In vitro study of frog (Rana radibunda Pallas) interrenal function by use of a simplified perifusion system. I. Influence of adrenocorticotropin upon corticosterone release

Acute thermal stressor increases glucocorticoid response but minimizes testosterone and locomotor performance in the cane toad (Rhinella marina)

Climatic warming is a global problem and acute thermal stressor in particular could be considered as a major stressor for wildlife. Cane toads (Rhinella marina) have expanded their range into warmer regions of Australia and they provide a suitable model species to study the sub-lethal impacts of thermal stressor on the endocrine physiology of amphibians. Presently, there is no information to show that exposure to an acute thermal stressor could initiate a physiological stress (glucocorticoid) response and secondly, the possible effects on reproductive hormones and performance. Answering these questions is important for understanding the impacts of extreme temperature on amphibians. In this study, we experimented on cane toads from Queensland, Australia by acclimating them to mildly warm temperature (25°C) and then exposing to acute temperature treatments of 30°, 35° or 40°C (hypothetical acute thermal stressors). We measured acute changes in the stress hormone corticosterone and the reproductive hormone testosterone using standard capture and handling protocol and quantified the metabolites of both hormones non-invasively using urinary enzyme-immunoassays. Furthermore, we measured performance trait (i.e. righting response score) in the control acclimated and the three treatment groups. Corticosterone stress responses increased in all toads during exposure to an acute thermal stressor. Furthermore, exposure to a thermal stressor also decreased testosterone levels in all toads. The duration of the righting response (seconds) was longer for toads that were exposed to 40°C than to 30°, 35° or 25°C. The increased corticosterone stress response with increased intensity of the acute thermal stressor suggests that the toads perceived this treatment as a stressor. Furthermore, the results also highlight a potential trade-off with performance and reproductive hormones. Ultimately, exposure acute thermal stressors due to climatic variability could impact amphibians at multiple eco-physiological levels through impacts on endocrine physiology, performance and potentially fitness traits (e.g. reproductive output).

Urinary corticosterone metabolite responses to capture, and annual patterns of urinary corticosterone in wild and captive endangered Fijian ground frogs (Platymantis vitiana)

This study was based on the development of a non-invasive glucocorticoid enzyme-immunoassay for the assessment of stress in wild and captive endangered Fijian ground frogs (Platymantis vitiana). Enzyme-immunoassays were developed and validated for the first time to non-invasively measure both cortisol and corticosterone metabolites in frog urine. Frog urine showed parallel displacement with corticosterone but not cortisol standards, therefore corticosterone enzyme immunoassays were used to examine stress in wild and captive frogs. Urinary corticosterone metabolite concentrations increased in frog urine (n = 4) at 6 h, 1 day and 2 days after injection with adrenocorticotropic hormone (0.44 μg g–1 bodyweight), indicating that the corticosterone enzyme-immunoassay could detect changes in circulating corticosterone in frogs. Urinary concentrations of corticosterone were measured in wild frogs (n = 18) after capture in the field. The first measurement beyond the initial sample was at 2–3 h. Mean urinary corticosterone concentrations rose after the initial sample and were significantly elevated in samples collected 3–4 h after capture. This is the first demonstration of a urinary corticosterone response to capture in amphibians. Urinary corticosterone metabolite concentrations for all months combined were lower in captive males than in wild males, and differed between vitellogenic, non-vitellogenic and captive females. Concentrations did not differ between captive and wild females. In conclusion, urinary corticosterone enzyme immunoassays can be used in frogs for assessing stress responses to capture and natural stress profiles of both captive and wild populations.

Hormonal regulation of ion and water transport in anuran amphibians

Amphibians occupy a wide variety of ecological habitats, and their adaptation is made possible through the specialization of the epithelia of their osmoregulatory organs, such as the skin, kidney, and urinary bladder, which control the hydromineral and acid-base balance of their internal medium. Amphibians can change drastically plasma Na+, Cl-, and urea levels and excretion rates in response to environmental stimuli such as acute desiccation and changes in external salinity. Several hormones and the autonomic nervous system act to control osmoregulation. Several ion channels including an epithelial sodium channel (ENaC), a urea transporter (UT), and water channels (AQPs) are found in epithelial tissues of their osmoregulatory organs. This mini review examines the currents status of our knowledge about hormone receptors for arginine vasotocin, angiotensin II and aldosterone, and membrane ion channels and transporters, such as ENaC, UT, and AQPs in amphibians.

Characterization of endozepines in the human testicular tissue: effect of triakontatetraneuropeptide on testosterone secretion

Previous studies have shown that endozepines, i.e. endogenous ligands of benzodiazepine (BZD) receptors, stimulate steroidogenesis in adrenocortical and Leydig cells. In the present report, we have investigated the presence and action of endozepines in the human testis. Immunohistochemical labeling revealed the occurrence of endozepine-like immunoreactivity in Leydig, Sertoli, and germ cells. HPLC analysis combined with a specific RIA resolved two immunoreactive peaks that coeluted with synthetic octadecaneuropeptide (ODN) and triakontatetraneuropeptide (TTN). RT-PCR amplification showed that the mRNA encoding the endozepine precursor diazepam-binding inhibitor is expressed in the human testis. The action of endozepines on testosterone production was studied in vitro using perifused human testicular fragments. Administration of TTN provoked a dose-dependent increase in testosterone secretion, whereas ODN had no effect. The stimulatory action of TTN on testosterone production was totally blocked by flunitrazepam, a peripheral-type BZD receptor antagonist/central-type BZD receptor (CBR) agonist. Conversely, the CBR agonist clonazepam and the CBR antagonist flumazenil did not affect testosterone secretion. Collectively, these results suggest that, in the human testicular tissue, TTN may exert an intracrine and/or paracrine control of steroidogenesis through activation of a peripheral-type BZD receptor.

Occurrence of beta-endorphin binding sites in the pituitary of the frog Rana esculenta: effect of beta-endorphin on luteinizing hormone secretion

The possible effect of proopiomelanocortin-derived peptide, beta-endorphin on frog gonadotrope cells was investigated. Binding and internalization of beta-endorphin to pituitary pars distalis cultured cells were visualized by immunofluorescence and analyzed by means of confocal laser scanning microscopy. Using biotinylated endorphin, the time-course of beta-binding showed that this opioid was internalized through receptor-mediated endocytosis, the mechanism in which actin and clathrin were involved; then, the lysosomal degradation program occurred at later stages. The beta-endorphin binding was well antagonized by Naloxone, the opiate receptor antagonist, and up-regulated since more rapid response was obtained in the previously primed cells. The double immunostaining reaction for beta-endorphin and LH beta-subunit revealed that half the beta-endorphin labeled cell population was positively immunostained for LH beta-subunit, and beta-endorphin was able to induce an increasing trend of LH secretion in cultured pars distalis cells. Therefore, it seems that beta-endorphin acts directly on pituitary pars distalis and influences gonadotropin secretion through the interaction with its own receptor.

Responsiveness of the hypothalamo-pituitary-interrenal axis in an amphibian (Bufo terrestris) exposed to coal combustion wastes

To assess the responsiveness of the interrenal axis to stress, we injected toads exposed to coal combustion wastes and toads from an unpolluted reference site with adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), as well as the vehicle alone (saline). Initial circulating levels of corticosterone in toads captured at the polluted area were significantly higher than levels in toads from the reference site. Corticosterone levels in toads from the polluted site remained high even after 2 weeks of laboratory acclimation and injection with saline. The results may suggest disruption of hepatic enzymes responsible for the metabolic clearance of steroid hormones. Injection of toads from the polluted site with ACTH had no effect on plasma corticosterone levels, whereas a similar treatment of toads from the reference site stimulated a marked increase in corticosterone. Our study provides evidence that toads exposed to coal combustion wastes may be less efficient at responding to additional environmental stressors.

