High affinity dopamine D2 receptor radioligands. 2. [125I]epidepride, a potent and specific radioligand for the characterization of striatal and extrastriatal dopamine D2 receptors

Frontal D2/3 Receptor Availability in Schizophrenia Patients Before and After Their First Antipsychotic Treatment: Relation to Cognitive Functions and Psychopathology

BACKGROUND

We have previously reported associations between frontal D2/3 receptor binding potential positive symptoms and cognitive deficits in antipsychotic-naïve schizophrenia patients. Here, we examined the effect of dopamine D2/3 receptor blockade on cognition. Additionally, we explored the relation between frontal D2/3 receptor availability and treatment effect on positive symptoms.

METHODS

Twenty-five antipsychotic-naïve first-episode schizophrenia patients were examined with the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale, tested with the cognitive test battery Cambridge Neuropsychological Test Automated Battery, scanned with single-photon emission computerized tomography using the dopamine D2/3 receptor ligand [(123)I]epidepride, and scanned with MRI. After 3 months of treatment with either risperidone (n=13) or zuclopenthixol (n=9), 22 patients were reexamined.

RESULTS

Blockade of extrastriatal dopamine D2/3 receptors was correlated with decreased attentional focus (r = -0.615, P=.003) and planning time (r = -0.436, P=.048). Moreover, baseline frontal dopamine D2/3 binding potential and positive symptom reduction correlated positively (D2/3 receptor binding potential left frontal cortex rho = 0.56, P=.003; D2/3 receptor binding potential right frontal cortex rho = 0.48, P=.016).

CONCLUSIONS

Our data support the hypothesis of a negative influence of D2/3 receptor blockade on specific cognitive functions in schizophrenia. This is highly clinically relevant given the well-established association between severity of cognitive disturbances and a poor functional outcome in schizophrenia. Additionally, the findings support associations between frontal D2/3 receptor binding potential at baseline and the effect of antipsychotic treatment on positive symptoms.

¹²⁴I-Epidepride: a PET radiotracer for extended imaging of dopamine D2/D3 receptors

OBJECTIVES

A new radiotracer, ¹²⁴I-epidepride, has been developed for the imaging of dopamine D2/3 receptors (D2/3Rs). ¹²⁴I-Epidepride (half-life of ¹²⁴I=4.2 days) allows imaging over extended periods compared to (18)F-fallypride (half-life of ¹⁸F=0.076 days) and may maximize visualization of D2/3Rs in the brain and pancreas (allowing clearance from adjacent organs). D2/3 Rs are also present in pancreatic islets where they co-localize with insulin to produce granules and may serve as a surrogate marker for imaging diabetes.

METHODS

¹²⁴I-Epidepride was synthesized using N-[[(2S)-1-ethylpyrrolidin-2-yl]methyl]-5-tributyltin-2,3-dimethoxybenzamide and ¹²⁴I-iodide under no carrier added condition. Rats were used for in vitro and in vivo imaging. Brain slices were incubated with (124)I-epidepride (0.75 μCi/cc) and nonspecific binding measured with 10 μM haloperidol. Autoradiograms were analyzed by OptiQuant. ¹²⁴I-Epidepride (0.2 to 0.3 mCi, iv) was administered to rats and brain uptake at 3 hours, 24 hours, and 48 hours post injection was evaluated.

RESULTS

¹²⁴I-Epidepride was obtained with 50% radiochemical yield and high radiochemical purity (>95%). (124)I-Epidepride localized in the striatum with a striatum to cerebellum ratio of 10. Binding was displaced by dopamine and haloperidol. Brain slices demonstrated localization of ¹²⁴I-epidepride up until 48 hours in the striatum. However, the extent of binding was reduced significantly.

CONCLUSIONS

¹²⁴I-Epidepride is a new radiotracer suitable for extended imaging of dopamine D2/3 receptors and may have applications in imaging of receptors in the brain and monitoring pancreatic islet cell grafting.

Relationship of frontal D(2/3) binding potentials to cognition: a study of antipsychotic-naive schizophrenia patients

Studies of in vivo dopamine receptors in schizophrenia have mostly focused on D(2) receptors in striatal areas or on D(1) receptors in cortex. No previous study has examined the correlation between cortical dopamine D(2/3) receptor binding potentials and cognition in schizophrenia patients. The objective was to examine this relation in the frontal cortex in first-episode, drug-naive schizophrenia patients. Based on preclinical and pharmacological evidence, we specifically expected to find a relation between D(2/3) receptor binding potentials and set shifting. This was a cross-sectional, case-control study using single-photon emission computerized tomography with the D(2/3)-receptor ligand [(123)I]epidepride, co-registered with structural magnetic resonance imaging and correlated to cognitive measures. Participants were 24 antipsychotic-naive, first-episode schizophrenia patients and 20 healthy controls matched for gender and age. For patients, a significant linear correlation between D(2/3) BP(ND) and set shifting was found, while significant quadratic associations were observed for verbal fluency, planning and attention. For controls, the only significant association with D(2/3) BP(ND) was a quadratic partial correlation for set shifting. The main findings indicated a relation between D(2/3) receptor binding in the frontal cortex and set shifting, planning and attention, but also support a differential involvement of cortical dopamine D(2/3) receptor binding in at least some cognitive functions, perhaps particularly attention, in schizophrenia patients compared to healthy people. The results suggest that cortical D(2/3) receptor function may be more involved in some cognitive functions (i.e. attention, fluency and planning) in patients with schizophrenia than in healthy people, suggesting that information processing in schizophrenia may be characterized by lower signal:noise ratios.

Frontal dopamine D(2/3) receptor binding in drug-naive first-episode schizophrenic patients correlates with positive psychotic symptoms and gender

BACKGROUND

The aim of the study was to examine extrastriatal dopamine D(2/3) receptor binding and psychopathology in schizophrenic patients, and to relate binding potential (BP) values to psychopathology.

METHODS

Twenty-five drug-naive schizophrenic patients and 20 healthy controls were examined with single-photon emission computerized tomography (SPECT) using the D(2/3)-receptor ligand [123I]epidepride.

RESULTS

In the hitherto largest study on extrastriatal D(2/3) receptors we detected a significant correlation between frontal D(2/3) BP values and positive schizophrenic symptoms in the larger group of male schizophrenic patients, higher frontal BP values in male (n = 17) compared to female (n = 8) patients, and - in accordance with this - significantly fewer positive schizophrenic symptoms in the female patients. No significant differences in BP values were observed between patients and controls; the patients, however, had significantly higher BP in the right compared to the left thalamus, whereas no significant hemispheric imbalances were observed in the healthy subjects.

CONCLUSIONS

The present data are the first to confirm a significant correlation between frontal D(2/3) receptor BP values and positive symptoms in male schizophrenic patients. They are in agreement with the hypothesis that frontal D(2/3) receptor activity is significant for positive psychotic symptoms. Additionally, the data support a thalamic hemispheric imbalance in schizophrenia.

Amphetamine-induced displacement of [18F] fallypride in striatum and extrastriatal regions in humans

This study examined D-amphetamine (D-AMPH)-induced displacements of [18F] fallypride in striatal and extrastriatal regions and the correlations of these displacements with cognition, affect, and sensation-seeking behavior. In all, 14 normal subjects, six females and eight males (ages 21-32, mean age 25.9 years), underwent positron emission tomography (PET) with [18F]fallypride before and 3 h after a 0.43 mg/kg oral dose of D-AMPH. Levels of dopamine (DA) D2 receptor density were calculated with the reference region method of Lammerstma. Percent displacements in striatal and extrastriatal regions were calculated for the caudate, putamen, ventral striatum, medial thalamus, amygdala, substantia nigra, and temporal cortex. Correlations of changes in cognition, affect, and sensation seeking with parametric images of D-AMPH-induced DA release were computed. Significant displacements were seen in the caudate, putamen, ventral striatum substantia nigra, and temporal cortex with a trend level change in the amygdala. Greatest displacements were seen in striatal subdivisions-5.6% in caudate, 11.2% in putamen, 7.2% in ventral striatum, and 6.6% in substantia nigra. Lesser decrements were seen in amygdala-4.4%, temporal cortex-3.7%, and thalamus-2.8%. Significant clusters of correlations of regional DA release with cognition and sensation-seeking behavior were observed. The current study demonstrates that [18F]fallypride PET studies using oral D-AMPH (0.43 mg/kg) can be used to study D-AMPH-induced DA release in the striatal and extrastriatal regions in humans, and their relationship with cognition and sensation-seeking behavior.

