Expression of the extraneuronal monoamine transporter (uptake2) in human glioma cells

Organic cation transporter 3 (OCT3) is localized to intracellular and surface membranes in select glial and neuronal cells within the basolateral amygdaloid complex of both rats and mice

Organic cation transporter 3 (OCT3) is a high-capacity, low-affinity transporter that mediates corticosterone-sensitive uptake of monoamines including norepinephrine, epinephrine, dopamine, histamine and serotonin. OCT3 is expressed widely throughout the amygdaloid complex and other brain regions where monoamines are key regulators of emotional behaviors affected by stress. However, assessing the contribution of OCT3 to the regulation of monoaminergic neurotransmission and monoamine-dependent regulation of behavior requires fundamental information about the subcellular distribution of OCT3 expression. We used immunofluorescence and immuno-electron microscopy to examine the cellular and subcellular distribution of the transporter in the basolateral amygdaloid complex of the rat and mouse brain. OCT3-immunoreactivity was observed in both glial and neuronal perikarya in both rat and mouse amygdala. Electron microscopic immunolabeling revealed plasma membrane-associated OCT3 immunoreactivity on axonal, dendritic, and astrocytic processes adjacent to a variety of synapses, as well as on neuronal somata. In addition to plasma membrane sites, OCT3 immunolabeling was also observed associated with neuronal and glial endomembranes, including Golgi, mitochondrial and nuclear membranes. Particularly prominent labeling of the outer nuclear membrane was observed in neuronal, astrocytic, microglial and endothelial perikarya. The localization of OCT3 to neuronal and glial plasma membranes adjacent to synaptic sites is consistent with an important role for this transporter in regulating the amplitude, duration, and physical spread of released monoamines, while its localization to mitochondrial and outer nuclear membranes suggests previously undescribed roles for the transporter in the intracellular disposition of monoamines.

Glioblastoma development in mouse brain: general reduction of OCTs and mislocalization of OCT3 transporter and subsequent uptake of ASP+ substrate to the nuclei

Organic cation transporters (OCTs) were first found and then isolated from cultured glioma cells. When glioma cells are implanted into brain the fate of OCTs varies with time after implantation and transporter type. Here we report that OCT1, OCT2 and OCT3 immunofluorescence is significantly reduced over time in implanted GL261 glioma cells, during tumor development in the brain. By day 21 after glioma implantation, OCT1, OCT2 and OCT3 immunofluorescence was reduced more than 10-fold in the cytoplasm of glioma cells, while OCT3 immunofluorescence became concentrated in the nucleus. The well-known fluorescent substrate for OCT transporters, 4-(4-(dimethylamino)-styryl)-N-methylpyridinium iodide (ASP⁺), previously shown to accumulate in glioma-cell cytoplasm in in vivo slices, began to accumulate in the nucleus of these cells, but not in cytoplasm, after 21 days post-implantation. Considering this mislocalization phenomenon, and other literature on similar nuclear mislocalization of different transporters, receptors and channels in glioma cells, we suggest that it is one of the "omens" preceding the motility and aggressivity changes in glioma behavior.

Functional characterization of rat plasma membrane monoamine transporter in the blood-brain and blood-cerebrospinal fluid barriers

This study investigated the expression and functional roles of rat plasma membrane monoamine transporter (rPMAT) in the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and the blood-cerebrospinal fluid barrier by using in vitro brain barrier model cells (TR-BBB13 and TR-CSFB3 cells) and multiple in vivo experimental techniques. Quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction analysis showed relatively high expression of rPMAT mRNA in TR-BBB13 and TR-CSFB3 cells. 1-Methyl-4-phenylpyridinium (MPP(+) ) was transported into rPMAT-expressing cells in a sodium-independent manner. [(3) H]MPP(+) was taken up concentration dependently by TR-BBB13 and TR-CSFB3 cells with K(m) values similar to that of rPMAT-expressing cells. [(3) H]MPP(+) transports into these cells were markedly inhibited by serotonin, dopamine, and cationic drugs. rPMAT small interfering RNA (siRNA) significantly suppressed the [(3) H]MPP(+) uptake by TR-BBB13 cells. Intracerebrally injected [(3) H]MPP(+) was eliminated from the brain parenchymal region, whereas brain [(3) H]MPP(+) uptake did not increase with time during in situ brain perfusion, suggesting that the brain-to-blood transport across the BBB predominates over the blood-to-brain transport. Brain microdialysis studies revealed that the elimination across the BBB was significantly decreased by coperfusion of unlabelled MPP(+) , serotonin, or dopamine. [(3) H]MPP(+) was also eliminated from the CSF. These findings suggest that PMAT in brain barriers functions as the brain-to-blood transporter to regulate brain concentrations of organic cations including monoamines and cationic neurotoxins.

Distribution of organic cation transporter 3, a corticosterone-sensitive monoamine transporter, in the rat brain

Organic cation transporter 3 (OCT3) is a high-capacity, low-affinity transporter that mediates bidirectional, sodium-independent transport of dopamine, norepinephrine, epinephrine, serotonin, and histamine. OCT3-mediated transport is directly inhibited by corticosterone, suggesting a potential role for the transporter in mediating some of the effects of stress and glucocorticoids on monoaminergic neurotransmission. To elucidate the importance of OCT3 in clearance of extracellular monoamines in the brain, we used immunohistochemical techniques to describe the distribution of OCT3-like-immunoreactive (OCT3-ir) cells throughout the rostrocaudal extent of adult male rat brains. OCT3-ir cell bodies were widely distributed throughout the brain, with the highest densities observed in the superior and inferior colliculi, islands of Calleja, subiculum, lateral septum, lateral and dorsomedial hypothalamic nuclei, and granule cell layers of the main and accessory olfactory bulbs, the cerebellum, and the retrosplenial granular cortex. OCT3-ir cells and/or fibers were also observed in circumventricular organs, and OCT3-ir ependymal cells were observed in the linings of all cerebral ventricles. The widespread distribution of OCT3-ir cell bodies, including regions receiving dense monoaminergic projections, suggests an important role for this transporter in regulating extracellular concentrations of monoamines in the rat brain and is consistent with the hypothesis that corticosterone-induced inhibition of OCT3-mediated transport may contribute to effects of acute stress or corticosterone on monoaminergic neurotransmission.

