Inhibition of pituitary adenylate cyclase by atrial natriuretic factor

Natriuretic peptide receptor-C agonist attenuates the expression of cell cycle proteins and proliferation of vascular smooth muscle cells from spontaneously hypertensive rats: role of Gi proteins and MAPkinase/PI3kinase signaling

Vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC) from spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) exhibit hyperproliferation and overexpression of cell cycle proteins. We earlier showed that small peptide fragments of cytoplasmic domain of natriuretic receptor-C (NPR-C) attenuate vasoactive peptide-induced hyperproliferation of VSMC. The present study investigated if C-ANP_4–23, a specific agonist of NPR-C, could attanuate the hyperproliferation of VSMC from SHR by inhibiting the overexpression of cell cycle proteins and examine the underlying signaling pathways contributing to this inhibition. The proliferation of VSMC was determined by [³H] thymidine incorporation and the expression of proteins was determined by Western blotting. The hyperproliferation of VSMC from SHR and overexpression of cyclin D1,cyclin A, cyclin E, cyclin-dependent kinase 2 (cdk2), phosphorylated retinoblastoma protein (pRb), Giα proteins and enhanced phosphorylation of ERK1/2 and AKT exhibited by VSMC from SHR were attenuated by C-ANP_4–23 to control levels. In addition, in vivo treatment of SHR with C-ANP_4–23 also attenuated the enhanced proliferation of VSMC. Furthemore, PD98059, wortmannin and pertussis toxin, the inhibitors of MAP kinase, PI3kinase and Giα proteins respectively, also attenuated the hyperproliferation of VSMC from SHR and overexpression of cell cycle proteins to control levels. These results indicate that NPR-C activation by C-ANP_4–23 attenuates the enhanced levels of cell cycle proteins through the inhibition of enhanced expression of Giα proteins and enhanced activation of MAPkinase/PI3kinase and results in the attenuation of hyperproliferation of VSMC from SHR. It may be suggested that C-ANP_4–23 could be used as a therapeutic agent in the treatment of vascular complications associated with hypertension, atherosclerosis and restenosis.

Small cytoplasmic domain peptides of natriuretic peptide receptor-C attenuate cell proliferation through Gialpha protein/MAP kinase/PI3-kinase/AKT pathways

The present studies were undertaken to investigate the effect of C-atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP)(4-23) and several peptide fragments containing 12 amino acids from different regions of the cytoplasmic domain of natriuretic peptide receptor (NPR)-C on cell proliferation in the absence or presence of angiotensin (ANG) II, endothelin (ET)-1, and arginine vasopressin (AVP) in A-10 vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC). The peptide fragments used have either complete G(i) activator sequences K(461)-H(472) (peptide 1) and H(481)-H(492) (peptide 3) or partial G(i) activator sequences R(469)-K(480) (peptide 2) and I(465)-H(472) (peptide Y) with truncated COOH or NH(2) terminus, respectively. The other peptide used had no structural specificity (Q(473)-K(480), peptide X) or was the scrambled peptide control for peptide 1 (peptide Z). ANG II, ET-1 and AVP significantly stimulated DNA synthesis in these cells as determined by [(3)H]thymidine incorporation that was inhibited by peptides 1, 2, and 3 and not by peptides X, Y, and Z in a concentration-dependent manner, with an apparent K(i) between 1 and 10 nM. In addition, C-ANP(4-23), which interacts with NPR-C, also inhibited DNA synthesis stimulated by vasoactive peptides; however, the inhibition elicited by C-ANP(4-23) was not additive with the inhibition elicited by peptide 1. On the other hand, basal DNA synthesis in these cells was not inhibited by C-ANP(4-23) or the peptide fragments. Furthermore, vasoactive peptide-induced stimulation of DNA synthesis was inhibited by PD-98059 and wortmannin, and this inhibition was potentiated by peptide 1. In addition, peptide 1 also inhibited vasoactive peptide-induced phosphorylation of ERK1/2 and AKT and enhanced expression of G(i)alpha proteins. These data suggest that C-ANP(4-23) and small peptide fragments containing 12 amino acids irrespective of the region of the cytoplasmic domain of NPR-C inhibit proliferative responses of vasoactive peptides through G(i)alpha protein and MAP kinase/phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/AKT pathways.

Natriuretic peptide receptor-C signaling and regulation

The natriuretic peptides (NP) are a family of three polypeptide hormones termed atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP), brain natriuretic peptide (BNP), and C-type natriuretic peptide (CNP). ANP regulates a variety of physiological parameters by interacting with its receptors present on the plasma membrane. These are of three subtypes NPR-A, NPR-B, and NPR-C. NPR-A and NPR-B are guanylyl cyclase receptors, whereas NPR-C is non-guanylyl cyclase receptor and is coupled to adenylyl cyclase inhibition or phospholipase C activation through inhibitory guanine nucleotide regulatory protein (Gi). ANP, BNP, CNP, as well as C-ANP(4-23), a ring deleted peptide that specifically interacts with NPR-C receptor inhibit adenylyl cyclase activity through Gi protein. Unlike other G-protein-coupled receptors, NPR-C receptors have a single transmembrane domain and a short cytoplasmic domain of 37 amino acids, which has a structural specificity like those of other single transmembrane domain receptors. A 37 amino acid cytoplasmic peptide is sufficient to inhibit adenylyl cyclase activity with an apparent Ki similar to that of ANP(99-126) or C-ANP(4-23). In addition, C-ANP(4-23) also stimulates phosphatidyl inositol (PI) turnover in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC) which is attenuated by dbcAMP and cAMP-stimulatory agonists, suggesting that NPR-C receptor-mediated inhibition of adenylyl cyclase and resultant decreased levels of cAMP may be responsible for NPR-C-mediated stimulation of PI turnover. Furthermore, the activation of NPR-C receptor by C-ANP(4-23) and CNP inhibits the mitogen-activated protein kinase activity stimulated by endothelin-3, platelet-derived growth factor, phorbol-12 myristate 13-acetate, suggesting that NPR-C receptor might also be coupled to other signal transduction system or that there may be an interaction of the NPR-C receptor and some other signaling pathways. In this review article, NPR-C receptor coupling to different signaling pathways and their regulation will be discussed.

Single Transmembrane Spanning Heterotrimeric G Protein-Coupled Receptors and Their Signaling Cascades

Heptahelical of serpentine receptors such as the adrenergic receptors are well known to mediate their actions via heterotrimeric GTP-binding proteins. Likewise, receptors that traverse the cell membrane once have been shown to mediate their biological actions by activating several different mechanisms including stimulation of their intrinsic tyrosine kinase activities or the kinase activities of other proteins. Some of these single transmembrane receptors have an intrinsic guanylyl cyclase activity and can stimulate the cyclic GMP second messenger system; however, over the last few years, several studies have shown the involvement of heterotrimeric GTP-binding proteins in mediating signals that eventually culminate in the biological actions of single transmembrane spanning receptors and proteins. These receptors include the receptor tyrosine kinases that mediate the actions of growth factors such as epidermal growth factor, insulin, insulin-like growth factor as well as receptors for atrial natiuretic hormone or the zona pellucida protein (ZP3) and integrins. In this review, the significance of the coupling of the single transmembrane spanning receptors to G proteins has been highlighted by providing several examples of the concept that signaling via these receptors may involve the activation of multiple signaling cascades.