Pharmacological profile of serotonergic receptors in the adrenal gland

The secretory activity of the adrenal gland is mainly regulated by peptidergic hormones (ACTH, angiotensin II) and ions. However, there is now increasing evidence that local factors, including neuropeptides and neurotransmitters, can also participate in the control of adrenocortical cells. In particular, serotonin (5-HT), produced by adrenochromaffin cells in frog and rat as well as by mast cells in the adrenal gland of rat and human, stimulates corticosteroid secretion. In both frog and human adrenal gland, the benzamide derivative (R,S)-zacopride induces a robust increase in corticosteroid release suggesting that the effect of 5-HT on steroidogenesis is mediated through activation of 5-HT4 receptors. In contrast, in rat, the stimulatory effect of 5-HT on aldosterone secretion is clearly not mediated by 5-HT4 receptors. In all three species, incubation of adrenocortical fragments with 5-HT induces a significant increase in cAMP formation. Our data suggest that 5-HT, released within the adrenal cortex, may act as a paracrine factor to stimulate steroid secretion. Although the corticotropic effect of 5-HT has been conserved from amphibians to primates, the type of receptors involved in the action of 5-HT markedly differs across species.

Role of the cytoskeleton in the secretory response of the frog adrenal gland to calcitonin gene-related peptide

We have previously shown that calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) stimulates the secretion of corticosterone and aldosterone from the frog adrenal gland in vitro. The aim of the present study was to investigate the role of cytoskeletal elements in the stimulatory effect of CGRP on corticosteroid production. Perifusion of adrenal explants with the microfilament-disrupting agent cytochalasin B (5 x 10(-5) M) induced a reversible inhibition of the spontaneous secretion of corticosterone and aldosterone, and markedly reduced the stimulatory effect of frog CGRP (3 x 10(-7) M) on corticosteroid release. In contrast, administration of the antimicrotubular agent vinblastine (10(-5) M) and the intermediate filament inhibitor beta-beta' iminodipropionitrile (10(-3) M) had no significant effect on either spontaneous or CGRP-evoked steroid secretion. Taken together, these data provide the first evidence for the involvement of microfilaments in CGRP-induced corticosteroid secretion. In contrast, microtubules and intermediate filaments are not implicated in the mechanism of action of CGRP.

Pharmacological profile of the tachykinin receptor involved in the stimulation of corticosteroid secretion in the frog Rana ridibunda

It has recently been shown that the adrenal gland of the frog Rana ridibunda is densely innervated by a network of fibers containing two novel tachykinins, i.e. ranakinin (the counterpart of substance P) and [Leu3, Ile7]neurokinin A. Both ranakinin and [Leu3, Ile7]neurokinin A stimulate corticosteroid secretion from frog adrenal glands in vitro. In the present study, we have investigated the pharmacological profile of the receptors involved in the stimulatory action of ranakinin on perifused frog adrenal slices. The selective NK-1 receptor antagonists [D-Pro4, D-Trp7,9]substance P 4-11 and CP-96,345, did not affect the stimulatory action of ranakinin. The selective NK-1 agonist substance P 6-11 had no effect on corticosteroid secretion. The non-peptidic NK-1 receptor antagonist RP 67580 significantly reduced the stimulatory effect of ranakinin on corticosterone and aldosterone secretion by 57 and 55%, respectively. In addition, the dual NK-1/NK-2 receptor antagonist FK-224 significantly inhibited the effect of ranakinin on corticosterone (- 80%) and aldosterone secretion (- 95%). Finally, the amphiphilic analogue of substance P, [D-Pro2, D-Phe7, D-Trp9]substance P, had no effect on corticosteroid secretion. These data suggest that in the frog adrenal gland the stimulatory action of ranakinin on steroid secretion is mediated by a novel type of receptor which differs substantially from the mammalian NK-1 receptor subtype.

Effect of a series of 5-HT4 receptor agonists and antagonists on steroid secretion by the adrenal gland in vitro

We have previously shown that serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine, 5-HT) stimulate corticosterone and aldosterone secretion from perifused frog adrenal gland in vitro through activation of 5-HT4 receptors. In the present study, we have used this model to investigate the effect of newly discovered 5-HT4 receptor agonists and antagonists on corticosteroid secretion. Serotonin, the benzamide derivatives (R,S)-zacopride ((R,S)-4-amino-N-(1- azabicyclo[2.2.2]oct-3-yl)-5-chloro-2-methoxybenzamide, HCI) and its enantiomers, the azabicycloalkyl benzimidazole derivatives BIMU 1 (endo-N- (8-methyl-8-azabicyclo-[3.2.1]oct-3-yl)-2,3-dihydro-3-ethyl-2-oxo- 1H-benzimidazole-1-carboxamide, HCl) and BIMU 8 (endo-N-(8-methyl-8- azabicyclo-[3.2.1]oct-3-yl)-2,3-dihydro-(1-methyl)ethyl-2-oxo-1H- benzimidazole-1-carboxamide, HCl) were all capable of enhancing corticosterone and aldosterone secretion in a dose-dependent manner. Serotonin was the most potent stimulator of steroidogenesis (EC50 = 1.5 x 10(-7) M) while the potency of the benzamide and the benzimidazolone derivatives was approximately 10 times lower. The rank order of efficacy of the different 5-HT4 receptor agonists was: (S)-zacopride > BIMU 8 = (R,S)-zacopride > BIMU 1 = (R)-zacopride = 5-HT. The stimulatory effects of 5-HT and the benzimidazolone derivatives on corticosteroid secretion were not additive, suggesting that they activated the same receptor.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Involvement of the cytoskeleton in the mechanism of action of endothelin on frog adrenocortical cells

In a previous report, we have shown that endothelin-1 (ET-1) is a potent stimulator of corticosterone and aldosterone secretion by frog adrenocortical cells. In the present study, we examine the possible involvement of cytoskeletal elements in the mechanism of action of ET-1 on corticosteroid secretion from frog adrenal gland. The microfilament disrupting agent cytochalasin B (5 x 10(-5) M) induced a reversible inhibition of the spontaneous secretion of corticosteroid and blocked the response of adrenocortical cells to ET-1 (5 x 10(-9) M). In contrast, the antimicrotubular agent vinblastine (10(-5) M) and the intermediate filament inhibitor beta-beta' iminodipropionitrile (10(-3) M) had virtually no effect on both spontaneous and endothelin-induced steroidogenesis. Taken together, these results indicate that, in the frog adrenal gland, the integrity of the microfilament network is required for the corticotropic activity of ET-1 whereas microtubules and intermediate filaments are apparently not involved in the mechanism of action of ET-1.

In vitro study of the effect of urotensin II on corticosteroid secretion in the frog Rana ridibunda

Urotensin II is a cyclic dodecapeptide that was originally isolated from the fish urophysis, the terminus of a neurosecretory system located in the caudal area of the spinal cord. We have recently isolated and characterized urotensin II in the brain of a tetrapod, the frog Rana ridibunda. Recent reports, suggesting that urotensin II may stimulate cortisol secretion in fish, prompted us to investigate the possible effects of fish and frog urotensin II on corticosteroid secretion in amphibians. Exposure of perifused frog adrenal slices to goby (Gillichthys mirabilis) urophysis extracts induced a marked stimulation of corticosterone and aldosterone secretion. In contrast, at concentrations ranging from 10(-10) to 10(-6) M, synthetic goby urotensin II had no effect on corticosteroid production. Similarly, infusion of synthetic frog urotensin II (10(-10) to 10(-6) M) did not modify the spontaneous release of corticosterone and aldosterone. In addition, frog urotensin II had no effect on ACTH- and angiotensin II-induced secretion of corticosteroids. These results show that in frog, urotensin II does not modulate spontaneous and ACTH- or angiotensin II-evoked adrenal steroidogenesis.

