Effects of histrionicotoxin on the chemosensitive and electrical properties of skeletal muscle

Bioactive alkaloids from the venom of Dendrobatoidea Cope, 1865: a scoping review

Bioactive compounds derived from secondary metabolism in animals have refined selectivity and potency for certain biological targets. The superfamily Dendrobatoidea is adapted to the dietary sequestration and secretion of toxic alkaloids, which play a role in several biological activities, and thus serve as a potential source for pharmacological and biotechnological applications. This article constitutes a scoping review to understand the trends in experimental research involving bioactive alkaloids derived from Dendrobatoidea based upon scientometric approaches. Forty-eight (48) publications were found in 30 journals in the period of 60 years, between 1962 and 2022. More than 23 structural classes of alkaloids were cited, with 27.63% for batrachotoxins, 13.64% for pyridinics, with an emphasis on epibatidine, 16.36% for pumiliotoxins, and 11.82% for histrionicotoxins. These tests included in vivo (54.9%), in vitro (39.4%), and in silico simulations (5.6%). Most compounds (54.8%) were isolated from skin extracts, whereas the remainder were obtained through molecular synthesis. Thirteen main biological activities were identified, including acetylcholinesterase inhibitors (27.59%), sodium channel inhibitors (12.07%), cardiac (12.07%), analgesic (8.62%), and neuromuscular effects (8.62%). The substances were cited as being of natural origin in the "Dendrobatidae" family, genus "Phyllobates," "Dendrobates," and seven species: Epipedobates tricolor, Phyllobates aurotaenia, Oophaga histrionica, Oophaga pumilio, Phyllobates terribilis, Epipedobates anthonyi, and Ameerega flavopicta. To date, only a few biological activities have been experimentally tested; hence, further studies on the bioprospecting of animal compounds and ecological approaches are needed.

Synthetic approaches towards alkaloids bearing α-tertiary amines

Alkaloids account for some of the most beautiful and biologically active natural products. Although they are usually classified along biosynthetic criteria, they can also be categorized according to certain structural motifs. Amongst these, the α-tertiary amine (ATA), i.e. a tetrasubstituted carbon atom surrounded by three carbons and one nitrogen, is particularly interesting. A limited number of methods have been described to access this functional group and fewer still are commonly used in synthesis. Herein, we review some approaches to asymmetrically access ATAs and provide an overview of alkaloid total syntheses where those have been employed.

Use of sulfur fragments for the synthesis of nitrogen heterocycles

This contribution contains a representative sampling from the Padwa laboratory of the conjugate addition of oximes with 2,3-bis(phenylsulfonyl)-1,3-butadiene followed by a subsequent dipolar cycloaddition cascade to produce a variety of alkaloids. The resulting cycloadducts are cleaved reductively to provide azapolycyclic scaffolds with strategically placed functionality for further manipulation of the target compounds.

A gram-scale batch and flow total synthesis of perhydrohistrionicotoxin

The total synthesis of the spiropiperidine alkaloid (-)-perhydrohistrionicotoxin (perhydro-HTX) 2 has been accomplished on a gram scale by employing both conventional batch chemistry as well as microreactor techniques. (S)-(-)-6-Pentyltetrahydro-pyran-2-one 8 underwent nucleophilic ring opening to afford the alcohol 10, which was elaborated to the nitrone 13. Protection of the nitrone as the 1,3-adduct of styrene and side-chain extension to the unsaturated nitrile afforded a precursor 17, which underwent dipolar cycloreversion and 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition to give the core spirocyclic precursor 18 that was converted into perhydro-HTX 2. The principal steps to the spirocycle 18 have successfully been transferred into flow mode by using different types of microreactors and in a telescoped fashion, allowing for a more rapid access to the histrionicotoxins and their analogues by continuous processing.

Thirty-five years of synthetic studies directed towards the histrionicotoxin family of alkaloids

This article brings together for the first time reviews of all the synthetic attempts towards the spirocyclic histrionicotoxin alkaloids published since the discovery of the group in 1971. This covers 5 total syntheses of the fully unsaturated parent alkaloid HTX-283A, 7 total syntheses of perhydrohistrionicotoxin, 15 total syntheses of other members of this alkaloid family, 25 formal syntheses, and 19 partial syntheses involving the successful formation of the core azaspirocyclic structure but lacking advancement towards the target structure.

A Concise Total Synthesis of dl-Histrionicotoxin

The synthesis of (+/-)-histrionicotoxin has been achieved in just nine steps using a two-directional synthesis strategy. Key reactions include a two-directional cross-metathesis, a tandem oxime formation/Michael addition/1,4-prototopic shift/[3 + 2]-cycloaddition cascade, a selective Z,Z-bisenyne formation, and a one-pot N-O and bischloroacetylene reduction.