Atrial natriuretic peptide-C receptor-induced attenuation of adenylyl cyclase signaling activates phosphatidylinositol turnover in A10 vascular smooth muscle cells

Atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP)-C receptor activation has been shown to inhibit adenylyl cyclase (AC) activity as well as to stimulate phospholipase C (PLC) signaling pathways. The present studies were undertaken to investigate whether ANP-C receptor-mediated decreased cAMP levels contribute to the activation of PLC signaling. C-ANP(4-23) [des(Gln(18),Ser(19), Glu(20),Leu(21),Gly(22))ANP(4-23)-NH(2)], a ring-deleted peptide of ANP that interacts specifically with ANP-C receptor, stimulated inositol 1,4,5-tris-phosphate (IP(3)) production (PLC activity) in A10 vascular smooth muscle cells in a concentration- and time-dependent manner. The maximal stimulation observed was about 75% at 2 h of treatment, with an apparent EC(50) of about 20 to 30 nM. Pertussis toxin treatment of the cells completely abolished the C-ANP(4-23)-mediated stimulation of IP(3) production. Forskolin (FSK), a stimulator of adenylyl cyclase, dibutyryl cAMP (db cAMP), and isoproterenol (ISO), a beta-adrenergic agonist that stimulates adenylyl cyclase activity and cAMP levels, inhibited IP(3) production by about 35, 30, and 50%, respectively, whereas dideoxyadenosine (DDA), an inhibitor of adenylyl cyclase activity, and oxotremorine stimulated IP(3) production by about 90 and 80%, respectively, in these cells, suggesting a functional interaction between these two signaling pathways. Treatment of the cells with antisense oligonucleotide of ANP-C receptor that attenuated ANP-C receptor-mediated inhibition of adenylyl cyclase resulted in a complete attenuation of C-ANP(4-23)-induced stimulation of IP(3) formation, whereas FSK, db cAMP, and ISO-mediated decrease and oxotremorine and endothelin-1 (ET-1)-induced increase in IP(3) production was not affected by this treatment. Furthermore, C-ANP(4-23)-induced increase in IP(3) formation was significantly potentiated by DDA and inhibited by FSK and db cAMP, whereas ET-1-induced increase in IP(3) production was not affected by FSK. In addition, N-[2-(4-bromocinnamylamino)ethyl]-5-isoquinoline (H-89), an inhibitor of protein kinase A, completely abolished C-ANP(4-23) and not ET-1-induced stimulation of IP(3) production. These results indicate that ANP-C receptor activation by C-ANP(4-23) and resulting decrease in cAMP levels may be responsible for the activation of phosphatidylinositol (PI) turnover signaling, suggesting a cross-talk between ANP-C receptor-mediated adenylyl cyclase and PLC signaling pathways.

Modulation of ANP-C receptor signaling by arginine-vasopressin in A-10 vascular smooth muscle cells: role of protein kinase C

We have previously shown that pretreatment of A-10 vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC) with angiotensin II (Ang II) attenuated atrial natriuretic peptide receptor-C (ANP-C)-mediated inhibition of adenylyl cyclase without altering [125I]ANP binding. In the present studies, we have investigated the modulation of ANP-C receptor signaling by arginine-vasopressin (AVP). Pretreatment of A-10 VSMC with AVP for 24h resulted in a reduction in ANP receptor binding activity by about 50% (B(max); control cells, 22.9+/-2.5 fmol/mg protein, AVP-treated cells, 11.4+/-1.2 fmol/mg protein). In addition, the expression of ANP-C receptor as determined by immunoblotting was also decreased by about 50% by AVP treatment, which was prevented by GF109203X, an inhibitor of protein kinase C (PKC). The decreased expression of ANP-C receptor was reflected in an attenuation of ANP-C receptor-mediated inhibition of adenylyl cyclase. C-ANP(4-23) [des(Gln(18),Ser(19),Gln(20),Leu(21),Gly(22))ANP(4-23)-NH(2)], a ring deleted peptide of ANP that interacts specifically with ANP-C receptor, inhibited adenylyl cyclase activity by about 30% in control cells, which was completely attenuated in AVP-treated cells. This attenuated inhibition was significantly restored by GF 109203X. In addition, AVP treatment augmented the levels of Gialpha-2 and Gialpha-3 proteins; however, the Gi functions were completely attenuated. The increased expression of Gialpha proteins induced by AVP was inhibited by GF109203X as well as by actinomycin D treatments. In addition, AVP treatment also enhanced the expression of Gsalpha protein and Gsalpha-mediated stimulation of adenylyl cyclase by GTPgammaS, N-ethylcarboxamide adenosine (NECA), and forskolin (FSK), whereas the levels of Gbeta were not altered by AVP treatment. These results indicate that AVP-induced PKC signaling may be responsible for the down-regulation of ANP-C receptor that results in the attenuation of C-ANP(4-23)-mediated inhibition of adenylyl cyclase activity, and suggest a cross-talk between vasopressin V(1) and ANP-C receptor-mediated signaling pathways.

Modulation of ANP-C receptor signaling by endothelin-1 in A-10 smooth muscle cells

We have previously shown that pretreatment of A-10 smooth muscle cells (SMC) with angiotensin II (Ang II) attenuated atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) receptor-C (ANP-C)-mediated inhibition of adenylyl cyclase without altering (125)I-ANP binding. In the present studies, we have investigated the modulation of ANP-C receptor signaling by endothelin-1 (ET-1). Pretreatment of A-10 SMC with ET-1 for 24 h attenuated the expression of ANP-C receptor by about 60% as determined by immunoblotting which was reflected in attenuation of ANP-C-receptor-mediated inhibition of adenylyl cyclase. C-ANP(4-23) [des(Gln(18),Ser(19),Gln(20),Leu(21),Gly(22))ANP(4-23)-NH(2)], a ring-deleted peptide of ANP that interacts specifically with ANP-C receptor, inhibited adenylyl cyclase activity in a concentration-dependent manner with an apparent K(i) of about 1 nM in control cells. The maximal inhibition observed was about 30% which was almost completely attenuated in ET-1-treated cells. In addition, Ang II- and oxotremorine-mediated inhibitions of adenylyl cyclase were also attenuated by ET-1 treatment; however, the expression of Gialpha-2 and Gialpha-3 proteins and not of Gsalpha and Gbeta proteins was augmented by such treatment. The increased expression of Gialpha-2 and Gialpha-3 proteins by ET-1 treatment was inhibited by actinomycin D treatment (RNA synthesis inhibitor). On the other hand, the Gsalpha-mediated effects of some agonists on adenylyl cyclase activity were significantly decreased by ET-1 treatment. These results suggest that ET-1-induced downregulation of ANP-C receptor and not the overexpression of Gi proteins may be responsible for the attenuation of C-ANP(4-23)-mediated inhibition of adenylyl cyclase activity. From these studies it may be suggested that the downregulation of ANP-C receptors by increased levels of endothelin in vivo may be one of the possible mechanisms for the pathophysiology of hypertension.