Purification and characterization of joining peptide and N-terminal peptide of proopiomelanocortin from the pars distalis of the bullfrog pituitary

The joining peptide (JP) and the N-terminal peptide of proopiomelanocortin (NPP) were isolated from an acid-acetone extract of the distal lobe of the pituitary of the bullfrog, Rana catesbeiana, and purified by gel filtration and reverse-phase high performance liquid chromatography. The amino acid sequence of the bullfrog JP resembled the sequences of the JPs of Rana ridibunda (86% similarity) and Xenopus laevis (54% similarity), as deduced from the nucleotide sequences of their cDNAs. The amino acid sequence of bullfrog NPP showed 100%, 85%, and 50% similarity with those of Rana ridibunda, Xenopus laevis, and human NPPs, respectively. Administration of bullfrog NPP (0.05-5 micrograms/ml) to perifused Rana ridibunda interrenal slices induced a dose-dependent stimulation of corticosterone and aldosterone release. The present results indicate that the primary structure of NPP has been highly conserved during evolution. These data also reveal that NPP, which has no sequence homology with ACTH, exhibits a substantial corticotropic activity.

In vitro study of the effect of adenosine on frog adrenocortical cells

Previous reports have shown that adenosine in rat inhibits both spontaneous and ACTH-induced release of corticosteroids through activation of adenosine A1 receptors. In the present study, we have investigated the possible effect of adenosine in the secretion of corticosteroids in amphibians using a perfusion technique for frog adrenocortical slices. Infusion of adenosine, at concentrations ranging from 10(-7) to 10(-4) M, had no effect on the basal output of corticosterone and aldosterone by frog interrenal cells. Similarly, adenosine did not affect the response of frog adrenocortical slices to ACTH, vasoactive intestinal peptide, or angiotensin II. The stable adenosine A1 receptor agonist N6-phenylisopropyl adenosine (PIA) was also totally devoid of effect on the spontaneous or ACTH-induced release of corticosteroids. These results show that in amphibians, adenosine does not modulate adrenal steroidogenesis.

Serotonin-induced stimulation of cortisol secretion from human adrenocortical tissue is mediated through activation of a serotonin4 receptor subtype

The occurrence of serotonin in the human adrenal gland was demonstrated both by immuno-histochemical and biochemical approaches. Using specific polyclonal antibodies to serotonin, the presence of numerous immunoreactive cells was revealed by means of the peroxidase-antiperoxidase technique. These cells exhibited the morphological characteristics of mast cells. Combination of high performance liquid chromatography and electrochemical detection showed the presence of substantial amounts of both serotonin and its metabolite 5-hydroxyindolacetic acid in adrenocortical extracts. The role of serotonin in the regulation of steroidogenesis from human adrenocortical slices was studied in vitro using a perifusion system technique coupled to a specific radioimmunoassay for cortisol. Graded doses of serotonin (from 10(-8) M to 3 x 10(-7) M) increased cortisol production in a dose-dependent manner. Prolonged exposure of adrenal fragments to serotonin (10(-7) M) induced a biphasic response, i.e. a rapid and transient increase in cortisol secretion followed by a plateau phase, suggesting the existence of a desensitization phenomenon. The stimulatory effect of serotonin (10(-7) M) was not altered during infusion of the serotonin1 and/or serotonin2 receptor antagonists methysergide (10(-6) M) and ketanserin (10(-6) M), respectively. In contrast, ICS 205 930 (10(-6) M), a non-selective serotonin3/serotonin4 antagonist, totally abolished the response of adrenal slices to serotonin (10(-7) M). The benzamide derivative zacopride, considered as a serotonin4 agonist, induced a robust stimulation of cortisol secretion. In addition, the corticotropic effects of serotonin (10(-7) M) and zacopride (10(-6) M) were not additive. Incubation of adrenocortical fragments with zacopride (10(-6) M) or serotonin (10(-6) M) caused a significant increase in cAMP formation. Taken together, these data suggest that serotonin, locally released by intra-adrenal mast-like cells, may act as a paracrine factor to stimulate cortisol secretion in man. Our results also indicate that serotonin-induced corticosteroid production is mediated through activation of a serotonin4 receptor subtype positively coupled to adenylate cyclase.

Interactions between vasotocin and other corticotropic factors on the frog adrenal gland

The adrenocortical cells of the amphibian interrenal (adrenal) gland are controlled by multiple factors including neuropeptides and classical neurotransmitters. In particular, it has recently been shown that vasotocin (AVT), the amphibian counterpart of vasopressin, is a potent stimulator of frog corticosteroidogenesis. In the present study, we have investigated the possible interactions between AVT and other regulatory factors on frog interrenal tissue. When AVT (10(-9) M) and serotonin (10(-6) M) were infused together, a strict addition of the individual effects was observed. Similar results were obtained with concomitant infusion of AVT and vasoactive intestinal peptide or AVT and ACTH. In contrast, when AVT (10(-9) M) and acetylcholine (5 x 10(-5) M) were added together, the increase in corticosteroid secretion was less than additive. Dopamine induced a significant reduction of AVT-evoked stimulation of corticosterone production. These results indicate that regulatory peptides or classical neurotransmitters which participate in the control of adrenal steroidogenesis may interact on their target cell to modulate the activity of their congeners.

Arginine vasotocin (AVT) and AVT-related peptide are major aldosterone-releasing factors in the bullfrog neurointermediate lobe

Two major components which stimulate aldosterone release from Xenopus adrenocortical tissue were isolated from an acid-acetone extract of the neurointermediate lobes of the bullfrog (Rana catesbeiana) using C18 Sep-Pak cartridges, Sephadex G-50, and reverse-phase HPLC columns. One of the components was identified as arginine vasotocin (AVT) from its HPLC profile and amino acid sequence analysis. The other was an AVT-like decapeptide with an extra glycine residue at the C-terminus of nonamidated AVT, which was recently termed hydrin 2. The yields of these two peptides were almost the same. They also showed equipotent activity in stimulating water flux from the isolated urinary bladder of the toad (Bufo japonicus).

Neurohypophysial hormones and steroidogenesis in the interrenals of Xenopus laevis

The influence of arginine vasotocin (AVT) on the interrenal secretion of the clawed toad (Xenopus laevis) was studied combining in vivo and in vitro experiments. In vivo: A single injection of 3 nmol AVT per 100 g body weight was given, and the concentrations of corticosterone and aldosterone in the serum were measured after 1, 3, 6, 12, and 24 hr. The serum levels of both steroids remained elevated over 6 hr and declined to normal levels within 12 hr. The increase of the aldosterone concentration was relatively stronger than that of corticosterone. In vitro: A perifusion system was used to study the influence of AVT concentrations ranging from 0.1 to 50 nM on the secretion rates of corticosterone and aldosterone. The response of the interrenals was dose dependent; corresponding to the in vivo results, the elevation rate was higher for aldosterone than for corticosterone. The effects of several nonapeptides were compared. AVT was most effective, followed by mesotocin and arginine vasopressin (AVP). Isotocin and oxytocin had less effect. The selective agonist of the mammalian V2 receptor (1-deamino-8-D-arginine)-vasopressin (DDAVP) did not stimulate the interrenals, while the V1 receptor-selective antagonist ((1-beta-mercapto-beta,beta-cyclopentamethylene propionic acid)-2-(O-methyl)-tyrosine)-AVP could not diminish the stimulation by AVT. Thus, the AVT receptor of the amphibian interrenal must be a special one and is different from the V1 and V2 types of mammals. In a comparison of the effects of AVT with other stimulators such as ACTH(1-28) or urotensin II, it was found that the sensitivity of the interrenals to AVT was similar to that of these peptides. The results indicate that AVT plays an important role in the osmomineral regulation of Xenopus laevis by acting on the corticosteroid secretion of the interrenals.

