Carbachol induces a rapid and sustained hydrolysis of polyphosphoinositide in bovine tracheal smooth muscle measurements of the mass of polyphosphoinositides, 1,2-diacylglycerol, and phosphatidic acid

Muscarinic receptors on airway mesenchymal cells: novel findings for an ancient target

Since ancient times, anticholinergics have been used as a bronchodilator therapy for obstructive lung diseases. Targets of these drugs are G-protein-coupled muscarinic M(1), M(2) and M(3) receptors in the airways, which have long been recognized to regulate vagally-induced airway smooth muscle contraction and mucus secretion. However, recent studies have revealed that acetylcholine also exerts pro-inflammatory, pro-proliferative and pro-fibrotic actions in the airways, which may involve muscarinic receptor stimulation on mesenchymal, epithelial and inflammatory cells. Moreover, acetylcholine in the airways may not only be derived from vagal nerves, but also from non-neuronal cells, including epithelial and inflammatory cells. Airway smooth muscle cells seem to play a major role in the effects of acetylcholine on airway function. It has become apparent that these cells are multipotent cells that may reversibly adopt (hyper)contractile, proliferative and synthetic phenotypes, which are all under control of muscarinic receptors and differentially involved in bronchoconstriction, airway remodeling and inflammation. Cholinergic contractile tone is increased by airway inflammation associated with asthma and COPD, resulting from exaggerated acetylcholine release as well as increased expression of contraction related proteins in airway smooth muscle. Moreover, muscarinic receptor stimulation promotes proliferation of airway smooth muscle cells as well as fibroblasts, and regulates cytokine, chemokine and extracellular matrix production by these cells, which may contribute to airway smooth muscle growth, airway fibrosis and inflammation. In line, animal models of chronic allergic asthma and COPD have recently demonstrated that tiotropium may potently inhibit airway inflammation and remodeling. These observations indicate that muscarinic receptors have a much larger role in the pathophysiology of obstructive airway diseases than previously thought, which may have important therapeutic implications.

Differential Rho-kinase dependency of full and partial muscarinic receptor agonists in airway smooth muscle contraction

In airway smooth muscle (ASM), full and partial muscarinic receptor agonists have been described to have large differences in their ability to induce signal transduction, including Ca2+-mobilization. Despite these differences, partial agonists are capable of inducing a submaximal to maximal ASM contraction. To further elucidate transductional differences between full and partial muscarinic receptor agonists, we investigated the contribution of Rho-kinase (an important regulator of Ca2+-sensitization) to methacholine-, pilocarpine- and McN-A-343-induced bovine tracheal smooth muscle (BTSM) contraction, using the selective Rho-kinase inhibitor Y-27632. In addition, we measured Ca2+-mobilization and -influx in BTSM cells in response to these agonists in the absence and presence of Y-27632. Whereas treatment with Y-27632 (1 microM) significantly decreased potency (pEC50) for all agonists, maximal contraction (Emax) was reduced by 23.4+/-2.8 and 50.4+/-7.9% for the partial agonists pilocarpine and McN-A-343, respectively, but was unaffected for the full agonist methacholine. However, Emax of methacholine became Rho-kinase dependent after taking away its receptor reserve using the irreversible muscarinic receptor antagonist propylbenzilylcholine mustard. Pilocarpine and McN-A-343 induced a very small Ca2+-mobilization and -influx as compared to methacholine. In addition, an inverse relationship of these two parameters with the Rho-kinase dependency was observed. Interestingly, no inhibitory effects of Y-27632 were observed on Ca2+-mobilization and-influx for all three agonists, indicating that the effects of Y-27632 on contraction are most likely on the level of Ca2+-sensitization. In conclusion, in contrast to the full agonist methacholine, the partial muscarinic receptor agonists pilocarpine and McN-A-343 are dependent on Rho-kinase for their maximal contractile effects, presumably as a consequence of differences in transductional reserve, indicating an agonist-dependent role for Rho-kinase in ASM contraction. Moreover, an inverse relationship exists between Rho-kinase dependency and both Ca2+-mobilization and Ca2+-influx for these agonists.

The airway cholinergic system: physiology and pharmacology

The present review summarizes the current knowledge of the cholinergic systems in the airways with special emphasis on the role of acetylcholine both as neurotransmitter in ganglia and postganglionic parasympathetic nerves and as non-neuronal paracrine mediator. The different cholinoceptors, various nicotinic and muscarinic receptors, as well as their signalling mechanisms are presented. The complex ganglionic and prejunctional mechanisms controlling the release of acetylcholine are explained, and it is discussed whether changes in transmitter release could be involved in airway dysfunctions. The effects of acetylcholine on different target cells, smooth muscles, nerves, surface epithelial and secretory cells as well as mast cells are described in detail, including the receptor subtypes involved in signal transmission.

Agonist-induced phasic and tonic responses in smooth muscle are mediated by InsP3

Many cellular functions are regulated by agonist-induced InsP3-evoked Ca2+ release from the internal store. In non-excitable cells, predominantly, the initial Ca2+release from the store by InsP3 is followed by a more sustained elevation in [Ca2+]i via store-operated Ca2+ channels as a consequence of depletion of the store. Here, in smooth muscle, we report that the initial transient increase in Ca2+, from the internal store, is followed by a sustained response also as a consequence of depletion of the store (by InsP3), but, influx occurs via voltage-dependent Ca2+ channels. Contractions were measured in pieces of whole distal colon and membrane currents and [Ca2+]i in single colonic myocytes. Carbachol evoked phasic and tonic contractions; only the latter were abolished in Ca2+-free solution. The tonic component was blocked by the voltage-dependent Ca2+ channel blocker nimodipine but not by the store-operated channel blocker SKF 96365. InsP3 receptor inhibition, with 2-APB, attenuated both the phasic and tonic components. InsP3 may regulate tonic contractions via sarcolemma Ca2+ entry. In single cells,depolarisation (to ∼-20 mV) elevated [Ca2+]i and activated spontaneous transient outward currents (STOCs). CCh suppressed STOCs, as did caffeine and InsP3. InsP3 receptor blockade by 2-APB or heparin prevented CCh suppression of STOCs; protein kinase inhibition by H-7 or PKC19-36did not. InsP3 suppressed STOCs by depleting a Ca2+ store accessed separately by the ryanodine receptor (RyR). Thus depletion of the store by RyR activators abolished the InsP3-evoked Ca2+ transient. RyR inhibition (by tetracaine) reduced only STOCs but not the InsP3transient. InsP3 contributes to both phasic and tonic contractions. In the former, muscarinic receptor-evoked InsP3 releases Ca2+ from an internal store accessed by both InsP3 and RyR. Depletion of this store by InsP3 alone suppresses STOCs, depolarises the sarcolemma and permits entry of Ca2+ to generate the tonic component. Therefore, by lowering the internal store Ca2+ content,InsP3 may generate a sustained smooth muscle contraction. These results provide a mechanism to account for phasic and tonic smooth muscle contraction following receptor activation.

Phospholipase C-gamma mediates the hydrolysis of phosphatidylinositol, but not of phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphoshate, in carbamylcholine-stimulated islets of langerhans

In pancreatic islets the activation of phospholipase C (PLC) by the muscarinic receptor agonist carbamyolcholine (carbachol) results in the hydrolysis of both phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PtdInsP(2)) and phosphatidylinositol (PtdIns). Here we tested the hypothesis that PtdIns hydrolysis is mediated by PLCgamma1, which is known to be regulated by activation of tyrosine kinases and PtdIns 3-kinase. PtdIns breakdown was more sensitive than that of PtdInsP(2) to the tyrosine kinase inhibitor, genistein. Conversely, the tyrosine phosphatase inhibitor, vanadate, alone promoted PtdIns hydrolysis and acted non-additively with carbachol. Vanadate did not stimulate PtdInsP(2) breakdown. Carbachol also stimulated a rapid (maximal at 1-2 min) tyrosine phosphorylation of several islet proteins, although not of PLCgamma1 itself. Two structurally unrelated inhibitors of PtdIns 3-kinase, wortmannin and LY294002, more effectively attenuated the hyrolysis of PtdIns compared with PtdInsP(2). Adenovirally mediated overexpression of PLCgamma1 significantly increased carbachol-stimulated PtdIns hydrolysis without affecting that of PtdInsP(2). Conversely overexpression of PLCbeta1 up-regulated the PtdInsP(2), but not PtdIns, response. These results indicate that the hydrolysis of PtdIns and PtdInsP(2) are independently regulated in pancreatic islets and that PLCgamma1 selectively mediates the breakdown of PtdIns. The activation mechanism of PLCgamma involves tyrosine phosphorylation (but not of PLCgamma directly) and PtdIns 3-kinase. Our findings point to a novel bifurcation of signaling pathways downstream of muscarinic receptors and suggest that hydrolysis of PtdIns and PtdInsP(2) might serve different physiological ends.