Cytoplasmic domain of natriuretic peptide receptor C constitutes Gi activator sequences that inhibit adenylyl cyclase activity

We have recently demonstrated that a 37-amino acid peptide corresponding to the cytoplasmic domain of the natriuretic peptide receptor C (NPR-C) inhibited adenylyl cyclase activity via pertussis toxin (PT)-sensitive G(i) protein. In the present studies, we have used seven different peptide fragments of the cytoplasmic domain of the NPR-C receptor with complete, partial, or no G(i) activator sequence to examine their effects on adenylyl cyclase activity. The peptides used were KKYRITIERRNH (peptide 1), RRNHQEESNIGK (peptide 2), HRELREDSIRSH (peptide 3), RRNHQEESNIGKHRELR (peptide 4), QEESNIGK (peptide X), ITIERRNH (peptide Y), and ITIYKKRRNHRE (peptide Z). Peptides 1, 3, and 4 have complete G(i) activator sequences, whereas peptides 2 and Y have partial G(i) activator sequences with truncated carboxyl or amino terminus, respectively. Peptide X has no structural specificity, whereas peptide Z is the scrambled peptide control for peptide 1. Peptides 1, 3, and 4 inhibited adenylyl cyclase activity in a concentration-dependent manner with apparent K(i) between 0.1 and 1 nm; however, peptide 2 inhibited adenylyl cyclase activity with a higher K(i) of about 10 nm, and peptides X, Y, and Z were unable to inhibit adenylyl cyclase activity. The maximal inhibitions observed were between 30 and 40%. The inhibition of adenylyl cyclase activity by peptides 1-4 was absolutely dependent on the presence of guanine nucleotides and was completely attenuated by PT treatment. In addition, the stimulatory effects of isoproterenol, glucagon, and forskolin on adenylyl cyclase activity were inhibited to different degrees by these peptides. These results suggest that the small peptide fragments of the cytoplasmic domain of the NPR-C receptor containing 12 or 17 amino acids were sufficient to inhibit adenylyl cyclase activity through a PT-sensitive G(i) protein. The peptides having complete structural specificity of G(i) activator sequences at both amino and carboxyl termini were more potent to inhibit adenylyl cyclase activity as compared with the peptides having a truncated carboxyl terminus, whereas the truncation of the amino-terminal motif completely attenuates adenylyl cyclase inhibition.

Characterisation of the effects of natriuretic peptides upon ACTH secretion from the mouse pituitary

The involvement of natriuretic peptides in the regulation of ACTH secretion in mice hemi-pituitary preparations was investigated. Atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP), brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) and C-type natriuretic peptide (CNP) all inhibited CRF (10(-9) M)-evoked ACTH secretion over a concentration range of 10(-12)-10(-10) M and also stimulated cyclic GMP accumulation over a concentration range of 10 (-8)-10(-5) M. CNP was the most effective both in the inhibition of ACTH secretion and in the stimulation of cyclic GMP accumulation. Coincubation of hemi-pituitaries with 8bromo-cyclic GMP (10(-4) M) completely inhibited CRF (10(-9) M)-evoked ACTH secretion. Northern blot analysis revealed that all three major isoforms of the natriuretic peptide receptors are expressed in the mouse pituitary. These results demonstrate that natriuretic peptides do inhibit CRF-stimulated ACTH secretion from mouse pituitary preparations. A role for cGMP in mediating this effect on hormone secretion is indicated but the discrepancy between the efficacies of natriuretic peptides in inhibiting the secretory response and stimulating cyclic GMP accumulation suggest a more complicated stimulus-secretion coupling pathway is in operation.

Higher proportions of type C than of types A and B natriuretic peptide receptors exist in the rat ciliary body

We investigate the interaction of atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) and C-type natriuretic peptide (CNP) with their receptors (NPRA, NPRB and NPRC), as well as the proportion and localization of those receptors in the rat ciliary body. Binding assays and affinity cross-linking experiments demonstrated the presence of the NPRC receptor type. However, the three natriuretic peptides stimulate the guanylate cyclase activity in the ciliary body membranes suggesting the presence of the NPRA and NPRB receptor type. Microautoradiographic data show that the NPRs are localized in the whole ciliary body. Our results indicated that NPRC is the most prominent receptor type in this tissue.

Atrial natriuretic peptide and arginine-vasopressin secretion in patients with active renal stone disease

The pathogenesis of active renal stone disease (ARSD) is still not fully elucidated. In the present study the role of atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) and arginine-vasopressin (AVP) as potential pathogenetic factors in ARSD were examined. Thirty patients with ARSD and 21 healthy subjects (HS) were examined both under bed rest (BR) and head-out water immersion (WI) conditions. Serum concentrations of electrolytes (Na, Ca, Mg), ANP and AVP were assessed before (0'), and after 60 and 120 minutes of BR or WI, respectively. Urinary excretions of Na, Ca, Mg, and oxalates were also estimated during BR and WI. Patients with ARSD showed higher basal plasma levels of ANP and a greater response of ANP secretion, but a lower suppression of plasma AVP to WI induced hypervolaemia as compared with the controls. In addition, in patients with ARSD the physiological relationship between plasma AVP concentration and urinary excretion of Ca and Mg (positive correlation), between plasma ANP level and urinary excretion of Ca and Mg (negative correlation), and between plasma ANP and AVP concentration (negative correlation), respectively, were absent. In addition, patients with ARSD showed a positive correlation between plasma ANP and urinary oxalate excretion. From the results obtained in this study we conclude that both AVP and ANP may be involved in the pathogenesis of ARSD.

Atrial natriuretic peptide-C receptor and membrane signalling in hypertension

Atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) regulates a variety of physiological parameters, including the blood pressure and intravascular volume, by interacting with its receptors present on the plasma membrane. ANP receptors are of three subtypes: ANP-A, -B and -C receptors. ANP-A and ANP-B receptors are guanylyl cyclase receptors, whereas ANP-C receptors are coupled to adenylyl cyclase inhibition or phospholipase C activation through inhibitory guanine nucleotide-regulating protein. Unlike other G protein-coupled receptors, ANP-C receptors have a single transmembrane domain and a short cytoplasmic domain of 37 amino acids, the cytoplasmic domain has a structural specificity like those of other single-transmembrane-domain receptors and 37 amino-acid cytoplasmic domain peptide is able to exert is inhibitory effect on adenylyl cyclase. The activation of ANP-C receptor by C-ANP(4-23) (a ring-deleted peptide of ANP) and C-type natriuretic peptide inhibits the mitogen-activated protein kinase activity stimulated by endothelin-3, platelet-derived growth factor and phorbol-12 myristate 13-acetate. C-ANP also inhibits mitogen-induced stimulation of DNA synthesis, indicating that the ANP-C receptor plays a role in cell proliferation through an inhibition of mitogen-activated protein kinase and suggesting that the ANP-C receptor might also be coupled to other signal transduction mechanism(s) or that there might be an interaction of the ANP-C receptor with some other signalling pathways. ANP receptor binding is decreased in most organs in hypertensive subjects and hypertensive animals. This decrease is consistent with there being fewer guanylyl cyclase-coupled receptors in the kidney and vasculature and selective inhibition of the ANP-C receptor in the thymus and spleen. Platelet ANP-C receptors are decreased in number in hypertensive patients and spontaneously hypertensive rats. ANP-A, -B and -C receptors are decreased in number in deoxycorticosterone acetate-salt-treated kidneys and vasculature; however, the responsiveness of adenylyl cyclase to ANP is augmented in the vasculature and heart and is attenuated completely in platelets. These alterations in ANP receptor subtypes may be related to the pathophysiology of hypertension. Several hormones such as angiotensin II, ANP and catecholamines, the levels of which are increased in hypertension, downregulate or upregulate ANP-C receptors and ANP-C receptor-mediated inhibition of adenylyl cyclase. It can be suggested that the antihypertensive action of several types of drugs such as angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors, angiotensin type 1 receptor antagonists and beta2-adrenergic antagonists may partly be attributed to their ability to modulate the expression and function of the ANP-C receptor.

Localization of mRNA coding for the three subtypes of atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) receptors in rat anterior pituitary gland cells

Atrial Natriuretic Factor (ANF) action is mediated by highly selective and specific receptors. Three subtypes have been characterized and cloned: ANF receptor-A, -B and -C. These subtypes are all expressed in the anterior pituitary of the rat. In the present study, the mRNA for each subtype was detected by in situ hybridization. The amounts of ANFR-A and -B mRNA were found to be similar, and to be twice that of ANFR-C mRNA. At the ultrastructural level, the three types of ANFR mRNA were expressed in three anterior pituitary cell types, namely lactotrophs, corticotrophs, and gonadotrophs, identified by their hormonal content. No signal was revealed in somatotrophs or thyrotrophs. The different forms of mRNA were similar in terms of subcellular localization: in the cytoplasmic matrix and the nuclear euchromatin. These data indicate that the anterior pituitary is an important target tissue for ANF action.