Expression of muscarinic and dopaminergic receptors and monoamine levels frontal cortex of epileptic rats

Apart from stroke, epilepsy is the most common neurological disorder with 0.5% of prevalence. The present study was performed in order to determine the monoamine levels, (M(1)-like) muscarinic and (D(1)- and D(2)-like) dopaminergic receptor changes in frontal cortex of adult rats after pilocarpine-induced status epilepticus (SE). Male Wistar rats were treated with a single dose of pilocarpine (400 mg/kg, s.c.) and the control group received 0.9% saline (s.c.). Both groups were sacrificed 1 h after treatment. The frontal cortex was dissected for neurochemical assays. The results show a downregulation of 27% in M(1) muscarinic receptor density, but in the dissociation constant (K(d)) value remained unaltered. D(1) and D(2) dopaminergic receptor densities and their K(d) values remained unaltered. Monoamine and metabolites levels presented decreases of 44%, 27%, 30% and 42% in dopamine (DA), homovanilic acid (HVA), norepinephrine (NE) and 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid (5-HIAA) contents, respectively. Moreover, in serotonin (5-HT) level remained unaltered and the 4-hydroxy-3-methoxy-phenylacetic acid (DOPAC) concentration was augmented by 34%. The results suggest that dopaminergic system in this area studied may not be directly involved in the seizures and status epilepticus, but different monoamines and metabolites can be modified in this cerebral area during seizure process. In conclusion, the neurochemical alterations that occur in frontal cortex of adult rats observed during the establishment of the status epilepticus induced by pilocarpine are decrease in M(1) receptor density concentration and a reduction in DA and NE levels.

Differential Effects of Cocaine-Induced Seizures and Lethality on M1-Like Muscarinic and Dopaminergic D1- and D2-Like Binding Receptors in Mice Brain

This work was designed to study the changes produced by cocaine-induced seizures and lethality on dopaminergic D(1)- and D(2)-like receptors, muscarinic M(1)-like binding sites, as well as acetylcholinesterase activity in mice prefrontal cortex (PFC) and striatum (ST). Binding assays were performed in brain homogenates from the PFC and ST and ligands used were [(3)H]-N-methylscopolamine, [(3)H]-NMS (in the presence of carbachol), [(3)H]-SCH 23390 and [(3)H]-spiroperidol (in presence of mianserin), for muscarinic (M(1)-like), D(1)- and D(2)-like receptors, respectively. Brain acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity was also determined in these brain areas. Cocaine-induced SE decreased [(3)H]-SCH 23390 binding in both ST and PFC areas. A decrease in [(3)H]-NMS binding and an increase in [(3)H]-spiroperidol binding in PFC was also observed. Cocaine-induced lethality increased [(3)H]-spiroperidol binding in both areas and decreased [(3)H]-NMS binding only in PFC, while no difference was seen in [(3)H]-SCH 23390 binding. Neither SE, nor lethality altered [(3)H]-NMS binding in ST. AChE activity increased after SE in ST while after death the increase occurred in both PFC and ST. In conclusion, cocaine-induced SE and lethality produces differential changes in brain cholinergic and dopaminergic receptors, depending on the brain area studied suggesting an extensive and complex involvement of these with cocaine toxicity in central nervous system.

In vivo characterization of the pharmacokinetics and pharmacological properties of [11C]-(+)-PHNO in rats using an intracerebral beta-sensitive system

This study reports on the binding kinetics and pharmacological characterization of [11C]-(+)-PHNO ((+)-4-propyl-3,4,4a,5,6,10b-hexahydro-2H-naphtho[1,2-b][1,4]oxazin-9-ol), a promising agonist radiotracer for in vivo evaluation of the D2-receptor. Its in vivo kinetics were monitored in rat striatum and cerebellum using a beta-sensitive Microprobe system. Control studies showed that [11C]-(+)-PHNO binding was reversible and reached a peak time equilibrium of specific binding in striatum 30 min after radiotracer injection. The binding potential (BP) calculated by the simplified reference tissue model was 3-fold higher than that measured with [11C]-(-)-NPA (2.14 +/- 0.50 vs. 0.66 +/- 0.01, respectively). In contrast, the methyl analog of (+)-PHNO, [11C]-(+)-MHNO, which displayed promising D2-agonist properties in vitro, showed no specific binding in the striatum in vivo. [11C]-(+)-PHNO binding was totally blocked by raclopride (1 mg/kg; i.v.) and 97% displaced by NPA (2 mg/kg; i.v.) suggesting that [11C]-(+)-PHNO was specific for the high affinity states of D2/D3-receptors. However, (+)-PHNO (1 mg/kg; i.v.) totally blocked and displaced [11C]-raclopride binding in striatum. Thus, (+)-PHNO at high concentrations might be able to bind to the low affinity states of D2/D3-receptors. After an amphetamine pretreatment (2 mg/kg; i.v.), a 69% decrease in BP value (P < 0.05) was observed for [11C]-(+)-PHNO indicating that its binding was highly sensitive to variations of endogenous DA. These results substantiate the use of [11C]-(+)-PHNO as an agonist radiotracer for D2-imaging. The sensitivity of its binding to competition with endogenous DA suggests an association with the subset of high affinity state D2-receptors.

Behavioral and neurochemical effects on rat offspring after prenatal exposure to ethanol

The work studied behavioral and neurochemical alterations in 21-day-old pups, from both sexes (26 g on average) born from female Wistar rats administered daily with ethanol (0.5 or 4.0 g/kg, p.o.), for 30 days before mating, and throughout their gestational period. Ethanol administration continued from delivery up to weaning. The open field, elevated plus maze and forced swimming tests were used to evaluate effects of ethanol on locomotion, anxiety and depression, respectively. Binding assays were used to identify dopaminergic (D1- and D2-like) and muscarinic (M1 plus M2) receptors. Results of the plus maze test indicated significant and dose-dependent increases in the number of entrances in the open arms and in the time of permanence in the open arms, in the prenatally ethanol-exposed offspring, as compared to controls, indicating an anxiolytic effect. In the open field test, this group presented decreases in spontaneous locomotor activity as well as in the occurrences of rearing and grooming. Offspring also showed dose-dependent increases in their immobility time in the forced swimming test, characterizing despair behavior. Decreases in the hippocampal (D2: 32%; D1: 25%) and striatal (D2: 30%; D1: 52%) dopaminergic binding were detected in ethanol-exposed offspring. On the other hand, significant increases were observed in muscarinic binding in the hippocampus (40%) as well as in the striatum (42%). This study shows evidence that in utero ethanol exposure produces a long-lasting effect on development and pharmacological characteristics of brain systems that may have important implications in behavioral and neurochemical responsiveness occurring in adulthood.

Modifications in muscarinic, dopaminergic and serotonergic receptors concentrations in the hippocampus and striatum of epileptic rats

The present study was undertaken in order to investigate the muscarinic (M(1)), dopaminergic (D(1) and D(2)) and serotonergic (5-HT(2)) receptors densities in hippocampus and striatum of Wistar rats after status epilepticus (SE) induced by pilocarpine. The control group was treated with 0.9% saline. An other group of rats received pilocarpine (400 mg/kg, s.c.) and both groups were sacrificed 1 h after treatment. The results have shown that pilocarpine administration and resulting SE produced a downregulation of M(1) receptor in hippocampus (41%) and striatum (51%) and an increase in the dissociation constant (K(d)) values in striatum (42%) alone. In both areas the 5-HT(2) receptor density remained unaltered, but a reduction (50%) and an increase (15%) in the K(d) values were detected in striatum and hippocampus, respectively. D(1) and D(2) receptor densities in hippocampus and striatum remained unaltered meanwhile K(d) values for D(1) receptor declined significantly, 33% in hippocampus and 26% in striatum. Similarly, K(d) values for D(2) decreased 55% in hippocampus and 52% in striatum. From the preceding results, it is clear that there is a possible relation between alterations in muscarinic receptor density and others systems studied as well as they suggest that changes in dissociation constant can be responsible for the establishment of pilocarpine-induced SE by altering the affinity of neurotransmitters such as acetylcholine, dopamine and serotonine.

