Characterization of subtype-specific antibodies to the human D5 dopamine receptor: studies in primate brain and transfected mammalian cells

Dopamine tunes prefrontal outputs to orchestrate aversive processing

Decades of research suggest that the mesocortical dopamine system exerts powerful control over mPFC physiology and function. Indeed, dopamine signaling in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) is implicated in a vast array of processes, including working memory, stimulus discrimination, stress responses, and emotional and behavioral control. Consequently, even slight perturbations within this delicate system result in profound disruptions of mPFC-mediated processes. Many neuropsychiatric disorders are associated with dysregulation of mesocortical dopamine, including schizophrenia, depression, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, among others. Here, we review the anatomy and functions of the mesocortical dopamine system. In contrast to the canonical role of striatal dopamine in reward-related functions, recent work has revealed that mesocortical dopamine fine-tunes distinct efferent projection populations in a manner that biases subsequent behavior towards responding to stimuli associated with potentially aversive outcomes. We propose a framework wherein dopamine can serve as a signal for switching mPFC states by orchestrating how information is routed to the rest of the brain.

Differential Expression of Dopamine D5 Receptors across Neuronal Subtypes in Macaque Frontal Eye Field

Dopamine signaling in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) is important for cognitive functions, yet very little is known about the expression of the D5 class of dopamine receptors (D5Rs) in this region. To address this, we co-stained for D5Rs, pyramidal neurons (neurogranin+), putative long-range projection pyramidal neurons (SMI-32+), and several classes of inhibitory interneuron (parvalbumin+, calbindin+, calretinin+, somatostatin+) within the frontal eye field (FEF): an area within the PFC involved in the control of visual spatial attention. We then quantified the co-expression of D5Rs with markers of different cell types across different layers of the FEF. We show that: (1) D5Rs are more prevalent on pyramidal neurons than on inhibitory interneurons. (2) D5Rs are disproportionately expressed on putative long-range projecting pyramidal neurons. The disproportionately high expression of D5Rs on long-range projecting pyramidals, compared to interneurons, was particularly pronounced in layers II-III. Together these results indicate that the engagement of D5R-dependent mechanisms in the FEF varies depending on cell type and cortical layer, and suggests that non-locally projecting neurons contribute disproportionately to functions involving the D5R subtype.

Functional importance of two conserved residues in intracellular loop 1 and transmembrane region 2 of Family A GPCRs: insights from ligand binding and signal transduction responses of D1 and D5 dopaminergic receptor mutants

For many G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), the role of the first intracellular loop (IL1) and its connections with adjacent transmembrane (TM) regions have not been investigated. Notably, these regions harbor several polar residues such as Ser and Thr. To begin uncovering how these polar residues may contribute to the structural basis for GPCR functionality, we have designed human D1-class receptor mutants (hD1-ST1 and hD5-ST1) whereby all Ser and Thr of IL1 and IL1/TM2 juncture have been replaced by Ala and Val, respectively. Both ST1 mutants exhibited a loss of dopamine affinity but similar binding properties for inverse agonists compared to their parent receptors. As well, these mutations diminished receptor activation for both subtypes, as indicated by an ablated constitutive activity and a pronounced decrease in dopamine potency. Interestingly, both mutants exhibited enhanced dopamine-mediated maximal stimulation (Emax) of adenylyl cyclase that was at least two-fold higher than wild-type. Point mutations for hD1R revealed that the loss in dopamine affinity and potency was attributed to Thr59, while the enhanced Emax of adenylyl cyclase was directly influenced by Ser65. These two residues are conserved among many Family A GPCRs and have recurring molecular interactions among crystallized structures. As such, their functional roles for IL1 and its transition into TM2 reported herein may also be applicable to other GPCRs. Our work thus potentially highlights a structural role of Thr59 and Ser65 in the formation of critical intramolecular interactions for ligand binding and signal transduction of D1-class dopaminergic receptors.

Dopamine D₁-like receptors regulate the α₁A-adrenergic receptor in human renal proximal tubule cells and D₁-like dopamine receptor knockout mice

The homeostatic control of blood pressure hinges upon the delicate balance between prohypertensinogenic and antihypertensinogenic systems. D₁-like dopamine receptors [dopamine D₁ and D₅ receptors (D₁Rs and D₅Rs, respectively)] and the α₁A-adrenergic receptor (α₁A-AR) are expressed in the renal proximal tubule and engender opposing effects on Na(+) transport, i.e., natriuresis (via D₁Rs and D5Rs) or antinatriuresis (via α₁A-ARs). We tested the hypothesis that the D₁R/D₅R regulates the α₁A-AR. D₁-like dopamine receptors coimmunoprecipitated, colocalized, and cofractionated with α₁A-ARs in lipid rafts in immortalized human renal proximal tubule cells. Long-term treatment with the D₁R/D₅R agonist fenoldopam resulted in decreased D₁R and D₅R expression but increased α₁A-AR abundance in the plasma membrane. Short-term fenoldopam treatment stimulated the translocation of Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase from the plasma membrane to the cytosol that was partially reversed by an α₁A-AR agonist, which by itself induced Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase translocation from the cytosol to the plasma membrane. The α₁A-AR-specific agonist A610603 also minimized the ability of fenoldopam to inhibit Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase activity. To determine the interaction among D₁Rs, D₅Rs, and α₁A-ARs in vivo, we used phenylephrine and A610603 to decrease Na(+) excretion in several D1-like dopamine receptor knockout mouse strains. Phenylephrine and A61603 treatment resulted in a partial reduction of urinary Na(+) excretion in wild-type mice and its abolition in D1R knockout, D₅R knockout, and D₁R-D₅R double-knockout mice. Our results demonstrate the ability of the D₁-like dopamine receptors to regulate the expression and activity of α₁A-AR. Elucidating the intricacies of the interaction among these receptors is crucial for a better understanding of the crosstalk between anti- and pro-hypertensive systems.

