Alpha noradrenergic receptors in brain membranes: sodium, magnesium and guanyl nucleotides modulate agonist binding

Selectivity and cooperativity of modulatory ions in a neurotransmitter receptor

Ions play a modulatory role in many proteins. Kainate receptors, members of the ionotropic glutamate receptor family, require both monovalent anions and cations in the extracellular milieu for normal channel activity. Molecular dynamics simulations and extensive relative binding free energy calculations using thermodynamic integration were performed to elucidate the rank order of binding of monovalent cations, using x-ray crystal structures of the GluR5 kainate receptor dimers with bound cations from the alkali metal family. The simulations show good agreement with experiments and reveal that the underlying backbone structure of the binding site is one of the most rigid regions of the protein. A simplified model where the partial charge of coordinating oxygens was varied suggests that selectivity arises from the presence of two carboxylate groups. Furthermore, using a potential of mean force derived from umbrella sampling, we show that the presence of cations lower the energy barrier for anion approach and binding in the buried anion binding cavity.

Regulation of agonist binding to rat ET(B) receptors by cations and GTPgammaS

Endothelins exert their physiological effects through interaction with cell surface receptors that are members of the G-protein-coupled receptor family. The endothelin receptor subtype B (ET(B) receptor) is abundantly expressed in rat cerebellum. Since agonist binding to G-protein-coupled receptors may be modulated by cations and guanine nucleotides, we investigated the effects of cations and guanosine 5'-O-(2-thiotriphosphate) (GTPgammaS) on 125I-endothelin-1 (125I-ET-1) binding to rat cerebellar membranes. Both Na+ and Mg2+-stimulated 125I-ET-1 binding causing an increase in receptor affinity for the agonist. While the effect of the divalent cation was evident at relatively low concentrations (5-10 mM), the stimulatory activity of the monovalent cation appeared at relatively high concentrations (50 mM). Additive activities of 25-50 mM NaCl and 1 mM MgCl2 suggested that monovalent and divalent cations increased receptor affinity for ET-1 by different mechanisms. In the presence of 5 mM MgCl2, 50 mM NaCl caused an additional modest reduction of the Kd value. Whereas 5 mM MgCl2 affected the displacement curves of both ET-3 and suc-[Glu9, Ala11,15]-endothelin-1 (8-21) (IRL 1620), the influence of 50 mM NaCl on these curves was less substantial. All together, these results suggest that modulation of receptor affinity by NaCl depends on the nature of the displacing agonist. In the presence of 5 mM MgCl2 or 50 mM NaCl, a partial regulation of 125I-ET-1 binding by GTPgammaS was detectable, while in the absence of cations no GTPgammaS-dependent inhibition was evident.

Determination of dexmedetomidine in rat plasma by a sensitive [3H]clonidine radioreceptor assay

This paper describes the development and implementation of a sensitive radioreceptor assay (RRA) for determining concentrations of dexmedetomidine, an alpha-2 adrenergic agonist with anesthetic properties, in rat plasma. Calf retina membranes were selected as the alpha-2 adrenergic receptor source, and the alpha-2 antagonist [3H]RX821002 and the alpha-2 agonist [3H]clonidine were evaluated as radioligands. We optimized the binding conditions for both radioligands and chose a radioligand for implementation in the RRA based on the characteristics of the inhibition binding curves with dexmedetomidine. The final method is based on competition between the radioligand [3H]clonidine and dexmedetomidine for high-affinity binding sites present in calf retina membranes. The assay has a coefficient of variation of 8% in the range 23.7-592 pg for 0.2 mL of plasma. This assay can be applied to pharmacokinetic-pharmacodynamic studies of dexmedetomidine.

Membrane localization and guanine nucleotide sensitivity of medullary I1-imidazoline binding sites

Imidazoline binding sites are labeled by [3H]clonidine (I1) or by [3H]idazoxan (I2). I2-sites are mitochondrial. The subcellular localization of I1-sites in brain is unknown. Crude membranes from bovine rostral ventrolateral medulla (RVLM) were further purified by discontinuous sucrose density gradient. Fractions were assayed for I1-site density (Bmax) with [125I]p-iodoclonidine. Nonspecific binding was defined by 10 microM BDF-6143, and alpha 2-adrenergic binding was defined by 10 microM epinephrine. The proportions of I1 and alpha 2 in mitochondrial fractions were similar (28 +/- 3 and 24 +/- 4%, respectively), and both I1 and alpha 2 showed the greatest enrichment within the membrane-enriched fraction (58 +/- 13 and 38 +/- 4%). The myelin fraction contained a higher proportion of alpha 2 than I1 (38 +/- 4 and 15 +/- 2%), consistent with expression of alpha 2, but not I1, by glia. The enrichment of I1 and alpha 2 in cellular membranes and alpha 2 in myelin was confirmed by further purification of these fractions over a second discontinuous gradient. Following irreversible inactivation of alpha 2, the remaining I1 sites in RVLM crude membranes were inhibited by Gpp(NH)p but not by ATP. We conclude that I1-imidazoline sites are non-mitochondrial membrane proteins sensitive to guanine nucleotide and may be functional receptors.

Platelet I1-imidazoline binding sites are elevated in depression but not generalized anxiety disorder

Depressed patients have been reported to have a higher than normal density of platelet binding sites for 3H-clonidine, an alpha 2-adrenoceptor agonist. Paradoxically, other studies using 3H-alpha 2, antagonists have found no differences from controls. Because 3H-clonidine interacts with platelet alpha 2-adrenoceptors to form G-protein complexes, whereas 3H-alpha 2-antagonists bind with uncoupled receptors, an elevation in G-protein coupling might explain this paradox. Another possibility is that depression might be associated with increased non-adrenergic I1-imidazoline binding sites, which are also clonidine sensitive. To distinguish these possibilities, we utilized p125I-clonidine to measure density (Bmax) and affinity (KD) of platelet G-protein coupled alpha 2-adrenoceptors as well as platelet I1 binding sites, and compared diagnostic groups of major depressive disorder (MDD), generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and healthy subjects. Specific inhibition of binding by norepinephrine (NE = 10 microM) was used to selectively quantify alpha 2-adrenoceptors, whereas inhibition by 10 microM moxonidine (a > 100-fold selective I1 ligand) quantified I1 binding sites under a NE mask. I1 sites were found to be markedly elevated by, on average, +136% in MDD patients (p = .0007), whereas there was only a marginal increase in alpha 2-adrenoceptor Bmax values in MDD patients (p = .08; GAD and healthy subjects did not differ). Treatment of MDD patients for 6-8 weeks with desipramine downregulated I1 sites as well as alpha 2-adrenoceptors. Positive correlations were also noted for both sites: (a) between Bmax values and the severity of depression (using the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale); and (b) between end-of-treatment plasma desipramine concentrations and the extent of downregulation in Bmax values when subject groups were pooled. None of the binding parameters was associated with plasma catecholamine concentrations. The results suggest that an increased density of platelet I1 binding sites may partially explain the utility of radiolabeled clonidine as a potential biological marker for depressive illness, although an additional increase in G-protein coupling cannot be excluded.

Alpha 2-adrenoceptors in brain and kidney during development of hypertension in Dahl-Iwai salt-sensitive rats

BACKGROUND

Both renal and extrarenal factors have been considered to contribute to the development of hypertension in Dahl salt-sensitive rats, but contents of both factors have not been established precisely.

AIM

To clarify the role of those factors in the sympathetic nervous system, we examined the regulation of alpha2-adrenoceptors in the lower brainstem and the renal tubular basolateral membranes simultaneously during the development of salt-induced hypertension in Dahl-Iwai salt-sensitive rats.