Production and characterization of monoclonal antibodies against human natriuretic peptide receptor-A or -B

Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) against human natriuretic peptide receptor-A (NPR-A) or NPR-B were produced using NPR-expressing Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells and soluble chimeric NPRs consisting of the extracellular domain of each receptor fused to Fc region of human IgG. Three anti-NPR-A mAbs, designated as A144, A397 and A416, bound to human NPR-A but not to NPR-B, while an anti-NPR-B mAb B136 reacted with human NPR-B but not with NPR-A. Competition analysis with the anti-NPR-A mAbs revealed that two mAbs, A144 and A416, recognize an identical or the adjacent site of the receptor and that A397 is directed against another epitope. No anti-NPR-A mAb affected binding of atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) to NPR-A, while the anti-NPR-B mAb B136 inhibited binding of C-type natriuretic peptide (CNP) to NPR-B. Inhibition of the ligand-binding by B136 is specific in that the mAb showed no effect on the binding of ANP to NPR-A. B136 also blocked CNP-mediated intracellular cGMP accumulation in NPR-B-expressing cells. These results suggest that the region recognized by B136 may be related to the ligand-binding region of NPR-B. NPR-A- and NPR-B-expressing cells were selectively detected by immunostaining using the mAbs. These findings demonstrate that the mAbs will be useful to elucidate the role of the natriuretic peptides and their receptors in normal and disease states in humans [correction of human].

Effect of PT-treatment on ANP-mediated inhibition of adenylate cyclase and amylase release in rat parotid gland

Effects of pertussis toxin (PT) treatment on atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP)-mediated inhibition of adenylate cyclase and amylase release were investigated in rat parotid gland. Adenylate cyclase activity stimulated by GTP gamma S in PT-treated membranes was much larger than that in normal membranes. ANP dose-dependently inhibited adenylate cyclase stimulated by GTP gamma S in control rat parotid membranes, however in membranes prepared from PT-injected (in vivo) rat parotid gland, ANP did not inhibit adenylate cyclase. ANP(10(-7)M) inhibited cAMP accumulation stimulated by forskolin (10(-6)M) in control rat parotid acinar cells by about 34%, however, in PT-treated cells, the inhibitory effect of ANP was attenuated completely. In control cells amylase release stimulated by isoproterenol (10(-6)M) and forskolin (10(-6)M) were also depressed by ANP (10(-7)M) by 27 and 30% respectively. The inhibitory response of ANP on amylase release was completely attenuated by PT-treatment. Gi was detected as a ADP-ribosylated 41-KDa protein by incubation of parotid membranes with PT and [alpha-32P]NAD. In rat parotid gland, these results suggested that ANP mediates adenylate cyclase/cAMP system and consequently reduces amylase release through ANP-C receptor coupled to Gi.

Natriuresis in conscious dogs caused by increased carotid [Na+] during angiotensin II and aldosterone blockade

The renal response to a selective increase in the Na+ concentration of the blood perfusing the central nervous system was investigated in conscious dogs treated with the converting enzyme inhibitor enalaprilat and the aldosterone antagonist canrenoate. In split-infusion experiments the plasma [Na+] of carotid blood was increased (approx. 6 mM) by bilateral infusion of hypertonic NaC1. Concomitantly distilled water was infused into the v. cava making the sum of the infusions isotonic. In control experiments isotonic saline was infused at identical rates into all three catheters. Na+ excretion increased markedly in both series, 103 +/- 14 to 678 +/- 84 mumol min-1 during split-infusion and 90 +2- 14 to 496 +/- 74 mumol min-1 during the isotonic volume expansion. Peak rate of excretion, peak fractional sodium excretion, and cumulative sodium excretion were all significantly higher (P < 0.05) during split-infusion than during control experiments. Plasma vasopressin increased only during split-infusion (0.68 +/- 0.11 to 2.4 +/- 0.8 pg ml-1) while the increases in plasma atrial natriuretic peptide were similar in the two series. Urinary excretion of urodilatin (ANP95-126) increased significantly more during split-infusion (46 +/- 11 to 152 +/- 28 fmol min-1) than during the isotonic volume expansion (45 +/- 14 to 84 +/- 16 fmol min-1) (P < 0.05). It is concluded that the natriuretic mechanisms activated by a selective increase in the Na+ concentration of carotid blood and associated with increased excretion of urodilatin cannot be eliminated by blockade of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system.

Characterization of natriuretic peptide receptor subtypes in the AtT-20 pituitary tumour cell line

Receptors for the natriuretic peptide family have been characterized in the adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH)-secreting AtT-20 pituitary tumour cell line. Northern blot analysis detected mRNA transcripts for the guanylate cyclase-linked GC-B receptor subtype. There was no evidence for the expression of either guanylate cyclase-linked GC-A receptor or atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP)-C (clearance) receptor mRNAs. Cyclic GMP production in AtT-20 cells was stimulated up to 200-fold by C-type natriuretic peptide (CNP), which was 10- and 20 times as effective as equivalent concentrations of brain natriuretic peptide and ANP respectively. Cyclic GMP dose-response curves to CNP failed to show any signs of saturation even at concentrations up to 30 microM, indicating a relatively low affinity of CNP for the GC-B receptor. Although CNP induced large stimulations in cyclic GMP production, specific binding of [125I-Tyr0]CNP could not be demonstrated in AtT-20 cells. The absence of specific binding with this radiolabelled analogue is possibly due to a reduced affinity for the GC-B receptor, as CNP analogues with N-terminal modifications such as [Tyr0]CNP and [127I-Tyr0]CNP exhibited reduced abilities to stimulate cyclic GMP production in these cells. Despite elevating cyclic GMP levels, CNP had no effect on basal or corticotrophin-releasing factor-stimulating ACTH release from the cells. These results show that the guanylate cyclase-coupled GC-B receptor is the only natriuretic peptide receptor subtype expressed in AtT-20 cells. Although CNP can markedly stimulate cyclic GMP production in these cells, there is incomplete expression of the normal natriuretic peptide-induced inhibitory pathway of ACTH secretion at some point distal to the production of cyclic GMP.

Differential regulation of natriuretic peptide receptor messenger RNAs during the development of cardiac hypertrophy in the rat

The heart expresses the three natriuretic peptide receptors (NPR), namely NPR-A, NPR-B, and NPR-C. We have examined the temporal relationship between the expression of mRNA transcripts for atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) and brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) and their receptors in the heart during the development of cardiac hypertrophy in the aortovenocaval fistula rat. Messenger RNAs were measured by cDNA amplification. Progressive cardiac hypertrophy was accompanied by increased ANP mRNA prevalence throughout the heart and increased BNP mRNA in the left atrium. The most striking observation was the gradual disappearance of NPR-C transcripts (the putative "clearance" receptor) in all chambers; this was in marked contrast to the increase in mRNA levels for NPR-A and NPR-B (the guanylyl cyclase-linked receptors). Our observations have important therapeutic implications if the transcript changes are mirrored at the receptor protein level because (a) the apparent down-regulation of NPR-C may enhance the local action of natriuretic peptides on the heart, and (b) the loss of NPR-C, particularly if it is widespread, may reduce the rate of elimination of the natriuretic peptides, restricting the therapeutic potential of specific NPR-C ligands designed to reduce peptide clearance.