D1-dopamine and α1-adrenergic receptors co-localize in dendrites of the rat prefrontal cortex

Functional interactions between dopaminergic and noradrenergic systems occur in many brain areas, including the prefrontal cortex (PFC). Biochemical, electrophysiological and behavioral data indicate crosstalk between D1 dopamine receptor (D1R) and α1-adrenergic receptor (α1AR) signaling in the PFC. However, it is unknown whether these interactions occur within the same neurons, or between neurons expressing either receptor. In this study, we used electron microscopy immunocytochemistry to demonstrate that D1Rs and α1ARs co-localize in rat PFC neuronal elements, most prominently in dendrites (60-70%), but also significantly in axon terminals, unmyelinated axons and spines (∼20-30%). Our data also showed that the ratio of plasma membrane-bound to intracellular α1ARs is significantly reduced in D1R-expressing dendrites. Similar results were obtained using either a pan-α1AR or a selective α1bAR antibody to label noradrenergic receptors. Thus, these results demonstrate that D1Rs and α1ARs co-localize in PFC dendrites, thereby suggesting that the catecholaminergic effects on PFC function may be driven, at least in part, by cell-autonomous D1R-α1AR interactions.

Age-dependent actions of dopamine on inhibitory synaptic transmission in superficial layers of mouse prefrontal cortex

Numerous developmental changes in the nervous system occur during the first several weeks of the rodent lifespan. Therefore, many characteristics of neuronal function described at the cellular level from in vitro slice experiments conducted during this early time period may not generalize to adult ages. We investigated the effect of dopamine (DA) on inhibitory synaptic transmission in superficial layers of the medial prefrontal cortex (PFC) in prepubertal [postnatal age (P; days) 12-20], periadolescent (P30-48), and adult (P70-100) mice. The PFC is associated with higher-level cognitive functions, such as working memory, and is associated with initiation, planning, and execution of actions, as well as motivation and cognition. It is innervated by DA-releasing fibers that arise from the ventral tegmental area. In slices from prepubertal mice, DA produced a biphasic modulation of inhibitory postsynaptic currents (IPSCs) recorded in layer II/III pyramidal neurons. Activation of D2-like receptors leads to an early suppression of the evoked IPSC, which was followed by a longer-lasting facilitation of the IPSC mediated by D1-like DA receptors. In periadolescent mice, the D2 receptor-mediated early suppression was significantly smaller compared with the prepubertal animals and absent in adult animals. Furthermore, we found significant differences in the DA-mediated lasting enhancement of the inhibitory response among the developmental groups. Our findings suggest that behavioral paradigms that elicit dopaminergic release in the PFC differentially modulate inhibition of excitatory pyramidal neuron output in prepuberty compared with periadolescence and adulthood in the superficial layers (II/III) of the cortex.

Pharmacology of signaling induced by dopamine D(1)-like receptor activation

Dopamine D(1)-like receptors consisting of D(1) and D(5) subtypes are intimately implicated in dopaminergic regulation of fundamental neurophysiologic processes such as mood, motivation, cognitive function, and motor activity. Upon stimulation, D(1)-like receptors initiate signal transduction cascades that are mediated through adenylyl cyclase or phosphoinositide metabolism, with subsequent enhancement of multiple downstream kinase cascades. The latter actions propagate and further amplify the receptor signals, thus predisposing D(1)-like receptors to multifaceted interactions with various other mediators and receptor systems. The adenylyl cyclase response to dopamine or selective D(1)-like receptor agonists is reliably associated with the D(1) subtype, while emerging evidence indicates that the phosphoinositide responses in native brain tissues may be preferentially mediated through stimulation of the D(5) receptor. Besides classic coupling of each receptor subtype to specific G proteins, additional biophysical models are advanced in attempts to account for differential subcellular distribution, heteromolecular oligomerization, and activity-dependent selectivity of the receptors. It is expected that significant advances in understanding of dopamine neurobiology will emerge from current and anticipated studies directed at uncovering the molecular mechanisms of D(5) coupling to phosphoinositide signaling, the structural features that might enhance pharmacological selectivity for D(5) versus D(1) subtypes, the mechanism by which dopamine may modulate phosphoinositide synthesis, the contributions of the various responsive signal mediators to D(1) or D(5) interactions with D(2)-like receptors, and the spectrum of dopaminergic functions that may be attributed to each receptor subtype and signaling pathway.

Quantification of D1 and D5 dopamine receptor localization in layers I, III, and V of Macaca mulatta prefrontal cortical area 9: coexpression in dendritic spines and axon terminals

D1 family receptors (D1R) in prefrontal cortex (PFC) are critical for normal cognition and are implicated in pathological states such as schizophrenia. The two D1R subtypes, D1 and D5, cannot be pharmacologically distinguished but have important functional differences. To understand their contributions to cortical function, we quantified their localization in the neuropil of primate PFC. We identified different patterns of distribution for the two receptors that showed variation across cortical laminae. Although D1 was enriched in spines and D5 in dendrites, there was considerable overlap in their distribution within neuronal compartments. To determine whether the D1 and D5 receptors are localized to separate populations of synapses, we employed double-labeling methods. We found the two receptors colocalized and quantified the overlap of their distribution in spines and axon terminals of prefrontal cortical area 9 in the Macaca mulatta monkey. The two receptors are found in partially overlapping populations, such that the D5 receptor is found in a subpopulation of those spines and terminals that contain D1. These results indicate that dopamine activation of the two D1R subtypes does not modulate disparate populations of synapses onto dendritic spines in prefrontal cortical area 9; rather, dopamine can activate D1 and D5 receptors on the same spines, plus an additional group of spines that contains only D1. The implications of these results for the dose-dependent relationship between D1R activation and PFC function are discussed.