Pilocarpine-induced status epilepticus: Monoamine level, muscarinic and dopaminergic receptors alterations in striatum of young rats

Behavioural changes, muscarinic and dopaminergic receptors density and levels of monoamines were measured in striatum of rats after pilocarpine-induced status epilepticus (SE). Wistar rats at the age of 21 days were treated with pilocarpine (400mg/kg; subcutaneously) whilst the control group was treated with 0.9% saline (s.c.). Both groups were sacrificed 1h following the treatment. SE induced a muscarinic receptor downregulation of 64% in pilocarpine group. This effect was also observed to be 57% in D(1) and 32% in D(2). In the dissociation constant (K(d)) values in muscarinic and D(1) receptor no alterations were verified. On the other hand, the K(d) value for D(2) was observed to increase 41%. High performance liquid chromatography determinations showed 63, 35, 77 and 64% decreases in dopamine, 3-methoxy-phenylacetic acid, serotonin and 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid contents, respectively. The homovanilic acid level was verified to increase 119%. The noradrenaline content was unaltered. A direct evidence of monoamine levels alterations can be verified during seizure activity and receptor density changes appear to occur in an accentuated way in immature brain during the estabilishment of SE induced by pilocarpine.

Protective effects of N-acetylserotonin against 6-hydroxydopamine-induced neurotoxicity

The present work studied in vivo neuroprotective effects of n-acetylserotonin (NAS), the immediate precursor of melatonin, on the dopaminergic system, in rats lesioned with the unilateral intrastriatal injection of the neurotoxin 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA). Two weeks after the lesion, the dopamine receptor agonist, apomorphine, produced rotational asymmetry, and the NAS treatment significantly reduced the motor deficit following the apomorphine challenge. The apomorphine-induced rotational behavior was blocked by 84, 86 and 53% after NAS, at doses of 2, 5 and 10 mg/kg, i.p., respectively. The injection of 6-OHDA significantly decreased DA, DOPAC and HVA levels in the rat striatum. In contrast, the NAS (2, 5 and 10 mg/kg, i.p., daily for 7 days) treatment partially reversed the decreases caused by 6-OHDA, and the neurotransmitter levels were brought to approximately 50% of that observed in the contralateral sides. NAS was more efficient at the smaller doses. NAS (5 mg/kg) produced an up-regulation of D1 (37%) and D2 (37%) receptors associated with a decrease in Kd values.

Effect of reduction in endogenous dopamine on extrastriatal binding of [11C]FLB 457 in rat brain—An ex vivo study

Carbon-11 labeled FLB 457 has been used successfully as a selective, high affinity PET ligand for the quantification of extrastriatal D2-like receptors in man. This study was carried out in rats to investigate regional values for maximal binding and ED50 (a measure of apparent K(d)) for the radioligand in vivo in control animals and in a group pretreated with the neuronal impulse flow inhibitor, gamma-butyrolactone. The aims were to obtain further information regarding the specific activity needed to ensure tracer kinetics and to investigate baseline occupancy by dopamine (DA), each relevant to optimal clinical use of the radioligand. Regional B(max) values were consistent with the distribution of D2-like receptors in rat brain. Of interest, 60% of the binding in cerebellum, often used as a low-binding "reference region" for PET quantification, was saturable, with B(max) only 2- to 3-fold less than that in neocortex, hippocampus, and thalamus. ED50 values were in the range 2-3 nmol/kg, confirming minimal receptor occupancy by the tracer in human PET, using high but achievable specific activities. In the majority of extrastriatal tissues, reduction in synaptic DA did not significantly decrease the apparent K(d), except in cortical regions, where the extent of the effect suggested a low ( approximately 10%), but measurable baseline receptor occupancy by DA.

5-substituted derivatives of 6-halogeno-3-((2-(S)-azetidinyl)methoxy)pyridine and 6-halogeno-3-((2-(S)-pyrrolidinyl)methoxy)pyridine with low picomolar affinity for alpha4beta2 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor and wide range of lipophilicity: potential probes for imaging with positron emission tomography

Potential positron emission tomography (PET) ligands with low picomolar affinity at the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) and with lipophilicity (log D) ranging from -1.6 to +1.5 have been synthesized. Most members of the series, which are derivatives of 5-substituted-6-halogeno-A-85380, exhibited a higher binding affinity at alpha4beta2-nAChRs than epibatidine. An analysis, by molecular modeling, revealed an important role of the orientation of the additional heterocyclic ring on the binding affinity of the ligands with nAChRs. The existing nicotinic pharmacophore models do not accommodate this finding. Two compounds of the series, 6-[(18)F]fluoro-5-(pyridin-3-yl)-A-85380 ([(18)F]31) and 6-chloro-3-((2-(S)-azetidinyl)methoxy)-5-(2-[(18)F]fluoropyridin-5-yl)pyridine) ([(18)F]35), were radiolabeled with (18)F. Comparison of PET data for [(18)F]31 and 2-[(18)F]FA shows the influence of lipophilicity on the binding potential. Our recent PET studies with [(18)F]35 demonstrated that its binding potential values in Rhesus monkey brain were ca. 2.5 times those of 2-[(18)F]FA. Therefore, [(18)F]35 and several other members of the series, when radiolabeled, will be suitable for quantitative imaging of extrathalamic nAChRs.

Effects of haloperidol on rat behavior and density of dopaminergic D2-like receptors

The present work shows the effects of a typical neuroleptic drug (haloperidol, HAL) on rat behavior (catalepsy and locomotor activity) and dopaminergic D2-like receptor densities in the hippocampus and striatum. Male Wistar rats (2-3 months old) were treated daily for 30 days with HAL (0.2 or 1mg/kg, intraperitoneally (i.p.)). At the end of treatment and 1h or 1, 3, 7 and 15 days after drug withdrawal, animals were subjected to behavioral tests and sacrificed afterwards for binding assays. The results showed that behavioral effects with both doses were significant only 1h and 1 day after withdrawal, and similar to controls at the third day. An up-regulation of D2 receptors was observed in the striatum (28% increase) but not in the hippocampus after 24h HAL (1mg/kg) withdrawal. However, an up-regulation was seen in both areas (1mg/kg) 3 days after drug withdrawal (58 and 42% increases in the hippocampus and striatum, respectively), and continued after 7 days of withdrawal only in the striatum (43 and 49% for the doses of 0.2 and 1mg/kg, respectively), suggesting the influence of dose, age, and time of drug withdrawal on these parameters. The up-regulation disappeared after 15 days of haloperidol withdrawal. Increases (72 and 140%) in constant dissociation values (K(d)) values were also observed 7 days after withdrawal. Results show differences on a time-basis between behavioral alterations and dopaminergic D2 receptors up-regulation.

Imaging methods for evaluating brain function in man

Imaging of brain function and neurotransmission is an important bridge between basic and clinical research. Regional cerebral energy metabolism and blood flow are normally coupled to regional cerebral function. Positron tomography (PET) studies of cerebral glucose metabolism and blood flow, single photon tomography (SPECT) and MRI studies of cerebral perfusion, have been used to image cerebral development and aging in man. The sensitivity, temporal resolution, spatial resolution and lack of radiation have led to the widespread utilization of blood oxygen level dependent (BOLD) and MRI perfusion techniques. PET and SPECT methods for studying cerebral neurotransmission include studies of dopaminergic, serotonergic, cholinergic, opiate and GABAergic neurotransmission in man. Studies of cerebral neurotransmission in man have helped to delineate the mechanisms of action of antipsychotic and antidepressant drugs, the diagnosis and progression of Parkinson's disease, and to evaluate neuroprotective drugs. The strengths, limitations, and application of these modalities are reviewed. The application of these methods to cerebral development and aging are briefly discussed.