Adrenal activity in the female lizard Lacerta vivipara Jacquin during artificial hibernation

The variations of interrenal activity were investigated in captive female Lacerta vivipara submitted to artificial hibernation (4 months at 6 degrees) and compared to data obtained in nonhibernating females. Plasma corticosterone levels reached 25 ng/ml during the prehibernal period. During the first day following the transfer to cold conditions, an initial significant peak of plasma corticosterone was observed (up to 63 ng/ml). A second, more gradual, but also significant increase was observed thereafter and levels remained maximum during the two first months of artificial hibernation (75 ng/ml). The circulating levels of corticosterone then decreased gradually. At the time of transfer to warm conditions, a third significant peak of corticosterone was observed (up to 82 ng/ml). The minimal values (15 ng/ml) previously described during vitellogenesis were reached within 1 week. High corticosterone levels appeared to be actually related to the "hibernation state" since they were also observed in hibernating males and not in nonhibernating females. In order to explain the pattern of plasma corticosterone, variations of adrenal sensitivity to synthetic ACTH 1-39 were examined in vitro, using a perifusion system technique. Surprisingly, ACTH-induced stimulation of corticosterone and aldosterone release was significantly reduced during hibernation, whatever the temperature of the perifusion bath (30 or 6 degrees). Nevertheless, a fourfold increase in the half-life of injected tritiated corticosterone was observed during hibernation which likely contributes to maintain high levels of corticosterone despite a low production rate of the hormone.

Adrenal activity in the female lizard Lacerta vivipara jacquin associated with breeding activities

Variations of adrenal activity were studied in captive viviparous females Lacerta vivipara, in relation to breeding activities. The study was restricted to the period of active life which includes both the phase of annual reproduction and a phase of sexual inactivity. Significant seasonal changes in plasma corticosterone levels were measured with a peak during the second half of gestation followed by an abrupt fall at parturition. No significant variations in plasma aldosterone levels were observed. A limited extraovarian production of progesterone was detected which might be of adrenal origin. The half-life of injected tritiated corticosterone was not longer in pregnant than in nonreproductive females, suggesting that the peak of circulating corticosterone in pregnant females corresponds to an increase in the production rate of the hormone. The functional importance of the pituitary-adrenal axis was demonstrated in vivo: plasma corticosteroid levels dropped to the detection limit after adenohypophysectomy. Seasonal variations of adrenal sensitivity to synthetic ACTH 1-39 were examined in vitro, using a perifusion system. No significant variations were observed throughout the period of active life. These results suggest that the peak of plasma corticosterone during gestation can be ascribed to activation of the pituitary-adrenal axis. Experimental modifications of circulating corticosterone level during late gestation altered the timing of parturition, thus indicating that the fall of corticosterone just before term may be involved in the process of parturition in the female L. vivipara.

Structure-activity relationships of monomeric and dimeric synthetic ACTH fragments in perifused frog adrenal slices

The effect of synthetic monomeric and dimeric ACTH fragments on spontaneous and ACTH(1-39)-evoked steroidogenesis in frog interrenal tissue was studied in vitro. Infusion of ACTH fragment 11-24 (10(-6) M) or its dimeric conjugates, attached either by their N-terminal, Glu(11-24)2, or their C-terminal amino acid, (11-24)2Lys, had no effect on the spontaneous release of corticosteroids. The monomer ACTH(11-24) and the dimer Glu(11-24)2 were also totally devoid of effect on the steroidogenic response to ACTH(1-39) (10(-9)M). In contrast, the (11-24)2Lys conjugate (10(-6)M) significantly decreased ACTH-induced stimulation of corticosterone and aldosterone (-63 and -62%, respectively). The dimeric conjugate of the fragment ACTH(7-24), linked through the C-terminal ends, (7-24)2Lys (10(-6)M), was also completely devoid of effect on basal steroidogenesis but caused a marked decrease of ACTH-evoked corticosterone and aldosterone release (-72 and -80%, respectively). Conversely, infusion of the dimer (1-24)2Lys gave rise to a dose-related stimulation of corticosterone and aldosterone release. The time-course of the steroidogenic response to the dimer was similar to that of ACTH(1-24). The 1-24 conjugate was 70 times less potent than the monomers ACTH(1-24) and ACTH(1-39). These results suggest that amphibian adrenocortical cells contain only one class of ACTH receptor which recognizes the 11-24 domain of ACTH with an affinity which depends on the presence of a strong potentiator segment, located at the N-terminus end of ACTH(1-39). Since the ACTH-dimers are thought to induce cross-linking of the receptors, our results suggest that aggregation of ACTH receptors causes a down-regulation of the receptors.

Immunocytochemical Localization and Biochemical Characterization of alpha-Melanocyte-Stimulating Hormon in the Brain of the Rainbow Trout, Salmo gairdneri

Abstract The distribution of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH)-like immunoreactivity in the central nervous system of the rainbow trout Salmo gairdneri was investigated by indirect immunofluorescence and peroxidase-antiperoxidase techniques, using a highly specific antiserum generated in rabbits against synthetic alpha-MSH. Immunoreactive perikarya were exclusively observed in the basal hypothalamus within the pars anterioris of the nucleus lateralis tuberis. In this region, a moderate number of small stained cell bodies were observed surrounding the dorsal wall of the anterior infundibular recess. These immunoreactive cells were organized in rostro-caudal rows extending over the whole portion of the nucleus. Positive fibres originating from these perikarya were visualized in the dorsal posterior lobe and the ventral hypothalamus. A dense tract of immunoreactive fibres projected ventrally through the pituitary stalk and terminated in the neurohypophysis. The concentrations of alpha-MSH in different regions of the brain were measured by means of a sensitive and specific radioimmunoassay. The dilution curves obtained with synthetic alpha-MSH and serial dilutions of diencephalon, mesencephalon, medulla oblongata, telencephalon or pituitary extracts were strictly parallel. The highest concentration of alpha-MSH in brain was found in the diencephalon (1.31 +/- 0.07 ng/mg protein). In contrast alpha-MSH was not detectable in cerebellar extracts. Reverse-phase high-performance liquid chromatography and radioimmunoassay were used to characterize alpha-MSH-like peptides in the trout brain and pituitary. Two major forms of immunoreactive alpha-MSH were resolved by high performance liquid chromatography in hypothalamic extracts; these peptides exhibited the same retention times as des-Na-acetyl alpha-MSH and its sulfoxide derivative, respectively. Additional peaks of alpha-MSH immunoreactive material were detected in pituitary extract. These latter peptides coeluted with authentic alpha-MSH, diacetyl alpha-MSH and their sulfoxide forms. These results provide the first evidence for the presence of alpha-MSH in the brain of a teleostean fish. Our data indicate that, in the brain, the immunoreactivity corresponds to the non-acetylated form of alpha-MSH, while three different types of alpha-MSH-like molecules (namely deacetylated, monoacetylated, and diacetylated forms) coexist in the pituitary. It thus appears that, in salmonoid fish, mono- or diacetylation of the N-terminal serine residue of aL-MSH only occurs at the pituitary level.

Mechanism of action of serotonin on frog adrenal cortex

The mechanism of action of serotonin (5-HT) on frog adrenal cortex has been investigated in vitro using the perifusion system technique. The direct effect of 5-HT on corticosteroid secreting cells was demonstrated, using enzymatically dispersed adrenocortical cells. Melatonin and 5-HTP appeared to be less potent than 5-HT to enhance corticosteroid secretion. In contrast Trp and 5-HIAA were totally devoid of effect on steroid secretion. To investigate the type of receptor involved in the stimulatory effect of 5-HT on adrenocortical cells, adrenal slices were stimulated with 5-HT in absence or presence of various antagonists. We observed that classical antagonists of 5-HT1, 5-HT2 and 5-HT3 type receptors failed to block 5-HT-induced corticosteroid secretion in our model. These results show that 5-HT exerts a direct effect on corticosteroid-secreting cells. Our data also indicates that the type of receptor involved in the action of 5-HT in frog adrenal cortex differs from mammalian 5-HT receptors.

Dopamine inhibits corticosteroid secretion in frog adrenocortical cells: evidence for the involvement of prostaglandins in the mechanism of action of dopamine

We have investigated the possible involvement of arachidonic acid metabolites in dopamine-induced inhibition of adrenocortical steroidogenesis. Administration of dopamine (5 x 10(-5) M) for 20 min to perifused frog adrenal slices caused a marked reduction of the release of both prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and 6-keto-PGF1 alpha, the stable metabolite of prostacyclin (PGI2). Dopamine also induced a significant inhibition of corticosterone and aldosterone secretion. A lag period of 20 min was observed between inhibition of prostanoid and corticosteroid releases. Prolonged dopamine infusion did not prevent the stimulatory effect of PGE1, PGE2 or arachidonic acid on corticosteroid secretion. These observations indicate that activation of dopaminergic receptors in adrenocortical cells is linked to an inhibition of arachidonic acid metabolism. Our data also suggest that the inhibitory effect of dopamine occurs at a step preceding arachidonic acid formation.