Presence of D1- and D2-like dopamine receptors in the rat, mouse and bovine multiciliated ependyma

The multiciliated ependyma forms an epithelial-like layer that could act as a selective barrier between the brain parenchyma and cerebrospinal fluid. In the present study, tyrosine hydroxylase-containing fibres have been detected in the basal pole of the ependymal cells of the lateral ventricles of rat, mouse and calf. The use of antibodies against at least two different peptide sequences of each D(2), D(3), D(4) and D(5) dopamine receptor subtype has allowed their detection in: (i) sections of mouse, rat and bovine lateral ventricles, by means of immunocytochemistry; and (ii) membrane protein extracts obtained from the ependymal layer of the bovine lateral ventricles, using immunoblotting. The immunocytochemical study has shown the presence of all these subtypes of dopamine receptors in the ependymal cells. Immunoblotting demonstrated similar immunoreactive bands for all receptor subtypes in both ependymal and corpus striatum membrane extracts.

[Central dopamine receptors: general considerations (Part 1)]

Specific protein G-coupled receptors mediate the effects of dopamine in its projection areas. Five dopaminergic receptors have been cloned, characterized and classified in two families, the D1-like family (D1- and D5-receptor subtypes) and the D2-like family (D2-, D3- and D4-receptor subtypes). These five dopamine receptor subtypes are characterized by their diversity in terms of transduction, distribution, pharmacology, functions, and regulation, leading to pleiotropic pathophysiological and pharmacological involvements in neuropsychiatric disorders underlain by a deregulation of the dopaminergic system.

Phenotypic analysis of dopamine receptor knockout mice; recent insights into the functional specificity of dopamine receptor subtypes

The functional specificity of dopamine receptor subtypes remains incompletely understood, in part due to the absence of highly selective agonists and antagonists. Phenotypic analysis of dopamine receptor knockout mice has been instrumental in identifying the role of dopamine receptor subtypes in mediating dopamine's effects on motor function, cognition, reward, and emotional behaviors. In this article, we provide an update of recent studies in dopamine receptor knockout mice and discuss the limitations and future promise of this approach.

The principal features and mechanisms of dopamine modulation in the prefrontal cortex

Mesocortical [corrected] dopamine (DA) inputs to the prefrontal cortex (PFC) play a critical role in normal cognitive process and neuropsychiatic pathologies. This DA input regulates aspects of working memory function, planning and attention, and its dysfunctions may underlie positive and negative symptoms and cognitive deficits associated with schizophrenia. Despite intense research, there is still a lack of clear understanding of the basic principles of actions of DA in the PFC. In recent years, there has been considerable efforts by many groups to understand the cellular mechanisms of DA modulation of PFC neurons. However, the results of these efforts often lead to contradictions and controversies. One principal feature of DA that is agreed by most researchers is that DA is a neuromodulator and is clearly not an excitatory or inhibitory neurotransmitter. The present article aims to identify certain principles of DA mechanisms by drawing on published, as well as unpublished data from PFC and other CNS sites to shed light on aspects of DA neuromodulation and address some of the existing controversies. Eighteen key features about DA modulation have been identified. These points directly impact on the end result of DA neuromodulation, and in some cases explain why DA does not yield identical effects under all experimental conditions. It will become apparent that DA's actions in PFC are subtle and depend on a variety of factors that can no longer be ignored. Some of these key factors include distinct bell-shaped dose-response profiles of postsynaptic DA effects, different postsynaptic responses that are contingent on the duration of DA receptor stimulation, prolonged duration effects, bidirectional effects following activation of D1 and D2 classes of receptors and membrane potential state and history dependence of subsequent DA actions. It is hoped that these factors will be borne in mind in future research and as a result a more consistent picture of DA neuromodulation in the PFC will emerge. Based on these factors, a theory is proposed for DA's action in PFC. This theory suggests that DA acts to expand or contract the breadth of information held in working memory buffers in PFC networks.

Microdomains for dopamine volume neurotransmission in primate prefrontal cortex

The explicit yet enigmatic involvement of dopamine in cortical physiology is in part volumetric (beyond the synapse), as is apparently the action of neuroleptics targeting dopamine receptors. The notion that nonsynaptic neuronal membranes would translate extracellular dopamine into receptor-specific spatiotemporal downstream signaling, similar to the chemical synapse, is intriguing. Here, we report that dopamine D5 (but not D1 or D2) receptors in the perisomatic plasma membrane of prefrontal cortical neurons form discrete and exclusively extrasynaptic microdomains with inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate-gated calcium stores of subsurface cisterns and mitochondria. These findings introduce a novel dopaminoceptive substratum in the brain and a unique D5 receptor-specific signaling paradigm.

Receptor subtypes involved in the presynaptic and postsynaptic actions of dopamine on striatal interneurons

By stimulating distinct receptor subtypes, dopamine (DA) exerts presynaptic and postsynaptic actions on both large aspiny (LA) cholinergic and fast-spiking (FS) parvalbumin-positive interneurons of the striatum. Lack of receptor- and isoform-specific pharmacological agents, however, has hampered the progress toward a detailed identification of the specific DA receptors involved in these actions. To overcome this issue, in the present study we used four different mutant mice in which the expression of specific DA receptors was ablated. In D1 receptor null mice, D1R-/-, DA dose-dependently depolarized both LA and FS interneurons. Interestingly, SCH 233390 (10 microm), a D1-like (D1 and D5) receptor antagonist, but not l-sulpiride (3-10 microm), a D2-like (D2, D3, D4) receptor blocker, prevented this effect, implying D5 receptors in this action. Accordingly, immunohistochemical analyses in both wild-type and D1R-/- mice confirmed the expression of D5 receptors in both cholinergic and parvalbumin-positive interneurons of the striatum. In mice lacking D2 receptors, D2R-/-, the DA-dependent inhibition of GABA transmission was lost in both interneuron populations. Both isoforms of D2 receptor, D2L and D2S, were very likely involved in this inhibitory action, as revealed by the electrophysiological analysis of the effect of the DA D2-like receptor agonist quinpirole in two distinct mutants lacking D2L receptors and expressing variable contents of D2S receptors. The identification of the receptor subtypes involved in the actions of DA on different populations of striatal cells is essential to understand the circuitry of the basal ganglia and to develop pharmacological strategies able to interfere selectively with specific neuronal functions.

