole) was ineffective in this system. In urethane-anesthetized, acute gastric fistula rats infused with pentagastrin, intracisternal N-acetyl-GRP(20-26)-O-CH3 protected against the inhibition in gastric acid output produced by intracisternal bombesin (19 pmoles). Thus the recently characterized peripheral bombesin antagonist N-acetyl-GRP(20-26)-O-CH3 also appears to be effective in antagonizing central bombesin-induced inhibition in gastric acid secretion in two models. This represents a first report of a synthetic bombesin antagonist effective in reversing central bombesin-induced effects on gastric function.

Metabolism of bradykinin analogs by angiotensin I converting enzyme and carboxypeptidase N

Bradykinin (BK) analogs such as Lys-Lys-BK, des-Arg9-BK and [Leu8]des-Arg9-BK were poor substrates for angiotensin I converting enzyme (ACE), and analogs containing D-Phe7 residues, or a pseudopeptide C-terminal bond, were completely resistant. However, many of these analogs were metabolized by carboxypeptidase N (CPN) including Lys-Lys-BK, [Tyr8(OMe)]BK and D-Phe7-containing analogs, with Km and Vmax values comparable to those for BK. The only analogs completely resistant to both ACE and CPN were the B2 agonist [Phe8 psi(CH2NH)Arg9]BK, the B2 agonist D-Arg[Hyp3,D-Phe7,Phe8 psi(CH2NH)Arg9]BK, and the B1 agonist [D-Phe8]des-Arg9-BK. These data indicate an important role for plasma CPN and vascular CPN-like activity in the metabolism of the widely used ACE-resistant/D-Phe7-containing antagonists of B2 kinin receptors.

Characterization of bombesin receptors in peripheral contractile organs

1 Guinea-pig and rat urinary bladders, rat stomach and the guinea-pig gall bladder, four isolated organs that show high sensitivity to bombesin, were used to characterize bombesin receptors in peripheral organs. 2 The order of potency of agonists was determined with several naturally occurring peptides of the bombesin series, namely bombesin (BBS), litorin (Lit), neuromedin B (NMB), the gastrin-releasing peptide (GRP 18-27), neuromedin C (NMC) and with some bombesin fragments. It was found that bombesin, neuromedin C, litorin and two bombesin fragments, BBS (6-14) and AcBBS (6-14) had similar activities in the four preparations, while neuromedin B and [Phe6]-neuromedin C were more active on the rat urinary bladder than on the other tissues. 3 The order of potency of agonists determined in the rat urinary bladder was as follows: BBS = NMB greater than Lit greater than NMC greater than [Phe6]NMC = GRP and it was found to be different from that observed in the other preparations: BBS greater than GRP = Lit greater than or equal to NMC much greater than NMB greater than [Phe6]NMC, suggesting the existence of two different bombesin receptors, BBS1 and BBS2. 4 This interpretation was convalidated by the finding that bombesin antagonists, namely Ac.GRP(20-26)OCH3 and Ac.GRP(20-26)OC2H5 reduced or blocked the effects of bombesin-related peptides on BBS2 receptor systems while being completely inactive on the rat urinary bladder (BBS1 system).

Structure-activity studies of bradykinin and related peptides. B2-receptor antagonists

Thirty-seven compounds were tested as antagonists of kinin B2- and B1-receptors to identify the chemical changes required to obtain antagonism, improve antagonist affinity, and eliminate residual agonistic activities. Apparent affinity of antagonists was evaluated in terms of pA2 on the rabbit jugular vein, the dog carotid and renal arteries, the hamster urinary bladder, the guinea pig ileum, the rat vas deferens, the guinea pig trachea, and the rabbit aorta, using bradykinin and desArg9-bradykinin as B2- and B1-receptor activators. Replacement of Pro7 of bradykinin with D-Phe leads to antagonism; substitution of Pro3 by Hyp and extension of the peptide chain at the N-terminal with a D-Arg residue improves the affinity of antagonists; acetylation of N-terminal amine function reduces residual agonistic activity; these changes, combined with the replacement of Phe8 by Leu as in Ac-D-Arg[Hyp3,D-Phe7,Leu8]-bradykinin, led to potent full B2-receptor antagonists. Affinity of antagonists differs markedly between highly sensitive (rabbit jugular vein, dog carotid and renal artery), moderately sensitive (hamster urinary bladder, guinea pig ileum, and rat vas deferens), and insensitive preparations (the guinea pig trachea) in which antagonists act as potent stimulants. High concentrations of antagonists block bradykinin completely in the rabbit jugular vein but not in the guinea pig ileum, suggesting that kinins stimulate the moderately sensitive tissues by two mechanisms, of which only one is blocked by antagonists. It thus appears that kinins act on various B2-receptor subtypes or by different action mechanisms.