Effect of atrial natriuretic factor on corticosteroid production by perifused frog interrenal slices

In order to investigate a possible role of atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) in the control of corticosteroid biosynthesis in amphibians, we have examined the effect of synthetic ANF (Arg 101-Tyr 126) on perifused frog interrenal slices. ANF did not affect the spontaneous secretion of corticosterone and aldosterone. In contrast, ANF (10(-6) M) inhibited ACTH-and angiotensin II-stimulated corticosteroid production. ANF was more potent in suppressing aldosterone than corticosterone secretion. Immunocytochemical studies using a specific ANF antiserum revealed the presence of ANF-like immunoreactive fibers in the vicinity of interrenal cells. It is thus proposed that, in amphibians, both "hormonal" ANF secreted by myocytes and "neurohormonal" ANF delivered by peptidergic nerve terminals coursing among interrenal cells may partake in the regulation of corticosteroidogenesis.

The dynamics of the steroidogenic response of perifused Xenopus ovarian explants to gonadotropins

Steroid release before and during maturation was studied in Xenopus ovarian follicles under various conditions of stimulation of LH in a perifusion system. Acute stimulation by 15 micrograms of LH induces a 10-fold increase in the androgen (testosterone and androstenedione) level which reaches a maximum 4 hr later and then slowly decreases until the 25th hour. Repeated stimulations every 2 or 4 hr are followed by the same androgen increase during the first 8 or 10 hr and then by a slow decrease in the secretion despite new LH injections. A significant increase in progesterone secretion is seen only after at least two stimulations (8 hr). Estradiol secretion slowly increases to a moderate level during the first 5 hr and then remains stable whatever the stimulation. During continuous stimulation (LH 0.5 microgram/ml) androgen levels reach an initial maximum after 4 hr and then fluctuate with a 2-hr period. Addition of theophyllin to the medium enhances these fluctuations. After 12 hr when the progesterone has increased, androgen secretion diminishes to reach a basal level without fluctuations. Germinal vesicle breakdown occurs only in follicles that have been appropriately stimulated to secrete androgens and progesterone during the required time.

Neuronal and paracrine regulation of adrenal steroidogenesis: interactions between acetylcholine, serotonin and vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) on corticosteroid production by frog interrenal tissue

The adrenocortical cells of frog interrenal (adrenal) tissue are controlled by multiple factors. Recently, we have shown that corticosteroidogenesis is stimulated by acetylcholine released from splanchnic nerve terminals as well as by serotonin and vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) which are both contained in chromaffin cells. Since these 3 putative neuroregulators are known to interact with each other on various target organs, we have investigated possible coordinate actions of acetylcholine, serotonin and VIP on adrenal steroid production, using a perifusion system technique for frog interrenal tissue. Simultaneous infusion of submaximal doses of VIP (10(-5) M) and acetylcholine (5 X 10(-5) M) induced stimulations of corticosteroids (corticosterone and aldosterone) which were strictly additive. When VIP (10(-5) M) and serotonin (5 X 10(-6) M) were infused together, a potentiation of the individual responses was observed. In contrast, concomitant infusion of acetylcholine (5 X 10(-5) M) and serotonin (5 X 10(-6) M) caused a total blockage of the stimulatory effect of serotonin. Muscarine (10(-5) M) caused a similar blockade of the response of adrenocortical cells to serotonin while nicotine (5 X 10(-5) M) did not alter the stimulatory effect of serotonin. The inhibitory effect of acetylcholine on serotonin-induced steroidogenesis was antagonized by atropine (10(-5) M). Thus, acetylcholine appears to block the corticotropic action of serotonin by interacting with typical muscarinic receptors. Taken together our results indicate that 3 of the neuroregulators which participate in the control of adrenal steroidogenesis, namely acetylcholine, serotonin and VIP, may interact on their target cell to modulate the activity of their congeners.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Serotonin stimulates corticosteroid secretion by frog adrenocortical tissue in vitro

The mode of action of serotonin (5-HT) in the regulation of frog adrenal steroidogenesis was studied in vitro using the perifusion system technique. Graded doses of 5-HT (from 10(-8) to 10(-6) M) increased both corticosterone and aldosterone production in a dose-dependent manner. Short pulses (20 min) of 10(-6) M 5-HT, administered at 130 min intervals within the same experiment, did not cause any desensitization phenomenon. Indomethacin (IDM; 5 microM), a cyclooxygenase inhibitor which induced a dramatic decrease in the spontaneous secretion of corticosteroids, did not impair the stimulatory effect of 5-HT on corticosterone and aldosterone production. In the absence of calcium, 5-HT (10(-6) M) was still able to stimulate corticosteroid production. Dantrolene (5 x 10(-5) M), a blocker of calcium mobilization from intracellular pools which significantly inhibited the spontaneous production of corticosteroids, did not suppress 5-HT-evoked corticosteroid secretion. These results show that 5-HT, stored in adrenal chromaffin cells, may act as a paracrine factor to stimulate adrenal steroidogenesis in the frog. Our data also indicate that the mechanism of action of 5-HT does not depend on prostaglandin biosynthesis.

Interrenal activity in the female lizard Lacerta vivipara J.: in vitro response to ACTH 1-39 and to [Sar1, Val5] angiotensin II (ANG II)

A perifusion system technique was developed in order to determine in vitro the respective roles of ACTH and ANG II in the regulation of adrenal steroidogenesis in the lizard Lacerta vivipara. Synthetic human ACTH 1-39, administered as 20-min pulses, stimulated corticosterone (B) and aldosterone (A) release in a dose-dependent manner. The increase in corticosterone output was higher than that in aldosterone output, leading to an enhancement of the B/A ratio. Iterative stimulations with 1 nM ACTH (20-min pulses every 120 min) led to reproducible increases in corticosterone and aldosterone release. Prolonged stimulation with 1 nM ACTH (up to 240 min) caused a sustained increase in corticosteroid release, suggesting that, in the lizard, ACTH does not induce any desensitization phenomenon. The angiotensin II analogue [Sar1, Val5] ANG II also stimulated corticosterone and aldosterone release in a dose-dependent manner; the stimulatory effects of ANG II on both steroids were very similar. These results indicate that, in lizards, ACTH plays a major role in the regulation of adrenal steroidogenesis. Since ANG II stimulates the production of gluco- and mineralocorticoids, our data raise the question of the existence of two cell types synthesizing corticosterone and aldosterone, respectively, in reptiles.

In vitro study of frog adrenal function--IX. Evidence against the involvement of lipoxygenase metabolites in the control of steroid production

The possible role of arachidonic acid metabolites of the lipoxygenase pathway in the regulation of steroidogenesis was studied in vitro using perifused frog interrenal (adrenal) glands. Graded doses of arachidonic acid (10(-6)-10(-4)M) increased the production of corticosterone and aldosterone in a dose-dependent manner. In the presence of indomethacin (5 X 10(-6)M), the effect of arachidonic acid on steroid secretion was totally abolished. Nordihydroguaiaretic acid (NDGA: 10(-6)M), a lipoxygenase inhibitor, did not alter the spontaneous secretion of corticosteroids and did not impair the stimulatory effect of arachidonic acid. In the presence of NDGA, both ACTH and angiotensin II were still able to stimulate corticosteroid production. Our data support the view that arachidonic acid metabolites play an important role in the regulation of amphibian steroidogenesis. Moreover, the results show that the lipoxygenase pathway is not involved in the spontaneous secretion of corticosteroids and in angiotensin II- or ACTH-induced steroidogenesis.