Effect of one-week ethanol treatment on monoamine levels and dopaminergic receptors in rat striatum

We studied the effects of ethanol on the levels of norepinephrine, dopamine, serotonin (5-HT) and their metabolites as well as on D1- and D2-like receptors in the rat striatum. Ethanol (2 or 4 g/kg, po) was administered daily by gavage to male Wistar rats and on the 7th day, 30 min or 48 h after drug administration, the striatum was dissected for biochemical assays. Monoamine and metabolite concentrations were measured by HPLC and D1- and D2-like receptor densities were determined by binding assays. Scatchard analyses showed decreases of 30 and 43%, respectively, in D1- and D2-like receptor densities and no change in dissociation constants (Kd) 48 h after the withdrawal of the dose of 4 g/kg. Ethanol, 2 g/kg, was effective only on the density of D2-like receptors but not on Kd of either receptor. Thirty minutes after the last ethanol injection (4 g/kg), decreases of D2 receptor density (45%) as well as of Kd values (34%) were detected. However, there was no significant effect on D1-like receptor density and a 46% decrease was observed in Kd. An increase in dopamine and 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid (DOPAC), a decrease in norepinephrine, and no alteration in 5-HT levels were demonstrated after 48-h withdrawal of 4 g/kg ethanol. Similar effects were observed in dopamine and DOPAC levels 30 min after drug administration. No alteration in norepinephrine concentration and a decrease in 5-HT levels were seen 30 min after ethanol (4 g/kg) administration. Our findings indicate the involvement of the monoaminergic system in the responses to ethanol.

Synthesis and preliminary biological characterization of a new potential (125)I-radioligand for dopamine and serotonin receptors

The synthesis and a preliminary biological characterization of a new class of N-benzyl-aminoalcohols which have serotonin (5-HT(2)) and dopamine (D(2)) receptor affinity is described. In vitro competition binding studies were conducted with the new molecules and (3)H-spiperone on crude membrane preparation from rat striatum and frontal cortex. One of these compounds, 3-benzylamino-1-(4-fluoro-2-iodophenyl)-propan-1-ol (6f), whose IC(50) values are in the micromolar range for both the D(2) and 5-HT(2) receptors, was prepared in iodine-125 labelled form (6i) by nucleophilic substitution of the bromine atom of 3-benzylamino-1-(2-bromo-4-fluorophenyl)-propan-1-ol (6d). In the in vivo studies, conducted on rats, the radiolabelled molecule 6i shows a good capacity to cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB) with a mean value of first pass cerebral extraction (E) of ca. 50% when the regional cerebral blood flow, measured with microsphere technique, is in the experimental animal's physiologic range (0.8-1 mL/min/g). A preliminary in vitro autoradiographic distribution on coronal rat brain slices of the radioiodinated molecule showed that it was preferentially localized in the striatum and in the cerebral regions rich in dopamine- and serotonin receptors, even if a high non-specific binding was observed.

Different times of withdrawal from cocaine administration cause changes in muscarinic and dopaminergic receptors in rat premotor cortex

The present work studied neurochemical changes in rat premotor cortex 30 min, 1 and 5 days after withdrawal from cocaine repeated administration (20 and 30 mg/kg, intraperitoneally, daily for 7 days). Binding assays were performed in 10% homogenates, and ligands used were [(3)H]-N-methylscopolamine, [(3)H]-SCH 23390, and [(3)H]-spiroperidol for muscarinic, D(1)- and D(2)-like receptors, respectively. Levels of cyclic AMP (cAMP) and cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) were determined using a commercial kit. Scatchard analyses of muscarinic receptors showed an upregulation after 1 and 5 days withdrawal. While D(2)-like receptors were upregulated at all withdrawal periods, D(1)-like receptors were upregulated only at the 30 min withdrawal, and returned to normal levels after 1 day of the last injection. In relation to cAMP levels, the repeated cocaine administration, 1 day after the last injection produced a decrease (around 26%) with both doses, while a 67% increase was seen in cGMP levels with the 30 mg/kg dose. These findings indicate lasting neurochemical changes in premotor cortex caused by cocaine which remained after different withdrawal periods.

Effect of endogenous dopamine on extrastriatal [¹¹C]FLB 457 binding measured by PET

Central dopaminergic systems are known to be implicated in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia and recent in vivo dopamine receptor imaging studies have focused on the measurement of extrastriatal dopamine receptor. However, there are only a limited number of ligands that can measure the low-density D2 receptor in extrastriatal regions and their sensitivity to endogenous dopamine in extrastriatal regions has not yet been fully examined. In this study, the effect of endogenous dopamine on the extrastriatal binding of [11C]FLB 457 was examined in the rhesus monkey after facilitation with 1 mg/kg of methamphetamine (MAP) and was compared with the effect on the striatal binding of [11C]raclopride. The indices of receptor binding were obtained by four methods using cerebellum as a reference region. The bindings of [11C]FLB 457 in the frontal cortex, temporal cortex, and thalamus were not significantly changed after MAP treatment, while the striatal binding of [11C]raclopride was decreased by more than 20%. These results suggest that [11C]FLB 457 is not sensitive to endogenous dopamine in the extrastriatal regions of rhesus monkeys, despite a sufficient dose of MAP to decrease the binding of [11C]raclopride in the striatum.

Imaging of the dopaminergic system in parkinsonism with SPET

Parkinsonism is a feature of various neurodegenerative diseases. Since it is well known that the dopaminergic system plays a major role in parkinsonism, numerous reports have focused on the assessment of the dopaminergic system in vivo. While the use of positron emission tomography (PET) for routine application is still hampered by its limited availability, single photon emission tomography (SPET) has been shown to deliver comparable results to PET in clinical settings. In recent years SPET investigations of the dopamine transporter and of the dopamine D2-like receptors have provided valuable information about the pre- and postsynaptic dopaminergic system in parkinsonism. This article briefly reviews the literature dealing with SPET imaging in parkinsonism and specifically addresses the ligands used, the methodology applied, and the current major clinical applications.

Imaging synaptic neurotransmission with in vivo binding competition techniques: a critical review

Several groups have provided evidence that positron emission tomography (PET) and single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) neuroreceptor imaging techniques might be applied to measure acute fluctuations in dopamine (DA) synaptic concentration in the living human brain. Competition between DA and radioligands for binding to D2 receptor is the principle underlying this approach. This new application of neuroreceptor imaging provides a dynamic measurement of neurotransmission that is likely to be informative to our understanding of neuropsychiatric conditions. This article reviews and discusses the body of data supporting the feasibility and potential of this imaging paradigm. Endogenous competition studies performed in rodents, nonhuman primates, and humans are first summarized. After this overview, the validity of the model underlying the interpretation of these imaging data is critically assessed. The current reference model is defined as the occupancy model, since changes in radiotracer binding potential (BP) are assumed to be directly caused by changes in occupancy of D2 receptors by DA. Experimental data supporting this model are presented. The evidence that manipulation of DA synaptic levels induces change in the BP of several D2 radiotracers (catecholamines and benzamides) is unequivocal. The fact that these changes in BP are mediated by changes in DA synaptic concentration is well documented. The relationship between the magnitude of BP changes measured with PET or SPECT and the magnitude of changes in DA concentration measured by microdialysis supports the use of these noninvasive techniques to measure changes in neurotransmission. On the other hand, several observations remain unexplained. First, the amphetamine-induced changes in the BP of D2 receptor antagonists [123I]IBZM and [11C]raclopride last longer than amphetamine-induced changes in DA extracellular concentration. Second, nonbenzamide D2 receptor antagonists, such as spiperone and pimozide, are not affected by changes in DA release, or are affected in a direction opposite to that predicted by the occupancy model. Similar observations are reported with D1 radiotracers. These results suggest that the changes in BP following changes in DA concentration might not be fully accounted by a simple occupancy model. Specifically, the data are reviewed supporting that agonist-mediated receptor internalization might play an important role in characterizing receptor-ligand interactions. Finally, it is proposed that a better understanding of the mechanism underlying the effects observed with benzamides is essential to develop this imaging technique to other receptor systems.