Receptor subtypes involved in the presynaptic and postsynaptic actions of dopamine on striatal interneurons

By stimulating distinct receptor subtypes, dopamine (DA) exerts presynaptic and postsynaptic actions on both large aspiny (LA) cholinergic and fast-spiking (FS) parvalbumin-positive interneurons of the striatum. Lack of receptor- and isoform-specific pharmacological agents, however, has hampered the progress toward a detailed identification of the specific DA receptors involved in these actions. To overcome this issue, in the present study we used four different mutant mice in which the expression of specific DA receptors was ablated. In D1 receptor null mice, D1R-/-, DA dose-dependently depolarized both LA and FS interneurons. Interestingly, SCH 233390 (10 microm), a D1-like (D1 and D5) receptor antagonist, but not l-sulpiride (3-10 microm), a D2-like (D2, D3, D4) receptor blocker, prevented this effect, implying D5 receptors in this action. Accordingly, immunohistochemical analyses in both wild-type and D1R-/- mice confirmed the expression of D5 receptors in both cholinergic and parvalbumin-positive interneurons of the striatum. In mice lacking D2 receptors, D2R-/-, the DA-dependent inhibition of GABA transmission was lost in both interneuron populations. Both isoforms of D2 receptor, D2L and D2S, were very likely involved in this inhibitory action, as revealed by the electrophysiological analysis of the effect of the DA D2-like receptor agonist quinpirole in two distinct mutants lacking D2L receptors and expressing variable contents of D2S receptors. The identification of the receptor subtypes involved in the actions of DA on different populations of striatal cells is essential to understand the circuitry of the basal ganglia and to develop pharmacological strategies able to interfere selectively with specific neuronal functions.

Local application of dopamine inhibits pyramidal tract neuron activity in the rodent motor cortex

Cortical neurons respond in a variety of ways to locally applied dopamine, perhaps because of the activation of different receptors within or among subpopulations of cells. This study was conducted to assess the effects of dopamine and the receptor subtypes that mediate the responses of a specific population of neurons, the pyramidal tract neurons (PTNs) in the rodent motor cortex. The specific subfamilies of dopamine receptors expressed by PTNs also were determined. PTNs were identified by antidromic stimulation in intact animals. Extracellular recordings of their spontaneous activity and glutamate-induced excitation were performed with multi-barrel pipettes to allow simultaneous recording and iontophoresis of several drugs. Prolonged (30 s) application of dopamine caused a progressive, nonlinear decrease in spontaneous firing rates for nearly all PTNs, with significant reductions from baseline spontaneous activity (71% of baseline levels) occurring between 20 and 30 s of iontophoresis. The D1 selective (SCH23390) and the D2 selective (eticlopride) antagonists were both effective in blocking dopamine-induced inhibition in nearly all PTNs. Mean firing levels were maintained within 3% of baseline levels during co-application of the D1 antagonist with dopamine and within 11% of baseline levels during co-application of the D2 antagonist and dopamine. SCH23390 was ineffective however, in 2 of 16 PTNs, and eticlopride was ineffective in 3 PTNs. The dopamine blockade by both antagonists in most neurons, along with the selective blockade by one, but not the other antagonist in a few neurons indicate that the overall population of PTNs exhibits a heterogeneous expression of dopamine receptors. The firing rate of PTNs was significantly enhanced by iontophoresis of glutamate (mean = 141% of baseline levels). These increases were attenuated significantly (mean= 98% of baseline) by co-application with dopamine in all PTNs, indicating dopaminergic interactions with glutamate transmission. The expression of dopamine receptors was studied with dual-labeling techniques. PTNs were identified by retrograde labeling with fast blue and the D1a, D2, or D5 receptor proteins were stained immunohistochemically. Some, but not all PTNs, showed labeling for D1a, D2, or D5 receptors. The D1a and D2 receptor immunoreactivity was observed primarily in the somata of PTNs, whereas D5 immunoreactivity extended well into the apical dendrites of PTNs. In accordance with findings of D1 and D2 receptor antagonism of dopamine's actions, the identification of three DA receptor subtypes on PTNs suggests that dopamine can directly modulate PTN activity through one or more receptor subtypes.

Molecular phenotype of rat striatal neurons expressing the dopamine D5 receptor subtype

Dopamine is one of the principal neurotransmitters in the basal ganglia, where it plays a critical role in motor control and cognitive function through its interactions with the specific dopamine receptors D1 to D5. Although the activities mediated by most dopamine receptor subtypes have already been determined, the role of the D5 receptor subtype in the basal ganglia has still not been established. Furthermore, it is often difficult to distinguish between dopamine D5 and D1 receptors as they are stimulated by the same ligands, and they have a similar molecular structure and pharmacology. In an effort to understand the differences between these two receptor subtypes, we have studied the distribution of neurons containing D5 receptors in the striatum, and their molecular phenotype. As a result, we show that the D5 receptor subtype is present in two different populations of striatal neurons, projection neurons and interneurons. Overall, the abundance of this receptor subtype in the striatum is low, particularly in striatal projection neurons of both the direct and indirect projection pathways. In contrast, the expression of D5 receptors in striatal interneurons (cholinergic, somatostatin- or parvalbumin-positive neurons) is high, while low to moderate expression was observed in calretinin-positive neurons. Our results demonstrate the presence of D5 receptors in all the striatal cell populations so far described, although at different intensities in each. The fact that a large number of striatal neurons express the D5 receptor subtype suggests that this receptor fulfils an important function in the process of integrating information in the striatum.