Effect of the intermediate filament inhibitor IDPN on steroid secretion by frog adrenal glands

In order to determine the role of intermediate filaments in adrenal steroidogenesis, we have studied the effect of IDPN (beta-beta'iminodipropionitrile), an intermediate filaments perturbing agent, on corticosteroid secretion by frog interrenal glands in vitro. A 6-h administration of IDPN (10(-3) M) did not affect the spontaneous release of corticosterone and aldosterone. While IDPN did not alter the response of adrenal fragments to ACTH, the drug caused a marked decrease in angiotensin II-induced stimulation of corticosterone and aldosterone production. These results indicate that, in contrast to microfilaments, which play an important role in spontaneous steroidogenesis, intermediate filaments are not required for basal corticosteroid secretion but are involved in the mechanism of action of angiotensin in frog adrenocortical cells.

Effects of TMB-8 and dantrolene on ACTH- and angiotensin-induced steroidogenesis by frog interrenal gland: evidence for a role of intracellular calcium in angiotensin action

The influence of intracellular calcium on the steroidogenic response of adrenocortical tissue to ACTH and angiotensin has been studied in the frog, using a perifusion system technique. The release of corticosterone, aldosterone and prostaglandins in the effluent medium was monitored by specific radioimmunoassays. TMB-8 and dantrolene, two potential blockers of calcium mobilization from intracellular pool(s), were tested. Dantrolene (5 X 10(-5) M) significantly reduced basal and angiotensin-induced corticosterone and aldosterone production but had little effect on ACTH-evoked steroid release. Conversely TMB-8 (10(-4) M) profoundly depressed spontaneous as well as ACTH- and angiotensin II-induced corticosteroid secretion, suggesting that this compound may affect not only calcium mobilization from the endoplasmic reticulum pool but also calcium influx. Adrenal glands perifused with both dantrolene and calcium-free medium showed no response to angiotensin II. Conversely, in calcium-free conditions and in the presence of dantrolene, angiotensin II still caused an increase in prostaglandin synthesis. Taken together, these results indicate that 1) dantrolene is a more specific agent than TMB-8 in inhibiting calcium mobilization from intracellular pool(s); 2) ACTH increases corticosteroidogenesis without inducing mobilization of intracellular calcium; 3) angiotensin II stimulates both the efflux of calcium from the endoplasmic reticulum and the influx of calcium through the plasma membrane; 4) calcium is required after prostaglandin production in the steroidogenic response of frog interrenal gland to angiotensin II.

Localization of melanotropin-like peptides in the central nervous system of two insect species, the migratory locust, Locusta migratoria, and the fleshfly, Sarcophaga bullata

By use of well characterized antisera in the peroxidase-antiperoxidase method, we were able to demonstrate alpha MSH and beta MSH immunoreactive cells and nerve fibres within the nervous system of adults and larvae of Locusta migratoria and 3-, 5- and 8-day-old adult Sarcophaga bullata. In neither of these insect species, any immunoreaction was obtained with a gamma 3MSH-antiserum. Double immunohistochemical stainings revealed that alpha MSH-like and beta MSH-like substances are located in different cells. These cells show no immunoreactivity to a number of antisera against other POMC-derivatives (anti-beta lipotropin, anti beta endorphin, anti-ACTH1-24); thus they appear to contain alpha MSH- or beta MSH-like material in a specific way. The function of the immunologically detected peptides remains to be demonstrated. The distribution of the immunoreactive material suggests that, like in amphibians and other lower vertebrates, the synthesis or release of melanotropins might be under the influence of external stimuli. The present observations support the recently developed concept that even some of the smallest neuropeptides, the melanotropins, have been highly conserved during a long period of evolution.

Involvement of cycloheximide-sensitive mediators in the steroidogenic action of adrenocorticotropin and angiotensin II

The involvement of short-lived proteins in the steroidogenic action of corticotropic peptides has been investigated in vitro by means of a perifusion technique using frog adrenal glands. Graded concentrations of cycloheximide (10(-7) M to 10(-5) M) led to a dose-related inhibition of corticosterone and aldosterone production. The perifusion model gives detailed information on the kinetics of the inhibitory effect of cycloheximide. This effect was rapidly observed (the lag period was about 15 min), maximum inhibition being obtained 25 min after the end of administration of the protein synthesis inhibitor. Whatever the concentration of cycloheximide, corticosteroid output returned to basal values 2 h after the onset of cycloheximide infusion. Stimulation of steroidogenesis by ACTH and angiotensin II was totally inhibited by cycloheximide (10(-6) M) indicating that the synthesis of a labile protein was required for the adrenal response to corticotropic peptides. In addition, the stimulatory effect of cAMP and PGE1, which are considered to be the second messengers of ACTH and angiotensin II in amphibian interrenal gland, was blocked by cycloheximide. Taken together, these data suggest that a labile protein is involved in an early step of corticosteroid biosynthesis in the frog.

Effect of vinblastine, a potent antimicrotubular agent on steroid secretion by perifused frog adrenal glands

The role of microtubules in adrenal steroidogenesis was examined in vitro, using frog interrenal tissue. Adrenal dice from Rana ridibunda were perifused with amphibian culture medium and the effect of various antimicrotubular drugs was studied. The amounts of corticosterone and aldosterone released in the effluent perifusate were radioimmunoassayed using specific antisera. Administration of colchicine, nocodazole, and vinblastine (10(-5) M) did not affect spontaneous secretion of corticosterone and aldosterone. These results indicated that, in contrast to microfilaments which play an important role in spontaneous steroidogenesis, the microtubular system is not required for basal corticosteroid secretion. However, vinblastine (10(-5) M) was responsible for a marked decrease in ACTH-induced stimulation of corticosterone and aldosterone production. Conversely, vinblastine did not significantly alter the response of interrenal tissue to dibutyryl cAMP, forskolin and NaF, indicating that the microtubules are involved in an early step of ACTH action, namely at the level of the receptor subunit.

Interrenal function in larval Ambystoma tigrinum. II. Control of aldosterone secretion and electrolyte balance by ACTH

Renal clearance techniques were used to assess the role of ACTH on renal electrolyte transport in larval Ambystoma tigrinum. Radioimmunoassay was employed to evaluate changes in circulating aldosterone in these animals. Larvae were hypophysectomized and maintained for 1 week on either ACTH replacement therapy (50 ng/g) or sham injections prior to clearance measurements. Hypophysectomy significantly lowered plasma [Na+] (from 96 to 90 mM), plasma [K+] (from 6 to 4 mM), plasma aldosterone titer (from 157 to 36 pg/ml), fractional Na+ reabsorption (from 97 to 94%), and fractional K+ reabsorption (from 68 to 50%). ACTH replacement restored plasma [Na+] to 96 mM, aldosterone titer to 157 pg/ml, fractional Na+ reabsorption to 96%, and fractional K+ reabsorption to 75%. When steroid synthesis was blocked in a separate set of larvae; ACTH was unable to reverse the sodium depletion which results from adaptation to distilled water. This suggests that ACTH is not acting directly on Na+ transport but acts through a steroid like aldosterone. When larvae were injected intravenously with antialdosterone antibodies their fractional Na+ reabsorption decreased from 95 to 87%. We conclude, therefore, the ACTH works via interrenal steroids, such as aldosterone, to control renal electrolyte transport in this species.