Behavioral and neurochemical alterations after lithium-pilocarpine administration in young and adult rats: a comparative study

Pilocarpine and lithium-pilocarpine can induce seizures and brain damage in adult rats. However, manifestation of cerebral lesions seems to be an age-related phenomenon suggesting that maturational states of neurocircuitry may be involved. We have studied behavior changes, cerebral histopathology, and muscarinic and dopaminergic receptors density in rodents subjected to lithium-pilocarpine treatment. Wistar rats, at two different ages (21 days and 2 months), were treated with pilocarpine (15 mg/kg, SC), lithium (3 mEq/kg, IP), atropine (50 mg/kg, IP) and the combination of lithium to pilocarpine. Histopathologic studies showed that younger animals were more resistant to the development of cerebral changes and there was a preferential involvement of the striatum (Wilcoxon p = 0.02) as opposed to more generalized areas in adult animals such as hippocampus and neocortex. Lithium treatment induced an upregulation of muscarinic receptors at both ages, and this effect was reversed in younger animals after pilocarpine administration. Lithium also induced an upregulation of dopaminergic receptors in the striatum at both ages (p < 0.05), and this effect was not reversed after pilocarpine administration. Our data confirm that young animals show less brain damage after lithium-pilocarpine, and main alterations in dopaminergic receptors density occur in young and older animals after treatment with lithium and lithium combined to a low dose of pilocarpine.

Kinetic and equilibrium analyses of [(123)I]epidepride binding to striatal and extrastriatal dopamine D(2) receptors

Quantitative SPECT measures of dopamine D(2) like receptors with [(123)I]epidepride is complicated by its high affinity and lipophilic metabolites. The purpose of this study was to use both parent (P) and lipophilic metabolites (M) as input functions in a kinetic paradigm and in comparison to the results of equilibrium studies. Kinetic studies on eleven healthy human subjects, ages 32+/- 10 were performed following i.v. injection of approximately 370 MBq of [(123)I]epidepride. Images were acquired for 13.5+/-1.0 hours. Equilibrium studies were done on seven of eleven subjects with a bolus injection of approximately 140 MBq, bolus/infusion ratio of 10 hours, and infusion for 30-32 hours. High (striatum) and low (temporal cortex) density regions were studied. Two (P and M) and one (P) input function models were applied in the kinetic studies. In receptor-rich regions, the distribution volumes in nondisplaceable compartments were fixed to those in cerebellum. In addition, in the two input function model, K(1)(P)/K(1)(M) was fixed to the values in the cerebellum. The one input function model provided V'(3) values (=f(1)*B'(max)/K(D)) which were consistent with those obtained in equilibrium studies in both receptor-rich regions, while the two input function model provided consistent values only in striatum. Poor identifiability of the rate constants of metabolites seemed to be the source of errors in the two input function model. These results suggest that correct V'(3) values can be obtained with the one input function model both in high- and low-density regions.

Localization of dopamine receptors in the tree shrew brain using [3H]-SCH23390 and [125I]-epidepride

The tree shrew is a mammalian species, which is phylogenetically related to insectivores and primates. The aim of the present study was to investigate the distribution of dopamine receptor D1- and D2-like binding sites in the brain of this non-rodent, non-primate mammal. Using in vitro autoradiography and employing the radioligands [3H]-SCH23390 and [125I]-epidepride, dopamine receptors were mapped and quantified. Significant findings with regard to the D1-like binding pattern include the presence of a "patchy" binding in the striatum. In the cortex, D1-like binding sites were observed in both the superficial and the deep layers. In the hippocampal formation, D1-like binding sites were seen primarily in the CAI region and not in the dentate gyrus. These characteristics of the D1 pattern in the tree shrew brain are shared by cat and monkey and human brain, but not by rodent brain. Significant findings with regard to the D2-like binding pattern include the presence of D2-like binding in the claustrum. In addition, the striatum demonstrated "patchy" D2-like binding. These characteristics of the D2 pattern in the tree shrew brain are shared by cat and monkey and human brain, but not by rodent brain. On the other hand, the significant densities of D2-like binding sites in the glomerular layer of the tree shrew olfactory bulb is a finding that discriminates tree shrews from higher evolutionary species who lack such binding. Overall, the evidence coincides with the view that tree shrews are phylogenetically related to primates.

Neurochemical brain imaging investigations of schizophrenia

Neurochemical brain imaging methods developed over the past 20 years offer significant promise for elucidating the biochemical underpinnings of schizophrenia. The two general methodologies used for these studies have been: 1) radiotracer imaging: PET (positron emission tomography) and SPECT (single photon emission computed tomography); and 2) NMR (nuclear magnetic resonance) imaging: fMRI (functional magnetic resonance imaging) and MRS (magnetic resonance spectroscopy). Despite conflicting findings, striatal D2 receptor density may be elevated in some, but not all patients. Elevated synthesis, and increased release of dopamine after amphetamine challenge have also been reported. Imaging of cortical 5-HT2A receptors suggests that this system is unaffected, in conflict with findings of postmortem studies. Although prior postmortem studies suggested an increase in cortical GABAA receptors, three SPECT studies have found no significant changes. MRS studies have shown decreased levels of NAA (N-acetyl-aspartate) moieties in hippocampus and frontal cortex of schizophrenic patients, which is consistent with the reported loss of neurons and neuropil in postmortem brains. In conclusion, developments in radiotracer and NMR imaging have provided promising leads to the biochemical abnormalities associated with schizophrenia. Future significant understanding is likely to occur with the development of new probes and enhanced instrument technology, when applied with an appreciation of the heterogeneity of the disorder and the need for careful clinical assessment of patients.

Early withdrawal from repeated cocaine administration upregulates muscarinic and dopaminergic D2-like receptors in rat neostriatum

The present results show an increase in locomotor activity 24 h following repeated cocaine administration only with the higher dose (10 mg/kg, i.p., daily for 1 week) compared to controls (administered with saline). Binding assays were done and the ligands used were [3H]N-methylscopolamine ([3H]-NMS), [3H]-SCH 23390, and [3H]-spiroperidol to determine muscarinic (M1- and M2-like), D1 and D2 receptors, respectively. Scatchard analyses revealed alterations in Bmax not only for muscarinic, but also for D2-like receptors that were significantly increased. On the other hand, no alterations were detected on D1-like receptors densities and dissociation constant values. However, the Kd value was significantly increased for D2 receptors. The changes in muscarinic receptors were observed predominantly on M2-like, which presented an increase of 84% with the 10 mg/kg, i.p., dose only. On D2-like receptors, increases of 63 and 54% were demonstrated with the doses of 5 and 10 mg/kg, i.p.. The preferential effects of cocaine on muscarinic and D2-like receptors were also demonstrated in vitro where decreases in [3H]-NMS and [3H]-spiroperidol binding were observed. The results indicate that the effects of cocaine on muscarinic and dopaminergic postsynaptic receptors are functions of dose, duration of treatment, and time of drug withdrawal.

First-pass cerebral extraction of benzamide-derivative radiotracers for SPECT

Central dopaminergic receptors are widely studied for their importance in the pathophysiology of neurological and psychiatric diseases. We have investigated the cerebral delivery kinetics of three dopaminergic ligands in rats through the use of an indicator fractionation method to measure the tracer's regional influx rate constant with respect to regional blood flow. The aim is to collect the in vivo kinetic parameters of the radioligand cerebral distribution, which are necessary if, dealing with SPECT and "trapped" tracers, one wishes to analyse data using a graphical approach.

Modulation of basal ganglia neurotransmission by the classical antipsychotic fluphenazine is due in part to the blockade of dopamine D1-receptors

Classical antipsychotics, such as fluphenazine, influence neurotransmission by blocking both dopamine D1- and D2-receptors which in turn results in widespread adaptive changes in the neurochemistry of the basal ganglia. The purpose of the present study was to determine the role of D1-receptors in mediating some of these neurochemical events, including changes in D1- and D2-receptor binding, and the expression of preproenkephalin and glutamic acid decarboxylase mRNAs. For these experiments, rats were given a depot injection of fluphenazine decanoate or injected twice daily for 21 days with the D1-receptor antagonist SCH-23390. An additional group received both fluphenazine and SCH-23390 and controls were given saline. Fluphenazine administration decreased D2-receptor binding throughout the basal ganglia while SCH-23390 was without effect. In contrast to the uniform reduction in D2-receptor binding, fluphenazine altered D1-receptor binding in a region-dependent manner. Region-dependent changes were also observed in animals given SCH-23390 which increased binding in the entopeduncular nucleus and posterior caudate-putamen without affecting other brain regions. Both fluphenazine and SCH-23390 significantly enhanced preproenkephalin and glutamic acid decarboxylase (GAD) mRNA expression in the anterior striatum. Fluphenazine also increased GAD mRNA levels in the entopeduncular nucleus. Together, these results indicate that the attenuation of D1-receptor-mediated neurotransmission modulates a number of clinically relevant neurochemical processes in the basal ganglia.