Unfaithful neurotransmitter transporters: focus on serotonin uptake and implications for antidepressant efficacy

Biogenic amine transporters for serotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine (SERT, NET and DAT respectively), are the key players terminating transmission of these amines in the central nervous system by their high-affinity uptake. They are also major targets for many antidepressant drugs. Interestingly however, drugs targeted to a specific transporter do not appear to be as clinically efficacious as those that block two or all three of these transporters. A growing body of literature, reviewed here, supports the idea that promiscuity among these transporters (the uptake of multiple amines in addition to their "native" transmitter) may account for improved therapeutic effects of dual and triple uptake blockers. However, even these drugs do not provide effective treatment outcomes for all individuals. An emerging literature suggests that "non-traditional" transporters such as organic cation transporters (OCT) and the plasma membrane monoamine transporter (PMAT) may contribute to the less than hoped for efficacy of currently prescribed uptake inhibitors. OCT and PMAT are capable of clearing biogenic amines from extracellular fluid and may serve to buffer the effects of frontline antidepressants, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. In addition, polymorphisms that occur in the genes encoding the transporters can lead to variation in transporter expression and function (e.g. the serotonin transporter linked polymorphic region; 5-HTTLPR) and can have profound effects on treatment outcome. This may be accounted for, in part, by compensatory adaptations in other transporters. This review synthesizes the existing literature, focusing on serotonin to illustrate and revive a model for the rationale design of improved antidepressants.

Altered aminergic neurotransmission in the brain of organic cation transporter 3-deficient mice

Organic cation transporters (OCTs) are carrier-type polyspecific permeases known to participate in low-affinity extraneuronal catecholamine uptake in peripheral tissues. OCT3 is the OCT subtype most represented in the brain, yet its implication in central aminergic neurotransmission in vivo had not been directly demonstrated. In a detailed immunohistochemistry study, we show that OCT3 is expressed in aminergic pathways in the mouse brain, particularly in dopaminergic neurons of the substantia nigra compacta, non-aminergic neurons of the ventral tegmental area, substantia nigra reticulata (SNr), locus coeruleus, hippocampus and cortex. Although OCT3 was found mainly in neurons, it was also occasionally detected in astrocytes in the SNr, hippocampus and several hypothalamic nuclei. In agreement with this distribution, OCT3/Slc22a3-deficient mice show evidence of altered monoamine neurotransmission in the brain, with decreased intracellular content and increased turnover of aminergic transmitters. The behavioral characterization of these mutants reveal subtle behavioral alterations such as increased sensitivity to psychostimulants and increased levels of anxiety and stress. Altogether our data support a role of OCT3 in the homeostatic regulation of aminergic neurotransmission in the brain.

The transport of organic cations in the small intestine: current knowledge and emerging concepts

A wide variety of drugs and endogenous bioactive amines are organic cations (OCs). Approximately 40% of all conventional drugs on the market are OCs. Thus, the transport of xenobiotics or endogenous OCs in the body has been a subject of considerable interest, since the discovery and cloning of a family of OC transporters, referred to as organic cation transporter (OCTs), and a new subfamily of OCTs, OCTNs, leading to the functional characterization of these transporters in various systems including oocytes and some cell lines. Organic cation transporters are critical in drug absorption, targeting, and disposition of a drug. In this review, the recent advances in the characterization of organic cation transporters and their distribution in the small intestine are discussed. The results of the in vitro transport studies of various OCs in the small intestine using techniques such as isolated brush-border membrane vesicles, Ussing chamber systems and Caco-2 cells are discussed, and in vivo knock-out animal studies are summarized. Such information is essential for predicting pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics and in the design and development of new cationic drugs. An understanding of the mechanisms that control the intestinal transport of OCs will clearly aid achieving desirable clinical outcomes.

Multi-target strategies for the improved treatment of depressive states: Conceptual foundations and neuronal substrates, drug discovery and therapeutic application

Major depression is a debilitating and recurrent disorder with a substantial lifetime risk and a high social cost. Depressed patients generally display co-morbid symptoms, and depression frequently accompanies other serious disorders. Currently available drugs display limited efficacy and a pronounced delay to onset of action, and all provoke distressing side effects. Cloning of the human genome has fuelled expectations that symptomatic treatment may soon become more rapid and effective, and that depressive states may ultimately be "prevented" or "cured". In pursuing these objectives, in particular for genome-derived, non-monoaminergic targets, "specificity" of drug actions is often emphasized. That is, priority is afforded to agents that interact exclusively with a single site hypothesized as critically involved in the pathogenesis and/or control of depression. Certain highly selective drugs may prove effective, and they remain indispensable in the experimental (and clinical) evaluation of the significance of novel mechanisms. However, by analogy to other multifactorial disorders, "multi-target" agents may be better adapted to the improved treatment of depressive states. Support for this contention is garnered from a broad palette of observations, ranging from mechanisms of action of adjunctive drug combinations and electroconvulsive therapy to "network theory" analysis of the etiology and management of depressive states. The review also outlines opportunities to be exploited, and challenges to be addressed, in the discovery and characterization of drugs recognizing multiple targets. Finally, a diversity of multi-target strategies is proposed for the more efficacious and rapid control of core and co-morbid symptoms of depression, together with improved tolerance relative to currently available agents.