Role of calcium in stimulus-secretion coupling on isolated frog interrenal gland

The influence of extracellular calcium concentration on the steroidogenic response to ACTH and to the angiotensin II analogue [Sar1-Val5]AII has been studied in the frog, using a perfusion system technique. The release of corticosterone and aldosterone in the effluent medium was measured by specific radioimmunoassays. In calcium-free medium the stimulatory effect of ACTH (10(-9) M) was completely abolished whereas the response to dbcAMP (5 mM) was unchanged indicating that the role of calcium takes place before the formation of cAMP. Conversely, in the absence of calcium, angiotensin II (10(-7) M) was still able to stimulate corticosterone and aldosterone production. Addition of Co2+ (4 mM), a calcium antagonist, to the perfusion medium, inhibited partially the response of adrenal tissue to ACTH, dbcAMP and angiotensin. The voltage-dependent calcium channel blocker verapamil (10(-6) induced a dose-related inhibition of the corticotropic effect of ACTH. At the higher dose (10(-4) M), verapamil totally inhibited the stimulation of corticosterone and aldosterone production induced by ACTH. By contrast, at the same dose it did not alter the stimulatory effect of forskolin (2.4 X 10(-7)M) on corticosterone output, but significantly diminished forskolin-induced aldosterone response. Similarly, angiotensin-stimulated corticosterone production was slightly inhibited by 10(-4) M verapamil, whereas aldosterone response to angiotensin was totally abolished, indicating that verapamil may act intracellularly to block the conversion of corticosterone to aldosterone. Taken together, these results indicate that, in amphibians extracellular calcium is essential for the action of ACTH, either for the binding of the hormone to its receptor and/or for the transduction of the information from hormone-receptor complex to the adenylate cyclase moiety and that the mechanism of action of angiotensin does not involve calcium uptake by adrenocortical cells.

Circadian variations in plasma osmolality, electrolytes, glucose, and cortisol in carp (Cyprinus carpio)

Male carps (Cyprinus carpio) of about 1.5 kg were used in all experiments performed in December and February. Blood was taken by heart-puncture within 1 min or less every 4 hr from different fishes during a 24-hr period to establish circadian rhythmicities of all parameters. The water temperature was 11-12 degrees. In December circadian variations could be calculated for cortisol, Na+ and plasma osmolality in partly fed carps and for cortisol, Ca2+, glucose, and plasma osmolality in food deprived animals. No difference in cortisol level, amplitude, or acrophase was present between both experiments but plasma Na+ and osmolality was more elevated when feeding. Also the acrophase of the osmolality rhythm differed between both groups. In February carps, cortisol levels were still comparable to December ones, but a 4 hr shift in acrophase had occurred (from +/- 02 hr to 06 hr). Levels of all other parameters also were comparable to December, except for glucose with only 1/5th of the December values. There was also a shift in acrophase present from the morning to around midnight. The level of cortisol in February carps acclimated to 18 degrees for 1 week was twice the one found in the 11 degrees group. At the same time a significant increase in amplitude and shift in acrophase to 22 hr was seen. Other parameters, except for glucose of which the level was significantly lower than in the 11 degrees group, remained unchanged. Also no correlation between the individual 24-hr data of all parameters could be found. It is therefore concluded that cortisol is not responsible for the observed circadian rhythmicities of Na+, Ca2+, glucose, or plasma osmolality.

In vitro study of frog (Rana ridibunda Pallas) interrenal function by use of a simplified perifusion system. VIII. Structure-activity relationship of synthetic ACTH fragments and gamma-MSH

The present study was undertaken to determine the structure-activity relationships of ACTH analogs on corticosteroid production by frog adrenal gland. Rana ridibunda interrenal dice were perifused with amphibian culture medium for 10 hr. Corticosterone and aldosterone concentrations were measured in the effluent perifusate using sensitive and specific radioimmunoassay methods. Perifusion of interrenal fragments with increasing concentrations of synthetic human ACTH 1-39 (ranging from 6.25 X 10(-11) to 10(-9) M) led to a linear log-dose increase in both corticosterone and aldosterone secretion. Thus, this model made it possible to compare the steroidogenic potency of several ACTH analogs. Synthetic alpha-MSH and its des-N alpha-acetyl derivative were found to be approximately equipotent, and 5 X 10(3) times less active than authentic ACTH. The short-chain analog ACTH 1-10 was 2 X 10(4) times less potent than ACTH whereas ACTH 4-10 was totally inactive. A fragment of the N-terminal region of the proopiomelanocortin molecule, gamma 3-MSH, caused a dose-related stimulation of steroid secretion. However, in contrast to what has been observed in the rat, gamma 3-MSH did not potentiate the corticotropic action of ACTH on frog interrenal gland. Since processing of proopiomelanocortin in frog intermediate lobe generates high amounts of alpha-MSH and des-N alpha-acetyl alpha-MSH, these results suggest that in amphibians, several peptides other than ACTH may be involved in the control of corticosteroidogenesis.

Development of a simplified perifusion system of rat zona glomerulosa. Effect of cytochalasin B on spontaneous and ACTH-stimulated corticosteroidogenesis

The aim of the present study was to develop a perifusion technique for rat adrenal glomerulosa slices as a model to study the kinetics of corticosteroid production in vitro. Perifusion of adrenal tissue with increasing concentration of ACTH (3.16 X 10(-12) to 10(-9) M) led to a dose-related stimulation of corticosterone and aldosterone secretion. Administration of cytochalasin B did not alter the basal secretion of corticosterone and aldosterone. In addition, cytochalasin B did not modify the response of glomerulosa tissue to ACTH. The results indicate that the perifusion model for glomerulosa fragments may provide valuable information, concerning the kinetics of steroid production and its regulation at the cellular level.

Role of prostacyclin on steroidogenesis by frog interrenal gland in vitro

The role of prostacyclin (PGI2) on amphibian adrenal steroidogenesis was studied in vitro in perifused interrenal fragments from adult male frogs. Exogenous PGI2 (3 X 10(-8) M to 3 X 10(-5) M) and, in a lesser extent, 6-keto-PGF1 alpha increased both corticosterone and aldosterone production in a dose-related manner. Short pulses (20 min) of 0.88 microM PGI2 administered at 90 min intervals within the same experiment did not induce any desensitization phenomenon. A prolonged administration (6 h) of PGI2 gave rise to an important increase in steroid production followed by a decline of corticosteroidogenesis. Indomethacin (IDM, 5 microM) induced a marked reduction of the spontaneous secretion of corticosteroid which confirmed the involvement of endogenous PGs in the process of corticosteroid biosynthesis. The IDM-induced blockade of corticosterone and aldosterone secretion was totally reversed by administration of exogenous PGI2 in our model. Angiotensin II (AII) induced a massive release of 6-keto-PGF1 alpha, the stable metabolite of PGI2. The increase of 6-keto-PGF1 alpha preceded the stimulation of corticosterone and aldosterone secretions. In contrast, the administration of ACTH did not modify the release of 6-keto-PGF1 alpha. These results indicate that PGI2 might be an important mediator of adrenal steroidogenesis in frog. They confirm that the corticosteroidogenic actions of ACTH and AII are mediated by different mechanisms.

In vitro studies on the release of cortisol from interrenal tissue in trout (Salmo gairdneri)--II. Action of changes in extracellular electrolytes

Secretion of cortisol by the interrenal tissue of the trout Salmo gairdneri was studied in vitro by a perifusion method in relation to the effects of electrolyte concentrations in the medium. An increase in osmotic pressure (produced by adding mannitol or NaCl) induced an immediate, but brief augmentation in cortisol release. Suppression of Na+ had no effect while its reintroduction in the medium led to stimulation of hormone release. By contrast, a sharp peak was obtained whenever Cl- concentration was dropped (by 50 mM fractions). These opposite effects of Na+ and Cl- when they vary independently of each other is interpreted with regard to osmoregulation and acid-base regulation. Raising K+ even to high levels (up to 20 mM) produced no change. The absence of Ca2+ had no obvious effect while its addition induced an immediate peak of cortisol release. In addition, external Ca2+ proved necessary for the action of ACTH to occur. These results establish that cortisol release in trout may be directly affected by changes in electrolyte concentrations in the extracellular space.