Mechanism of neuromuscular blockade induced by phenthonium, a quaternary derivative of (-)-hyoscyamine, in skeletal muscles

1. The mechanisms underlying the postjunctional blockade induced by phenthonium [N-(4-phenyl) phenacyl 1-hyoscyamine] were investigated in mammalian and amphibian muscles. This muscarinic antagonist was previously shown to enhance specifically the spontaneous acetylcholine (ACh) release at concentrations that blocked neuromuscular transmission. 2. In both rat diaphragm and frog sartorius muscles, phenthonium (Phen, 1-100 microM) depressed the muscle twitches elicited by nerve stimulation (IC50: 23 microM and 5 microM, respectively), and blocked the nerve-evoked muscle action potential. The neuromuscular blockade was not reversed after incubation with neostigmine. 3. Equal concentrations of Phen decreased the rate of rise and prolonged the falling phase of the directly elicited action potential in frog sartorius muscle fibres, indicating that the drug also affects the sodium and potassium conductance. 4. Phen (50 and 100 microM) protected the ACh receptor against alpha-bungarotoxin (BUTX) blockade in the mouse diaphragm allowing recording of endplate potentials and action potentials after 5 h wash with physiological salt solution. 5. Phen (10-100 microM) produced a concentration- and voltage-dependent decrease of the endplate current (e.p.c.), and induced nonlinearity of the current-voltage relationship. At high concentrations Phen also shortened the decay time constant of e.p.c (tau(e.p.c.)) and reduced its voltage sensitivity. 6. At the same range of concentrations, Phen also reduced the initial rate of [125I]-BUTX binding to junctional ACh receptors of the rat diaphragm (apparent dissociation constant = 24 microM), the relationship between the degree of inhibition and antagonist concentration being that expected for a competitive mechanism. 7. It is concluded that Phen affects the electrical excitability of the muscle fibre membrane, and blocks neuromuscular transmission through a mechanism that affects the agonist binding to its recognition site and ionic channel conductance of the nicotinic ACh receptor.

Detection of nicotinic receptor ligands with a light addressable potentiometric sensor

The nicotinic acetylcholine receptor, purified from Torpedo electric organ, was coupled to a light addressable potentiometric sensor (LAPS) to form a LAPS-receptor biosensor. Receptor-ligand complexes containing biotin and urease were captured on a biotinylated nitrocellulose membrane via a streptavidin bridge and detected with a silicon-based sensor. Competition between biotinylated alpha-bungarotoxin and nonbiotinylated ligands formed the basis of this assay. This biosensor detected both agonists (acetylcholine, carbamylcholine, succinylcholine, suberyldicholine, and nicotine) and competitive antagonists (d-tubocurarine, alpha-bungarotoxin, and alpha-Naja toxin) of the receptor with affinities comparable to those obtained using radioactive ligand binding assays. Consistent with agonist-induced desensitization of the receptor, the LAPS-receptor biosensor reported a time-dependent increase in affinity for the agonist carbamylcholine as expected, but not for the antagonists.

Decahydroquinoline alkaloids: noncompetitive blockers for nicotinic acetylcholine receptor-channels in pheochromocytoma cells and Torpedo electroplax

In pheochromocytoma PC12 cells, (+)-cis-decahydroquinoline 195A (5-methyl-2-propyl-cis-decahydroquinoline) and (+)-perhydro-cis-decahydroquinoline 219A (2,5-dipropyl-cis-decahydroquinoline) inhibit carbamylcholine-elicited sodium flux with IC50 values of 1.0 and 1.5 microM, respectively. Both of these decahydroquinolines appear to enhance desensitization, although apparent lack of complete removal of (+)-perhydro-cis-219A by washing complicates interpretation of the effects of that agent. A series of cis- and trans-decahydroquinolines with substituents in the 2- and 5-position also exhibit structure-dependent inhibition of carbamylcholine-elicited sodium flux in PC12 cells and all of the decahydroquinolines inhibit binding of the noncompetitive blocking agent [3H]perhydrohistrionicotoxin to muscle-type nicotinic acetylcholine receptor-channels in membranes from Torpedo electroplax. The Ki values in electroplax membranes range from 1.4 to 7.9 microM, making these alkaloids comparable in potencies to the histrionicotoxins. Potencies are increased 2- to 3-fold in the presence of an agonist, carbamylcholine. The profile of activities are similar in PC12 cells and electroplax membranes. The cis- and trans-decahydroquinolines represent another class of noncompetitive blockers for acetylcholine receptor-channels with similar activity for both muscle-type and ganglionic type nicotinic receptors.