Differential bronchodilatory effects of terbutaline, diltiazem, and aminophylline in canine intraparenchymal airways

OBJECTIVES

Intraparenchymal airways are involved in air flow regulation. Relaxation of intraparenchymal airways to volatile anesthetics varied by topographic location. This study was conducted to determine whether other bronchodilators (terbutaline, diltiazem, and aminophylline) relax bronchiolus to a greater degree than bronchus, as seen with volatile anesthetics.

DESIGN

In vitro, controlled, randomized study.

SETTING

Animal research laboratory.

SUBJECTS

Adult dogs (n = 9).

INTERVENTIONS

Proximal (outer diameter, 4-6 mm) and distal (outer diameter, 0.8-1.5 mm) airway rings of dogs were contracted in tissue baths with the effective concentration of acetylcholine that produces half the maximum response. Airway relaxant dose-response curves were constructed to measure isometric tension after administration of terbutaline (concentration range, 10(-8) to 10(-4) M), diltiazem (concentration range, 3 x 10(-7) to 1 x 10(-4) M), and aminophylline (concentration range, 10(-7) to 10(-4) M).

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

All three bronchodilators caused relaxation of the proximal and distal airways. At the maximum dose, diltiazem (maximum relaxation, 95%+/-2% [proximal], 94%+/-6% [distal]; p > .05) was the most efficacious, followed by terbutaline (maximum relaxation, 72%+/-13% [proximal], 55%+/-9% [distal]; p < .05) and aminophylline (maximum relaxation, 32%+/-10% [proximal], 35%+/-18% [distal]; p > .05. At the concentrations tested, they were equally efficacious. No significant differences in relaxation between proximal and distal airways were noted with diltiazem or aminophylline in the entire dose range. However, terbutaline relaxed the distal airway more than the proximal airway in the entire dose range.

CONCLUSIONS

The results demonstrate that only terbutaline showed a differential airway relaxant effect between proximal and distal airways, as seen with volatile anesthetics.

Modulation of spasmogen-stimulated Ins(1,4,5)P3 generation and functional responses by selective inhibitors of types 3 and 4 phosphodiesterase in airways smooth muscle

1. The effects of isoenzyme-selective inhibitors of phosphodiesterases PDE3 and PDE4 on cyclic AMP concentration, two indices of phosphoinositide hydrolysis, and contractile responses to spasmogens have been investigated in bovine tracheal smooth muscle (BTSM). 2. Neither the PDE3-selective inhibitor ORG 9935, nor the PDE4-selective inhibitor rolipram increased cyclic AMP levels in BTSM. However, rolipram addition in the presence of PDE3 inhibition (ORG 9935; 1 microM) concentration-dependently (-log EC50 (M), 6.55+/-0.15; n = 3) increased cyclic AMP levels to about 70% of the maximal response to the beta-adrenoceptor agonist isoprenaline. 3. Rolipram per se inhibited histamine-stimulated [3H]-inositol (poly)phosphate ([3H]-InsP(X)) accumulation by > 80% (-log EC50 (M), 6.92+/-0.11; n = 3). Although ORG 9935 (1 microM) had little effect on histamine-stimulated [3H]-InsP(X) accumulation alone it greatly facilitated the inhibitory action of rolipram (-log EC50 (M), 8.82+/-0.39; n = 3). The effects of PDE3 and/or PDE4 inhibition on [3H]-InsP(X) accumulation stimulated by muscarinic acetylcholine (mACh) receptor activation were less marked. However, combined PDE3/4 inhibition significantly decreased this response at a submaximal concentration of mACh receptor agonist (carbachol; 1 microM). 4. The greater-than-additive effect of combined PDE3/4 inhibition was also observed at the level of contractile responses to histamine and carbachol. In experiments designed to investigate the effects of PDE3 and/or 4 inhibitors on the carbachol-mediated phasic contraction, additions of rolipram (10 microM) or ORG 9935 (1 microM) were without effect, whereas added together the inhibitors caused a significant (P < 0.01) 40% reduction in the peak phasic contractile response. 5. The effect on contraction correlated with a substantial inhibitory effect of PDE3/4 inhibition on the initial increase in inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (InsP3) accumulation stimulated by spasmogen. Thus, in the presence of ORG 9935 (1 microM) rolipram concentration-dependently inhibited carbachol-stimulated InsP3 accumulation by > or = 50% (-log EC50 (M), 6.77+/-0.21; n = 4). 6. Carbachol (100 microM) addition caused a rapid decrease (by 67% at 10 s) in BTSM cyclic AMP level in the presence of PDE3/4 inhibition. However, omission of Ca2+ from the incubation medium prevented the carbachol-evoked decrease in cyclic AMP and this coincided with a greater inhibition (> or = 80%) of the carbachol-stimulated InsP3 response. 7. These data indicate that combined PDE3 and PDE4 inhibition has greater-than-additive effects on second messenger and functional responses to spasmogens in BTSM. Furthermore, the ability of PDE3/4 inhibition significantly to attenuate mACh receptor-mediated contractile responses, may be, at least in part, attributed to an effect exerted at the level of InsP3 generation.

Interaction of smooth muscle myosin phosphatase with phospholipids

The 130 kDa myosin-binding subunit (MBS) of smooth muscle myosin phosphatase was detected in cytoskeletal, cytosolic, and membrane fractions of T24 cells. Also, MBS was distributed between cytoplasm and plasmalemma in mitotic REF52 cells. These observations prompted this study of the interaction(s) of phospholipids with myosin phosphatase. Using a sedimentation assay, gizzard myosin phosphatase bound to vesicles of acidic phospholipids, i.e. phosphatidylserine (PS), phosphatidylinositol, and phosphatidic acid (PA). Neutral phospholipids did not bind. Binding of PS to myosin phosphatase also was demonstrated by electrophoresis under nondenaturing conditions. Preferential binding of PA, compared to that of the other acidic phospholipids, was indicated. Interaction of acidic phospholipids with myosin phosphatase inhibited phosphatase activity toward phosphorylated myosin. The extent of PS binding with myosin phosphatase decreased on increasing ionic strength and Mg2+ concentration. MBS (M130/M133) and M20 were phosphorylated by protein kinase A to 3 and 1 mol of P/(mol of subunit), respectively. Phosphorylation of the holoenzyme decreased phospholipid binding with recovery of phosphatase activity. Using limited proteolysis of the holoenzyme and various mutants, it was shown that phospholipid binding was associated with the C-terminal part of MBS, Ser 667-Ile 1004, and M20. The phosphorylation site involved in regulation of phospholipid binding is within the C-terminal MBS sequence. These results suggest that myosin phosphatase may interact with membranes and that phosphorylation by protein kinase A could modify this interaction. This mechanism could be important in localization of myosin phosphatase and in targeting substrates at different loci.

Ca2+ transient, cell volume, and microviscosity of the plasma membrane in smooth muscle

Despite pronounced differences by which membrane-depolarizing or phospholipase C-activating stimuli initiate contractile responses, a rise in [Ca2+]i is considered the primary mechanism for induction of smooth muscle contractions. Subsequent to the formation of the well-characterized Ca(2+)4-calmodulin complex, interaction with the catalytic subunit of myosin light chain kinase triggers phosphorylation of 20 kDa myosin light chain and activates actin-dependent Mg2+-ATPase activity, which ultimately leads to the development of tension. The present article reviews the fundamental mechanisms leading to an increase in [Ca2+]i and discusses the biochemical processes involved in the transient and sustained phases of contraction. Moreover, the commentary summarizes current knowledge on the modulatory effect of changes in the microviscosity of the plasma membrane on the Ca2+ transient as well as the contractile response of smooth muscle. Evidence has accumulated that these changes in microviscosity alter the activity of membrane-bound enzymes and affect the generation of endogenous mediators responsible for the regulation of cytosolic Ca2+ concentrations and for the [Ca2+]i-sensitivity of myosin light chain phosphorylation.