In vitro effect of cytochalasin B on adrenal steroidogenesis in frog

In order to examine the role of microfilaments in adrenal steroidogenesis, we have studied the effect of cytochalasin B on corticosteroid secretion by frog interrenal tissue in vitro. Perifusion of interrenal fragments with increasing concentrations of cytochalasin B (ranging from 10(-8) to 10(-4) M) led to a dose-related inhibition of corticosterone and aldosterone secretion. Immunohistochemical examination of adrenocortical fragments, using specific anti-actin antibodies, showed that cytochalasin B (5 X 10(-5) M) was responsible for the disappearance of the microfilament network. Administration of 2 consecutive doses of cytochalasin B (5 X 10(-5) M) was responsible for a reproducible and reversible inhibition of corticosteroid secretion. In addition, cytochalasin B (5 X 10(-5) M) totally inhibited the stimulatory effect of angiotensin II, prostaglandin E1 and VIP. It also induced a marked decrease in both ACTH- and dbcAMP-induced stimulation of corticosteroidogenesis. These data indicate that cytochalasin B, which blocked the effect of all adrenal stimulating factors tested, interferes with a late step in the common pathway involved in the response of frog adrenocortical cells to all corticotropic stimuli.

Elevation of plasma glucose, alanine, and urea levels by mammalian ACTH in the American bullfrog (Rana catesbeiana)

The effects of a single infusion of mammalian ACTH on plasma glucose, alanine, urea, and lactate were determined in the American bullfrog (Rana catesbeiana). The ACTH (10 U/250 g body wt) was administered, and serial blood samples were collected via a nonocclusive cannula chronically placed in the right truncus arteriosus. Plasma metabolite levels were estimated by standard enzymatic techniques. The plasma metabolites declined following the surgery to levels that were relatively stable by postoperative Day 2. The levels did not vary significantly for the remainder of the 3- or 4-day pretreatment period and in the control bullfrogs during the 48-hr experiments. Plasma glucose levels were essentially unchanged from the time-zero levels at 6 hr following ACTH infusion. Plasma glucose levels subsequently increased to levels that were approximately 24% greater than the control levels by 24 hr and then declined to near control levels by 48 hr. Plasma alanine increased to levels that were approximately 60% greater than the control levels by 12 hr after ACTH treatment and returned to essentially the time-zero levels by 24 hr. Plasma urea rose to levels that were approximately 110% greater than the control levels by 45 min after ACTH infusion, but urea returned to essentially the time-zero levels by 1.5 through 3 hr. Plasma urea increased again to levels that were approximately 90% greater than the control levels by 6 hr and returned to essentially the initial levels by 24 hr. Plasma lactate levels were not significantly influenced by ACTH treatment. The results suggest that a function of the bullfrog hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenocortical axis is to regulate gluconeogenesis from alanine, and probably other glucogenic amino acids.

Effect of calcium on corticosteroid secretion by isolated frog interrenal gland

The direct effect of extracellular calcium concentrations on corticosteroidogenesis has been examined in the frog, using a perifusion system technique. The release of corticosterone and aldosterone in the effluent medium was monitored by specific radioimmunoassays. Increasing concentrations of Ca2+ (from 2 to 15 mM) gave rise to a dose-related stimulation of corticosteroid release, whereas the increment of either Na+ or K+ concentrations did not modify steroid production. Iterative administration of a moderate concentration of calcium (6 mM) led to a reproducible stimulation of steroid secretion whereas the same dose infused during 6 h induced a transient rise in corticosteroid secretion followed by a plateau. The direct effect of Ca2+ on steroidogenesis was confirmed by the dose-dependent stimulation of steroid secretion induced by the calcium ionophore A 23187. Perifusion with a calcium-free medium or blockade of Ca2+ channels by 4 mM Co2+ both resulted in a significant decrease in steroid production. Conversely, the administration of verapamil (up to 10(-4) M) did not affect steroidogenesis. These results provide evidence that extracellular calcium ions are required for basal production of corticosteroids in amphibians and that Ca2+ influx does not occur through voltage-dependent channels. Since, in the frog, blood Ca2+ concentrations vary in a rather large range, these results suggest that circulating Ca2+ levels may regulate corticosteroid production in these animals.

Relative inhibitory potency of five mineralocorticoid antagonists on aldosterone biosynthesis in vitro

Spirolactones are mineralocorticoid antagonists which bind to aldosterone receptors in the distal nephron. During the last decade, several antimineralocorticoids, which are more potent than spironolactone in competing for mineralocorticoid receptors have been developed. In the present study, we have compared the direct activity of spironolactone and four related compounds: prorénone (SC 23133), SC 19886, SC 26304 and its carboxylic analog SC 27169, on aldosterone biosynthesis. Two of them (SC 26304 and its carboxylic analog SC 27169) had no effect on adrenal steroidogenesis, even at concentrations up to 10(-3)M. Spironolactone and prorenone (SC 23133) induced a marked but reversible inhibition of aldosterone biosynthesis. SC 19886 totally inhibited aldosterone production and the activity of this compound lasted for more than 7 hours. In addition, SC 19886 and prorenone (SC 23133) totally suppressed ACTH and angiotensin II-induced stimulation of aldosterone biosynthesis whereas SC 27169 was unable to block adrenal response to these corticotropic hormones. Our results suggest that compounds such as prorenone (SC 23133), SC 19886 and spironolactone, which are potent inhibitors of aldosterone biosynthesis could be more active in the treatment of primary aldosteronism than those antimineralocorticoids which are devoid of action on aldosterone biosynthesis.

Lack of effect of dexamethasone on corticosteroid production in the amphibian

Previous studies have demonstrated the presence of glucocorticoid receptors in the adrenal gland and suggested a direct inhibitory effect of glucocorticoids on the adrenal cortex. The present study was designed to investigate the possibility that dexamethasone could inhibit adrenal steroidogenesis in amphibia. For this study, we have applied a well-defined perifusion model, using interrenal fragments from frogs (Rana ridibunda). The amounts of corticosterone and aldosterone released in the effluent perifusate were radioimmunoassayed by means of specific antisera which did not cross-react with dexamethasone. Administration of dexamethasone (10(-6) and 10(-5M) did not significantly alter the basal secretion of corticosterone and aldosterone. In addition, dexamethasone (10(-5)M) did not modify the response of the interrenal gland to graded doses of ACTH. Finally dexamethasone did not inhibit the stimulation of corticosterone and aldosterone production induced by a single infusion of the angiotensin II analogue [Sar1-Val5] AII. From these results, it is concluded that in amphibia, chronic dexamethasone administration does not exert a direct suppressive effect on adrenal secretion.

In vitro study of frog (Rana ridibunda Pallas) interrenal function by use of a simplified perifusion system. VII. Lack of effect of somatostatin on angiotensin-induced corticosteroid production

Somatostatin (SRIF), the somatotropin release inhibiting factor of the hypothalamus, has been reported to inhibit the production of angiotensin II (AII)-stimulated aldosterone in the rat adrenal glomerulosa cells. Since the interrenal of the frog is the homolog of mammalian adrenal zona glomerulosa, the effect of synthetic SRIF on perifused dice of Rana ridibunda was tested. Graded doses of SRIF did not modify the spontaneous production of corticosterone and aldosterone. The highest concentration of SRIF (10(-5) M) did not alter the stimulatory effect of the AII agonist [Sar1-Val5] AII upon corticosteroidogenesis. Thus, in apparent contradiction to recent findings in mammals, SRIF did not alter the effect of AII in the frog interrenal cell.

The effect of the antimineralocorticoid RU 28318 on aldosterone biosynthesis in vitro

The effect of RU 28318, a specific and highly potent aldosterone antagonist on mineralocorticoid biosynthesis has been studied using a new in vitro model which combined three original features: (1) a very specific radioimmunoassay for aldosterone (2) a simplified perifusion system and (3) frog interrenal tissue which spontaneously produces high amounts of aldosterone. A dose-related inhibition of aldosterone production was observed for doses ranging from 10(-5) to 10(-3) M of RU 28318. The intermediate dose of 10(-4) M caused 71% inhibition of aldosterone production. Long term infusion of RU 28318 for 8 h led to a significant, stable and reversible inhibition of aldosterone production. In addition, we provide evidence that RU 28318 is capable of blocking the stimulation of aldosterone secretion induced by synthetic ACTH or by angiotensin II analogue. The present results demonstrate that RU 28318 is responsible for a significant and reversible inhibition of spontaneous, ACTH-induced and angiotensin II-induced aldosterone biosynthesis in vitro.