Effects of memantine on the twitch tension of mouse diaphragm

The effects of memantine (50-175 microM) on the post-tetanic potentiation of the twitch tension were studied on the isolated mouse nerve diaphragm preparation. Memantine completely abolished the twitch tension elicited indirectly while it had no effect on the directly elicited twitch tension. Memantine also decreased the post-tetanic potentiation of amplitude of endplate potential and twitch tension. The duration of tetanic stimulation that induced a maximal decrease of twitch tension was 10-20 s. It is suggested that the effect of memantine on post-tetanic potentiation may be due to its voltage- and time-dependent effect on the ion channel-acetylcholine receptor complex.

An isotopic rubidium ion efflux assay for the functional characterization of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors on clonal cell lines

An isotopic rubidium ion efflux assay has been developed for the functional characterization of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors on cultured neurons. This assay first involves the intracellular sequestration of isotopic potassium ion analog by the ouabain-sensitive action of a sodium-potassium ATPase. Subsequently, the release of isotopic rubidium ion through nicotinic acetylcholine receptor-coupled monovalent cation channels is activated by application of nicotinic agonists. Specificity of receptor-mediated efflux is demonstrated by its sensitivity to blockade by nicotinic, but not muscarinic, antagonists. The time course of agonist-mediated efflux, within the temporal limitations of the assay, indicates a slow inactivation of receptor function on prolonged exposure to agonist. Dose-response profiles (i) have characteristic shapes for different nicotinic agonists, (ii) are described by three operationally defined parameters, and (iii) reflect different affinities of agonists for binding sites that control receptor activation and functional inhibition. The rubidium ion efflux assay provides fewer hazards but greater sensitivity and resolution than isotopic sodium or rubidium ion influx assays for functional nicotinic receptors.

Interactions of piperidine derivatives with the nicotinic cholinergic receptor complex from Torpedo electric organ

The interactions of eight piperidine derivatives with nicotinic receptor complexes from Torpedo californica electric organ were studied using [125I] alpha-bungarotoxin [( 125I]BGT) as a probe for the acetylcholine binding site and [3H]perhydrohistrionicotoxin [( 3H]H12-HTX) as a probe for a site associated with the receptor-gated ion channel. Cis- and trans-2-methyl-6-n-undecanyl piperidines (MUP), major constituents of fire ant venom, had a high-affinity for [3H]H12-HTX binding sites (Ki = 0.08-0.24 microM), but had no affect on receptor binding. MUP affinity for [3H]H12-HTX binding sites was approximately doubled in the presence of 1 microM carbamylcholine. Introduction of a 2'-hydroxyl group to the undecanyl side channel had little effect on activity of the alkaloid. The analog 2,6- (but not 3,5-) dimethylpiperidine was a moderately active inhibitor of [3H]H12-HTX binding (Ki = 8.8 microM). 2-Methylpiperidine was considerably less active (Ki = 600 microM), although it was more potent than either 3- or 4-methylpiperidine. The affinities of 2,6-dimethylpiperidine and 2-methylpiperidine for [3H]H12-HTX binding sites were decreased in the presence of 1 microM carbamylcholine. Carbamylcholine affinity for the receptor was increased by up to 7 fold in the presence of 10 and 32 microM MUP, but was decreased in the presence of 2,6-dimethylpiperidine and 2-methylpiperidine. The cis- and trans-isomers of MUP were equipotent in producing each of its effects. In these actions, MUP resembles a variety of other compounds derived from 2,6-disubstituted piperidines, including histrionicotoxins, gephyrotoxins and pumiliotoxins.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

The rat brain phencyclidine (PCP) receptor. A putative K+ channel

Receptor binding studies were carried out to test whether the rat brain phencyclidine (PCP) receptor is part of a K+ channel. [3H]PCP, and two analogs, [3H]TCP and m-amino[3H]PCP, labeled a single receptor on rat brain synaptic membranes. Each compound bound to a similar number of sites (Bmax = 2.7 pmol bound/mg protein); the apparent dissociation constants for these compounds (KD less than 0.3 microM) decreased with increasing temperature. The following observations indicate that the PCP receptor is part of a K+ channel: (1) aminopyridines (AP) and tetraalkylammonium ions blocked [3H]PCP binding; their respective orders of potency, 4-AP = 3,4-diAP much greater than 3-AP, and tetrabutylammonium (TBA) greater than tetraethylammonium much greater than tetramethylammonium, paralleled their abilities to block K+ channels, (2) the order of potency of PCP and its analogs for binding to the PCP receptor, TCP greater than PCE greater than m-amino-PCP greater than PCP greater than PCPY greater than m-nitro-PCP, paralleled their rank order for blocking brain K+ channels, and (3) the stereospecific displacement of [3H]PCP binding by the isomers of the "sigma" ligands, (+)N-allyl-normetazocine (NANM) greater than (-)NANM, and (-)cyclazocine greater than (+)cyclazocine, and of the dioxolanes, dexoxadrol much greater than levoxadrol, paralleled their abilities to block brain K+ channels. Reciprocal plot and Schild plot analyses indicated that TBA, (+)NANM and dexoxadrol were competitive inhibitors at the PCP receptor, whereas 4-AP had an allosteric interaction.