Regulation of protein kinases in steady-state contraction of cat gastric smooth muscle

Cat gastric smooth muscle strips were used to investigate the involvement of protein kinases in the steady-state contraction induced by 1 microM acetylcholine or 20 mM KCI. The steady-state contraction induced by acetylcholine or KCl was inhibited by EGTA dose dependently. Voltage-dependent Ca2+ channel antagonists dose dependently inhibited the contractions induced by KCI as well as by acetylcholine. Inhibitory effects of voltage-dependent Ca2+ channel antagonists were significantly more prominent on KCI-induced contractions than on acetylcholine-induced contractions. The acetylcholine-induced contraction was dose dependently inhibited by 8-(N,N-diethylamino)octyl-3,4,5-trimethoxybenzoate (TMB-8, a blocker of intracellular Ca2+ release), but the KCl-induced contraction was not inhibited at all. Therefore both intracellular Ca2+ release and extracellular Ca2+ influx seem to be necessary for the acetylcholine-induced contraction, but intracellular Ca2+ release is not necessary for the KCl-induced contraction. Protein kinase C inhibitors, 10 microM 1-(5-isoquinolinylsulfonyl)-2-methyl-piperazine 2HCl (H-7) and 1 microM staurosporine, significantly inhibited the contraction induced by acetylcholine or KCl. Calmodulin antagonists, 30 microM trifluoperazine and 50 microM N-(6-aminohexyl)-5-chloro-2-naphthalenesulfonamide HCI (W-7), however, significantly inhibited the contraction induced by acetylcholine but not by KCl. A tyrosine kinase inhibitor, 50 microM genistein, did not affect the acetylcholine-induced contraction but significantly inhibited the KCl-induced contraction. These results strongly suggest that the involvement of protein kinases in regulation of the steady-state contraction may be agonist-dependent.

Involvement of protein kinase C in muscarinic agonist-induced contractions of guinea pig ileal longitudinal muscle

1. Carbachol (10(-5) M) caused an initial transient contraction (phasic contraction) and a subsequent late contraction (tonic contraction) in the guinea pig ileum. The phasic contraction was markedly suppressed by calmodulin antagonist W-7, but not by protein kinase C inhibitor H-7. 2. The tonic contraction was suppressed by H-7, but not by W-7. 3. The carbachol-induced phasic contraction in the absence of extracellular Ca2+ was suppressed by both W-7 and H-7. 4. Carbachol (10(-5) M) stimulated the formation of inositol phosphates (IPs) in the guinea pig ileum. The carbachol-induced IPs formation was dependent on the extracellular Ca2+ concentration.

High-density lipoprotein and low-density lipoprotein-mediated signal transduction in cultured human skin fibroblasts

The signalling mechanisms whereby high-density lipoproteins (HDL) and low-density lipoproteins (LDL) affect a number of cellular functions in fibroblasts are unclear. This study has analyzed the influence of HDL3 and LDL on the phosphatidylinositol specific phospholipase C pathway in human skin fibroblasts. Exposure of myo-[2-3H]-inositol prelabelled fibroblasts to HDL3 or LDL elicited major increases in IP1 and minor increases in IP2 and IP3 within 30 s. In fura-2 loaded suspended fibroblasts, HDL3 and LDL increased intracellular Ca2+ concentrations ([Ca2+]i) with comparable rapid, transient kinetics. The dose-profiles for HDL3- and LDL-induced increases in [Ca2+]i were also comparable, with half-maximally and maximally effective concentrations being approximately 15 micrograms/mL and approximately 50 micrograms/mL, respectively. HDL3- and LDL-induced increases in [Ca2+]i were diminished by approximately 60% (vs. control fibroblasts) in thapsigargin-pretreated fibroblasts, indicating that release of Ca2+ from intracellular pools is the major contributor toward lipoprotein-induced increases in [Ca2+]i. Pertussis toxin-pretreatment of cells completely abolished lipoprotein induced Ca(2+)-transient, indicating the involvement of a guanine nucleotide-binding protein in the signalling process. In [3H]-palmitic acid-prelabelled fibroblasts, both HDL3 and LDL were observed to stimulate production of DAG. Activation of protein kinase C (PKC) was analysed by determining the cytosol-to-membrane translocation of both enzymatic activity and immunoreactivity of specific PKC isoforms (alpha, delta, epsilon, and zeta). Stimulation with HDL3 and LDL evoked a rapid (within 2.5 min) translocation of PKC activity, with PKC alpha and PKC epsilon being the isoforms translocated. It is concluded that HDL3 and LDL acutely stimulate a phosphoinositide-specific phospholipase C pathway in human skin fibroblasts. However, the specific cell membrane events mediating this signal transduction remain to be further elucidated.

Kinase activation and smooth muscle contraction in the presence and absence of calcium

PURPOSE

The intracellular signalling mechanisms that modulate the sustained vascular smooth muscle contractions that occur with vasospasm are not well understood. The purpose of this investigation was to examine cell signalling mechanisms that account for sustained vascular smooth muscle contraction, independent of increases in intracellular Ca2+ concentrations ([Ca2+]i).

METHODS

Fresh bovine carotid artery smooth muscles contractile responses were examined in a muscle bath. [Ca2+]i was depleted by use of the extracellular Ca2+ chelator, ethylene glycol-bis(beta-aminoethylether) N,N,N',N'-tetraacetic acid and the intracellular chelator, 1,2-bis(2-aminophenoxy)ethane-N,N,N',N',-tetraacetic acid.

RESULTS

In Ca(2+)-free conditions, depolarizing the membrane with high extracellular KCI failed to elicit a contraction. In addition, in Ca(2+)-free conditions the ([Ca2+]i) was less than 10 nmol/L as determined with the Ca(2+)-indicator, Fura 2. The protein kinase C (PKC) activator, phorbol 12, 13-dibutyrate (PDBu), induced slowly developing sustained contractions in bovine carotid artery smooth muscle, and the magnitude of the contractile response to PDBu (10 nmol/L to 10 mumol/L) was the same in the presence and absence of Ca2+. PDBu induced contractions in Ca(2+)-free conditions were not inhibited by the myosin light chain kinase inhibitor, ML-9 (50 mumol/L), but were inhibited by the PKC inhibitor, staurosporine (50 nmol/L).

CONCLUSIONS

These data suggest that vascular smooth muscle contractions can occur under conditions where the [Ca2+]i is low and fixed and that these contractions may be mediated by PKC.

Effect of vasoconstrictor agents on diacylglycerol content of normal and vasospastic canine basilar arteries in vitro

A causal or supportive relationship between 1,2-diacylglycerol (DAG) content and the maintenance of tonic vasoconstriction was sought in canine basilar arteries treated in vitro with various agents reported to increase DAG levels in other tissues (platelet-derived growth factor, vasopressin, angiotensin II, and endothelin-1) and, conversely, with agents known to activate sustained constriction (high K+, phorbol ester, hemolysate, and endothelin-1). Multiple segments from individual isolated arteries were prepared. Some segments were immediately frozen as controls and others incubated in physiological saline solution at 37 degrees C for either 5 minutes or 30 minutes in the presence or absence of different concentrations of the test materials. Segments were then quickly frozen until homogenized for lipid extraction and DAG assay. The DAG content of samples incubated up to 2 hours in physiological saline solution alone did not significantly differ from that of immediately frozen control samples. Resting DAG content expressed relative to total protein measured in each sample averaged 3.82 +/- 0.26 (standard error of the mean) pmol DAG/microgram of protein (74 samples from 37 arteries). Endothelin at 2 x 10(-7) mol/L led to a statistically significant increase in DAG content of approximately 40% of basal content at 5 and 30 minutes. A smaller increase in DAG attributable to hemolysate (approximately 25%) was statistically significant at 30 minutes, whereas vasopressin provoked a notable decrease in DAG content. The other agents had no effect. No differences in these results were noted between normal canine basilar arteries and arteries constricted in vivo by subarachnoid blood clot before isolation.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Differences in sensitivity to the specific protein kinase C inhibitor Ro31-8220 between small and large bronchioles of the rat

1. The involvement of protein kinase C (PKC) in constriction of small bronchioles has never been investigated. In this study we have examined the effects of the specific PKC inhibitors Ro31-8220 and Ro31-7549 and the non-specific inhibitor H7 on carbachol-, 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT)- and 4 beta-phorbol dibutyrate (4 beta-PDBu)-induced contractions in large and small bronchioles. 2. The study was performed on isolated bronchioles of the rat with internal diameters of 574 microns +/- 11 (small, n = 128), and 1475 microns +/- 32 (large, n = 93), using a Mulvaney-Halpen small vessel myograph. 3. In these preparations 4 beta-PDBu had no effect if added on its own. However, after precontracting with 30 mM K+, 0.5 microM 4 beta-PDBu caused a contractile response of 110.4 +/- 7.0% TK (TK = maximum response to 75 mM K+ in small and 69.3 +/- 6.5% TK in large bronchioles. Ro31-8220, Ro31-7549 and H7 all showed concentration-dependent inhibition of this response. 4. In small bronchioles 10 microM Ro31-8220 shifted both the carbachol and 5-HT concentration-response curves to the right, and reduced the maximum response. In contrast, 10 microM Ro31-8220 had no significant effect on the EC50 to carbachol of larger bronchioles, although the maximum response was reduced, and had no significant effect on the 5-HT concentration-response curve. 200 microM H7 shifted the carbachol concentration--response curve to the right as well as reducing the maximal response in both small and large bronchioles. 5 Large bronchioles exhibited a greater rate of decay of carbachol-induced contraction than did small bronchioles. Pretreatment with Ro31-8220 accelerated the rate of decay.6 Pretreatment with 10 JM Ro3l-8220 caused a small reduction in the response to 75 mM K+ in both small and large bronchioles (small: to 87.8 +/- 3.0% TK; large: to 94.1 +/- 0.8% TK). H7 at 200 JM caused a much larger reduction in both preparations (small: to 75.1 +/- 3.0% TK); large: to 82.7 +/- 0.6% TK).7 Small bronchioles were more sensitive than larger bronchioles to agonists and phorbol ester. The protein kinase inhibitor Ro31-8220 could reduce agonist-induced constriction in small and large bronchioles,as well as reducing or abolishing phorbol ester-induced contractions. Small bronchioles were more sensitive than large bronchioles to Ro31-8220. These results suggest that there is a significant PKC involvement in constriction of bronchioles to carbachol and 5-HT, and that the proportion of the contractile response that can be attributed to PKC is greater in smaller than larger bronchioles.