Natriuretic peptide receptor mRNAs in the rat and human heart

Functional studies indicate that atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP), a member of the natriuretic peptide family, has direct effects on cardiac muscle cells. However, conventional ligand-binding studies designed to establish the presence of natriuretic peptide-binding sites in the heart have yielded conflicting results. There are discrepancies also between the latter and the receptor distribution predicted from the pattern of the mRNA transcripts localized by in situ hybridization. Here we have employed the technique of cDNA amplification with the polymerase chain reaction to confirm the presence of natriuretic peptide A, B, and C receptor mRNAs in rat and human cardiac tissue. In the rat heart, the distribution of the A and B receptor transcripts appears to be relatively homogeneous; in contrast, the C type mRNA is concentrated principally in the atria, with no difference between the left and right sides of the heart. A and B receptor DNA products were obtained after amplification of left, but not right, ventricular cDNA from the heart of a 16-yr-old male with cystic fibrosis; the yield of C receptor DNA was similar for both ventricles. If these mRNA transcripts are translated into functional receptors in the rat and human heart, ANP and the other natriuretic peptides may have direct effects on cardiac function, including regulation of natriuretic peptide release via a short feedback loop, modulation of contractility of the heart, or activation of cardiac reflexes.

Characterization of ANF-R2 receptor-mediated inhibition of adenylate cyclase

We have characterized the ANF-R2 receptor-mediated inhibition of adenylate cyclase with respect to its modulation by several regulators. ANF (99-126) inhibits adenylate cyclase activity only in the presence of guanine nucleotides. The maximal inhibition (approximately 45%) was observed in the presence of 10-30 microM GTP gamma S, and at higher concentrations, the inhibitory effect of ANF was completely abolished. ANF-mediated inhibition was not dependent on the presence of monovalent cations, however Na+ enhanced the degree of inhibition by about 60%, whereas K+ and Li+ suppressed the extent of inhibition by about 50%. On the other hand, divalent cation, such as Mn2+ decreased the degree of inhibition in a concentration dependent manner, with an apparent Ki of about 0.7 mM, and at 2 mM; the inhibition was completely abolished. In addition, proteolytic digestion of the membranes with trypsin (40 ng/ml) resulted in the attenuation of ANF-mediated inhibition of adenylate cyclase. Other membrane disrupting agents such as neuraminidase and phospholipase A2 treatments also inhibited completely, the ANF-mediated inhibition of enzyme activity. N-Ethylmaleimide (NEM), phorbol ester and Ca(2+)-phospholipid dependent protein kinase (C-kinase) which have been shown to interact with inhibitory guanine nucleotide regulating protein (Gi) also resulted in the attenuation of ANF-mediated inhibition of adenylate cyclase activity. These results indicate that in addition to the Gi, the phospholipids and glycoproteins may also play an important role in the expression of ANF-R2 receptor-mediated inhibition of adenylate cyclase.

Atrial natriuretic factor inhibits the CRH-stimulated secretion of ACTH and cortisol in man

Corticotrophic secretion of ACTH is stimulated by corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) and arginine vasopressin (AVP), and suppressed by glucocorticoids. In vitro and preclinical studies suggest that atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) may be a peptidergic inhibitor of pituitary-adrenocortical activity. The aim of this study was to elucidate a possible role of ANF as a modulator of ACTH release in humans. A bolus injection of 100 micrograms human CRH (hCRH) during a 30 min intravenous infusion of 5 micrograms/min human alpha atrial natriuretic factor (h alpha ANF) was administered at 19:00 to six healthy male volunteers. In comparison to saline, a blunted CRH-stimulated secretion of ACTH (mean maximum plasma level +/- SD 45 min after hCRH: saline 46.2 +/- 14.2 pg/ml, h alpha ANF 34.6 +/- 13.8 pg/ml, p-value = 0.007) and a delayed rise (10 min) in cortisol were detected. The maximum plasma cortisol levels remained nearly unchanged between saline and h alpha ANF administration (mean maximum plasma level +/- SD 60 min after hCRH: saline 182 +/- 26 ng/ml, h alpha ANF 166 +/- 54 ng/ml). No effects of h alpha ANF on basal cortisol levels were observed; in contrast, basal ACTH plasma levels were slightly reduced. Basal blood pressure and heart rate remained unaffected. In the control experiment, infusion of 3 IU AVP in the same experimental paradigm increased basal and stimulated ACTH and cortisol levels significantly in comparison to saline. These observations suggest that intravenously administered haANF inhibits the CRH-stimulated release of ACTH in man.

The presence of atrial-natriuretic-factor receptors of ANF-R2 subtype in rat platelets. Coupling to adenylate cyclase/cyclic AMP signal-transduction system

The effect of atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) on adenylate cyclase activity was studied in rat platelet membranes. ANF-(99-126)-, -(101-126)-, -(103-126)- and -(103-123)-peptide inhibited adenylate cyclase activity in a concentration-dependent manner with an order of potency of ANF-(103-123)-peptide greater than ANF-(99-126)-peptide greater than ANF-(101-126)-peptide greater than ANF-(103-126)-peptide. ANF-(103-123)-peptide and ANF-(99-126)-peptide inhibited the enzyme activity by about 50-55%, with an apparent Ki between 0.1 and 0.5 nM, and ANF-(101-126)-peptide inhibited the enzyme activity by about 35%, with an apparent Ki between 1 and 3 nM. On the other hand, ANF-(103-126)-peptide was the least potent and inhibited the adenylate cyclase activity by about 30% (Ki approximately 10 nM). The inhibitory effect of ANF on adenylate cyclase was also dependent on the presence of guanine nucleotides and was attenuated by amiloride and pertussis toxin. The stimulatory effects of various agonists such as N-ethylcarboxamideadenosine, prostaglandin E1, isoprenaline and forskolin on adenylate cyclase were also inhibited by ANF to various extents; however, the stimulations were not completely abolished. In addition, 125I-labelled ANF-(99-126)-peptide bound specifically to rat platelet membranes. The binding of 125I-ANF was competitively inhibited in a concentration-dependent manner by the unlabelled peptides which were used for adenylate cyclase inhibition. ANF-(103-123)-peptide, ANF-(99-126)-peptide and ANF-(101-126)-peptide were almost equipotent [IC50 (median inhibitory concentration) = 0.1-1 nM], and ANF-(103-126)-peptide was the least potent (IC50 approximately 10 nM). Scatchard analysis of the data revealed the presence of a single class of binding sites of high affinity (Kd approximately 120 pM). Affinity cross-linking of 125I-ANF-(99-126)-peptide to its binding sites in rat platelet membranes and analysis by SDS/PAGE followed by autoradiography showed a predominant labelling of a protein band with an apparent Mr of 66,000. These data indicate the presence of only ANF-R2 (low-Mr) receptors in platelets and suggest that these receptors may be coupled to the adenylate cyclase system.

Guanylyl cyclase-linked receptors

The guanylyl cyclase receptor family contains members that exist in both the particulate and soluble fractions of cell homogenates. Based on cloning studies, proteins with guanylyl cyclase activity contain a single transmembrane domain, or exist as heterodimers with no apparent transmembrane domains. The members containing the single transmembrane domain appear to act as cell surface receptors for peptides such as natriuretic peptides and bacterial heat-stable enterotoxins, while the heterodimeric forms are activated by nitric oxide. The concentrations of the intracellular messenger, cyclic GMP, then, are regulated by multiple primary signaling molecules, all of which appear to bind directly to the guanylyl cyclase enzyme.