Organic cation transporter 3 (Slc22a3) is implicated in salt-intake regulation

Organic cation transporters (OCTs) are carrier-type permeases known to participate in general detoxification functions in peripheral tissues. Previous in vitro studies have suggested that OCTs ensure Uptake2, a low-affinity, corticosteroid-sensitive catecholamine removal system, which was characterized initially in sympathetically innervated tissues. Although the presence of both Uptake(2)-like transport and most OCT subtypes has also been demonstrated in the brain, the physiological role of this family of transporters in CNS remained totally unknown. In the present work, we show that the OCT3 transporter is found throughout the brain and highly expressed in regions regulating fluid exchange, including circumventricular organs such as area postrema and subfornical organ (SFO), and in other structures implicated in the sensing of changes in blood osmolarity and regulation of salt and water ingestion. OCT3/Slc22a3-deficient mice show an increase in the level of ingestion of hypertonic saline under thirst and salt appetite conditions, as well as alterations of the neural response in the SFO after sodium deprivation, as monitored by Fos immunoreactivity. This work demonstrates that the presence of OCT3 is critical for the balanced neural and behavioral responses to environmentally induced variations in osmolarity and provides for the first time physiological evidence of the importance of OCTs for CNS function.

Organic cation transporters

Over the last 15 years, a number of transporters that translocate organic cations were characterized functionally and also identified on the molecular level. Organic cations include endogenous compounds such as monoamine neurotransmitters, choline, and coenzymes, but also numerous drugs and xenobiotics. Some of the cloned organic cation transporters accept one main substrate or structurally similar compounds (oligospecific transporters), while others translocate a variety of structurally diverse organic cations (polyspecific transporters). This review provides a survey of cloned organic cation transporters and tentative models that illustrate how different types of organic cation transporters, expressed at specific subcellular sites in hepatocytes and renal proximal tubular cells, are assembled into an integrated functional framework. We briefly describe oligospecific Na(+)- and Cl(-)-dependent monoamine neurotransmitter transporters ( SLC6-family), high-affinity choline transporters ( SLC5-family), and high-affinity thiamine transporters ( SLC19-family), as well as polyspecific transporters that translocate some organic cations next to their preferred, noncationic substrates. The polyspecific cation transporters of the SLC22 family including the subtypes OCT1-3 and OCTN1-2 are presented in detail, covering the current knowledge about distribution, substrate specificity, and recent data on their electrical properties and regulation. Moreover, we discuss artificial and spontaneous mutations of transporters of the SLC22 family that provide novel insight as to the function of specific protein domains. Finally, we discuss the clinical potential of the increasing knowledge about polymorphisms and mutations in polyspecific organic cation transporters.

The localisation of the extraneuronal monoamine transporter (EMT) in rat brain

The extraneuronal monoamine transporter plays an important role in the inactivation of monoamine transmitters. A basal extraneuronal tissue expression of this transporter has been reported, but it is also expressed in CNS glia. As little is known about the expression pattern and the function of the extraneuronal monoamine transporter in the brain, we performed a detailed investigation. Firstly, a northern blot analysis of different rat organs revealed that the transporter is strongly expressed in placenta, lung and heart and less prominently in the whole brain, brain stem, intestine, testis, epididymis, stomach, kidney and skeletal muscle. It was not expressed in cerebellum, liver and embryo. Using an in situ hybridization to the rat brain, we detected a marked and highly confined expression of the extraneuronal monoamine transporter in the area postrema, but in no other brain areas. These findings were confirmed by polyclonal antibodies against rat extraneuronal monoamine transporter showing an intensive signal in the area postrema, although a few cells in the cerebellum and the brain stem also showed a signal. Additionally, a partly overlapping expression pattern of the monoamine oxidase-B was detected. Summarizing, we firstly describe a marked and highly confined expression of the extraneuronal monoamine transporter in the rat area postrema by in situ hybridisation which may play a role in physiological functions of this circumventricular organ such as emesis, food intake and the regulation of cardiovascular functions.

Modulation of uptake of organic cationic drugs in cultured human colon adenocarcinoma Caco-2 cells by an ecto-alkaline phosphatase activity

Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) refers to a group of nonspecific phosphomonoesterases located primarily in cell plasma membrane. It has been described in different cell lines that ecto-ALP is directly or indirectly involved in the modulation of organic cation transport. We aimed to investigate, in Caco-2 cells, a putative modulation of 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium (MPP(+)) apical uptake by an ecto-ALP activity. Ecto-ALP activity and (3)H-MPP(+) uptake were evaluated in intact Caco-2 cells (human colon adenocarcinoma cell line), in the absence and presence of a series of drugs. The activity of membrane-bound ecto-ALP expressed on the apical surface of Caco-2 cells was studied at physiological pH using p-nitrophenylphosphate as substrate. The results showed that Caco-2 cells express ALP activity, characterized by an ecto-oriented active site functional at physiological pH. Genistein (250 micro M), 3-isobutyl-1-methylxanthine (1 mM), verapamil (100 micro M), and ascorbic acid (1 mM) significantly increased ecto-ALP activity and decreased (3)H-MPP(+) apical transport in this cell line. Orthovanadate (100 micro M) showed no effect on (3)H-MPP(+) transport and on ecto-ALP activity. On the other hand, okadaic acid (310 nM) and all trans-retinoic acid (1 micro M) significantly increased (3)H-MPP(+) uptake and inhibited ecto-ALP activity. There is a negative correlation between the effect of drugs upon ecto-ALP activity and (3)H-MPP(+) apical transport (r = -0.9; P = 0.0014). We suggest that apical uptake of organic cations in Caco-2 cells is affected by phosphorylation/dephosphorylation mechanisms, and that ecto-ALP activity may be involved in this process.