METHODS

Dahl-Iwai salt-sensitive or resistant rats were fed a high (8.0% NaCl)- or low (0.3%)- salt diet from 4 to 6 or 10 weeks of age. At 4, 6 and 10 weeks of age, the plasma membranes of the lower brainstem and the renal tubular basolateral membranes were obtained simultaneously and alpha 2-adrenoceptors were quantified by a radioligand binding assay using 3H-rauwolscine.

RESULTS

In the salt-sensitive rats, systolic blood pressure was significantly higher in those fed a high-salt diet than in those fed a low-salt diet. In the salt-resistant rats, both the high- and the low-salt groups showed similar blood pressure levels. At 6 weeks of age, alpha 2-receptor densities of the salt-sensitive rats fed a high-salt diet were lower in the lower brainstem and higher in the renal basolateral membranes than those fed a low-salt diet. In contrast, in the salt-resistant rats, both the high- and the low-salt groups had similar densities. At 10 weeks of age, the difference between the high- and the low-salt groups in the salt-sensitive rats disappeared in both the brainstem and the renal basolateral membranes.

CONCLUSIONS

Alpha 2-adrenoceptor regulation in the brainstem and the renal basolateral membranes differs between Dahl-Iwai salt-sensitive and salt-resistant rats. The modulation of alpha 2-adrenoceptors by a high salt intake may be essential particularly in the early phase of the development of salt-induced hypertension.

Imidazoline receptors, non-adrenergic idazoxan binding sites and alpha 2-adrenoceptors in the human central nervous system

Both [3H]clonidine and [3H]idazoxan bind to alpha 2 adrenoceptors. The former also labels imidazoline receptors, and the latter non-adrenergic idazoxan binding sites. In order to investigate whether the imidazoline receptors and non-adrenergic idazoxan binding sites are identical, we compared the binding characteristics of [3H]clonidine and [3H]idazoxan to these sites by radioligand binding experiments on ultra-thin slices and homogenates of human striatum. A good correlation was found between the effect of different ions on the binding characteristics of [3H]clonidine and [3H]idazoxan, and the affinities of most competing drugs. However, clonidine and rilmenidine displayed a 100- and 10-fold lower affinity, respectively, for the idazoxan binding sites than for the imidazoline receptors. Autoradiography with [3H]clonidine showed that high densities of imidazoline receptors were present in the striatum, pallidum, gyrus dentatus of the hippocampus, amygdala, and substantia nigra. Moderate densities were found throughout the cerebral cortex, thalamus and several brainstem nuclei including the nucleus olivarius inferior. Low densities were seen in the cerebellum, spinal cord and pituitary gland. As for the non-adrenergic sites labelled by [3H]idazoxan, the imidazoline receptors can be found in all major brain areas examined. However, there are some striking differences between the concentrations of imidazoline receptors and non-adrenergic idazoxan binding sites in certain brain regions. To reconcile distribution and pharmacologic data, we propose that imidazoline receptors and non-adrenergic idazoxan binding sites represent different proteins or protein complexes and that at least in the nucleus reticularis lateralis and the striatum, imidazoline receptors and non-adrenergic idazoxan binding sites may be physically associated. The regional distribution of alpha 2 adrenoceptors within the human CNS was determined by quantitative autoradiography with [3H]RX821002. The highest densities of alpha 2 adrenoceptors were found in the cerebral and cerebellar cortex, and certain regions in the medulla oblongata (floor of the IV ventricle, reticular formation, hypoglossal nucleus and nucleus olivarius inferior). No alpha 2 adrenoceptors were detected in the pituitary gland. There exists no relationship between the distribution pattern of imidazoline receptors and alpha 2 adrenoceptors, indicating that these binding sites are independent from each other.

Binding of [3H]clonidine to I1-imidazoline sites in bovine adrenal medullary membranes

Imidazolines bind with high affinity not only to alpha-adrenoceptors but also to specific imidazoline binding sites (IBS) labelled by either [3H]clonidine or [3H]idazoxan and termed I1- and I2-IBS, respectively. Since bovine adrenal chromaffin cells lack alpha 2-adrenoceptors, we investigated the pharmacological characteristics of [3H]clonidine binding sites in the bovine adrenal medulla. The binding of [3H]clonidine was rapid, reversible, partly specific (as defined by naphazoline 0.1 mmol/l; 55% specific binding at [3H]clonidine 10 nmol/l), saturable and of high affinity. The specific binding of [3H]clonidine to bovine adrenal medullary membranes was concentration-dependently inhibited by various imidazolines, guanidines and an oxazoline derivative but not, or with negligible affinity, by rauwolscine and (-)-adrenaline. In most cases, the competition curves were best fitted to a two-site model. The rank order of affinity for the high affinity site (in a few cases the single detectable site) was as follows: naphazoline > or = BDF 7579 (4-chloro-2-isoindolinyl guanidine) > or = clonidine > or = cirazoline > or = BDF 6143 (4-chloro-2-(2-imidazoline-2-ylamino)-isoindoline hydrochloride) > BDF 7572 (4,7-chloro-2-(2-imidazolin-2-ylamino)-isoindoline) > moxonidine = rilmenidine > BDF 6100 (2-(2-imidazoline-2-ylamino)-isoindoline) = idazoxan > phentolamine > aganodine = guanabenz > amiloride > histamine. This rank order is compatible with the pharmacological properties of the I1-IBS. The non-hydrolysable GTP-analogue Gpp(NH)p (5'guanylylimidodiphosphate; 100 mumol/l) inhibited specific [3H]clonidine binding by about 50%. Equilibrium [3H]clonidine binding was also significantly reduced by K+ and Mg2+.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Effects of mono- and divalent ions on the binding of the adenosine analogue CGS 21680 to adenosine A2 receptors in rat striatum

The effect of monovalent and divalent cations on equilibrium binding of the adenosine A2-selective agonist ligand CGS 21680 (2-[p-(2-carbonylethyl)phenylethylamino]-5'-N-ethylcarboxami doadenosine) to membranes prepared from rat striatum was examined. Competition experiments with cyclohexyladenosine, 2-chloroadenosine, N-ethylcarboxamidoadenosine and CGS 21680 suggest that at 2 nM [3H]CGS 21680 binds to a single site with the pharmacology of an A2a receptor. Magnesium and calcium ions caused a concentration-dependent increase in binding that reached about 10-fold at 100 mM. Manganese ions had a biphasic effect on binding with a maximal increase at 5 mM. Lithium, sodium and potassium ions all caused a concentration-dependent decrease of binding. Sodium was most potent, potassium least. At 200 mM ion concentration, the inhibition of binding was 88% by sodium, 47% by lithium and 29% by potassium ions. The effect of sodium chloride was the same as that of sodium acetate. The effect of sodium ions was essentially similar to that of Gpp(NH)p. However, sodium ions produced a larger effect than even maximally effective concentrations of Gpp(NH)p. The maximal inhibition by Gpp(NH)p was about 55% at 2 nM radioligand concentration irrespective of the magnesium concentration. The maximal effect of sodium ions was reduced by increasing concentrations of magnesium ions. Increasing magnesium ion concentration from 1 to 100 mM increased the half-maximally effective concentration of Gpp(NH)p almost 10-fold and that of sodium ions less than 2-fold. Furthermore, sodium ions and Gpp(NH)p had additive effects. The binding of an agonist to striatal A2a receptors shows an unusually large dependence on both divalent and monovalent cations that can only partly be explained by a change in the coupling to Gs proteins.