Macromolecular sites for specific neurotoxins and drugs on chemosensitive synapses and electrical excitation in biological membranes

The present review deals with the molecular mechanisms and elementary phenomena underlying the activation of the voltage- and chemo-sensitive membrane macromolecules: sodium- and potassium-ion channels and nicotinic ACh receptors and their associated ion channel. To achieve an understanding of their various kinetics and conformational states, a number of novel alkaloids, BTX, HTXs, gephyrotoxins, and certain psychotomimetic drugs such as phencyclidine, and many other pharmacologically active agents have been used. Biochemical assays and various electrophysiological techniques have been used in a number of biological preparations--e.g., Torpedo membranes, brain synaptosomes, amphibian and mammalian neuromuscular preparations--to describe the action of such agents. The availability of BTX and scorpion toxins together with aconitine and veratridine as activators and TTX and STX as antagonists of the voltage-sensitive sodium channels, made possible the identification and the physiological and pharmacological characterization of these channels. These studies provided the basis for understanding the mechanisms underlying electrical excitability and culminated, more recently, in the purification and reconstitution of sodium channels from rat brain and in the successful cloning of these channels with the elucidation of their primary structure. We now know that the sodium channel has a molecular mass of 316,000 daltons, consists of five subunits, and has multiple sites for various ligands. In contrast to sodium channels, various classes of potassium channels (inward and outward rectifier potassium channels and Ca(2+)-activated potassium channels) have been described. Unlike the sodium channels, there are no known specific activators for potassium channels. However, a number of potassium channel blockers such as 4-aminopyridine, HTX, histamine, and norepinephrine have been identified which complement the varying types of potassium channels in different neurons. One class of potassium channel blockers with profound medical and social implications comprises PCP and its analogues. The blockade of the potassium-induced 86Rb+ efflux from brain cells, the resulting prolongation of muscle and nerve action potentials, and the increase in transmitter release observed with PCP and some analogues are all highly suggestive of a role for the potassium channel in the behavioral effects of these drugs and its potential involvement in schizophrenia. A number of toxic principles of both plant and animal origin played a significant role in the development of our knowledge about the nAChR.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)

Effects of histrionicotoxin derivatives on ion channels and acetylcholine receptor-channel complexes in bullfrog sympathetic ganglia

1. Four synthetic histrionicotoxin derivatives (H8-, H12-, C4H10- and C5H10-HTX) were applied to bullfrog (Rana catesbeiana) sympathetic ganglia and their effects were compared electrophysiologically. 2. The derivatives (60-100 microM) blocked both acetylcholine receptor-channel complex (ACh RC complex) and Na+ channel to cause a transmission failure. They also blocked K+ and Ca2+ channels. 3. Although all 4 derivatives exhibited similar effects, their potencies on respective ionic channels differed from one another. 4. Two types of (presumably subsynaptic and extrasynaptic) ACh RC complexes in ganglion cells were distinguished based on their differential sensitivities to HTX derivatives.

Histrionicotoxins: effects on binding of radioligands for sodium, potassium, and calcium channels in brain membranes

A series of eight histrionicotoxins and two synthetic analogs inhibit binding of [3H]batrachotoxinin B to sites on voltage dependent sodium channels in brain membranes. Perhydrohistrionicotoxin (IC50 0.33 microM) and octahydrohistrionicotoxin (IC50 1.2 microM) are comparable in activities to potent local anesthetics. Histrionicotoxin (IC50 17 microM) and the other histrionicotoxins are much less potent. The histrionicotoxins also inhibit binding of [3H]phencyclidine to putative potassium channels in brain membranes. Histrionicotoxin (IC50 15 microM) and the other histrionicotoxins are much more potent than perhydrohistrionicotoxin (IC50 200 microM), but are at least 200-fold less potent than phencyclidine. The histrionicotoxins enhance binding of [3H]nitrendipine to sites on calcium channels in brain membranes, with the exception of perhydrohistrionicotoxin, which inhibits binding. Structure activity relationships at these channel sites and at the sites for noncompetitive blockers on the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor channel (AChR) complex differ. The histrionicotoxins are more potent at the sites on the AChR complex than at sites on other channels with the exception of perhydrohistrionicotoxin, which has comparable potency at the AChR complex and sodium channels.