Dopamine D(5) receptor immunolocalization in rat and monkey brain

Dopamine D(5) receptor localization has been difficult because even the most specific ligands cannot distinguish between molecular subtypes of the D(1)-like receptor subfamily. Antifusion protein rabbit polyclonal antibodies directed against the C-terminus of human D(5) receptor were therefore developed for immunolocalization of the D(5) receptor protein in brain. The antibodies were characterized by immunoblot analysis and immunoprecipitation and used for light microscopic immunocytochemistry in rat and monkey brain. Affinity purified D(5) antibodies were specific for D(5) fusion protein as well as cloned and native D(5) receptor on Western blots, and D(5) antisera specifically immunoprecipitated solubilized, cloned D(5) receptor. Regional distribution of D(5) receptor immunoreactivity was consistent across species and correlated well with D(5) mRNA distribution previously reported in monkey brain. Immunoreactivity was widespread and tended to label perikarya and proximal dendrites of neurons in cerebral cortex, basal ganglia, basal forebrain, hippocampus, diencephalon, brainstem, and cerebellum. Neuropil was immunoreactive in olfactory bulb, islands of Calleja, cerebral cortex, superior colliculus, and molecular layer of cerebellum. The distribution of D(5) in brain was clearly different from that of other dopamine receptor subtypes, including D(1), the other member of the D(1)-like receptor subfamily. This unique distribution corroborates the idea that the D(5) receptor subtype has a distinct role in dopamine neurotransmission.

Microanatomical localization of dopamine receptor protein immunoreactivity in the rat cerebellar cortex

Dopamine (DA) receptor subtype localization was investigated in rat cerebellar cortex using immunohistochemical techniques with antibodies raised against D1-D5 receptor protein. A faint D1 receptor protein immunoreactivity was developed in molecular and Purkinje neurons layers. D2 receptor protein immunoreactivity was found primarily in cerebellar white matter followed by molecular and granular layers and Purkinje neurons. Antibodies against D2S receptor protein were localized in molecular layer and to a lesser extent, in granular layer. A few Purkinje neurons displayed a faint D2S receptor protein immunoreactivity. D3 receptor protein immunoreactivity was observed primarily in molecular and in Purkinje neurons layers of lobules 9 and 10. A faint D3 receptor protein immunoreactivity was also localized in Purkinje neurons and to a lesser extent, in molecular and granular layers of cerebellar lobules 1-8. D4 receptor protein immunoreactivity was found in cerebellar white matter. A pale immunostaining was also visualized in molecular layer. D5 receptor protein immunoreactivity was localized primarily in molecular and Purkinje neurons layers and to a lesser extent, in granular layer and in white matter. The above results indicate that rat cerebellar cortex expresses the DA receptor subtypes so far identified. Purkinje neurons, which are the only efferent neurons of cerebellum, are richest in DA receptor protein immunoreactivity. This suggests that dopaminergic neurotransmission may modulate efferent inputs from cerebellum. The localization of the majority of D2 and D4 and of a faint D5 protein receptor immunoreactivity in cerebellar white matter suggests that these receptors may be presynaptic and transported axonally.

Immunoblot and immunohistochemical comparison of murine monoclonal antibodies specific for the rat D1a and D1b dopamine receptor subtypes

The two D1-like dopamine receptor subtypes, D1a and D1b, are structurally similar and pharmacologically indistinguishable using currently available ligands. To differentiate between the D1-like dopamine receptor subtypes, murine monoclonal antibodies to the rat Dla and the rat D1b dopamine receptor have been prepared. Rat D1-like and D2-like dopamine receptors expressed in Sf9 cells were used to verify the immunospecificity of the monoclonal anti-(D1a dopamine receptor) and anti-(D1b dopamine receptor) antibodies using immunoblot and immunohistochemical techniques. These two antibodies were used to compare the temporal dynamics of D1-like dopamine receptors expressed in Sf9 cells following infection with recombinant baculovirus and to monitor the partial purification of detergent solubilized receptors following ion exchange chromatography. Immunoreactivity of the anti-(D1a receptor) antibody was observed in the striatum and cortical regions of the rat brain using immunoblot techniques. No reactivity on immunoblots was observed for the anti-(D1b receptor) antibody using rat brain tissue, probably due to the low levels of receptor expression. For immunohistochemical studies using rat brain slices, the anti-(D1a receptor) antibody heterogeneously labeled cells and punctate processes within the striatal neuropil while labeling in the adjacent cerebral cortex was weak. Anti-(D1b receptor) antibody immunoreactivity was weak in the .striatum and generally limited to sparse perikarya in the dorsal region. However, immunoreactivity was observed in numerous cells within the vertical and horizontal limbs of the diagonal band and in the ventral pallidum. Immunoreactivity of the anti-(D1b receptor) antibody was also observed in layer V pyramidal neurons of the frontal sensorimotor cortex.