Guanine nucleotide sensitivity of [3H]iloprost binding to prostacyclin receptors

A component of the displaceable binding of the stable prostacyclin analogue, [3H]iloprost, to membranes from human platelets and the somatic hybrid cell lines NG108-15 and NCB20, was inhibited by guanine nucleotides. The order of potency of a range of nucleotides for this effect was GTP gamma S greater than GppNHp greater than GTP greater than GDP = GMP; ATP, UTP and CTP were ineffective at concentrations up to 1 mM. In the presence of 100 microM GppNHp, iloprost binding curves were displaced to the right of curves obtained in the absence of guanine nucleotide, and their Hill slopes were greater. This was consistent with a conversion of a minor population of high affinity agonist binding sites to lower affinity sites in the presence of guanine nucleotides. These effects of guanine nucleotides on the binding of the agonist ligand [3H]iloprost were consistent with an interaction with a G protein coupled receptor.

Characterization of the murine pancreatic receptor for gastrin releasing peptide and bombesin

The murine pancreatic receptor for bombesin and gastrin releasing peptide (GRP) has been characterized. Analysis of the binding of 125I-GRP to membranes indicates a single class of sites (10(-13) mol/mg protein) with Kd of 43 pM. A 70 kDa membrane protein was cross-linked to 125I-GRP by bis(sulfosuccinimidyl) suberate; labeling was blocked by GRP, GRP (14-27), AcGRP(20-27), GRP(18-27), bombesin and ranatensin, was partially blocked by [Leu13 psi (CH2NH)Leu14]bombesin and was unaffected by GRP(21-27) and GRP(1-16). The IC50 values for the competitive displacement of 125I-GRP from intact membranes by these peptides were similar to those obtained by the cross-linking experiments showing that the 70 kDa protein is the GRP receptor. The GRP receptor is G-protein coupled; divalent cations are required for high-affinity binding and nonhydrolyzable GTP analogs decrease receptor affinity. In minced pancreas, GRP caused a dose-dependent increase in inositol phosphates implicating phospholipase C in signal transduction. We suggest that the murine pancreatic receptor for bombesin/GRP is a 70 kDa membrane protein, is associated with a G-protein and stimulates phosphatidylinositol turnover.

Sodium regulation of alpha 2-adrenoreceptors in Dahl rats. Effect of feeding a low or high salt diet

Sodium regulation of alpha 2-adrenoreceptors was investigated in inbred salt-sensitive (S) and inbred salt-resistant (R) rats fed a high or low salt diet. The systolic blood pressure was higher in S rats than in R rats, and this difference was obviously greater on a high salt diet. In rats fed a low or high salt diet, S rats had higher alpha 2-adrenoreceptor density in the kidneys compared with R rats as measured by [3H]yohimbine binding and Scatchard analysis. The affinity of the receptors in the kidney for the antagonist, yohimbine, was nearly the same in these two strains either on a low or high salt diet. In the brain, the affinities or the numbers of receptors were not significantly different whether these two strains were fed a low or high salt diet. Inclusion of NaCl up to 80 mM in the assay medium did not alter the in vitro binding of [3H]yohimbine in the kidney or brain. On the other hand, inclusion of NaCl in the assay medium reduced the ability of epinephrine in competing with [3H]yohimbine for the receptor sites in the kidney and in the brain, and this effect of NaCl was the same in a given tissue between S and R rats, whether they were fed a low or high salt diet. These results suggest that: (1) in the kidneys, the receptor density and not the receptor affinity was different between S and R strains whether they were fed a low or high salt diet; (2) in the brain, the receptor density and affinity were the same between S and R rats regardless of the diet (low or high salt), indicating that the sodium salt diet modulates the peripheral but not the central alpha 2-adrenoreceptors; and this modulatory effect was observed only in S rats; (3) Na+ was able to reduce the affinity of the agonist (epinephrine) for the receptors in both S and R rats, and this effect of Na+ on central and peripheral alpha 2-adrenoreceptors was similar in prehypertensive rats and rats with salt-induced hypertension; and (4) the resistance of R rats to salt-induced hypertension was not due to the absence of Na+ binding component involved in the regulation of alpha 2-adrenoreceptor-adenylate cyclase complex.

Dual Mg2+ control of formyl-peptide-receptor--G-protein interaction in HL 60 cells. Evidence that the low-agonist-affinity receptor interacts with and activates the G-protein

In neutrophils and several other phagocytic cell types, a pertussis- and cholera-toxin-sensitive form of the guanine-nucleotide-binding protein (G-protein) Gp couples receptors for N-formylmethionine-containing chemotactic peptides to stimulation of phospholipase C. Using membranes of myeloid differentiated HL 60 cells, we have examined the role of Mg2+ and guanine nucleotides in regulating (a) the interaction of the formyl-peptide receptor with the chemotactic agonist N-formylmethionyl-leucyl-phenylalanine (fMet-Leu-Phe) and (b) the receptor-mediated activation of Gp. Mg2+ markedly enhanced the number of receptors with high affinity for the radiolabeled oligopeptide fMet-Leu-[3H]Phe. At the same time, Mg2+ largely increased the potency of guanosine-5'-(3-O-thio)triphosphate, but not of GDP or guanosine-5'-(2-O-thio)diphosphate, to inhibit binding of the peptide. Comparison of the potency of Mg2+ in eliciting these two effects and analysis of the specificities of the relevant divalent cation sites revealed that Mg2+ interacts with at least two independent sites on the receptor-Gp complex. One site is specific for Mg2+ and exhibits affinity in the micromolar range, the other site interacts with millimolar concentrations of several divalent cations in a non-selective fashion. It is suggested that the former site is located on Gp and that interaction of Mg2+ with this site is necessary for the receptor-mediated G-protein activation, whereas interaction of divalent cations with the latter site is necessary for high affinity agonist binding. The regulation of the formyl-peptide receptor binding properties by guanine nucleotides is independent of Gp activation, since inhibition of peptide binding is achieved by addition of both guanine nucleoside diphosphates and triphosphates and is readily seen both in the presence and in the absence of Mg2+. The latter finding, together with the observation that, at micromolar concentrations of Mg2+, high-affinity GTPase activity is stimulated by fMet-Leu-Phe primarily via low affinity receptors, suggests that, contrary to widely held opinions, (a) divalent cations are not required for a functional receptor--G-protein interaction and (b) high-affinity agonist binding is not a prerequisite for the receptor-mediated activation of the G-protein.

Reciprocal interactions between alpha 2-adrenoceptor agonist and neuropeptide Y binding sites in the nucleus tractus solitarius of the rat. A biochemic and autoradiographic analysis

Interactions between a alpha 2-adrenoceptor agonist and neuropeptide Y (NPY) binding sites have been studied in the rat medulla oblongata (MO) using biochemical binding techniques as well as quantitative autoradiography. Tritiated para-amino clonidine (3H-PAC; alpha 2-adrenoceptor agonist), idazoxan (3H-IDA; alpha 2-adrenoceptor antagonist) and iodinated neuropeptide Y (125I-NPY) were used as radioligands. (1) Neuropeptide Y (NPY; 10(-8) M) but not bovine pancreatic polypeptide (BPP) nor peptide YY (PYY 10 nM) increased the KD value of 3H-PAC binding sites. However, intraventricular administration of a high dose of NPY (1.25 nmol) did not change the 3H-PAC binding characteristics in MO membrane preparations of these animals. (2) GTP 10(-4) lowered the affinity of 3H-PAC binding. NPY (10 nM) had no additional effect, nor did NPY influence the GTP induced shift in potency of clonidine to displace 3H-IDA from its binding sites. (3) In the autoradiographical experiments NPY (10 nM) significantly reduced 3H-PAC binding (2 nM) in the nucleus tractus solitarius (NTS) area by 35%. (4) When clonidine, either given centrally in vivo (3.75 nmol) or in vitro (10 nM) the binding of 125I-NPY was reduced (34 and 24%, respectively) in the NTS. When the monoamine receptors were irreversibly blocked in vivo by N-ethoxycarbonyl-2-ethoxy-1,2-dihydroquinoline (EEDQ, 10 micrograms i.c. 24 h) 125I-NPY (0.5 nM) binding was increased by 137% in the NTS. This effect of EEDQ was prevented by pretreatment with the alpha 2-adrenoceptor antagonist idazoxan. These results provide support for a direct intramembrane interaction between the alpha 2-receptor and the NPY receptor within the NTS and may be of importance in central cardiovascular regulation.