Uptake of 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium (MPP+) by the JAR human placental choriocarcinoma cell line: comparison with 5-hydroxytryptamine

The aim of this work was to characterize the uptake of 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium (MPP(+)) in the JAR human choriocarcinoma cell line. As JAR cells, as well as the placenta, express the neuronal serotonin transporter (SERT), a comparison between the uptake of (3)H-MPP(+) and (3)H-serotonin ((3)H-5HT) was made. Specific uptake of (3)H-MPP(+) (0.2 microM ) was temperature-, Na(+)- and potential-dependent. 5HT and MPP(+) reduced (3)H-MPP(+) specific uptake (for 5HT, its IC(50) was found to be 4 microM ). The SERT inhibitors desipramine and fluoxetine also inhibited (3)H-MPP(+) specific uptake (with IC(50)s of 189 and 0.92 microM, respectively). The inhibitors of the extraneuronal monoamine transporter (EMT) and of the organic cation transporter type 2 (OCT2), corticosterone and decynium22, had no effect on (3)H-MPP(+) specific uptake, but cyanine863 concentration-dependently reduced it (with an IC(50) of 23 microM ). Specific uptake of (3)H-5HT (0.2 microM ) by JAR cells was temperature-, Na(+)- and potential-dependent. 5HT, MPP(+), desipramine and fluoxetine concentration-dependently inhibited (3)H-5HT specific uptake (with IC(50)s of 1.9 microM, 50 microM, 0.17 microM and 0.046 microM, respectively). Corticosterone showed no effect, but decynium22 and cyanine863 significantly reduced(3) H-5HT specific uptake. For cyanine863, its IC(50) was found to be 11 microM. In conclusion, the results suggest that: (1) uptake of (3)H-5HT by JAR cells occurs exclusively through SERT; (2) uptake of(3) H-MPP(+) by JAR cells involves SERT and also another transporter; (3) neither EMT nor OCT2 are functionally present in JAR cells.

Increased plasma concentration and brain penetration of methamphetamine in behaviorally sensitized rats

Exposure to methamphetamine causes behavioral sensitization in experimental animals. However, the precise mechanism of this behavioral sensitization has not yet been fully elucidated. Accordingly, we evaluated the pharmacokinetic properties of methamphetamine in rats behaviorally sensitized to methamphetamine following its repeated administration (6 mg/kg, i.p., once a day for 5 days followed by a 21-day drug abstinence period). In the sensitized rats, methamphetamine (0.8 mg/kg)-induced locomotor activity was significantly enhanced, suggesting the successful establishment of behavioral sensitization to methamphetamine. Significant increases in the concentrations of methamphetamine in plasma and brain dialysate, as well as the delayed disappearance of methamphetamine from plasma, were observed in the sensitized rats after intravenous injection of methamphetamine (5 mg/kg). The tissue to plasma concentration ratio (Kp) of methamphetamine in lung and heart decreased in the sensitized rats. The renal excretion of methamphetamine, which is sensitive to several cations, was also decreased in the sensitized rats. Moreover, in the sensitized rats, the expression of organic cation transporter 3 (OCT3) mRNA was decreased in kidney, brain and heart as measured by reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Taken together, these results suggest that the behavioral outcome of sensitization to methamphetamine might, in part, be due to the increased levels of methamphetamine in plasma and brain extracellular areas, as well as an altered tissue distribution of methamphetamine associated with changes in the cation transport system.

Agmatine is efficiently transported by non-neuronal monoamine transporters extraneuronal monoamine transporter (EMT) and organic cation transporter 2 (OCT2)

Agmatine has received considerable attention recently. Available evidence suggests that agmatine functions as a neurotransmitter and inhibits, via induction of antizyme, cellular proliferation. Because of its positive charge, agmatine will not appreciably cross cellular membranes by simple diffusion. Indeed, all physiological models require a channel or transporter protein in the plasma membrane to effect inactivation or nonexocytotic release of agmatine. However, a transport mechanism for agmatine has not been identified on a molecular level so far. In the present study, the non-neuronal monoamine transporters, organic cation transporter (OCT) 1, OCT2, and extraneuronal monoamine transporter (EMT) (gene symbols SLC22A1-A3), both from human and rat, were examined, stably expressed in 293 cells, for [(3)H]agmatine transport. Our results indicate that OCT2 and EMT, but not OCT1, efficiently translocate agmatine. The structural homolog putrescine was not accepted as substrate. Uptake of agmatine via EMT and OCT2 was saturable, with K(m) values of 1 to 2 mM. The affinity of OCT1 was 10-fold lower. Carrier-mediated efflux of agmatine was documented in a trans-stimulation experiment. Finally, uptake of agmatine increased dramatically with increasing pH. Thus, only the singly charged species of agmatine is accepted as substrate. In conclusion, both EMT and OCT2 must be considered for the control of agmatine levels in rat and human.