N-linked glycosylation is required for plasma membrane localization of D5, but not D1, dopamine receptors in transfected mammalian cells

We have analyzed the role of N-linked glycosylation in functional cell surface expression of the D1 and D5 dopamine receptor subtypes. Treatment of transfected HEK 293 cells with tunicamycin, an inhibitor of N-linked oligosaccharide addition, was found to prevent localization of D5 receptors in the plasma membrane. In contrast, tunicamycin treatment had no effect on the plasma membrane localization of the D1 receptor. Polymerase chain reaction mutagenesis was used to generate a panel of D5 receptors containing mutations in the three predicted sites of N-linked glycosylation. Expression of mutant receptors indicated that glycosylation of residue N7 was the major determinant of D5 receptor plasma membrane localization. Mutation of a comparable site in the D1 receptor at position N5 had no effect on the delivery of the D1 receptor to the cell surface. Tunicamycin treatment during receptor biosynthesis, but not N-glycosidase F digestion of mature receptors, abrogated binding of the D5 receptor antagonist [(3)H]SCH23390, suggesting that while oligosaccharide moieties play a key role in the cell surface expression of D5 receptors, they do not appear to contribute to the receptor's ligand binding properties. Together, our data indicate a differential requirement for N-linked glycosylation in functional cell surface expression of D1 and D5 dopamine receptors.

The physiological approach: functional architecture of working memory and disordered cognition in schizophrenia

The method of single-cell recording in awake behaving monkeys as they perform behavioral tasks is perhaps the most powerful approach to understanding the neural basis of behavior. In contrast to cellular analyses in vitro, e.g., in slice preparations, the in vivo approach allows direct correlation of cellular activity and specific processes as they are isolated by behavioral paradigms. As brain mechanisms are studied under natural conditions, inferences about the dynamic basis of information processing are direct. Limitations of this approach include the inability to unequivocally identify the cell under investigation, though location by cytoarchitectonic area and cortical depth is possible. Neurophysiological studies have not only given a dynamic view of neural processing "on line" but have allowed investigators to examine fundamental issues about normal brain function and dementia. Here I illustrate some of these issues and the power of single cell physiology to address them. Before doing so, it should be patently obvious that recording one cell at a time is a technical necessity and in no way should be taken to imply that any behavior is dependent on a single cell. Rather the neuron investigated is a representative of a cohort of cells acting in aggregate.

Coupling of D1 and D5 dopamine receptors to multiple G proteins: Implications for understanding the diversity in receptor-G protein coupling

Dopamine receptors are a subclass of the super family of G protein-coupled receptors, that transduce their effects by coupling to specific G proteins. Within the dopamine receptor family, the adenylyl cyclase stimulatory receptors include the D1 and D5 subtypes. The D1 and D5 dopamine receptors are genetically distinct, sharing >80% sequence homology within the highly conserved seven transmembrane spanning domains, but displaying only 50% overall homology at the amino acid level. When expressed in transfected GH4C1 rat pituitary cells, both D1 and D5 receptors stimulate adenylyl cyclase and have identical affinities toward dopaminergic agonists and antagonists. In order to analyze specific signaling pathways mediated by activation of either D1 or D5 receptors, we have identified the G proteins that are coupled to these receptors. Through functional analyses and competition binding studies, and from immunoprecipitation techniques, using antisera against the various alpha subunits of G proteins, we have established that both D1 and D5 receptors couple to G(s)alpha. In addition, D1 receptors are also coupled to G(o)alpha. Since G(o)alpha has been implicated in the regulation of Ca2+, K+, and Na+ channels, this finding would suggest that D1 receptors can mediate the functional activity of these ion channels. There is also evidence to indicate that D5 receptors couple to G(z)alpha, a novel G protein abundantly expressed in neurons. Thus, despite similar pharmacological properties, such differential coupling of D1 and D5 receptors to G proteins other than G(s)alpha, indicates that dopamine can transduce varied signaling responses upon the simultaneous stimulation of both these receptors.

Photoaffinity labeling of D1 and D5 dopamine receptors

Although human D1 and D5 dopamine receptors are encoded by distinct genes and share only 50% sequence homology at the amino acid level, their pharmacological properties are identical. Using a selective D1 receptor photoaffinity radioligand, (+/-)-7-[125I]iodo-8-hydroxy-3-methyl-1-(4-azidophenyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahyd ro-1H-3-benzazepine ([125I]MAB), we have further probed the molecular properties of these receptors in transfected GH4C1 rat pituitary cells. Under reversible, non-covalent binding conditions, [125I]MAB bound to both the D1 and the D5 receptors with identical affinities, dopaminergic selectivity and stereospecificity. Upon photoactivation of the bound [125I]MAB, the label was incorporated into a approximately 64,000 mol. wt protein corresponding to the D1 dopamine receptor. However, there was no specific photoincorporation of the ligand observed in D5 receptors. The lack of [125I]MAB photolabeling of D5 receptors was independent of the cell line chosen, since similar results were obtained using other transfected cells. The data suggest that although both D1 and D5 receptors share structurally similar binding sites, the protein domains around the sites are different. Thus, although there are currently no specific compounds which bind preferentially to D1 or D5 receptors, these receptors can be distinguished from one another by the inability of [125I]MAB to photolabel D5, but not D1, receptors. Such selective targeting of a specific receptor may be useful in understanding the functional importance and/or interaction between closely related members of the same receptor family when co-expressed in the same cell.