Influence of an uremia-associated serum factor on CNS alpha 2-adrenoceptors

The action of blood serum from uremic rats and chronically hemodialyzed patients was investigated for effects on alpha 2-adrenoceptors labeled with 3H-clonidine. Compared to blood sera of rats and patients with normal kidney function, uremic serum significantly inhibited specific 3H-clonidine binding. In saturation experiments the density and affinity of alpha 2-adrenoceptors for 3H-clonidine was lowered by uremic serum. Heating, or trypsin or lipase treatment of the serum did not affect this phenomenon. The effect of the patient's serum could likewise be demonstrated after hemodialysis treatment. The presence of an allosteric regulating substance for clonidine binding to adrenoceptors could at least partially explain the altered and attenuated action of this drug in renal insufficiency.

Interactions of heparin with alpha-2-adrenoceptors

The interactions of the anticoagulant Heparin with the alpha-2-adrenoceptor in rat brain cortex membranes were investigated. Binding experiments with 3H-Clonidine were performed in both the absence and presence of Heparin. 1 uM Na-Heparin caused a significant decrease in the maximal number of binding sites (Bmax) from 129.4 fmol/mg protein to 93.7 fmol/mg protein with an associated decrease in affinity (KD = 0.79 pM vs. KD = 1.53 pM) of these binding sites. Addition of Na+-Heparin to 3H-Clonidine (3.1 nM) labelled membranes inhibited 50% of specific 3H-Clonidine binding (IC50) at a concentration of 0.95 uM. Based on our findings we conclude that the simultaneous long term administration of Na-Heparin and the antihypertensive agonist Clonidine should be regarded under consideration of the inhibitory effect of Na-Heparin to the alpha-2-adrenoceptors.

Nucleotide interactions with 5-HT1A binding sites directly labeled by [3H]-8-hydroxy-2-(DI-n-propylamino)tetralin ([3H]-8-OH-DPAT)

Nucleotide interactions were examined at 5-hydroxytryptamine1A (5-HT1A) binding sites labeled by [3H]-8-hydroxy-2-(di-n-propylamino)tetralin (8-OH-DPAT). At a 10(-4) M concentration, GTP and GDP decreased specific binding of 0.4 nM [3H]-8-OH-DPAT to 47 +/- 4 and 61 +/- 1% of control values respectively. This nucleotide effect was significantly greater (P less than 0.005) than observed at total 5-HT1 binding sites labeled by 1.5 nM [3H]-5-HT. GMP and adenine nucleotides had a minimal effect on [3H]-8-OH-DPAT binding at concentrations less than 10(-3) M. Saturation experiments demonstrated that 10(-4) M GTP increased the KD of [3H]-8-OH-DPAT for 5-HT1A binding sites (0.79 to 2.7 nM) without changing the number of binding sites (1.98 to 1.93 pmoles/g tissue). The Ki values of classic and novel putative 5-HT agonists were increased 2- to 4-fold in the presence of 10(-4) M GTP. Affinities of 5-HT antagonists for the [3H]-8-OH-DPAT site were not affected by the addition of 10(-4) M GTP to the binding assay.

[3H]clonidine binds at multiple high affinity states in human prefrontal cortex

[3H]Clonidine binds at particulate membrane fractions of human prefrontal cortex in a process that demonstrates high affinity, saturability, reversibility, alpha 2-adrenergic selectivity and the existence of multiple affinity states. At 37 degrees C maximal specific [3H]clonidine binding was briefly attained at 10 and lasted only until 15 min, while at 21 degrees C maximal binding was maintained from 20 to 90 min. At 21 degrees C, rate dissociation studies and saturation analyses were at least biphasic, and adrenergic competitors decreased [3H]clonidine binding with Hill coefficients less than 0.70. Analysis of these data showed at least two affinity states with apparent KDs of 0.34 and 6.0 nM, and the order in which ligands decreased [3H]clonidine binding was clonidine greater than (-)-epinephrine greater than (-)-norepinephrine greater than yohimbine greater than (+)-norepinephrine greater than (+/-)-isoproterenol greater than prazosin greater than serotonin.

Binding characteristics of the selective alpha 2-adrenoceptor antagonist [3H]idazoxan to rat olfactory cortex membranes

[3H]Idazoxan binding to membranes prepared from rat olfactory cortex obeyed saturation kinetics and was to a single population of sites. Although the density of sites was dependent on the incubation medium, binding was of high affinity (KD approximately 5.5 nM) with a Hill coefficient close to unity. Competition studies with a range of adrenoceptor agonists and antagonists confirmed that [3H]idazoxan binding was to alpha 2-adrenoceptors. Neither chemical lesions with the neurotoxin kainic acid nor chronic unilateral bulbectomy significantly altered any of the [3H]idazoxan binding parameters. These findings suggest that alpha 2-adrenoceptors are not located on the lateral olfactory tract terminals or pyramidal cells of the olfactory cortex.

Alpha-1 and alpha-2 adrenoceptor binding in cerebral cortex: role of disulfide and sulfhydryl groups

The tritiated adrenergic antagonists Prazosin ([3H]PRZ) and Idazoxan ([3H]IDA, or RX-781094) bind specifically and with high affinity to alpha 1 and alpha 2-adrenoceptors respectively, in membrane preparations from cerebral cortex. Saturation experiments performed to determine the density of receptors and the dissociation constant (Kd) were analyzed by the methods of Eadie Hofstee, iterative modelling, and the procedure of Hill, while the specificity of the labelling was verified by displacement experiments. Since receptors are proteins, we examined the role of disulfide (-SS-) bridges and sulfhydryl (-SH) groups in the specific combination of [3H]PRZ and [3H]IDA to the alpha 1 and alpha 2 adrenoceptors. Pretreatment of the membranes with the -SS- reactive DL-dithiothreitol (DTT) or the alkylating agent N-ethylmaleimide (NEM), alone or in combination, decreased specific binding of both ligands, with only minor changes in the non-specific counts. The [3H]IDA binding (alpha 2-sites) was more sensitive to both DTT and NEM than the [3H]PRZ sites (alpha 1-adrenoceptors), and the initial changes induced by alkylation of the alpha 2-site were due to an important decrease in the affinity for [3H]IDA, as judged by the increase in the Kd. This modulation in the affinity caused by alkylation of a thiol group could explain the higher potency of the blocking agent tetramine disulfide benextramine at the alpha 2-site. The results provide evidence for the participation of -SS- and -SH groups in the binding site of alpha 1- and alpha 2-adrenoceptors in the cerebral cortex.