Effects of membrane depolarization and changes in intra- and extracellular calcium concentration on phosphoinositide hydrolysis in bovine tracheal smooth muscle

Agonist-stimulated phosphoinositide metabolism plays a central role in pharmacomechanical coupling in airways smooth muscle (ASM). In many other tissues and cells, most noteably excitable cells, membrane depolarization or an increase in intracellular Ca2+ ([Ca2+]i) generated by inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (Ins(1,4,5)P3)-induced Ca2+ release or agonist-mediated Ca2+ influx is able to trigger or augment phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PtdIns(4,5)P2) hydrolysis and/or initiate PtdIns4P/PtdIns hydrolysis by direct stimulation of PIC. To assess the importance of these mechanisms in ASM the effects of KCl-induced membrane depolarization, extracellular Ca2+ ([Ca2+]e) chelation, and addition of ionomycin to elevate [Ca2+]i on basal and agonist-stimulated Ins(1,4,5)P3 concentration and [3H]-InsPx accumulation have been examined. Reducing [Ca2+]e from 1.8 mM to 6 or 0.8 microM caused a progressive inhibition of agonist-stimulated [3H]inositol polyphosphate accumulation over 30 min with the histamine-stimulated response being significantly more sensitive to [Ca2+]e chelation than the response to carbachol. In contrast, the initial accumulation of Ins(1,4,5)P3 was completely unaffected by such reductions in [Ca2+]e. Incubation of [3H]inositol-prelabelled BTSM slices with buffer containing 80 mM KCl failed to stimulate [3H]InsPx accumulation, causing instead a small inhibition of carbachol-stimulated [3H]InsPx accumulation with a similar effect seen with respect to Ins(1,4,5)P3 accumulation. Addition of 5 microM ionomycin to BTSM slices similarly did not stimulate Ins(1,4,5)P3 generation and only increased [3H]InsPx accumulation after prolonged stimulation in the presence of high (mM) [Ca2+]e. These data indicated that in ASM, membrane depolarization or physiological increases in [Ca2+]i did not result in either independent activation of PIC or augmentation of initial agonist-stimulated PtdIns(4,5)P2 hydrolysis. However, while the initial agonist-stimulated generation of Ins(1,4,5)P3 was not dependent on [Ca2+]e, a normal plasmalemmal Ca2+ gradient was required to sustain maximal rates of agonist-stimulated PtdIns(4,5)P2 hydrolysis.

Phosphoinositide metabolism in airway smooth muscle

Agonist-stimulated hydrolysis of phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate, which generates inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate and sn-1,2-diacylglycerol, is thought to be one of the major mechanisms underlying pharmacomechanical coupling in airway smooth muscle. This article is a review of the currently available information on phosphoinositide and inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate metabolism in this tissue and includes data on inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate-induced Ca2+ release and the receptor mediating this effect. The final section outlines the potential mechanisms underlying physiological regulation of phosphoinositide metabolism by other second-messenger pathways operative in this tissue.

G protein beta gamma-subunits inhibit purified adenylate cyclase independent of the activation by Ca2+ and calmodulin

Adenylate cyclase purified by affinity chromatography was activated about 2.5-fold in a Ca(2+)- and calmodulin-dependent fashion. G protein beta gamma-subunits, an inhibitor in the receptor-mediated inhibition of adenylate cyclase, inhibited the purified cyclase by more than 80%. The extent of beta gamma-induced inhibition was not affected by the activation with Ca2+ and calmodulin. Moreover, the prior addition of the beta gamma-subunits to the cyclase did not prevent the subsequent activation of the enzyme by Ca2+ and calmodulin. We conclude that the beta gamma-subunits inhibit adenylate cyclase activity in a calmodulin-independent mode.

Alterations in protein kinase C activity and membrane lipid metabolism in cerebral vasospasm after subarachnoid hemorrhage

Changes in protein kinase C (PKC) activity, membrane lipid metabolism, and the extent of 20-kDa myosin light chain (MLC) phosphorylation in spastic cerebral basilar arteries were examined by using the beagle "two-hemorrhage" model of subarachnoid hemorrhage. In spastic arteries at days 4 and 7, cytosolic PKC activity showed a decrease of 40-45% with no significant changes in membrane PKC activity as compared with nonspastic control arteries. Cytosolic PKC activity of the day 14 arteries returned toward the normal control level with the remission of vasospasm. Western blot analysis of the PKC isoforms revealed that the amounts of PKC alpha and PKC epsilon but not PKC zeta were decreased in spastic arteries. As compared with nonspastic arteries, spastic arteries showed higher rates of incorporation of [3H]choline into phosphatidylcholine (PC) and [14C]ethanolamine into phosphatidylethanolamine (PE), but not of [3H]myoinositol into phosphoinositides, suggesting the stimulated turn-over of PC and PE. The extent of 20-kDa MLC phosphorylation was not increased in the spastic arteries at days 4 or 7 as compared with that in the nonspastic control arteries. These results demonstrate that PKC activity and related membrane lipid metabolism are altered in spastic basilar arteries after subarachnoid hemorrhage.

Signal transduction in smooth muscle cells from human airways

The aim of this study deals with the post-receptor events involved in the response of cultured smooth muscle (SMC) from human bronchi to various agonists of the contraction. [3H]inositol phosphates (IPs) were isolated by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) was determined with the Fura-2 fluorescence technique. Following 5 sec stimulation with histamine, an elevation of several [3H]IPs, in particular [3H]1,4-IP2, [3H]1,4,5-IP3 and [3H]1,3,4,5-IP4, above the control values was observed. Following an incubation of 10 or 15 sec with histamine, the content of [3H]1,4,5-IP3 declined towards its basal value, while the amount of metabolites ([3H]4-IP, [3H]1,4-IP2, [3H]1,3,4-IP3) increased with time; [3H]1,3,4,5-IP4 varied little between 5 and 10 sec and decreased at 15 sec. SMC responded also to carbachol and to prostaglandin F2 alpha (PGF2 alpha) by an enhanced production of [3H]IPs, whereas neurokinin A (NKA) had no effect on the turnover of [3H]IPs. Histamine, carbachol and PGF2 alpha evoked a transient elevation in [Ca2+]i, followed by a sustained increase. The duration of the transient elevation appeared similar to that of the increase in [3H]1,4,5-IP3. These results suggest that the 'phospholipase C-1,4,5-IP3-Ca2+ release' signalling pathway is involved in the physiological response of human airway SMC to histamine, carbachol and PGF2 alpha.

Possible involvement of C-kinase in occurrence of chronic cerebral vasospasm after subarachnoid hemorrhage

The present study aimed to examine the turnover of phospholipids such as PI, PC and PE, the time course of PKC activity and the phosphorylation of 20 kDa MLC in the canine BA undergoing chronic VS. The phosphorylation of 20 kDa MLC was not augmented in the spastic BA. Turnover of PC and PE was detectably stimulated on day 7. The cytosolic PKC activity was down-regulated on days 4 and 7, while the membrane PKC activity remained unchanged during these periods. The present results indicate that a process which affected the membrane lipid metabolism, PKC metabolism and PKC activity occurred in spastic BA.