Atriopeptins and nitroprusside provoke opposite changes in cGMP and cAMP levels in human macrophages

Atrial natriuretic factor (ANF, 10(-7) M) and, even more potently, sodium nitroprusside (SNP, 10(-5)-10(-3) M) stimulated cGMP formation in human peritoneal macrophages. This suggests that the two forms of guanylate cyclase, the particulate form stimulated by ANF and the soluble form activated by SNP, coexist in this cell type. A fall in cAMP levels in parallel with the rise of cGMP levels provoked by ANF and SNP was noticed that was amplified by an increase in the concentration of the phosphodiesterase inhibitor, IBMX. Our finding that ANF, contrary to its action in other tissues, was unable to exert direct inhibitory effects on the adenylate cyclase activity in isolated macrophage membranes, together with the observation that SNP was able to mimic the effect of ANF on cAMP levels indicates that the cAMP-lowering effect of ANF is most likely mediated through the cGMP signal.

Atrial natriuretic peptide in the central nervous system of the rat

1. Studies of the presence of atrial natriuretic peptide immunoreactivity and receptor binding sites in the central nervous system have revealed unusual sites of interest. 2. As a result, numerous studies have appeared that indicate that brain atrial natriuretic peptide is implicated in the regulation of blood pressure, fluid and sodium balance, cerebral blood flow, brain microcirculation, blood-brain barrier function, and cerebrospinal fluid production. 3. Alteration of the atrial natriuretic peptide system in the brain could have important implications in hypertensive disease and disorders of water balance in the central nervous system.

Altered responsiveness of adenylate cyclase to adenosine and other agents in the myocardial sarcolemma and aorta of spontaneously-hypertensive rats

Adenylate cyclase activity was studied in the myocardial sarcolemma and aorta of spontaneously-hypertensive rats (SHR) and their respectively Wistar-Kyoto (WKY) controls. Basal enzyme activity was decreased in the SHR as compared to the WKY group. Adenylate cyclase stimulation by N-ethylcarboxamide adenosine (NECA) was significantly lower in the myocardial sarcolemma and aorta of SHR, and this decreased responsiveness was associated with a reduction in the Vmax. Other agonists, such as isoproterenol (ISO), epinephrine, dopamine (DA), and glucagon, also enhanced myocardial adenylate cyclase activity to various degrees in SHR and WKY, but stimulation (Vagonists/Vbasal) was always lower in the SHR. NaF and forskolin (FSK), which activate adenylate cyclase via receptor-independent mechanisms, augmented it in the myocardial sarcolemma of SHR to a lesser extent than in WKY. While the guanine nucleotides GTP and GMP-P(NH)P elevated adenylate cyclase in a concentration-dependent manner in both SHR and WKY, the magnitude of stimulation was significantly lower in the former group. Decreased basal adenylate cyclase activity and responsiveness to adenosine, various hormones, NaF and FSK were observed in SHR of all ages, i.e. from 4 to 24 weeks of age. In addition, basal, hormone-, NaF- and FSK-stimulated adenylate cyclase activity was diminished markedly in the aorta of SHR. These results suggest that, in SHR, not only is basal adenylate cyclase activity decreased but the abilities of adenosine, other hormones and agonists, such as NaF and FSK, to stimulate adenylate cyclase, guanine nucleotide regulatory protein and the catalytic subunit of the cyclase system are also impaired in the myocardial sarcolemma and aorta.

Atrial natriuretic factor reduces cyclic adenosine monophosphate content of human fibroblasts by enhancing phosphodiesterase activity

Radioligand binding studies disclosed one class of high affinity atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) receptors on human fibroblast membranes (Kd = 66 pM; maximum number of binding sites [Bmax] = 7,000 sites/cell). ANF increased cellular cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) content and suppressed isoproterenol- and PGE1-elevated, but not basal, cAMP content. Pertussis toxin pretreatment, which maximally ADP-ribosylated Gi, the guanine nucleotide-binding protein that couples inhibitory receptors to adenylate cyclase and blocks receptor-mediated inhibition of adenylate cyclase, did not interfere with ANF suppression of isoproterenol- or PGE1-elevated cellular cAMP content. Preliminary incubation of fibroblasts with 8-bromo cGMP or phosphodiesterase inhibitors, including 3-isobutyl-1-methylxanthine, Ro 20-1724, and cilostamide, however, prevented the ANF suppression of cAMP. MB 22948, an inhibitor that is partially selective for cGMP phosphodiesterase, did not block the effect of ANF. We conclude that in these cells, unlike other systems, ANF reduces cAMP content by activating a phosphodiesterase rather than by inhibiting adenylate cyclase.

Involvement of Ni protein in the functional coupling of the atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) receptor to adenylate cyclase in rat lung plasma membranes

In the presence of 1 microM atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) and low (0.1 mM) Mg2+ concentrations, the initial rate of binding of [3H]guanosine 5'-[beta, gamma-imido)triphosphate [( 3H]p[NH]ppG) to rat lung plasma membranes was increased twofold to threefold. ANF-dependent stimulation of the initial rate of [3H]p[NH]ppG binding was reduced at high (5 mM) Mg2+ concentrations. Preincubation of membranes with p[NH]ppG (5 min at 37 degrees C) eliminated the ANF-dependent effect on [3H]p[NH]ppG binding whereas ANF-dependent [3H]p[NH]ppG binding was unaffected by similar pretreatment with guanosine 5'-[beta-thio]diphosphate (GDP[beta S]). An increase in ANF concentration from 10 pM to 1 microM caused a 40% decrease in forskolin-stimulated or isoproterenol-stimulated adenylate cyclase activities (IC50 5 nM) in rat lung plasma membranes. GTP (100 microM) was obligatory for the ANF-dependent inhibition of adenylate cyclase, which could be completely overcome by the presence of 100 microM GDP[beta S] or the addition of 10 mM Mn2+. Reduction of Na2+ concentration from 120 mM to 20 mM had the same effect. Pertussis toxin eliminated ANF-dependent inhibition of adenylate cyclase by catalyzing ADP-ribosylation of membrane-bound Ni protein (41-kDa alpha subunit of the inhibitory guanyl-nucleotide-binding protein of adenylate cyclase). The data support the notion that one of the ANF receptors in rat lung plasma membranes is negatively coupled to a hormone-sensitive adenylate cyclase complex via the GTP-binding Ni protein.

Actions of atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) on cyclic nucleotide concentrations and phosphatidylinositol turnover in ventricular myocytes

Atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) stimulates cGMP production in isolated rabbit ventricular myocytes incubated in the presence of the phosphodiesterase inhibitor isobutylmethylxanthine (1mM). Half maximal activation was found at 10(-8)M ANP. Cellular cGMP concentrations of around 0.6 pmol/10(6) cells were elevated 4-6 fold by ANP (10(-6)M), 3-4 fold by carbachol (1mM) and around 10 fold by sodium nitroprusside (1mM). ANP had no effect on basal or isoprenaline-stimulated cAMP concentrations or on basal or noradrenaline-stimulated turnover of phosphatidylinositol. From these results we conclude that ANP receptors, coupled to particulate guanylate cyclase, exist in cardiac ventricular muscle. This indicates that ANP may also have a physiological action on ventricular muscle contractility during volume expansion.

Atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) stimulates the release of alpha-MSH from frog neurointermediate lobes in vitro. Interaction with dopamine, GABA and neuropeptide Y

The action of atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) on alpha-MSH release from frog neurointermediate lobe was studied in vitro using a perifusion technique. Synthetic ANF Arg101-Tyr 126, at concentrations ranging from 10(-7) to 10(-5)M, caused a dose-related stimulation of alpha-MSH release. In addition, dopamine, GABA and NPY, three neuroendocrine factors which inhibit alpha-MSH secretion totally suppressed the action of ANF on alpha-MSH production. The neural lobe of the amphibian pituitary contains numerous ANF immunoreactive fibers, and this regulatory peptide may diffuse from nerves terminating in the pars nervosa to the pars intermedia. Thus, our results suggest that ANF of hypothalamo-neurohypophysial origin may be involved in the multineuronal regulation of amphibian melanotrophs.