Stereospecific binding sites for [3H]nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide in the rat brain

NAD is a potent inhibitor of electrical activity in the dentate gyrus of the guinea pig hippocampus. NAD is rapidly degraded by an NADase enzyme present on synaptosomal membranes that we have recently found to be inhibited by nicotinamide mononucleotide. In this report we have characterised the binding sites present on brain membranes for [3H]NAD in the presence of this inhibitor. We have demonstrated two binding sites of KdS 49 nM and 4.26 microM that are modulated by GTP. From structure-activity studies we have shown the binding to be stereospecific for the beta-isomer of NAD requiring the whole of the molecule for full receptor affinity. The binding sites are distinct from those reported for adenosine and their presence has significance for the physiological role of NAD in the mammalian brain.

Regulation of central alpha-adrenoceptors by serotoninergic denervation

Alpha 1- and alpha 2-adrenoceptors were assessed by binding studies using [3H]prazosin and [3H]p-aminoclonidine as ligands in membrane preparations from the cortex, hippocampus and hypothalamus of rats, 3 weeks after intracerebroventricular injection of the neurotoxin 5,7-dihydroxytryptamine. Cortical alpha 1 and hippocampal alpha 2 adrenoceptors were significantly increased. Treatment also affected the affinity of cortical alpha 2 adrenoceptors. These results suggest a heterologous, region-specific regulation of both subtypes of central alpha-adrenergic receptors by serotonin.

Chronic salt loading and central adrenergic mechanisms in the spontaneously hypertensive rat

The effects of chronic salt loading on central adrenergic mechanisms were evaluated in spontaneously hypertensive rats maintained on tap water or 1.2% sodium chloride drinking water for 4 weeks. Basal blood pressure was increased by 10% in the high salt group. Central catecholamines were measured spectrofluorimetrically after cation exchange chromatography. Endogenous levels of noradrenaline (NA) were not influenced by salt loading but the NA turnover (disappearance of NA following synthesis inhibition by alpha-methyltyrosine) was increased in the hemisperes. Central alpha 2-adrenoceptor sensitivity was assessed as the clonidine-induced reduction in blood pressure and as the clonidine-induced deceleration of NA turnover and locus coeruleus (LC) NA cell firing rate (single unit recording). The results were slightly disparate but the unchanged sensitivity of clonidine to reduce LC NA cell firing suggests that there were no alterations in central alpha 2-adrenoceptor sensitivity following a salt load. There were also no changes in alpha 1-adrenoceptor function, which was assessed semiquantitatively as the clonidine-induced increase in flexor reflex activity in spinalized rats. In salt loaded rats there was an enhanced blood pressure and heart rate reduction following ganglionic blockade which may be interpreted as an increased basal sympathetic tone. In the periphery the pressor responses to phenylephrine were increased whereas the chronotropic response to isoprenaline was unchanged. In conclusion, in the spontaneously hypertensive rat on a high salt intake the aggravated development of hypertension was not associated with major changes in central alpha 1 and alpha 2-adrenoceptor mediated functions or in neuronal activity of brain stem NA neurons. There were indications of an increased basal sympathetic tone and increased blood pressure response to pressor substances.

[3H]p-Aminoclonidine binding to multiple alpha 2-adrenoceptor sites in homogenates of cat frontal cortex and cat spinal cord

We have investigated the characteristics of [3H]p-aminoclonidine binding to homogenates of cat frontal cortex and of cat spinal cord. At 37 degrees C, saturable [3H]p-aminoclonidine binding displayed rapid association and dissociation kinetics. Scatchard plots of data obtained from either tissue were consistently biphasic. Computer-assisted nonlinear least squares regression analysis based upon a one ligand/two binding site model was employed to resolve these plots into two linear components. The results of this analysis indicate that, for homogenates of either tissue, the KD of [3H]p-aminoclonidine binding, to the high and low affinity binding sites respectively, is approximately 0.5 nM and 9 nM. Mean Bmax values (fmol/mg protein), for the high and low affinity binding sites respectively, of 28 and 149 for homogenates of cat frontal cortex and 7.1 and 56 for homogenates of cat spinal cord were obtained. The results of competitive inhibition experiments, where 0.13 nM [3H]p-aminoclonidine was used, indicate that catecholamines compete for [3H]p-aminoclonidine binding sites in a stereoselective fashion, and that these sites possess a pharmacology characteristic of alpha 2-adrenoceptors. The results of Hill analysis of the competition data suggest that alpha 2-adrenoceptor agonists and alpha 2-adrenoceptor antagonists possess selective affinity for these two alpha 2-adrenoceptor binding sites. The two populations of saturable [3H]p-aminoclonidine binding sites appear to correspond to those alpha 2-adrenoceptor ligand binding sites that have been referred to as the 'super high' and 'high' affinity state of the alpha 2-adrenoceptors.

Cholecystokinin in vivo reduces binding to rat hypothalamic beta-adrenergic sites

Intraperitoneal injection of sulfated cholecystokinin octapeptide (CCK-8; 10 micrograms/kg) resulted in an increase in the IC50 for isoproterenol (4.2 microM to 23.3 microM) in displacing 1 nM 3H-dihydroalprenolol binding to rat hypothalamic membranes. 3H-p-Aminoclonidine binding was also lower in membranes prepared from CCK-treated rats, but the decrease was not statistically significant. In vitro, CCK(1-100 nM) had no effect on either alpha- or beta-adrenergic binding or on the 5'-guanylylimidodiphosphate modulation of binding. The results indicate that CCK does not act directly upon adrenergic receptors, but may reduce beta-adrenergic affinity through indirect means.

Interactions of endogenous and exogenous norepinephrine with alpha 2 adrenoceptor binding sites in rat cerebral cortex

The specific binding of (3H)yohimbine to alpha 2 adrenoceptors in rat cerebral cortex varied significantly with methods of membrane preparation. Membranes prepared in a sucrose containing buffer showed markedly lower Bmax values than those prepared in hypotonic buffer without any change in affinity (Kd) for (3H)yohimbine. Higher concentrations of residual endogenous norepinephrine were found in sucrose prepared membranes. In the presence of exogenous norepinephrine (10(-8), 10(-7) M), membranes prepared in hypotonic buffer showed apparent reduced receptor densities similar to those observed in sucrose prepared cerebral membranes. The presence of exogenous norepinephrine did not produce any apparent change in the overall Kd for (3H)yohimbine. The depression of (3H)yohimbine binding capacities could, in all cases, be reversed by performing incubations in the presence of 200 mM NaCl and 10 microM Gpp(NH)p which synergistically dramatically reduce the affinity of norepinephrine for cerebral alpha 2 adrenoceptors. It is concluded, therefore, that the lower (3H)yohimbine binding capacities in sucrose prepared membranes appears to be due to the occupancy of receptor sites by residual norepinephrine in a pseudo non competitive manner. The reduced affinity of retained endogenous norepinephrine for the alpha 2 adrenoceptor, in the presence of Na+ and guanine nucleotides, would seem to be the cause of the apparent increase in (3H)yohimbine binding sites produced by these modulators in sucrose prepared membranes.