Increased contraction and inositol phosphate formation of tracheal smooth muscle from hyperresponsive guinea pigs

Tracheal smooth muscle from guinea pigs with documented airway hyperresponsiveness in vivo after multiple antigen challenges produced 30% to 50% greater force than tracheas from control guinea pigs, when stimulated with carbachol, histamine, or leukotriene D4. When cultured smooth muscle cells were incubated with myo[2-3H]inositol, basal uptake of [3H]inositol was similar in cells from normal and hyperresponsive guinea pigs, but when these cells were stimulated with contractile agonists, there was increased uptake of inositol in hyperresponsive cells. Analysis of inositol phosphates by column chromatography and high-performance liquid chromatography revealed the presence of inositol-1,4,5-triphosphate, inositol-1,3,4-trisphosphate, inositol-1,4-bisphosphate, and inositol-1-monophosphate. The release of inositol-1,4,5-triphosphate, inositol-1,4-biphosphate, and inositol-1-monophosphate by smooth muscle cells stimulated with carbachol, leukotriene D4, or histamine was 20% to 40% greater in cells derived from hyperresponsive animals than cells from normal animals. These data demonstrate that the increased muscle contraction of hyperresponsive guinea pig tracheas is associated with increased inositol phosphate metabolism in these cells. Delineating the mechanisms of airway smooth muscle contraction should provide new pharmacologic targets for the inhibition of bronchoconstriction in asthma.

Protein kinase C-mediated contractile response of the rat vas deferens

The role of protein kinase C (PKC) in mediating contractile responses in the rat vas deferens was studied. Phorbol-12,13-diacetate (PDA) in the presence of 20 mM K+ elicited a concentration-dependent response with an EC50 of 190 nM. The non-PKC activator 4 alpha-phorbol (2 microM) was unable to elicit contraction in 20 mM K+ buffer. Incubation of rat vas deferens with the PKC inhibitor iso-H7 (30 microM) attenuated the response to norepinephrine (NE) and neurokinin A, with maximal effects depressed to 42 and 39% of control, respectively. Responses to 60 mM K+ and 2 microM PDA (20 mM K+) was also significantly inhibited by iso-H7. In the presence of 2 microM PDA and 20 mM K+, the NE concentration-effect curve was shifted 3.6-fold to the right of the control curve in a parallel manner. 4 alpha-Phorbol (20 mM K+) at the same concentration did not produce this effect. These results suggest a significant role for PKC in the contractile response of the rat vas deferens.

Comparative effects of BRL 38227, nitrendipine and isoprenaline on carbachol- and histamine-stimulated phosphoinositide metabolism in airway smooth muscle

1. The ability of BRL 38227 and nitrendipine to affect muscarinic agonist and histamine-stimulated [3H]-inositol phosphate accumulation in slices of bovine tracheal smooth muscle has been studied and compared with the established inhibitory effects of isoprenaline on this pathway. 2. Pre-addition of BRL 38227 (5 microM), nitrendipine (1 microM) or isoprenaline (10 microM) significantly inhibited the subsequent inositol phosphate response to histamine at all concentrations studied (10- 1000 microM). BRL 38227 and nitrendipine also significantly inhibited the [3H]-inositol phosphate response to low (1 microM), but not high (100 microM) concentrations of carbachol. Isoprenaline had no effect at any concentration of carbachol studied. 3. Nitrendipine (IC50 = 95 nM) and BRL 38227 (IC50 = 322 nM) caused concentration-related inhibitions of the inositol phosphate response to histamine (100 microM). Similar maximal inhibitions were caused by each agent (55-58%). Inhibitory effect of BRL 38227 was reduced in potency (IC50 = 5.5 microM), but not magnitude, in the presence of glibenclamide (0.5 microM). 4. Time-course studies comparing the effects of BRL 38227 addition 15 min before, and 10 min after histamine challenge showed that for pre-addition a distinct (less than 2 min) lag occurred following histamine addition before the inhibitory effect of BRL 38227 was manifest. In contrast, when BRL 38227 was added 10 min after histamine, an inhibitory effect was immediately apparent. 5. Further evidence for an initial, 'protected' phase of inositol phosphate accumulation was provided by the finding that BRL 38227 pre-addition had no effect on the early (0-300 s) time-course of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate mass accumulation. 6. The inhibitory effect of BRL 38227, but not that of nitrendipine or isoprenaline, on histaminestimulated [3H]-inositol phosphate accumulation was completely prevented in the presence of an elevated extracellular K+ (65 mM) concentration. 7. The results demonstrate that membrane hyperpolarization, and/or blockade of voltage-operated Ca2"-channels can regulate agonist-stimulated phosphoinositide metabolism in airway smooth muscle. The possible contribution of this regulatory mechanism to the relaxant properties of these agents is discussed.

Mechanism of carbachol-stimulated diacylglycerol formation in rat parotid acinar cells

We studied the relationship between phosphoinositide hydrolysis, phosphatidylcholine hydrolysis, and sn-1,2-diacylglycerol (DAG) formation in response to carbachol stimulation in rat parotid acinar cells. Previously, we demonstrated that DAG formation stimulated with 1 microM carbachol was biphasic: the first peak occurred at 5 min and the second one at 20 min. It was also demonstrated that the second peak was regulated in part by a calmodulin/protein kinase C-dependent mechanism. Based on the kinetic analysis of DAG formation and [32P]phosphoinositide breakdown, the first peak of carbachol (1 microM)-stimulated DAG accumulation was found to be related to the breakdown of [32P]phosphatidylinositol 4-monophosphate ([32P]PIP) and [32P]phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate ([32P]PIP2). The second peak was found to be related to [32P]PIP2 breakdown. Carbachol stimulated the release of [3H]phosphocholine into the medium, indicating that the predominant pathway for phosphatidylcholine hydrolysis was via phospholipase C. Moreover, carbachol stimulated the release of [3H]choline metabolites in a time- and dose-dependent manner. This agonist slightly stimulated the release of [3H]ethanolamine metabolites. A calmodulin/protein kinase C-dependent mechanism was also studied and was found to be involved in carbachol-stimulated phosphatidylcholine hydrolysis; W-7, a calmodulin inhibitor and staurosporine, a protein kinase C inhibitor, inhibited the carbachol (1-microM)-induced release of [3H]choline metabolites at 20 min in a dose-dependent manner, but did not have inhibitory effects at 5 min. These results suggest that the first peak of DAG accumulation induced by carbachol is predominantly associated with the breakdown [32P]PIP and of [32P]PIP2 and that the second peak is predominantly associated with [32P]PIP2 breakdown and phosphatidylcholine hydrolysis.

Vascular protein kinase C in Wistar-Kyoto and spontaneously hypertensive rats

Phorbol esters which activate protein kinase C (PKC) produced concentration-related force development in aorta from spontaneously hypertensive rat (SHR) and Wistar-Kyoto rat (WKY); all were 2-7 x more potent in SHR. However, total PKC activity in aortas, as well as carotid, caudal and renal arteries, was not different, when SHR was compared with WKY. Binding of phorbol dibutyrate to particulate aortic PKC was similar in SHR and WKY (same apparent Kd and Bmax values), as was potency for displacement of phorbol dibutyrate by phorbol myristate acetate. Furthermore, there was no difference in potency with staurosporine, H-7, and calmidazolium in inhibiting SHR and WKY aortic PKC. These data demonstrate enhanced contractile sensitivity to PKC-activating phorbol esters in SHR aortic smooth muscle that is not related to activity, phorbol ester binding, or sensitivity to inhibitors when SHR PKC is compared with WKY PKC. Thus, signal transduction events distal to PKC activation may be responsible for enhanced vascular contractile sensitivity to phorbol esters in SHR.