Development and characterization of antibodies directed against the mouse D4 dopamine receptor

Polyclonal antibodies against the mouse D4 dopamine receptor have been developed in order to investigate the anatomical localization of this receptor in the mouse brain. Two antibodies were generated against specific peptides corresponding to predicted extracellular and intracellular regions of the D4 protein. Specificity of these antibodies was demonstrated on human embryonic kidney 293 (HEK 293) cells transfected with different dopamine receptor subtypes; immunoreactivity was detected only in cells transfected with the mouse D4 dopamine receptor cDNA. Following in vitro transcription/translation of the mouse D4 cDNA, a single protein band of 36 kDa was selectively immunoprecipitated with the anti-D4 antibodies. The antibodies also detected a single protein of 36 kDa in Western blot of HEK 293 cells transiently transfected with the mouse D4 receptor. These antibodies were able to detect the D4 receptor in several regions of the mouse brain. In the regions examined, D4 immunoreactivity was found in neurones located in layers II-VI of the frontal and piriform cortices, with the highest concentration in layer II; in scattered neurones in the caudate putamen and in larger neurones in the globus pallidus. In all experiments, both antibodies exhibit the same specificity, and all immunoreactivity could be abolished by preincubation with the corresponding peptide antigen.

Layer V neurons bear the majority of mRNAs encoding the five distinct dopamine receptor subtypes in the primate prefrontal cortex

In situ hybridization histochemistry was used to determine the laminar distribution of D1, D2, D3, D4, and D5 dopamine receptor mRNAs in the primate prefrontal cortex and to compare striatal and cortical levels of these messages within the same tissue sections. All five subtypes of dopamine receptor mRNA are present in both the monkey striatum and the cerebral cortex but in different proportions within each structure. Thus, levels of D1 and D2 mRNAs are noticeably stronger in the striatum than in the cortex, whereas D4 and D5 expression is clearly higher in the cortex. The D3 transcripts appear nearly equivalent in the striatum and the cortex. A major finding is that, within the prefrontal cortex, mRNAs encoding all dopamine receptor subtypes are expressed most strongly in layer V. This laminar pattern of mRNA distribution does not hold in all cortical regions. The relatively high levels of mRNAs encoding known dopamine receptor subtypes in the primate cerebral cortex, including the D4 receptor, underscore the importance of this structure as a target for therapeutic actions of antipsychotic drugs. Further, their prominence in layer V of the prefrontal cortex, which contains the corticostriatal and corticotectal projection neurons, provides a neural basis for dopaminergic regulation of the descending control systems.

Dopamine receptors: from structure to function

The diverse physiological actions of dopamine are mediated by at least five distinct G protein-coupled receptor subtypes. Two D1-like receptor subtypes (D1 and D5) couple to the G protein Gs and activate adenylyl cyclase. The other receptor subtypes belong to the D2-like subfamily (D2, D3, and D4) and are prototypic of G protein-coupled receptors that inhibit adenylyl cyclase and activate K+ channels. The genes for the D1 and D5 receptors are intronless, but pseudogenes of the D5 exist. The D2 and D3 receptors vary in certain tissues and species as a result of alternative splicing, and the human D4 receptor gene exhibits extensive polymorphic variation. In the central nervous system, dopamine receptors are widely expressed because they are involved in the control of locomotion, cognition, emotion, and affect as well as neuroendocrine secretion. In the periphery, dopamine receptors are present more prominently in kidney, vasculature, and pituitary, where they affect mainly sodium homeostasis, vascular tone, and hormone secretion. Numerous genetic linkage analysis studies have failed so far to reveal unequivocal evidence for the involvement of one of these receptors in the etiology of various central nervous system disorders. However, targeted deletion of several of these dopamine receptor genes in mice should provide valuable information about their physiological functions.

Functional D1 and D5 dopamine receptors are expressed in the suprachiasmatic, supraoptic, and paraventricular nuclei of primates

In rodents, D1 dopamine receptors are expressed in the suprachiasmatic nucleus and are believed to play important roles in regulating circadian rhythms. It is not currently known if the primate circadian system can be influenced by dopaminergic agents, which have broad clinical use. To determine if dopamine receptors can potentially influence primate circadian function, we examined the expression of D1 dopamine receptors in the anterior hypothalamus of ring-tailed macaques (Macaca nemestrema), baboons (Papto sp.), and humans. Because D5 dopamine receptors also stimulate adenylyl cyclase activity, D5 dopamine receptor expression was studied as well. We used [125I]SCH 23982, which binds to D1 and D5 dopamine receptors, and labeling of the suprachiasmatic (SCN), supraoptic (SON), and paraventricular (PVN) nuclei was detectable in each species. In situ hybridization studies revealed differential expression of D1 and D5 dopamine receptor mRNA in the hypothalamus. D1 dopamine receptor mRNA was expressed in the SCN, SON, and PVN. By contrast, D5 dopamine receptor mRNA was expressed only in the SON and PVN of baboons and humans. Injection of the D1/D5 dopamine receptor agonist SKF 38393 at night increased the uptake of 2-deoxy-D-[14C]glucose in the SCN, SON, and PVN of newborn baboons. By contrast, c-fos mRNA expression was induced in the SON and PVN, but not in the SCN. These data show that D1 and D5 dopamine receptors are present in the hypothalamus of primates and show that activation of these receptors acutely influences SCN, SON, and PVN activity.

Epitope-tagged gonadotropin-releasing hormone receptors heterologously-expressed in mammalian (COS-1) and insect (Sf9) cells