Distribution of alpha 2 agonist binding sites in the rat and human central nervous system: analysis of some functional, anatomic correlates of the pharmacologic effects of clonidine and related adrenergic agents

Using [3H]para-aminoclonidine, alpha 2 adrenergic binding sites have been mapped in the rat and human CNS using in vitro labeling autoradiographic techniques. In both the rat and human thoracic spinal cord, high densities of alpha 2 binding sites were associated with the substantia gelatinosa and the intermediolateral cell column. In the rat medulla, high binding site density was observed in the medial nucleus of the solitary tract, dorsal motor nucleus of the vagus, raphe pallidus and the substantia gelatinosa of the trigeminal nucleus, while lower levels of specific binding were found in the lateral and ventrolateral medulla. In the human, a similar distribution was observed. However, significantly lower levels of specific binding were seen in the medial nts as opposed to the dmv. In the rat, high levels of specific binding were seen at pontine and midbrain levels in the locus coeruleus, parabrachial nucleus and periaqueductal gray. In the forebrain, several hypothalmic and limbic regions, including the paraventricular and arcuate nuclei of the hypothalamus, the central, medial and basal nuclei of the amygdala, lateral septum and bed nucleus of the stria terminalis and pyriform, entorhinal and insular cortex were labeled. Each of these regions are involved in either modulating autonomic functions directly or integrating somatosensory and/or affective function with autonomic mechanisms. Further, these regions are interrelated by reciprocal connections, and neurons that utilize noradrenaline or adrenaline as their neurotransmitter form a vital part of these connections. Thus, these functional, anatomical and neurochemical correlates of the alpha 2 binding site distribution establish a neurological basis for the complex pharmacological effects of centrally acting alpha 2 agonists.

Solubilization and reconstitution of alpha 2-adrenergic receptors from rat and calf brain

Sodium cholate and digitonin were used to solubilize alpha2-adrenergic receptors from rat and calf brain. Sodium cholate extracted 40-50% of the membrane protein and 25-30% of the binding capacity. Digitonin extracted only 20-30% of the membrane protein and only 10-15% of the binding capacity of the native membranes. Both detergents were removed by dialysis in the presence of phospholipids, and the solubilized protein was precipitated upon addition of poly(ethyleneglycol) and magnesium. In the solubilization/reconstitution process no purification of the alpha2-adrenergic receptor was obtained, most probably due to its inactivation by the solubilization conditions. The reconstituted protein(s) tested for binding properties, using p-[3H]aminoclonidine and/or [3H]clonidine, maintained the pharmacological profile of the native alpha2-adrenergic receptor. The potency order of various alpha2-agonists and alpha2-antagonists as well as their stereoselectivity were identical to those of the native alpha2-receptor. Specific receptor binding decreases in the presence of the guanyl nucleotides GTP or guanosine 5'-[beta, gamma-imido]-triphosphate but not ATP, thus indicating a co-solubilization of GTP regulatory components (stimulatory protein Ns or inhibitory protein Ni or both). Adenylate cyclase activity of the reconstituted preparation is stimulated threefold by sodium fluoride, suggesting the presence of both Ns-protein and the catalytic unit (C) in the reconstituted protein(s).

Peroxidase secretion from rat lacrimal gland cells in vitro. I. Alpha-adrenergic stimulation in the absence of alpha-adrenoceptors

The identification of alpha-adrenergic receptors and subdivision into alpha 1- or alpha 2-subtypes were studied by measuring the specific binding of the radioligands [3H]-prazosin as well as [3H]-clonidine to membranes prepared from homogenized rat lacrimal glands. The absence of high-affinity binding for [3H]-prazosin as well as for [3H]-clonidine indicates that rat lacrimal glands do not possess a substantial amount of alpha 1- and alpha 2-adrenoceptors. The binding data correspond with the characterization by pharmacological means. Monolayers of lacrimocytes were incubated with various selective alpha 1-, alpha 2-, beta-adrenergic agonists and antagonists or other substances, and peroxidase discharge was measured over a period of 1 hr. Among various substances only L-norepinephrine, L-phenylephrine, tyramine and ionophore A 23187 were stimulants of peroxidase secretion, whereas the adrenergic-stimulated secretory response was only suppressed by phentolamine.

Subclasses of muscarinic receptors in isolated gastric mucosal cells: receptor characterization and parietal cell function

Muscarinic receptors were characterized in isolated intact chief and parietal cell enriched cell populations from canine and guinea-pig gastric mucosa by binding of tritiated N-methylscopolamine ([3H]NMS). Antagonist and agonist binding was studied by displacement of [3H]NMS with non-radioactive atropine, pirenzepine, pilocarpine and carbachol. Model analysis points to the existence of two binding sites in each of the two cell populations. The number of binding sites per cell was 1.7-1.8 times higher in parietal than in chief cell populations. Subclasses of muscarinic receptors as characterized by pirenzepine binding were compatible with the suggested A- and C- (high and low affinity) binding sites. The observation that in canine cells GMPPNP induced a conformational change of the high affinity binding site for pirenzepine could suggest that their proportion might depend on environmental factors. Binding parameters were related to specific parietal cell function as measured by aminopyrine accumulation as index for acid secretion. The carbachol effects depended on the calcium concentration and were competitively inhibited by pirenzepine. The physiological relevance of muscarinic receptor heterogeneity in gastric mucosal cells is unknown although the data support the hypothesis that involvement of muscarinic binding sites in calcium transport mechanisms connected with parietal cell function and possible conformational changes of the binding sites might be regulatory parameters in gastric secretory processes.

Regulation of muscarinic agonist binding by cations and guanine nucleotides

EDTA treatment of membrane preparations from rat brain and myocardium reduced the relative proportion of superhigh and high affinity binding sites for muscarinic agonists by up to 60%. This effect was partially or completely reversed by millimolar concentrations of Mg2+ or Mn2+. A number of multivalent metal cations gave qualitatively similar effects, yielding stimulation of agonist binding at low concentrations but inhibition at higher concentrations. The divalent cation-linked subpopulation of muscarinic agonist binding sites identified in this study appears to be the primary target for guanine nucleotide inhibition.

Specific binding of [3H]rauwolscine to alpha 2-adrenoceptors in rat cerebral cortex: comparison between crude and synaptosomal plasma membranes

[3H]Rauwolscine, a specific, potent, radiolabelled alpha 2-antagonist, binds to distinct high- and low-affinity alpha 2-adrenoceptors in crude membrane preparations of the rat cerebral cortex. The concentration of high-affinity alpha 2-adrenoceptors was increased by addition of sodium ions or guanylnucleotides. In synaptosomal plasma membrane preparations, only the low-affinity component was found. Neither sodium or guanylnucleotides caused any increase in the concentration of these low-affinity receptors for [3H]rauwolscine.

Radiation inactivation of alpha 1-adrenoceptors

Radiation inactivation of alpha 1-adrenoceptors in rat cerebral cortex membranes has been performed with 10 MeV electrons from a linear accelerator at temperatures less than or equal to -100 degrees C. Alpha 1-adrenoceptor inactivation was monitored with [ 3H ]-prazosin and [( 125I ]-2-(beta-4-hydroxylphenyl)ethylaminomethyl)tetralone [( 125I ]-HEAT). Saturation analysis of irradiated membranes with both ligands indicated that a decrease in alpha-adrenoceptor density occurred with increasing radiation dose. The dissociation constants of [ 3H ]-prazosin and [ 125I ]-HEAT were not markedly changed by the irradiation. Application of the target volume theory gave molecular weights of 91,500 +/- 1,700 (S.D.) (D37: 19,6 +/- 0.36 Mrad) with [ 125I ]-HEAT as ligand, and 77,000 +/- 18,000 (S.D.) (D37: 23.3 +/- 4.6 Mrad) with [ 3H ]-prazosin, respectively, when an empirical temperature correction factor of 2.8 was used. [ 3H ]-flunitrazepam-labelled benzodiazepine receptor target size was used as an internal control. The molecular weight of the alpha 1-adrenoceptors, corrected for this internal control, was 85,000 +/- 1.600 [( 125I ]-HEAT) and 71,500 +/- 17,000 [( 3H ]-prazosin).