Atrial natriuretic peptide does not affect corticotropin-releasing factor-, arginine vasopressin- and angiotensin II-induced adrenocorticotropic hormone release in vivo or in vitro

The effect of synthetic atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) was examined on the in vivo and in vitro release of ACTH. Intravenous ANP (4 micrograms/kg body weight) administration did not affect the corticotropin releasing factor (CRF, 4 micrograms/kg body weight)-, arginine vasopressin (AVP, 2 micrograms/kg body weight)- and angiotensin II (A II, 4 micrograms/kg body weight)-induced ACTH release in unanesthetized freely moving rats. ANP did not inhibit the basal, CRF- and AVP-induced release of ACTH in pituitary cell cultures. ANP did not affect the CRF- and AVP-induced plasma corticosterone elevation, while it attenuated the AVP-induced corticosterone elevation. These results indicate that ANP does not affect the ACTH release at the pituitary level in vivo and in vitro.

Alpha-h-ANP injection in normals, low renin hypertension and primary aldosteronism

Atrial natriuretic peptide, a hormone secreted by the heart, is involved in salt and fluid homeostasis and also exerts an inhibitory effect on aldosterone production in vitro. In order to elucidate if this effect is also present in man, 6 normal volunteers, 5 low renin hypertensive patients (LRH) and 7 patients with primary aldosteronism (PA) have received 100 micrograms of alpha-h-Anp as bolus i.v. (The decrease in blood pressure was mild and transient in all groups, whereas a marked diuretic effect was observed in all hypertensives even in PA where high levels of endogenous ANP have been found. In normals we observed a significant decrease of plasma aldosterone values while in PA and LRH this effect was not evident. This phenomenon associated with a greater natriuretic effect in LRH and PA, as compared with normals, demonstrates the lack of the correlation between ANP-induced diuresis and aldosterone inhibiting properties.

Atrial natriuretic factor receptors and stimulation of cyclic GMP formation in normal and malignant osteoblasts

Synthetic rat atrial natriuretic factor (Ile-ANF-26) stimulated cyclic GMP formation by up to several hundred-fold in osteoblast-rich cultures from newborn rat calvaria and in clonal osteogenic sarcoma cells (UMR 106-01) which are phenotypically osteoblast. ANF had no effect on the cyclic AMP response to parathyroid hormone in the same cells. Specific, high-affinity binding sites for ANF were identified in both cell types, with Kd and receptor numbers in normal osteoblasts of 1.2 +/- 0.1 X 10(-10) M and 42 +/- 4 X 10(3) per cell, and in UMR 106-01 cells of 1.4 +/- 0.1 X 10(-10) M and 22 +/- 4 X 10(3) per cell.

Alpha-human atrial natriuretic polypeptide reduces the plasma arginine vasopressin concentration in human subjects

The synthetic alpha-human atrial natriuretic polypeptide (alpha-hANP) was infused into six normotensive, euvolaemic, healthy volunteers to examine the effect on the plasma arginine vasopressin (AVP) concentration. The intravenous administration of alpha-hANP (0.1 microgram/kg/min, 20 min) led to a remarkable reduction in mean blood pressure (-10 mmHg, P less than 0.05), and there was an increase in pulse rate (+10 bpm, P less than 0.05), in each subject. The urinary volume, sodium excretion and cyclic 3',5'-guanosine monophosphate (cyclic-GMP) excretion were increased to 3.5 (P less than 0.05), 2.5 (P less than 0.05) eight-fold (P less than 0.01), respectively, during the alpha-hANP infusion. The dose and duration of the synthetic alpha-hANP in the present study was sufficient to induce these cardiovascular and renal effects. The plasma AVP concentrations decreased from 0.39 +/- 0.09 pg/ml to the undetectable level during the alpha-hANP administration. After infusion, the plasma concentrations of the AVP promptly returned to preinfusion levels (0.46 +/- 0.14 pg/ml). However, there was no significant change in plasma AVP concentration during placebo infusion. The marked suppression in plasma AVP concentration may account for the remarkable diuresis, in addition of the direct renal effects of the synthetic alpha-hANP.

Mechanism of vasodilation induced by alpha-human atrial natriuretic polypeptide in rabbit and guinea-pig renal arteries

Effects of alpha-human atrial natriuretic polypeptide (alpha-HANP) on electrical and mechanical properties of smooth muscle cells of the guinea-pig and rabbit renal arteries and of the guinea-pig mesenteric artery were investigated. alpha-HANP (up to 10 nM) modified neither the membrane potential nor resistance of smooth muscle cells of the guinea-pig and rabbit renal arteries. In the guinea-pig mesenteric and renal arteries, alpha-HANP (up to 10 nM) had no effect on the amplitude and facilitation (mesenteric artery) or depression (renal artery) of excitatory junction potentials nor on action potentials. In the guinea-pig renal artery, alpha-HANP (up to 10 nM) had no effect on the depolarization induced by noradrenaline (NA) (up to 10 microM) but markedly inhibited NA-induced contraction. alpha-HANP (10 nM) slightly inhibited the K-induced contraction. In the rabbit renal artery, alpha-HANP (10 nM) inhibited the NA-induced contraction and to a lesser extent the K-induced contraction. In the rabbit renal artery, the effects of alpha-HANP on the release of Ca from the cellular storage by two applications of NA, and its re-storage, were investigated in Ca-free solution containing 2 mM-EGTA. When 5 nM-alpha-HANP was applied before and during the first application of 0.5 microM-NA, the contraction was markedly inhibited but the contraction to a second application of 10 microM-NA was potentiated. If the first dose of NA was 10 microM the effect was very small. Under the same experimental procedures, nitroglycerine (10 microM) showed almost the same effects as alpha-HANP on the NA-induced contractions. When both the first (3 mM) and second (10 mM) contractions were evoked by caffeine in Ca-free solution, alpha-HANP (5 nM) and nitroglycerine (10 microM) inhibited both contractions to the same extent. In the rabbit renal artery, applications of alpha-HANP or nitroglycerine increased the amount of guanosine 3',5'-phosphate (cyclic GMP) in a dose-dependent manner. However, a much higher concentration of nitroglycerine was required (2 X 10(3) times). In the rabbit renal artery, hydrolysis of phosphatidyl inositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PI-P2) activated by 0.5 microM-NA was inhibited by alpha-HANP, in a dose-dependent manner, but activation by 10 microM-NA was not inhibited by alpha-HANP (up to 100 nM).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)

Atrial natriuretic factor receptors are negatively coupled to adenylate cyclase in cultured atrial and ventricular cardiocytes

We have studied the effect of synthetic rat atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) on adenylate cyclase activity in cultured cardiocytes from atria (left and right) and ventricles from neonatal rats. ANF (Arg 101-Tyr 126) inhibited adenylate cyclase activity in a concentration dependent manner in cultured atrial (right and left atria) and ventricular cells. However the inhibition was greater in atrial cells as compared to ventricular cells. The maximal inhibition observed in ventricular cells was about 35% with an apparent Ki of about 10(-10) M, whereas about 55% inhibition with an apparent Ki between 5 X 10(-10) M and 65% inhibition with an apparent Ki of 10(-9) M were observed in right and left atrial cardiocytes respectively. The inhibitory effect of ANF was dependent on the presence of guanine nucleotides. Various hormones and agents such as isoproterenol, prostaglandins, adenosine, forskolin and sodium fluoride stimulated adenylate cyclase activities to various degrees in these atrial and ventricular cardiocytes. ANF inhibited the stimulatory responses of all these agonists, however the degree of inhibition varied for each agent. In addition ANF also inhibited cAMP levels in these cells. These data indicate that ANF receptors are present in cardiocytes and are negatively coupled to adenylate cyclase.