Endothelin-1-induced [3H]-inositol phosphate accumulation in rat trachea

1. The effects of endothelin-1 (ET-1) and of the muscarinic cholinoceptor agonist, carbachol, on [3H]-inositol phosphate ([3H]-InsP) accumulation and smooth muscle contraction were determined in rat isolated tracheal tissue. 2. ET-1 (1 microM) and carbachol (10 microM) induced significant accumulation of [3H]-InsPs in myo-[2-3H]-inositol-loaded rat tracheal segments. Several components of the tracheal wall including the airway smooth muscle band, the cartilaginous region and the intercartilaginous region generated significant levels of [3H]-InsPs in response to ET-1 and carbachol. Following stimulation with ET-1, a greater proportion of tracheal [3H]-InsPs were generated in the intercartilaginous region (49%) than in either the airway smooth muscle band (25%) or cartilaginous region (26%). However, when the respective weights of these regions is taken into account, ET-1-induced accumulation of [3H]-InsPs was greatest in the airway smooth muscle band. The tracheal epithelium did not appear to generate [3H]-InsPs in response to ET-1 or modulate either basal or ET-1-induced accumulation of [3H]-InsPs in rat tracheal segments. 3. In the rat tracheal smooth muscle band, ET-1 caused a time- and concentration-dependent accumulation of [3H]-InsPs. Concentrations of ET-1 as low as 10 nM produced significant accumulation of [3H]-InsPs (1.23 +/- 0.10 fold increase above basal levels of 295 +/- 2 d.p.m. mg-1 wet wt., n = 3 experiments). At 10 microM, the highest concentration ?tsed, ET-1 produced similar levels of [3H]-InsP accumulation (7.03 +/- 0.55 fold above basal levels, t = 5) to that produced by a maximally effective concentration of carbachol (10 microM; 7.97 +/- 0.31 fold increase above basal levels, n = 4). ET-1-induced accumulation of [3H]-InsPs was not significantly affected by indomethacin (5 microM), nordihydroguaiaretic acid (NDGA, 10 microM), WEB 2086 (10 microM) or phosphoramidon (10 microM).4. ET-1 also produced concentration-dependent contractions of epithelium-denuded rat tracheal ring preparations. The mean concentration of ET-1 producing 50% of the maximum contractile response to carbachol (EC50) was 31 nm (95% confidence limits, 20-49 nM, n = 12). The presence of an intact tracheal epithelium, indomethacin (5 microM), WEB 2086 (10 microM) and phosphoramidon (10 microM) had no significant effect on the mean EC50 for ET-1-induced contraction (n = 5). In contrast, NDGA (10 microM) inhibited ET-1- induced contractions (4.0 fold increase in mean EC50, P < 0.001, n = 5). However, this effect of NDGA did not appear to be related to inhibition of leukotriene synthesis via lipoxygenase since the leukotriene antagonist SKF 104353 did not affect ET-1-induced contractions (n = 5) and moreover, leukotriene C4 and leukotriene D4 did not contract rat isolated tracheal smooth muscle preparations (n = 4).5. The threshold concentrations of ET-1 that produced increases in smooth muscle contraction and [3H]-InsPs accumulation were similar, although the EC50 for [3H]-InsP accumulation was 2.9 fold greater than that for smooth muscle contraction. For carbachol, the EC50 for [3H]-InsP accumulation (mean ECQO = 5.0 microM, 1.2-21 microM, n = 4) was 25 fold greater than that for smooth muscle contraction(mean EC50 = 0.20 miicroM, 0.17-0.24 microM, n = 12).6. It seems likely that ET-1 has a direct effect on InsP generation in rat tracheal smooth muscle and that this is largely responsible for the spasmogenic actions of this peptide.

Depolarization and agonist-stimulated changes in inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate and inositol 1,3,4,5-tetrakisphosphate mass accumulation in rat cerebral cortex

Muscarinic receptor stimulation or depolarization with elevated extracellular K+ induced rapid and sustained increases in mass accumulations of myo-inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate [Ins(1,4,5)P3] and myo-inositol 1,3,4,5-tetrakisphosphate [Ins(1,3,4,5)P4] in cerebral cortex slices. Synergistic but transient responses of both inositol polyphosphate second messengers were observed when slices were stimulated with carbachol under depolarizing conditions; this synergy was observed as an increase in the maximal responsiveness, with no significant change in EC50 values for carbachol. Omission of buffer Ca2+ ([Ca2+]e 10-20 microM) reduced basal Ins(1,4,5)P3 and Ins(1,3,4,5)P4 concentrations; the relative stimulatory effects of muscarinic receptor stimulation were maintained, but the effects of depolarization were markedly attenuated under these conditions. A component of the response to depolarization appeared to be indirectly mediated by the release of acetylcholine, because the K(+)-evoked increase in Ins(1,3,4,5)P4 was enhanced by the cholinesterase inhibitor physostigmine, and was partially attenuated by atropine. An additive suppression by nitrendipine suggests that entry of Ca2+ through L-type Ca2+ channels may serve to accelerate phosphorylation of Ins(1,4,5)P3 by 3-kinase. Norepinephrine did not significantly increase Ins(1,4,5)P3 or Ins(1,3,4,5)P4 accumulation; however, in the presence of depolarizing K+, norepinephrine caused a dramatic increase in Ins(1,3,4,5)P4 mass accumulation. In contrast, the excitatory amino acid quisqualate caused significant increases in the mass accumulations of both inositol polyphosphates measured, with no further increase being observed under depolarizing conditions. The results are discussed with respect to the interactive effects of agonist and depolarization stimuli on inositol polyphosphate accumulation which might more accurately reflect the conditions pertaining in vivo.

Substance P-induced diacylglycerol formation in rat parotid acinar cells

The mechanisms underlying the ability of substance P, to stimulate the sn-1,2-diacylglycerol (DAG) formation were studied using rat parotid acinar cells. During a 60 s stimulation, 1 microM substance P caused a rapid rise in DAG accumulation at 5 s, whereas a low (0.1 microM) concentration of agonist did not. During long term stimulation for 30 min, DAG accumulation induced by 1 microM substance P reached near maximal levels at 5 min and remained elevated for at least 20 min. In contrast, DAG formation induced by 0.1 microM substance P exhibited a peak at 5 min, gradually declined and returned to near basal levels at 30 min. Furthermore, DAG accumulation in response to substance P at 5 and 20 min increased in a dose-dependent manner. The breakdown of both [32P]phosphatidylinositol 4-monophosphate ([32P]PIP) and [32P]phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate ([32P]PIP2) stimulated by 1 microM substance P significantly increased from 5 to 20 min and returned to basal levels by 30 min; however, the breakdown of [32P]PIP2 was greater than that of [32P]PIP. At a low concentration of substance P, [32P]PIP2 breakdown reached maximal levels at 5 min followed by a progressive decrease and returned to basal levels at 30 min, whereas the breakdown of [32P]PIP reached maximal levels at 5 min and returned to near basal levels at 10 min. Both concentrations of substance P caused some [32P]phosphatidylinositol breakdown at 5 min. Changes in [3H]inositol trisphosphate induced by substance P were similar to those in [32P]PIP2. In addition, substance P (1 microM) did not stimulate the release of [3H]choline or [3H]ethanolamine metabolites into the medium. Substance P-induced DAG formation was not inhibited by staurosporine, a protein kinase C inhibitor. These results suggest that DAG formation caused by substance P is closely associated with the hydrolysis of phosphatidylinositides but not that of phosphatidylcholine or phosphatidylethanolamine, and is not regulated by protein kinase C-dependent mechanism(s).

12-Deoxyphorbol 13-isobutyrate contracts isolated rat thoracic arteries

The vasocontractile effect of 12-deoxyphorbol 13-isobutyrate (DPB), an activator of protein kinase C (PKC), was studied to clarify the mechanism of the vascontractile response elicited by activation of PKC. DPB induced both a sustained increase in intracellular Ca2+ levels and contraction in isolated rat thoracic artery. For a given increase in intracellular Ca2+ levels. DPB induced a greater contraction than high K+ or ionomycin. In Ca(2+)-free media, DPB induced concentration-dependent contraction with a slow rate of rise without causing detectable changes in intracellular Ca2+ levels. The DPB-induced contractions in Ca(2+)-free media were less inhibited by the inhibitors of calmodulin or myosin light chain kinase than ionomycin-induced contractions in normal media were. These results indicate that activation of PKC might increase the Ca2+ sensitivity of contractile elements due to mechanisms not associated with the Ca(2+)-calmodulin pathway.

Possible role of protein kinase C-dependent smooth muscle contraction in the pathogenesis of chronic cerebral vasospasm

In the present study, we investigate the possible role of protein kinase C (PKC)-dependent smooth muscle contraction in cerebral vasospasm following subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH), employing the beagle "two-hemorrhage" model. The occurrence of chronic vasospasm was angiographically confirmed on day 7 in the basilar artery, which was exposed via the transclival approach. The artery was superfused with aerated Krebs-Henseleit solution containing various agents, and the subsequent changes in the basilar artery diameter were recorded by successive angiography. The preexisting spasm was not ameliorated by local application of neurotransmitter antagonists (atropine, methysergide, phentolamine, and diphenhydramine), calmodulin inhibitors (R24571 and W-7), or a calcium antagonist, nicardipine. However, the application of PKC inhibitors such as H-7 and staurosporine induced significant dilation of the artery. In another experiment, an intrinsic PKC activator, 1,2-diacylglycerol (DAG), in the basilar artery, the CSF, and the cisternal clot of beagles exposed to two hemorrhages was measured on days 1, 2, 4, 7, and 14 using the DAG kinase method. On days 2, 4, and 7, the DAG content of the basilar artery showed a significant and prolonged increase (150-190% of control), whereas it was unchanged on days 1 and 14. Throughout the experimental period, there was a significant linear correlation between the DAG content and the angiographical diameter of the basilar artery. The above results indicate that SAH leads to an increase in the DAG level within the cerebral artery through an as yet unknown mechanism and that subsequent activation of the PKC-dependent contractile system participates in the occurrence of chronic vasospasm.