Binding of [3H]perhydrohistrionicotoxin and [3H]phencyclidine to the nicotinic receptor-ion channel complex of Torpedo electroplax. Inhibition by histrionicotoxins and derivatives

Histrionicotoxin, a spiropiperidine alkaloid, and twenty-two analogs inhibited binding of [3H]perhydrohistrionicotoxin [( 3H]H12-HTX) and of [3H]phencyclidine [( 3H]PCP) to sites on the acetylcholine receptor-ion complex of Torpedo electroplax membranes. Structural alterations to the nitrogen (secondary amine) or oxygen (alcohol) functions or to the five carbon and four carbon side chain of histrionicotoxin altered the potency versus [3H]H12-HTX and [3H]PCP binding measured in the presence or absence of a receptor agonist, carbamylcholine. Histrionicotoxin itself was 3-fold more potent versus [3H]PCP binding than versus [3H]H12-HTX binding. N-Methylation or O-acetylation increased this difference, while alterations to the side chains either slightly decreased or markedly increased this difference. Histrionicotoxin was some 3.5-fold more potent versus [3H]H12-HTX binding in the presence of carbamylcholine than in its absence. O-Acetylation increased this selectivity for the carbamylcholine-activated state of the receptor channel complex, while alterations in the side chains either reduced or increased the selectivity. Histrionicotoxin was some 2.2-fold more potent versus [3H]PCP binding in the presence of carbamylcholine than in its absence. N-Methylation of O-acetyl-histrionicotoxin greatly increased this selectivity, while alterations in the side chains either reduced or had no effect on selectivity.

Timbós: ichthyotoxic plants used by Brazilian Indians

The pharmacology of serjanosides, active principles isolated from the fish-poison plant Serjania lethalis St. Hil, a Sapindaceae, was investigated by comparing their actions in fishes and mammals with those of rotenone and certain saponins. The ichthyocid activity of the serjanosides was 2.5 times greater than that of the crude plant extract, approximately 10 times lower than the activity of rotenone, but from 10 to 50 times greater than the activity of the other saponins. When injected in mammals, the serjanosides induced deep prostration, dyspnea, cyanosis, ectopic heart beats, cardiovascular failure and respiratory arrest. These effects, leading to death that was not prevented by artificial respiration, indicated several mechanisms for the toxic action of the serjanosides. In vitro studies with these substances have shown that membrane depolarization and muscle contracture were probably due to unspecific surface actions. Rotenone, under the same experimental conditions induced hypotension, bradycardia and respiratory arrest. Death was prevented by artificial respiration. Ectopic foci, membrane depolarization, contractures and neuromuscular block were not observed after rotenone. Apparently, death from rotenone poisoning was a consequence of respiratory failure of central origin. The serjanosides are rather potent fish poison saponins. Mammals, however, are apparently insensitive to the same specific action since other toxic effects induced by those substances in rats and mice were also observed by employing saponins devoid of fish-killing activity.

The ionic channel of the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor is unable to differentiate between the optical antipodes of perhydrohistrionicotoxin

The enantiomers of perhydrohistrionicotoxin were studied in their effects on endplate currents recorded at the junctional region of sartorius muscles of Rana pipiens. The two optical antipodes progressively decreased the peak amplitude of the endplate currents and were indistinguishable from each other at all times. The enantiomers shortened equally the time constants for endplate current decay, but did not alter their voltage sensitivities. Although perhydrohistrionicotoxin contains 4 chiral centers, complete steric inversion does not alter its effects on the acetylcholine receptor-ion channel complex. By contrast the recognition site of the AcChR is extremely sensitive to any change in the chirality of agonists.

Effect of histrionicotoxin on ion channels in synaptic and conducting membranes of electroplax of Electrophorus electricus

Histrionicotoxin (HTX) at low concentrations of 5-10 microM blocks the postsynaptic potential of the electroplax of Electrophorus electricus. At 100-fold higher concentrations, HTX blocks the directly evoked action potentials of the conducting membrane. The pH dependence of the blockade by HTX at synaptic channels is different from that at the conducting membrane. At the synapse HTX is more potent at acid pH, while at the conducting membrane it is more potent at basic pH. HTX at high concentrations antagonizes the effects of batrachotoxin, indicative of an effect on the batrachotoxin-sensitive sodium channels involved in action potential generation. While the effects of HTX on the synaptic channels are concentration, time, and pH dependent, the effects on the channels of the conducting membrane are, in addition, use dependent, suggesting interactions of HTX with the activated forms of these channels.