Expression and functional characterization of the extraneuronal monoamine transporter in normal human astrocytes

In this study we examined the functional expression of the extraneuronal monoamine transporter (EMT) in normal human astrocytes (NHA). RT-PCR with EMT-specific primers demonstrated the presence of EMT mRNA in NHA. The RT-PCR products were subjected to restriction-site analysis using three different enzymes (HinfI, SacI and BclI). The restriction patterns with the three enzymes were identical and were exactly as expected from the known restriction map of human EMT cDNA. DNA sequencing was performed for the RT-PCR products from NHA. Sequence analysis demonstrated that the sequences of RT-PCR products were identical to that of EMT. The extract of NHA was immunoblotted with anti-EMT polyclonal antibody raised against EMT polypeptides. Western blotting indicated that anti-EMT polyclonal antibody recognized a band of 63 kDa. Immunocytochemical staining using anti-EMT polyclonal antibody in NHA revealed that the plasma membrane, as well as intracellular, perinuclear compartments, presumably endoplasmic reticulum or Golgi membranes, showed a considerable level of immunoreactivity. We examined the time course of temperature-dependent [3H]MPP+ uptake in NHA for 60 min. Temperature-dependent [3H]MPP+ uptake increased in a time-dependent manner for the initial 45 min and almost reached a plateau level (8.70 +/- 0.59 pmol/mg protein) at 60 min. In the presence of 3 micro m decynium22 (D22) (the most potent EMT inhibitor), temperature-dependent [3H]MPP+ uptake was strongly reduced by 61% (3.39 +/- 0.76 pmol/mg protein at 60 min). D22-sensitive [3H]MPP+ uptake was saturable over a MPP+ concentration of 6.25-200 micro m. Km for this process was 78.01 +/- 7.64 micro m and Vmax was 295.4 +/- 12.8 pmol/mg protein/min. D22-sensitive [3H]MPP+ uptake was reduced when the astrocyte membrane potential was depolarized by increasing the concentration of K+ in the uptake buffer or by adding Ba2+ to the uptake buffer. These results provide evidence that the MPP+ transport activity in NHA is potential-sensitive. Moreover, D22-sensitive [3H]MPP+ uptake was independent of extracellular Na+. D22-sensitive [3H]MPP+ uptake was inhibited by D22, various organic cations, steroids and monoamine neurotransmitters. Our results showed that the EMT is functionally expressed in NHA and may also play a key role in the disposition of cationic drugs, neurosteroids, the neurotoxin MPP+ and monoamine neurotransmitters in the brain.

Organic cation transporter mRNA and function in the rat superior cervical ganglion

Reuptake of extracellular noradrenaline (NA) into superior cervical ganglion (SCG) neurones is mediated by means of the noradrenaline transporter (NAT, uptake 1). We now demonstrate by single-cell RT-PCR that mRNA of the organic cation transporter 3 (OCT3, uptake 2) occurs in rat SCG neurones as well. Furthermore, our RT-PCR analyses reveal the presence of mRNA for novel organic cation transporters 1 and 2 (OCTN1 and OCTN2), but not for OCT1 or OCT2 in the ganglion. Making use of the NAT as a powerful, neurone-specific transporter system, we loaded[3H]-N-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium ([3H]-MPP+) into cultured rat SCG neurones. The ensuing radioactive outflow from these cultures was enhanced by desipramine and reserpine, but reduced (in the presence of desipramine) by the OCT3 inhibitors cyanine 863, oestradiol and corticosterone. In contrast, cyanine 863 enhanced the radioactive outflow from cultures preloaded with [3H]-NA. Two observations suggest that a depletion of storage vesicles by cyanine 863 accounts for the latter phenomenon: first, the primary radioactive product isolated from supernatants of cultures loaded with [3H]-NA was the metabolite [3H]-DHPG; and second, inhibition of MAO significantly reduced the radioactive outflow in response to cyanine 863. The outflow of [3H]-MPP+ was significantly enhanced by MPP+, guanidine, choline and amantadine as potential substrates for OCT-related transmembrane transporters. However, desipramine at a low concentration essentially blocked the radioactive outflow induced by all of these substances with the exception of MPP+, indicating the NAT and not an OCT as their primary site of action. The MPP+-induced release of [3H]-MPP+ was fully prevented by a combined application of desipramine and cyanine 863. No trans-stimulation of [3H]-MPP+ outflow was observed by the OCTN1 and OCTN2 substrate carnitine at 100 microM. Our observations indicate an OCT-mediated transmembrane transport of [3H]-MPP+. Amongst the three OCTs expressed in the SCG, OCT3 best fits the profile of substrates and antagonists that cause trans-stimulation and trans-inhibition, respectively, of [3H]-MPP+ release.

Expression and pharmacological profile of the human organic cation transporters hOCT1, hOCT2 and hOCT3

1. Organic cation transporters (OCTs) are involved in the elimination of monoamines and cationic xenobiotics. To examine whether some cell lines express several different OCTs, we investigated seven human cell lines for the mRNA expression pattern of the human (h) transporters hOCT1, hOCT2 and hOCT3. hOCT1 mRNA was found in all cell lines, six additionally expressed hOCT3 and only two cell lines contained all three hOCTs. 2. Among the three OCTs only for the OCT3 (also designated as 'uptake(2)' or 'extraneuronal monoamine transporter') 'selective' inhibitors are described in the literature. The affinities of the OCT3 inhibitors for the other two OCTs are largely unknown. Therefore, we compared the potencies of eight compounds as inhibitors of hOCT-mediated uptake of the organic cation [(3)H]-1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium ([(3)H]-MPP(+)) in human embryonic kidney 293 (HEK293) cells stably expressing hOCT1, hOCT2 or hOCT3. Decynium-22 inhibited hOCT3 with 10 fold higher potency than hOCT1 and hOCT2. Corticosterone was about 100 fold more potent as inhibitor of hOCT3 than of hOCT1 or hOCT2, and O-methylisoprenaline (OMI) inhibited almost exclusively hOCT3. Progesterone and beta-Oestradiol preferentially inhibited hOCT3 and hOCT1, whereas prazosin was a potent inhibitor of hOCT1 and hOCT3. Phenoxybenzamine (PbA) inhibited with about equal apparent potency all three hOCTs, whereas the PbA derivative SKF550 ((9-fluorenyl)-N-methyl-beta-chloroethylamine) preferentially inhibited hOCT3 and hOCT2. 3. PbA reversibly inhibited hOCT1 and irreversibly hOCT2 and hOCT3; SKF550 also irreversibly inhibited hOCT3 but hOCT2 in a reversible manner. 4. These compounds enable a functional discrimination of the three hOCTs: hOCT1 is selectively inhibited by prazosin, reversibly inhibited by PbA and it is not sensitive to inhibition by SKF550 and OMI; hOCT2 is reversibly inhibited by SKF550, irreversibly by PbA and not by prazosin, beta-oestradiol and OMI, whereas hOCT3 is selectively inhibited by corticosterone, OMI and decynium22.