Modulation of brain S2 serotonin receptors by lithium, sodium and potassium chloride

The effect of LiCl, NaCl, and KCl on serotonin competition for 3H-ketanserin binding to S2 serotonin receptors in homogenates of rat prefrontal cortex were investigated. LiCl was the most potent of the ionic modulators in lowering the apparent affinity of serotonin for the S2 serotonin receptor. A threshold effect was noted at 12 mM LiCl (a 60% change in IC50); at 120 mM LiCl a nine-fold shift in the serotonin IC50 was noted. 120 mM NaCl or KCl demonstrated similar effects as 12 mM LiCl in reducing serotonin's apparent affinity. These results indicated that monovalent cations modulate S2 serotonin receptor affinity for serotonin and that lithium ion is more potent than sodium or potassium.

Characteristics of the [3H]-yohimbine binding on rat brain alpha2-adrenoceptors

The labelling of rat cerebral cortex alpha 2-adrenoceptors with [3H]-yohimbine ([3H]-YOH) was investigated. At 25 degrees C, binding equilibrium was reached in about 10 min and dissociation occurred with a half time of about 1 min. Saturation experiments gave an equilibrium KD value of 10.13 +/- 1.95 nM and a maximum number of sites of 254 +/- 22 fmol/mg protein. The [3H]-YOH binding sites exhibited alpha 2-adrenergic receptor specificity; the order of potency for the antagonists was rauwolscine greater than yohimbine much greater than prazosin greater than corynanthine. For the agonists, the order was: oxymetazoline greater than clonidine greater than (-)-adrenaline greater than (-)-noradrenaline much greater than (-)-phenylephrine. Agonists exhibited shallow curves in inhibiting [3H]-YOH binding, with pseudo-Hill coefficients (nH) of less than 1.0. These curves were shifted to lower overall affinity and steepened in the presence of 100 microM GTP. Antagonist competition curves were also shallow but GTP had no significant effect. Divalent cations at millimolar concentrations decreased the [3H]-YOH binding: IC50 values were about 6.0, 6.8 and 0.3 mM for Ca2+, Mg2+ and Mn2+ respectively. The maximal number of [3H]-YOH binding sites in the cortex was close to that labelled by the agonist [3H]-paraaminoclonidine ([3H]-PAC). The regional distribution of these sites in the brain, examined at a single concentration of [3H]-YOH and [3H]-PAC, showed a similar pattern except in the striatum. Taken together, the results indicate that like [3H]-PAC, [3H]-YOH labels alpha 2-adrenoceptors in rat brain cortex. They also show that [3H]-YOH is a useful tool for the study of the high and low affinity sites.

[125I] N6-p-Hydroxyphenylisopropyladenosine, a new ligand for Ri adenosine receptors

N6-p-Hydroxyphenylisopropyladenosine (HPIA) has been labelled with carrier-free Na[125I] to very high specific activity (2,175 Ci/mmol) and used as an agonist ligand to characterize Ri adenosine receptors in rat cerebral cortex membranes. The binding is saturable, reversible, stereospecific and dependent on protein concentration. The specific binding at 37 degrees C was of high affinity with an equilibrium dissociation constant KD of 0.48 nmol/l and was saturable with 0.23 pmol of [125I]HPIA per mg of protein. The rate constant of association, k1, was 3.25 x 10(8) l mol-1 min-1 and that of dissociation, k2 0.0110 min-1 yielding at t1/2 of 63 min. In competition experiments the (-)isomer of N6-phenylisopropyladenosine (PIA) was 16-fold more potent than the (+)isomer in competing for binding sites. Specific binding was most effectively displaced by N6-cyclohexyladenosine (CHA, ki=0.26 nmol/l), (-)PIA (ki= 0.33 nmol/l) and HPIA (ki=0.52 nmol/l), whereas 5'-N-ethylcarboxamidoadenosine (NECA, ki=1.42 nmol/l) was less effective. The methylxanthines 3-isobutyl-1-methylxanthine (IBMX), theophylline and caffeine which have been classified as adenosine antagonists had ki values between 5-43 mumol/l. Binding of [125I]HPIA was regulated by guanine nucleotides and divalent cations. The results indicate that [125I]HPIA labels Ri adenosine receptors in rat brain membranes.

[125I]-HEAT:fifty percent of the ligand can bind to the alpha1-adrenoceptors with extremely high affinity

[125]-HEAT, 125iodo-2-[Beta-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-ethyl-aminomethyl]tetralone, is a novel alpha1-adrenoceptor ligand which labels alpha1-adrenoceptors in peripheral tissues as well as in the central nervous system. Using the technique of ligand saturation by receptors, we find that only 50% of the 125I-labeled HEAT molecules bind with high affinity to receptors from a variety of tissues. This was observed with partially purified rat brain membranes and highly purified rat liver plasma membranes in the absence or presence of sodium ion (as NaCl, 150 mM) which stimulated 125I-HEAT binding, by increasing the affinity. If the bindability of [125I]-HEAT is taken into account, KD values as low as 7-8 pM (at 30 degrees C) are found in equilibrium binding experiments and optimally stimulating concentrations of sodium ion. The limited high affinity binding of [125I]-HEAT could not be explained by radiochemical impurities. Instead, we suggest that only one enantiomer of the racemic ligand is preferentially bound to the receptors with a KD in the picomolar range. Since the enantiomers are in dynamic equilibrium in solution (via keto-enol tautomerism) [125-I]-HEAT is a unique radioligand which makes it unlikely that the respective isomers can be separated by successive depletion with receptors.

Sodium ion modulates D2 receptor characteristics of dopamine agonist and antagonist binding sites in striatum and retina

Sodium ion (Na(+)) influences binding of both dopamine agonists and antagonists to D(2) receptors in striatum and retina. Also, Na(+) markedly potentiates the loss of high-affinity agonist binding due to the GTP analogue p[NH]ppG. 2-Amino-6, 7-dihydroxy-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro[5,8-(3)H]naphthalene ([(3)H]ADTN) binds exclusively to an agonist conformation of D(2) receptor in both striatum and retina, distinct from the antagonist conformation labeled by [(3)H]spiroperidol or [(3)H]domperidone in striatum or by [(3)H]spiroperidol in retina. Na(+) is not required for interaction of [(3)H]ADTN or antagonist radioligand sites with the selective D(2) agonist LY-141865, the D(2) antagonist domperidone, or nonselective dopamine agonists or antagonists; however, Na(+) is necessary for high affinity interaction of those radioligand sites with the D(2) antagonists molindone and metoclopramide. With Na(+) present, striatal sites for [(3)H]ADTN, [(3)H]spiroperidol, and [(3)H]domperidone have similar affinities for antagonists but only [(3)H]ADTN sites have high affinity for agonists. Na(+) further decreases the low affinity of dopamine agonists for [(3)H]spiroperidol binding sites. Also, Na(+) enhances [(3)H]spiroperidol and decreases [(3)H]ADTN binding. Na(+) alone causes bound [(3)H]ADTN to dissociate from at least 30% of striatal and 50% of retinal sites, and with Na(+) present [(3)H]ADTN rapidly dissociates from the remaining sites upon addition of p[NH]ppG. It is proposed that D(2) receptors in striatum and retina exist in distinct but interconvertible conformational states, with different properties depending on the presence or absence of Na(+) and of guanine nucleotide.