Effects of phencyclidine on cardiac action potential: pH dependence and structure-activity relationships

The effects of phencyclidine [1-(1-phenylcyclohexyl)-piperidine; PCP] on cardiac action potential duration (APD) were compared to those of some of its derivatives, in strips of isolated frog ventricular muscle perfused with normal Ringer solution. We studied compounds with PCP-like behavioral actions (N-ethyl-1-phenyl-cyclohexylamine: PCE; and m-amino-PCP) as well as behaviorally inactive analogs (m-nitro-PCP; the quaternary derivative PCP-methyl iodide; and various fragments of the PCP molecule). Exposure to PCP, 3 microM to 1 mM, produced reversible, dose- and pH-dependent prolongations, of the APD to over 100% above control. The observed effects of the drugs are compatible with a mechanism of blockade of potassium conductance. An intracellular site for this action is suggested by: (i) the inactivity of the quaternary analog; (ii) the marked increase in the potency of the compounds when the external pH is changed in the region of their respective pKa values to increase the concentration of the unionized species; and (iii) the pronounced acceleration of the termination of the PCP effect by washout with a series of buffer solutions with decreasing pH values. The rank order of potency of the compounds in lengthening APD (PCE greater than m-amino PCP greater than PCP much much greater than m-nitro-PCP) is the same as reported from other pharmacological studies of specific PCP actions, and matches the rank of behavioral activity of the drugs.

Biochemical properties of the brain phencyclidine receptor

This paper gives a detailed account of techniques which can be used to measure [3H]phencyclidine binding to its receptor. The main properties of the binding component are the following: (i) It is rapidly heat-inactivated at temperatures over 50 degrees C. (ii) It is destroyed by proteases like trypsin, pronase or papain suggesting that it is of a protein nature. The receptor structure is resistant to chymotrypsin. (iii) A good correlation was found between the pharmacological activity of 30 different analogs as measured by the rotarod assay and the affinity of these different molecules for the phencyclidine receptor. (iv) Monovalent and divalent cations antagonize [3H]phencyclidine binding to its receptor. The dissociation constant is 15 mM, the same for Na+, Li+, K+, cholinium or Tris. Na+ (and other monovalent cations) and phencyclidines bind to distinct sites. The saturation of the Na+ site by Na+ modulates the affinity of phencyclidine for its receptor. Divalent cations antagonize [3H]phencyclidine binding in the absence of Na+. This antagonism is of the non-competitive type. (v) [3H]phencyclidine binding is also antagonized by histrionicotoxin and by local anaesthetics.

The behavioral effects of phencyclidines may be due to their blockade of potassium channels

The action of phencyclidine [1-(1-phenylcyclohexyl)piperidine; PCP] and its behaviorally active analog (m-amino-PCP) and of two behaviorally inactive analogs [m-nitro-PCP and 1-piperidinocyclohexanecarbonitrile (PCC)] were examined in this study. In a test of spatial alternation performance in rats, PCP and m-amino-PCP were much more potent behavior modifiers than were PCC and m-nitro-PCP. We studied the effects of the drugs on the ionic channels of the electrically excitable membrane and of the nicotinic acetylcholine (AcCho) receptors at the neuromuscular junction of frog skeletal muscle. All four compounds blocked the indirectly elicited muscle twitch and depressed the amplitude and rate of rise of directly elicited muscle action potentials. They also caused a voltage- and concentration-dependent decrease in the peak amplitude of the endplate current but did not react with the nicotinic AcCho receptor. These observations indicate that the four compounds have comparable blocking effects on the ionic channels associated with the nicotinic AcCho receptor. In contrast, the behaviorally active agents could be distinguished from behaviorally inactive ones by their effects on K+ conductance. PCP and m-amino-PCP blocked delayed rectification in frog sartorius muscles, prolonged the muscle action potential more than 2-fold, and markedly potentiated the directly elicited muscle twitch. The behaviorally active compound also blocked depolarization-induced 86Rb+ efflux from rat brain synaptosomes (presumably a measure of K+ conductance) and increased quantal content at the frog neuromuscular junction. In these actions, m-nitro-PCP was much less effective, and PCC was relatively ineffective. Because PCP and m-amino-PCP are much more potent behavior modifiers than PCC and m-nitro-PCP, we suggest that the behavioral effects of PCP and m-amino-PCP, may be due to a block of K+ conductance and enhancement of transmitter release at central neurons.

Nonprotein neurotoxins

Nonprotein neurotoxins are continuing to play a major role as molecular probes in studying nervous processes. They also have clinical importance as some of them, such as saxitoxin and its analogues, are the source of public health problems, or have potential use in therapy. This review covers clinical, biological, pharmacological, and chemical aspects of certain nonprotein neurotoxins, with emphasis on three well-known ones: tetrodotoxin, saxitoxin, and batrachotoxin. The distribution of the toxins is discussed as well as their symptomatology, treatment of affected patients, and effects of their structures on their physiological activity. With so many outstanding problems remaining in neuropharmacology, the study of nonprotein neurotoxins thrives as a fertile area of research.