Antitumor efficacy of SarCNU in a human glioma xenograft model expressing both MGMT and extraneuronal monoamine transporter

Treatment of malignant brain tumors with chloroethylnitrosoureas (CENUs) in addition to surgical resection and radiotherapy remains the foundation of glioma therapy. However, the clinical response to CENUs is at best modest. A novel analogue of nitrosoureas, 2-chloroethyl-3-sarcosinamide-1-nitrosourea (SarCNU), as compared to the standard CENU, 1,3-bis(2-chloroethyl)-1-nitrosourea (BCNU), has been demonstrated to have increased anticancer effects both in vitro and in vivo. Unfortunately, many human tumors have been known to be resistant to CENUs since they express DNA repair protein O6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase (MGMT). In order to assess whether SarCNU has an effect on MGMT positive tumors, we evaluated its antitumor efficacy using an MGMT positive human glioma (SF-767) nude mouse xenograft model. Since SF-767 has high MGMT levels, BCNU treatment (20 mg/kg, Q4D x 3 i.p.) alone did not result in a satisfactory anticancer effect (p > 0.05). As expected, O6-benzylguanine (O6-BG) (100 mg/kg), which was given prior to BCNU treatment, by depleting MGMT activity, significantly enhanced BCNU antitumor efficacy (p < 0.001). Moreover, SarCNU treatment (167 mg/kg, Q4D x 3 i.p.) alone had a better antitumor effect than O6-BG plus BCNU treatment (F = 51.7, p = 0.0004). However, in this xenograft model, O6-BG did not significantly enhance the anticancer efficacy of SarCNU (F = 0.8, p = 0.411). The SF-767 human glioma xenograft is positive for extraneuronal monoamine transporter EMT (EMT) as determined by reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Our present results suggest that SarCNU is also effective for MGMT positive tumor if they exhibit EMT.

Impaired activity of the extraneuronal monoamine transporter system known as uptake-2 in Orct3/Slc22a3-deficient mice

Two uptake systems that control the extracellular concentrations of released monoamine neurotransmitters such as noradrenaline and adrenaline have been described. Uptake-1 is present at presynaptic nerve endings, whereas uptake-2 is extraneuronal and has been identified in myocardium and vascular and nonvascular smooth muscle cells. The gene encoding the uptake-2 transporter has recently been identified in humans (EMT), rats (OCT3), and mice (Orct3/Slc22a3). To generate an in vivo model for uptake-2, we have inactivated the mouse Orct3 gene. Homozygous mutant mice are viable and fertile with no obvious physiological defect and also show no significant imbalance of noradrenaline or dopamine. However, Orct3-null mice show an impaired uptake-2 activity as measured by accumulation of intravenously administered [(3)H]MPP(+) (1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium). A 72% reduction in MPP(+) levels was measured in hearts of both male and female Orct3 mutant mice. No significant differences between wild-type and mutant mice were found in any other adult organ or in plasma. When [(3)H]MPP(+) was injected into pregnant females, a threefold-reduced MPP(+) accumulation was observed in homozygous mutant embryos but not in their placentas or amniotic fluid. These data show that Orct3 is the principal component for uptake-2 function in the adult heart and identify the placenta as a novel site of action of uptake-2 that acts at the fetoplacental interface.

Effect of P-glycoprotein modulators on the human extraneuronal monoamine transporter

The aim of this work was to investigate the effect of P-glycoprotein modulators on human extraneuronal monoamine transporter (EMT)-mediated transport. The experiments were performed using a cell line from human embryonic kidney (HEK293 cells) stably transfected with pcDNA3hEMT (293(hEMT)), or with pcDNA3 alone (293(control)). Of the P-glycoprotein modulators tested, rhodamine123, verapamil and daunomycin concentration-dependently inhibited EMT-mediated uptake of [3H]1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium ([3H]MPP(+)). The corresponding IC(50)'s were found to be 3.6, 37 and 130 microM, respectively. By contrast, vinblastine, digitoxin and cyclosporine A were devoid of effect. The endogenous organic cation tyramine, but not choline, inhibited EMT-mediated transport (IC(50) of 468 microM). Moreover, L-arginine and L-histidine (up to 1 mM) did not affect [3H]MPP(+) uptake. Finally, MPP(+) and tyramine trans-stimulated [3H]MPP(+) uptake, but rhodamine123 had no effect, and verapamil and daunomycin trans-inhibited [3H]MPP(+) uptake. In conclusion, this study shows that several cationic modulators of P-glycoprotein inhibit EMT-mediated transport. As a consequence, the interaction of P-glycoprotein modulators with EMT must be taken into account, and the consequences of this interaction must not be forgotten when using such drugs in vivo.