Binding characteristics of [3H]guanfacine to rat brain alpha-adrenoceptors. Comparison with [3H]clonidine

The tritium-labeled alpha-adrenoceptor agonist and antihypertensive drug guanfacine, N-amidino-2-(2,6-dichlorophenyl)-acetamide (sp. act. 24.2 Ci/mmole) was employed for a direct identification and characterization of alpha-adrenoceptors in rat brain membranes. Its usefulness as a radioligand was studied in comparison with [3H]clonidine (sp. act. 26.7 Ci/mmole). The nonspecific binding of [3H]guanfacine to rat cerebral membranes was considerably more pronounced than that observed for [3H]clonidine. The specific binding of [3H]guanfacine (0.1 - 20 nM) and [3H]clonidine (0.1 - 20 nM) as defined as the excess over blanks containing (-)-norepinephrine (10 microM) was saturable. Scatchard analyses of these binding data indicated single populations of binding sites for both ligands. KC values of 3.9 ([3H]guanfacine) and 3.7 nM ([3H]clonidine) were calculated. Maximal number of specific binding sites amounted to 220 and 195 fmole/mg protein for [3H]guanfacine and [3H]guanfacine and [3H]clonidine, respectively. In case unlabeled guanfacine (1 microM) was used to characterize the specific bonding of [3H] guanfacine, KD value and maximal number of binding sites were about twice as high as determined in the presence of excess (-)-norepinephrine. The rate of association of both radioligands was rapid. Binding reached equilibrium by about 10-15 min of incubation. Half-maximal binding was attained at approximately 1-2 min. The rates of dissociation were biphasic. A rapid and a slow component were identified. The specific binding sites of [3H] guanfacine in rat brain possess the general characteristics of alpha 2-adrenoceptors. Selective antagonists of alpha 2-adrenoceptors, like yohimbine and rauwolscine strongly interfered with this binding. However, preferential blocking agents of alpha 1-adrenoceptors, such as prazosin and corynanthine, were weak competitors. The relative potency of agonists and antagonists in displacing [3H]guanfacine was identical to their effectiveness in competing for [3H]clonidine specific binding sites. It is concluded that [3H]guanfacine labels the same alpha 2-adrenoceptor population in rat brain as [3H]clonidine. However, [3H]guanfacine seems not as suitable as [3H]clonidine for routine use in the direct identification of alpha 2-adrenoceptors in view of its relatively high nonspecific binding.

Effect of high and low sodium intake on norepinephrine turnover in the cardiovascular tissues and brain stem of the rabbit

To assess the relationship between sympathetic nerve function and sodium intake, we examined norepinephrine (NE) turnover in several cardiovascular tissues and the brain stem of rabbits maintained for 3 weeks on high (86 mEQ), normal (14 mEQ), and low (0.2 mEQ/day) sodium diet. None of the diets changed the blood pressure significantly. Plasma renin activity became high in the low sodium group and low in the high sodium group at the end of the treatment. NE turnover was measured from the rate of decline of tissue NE concentration after administration of alpha-methyl-p-tyrosine. Variation of sodium intake exerted opposite effects on NE turnover in the periphery and in the central nervous system; increasing sodium intake caused an increase in NE turnover in the thoracic aorta, mesenteric vein, and left ventricle, and a decrease in the hypothalamus, midbrain, and pons medulla. But in the mesenteric vein, and left ventricle, and a decrease in the hypothalamus, midbrain, and pons medulla. But in the mesenteric artery and abdominal aorta it was not affected by dietary sodium manipulation. The results show the varying influence of sodium balance on the central and peripheral noradrenergic neuron activity.

Evidence for more than one type of post-junctional alpha-adrenoceptor

The concept of two types of alpha-adrenoceptor, alpha 1 located on smooth muscle and mediating contraction and alpha 2 located on nerve terminals and mediating inhibition of transmitter release, has broken down. In vivo it has been shown that post-junctional receptors, with characteristics closely related to those of the alpha 2-adrenoceptors at nerve terminals, can mediate pressor responses and are, "post-junctional alpha 2-adrenoceptors". Several differences among agonists in vitro have superficial similarities to the in vivo alpha 1/alpha 2 system but do not correspond precisely and seem to point to a subdivision of post-junctional alpha 1-adrenoceptors. A preliminary hypothesis is: in vivo alpha 1 is rapid in onset, short-lived, utilises internal Ca2+, prefers alkalosis and responds to short-term stimuli such as short bursts of nerve impulses or bolus injections of catecholamines; alpha 2 is slower in onset, longer-lived, utilises external Ca2+, prefers acidosis and responds to more prolonged stimuli such as circulating catecholamines; in vitro these categories of response occur but antagonists fail to define an alpha 1/alpha 2 split, suggesting that some critical factor is missing in vitro. The implications of these trends in alpha-adrenoceptor classification are discussed in relation to current pharmacological and biochemical methods for receptor typing, to the possible physiological actions and roles of such receptors and to structure/activity relationships among agonists and antagonists.

[3H]-guanfacine: a radioligand that selectively labels high affinity alpha2-adrenoceptor sites in homogenates of rat brain

[3H]-guanfacine (N-amidino-2-(2,6-dichloro 3[3H] phenyl) acetamide hydrochloride; 24.2 Ci/mmol) has been used as a radioligand in homogenates of rat cerebral cortex. Specific binding of [3H]-guanfacine was linear with respect to tissue concentration (2.5-15 mg/ml), saturable and not markedly affected in the pH range 6.5-8.0. Analysis of the saturation of [3H]-guanfacine binding using an iterative least squares fitting procedure gave best fits to a single site model. [3H]-guanfacine binding was of high affinity (Kd 1.77 +/- 0.24 nM; n = 8) to a population of non interacting sites (nH 0.99 +/- 0.02; n = 8) with a density of 118.2 +/- 8.4 fmol/mg protein (n = 8). Highest levels of binding were achieved in cerebral cortex followed by thalamus greater than hypothalamus greater than medulla/pons greater than spinal cord greater than striatum greater than cerebellum. Binding was stereoselective with regard to the (-)-isomer of noradrenaline and the order of potency for displacement of [3H]-guanfacine by agonists was naphazoline greater than clonidine greater than (-)-adrenaline greater than (-)-alpha methylnoradrenaline greater than (-)-noradrenaline greater than (+/-)-alpha-methylnoradrenaline greater than (+)-noradrenaline greater than methoxamine greater than (+)-adrenaline greater than phenylephrine and by antagonists was phentolamine greater than dihydroergocryptine greater than piperoxane greater than yohimbine greater than prazosin greater than labetalol greater than indoramin suggested binding to alpha 2-adrenoceptors. The monovalent cations Na+ and K+ and also guanosine 5'-triphosphate (GTP) produced concentration-dependent inhibition whereas the divalent cations Ca2+, Mg2+, and Mn2+ first enhanced, then inhibited [3H]-guanfacine binding. Na+ (150 mM) or GTP (100 microM) produced marked reductions and Mn2+ (5 mM) marked increases in the number of receptor sites labelled by [3H]-guanfacine. 9 It is concluded that [3H]-guanfacine preferentially labels a high affinity state of the alpha 2- adrenoceptor in homogenates of rat cerebral cortex.

[3H]rauwolscine (alpha-yohimbine): a specific antagonist radioligand for brain alpha 2-adrenergic receptors

[3H]Rauwolscine, a specific and potent alpha 2-antagonist radioligand, was used to characterize alpha 2-receptor binding in bovine cerebral cortex. [3H]Rauwolscine binding was reversible, stereospecific, and saturable. Association, dissociation, and saturation studies revealed one site interactions (k -1/k+1 = 1.2 nM, KD = 2.5 nM, Bmax = 160 fmol/mg protein) and competition studies indicated that [3H]rauwolscine labeled the alpha 2-receptor. Agonists inhibited [3H]rauwolscine binding in a shallow, GTP-sensitive manner. These results suggest that [3H]rauwolscine specifically labels both the high and low affinity states of the alpha 2-receptor in brain membranes.