[3H]Phencyclidine: a probe for the ionic channel of the nicotinic receptor

To evaluate [3H]phencyclidine ([3H]PCP)as a probe for the ionic channel of the nicotinic receptor, the characteristics of its binding to electric organ membranes od Torpedo ocellata and its effects on frog sartorius muscle were studied. Similar to PCP, [3H]PCP depressed the peak amplitude of endplate current, caused nonlinearity in the voltage-current relationship at negative potentials, accelerated the decay time of the end-plate current, and shortened the channel lifetime. Thus, [3H]PCP interacted with the ionic channel of the nicotinic receptor, although there were a few differences between its effect and that of PCP. Binding of [3H]PCP to Torpedo membranes was to sites on the ionic channel of acetylcholine (AcCho) receptor because it was saturable, dependent upon protein concentration, and inhibited by drugs that interact with the ionic channel, and the initial rate of binding was potentiated by receptor agonists. Equilibrium binding of [3H]PCP to Torpedo membranes was with two affinities, but in the presence of AcCho, [3H]PCP binding was with a single affinity. The affinities of channel drugs obtained by inhibition of binding of [3H]PCP and [3H[perhydrohistrionicotoxin to Torpedo membranes were different, with correlation coefficients of 0.52 and 0.82 in the absence and presence of a receptor agonist, respectively; this suggests differences in their binding sites on the ionic channel of the AcCho receptor.

Activation, inactivation, and desensitization of acetylcholine receptor channel complex detected by binding of perhydrohistrionicotoxin

The effects of receptor activation were studied on the interaction of perhydrohistrionicotoxin (H(12)-HTX) with the ionic channel of the nicotinic acetylcholine (AcCho) receptor in membranes from the electric organ of Torpedo ocellata and with the endplate region of the soleus muscle of the rat. In Torpedo membranes, the initial rate (i.e., within 30 sec) of [(3)H]H(12)-HTX bindings to the ionic channel of the AcCho receptor was accelerated 10(2)- to 10(3)-fold in the presence of carbamoylcholine (Carb). H(12)-HTX also inhibited Carb-activated (22)Na(+) influx, over 95% inhibition at 10 muM H(12)-HTX. At this concentration H(12)-HTX did not inhibit [(3)H]AcCho binding to the AcCho-receptor sites. There was good correspondence between the degree of acceleration of [(3)H]H(12)-HTX binding and the stimulation of (22)Na(+) influx over a wide range of Carb concentrations (up to 100 muM). Preincubation of Torpedo membranes with Carb decreased the initial rate of [(3)H]H(12)-HTX binding, as well as the rate of (22)Na(+) influx, which may reflect desensitization of the AcCho-receptor. d-Tubocurarine inhibited the agonist-mediated acceleration of [(3)H]H(12)-HTX binding and (22)Na(+) influx. In the soleus muscle endplate, H(12)-HTX inhibited the transient depolarization induced by microiontophoretic application of AcCho; the more receptors activated and channels opened, the stronger was the inhibition by H(12)-HTX. These findings suggest that H(12)-HTX binds to closed and open ionic channels, with a preference for the latter conformation. It is also suggested that the conformational changes associated with activation or desensitization of the receptor can be monitored by studying binding of [(3)H]H(12)-HTX to the ionic channel sites as well as by the AcCho-receptor-regulated (22)Na(+) influx.

Phencyclidine interactions with the ionic channel of the acetylcholine receptor and electrogenic membrane

The effects of phencyclidine (PCP) were studied on the electrogenic and chemosensitive properties of the neuromuscular junction of skeletal muscle as well as on the binding sites on the acetylcholine (AcCho) receptor and its ionic channel in the electric organ membranes of the electric ray. The directly elicited muscle twitch was markedly potentiated by prolonging the falling phase of the muscle action potential and blocking delayed rectification. The indirectly elicited muscle twitch was transiently potentiated and then blocked by PCP at concentrations below 60 muM. PCP blocked miniature endplate potentials and AcCho sensitivities at the junctional region of innervated muscle, blocked the extrajunctional sensitivity of the chronically denervated muscle, and significantly depressed the peak amplitude of the endplate current (EPC) in a voltage- and time-dependent manner. PCP also caused acceleration of the time course of EPC decay and shortening of the mean life-time of the open ionic channel. The effects of PCP were not due to inhibition of AcCho receptor sites because PCP did not protect against the quasi-irreversible inhibition of receptor sites by alpha-bungarotoxin, nor did it inhibit binding of [(3)H]AcCho or [(125)I-labeled alpha-bungarotoxin to the receptor sites. On the other hand, PCP blocked the binding of [(3)H]perhydrohistrionicotoxin to the sites of the ionic channel of the AcCho receptor. The data suggest that PCP reacts with the electrogenic K(+) channel and the ionic channel associated with the AcCho receptor in the open as well as the closed conformation.