Dopaminergic activity in transgenic mice underexpressing glucocorticoid receptors: effect of antidepressants

Transgenic mice bearing a transgene coding for a glucocorticoid receptor antisense mRNA, which partially blocks glucocorticoid receptor expression, were used to investigate the long-term effect of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis dysfunction on brain dopamine transmission. Compared to control mice, the transgenic animals showed increased amphetamine-induced locomotor activity and increased concentrations of striatal dopamine and its metabolites dihydroxyphenylacetic acid and homovanillic acid. Binding of [3H]SCH 23390 and [3H]spiperone to, respectively, D1 and D2 dopamine receptors was increased in transgenic mice. In contrast, autoradiography of striatal [3H]GBR 12935 binding to the dopamine transporter was decreased and the mRNA levels of this transporter, measured by in situ hybridization, remained unchanged in the substantia nigra pars compacta. The effect of chronic treatment for two weeks with amitriptyline or fluoxetine was compared in control and transgenic mice. No significant changes were observed in control mice following antidepressant treatment, whereas in transgenic mice both antidepressants reduced striatal [3H]SCH 23390 and [3H]raclopride specific binding to D1 and D2 receptors. Amitriptyline, but not fluoxetine, increased striatal [3H]GBR 12935 binding to the dopamine transporter, whereas its mRNA level in the substantia nigra pars compacta was decreased in fluoxetine, compared to vehicle- or amitriptyline-treated transgenic mice. From these results we suggest that hyperactive dopaminergic activity of the nigrostriatal pathway controls motor activity in the transgenic mice. Furthermore, antidepressant treatment corrected the increased striatal D1 and D2 receptors and decreased dopamine transporter levels in the transgenic mice.

Regulation of serotonin transporter gene expression in human glial cells by growth factors

The aims of this study were to identify monoamine transporters expressed in human glial cells, and to examine the regulation of their expression by stress-related growth factors. The expression of serotonin transporter mRNA was detected by reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction in normal human astrocytes, whereas the dopamine transporter (DAT) and the norepinephrine transporter (NET) were not detected. The cDNA sequence of the "glial" serotonin transporter in astrocytes was consistent with that reported for the "neuronal" serotonin transporter (SERT). Moreover, we also demonstrated SERT expression in glial fibrillary acidic protein-positive cells by immunocytochemical staining in normal human astrocytes. Serotonin transporter gene expression was also detected in glioma-derived cell lines (A172, KG-1-C and KGK). Addition of basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) or epidermal growth factor (EGF) for 2 days increased serotonin transporter gene expression in astrocytes and JAR (human choriocarcinoma cell line). Basic fibroblast growth factor, but not epidermal growth factor, increased specific [3H]serotonin uptake in astrocytes in a time (1-4 days)- and concentration (20-100 ng/ml)-dependent manner. The expression of genes for basic fibroblast growth factor and epidermal growth factor receptors was detected in astrocytes. These findings suggest that the expression of the serotonin transporter in human glial cells is positively regulated by basic fibroblast growth factor.

Regulation of dopamine uptake by basic fibroblast growth factor and epidermal growth factor in cultured rat astrocytes

We examined the characteristics of dopamine (DA) uptake and its regulation by neurotrophic factors such as basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) and epidermal growth factor (EGF) in cultured rat astrocytes. In the presence of inhibitors of monoamine oxidase (MAO) and catechol-O-methyl-transferase (COMT), astrocytes took up DA by Na(+)-dependent and Na(+)-independent mechanisms that were sensitive to a reduction in temperature. The Na(+)-dependent and Na(+)-independent components increased linearly with increasing [3H]DA concentration (1-1000 microM), and showed no saturation. Na(+)-dependent DA uptake was significantly inhibited by ouabain, a Na(+)-K+ ATPase inhibitor. In bFGF-treated astrocytes, [3H]DA uptake increased in a time-dependent manner until 48 h, and declined after 72 h in both the presence and absence of Na+. In EGF-treated astrocytes, [3H]DA uptake increased in a time-dependent manner until 72 h in both the presence and absence of Na +. This enhancement of DA uptake induced by EGF or bFGF was significantly inhibited when the cells were cultured with actinomycin D, cycloheximide, or brefeldin A. Actinomycin D and brefeldin A also significantly inhibited the basal uptake of [3H]DA into astrocytes. These results suggest the existence of Na(+)-dependent and Na(+)-independent DA uptake in cultured rat astrocytes, and that EGF or bFGF might stimulate the expression and translocation of the extraneuronal DA transporter.

Enhanced antitumor activity of sarCNU in comparison to BCNU in an extraneuronal monoamine transporter positive human glioma xenograft model

A novel analogue of nitrosoureas, 2-chloroethyl-3-sarcosinamide-1-nitrosourea (SarCNU), has demonstrated increased anticancer effects in vitro and in vivo. Our previous work suggested that SarCNU enters cells via the extraneuronal monoamine transporter (EMT), that contributes to its enhanced cytotoxicity. In the present study, comparative activities of SarCNU and 1,3-bis(2-chloroethyl)-1-nitrosourea (BCNU) were evaluated in an EMT positive human glioma xenograft model. Athymic nude mice implanted subcutaneously or intracranially with human glioma SHG-44, a cell line that has been confirmed EMT positive by using reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) assay, were treated with SarCNU at an optimal dose of 167 mg/kg, or BCNU at 20 mg/kg or 30 mg/kg, q4d x 3 intraperitoneally (i.p.). In 17 animals with subcutaneous tumor grafts treated with SarCNU, 9 animals became tumor free and 8 demonstrated tumor regression. While in the BCNU treated group, there were only 2 out of 10 mice in the 20 mg/kg group and 2 out of 7 in the 30 mg/kg group, which demonstrated some tumor regression. There were 4 drug related deaths in the BCNU (30 mg/kg) group, while there were no drug related deaths in the SarCNU group. In the intracranially implanted mice, the median survival time in the SarCNU group was more than 130 days, while in the BCNU treated group it was only 22 days which was similar to the control group (18 days). This is the first demonstration that SarCNU, in comparison to BCNU, has enhanced anticancer activity in an EMT positive human glioma xenograft model.