The molecular cloning and nucleotide sequencing of the gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) receptor represented an enhanced step in the experimental effort to understand this key molecule in the reproductive process at a cell and molecular level. A subsequent step in this broad effort is heterologous expression of the receptor in model cell systems for studies of signal transduction and desensitization, processes that may require immunologic detection of the receptor. Therefore, the GnRH receptor was tagged at its N-terminus using recombinant DNA procedures with the HA-1 epitope that is bound by a monoclonal antibody (12CA5). COS-1 cells expressing this receptor bound [(125)I]D-Ala6-desGly10-GnRH ethylamide (GnRH-A) with the expected high affinity (IC(50) = 0.47 nM), and were immunocytochemically stained by the 12CA5 antibody. Signal transduction was demonstrated by GnRH-induced [(3)H]inositol phosphate accumulation in receptor-expressing COS-1 cells. Western blotting of COS-1 cell membranes expressing the receptor revealed protein bands at 67, 57, and 32 kDa. Immunoprecipitation occurred when the solubilized receptor from COS-1 cell membranes was reacted with 12CA5 antibody and anti-mouse IgG Sepharose, and the presence of the receptor demonstrated either by its binding of [(125)I]GnRH-A or by its detection on Western blots. Desensitization of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP(3)) production by N-epitope-tagged GnRH receptor expressing COS-1 cells was evoked by a five min GnRH pretreatment; [(32)P]i labeling of such cells during desensitization followed by immunoprecipitation of the N-epitope-tagged receptor was not associated with receptor phosphorylation. Finally, the epitope tagged receptor was expressed in the high-yield baculovirus/insect Sf9 cell system: the membrane receptor bound [(125)I]GnRH-A with slightly lowered affinity (IC(50) = 1.4 nM), and in Western blots yielded protein bands of 32, 56/57, 69, and 120/140 kDa. The development and validation of these heterologous systems will permit the study of several GnRH receptor-mediated processes that are poorly understood.

D2 dopamine receptors reduce N-type Ca2+ currents in rat neostriatal cholinergic interneurons through a membrane-delimited, protein-kinase-C-insensitive pathway

Dopamine has long been known to regulate the activity of striatal cholinergic interneurons and the release of acetylcholine. Yet, the cellular mechanisms by which this regulation occurs have not been elucidated. One way in which dopamine might act is by modulating voltage-dependent Ca2+ channels. To test this hypothesis, the impact of dopaminergic agonists on Ca2+ channels in neostriatal cholinergic interneurons was studied by combined whole cell voltage-clamp recording and single-cell reverse transcription-polymerase chain reactions. Cholinergic interneurons were identified by the presence of choline acetyltransferase mRNA. Nearly, all interneurons tested (90%, n = 17) coexpressed D2 (short and long isoforms) and D1b (D5) dopamine receptor mRNAs. D1a receptor mRNA was found in only a small subset (20%) of the sample and D3 and D4 receptor mRNAs were undetectable. D2 receptor agonists rapidly and reversibly reduced N-type Ca2+ currents. D1b/D1a receptor activation had little or no effect on Ca2+ currents. The D2 receptor antagonist sulpiride blocked the effect of D2 agonists. Dialysis with guanosine-5'-O-(2-thiodiphosphate) or brief exposure to the G protein (Gi/o) alkylating agent N-ethylmaleimide also blocked the D2 modulation. The reduction in N-type currents was neither accompanied by kinetic slowing nor significantly reversed by depolarizing prepulses. The D2 receptor effects were mediated by a membrane-delimited pathway, because the modulation was not seen in cell-attached patches when agonist was applied to the bath and was not disrupted by perturbations in cytosolic signaling pathways known to be linked to D2 receptors. Activation of M2 muscarinic receptors occluded the D2 modulation, suggesting a shared signaling element. However, activation of protein kinase C attenuated the M2 modulation without significantly affecting the D2 modulation. Taken together, our results suggest that activation of D2 dopamine receptors in cholinergic interneurons reduces N-type Ca2+ currents via a membrane-delimited, Gi/o class G protein pathway that is not regulated by protein kinase C. This signaling pathway may underlie the ability of D2 receptors to reduce striatal acetylcholine release.

Cellular distribution of the rat D1B receptor in central nervous system using anti-receptor antisera

Polyclonal antisera have been generated against two unique polypeptide fragments in the rat D1B dopamine (DA) receptor, as deduced from the cDNA sequence. Antisera titers were monitored using solid-phase ELISA. Once the titers were established, antisera specificity was determined using Chinese Hamster ovary (CHO) cells, stably transfected with the full-length cDNA for the rat D1B DA receptor. Immunoreactivity following staining with either anti-D1B DA receptor antisera was equivalent, selective for the D1B DA receptor-transfected CHO cells, and expressed at their membrane and within the cell cytoplasm. Minimal immunofluorescent staining for D1B DA receptor proteins was detected in untransfected CHO cells, or in D1A DA receptor-transfected CHO cells. The regional and cellular distribution patterns for the D1B DA receptor subtype were examined in various brain areas and illustrated significant protein levels within the frontal and parietal cortices and in the hippocampus and dentate gyrus. Lesser amounts of receptor protein staining were seen in the dorsal striatum, olfactory tubercle, and cerebellar vermis. D1B DA receptor protein staining was correlated with the cellular expression of D1B DA receptor mRNA transcripts in these same brain regions using concurrent fluorescent analyses. The homologous coincidence in staining patterns for the D1B DA receptor transcripts and encoded proteins in identified neurons of the frontal cortex and striatum showed variations in receptor expression in these identified basal ganglia pathways.

Molecular attributes of dopamine receptors: new potential for antipsychotic drug development

The neurotransmitter dopamine (DA) plays a central role in the control of motor function, emotional states, and endocrine physiology. The discovery that schizophrenic symptoms can be alleviated by neuroleptic drugs and the finding that these drugs interact at dopamine receptors has indicated involvement of the dopamine system in schizophrenia. The dopamine system has recently been shown to rely on the activation of five distinct subtypes of DA receptors (D1-D5) identified by molecular cloning, and pharmacological studies have specifically implicated the D2-like receptors (D2R, D3R and D4R) in antipsychotic action. In addition, the localization of D3R and D4R expression in the mesolimbic/mesocortical DA pathways is consistent with their proposed involvement in affective behaviour, and suggests that drugs developed specifically for these receptor subtypes might have potent antipsychotic activity with a lower propensity for extrapyramidal, endocrine, and cognitive side-effects.