Striatal and extrastriatal imaging of dopamine D2 receptors in the living human brain with [123I]epidepride single-photon emission tomography

The iodine-123 labelled ligand benzamide epidepride was evaluated as a probe for in vivo imaging of striatal and extrastriatal dopamine D2 receptor sites in the human brain. Four healthy males were imaged with a high-resolution single-photon emission tomography scanner. Striatal radioactivity peaked at 3 h after injection. The specific binding in the striatum was 0.91+/-0.03 at 3 h and this ratio steadily increased with time. Extrastriatal radioactivity was highest in the thalamus, in the midbrain and in the temporal cortex, and peaked at 45-60 min after injection of tracer. A smaller amount of radioactivity was found in the parietal, frontal and occipital cortices. Two radioactive metabolites were observed, of which one was more lipophilic than the parent compound. The radiation burden to the patient was 0.035 mSv/MBq (effective dose equivalent). The preliminary results showed that [123I]epidepride can be used for imaging striatal and extrastriatal dopamine D2 receptor sites in the living human brain.

Effects of naloxone on amphetamine induced striatal dopamine release in vivo: a microdialysis study

The opiate antagonist naloxone (NX) alters amphetamine (AMPH) induced behaviors including locomotor activity, rearing and stereotypy. However, the exact nature of the NX induced alteration of AMPH induced behaviors is controversial, with some studies using high (5-40 mg/kg) doses of NX reporting an inhibition, and others using low (< or = 1-2 mg/kg) doses observing a potentiation. As these behaviors are mediated by AMPH induced dopamine (DA) release, the effect of NX on the latter was examined by microdialysis in an effort to resolve the controversy. Saline and NX pretreated groups subsequently administered AMPH were compared in vivo across nine separate 10 min intervals as well as by grouped intervals. NX alone (0.8 mg/kg) and saline exerted statistically equivalent effects on striatal DA release with the exception of the fifth interval, where a small but significant increase was seen after NX. On the other hand, the same dose of NX significantly enhanced AMPH induced striatal DA release relative to saline pretreated animals during each of four separate intervals, from 30 to 70 minutes following AMPH (1.5 mg/kg), and across all nine intervals combined. NX pretreatment (0.8 mg/kg) followed by a higher dose of AMPH (3.0 mg/kg) produced a significantly greater cumulative effect on DA release than saline pretreatment over the last six combined intervals (30-90 min) and over two grouped intervals (30-50 min and 40-60 min inclusive). However, a comparison of single rather than paired or grouped intervals revealed no significant differences. Previous studies have also examined the effect of NX on AMPH induced striatal DA release using in vivo microdialysis. However, the doses used were invariably high (5 mg/kg) and the results on striatal DA release always inhibitory. The present results suggest that NX potentiates AMPH induced striatal DA release when lower doses of NX are used. These results combined with those of previous studies also suggest that NX exerts a biphasic effect on AMPH induced DA release, with lower doses potentiating release and higher doses inhibiting release. This is close agreement with behavioral observations and may be due to the effect of low versus high doses of NX on intraterminal calcium influx.

The effect of naloxone on spontaneous and evoked dopamine release in the central and peripheral nervous systems

A number of studies have reported that the opiate antagonist naloxone (NX) inhibits behaviors dependent upon central dopamine (DA) release. However, equally compelling evidence from other studies suggests that NX excites a facilitatory effect. The present review was undertaken to resolve the issue by critically evaluating the effects of NX on DA release; the substrate subserving these behaviors. Included are studies reporting an effect of NX on spontaneous as well as drug altered DA release in various central regions. In the preponderant majority of these studies, NX was found to significantly enhance DA release in the virtually every major DA pathway, irrespective of whether DA release was initially stimulated or inhibited by various agents. It is concluded that NX most probably enhances behaviors induced by DA release, especially when administered in low, specific doses. Studies finding an inhibitory effect of NX on such behaviors may inadvertently produce conditions which mask the stimulatory effects of NX on DA release-dependent behaviors.

Preparation of [76Br]FLB 457 and [76Br]FLB 463 for examination of striatal and extrastriatal dopamine D-2 receptors with PET

Both FLB 457 and FLB 463, two substituted benzamides with high affinity for the dopamine D-2 receptors, were labeled with bromine-76 for PET investigations. [76Br]FLB 457 was prepared by electrophilic substitution of the tributyltin precursor. The radiochemical yield was 80%. [76Br]FLB 463 was prepared by a direct electrophilic substitution enhanced by the hydroxyl group of the debromo analogue, with a total radiochemical yield of 50%. Radiochemical and chemical purity values of the radioligands as analyzed by radio-TLC and HPLC were > 99%, and the specific radioactivity was -40 GBq/mumol. During PET examinations of [76Br]FLB 457 and [76Br]FLB 463 binding in baboons there was a rapid and high uptake in the striatum. The striatal radioactivity concentration reached a plateau 1 h postinjection (p.i.). The striatum-to-cerebellum radioactivity concentration ratio increased from 11 at 1 h p.i., to 28 at 4 h p.i. for [76Br]FLB 457, owing to a continuous wash-out from the cerebellum. For [76Br]FLB 463 the corresponding value increased from 10 to 19.5. [76Br]FLB 457 has in contrast to [76Br]FLB 463 a high uptake in thalamic structures and has therefore an additional potential as a radioligand for PET examination of extrastriatal dopamine D-2 receptors in the living human brain.

Critical reevaluation of spiperone and benzamide binding to dopamine D2 receptors: evidence for identical binding sites

There are several inconsistencies in the literature as regards the characteristics of benzamide and butyrophenone binding to dopamine D2-like receptors. The variations observed in Bmax, Kd and Ki values have led to hypotheses, such as the existence of a specific "benzamide binding site' and that dopamine D2 receptors exist in a monomer-dimer equilibrium, where benzamides are supposed to bind receptor monomers and butyrophenones receptor dimers. We have previously suggested that the discrepant results may instead be related to methodological difficulties associated with the use of very high-affinity radioligands (e.g. ligand depletion and failure to achieve equilibrium). The present study was designed to reinvestigate and critically reevaluate the binding characteristics of [3H]spiperone, [3H]nemonapride, [125I](S)-3-iodo-N-[(1-ethyl-2-pyrrolidinyl)methyl]-5,6- dimethylsalicylamide ([125I]NCQ-298) and [3H]raclopride to cloned human dopamine D2A and rat striatal dopamine D2 receptors in order to establish whether they label the same receptor population. We found that the Kd values of [3H]spiperone, [125I]NCQ-298 and [3H]nemonapride were about 20 pM and that of [3H]raclopride about 1 nM. We did not find any significant differences between the Bmax values determined with the various radioligands. Furthermore, the Ki values of spiperone and NCQ-298 (derived from cross-competition studies) for dopamine D2 receptors labelled with either [3H]spiperone or [125I]NCQ-298 were in good agreement with the corresponding Kd values. In conclusion, our results clearly demonstrate that when studied under correct experimental conditions, all four radioligands label an identical receptor population.

Effects of a D2 receptor agonist RO 41-9067 alone and with clonidine on sleep parameters in the rat

The effects of RO 41-9067, a D2 dopamine receptors agonist, on different sleep parameters were studied in the rat. RO 41-9067 dose dependently decreased paradoxical sleep, and only at the higher dose increased waking during the light period. In contrast, the higher dose of RO 41-9067 increased paradoxical sleep and decreased waking during the dark period. Finally, the combination of RO 41-9067 and clonidine significantly prevent the decrease of total sleep time and paradoxical sleep found after clonidine alone. These results, compared with those of classical D2 dopamine receptors agonists, suggest an action for RO 41-9067 on D2 dopamine receptors depending on the cerebral structure, a different action particularly on the striatum and/or on the structures responsible for paradoxical sleep. An active role for D2 dopamine receptors and an interaction between noradrenergic and dopaminergic systems in the regulation of sleep is proposed.