Antagonists for the neurokinin NK-3 receptor evaluated in selective receptor systems

Four isolated vessels that are monoreceptor systems for neurokinins, the dog carotid artery and rabbit jugular vein (NK-1), the rabbit pulmonary artery (NK-2) and the rat portal vein (NK-3), were used to compare the activities of selective neurokinin agonists and evaluate the affinities of new NK-3 antagonists. Chemical modifications in the partial sequences NKA (4-10) and NKB (4-10), particularly the replacement of Val7 with an aromatic residue (Tyr, MePhe or Trp) and the extension of the peptide backbone in position 8, obtained with beta-Ala, led to compounds that maintain weak agonistic activities on the NK-1 and NK-2, and some of them also on NK-3 receptors but exert potent antagonism against NKB on the NK-3 receptor of the rat portal vein. Antagonistic affinity is the highest when Trp is used in position 7 of [beta-Ala8]-NKA (4-10) and MePhe in position 7 of [beta-Ala8]-NKB (4-10). Antagonism is selective for NKB or [MePhe7]-NKB, and appears to be specific, since the most active compound [Trp7, beta-Ala8]-NKA (4-10) is inactive against bradykinin on the rabbit jugular vein (B2 receptor), against SP on the rabbit jugular vein (NK-1 receptor), against desArg9-bradykinin on the rabbit aorta (B1 receptor), and against angiotensin II and histamine (AT and H receptors, respectively) in the rabbit aorta. The new NK-3 receptor antagonists described in the present study provide useful tools for neurokinin receptor characterization and for determining the roles of neurokinins in physiopathology.

125I-BH[Sar9, Met(O2)11]-SP, a new selective ligand for the NK-1 receptor in the central nervous system

The selective agonist [Sar9,Met(O2)11]-SP was radioiodinated with 125I-Bolton Hunter in order to study its binding to rat brain membranes and for further comparison with 125I-BH.SP. Specific binding of 125I-BH[Sar9,Met(O2)11]-SP was temperature-dependent, saturable and reversible. In brain homogenates, 125I-BH[Sar9,Met(O2)11]-SP interacted with a single class of high affinity (kd = 1.0 nM) non-interacting binding sites (Bmax of 15 fmol/mg protein). In the central nervous system, 125I-BH-[Sar9,Met(O2)11]-SP apparently labeled the same number of binding sites as 125I-BH.SP (19 fmol/mg proteins). Competition studies with tachykinins, neurokinins and selective neurokinin agonists indicated that the pharmacological profile of the site labeled by 125I-BH[Sar9,Met(O2)11]-SP is identical with that of NK-1 receptors. In dose-displacement studies made with radiolabeled SP and [Sar9,Met(O2)11)]-SP, an excellent correlation (r = 0.96) was found for the Ki values of the different compounds tested; these findings suggest that both radioligands recognize the same receptor in rat brain. The affinity (Ki) of various neurokinin-related peptides for the brain site were compared with their biological activities on various isolated organs (dog carotid artery, guinea-pig ileum, rat portal vein). NK-1 binding sites characterized in rat brain homogenates appear to be identical with those present on the dog carotid artery, a preparation known to possess exclusively the NK-1 receptor type.

Binding characteristics of [125I]Bolton-Hunter [Sar9,Met(O2)11]substance P, a new selective radioligand for the NK1 receptor

The selective tachykinin agonist [Sar9,Met(O2)11]substance P (Sar-SP) was radioiodinated with [125I]Bolton-Hunter reagent and the product [125I]Bolton-Hunter-[Sar9,Met(O)2)11]SP (BHSar-SP) purified using reverse phase HPLC. Autoradiographic studies showed dense specific binding of BHSar-SP over the rat submandibular gland and over several regions in rat brain, with very low nonspecific binding, identical with the pattern of binding sites seen in a parallel study with [125I]Bolton-Hunter SP (BHSP). In homogenate binding experiments, BHSar-SP bound with high affinity to a single site in membranes from rat brain (KD 261 pM) and rat submandibular gland (KD 105 pM). Comparative values for BHSP were 495 and 456 pM, i.e. of two and four fold lower affinity than BHSar-SP. Association of BHSar-SP to membranes from brain (k+1 3.7 x 10(9) M-1 min-1) was faster than to membranes from salivary gland (k+1 5.6 x 10(8) M-1 min-1). In competition studies, BHSar-SP was displaced from salivary gland membranes by substance P (SP) approximately physalaemin greater than or equal to Sar-SP approximately SP-(3-11) greater than SP-(5-11) much greater than neurokinin A (NKA) approximately eledoisin = kassinin = SP-methyl ester greater than or equal to neurokinin B (NKB) much greater than [Nle10]NKA-(4-10) greater than [MePhe7]NKB-(4-10). In brain membranes, the rank potency order was SP greater than Sar-SP greater than or equal to physalaemin greater than SP-(3-11) greater than SP-(5-11) greater than NKA greater than or equal to eledoisin much greater than NKB greater than kassinin greater than SP-methyl ester: however [MePhe7]NKB-(4-10) and [Nle10]NKA-(4-10) were ineffective competitors at concentrations up to 1 microM. Both binding patterns are consistent with BHSar-SP binding to an NK1 site. With the exception of SP, Sar-SP, SP-(3-11) and physalaemin, all competitors were 5 to 54 times less potent at BHSar-SP binding sites in brain than in salivary gland. These data reveal some differences in characteristics of NK1 binding sites in brain and submandibular gland. Although of higher affinity, BHSar-SP does not appear greatly more selective than BHSP in its ability to define NK1 binding sites.