Acetylcholine receptor and ionic channel of Torpedo electroplax: binding of perhydrohistrionicotoxin to membrane and solubilized preparations

The electric organ of the ray, Torpedo ocellata, can serve as a source for both the acetylcholine (ACh) receptor and its ionic channel. The two entities were identified by their specific binding of [3H]ACh and [3H]perhydrohistrionicotoxin ([3H]H12-HTX), respectively. Binding of [3H]H12-HTX was inhibited by certain drugs and toxins, e.g., histrionicotoxin (HTX), amantadine, and tetraethylammonium (TEA) ions at concentrations that did not inhibit [3H]ACh binding. However, the specific carbamoylcholine-induced 22Na efflux from microsacs from the electric organ membranes was blocked by inhibitors of either the receptor or its ionic channel. The ionic channel had the properties of a protein as judged by heat sensitivity and the inhibition of [3H]H12-HTX binding, after incubation of the electric organ membranes with protein reagents such as p-chloromercuribenzenesulfonic acid (PCMBS) or N-ethoxycarbonyl-2-ethoxy-1,2-dihydroquinoline (EEDQ). The "binding" of [3H]H12-HTX at 4 X 10(-8) M to lipids in the microsacs was 12% of the total binding to intact microsacs and was nonsaturable and insensitive to heat or specific drugs. After solubilization with cholate, the [3H]H12-HTX binding subunits retained the same affinities for toxins and drugs. The Kd for [3H]H12-HTX was 3 X 10(-7) M. The majority of the ionic channel could be separated from the ACh receptors in the cholate extract by incubation with ACh-receptor affinity gel and ACh-receptor antibodies. The ACh receptor purified by this affinity gel contained only a few active ionic channel units as judged by low levels of high affinity binding of [3H]H12-HTX. On the other hand, after solubilization with Triton X-100, all the ionic channel molecules were either separated or denatured so that the purified ACh receptor did not exhibit high affinity binding for [3H]H12-HTX.

Amantadine: neuromuscular blockade by suppression of ionic conductance of the acetylcholine receptor

Amantadine hydrochloride decreases the sensitivity of denervated mammalian muscle to iontophoretically applied acetylcholine. The drug depresses the amplitude of the end-plate current and reverses the slope of the relation between half-decay time and membrane potential suggesting that it alters the ionic conductance that is mediated by the acetylcholine receptor. Binding studies confirm that amantadine acts on the ion conductance modulator rather than the acetylcholine receptor.

Effects of alpha-bungarotoxin and reversible cholinergic ligands on normal and denervated mammalian skeletal muscle

alpha-Bungarotoxin (BuTX; 5 micrograms/ml) completely blocked the endplate potential and extrajunctional acetylcholine (ACh) sensitivity of surface fibers in normal and chronically denervated mammalian muscles, respectively, in about 35 min. A 0.72 +/- 0.033 mV amplitude endplate potential returned in normal muscle fibers after 6.5 hr. of washout of alpha-BuTX, and an ACh sensitivity of 41.02 +/- 3.95 mV/nC was recorded in denervated muscle after 6.5 hr of wash (control being 1215 +/- 197 mV/nC). A two-step reaction of BuTX with binding sites which may allosterically interact is postulated. Several pharmacologic differences were noted between the ACh receptors at the normal endplate and those appearing extrajunctionally following denervation. In normal innervated muscles exposed to BuTX in the presence of 20 microM carbamylcholine or decamethonium, washout of both drugs restored twitch to control levels within 2 hr. Endplate potentials large enough to initiate action potentials were also recorded in most surface fibers. In contrast, these agents, in much higher concentrations (50 microM), were almost ineffective in preventing BuTX blockade of ACh sensitivity in denervated muscle. Hexamethonium (10 and 50 mM) depressed neuromuscular transmission and blocked the action of BuTX in normal muscle in a dose-dependent fashion. On the extrajunctional receptors, hexamethonium (50 mM) was ineffective in protecting against BuTX. We may conclude that at the normal endplate region there are two distinct populations of ACh receptors, both of which react with cholinergic ligands and BuTX, but that a small population (representing congruent to 1% of the total) reacts with BuTX reversibly. Our findings further suggest a clear distinction between ACh receptors located at the normal endplate region and those of the extrajunctional region of the chronically denervated mammalian muscle.