Temporal changes in the calcium-force relation during histamine-induced contractions of strips of the coronary artery of the pig

1. We examined temporal changes in the relationship between cytosolic calcium concentrations ([Ca2+]i) and developed tension during histamine-induced contractions of strips of the coronary artery of the pig, by making use of simultaneous measurements of fura-2 fluorescence and force. 2. The relationship between [Ca2+]i and developed tension observed with cumulative applications of extracellular Ca2+ ([Ca2+]o), ranging from 0 mM to 10 mM, during 118 mM K(+)-depolarization was similar to that observed in chemically skinned strips of the porcine coronary artery, as noted by other investigators. [Ca2+]i at 0 mM [Ca2+]o, at 50% of maximum, and at maximum tension development were 76 nM, 424 nM, and 3050 nM, respectively. 3. Cumulative applications of histamine induced dose-dependent increases in [Ca2+]i and tension and the extent of tension for a given change in [Ca2+]i increased, i.e. greater effectiveness of [Ca2+]i-tension relationship, than seen with K(+)-depolarization. 4. When histamine 10(-5) M was applied, [Ca2+]i abruptly rose and reached the first peak within several seconds. After a slight dip at 30 s, [Ca2+]i reached a second peak at 3 min, and then gradually declined. On the other hand, tension developed rapidly reached a maximum at 4 min, then gradually declined. The relation between [Ca2+]i and tension in the early, rising phase of contraction was similar to that obtained during depolarization. At the time of maximum tension development, the relation was greater than that observed during depolarization, which persisted in the phase of declining tension. 5. To examine the role of protein kinase C in the increased effectiveness of [Ca2+]i-tension relation of histamine-induced contractions, we used 1-(5-isoquinolinesulphonyl)-2-methylpiperazine (H-7), as an inhibitor. Exposure of strips to H-7, i0-' M, reduced the effectiveness of [Ca2+]i-tension relation toward the level observed during depolarization, while it had no effect on the [Ca2 ]i-tension relation in the early phase of contraction either in the presence or absence of extracellular Ca2 + 6. In intact smooth muscle of the coronary artery of the pig, the relationship between [Ca2+]i and developed tension varies during contraction. Histamine, a receptor-mediated stimulus, induced a greater tension for a given change in [Ca2+]i during the steady state of contraction than did depolarization. The greater effectiveness of contraction, particularly in the later phase, seems to be mediated by activation of an H-7-sensitive mechanisms.

Effects of age on muscarinic agonist-induced contraction and IP accumulation in airway smooth muscle

The effects of age on carbachol-stimulated force development and [3H]inositol phosphate production was studied in tracheal rings from guinea pigs aged 1 month and 25 months of age. The pD2 for the contractile response to carbachol was significantly reduced in tracheal tissues from old animals as compared to that of the young tissues (6.49 +/- 0.04, 7.09 +/- 0.04, n = 12), respectively. In contrast, inositol phosphate formation was not altered with increasing age when stimulated by carbachol or NaF, a direct activator of G proteins. Carbachol-induced inositol phosphate accumulation was inhibited by treatment with 1 micrograms/ml pertussis toxin, suggesting that IP1 accumulation is coupled to a pertussis-toxin-sensitive protein. The pD2 values for contraction (7.09 +/- 0.09, 6.49 +/- 0.04) were significantly different from the pD2 values for IP1 accumulation (4.72 +/- 0.14, 5.10 +/- 0.18) in both young and old tissues, respectively. These data suggest that IP1 accumulation is not responsible for the decreased contractile ability in tracheal smooth muscle during aging.

Phorbol 12,13-diacetate-induced contraction of the canine basilar artery: role of protein kinase C

The pharmacological and biochemical mechanisms of contractile responses to the protein kinase C (PKC) activator phorbol-12,13-diacetate (PDA) were investigated in canine basilar arteries. In the normal medium, PDA elicited a strong, dose-related, and slow-developing sustained contraction. Among the constrictors examined, including serotonin, prostaglandin F2 alpha, and endothelin, only PDA yielded contractions in a Ca2(+)-free medium. In both media, the PDA-induced contractions were virtually inhibited by either staurosporine, H-7, or quinacrine, while neither neurotransmitter blockades nor R24571 (calmidazolium) exerted significant effects. In addition, it was shown that 8-bromocyclic GMP, but not 8-bromocyclic AMP, markedly curtailed the PDA-induced contractions. Biochemical analysis, furthermore, showed that PDA induced increased phosphorylations of 27- and 96-kDa and proteins other than the myosin light chain (MLC) 20-kDa protein. Thus, the present results open up a novel mechanism of sustained cerebral artery contractions, where PKC activation rather than Ca2+/calmodulin/MLC system plays a key role that is regulated both by phospholipase A2 and by cyclic GMP.

Modulation of fluoroaluminate-induced inositol phosphate formation by increases in tissue cyclic AMP content in bovine tracheal smooth muscle

1. The effect of fluoroaluminate complexes (AlCl3 plus NaF) upon smooth muscle tone, [3H]-inositol phosphate accumulation and [3H]-cyclic AMP accumulation has been investigated in slices of bovine tracheal smooth muscle. 2. Fluoroaluminate (10 microM AlCl3 + various concentrations of NaF) elicited concentration-dependent contractions of bovine tracheal smooth muscle strips at concentrations of NaF in the range 1-10 mM. The resultant contractile response was reversed by isoprenaline (50 nM) and was preserved in calcium-free medium. 3. Fluoroaluminate stimulated [3H]-inositol phosphate formation at concentrations of NaF over 1 mM. The response to 20 mM NaF + 10 microM AlCl3 was 164 +/- 29% of the response to 1 mM histamine. Fluoroaluminate also increased the incorporation of [3H]-myo-inositol into membrane phospholipids. 4. Fluoroaluminate produced a small rise in [3H]-cyclic AMP levels (2.1 fold increase over basal with 20 mM NaF). The response to forskolin (1 microM, 8.6 fold over basal) was reduced by fluoroaluminate in a concentration-dependent manner, but still remained significantly (P less than 0.05) elevated over the response to fluoroaluminate alone. 5. The [3H]-inositol phosphate response to fluoroaluminate was inhibited by salbutamol (maximum inhibition 60%, IC50 = 0.08 microM), forskolin (1 microM, 46% inhibition) and isobutylmethylxanthine (1 mM, 73% inhibition). 6. These data suggest that inhibition of agonist-induced inositol phospholipid turnover by cyclic AMP in this tissue can occur at the post-receptor level.

[Ca2+], not diacylglycerol, is the primary regulator of sustained swine arterial smooth muscle contraction

Sustained smooth muscle contraction has been proposed to be regulated by either 1) sustained increases in intracellular Ca2+ concentration [(Ca2+]i)-dependent myosin phosphorylation or 2) diacylglycerol-dependent protein kinase C activation. We measured diacylglycerol mass with the diacylglycerol kinase assay and myoplasmic [Ca2+] with aequorin in swine carotid medial smooth muscle. Sustained and significant increases in [Ca2+], myosin light chain phosphorylation, and isometric stress were observed with histamine or endothelin stimulation. Neither stimuli, however, induced significant increases in diacylglycerol mass. Relaxation of histamine-stimulated tissues was induced by removal of histamine or removal of extracellular CaCl2 in the continued presence of histamine. The rate of decline of both [Ca2+] and force was similar in both protocols, suggesting that removal of Ca2+ (without removing the stimulus) was equivalent to removal of the stimulus. These data suggest that [Ca2+]i is the primary regulator of sustained swine arterial smooth muscle contraction, whereas diacylglycerol has, at most, only a minor role.