Pharmacological characterization of dopamine transport in cultured rat astrocytes

The effects of GBR-12909 (selective DA uptake inhibitor), zimelidine (selective 5-HT uptake inhibitor) and nisoxetine (selective NE uptake inhibitor) on the uptake of 30 nM [3H]DA into cultured rat astrocytes were examined. [3H]DA uptake was inhibited by approximately 50% by GBR-12909 or zimelidine in a concentration-dependent manner (100 nM to approximately 10 microM). Furthermore, the inhibition curves of GBR-12909 were biphasic, and uptake was completely inhibited by a high concentration of GBR-12909 (100 microM). [3H]DA uptake was also inhibited by approximately 50% by nisoxetine in a concentration-dependent manner (0.1 to approximately 100 nM), and nisoxetine was more potent than GBR-12909 or zimelidine. The inhibitory potencies were in the order nisoxetine > GBR-12909 > zimelidine. The uptake of [3H]DA under Na+-free conditions was approximately 50% of that under normal conditions. Thus, DA was taken up by both Na+-dependent and Na+-independent mechanisms. Nisoxetine (100 nM), zimelidine (100 microM) and GBR-12909 (10 microM) inhibited [3H]DA uptake into astrocytes only in the presence of Na+. On the other hand, this uptake was completely inhibited by a high concentration of GBR-12909 (100 microM) in the absence of Na+. The present data suggest that the Na+-dependent uptake of [3H]DA in cultured rat astrocytes may occur in the NE uptake system. Furthermore, astrocytes express the extraneuronal monoamine transporter (uptake2), which is an Na+-independent system, and this transporter is involved in the inactivation of centrally released DA.

Identity of the organic cation transporter OCT3 as the extraneuronal monoamine transporter (uptake2) and evidence for the expression of the transporter in the brain

We investigated the transport of cationic neurotoxins and neurotransmitters by the potential-sensitive organic transporter OCT3 and its steroid sensitivity using heterologous expression systems and also analyzed the expression of OCT3 in the brain. When expressed in mammalian cells, OCT3 mediates the uptake of the neurotoxin 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium (MPP+) and the neurotransmitter dopamine. Competition experiments show that several cationic neuroactive agents including amphetamines interact with OCT3. When expressed in Xenopus laevis oocytes, OCT3-mediated MPP+ uptake is associated with inward currents under voltage-clamp conditions. The MPP+-induced currents are saturable with respect to MPP+ concentration, and half-maximal saturation (K0.5) occurs at about 25 microM MPP+ with membrane potential clamped at -50 mV. The K0.5 for MPP+ is markedly influenced by membrane potential. OCT3 is inhibited by several steroids, and beta-estradiol is the most potent inhibitor (Ki approximately 1 microM). The pattern of steroid sensitivity of OCT3 is different from that of OCT1 and OCT2 but correlates significantly with that of the extraneuronal monoamine transporter (uptake2). The transport characteristics and steroid sensitivity provide strong evidence for the molecular identity of OCT3 as uptake2. OCT3 is expressed in the brain as evidenced from Northern blot analysis, reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction, and in situ hybridization using OCT3-specific probes. The molecular identity of the transcript hybridizing to the probe has been established by sequencing the reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction product and also by the isolation of the OCT3 cDNA from a brain cDNA library. Regional distribution studies with in situ hybridization show that OCT3 is expressed widely in different brain regions, especially in the hippocampus, cerebellum, and cerebral cortex. OCT3 is likely to play a significant role in the disposition of cationic neurotoxins and neurotransmitters in the brain.

Human neurons express the polyspecific cation transporter hOCT2, which translocates monoamine neurotransmitters, amantadine, and memantine

Recently, we cloned the human cation transporter hOCT2, a member of a new family of polyspecific transporters from kidney, and demonstrated electrogenic uptake of tetraethylammonium, choline, N1-methylnicotinamide, and 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium. Using polymerase chain reaction amplification, cDNA sequencing, in situ hybridization, and immunohistochemistry, we now show that hOCT2 message and protein are expressed in neurons of the cerebral cortex and in various subcortical nuclei. In Xenopus laevis oocytes expressing hOCT2, electrogenic transport of norepinephrine, histamine, dopamine, serotonin, and the antiparkinsonian drugs memantine and amantadine was demonstrated by tracer influx, tracer efflux, electrical measurements, or a combination. Apparent Km values of 1.9 +/- 0.6 mM (norepinephrine), 1.3 +/- 0.3 mM (histamine), 0.39 +/- 0.16 mM (dopamine), 80 +/- 20 microM (serotonin), 34 +/- 5 microM (memantine), and 27 +/- 3 microM (amantadine) were estimated. Measurement of trans-effects in depolarized oocytes and human embryonic kidney cells expressing hOCT2 suggests that there were different rates and specificities for cation influx and efflux. The hypothesis is raised that hOCT2 plays a physiological role in the central nervous system by regulating interstitial concentrations of monoamine neurotransmitters that have evaded high affinity uptake mechanisms. We show that amantadine does not interact with the expressed human Na+/Cl- dopamine cotransporter. However, concentrations of amantadine that are effective for the treatment of Parkinson's disease may increase the interstitial concentrations of dopamine and other aminergic neurotransmitters by competitive inhibition of hOCT2.

Organic cation transporters in intestine, kidney, liver, and brain

This review focuses on sodium-independent transport systems for organic cations in small intestine, liver, kidney, and brain. The roles of P-glycoproteins (MDR) and anion transporters (OATP) in organic cation transport are reported, and two members of the new transporter family OCT are described. The OCT transporters belong to a superfamily that includes multidrug-resistance proteins, facilitative diffusion systems, and proton antiporters. They mediate electrogenic transport of small organic cations with different molecular structures, independently of sodium and proton gradients. The current knowledge of the distribution and functional properties of cloned cation transport systems and of cation transport measured in intact plasma membranes is used to postulate identical or homologous transporters in intestine, liver, kidney, and brain.