Testosterone production by mouse Leydig cells is stimulated in vitro by atrial natriuretic factor

The synthetic atrial peptides, rat atrial natriuretic peptide, atriopeptin I and atriopeptin II, stimulated testosterone production by mouse Leydig cells in a time- and concentration-dependent manner. The maximum stimulation of the steroidogenesis in response to the peptides was 6-10-fold over the basal level, as compared with 20-24-fold stimulation obtained with saturating concentrations of hCG. The stimulation of steroidogenesis by the most potent peptide, atriopeptin II, was markedly enhanced in the presence of the phosphodiesterase inhibitor, 3-isobutyl-1-methylxanthine, suggesting an involvement of cyclic nucleotides. However, neither basal nor hCG-stimulated levels of cAMP were altered by the peptide, though testosterone production in response to submaximal concentrations of hCG was increased in the presence of atriopeptin II. The nature of the second messenger involved and the mechanism of action of the atrial peptides may be elucidated by further research in progress.

Circulating atrial natriuretic peptides in conscious rats: regulation of release by multiple factors

Cardiocytes in the atria contain a prohormone that gives rise to atrial natriuretic peptides (ANP's), which have intrinsic hemodynamic regulatory activity. The distribution of ANP's in the brain suggests the involvement of these peptides in central cardiovascular regulation. In conscious rats with chronic indwelling catheters, volume loading with isotonic saline or glucose increased the amount of circulating immunoreactive ANP's by a factor of 4 to 5, as determined by radioimmunoassay. Hyperosmotic challenge with a hypertonic NaCl solution or anesthesia with halothane caused similar increases in plasma ANP's. Results obtained with the denervated-heart preparation indicate that neuronal influences are important in the release of ANP's induced by volume loading. As judged from reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography of extracted plasma and radioimmunoassay of collected fractions, the circulating physiologically important ANP's in the conscious rodent appear to be alpha-rANP(5-28) (atriopeptin III) and either alpha-rANP(3-28) [ANF(8-33)] or alpha-rANP(1-28) (ANF).

Effect of atrial natriuretic peptide on gonadotropin release in superfused rat pituitary cells

Cardiac atrial muscle cells produce a polypeptide hormone that plays a role in the control of water and electrolyte balance and blood pressure. The circulating form of this hormone is the atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP), which contains 28 amino acids. Various immunohistochemical studies have shown that ANP is present in many areas of the central nervous system, including the median eminence. In our studies, we investigated the effect of ANP in a superfused rat pituitary cell system. When ANP was administered at increasing concentrations (0.01 microM to 1 microM), it caused a significant dose-related stimulation of the release of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). The lowest effective dose of ANP in our system was 0.03 microM. When ANP and LH-releasing hormone were administered together, the response was prolonged and had the characteristics of ANP-stimulated LH and FSH release. In contrast with some previous reports, ANP in high concentration (1 microM) consistently induced a small but significant stimulation of the release of corticotropin. ANP did not influence the basal release of prolactin, growth hormone, and thyrotropin.

George E. Brown memorial lecture. Role of atrial peptides in body fluid homeostasis

Extracts of mammalian atria, but not ventricles, induce marked diuresis, natriuresis, and reduction in blood pressure when infused systemically in rats and dogs. These extracts also inhibit aldosterone biosynthesis and renal renin release. Natriuretic peptides, 21 amino acids and longer, have been isolated from atria of rodents and man, and share a nearly homologous amino acid sequence at the carboxyterminus. Natriuretic activity resides in a 17-amino acid ring formed by a disulfide bridge, and the C-terminal Phe-Arg appears necessary for full biological potency. The deoxyribonucleic acid-encoding atrial natriuretic peptides have been cloned and the gene structure elucidated. Reduction of the diuretic and natriuretic responses to an acute volume load by right atrial appendectomy first suggested a role for atrial peptides in the physiological response to plasma volume expansion. Subsequently, release of peptides with natriuretic and spasmolytic properties from isolated heart preparations in response to right atrial distension was demonstrated by bioassay and radioimmunoassay. The presence of these peptides in normal rat and human plasma in concentrations of 20-100 pM, and the findings of increased levels in response to acute and chronic plasma volume expansion, rapid atrial tachyarrhythmias, systemic hypertension, congestive heart failure, and renal insufficiency imply that they play an important role in body fluid homeostasis. The mechanisms by which atrial peptides increase renal salt and water excretion are as yet unclear. Renal vascular effects have been consistently demonstrated, and limited evidence for direct actions on tubule ion transport has also been reported recently. In vitro, these peptides cause precontracted vascular and nonvascular smooth muscle to relax, mediated by a direct action on smooth muscle cells. Specific receptors for these peptides have been characterized in crude membranes prepared from whole kidney homogenates and adrenal glomerulosa cells, in intact glomeruli and cultured glomerular mesangial cells, and in intact bovine aortic smooth muscle and endothelial cells. Natriuretic peptides stimulate cyclic guanosine monophosphate accumulation in target tissues, and augment particulate guanylate cyclase activity in membrane fractions, suggesting that cyclic guanosine monophosphate is the second messenger mediating their cellular action.

Atrial natriuretic factor receptors in rat kidney, adrenal gland, and brain: autoradiographic localization and fluid balance dependent changes

Mammalian atria contain natriuretic peptides designated atrial natriuretic factors (ANF). Using in vitro autoradiography with 125I-labeled ANF, we have localized high-affinity (Kd = 150 pM) ANF binding sites to the glomeruli of the kidney, zona glomerulosa of the adrenal gland, and choroid plexus of the brain. The numbers of sites in both kidney and adrenal are increased in rats deprived of water; increases are detectable within 72 hr of water deprivation in the kidney and within 24 hr in the adrenal gland. Receptor numbers decline in rats given 2.0% NaCl as drinking water and in diabetic rats. The discrete localizations and dynamic alterations of these receptors suggest that ANF regulates fluid balance through diverse but coordinated effects on receptors in numerous organs including the kidney, adrenal, and brain.

Atrial natriuretic factor is released from rat hypothalamus in vitro

In vitro release of atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) from rat hypothalamic fragment during 60 min incubation was studied using a specific and sensitive radioimmunoassay (RIA). The Sephadex G-75 gel filtration profiles of the incubation medium revealed that the majority of released ANF-like immunoreactivity (LI) had a molecular weight same as alpha-atrial natriuretic polypeptide and a small amount of ANF-LI of larger molecular size was also released. The release of ANF was increased by addition of 50 mM KCl and the release by 50 mM KCl was completely suppressed in the presence of 2 mM EGTA, a chelating agent of Ca2+. A23187, a Ca2+ ionophore, at a concentration of 2 X 10(-4) M augmented the release of ANF-LI. These results indicate that hypothalamic ANF is released in a Ca2+-dependent manner like other hypothalamic peptides. This suggests that hypothalamic ANF acts as a neurotransmitter and/or neuromodulator in the hypothalamus and possesses some role in the regulation of pituitary hormone secretion.

Localization and characterization of specific receptors for atrial natriuretic factor in the ciliary processes of the eye

By light and electron microscope radioautography in vivo, competitive binding sites for 125I-Arg 101-Tyr 126 atrial natriuretic factor were localized mostly on the "pigmented" epithelium of the rat ciliary process. Further investigation using isolated ciliary processes from rabbits demonstrated the presence of specific receptors for 125I-atrial natriuretic factor. In addition, synthetic atrial natriuretic factor inhibited basal and stimulated adenylate cyclase activity. These results demonstrate for the first time the presence of specific receptors for atrial natriuretic factor in the ciliary processes which are negatively coupled to adenylate cyclase. The possible role of this peptide in the control of intraocular pressure is suggested.