Regulation and functional characterization of a rat recombinant dopamine D3 receptor

We stably expressed a rat D3 receptor cDNA in C6 glioma cells (C6-D3 cells), quantifying receptor expression with the radioligands [125I]epidepride (KD = 0.1 nM) and [3H]spiperone (KD = 0.7 nM). As reported previously for D2 receptors, quinpirole induced a 9-16% increase in the rate of extracellular acidification by C6-D3 cells. The acidification was inhibited by epidepride and by the Na+/H+ antiporter inhibitors, amiloride and methylisobutylamiloride, but pertussis toxin treatment had no effect on quinpirole-induced extracellular acidification. These data suggest that D3 receptor stimulation of Na+/H+ exchange in C6 glioma cells is not mediated by the pertussis toxin-sensitive G proteins, Gi or G(o). Overnight treatment of C6-D3 cells with N-propylnorapomorphine, dopamine, or quinpirole resulted in large concentration-dependent increases (up to 500%) in the density of D3 receptors on membranes prepared from the cells. Antagonists had smaller, variable effects on the density of D3 receptors in C6-D3 cells, except for domperidone, which significantly increased the density of D3 receptors. Treatment with pertussis toxin had no effect on the agonist-induced receptor up-regulation, indicating that an interaction with pertussis toxin-sensitive G proteins was not required. Densitometry analysis of Northern blots of RNA prepared from C6-D3 cells showed no significant N-propylnorapomorphine-induced increase in D3 receptor message. Treatment with cycloheximide, however, completely prevented receptor up-regulation by N-propylnorapomorphine. Pretreatment of C6-D2 cells with 10 microM DA resulted in a substantial heterologous sensitization, in which isoproterenol-stimulated adenylyl cyclase activity was enhanced more than twofold.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

D1- and D2 dopaminergic receptors in the developing cerebral cortex of macaque monkey: a film autoradiographic study

Film autoradiography was used to study the distribution of D1- and D2-dopaminergic receptors in the prefrontal association, somatosensory, primary motor and visual regions in the developing cerebral cortex of macaque monkeys. D1 receptors were labeled with [125I]SCH23982, while D2 sites were visualized with [125I]epidepride. D1- and D2-dopaminergic sites are already present in all cortical areas at embryonic day 73, the earliest age observed in this study. In contrast to the adult cortex, where D1 and D2 receptors have different distributions, during development there are substantial similarities in the laminar patterns of these sites. In particular, both D1 and D2 receptors tend to concentrate in the marginal zone and layer V of the developing cortical plate. The autoradiograms also show a high density of D1-dopaminergic sites in the transient ventricular and subventricular zones, where cortical neurons are generated. Although there is a significant rearrangement of the early laminar patterns, the adult distribution of both dopaminergic receptors in most cortical areas is achieved prenatally, soon after all cortical neurons assume their final positions. An early presence in the cerebral wall, a high density in the proliferative zones and fast maturation of the laminar distribution suggests that dopaminergic receptors may be involved in the regulation of cortical development.

SPECT imaging of dopamine receptors with [123I]epidepride: characterization of uptake in the human brain

[123I]Epidepride is a new ligand for single photon emission computerized tomography (SPECT) that specifically labels D2-like dopamine receptors with very high affinity. Here, we report on the regional kinetic uptake of [123I]epidepride in the brain of 4 normal volunteers and 3 patients with choreatic movement disorders. In healthy subjects striatal activity peaked at 2.5 hours after injection of the tracer and decreased slowly thereafter. There were no significant differences between left and right brain hemispheres. Activity above background was also measurable in areas corresponding to the thalamus, temporal cortex and frontal cortex. The striatal to cerebellar ratio was about 14 after 2.5 hours and this ratio steadily increased with time. The striatal to cerebellar ratio was clearly reduced in all 3 patients with choreatic movement disorders (from about 14 in control subjects after 2.5 hours to about 7 in choreatic patients). [123I]Epidepride may be a useful SPECT ligand for studying D2 receptors in the living human brain because of its high target to background ratio, its high affinity and the possibility to investigate extrastriatal D2 receptors.

Autoradiographic distribution of [3H]YM-09151-2, a high-affinity and selective antagonist ligand for the dopamine D2 receptor group, in the rat brain and spinal cord

We determined the regional distribution of the dopamine D2 receptor group in the rat central nervous system by quantitative receptor autoradiography with a high-affinity and selective antagonist, [3H]YM-09151-2. Saturation and competition experiments demonstrated that the binding of [3H]YM-09151-2 to striatal sections was saturable (Bmax = 37.3 fmol/section), of high affinity (Kd = 0.315 nM), and was inhibited selectively by prototypic D2 ligands. The anatomical localization of binding sites was determined by comparison of autoradiograms and the original 3H-ligand-exposed sections stained with cresyl violet. Very high levels of [3H]YM-09151-2 binding were found in the caudate-putamen, nucleus accumbens, tuberculum olfactorium and the insula of Calleja, to each of which midbrain dopaminergic neurons project densely. High levels of binding were also observed in other regions rich in dopaminergic neurons and fibers including the glomerular layer of the olfactory bulb, the intermediate lobe of the pituitary, lateral septum, substantia nigra pars compacta, interfascicular nucleus, dorsal raphe nucleus, locus coeruleus, and nucleus of the solitary tract. Some regions poor in dopaminergic innervation, however, had high levels of [3H]YM-09151-2 binding including the molecular layer of gyrus dentatus, all layers of CA1 and the nonpyramidal layer of CA4 of hippocampus, and the deeper layer of medial entorhinal cortex. Motor neurons present in brainstem motor nuclei and spinal ventral horn were also strongly labeled. Neocortical, cerebellar, and thalamic regions had low levels of binding, except lobules 9-10 of the cerebellum, the olivary pretectal nucleus, zona incerta and lateral mammillary nucleus, in which moderate to high levels of binding were detected. Our findings concerning the widespread but region-specific localization of [3H]YM-09151-2 binding sites in the brain and spinal cord may prove useful for analyzing various dopaminergic functions in the central nervous system.

Aromatic and amine substituent effects on the apparent lipophilicities of N-[(2-pyrrolidinyl)methyl]-substituted benzamides

Lipophilic properties of 92 dopamine D-2 receptor antagonists belonging to the substituted benzamide class of compounds (orthopramides and methoxysalicylamides) were determined by octadecylsilane reversed-phase HPLC. The apparent lipophilicity at pH 7.5 (log kw) was obtained from the chromatographic capacity factors in 0.02 M3-(morpholino)propanesulfonic acid (MOPS) buffer at various concentrations of methanol. The experimental log kw values were validated by comparison with the apparent octanol-water partitioning (log Papp) of 15 compounds of low to medium lipophilicity. The global lipophilicity of the neutral molecule (log kwo) was obtained by correcting for ionization of the amine and the phenol, using known relationships for the effects on the pKa (where Ka is the dissociation constant) of aromatic and aliphatic substituents. Multiple regression analysis showed that log kwo can be expressed as the sum of pi contributions and a cross correlation term (sigma rho sigma) for interactions between the aromatic substituents. Comparison between the methoxysalicylamide (raclopride) series and the orthopramide (sulpiride) series demonstrated that an aromatic 6-hydroxy group increased log kw by 0.4 in the 5-halogen series and by 0.8 in the 5-alkyl series, and that a 6-methoxy group decreased log kw by 0.5. These paradoxical effects can be explained by the masking of the polarity of the amide caused by the 6-hydroxy group forming an intramolecular hydrogen bond with the amide carbonyl group. Introduction of an additional ortho-methoxy substituent had the opposite effect because the resulting steric hindrance prevents the amide moiety from adopting a coplanar conformation with the benzene ring. The presence of a substituent in the aromatic 3-position lowered log kw by 0.3 via a combination of steric and electronic influences on the adjacent 2-methoxy group, causing a weakening of the hydrogen bond between the amide and the oxygen atom of the 2-methoxy group. As a result, halogen and alkyl substituents in the 3-position increase the apparent lipophilicity only half that of similar substituents in the 5-position. Substitution with omega-fluoroalkoxyl groups in the aromatic 2- and 3-positions and with omega-fluoroalkyl groups in the 5-position reduced lipophilicities by 0.5 as compared with the corresponding desfluoro derivatives, thereby making them equivalent to an alkyl derivative with one less carbon atom in the chain. In contrast, substitution on the pyrrolidine nitrogen atom with a 2-fluoroethyl or a 3-fluoropropyl group produced compounds with apparent lipophilicities approximately 1.5 and approximately 0.5 higher, respectively, than those of the corresponding N-ethyl derivatives.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)