Mechanism of endothelin-induced contraction in guinea-pig trachea: comparison with rat aorta

1. Endothelin (1 nM-0.3 microM) produced a concentration-dependent contraction of guinea-pig epithelium-containing (intact) trachea (EC50 = 30.9 nM). Endothelin was a less potent agonist than leukotriene D4 (LTD4; EC50 = 0.77 nM), but was more potent than carbachol (EC50 = 0.15 microM) or substance P (EC50 = 1.4 microM). Endothelin was a more potent contractile agent in rat endothelium-denuded aorta (EC50 = 2.1 nM) than in guinea-pig trachea. 2. Endothelin-induced contraction in guinea-pig trachea was unaffected by mepyramine (10 microM), atropine (1 microM), SK&F 104353 (10 microM), a leukotriene receptor antagonist, or SQ 29,548 (1 microM), a thromboxane receptor antagonist. The contraction produced by 0.3 microM endothelin was potentiated by cyclo-oxygenase inhibition with 5 microM indomethacin. 3. Nicardipine (0.01 or 0.1 microM) or incubation in calcium-free medium +0.1 mM EGTA for 30 min had a relatively minor or no effect on endothelin concentration-response curves in guinea-pig intact trachea, but markedly inhibited responses produced by endothelin in endothelium-denuded aorta of the rat. Increasing the EGTA concentration in calcium-free medium to 1 mM abolished endothelin-induced contraction in guinea-pig trachea. 4. In guinea-pig trachea, ryanodine (10 microM) produced a 2.1 fold shift to the right of endothelin concentration-response curves and reduced the maximum response elicited by 0.3 microM endothelin. 5. Staurosporine (0.01 microM and 0.1 microM), a protein kinase C inhibitor, was without effect on endothelin- or carbachol-induced contraction in guinea-pig trachea, but markedly inhibited the response produced by endothelin in rat aorta. 6. Endothelin (3 nM-0.3 microM) produced a concentration-dependent stimulation of phosphatidylinositol (PI) turnover in guinea-pig intact trachea, with an EC50 value of 45.9 nM. 7. Removal of the epithlium markedly potentiated endothelin-induced contraction in guinea-pig trachea, producing a 4.7 fold leftward shift in endothelin concentration-response curves and an increase in the contractile response elicited by 0.3 microM endothelin. 8. These data indicate that endothelin is a potent agonist in guinea-pig trachea whose response is markedly enhanced by removal of the airway epithelium. Endothelin-induced contraction is not mediated to a marked extent by calcium influx via dihydropyridine-sensitive calcium channels and does not involve the release of histamine, acetylcholine, leukotrienes or thromboxane. Rather, endothelin appears to produce contraction of guinea-pig trachea via a direct action which involves stimulation of PI turnover and utilization of calcium from intracellular stores and, also, calcium influx via a pathway that is not sensitive to dihydropyridine calcium channel inhibitors. Endothelin-induced contraction of rat aorta was more sensitive to the effects of incubation in Ca2 +-free medium, nicardipine or staurosporine, suggesting that differences exist in the relative mechanisms whereby endothelin produces contraction in different tissues.

Modulation of carbachol-induced inositol phosphate formation in bovine tracheal smooth muscle by cyclic AMP phosphodiesterase inhibitors

An investigation was made of a range of agents capable of elevating tissue cyclic AMP levels, or acting as a stable analogue of cyclic AMP, upon carbachol induced inositol phosphate responses in bovine tracheal smooth muscle slices. Whereas the beta 2 adrenoceptor agonist salbutamol (1 microM) and the membrane permeable analogue of cyclic AMP, 8-bromo-cyclic AMP (1 mM) were without effect upon total [3H]inositol phosphate formation induced by carbachol, 3-iso-butyl-1-methylaxanthine (IBMX) (EC50 140 microM), the high Km, cyclic AMP selective phosphodiesterase inhibitor rolipram (EC50 41 microM) and theophylline (EC50 76 microM) all inhibited the inositol phosphate response to low (1 microM) concentrations of carbachol. IBMX (IC50 13 microM), rolipram (IC50 4.6 microM) and theophylline (IC50 180 microM) all relaxed bovine tracheal muscle strips precontracted with methacholine (1 microM). The adenylate cyclase activator forskolin (1 microM), produced a much smaller (10% inhibition) effect upon inositol phosphate formation induced by carbachol. Carbachol (1 microM-1 mM) did not inhibit forskolin induced [3H]cyclic AMP formation. An inhibitor of the cyclic GMP preferring phosphodiesterase isozyme, M&B 22948 (1-100 microM), was without effect upon either carbachol induced inositol phosphate formation or trachealis tone. It is concluded that IBMX, rolipram and theophylline inhibit carbachol stimulated inositol phosphate formation, possibly through a cyclic AMP independent mechanism.

Partial characterization of cyclic AMP-dependent protein kinases in guinea-pig lung employing the synthetic heptapeptide substrate, kemptide. In vitro sensitivity of the soluble enzyme to isoprenaline, forskolin, methacholine and leukotriene D4

This paper describes the partial characterization of soluble cyclic AMP-dependent protein kinase (A-kinase) in guinea-pig lung using Kemptide, a synthetic serine-containing heptapeptide, and examines the sensitivity of this enzyme to drugs which are reported to increase and to decrease the intracellular concentration of cyclic AMP. Differential centrifugation of lung homogenates revealed that 78% of A-kinase was present in the 31,000 gmax x 15 min supernatant fraction. Both basal and cyclic AMP-stimulated phosphotransferase activity of this 'soluble' enzyme were abolished by the heat-stable inhibitor of A-kinase. Soluble A-kinase was Mg2(+)-dependent (apparent Km and and Kact 8.6 and 2.6 mM, respectively) and was stimulated nine-fold by saturating concentrations of both cyclic AMP (Kact: 131 nM) and cyclic GMP (Kact: 28.7 microM) at a protein (enzyme) concentration of 1.3 micrograms. Kinetic analysis of the effect of Kemptide and ATP revealed linear, Hanes plots with Michealis constants of ca. 12 and 13 microM, respectively. Chromatography of the soluble enzyme over DEAE-cellulose resolved three peaks of catalytic activity when fractions were assayed in the presence of cyclic AMP (10 microM): (i) free catalytic subunits (5%), (ii) Type I isoenzyme (5%) and (iii) Type II isoenzyme (90%). The A-kinase activity ratio was markedly increased in lung pre-treated with the smooth muscle relaxants isoprenaline and forskolin. This biochemical effect was both time- and concentration-dependent and was temporally associated with the ability of these drugs to reduce lung parenchymal tone. In contrast, the contractile agonists, methacholine (Mch) and leukotriene (LT) D4 exerted opposite effects on A-kinase activity. Thus, Mch significantly reduced cyclic AMP levels and lowered basal A-kinase activity whilst the converse was true for LTD4. For both drugs this biochemical effect accompanied contraction of the lung. Pre-treatment of lung tissue with flurbiprofen, an irreversible inhibitor of cyclo-oxygenase in vitro, abolished the ability of LTD4 to increase the A-kinase activity ratio suggesting that this biochemical response was mediated indirectly through the stimulated biosynthesis and release of a prostanoid(s) able to activate adenylyl cyclase; the increase in tension induced by LTD4, however, was not significantly affected by flurbiprofen pre-treatment. Collectively, these data support the concept that soluble A-kinase activity in guinea-pig lung can be regulated by changes in intracellular cyclic AMP and that activation and/or inhibition of this biochemical cascade may influence alterations in lung contractility.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)

Alteration in 1,2-diacylglycerol level and its fatty acid composition in hearts during the growth of hamsters

We measured the amount of 1,2-diacylglycerol (DAG) and its fatty acid composition in hamster hearts of various ages because 1,2-DAG has been recognized to be one of the intracellular second messengers. The highest level in 1,2-DAG was detected in 30-day-old hamster hearts. The heart weight increased about 2.5 times between 30 and 90 days of age. Hamster hearts at 90 days of age had 72% of the 1,2-DAG content at 30 days of age. The amount of 1,2-DAG at 240 days of age was a little lower than that in 90-day-old and 160-day-old hamsters, whereas there was no significant increase in heart weight and only a little gain in body weight between 90 and 240 days of age. The analysis of the fatty acid composition of 1,2-DAG showed an increase in the percentage of 18:0 accompanied by a change in the percentages of other fatty acids with the growth of hamsters. The largest amount of arachidonic acid expressed as 20:4 (n-6) was found at 30 days of age. On the other hand, triglyceride, cholesterol, and major phospholipid components of hamster hearts increased in accordance with growth. In particular, the increase in triglyceride content was remarkable, indicating that myocardial lipidosis may be induced by aging. These results demonstrate that 1,2-DAG may be involved in the synthesis of protein during heart growth and that the alteration of its fatty acid composition is related to the growth of hamsters.

Effects of H-7 (protein kinase inhibitor) and phorbol ester on aortic strips from spontaneously hypertensive rats

We investigated the vascular responsiveness to vasoactive agents and the inhibition by H-7 (1-(5-isoquinoline-sulfonyl)-2-methylpiperazine), which inhibits cyclic nucleotide-dependent protein kinases and protein kinase C(PKC) equally potently in helically cut strips of thoracic aortas from spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) and normotensive Wistar-Kyoto rats (WKY). The susceptibility of norepinephrine (NE)- and angiotensin II (Ang II)-induced contractions to H-7 was significantly higher in the aortas from SHR than in those from WKY. H-7 decreased the contractile responses to KCl to a similar extent in both strains without affecting the high K(+)-stimulated Ca2+ influx. H-7 produced a shift to the right of the dose-response curve for the PKC activator, 12-o-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA) in the case of SHR aortas, while no such shift was noted in tissues from WKY. Functional alterations in the PKC branch of the Ca2+ messenger system in vascular smooth muscle may play an important role in SHR during the sustained contraction.