Evaluation of 5-[18F]fluoropropylepidepride as a potential PET radioligand for imaging dopamine D2 receptors

This study evaluated the utility of (S)-N-[(1-ethyl-2-pyrrolidinyl)methyl]-5-(3-[18F]fluoropropyl)-2,3 - dimethoxybenzamide ([18F]fluorpropylepidepride), [18F]5-FPrEpid, as a ligand for PET studies of cerebral dopamine D2 receptors. The in vitro affinity for the rat striatal dopamine D2 receptor, KD 138 pM, was determined by Scatchard analysis of in vitro binding to rat striatal homogenate. The apparent lipophilicity, log kw 1.6, was measured with reverse phase HPLC at pH 7.5. The receptor specificity was determined by competitive displacement of [18F]5-FPrEpid by a variety of neurotransmitter ligands. Only dopamine D2 ligands displaced [18F]5-FPrEpid with high affinity. Positron tomographic imaging studies in primates of [18F]5-FPrEpid demonstrated a stable striatal uptake of 0.02% injected dose/ml for up to 5 h after injection. The striatal: cerebellar ratio increased from 2 at 15 min, to 7 at 200 min, and to 10 at 300 min. Striatal uptake was displaceable by haloperidol (1 mg/kg) or raclopride (2.5 mg/kg) to cerebellar levels with a t1/2 of washout of 9 or 15 min. Striatal uptake was mildly susceptible to displacement by d-amphetamine (1-2 mg/kg) released endogenous dopamine; d-amphetamine administration produced a 10% h increase in the rate of striatal washout. Although uptake in the striatum is reversible, an equilibrium between receptor bound [18F]5-FPrEpid in striatum and [18F]5-FPrEpid in plasma is not reached within 5 h postinjection.

Failure of the three compartment model to describe the pharmacokinetics in brain of a high affinity substituted benzamide

The applicability of using the standard 3-compartment model to describe the neuropharmacokinetics of a high affinity substituted benzamide was investigated. We performed the following experiments using the [18F]-5-(3-fluoropropyl) analog of epidepride ([18F]5-FPrEpid), a potent dopamine D2 receptor antagonist: constant left ventricular infusion, first-pass clearance, varying ligand specific activity, and displacing bound ligand with varying amounts of unlabelled ligand. Taken together, the information from these experiments rigorously tests the standard 3-compartment model. The obtained data and predictions from the model of the kinetic behavior of the ligand are inconsistent. The measured and model predicted dissociation rate (measured koff = 0.065 min-1, model prediction koff = 0.007 min-1) and the equilibrium dissociation constant (measured KD = 0.14 nM, model prediction KD = 2.2 nM) differ by an order of magnitude. Furthermore, the model cannot be used to accurately estimate the receptor density. We postulate that the synapse geometry and physical relationship between receptors are necessary components of a model that describes the pharmacokinetics of [18F]5-FPrEpid.

Identification of extrastriatal dopamine D2 receptors in post mortem human brain with [125I]epidepride

The regional distribution of striatal and extrastriatal dopamine D2 receptors in human brain was studied in vitro with (S)-N-[(1-ethyl-2- pyrrolidinyl)methyl]-5-[125I]iodo-2,3-dimethoxybenzamide, [125I]epidepride, using post mortem brain specimens from six subjects. Scatchard analysis of the saturation equilibrium binding in twenty-three regions of post mortem brain revealed highest levels of binding in the caudate (16.5 pmol/g tissue) and putamen (16.6 pmol/g tissue) with lower levels seen in the globus pallidus (7.0 pmol/g tissue), nucleus accumbens (7.2 pmol/g tissue), hypothalamus (1.8 pmol/g tissue), pituitary (1.3 pmol/g tissue), substantia innominata (1.0 pmol/g tissue), and amygdala (0.87 pmol/g tissue). Of note was the presence of dopamine D2 receptors in the four thalamic nuclei studied, i.e. anterior nucleus (1.0 pmol/g tissue), dorsomedial nucleus (0.96 pmol/g tissue), ventral nuclei (0.72 pmol/g tissue), and pulvinar (0.86 pmol/g tissue), at levels comparable to the amygdala (0.87 pmol/g tissue) and considerably higher than levels seen in anterior cingulate (0.26 pmol/g tissue) or anterior hippocampus (0.36 pmol/g tissue). The frontal cortex had very low levels of dopamine D2 receptors (0.17-0.20 pmol/g tissue) while the inferior and medial temporal cortex had relatively higher levels (0.31-0.46 pmol/g tissue). Inhibition of [125I]epidepride binding by a variety of neurotransmitter ligands to striatal, ventral thalamic and inferior temporal cortical homogenates demonstrated that [125I]epidepride binding was potently inhibited only by dopamine D2 ligands. The present study demonstrates that dopamine D2 receptors are present in basal ganglia, many limbic regions, cortex and in the thalamus. The density of thalamic D2 receptors is comparable to many limbic regions and is considerably higher than in cortex.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

High affinity dopamine D2 receptor radioligands. 3. [123I] and [125I]epidepride: in vivo studies in rhesus monkey brain and comparison with in vitro pharmacokinetics in rat brain

Studies of [123I]epidepride uptake in rhesus monkey brain were performed using single photon tomography. Striatal uptake peaked at 0.85% of administered dose/g at 107 min post-injection, then declined slowly to 0.70% of administered dose/g at 6 h. Striatal:posterior brain ratios rose from 2 at 25 min to 6.8 at 105 min, to 15 at 4 h and to 58 at 6.4 h. [123I]Epidepride was displaced by haloperidol (0.1 and 1 mg/kg) with a half-life of washout of 55 min. Little displacement of [123I]epidepride was observed following administration of 1 or 2 mg/kg d-amphetamine, respectively, indicating [123I]epidepride is not easily displaced by endogenous dopamine. In vitro equilibrium binding studies using rat striatum revealed a KD of 46 pM and Bmax of 33 pmol/g tissue at 37 degrees C, while at 25 degrees C the KD was 25 pM and the Bmax 32 pmol/g tissue. In vitro kinetic analysis of association and dissociation curves revealed a half-life for receptor dissociation at 37 degrees C of 15 min and 79-90 min at 25 degrees C. Allowing for the temperature difference, there is good correspondence between in vivo and in vitro dissociation kinetics at 25 degrees C. Increasing in vitro incubation temperature from 25 to 37 degrees C caused a 6-fold increase in the dissociation rate, suggesting that there is a change in binding kinetics at the dopamine D2 receptor at 37 degrees C compared to in vivo binding. The results of this study indicate that [123I]epidepride is an excellent radioligand for SPECT studies of the dopamine D2 receptor in man.

Neural dopamine D2 receptors in rats fed endophyte-infected fescue seed

To study the effect of endophyte (Acremonium coenophialum) on hypothalamic and striatal dopamine D2 receptors, male rats (n = 14/group) were pair-fed diets containing 50% Rat Chow and 50% either endophyte-infected (E+) or noninfected (E-) fescue (Festuca arundinacea Schreb.) seed for 21 days. Concentrations of ergovaline and saturated pyrrolizidines were 1.91 micrograms/g and 2.84 mg/g, respectively in E+, and undetectable in E- fescue seed. To monitor endophyte effects, rats were weighed weekly and serum derived from trunk blood (d 21) was analyzed for prolactin. Corpus striatum and hypothalamic tissue was assayed for dopamine D2 receptors using [3H]spiperone and [125I]epidepride, respectively. The endophyte depressed (P < .06) serum prolactin concentrations. Average daily gain during the study (21 d) was depressed (P < .0043) in rats fed E+ compared to controls. The endophyte increased (P < .03) striatal D2 receptor affinity (KD = 48.70 vs 54.95 pM) with no change (P > .28) in receptor density (Bmax = 25.59 vs 28.00 pmol/mg of tissue) in E+ and E- rats, respectively. Hypothalamic D2 receptor density (Bmax = 1.79 vs 1.57 pmol/mg of tissue) and affinity (KD = 17.5 vs 17.26 pM) were not (P > .66) different between E+ and E- rats, respectively. These data suggest changes in D2 receptor binding characteristics, particularly receptor affinity, may contribute to signs of fescue toxicosis.