Characterization of a P2Y purinoceptor in the brain

Studies towards the development of a PET radiotracer for imaging of the P2Y1 receptors in the brain: synthesis, 18F-labeling and preliminary biological evaluation

Purine nucleotides such as ATP and ADP are important extracellular signaling molecules in almost all tissues activating various subtypes of purinoreceptors. In the brain, the P2Y₁ receptor (P2Y₁R) subtype mediates trophic functions like differentiation and proliferation, and modulates fast synaptic transmission, both suggested to be affected in diseases of the central nervous system. Research on P2Y₁R is limited because suitable brain-penetrating P2Y₁R-selective tracers are not yet available. Here, we describe the first efforts to develop an ¹⁸F-labeled PET tracer based on the structure of the highly affine and selective, non-nucleotidic P2Y₁R allosteric modulator 1-(2-[2-(tert-butyl)phenoxy]pyridin-3-yl)-3-[4-(trifluoromethoxy)phenyl]urea (7). A small series of fluorinated compounds was developed by systematic modification of the p-(trifluoromethoxy)phenyl, the urea and the 2-pyridyl subunits of the lead compound 7. Additionally, the p-(trifluoromethoxy)phenyl subunit was substituted by carborane, a boron-rich cluster with potential applicability in boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT). By functional assays, the new fluorinated derivative 1-{2-[2-(tert-butyl)phenoxy]pyridin-3-yl}-3-[4-(2-fluoroethyl)phenyl]urea (18) was identified with a high P2Y₁R antagonistic potency (IC₅₀ = 10 nM). Compound [¹⁸F]18 was radiosynthesized by using tetra-n-butyl ammonium [¹⁸F]fluoride with high radiochemical purity, radiochemical yield and molar activities. Investigation of brain homogenates using hydrophilic interaction chromatography (HILIC) revealed [¹⁸F]fluoride as major radiometabolite. Although [¹⁸F]18 showed fast in vivo metabolization, the high potency and unique allosteric binding mode makes this class of compounds interesting for further optimizations and investigation of the theranostic potential as PET tracer and BNCT agent.

Small Molecules Enhance Scaffold-Based Bone Grafts via Purinergic Receptor Signaling in Stem Cells

The need for bone grafts is high, due to age-related diseases, such as tumor resections, but also accidents, risky sports, and military conflicts. The gold standard for bone grafting is the use of autografts from the iliac crest, but the limited amount of accessible material demands new sources of bone replacement. The use of mesenchymal stem cells or their descendant cells, namely osteoblast, the bone-building cells and endothelial cells for angiogenesis, combined with artificial scaffolds, is a new approach. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) can be obtained from the patient themselves, or from donors, as they barely cause an immune response in the recipient. However, MSCs never fully differentiate in vitro which might lead to unwanted effects in vivo. Interestingly, purinergic receptors can positively influence the differentiation of both osteoblasts and endothelial cells, using specific artificial ligands. An overview is given on purinergic receptor signaling in the most-needed cell types involved in bone metabolism-namely osteoblasts, osteoclasts, and endothelial cells. Furthermore, different types of scaffolds and their production methods will be elucidated. Finally, recent patents on scaffold materials, as wells as purinergic receptor-influencing molecules which might impact bone grafting, are discussed.

Functional expression of P2 purinoceptors in a primary neuroglial cell culture of the rat arcuate nucleus

The arcuate nucleus (ARC) plays an important role in the hypothalamic control of energy homeostasis. Expression of various purinoceptor subtypes in the rat ARC and physiological studies suggest a modulatory function of P2 receptors within the neuroglial ARC circuitry. A differentiated mixed neuronal and glial microculture was therefore established from postnatal rat ARC, revealing neuronal expression of ARC-specific transmitters involved in food intake regulation (neuropeptide Y (NPY), proopiomelanocortin (POMC), tyrosine hydroxylase (TH)). Some NPYergic neurons cosynthesized TH, while POMC and TH expression proved to be mutually exclusive. Stimulation with the general purinoceptor agonists 2-methylthioadenosine-5'triphosphate (2-MeSATP) and ATP but not the P2X1/P2X3 receptor subtype agonist α,β-methyleneadenosine-5'triphosphate (α,β-meATP) induced intracellular calcium signals in ARC neurons and astrocytes. Some 5-10% each of 2-MeSATP responsive neurons expressed POMC, NYP or TH. Supporting the calcium imaging data, radioligand binding studies to hypothalamic membranes showed high affinity for 2-MeSATP, ATP but not α,β-meATP to displace [α-(35)S]deoxyadenosine-5'thiotriphosphate ([(35)S]dATPαS) from P2 receptors. Repetitive superfusion with equimolar 2-MeSATP allowed categorization of ARC cells into groups with a high or low (LDD) degree of purinoceptor desensitization, the latter allowing further receptor characterization. Calcium imaging experiments performed at 37°C vs. room temperature showed further reduction of desensitization. Agonist-mediated intracellular calcium signals were suppressed in all LDD neurons but only 25% of astrocytes in the absence of extracellular calcium, suggestive of metabotropic P2Y receptor expression in the majority of ARC astrocytes. The highly P2Y1-selective receptor agonists MRS2365 and 2-methylthioadenosine-5'diphosphate (2-MeSADP) activated 75-85% of all 2-MeSATP-responsive ARC astrocytes. Taking into consideration the high potency to dose-dependently stimulate ARC cells of the LDD group, the high affinity for rat P2X(1-3) and low affinity for rat P2X4, P2X7 and P2Y receptor subtypes except P2Y1 and P2Y13, the agonist 2-MeSATP primarily acted upon P2X2 and P2Y1 purinoceptors to trigger intracellular calcium signaling in ARC neurons and astrocytes.

P2-Purinoceptors: Advances and therapeutic opportunities

The recent cloning of a number of distinct receptors belonging to the P₂-purinoceptor superfamily has provided conclusive evidence for a pivotal role for ATP and other nucleotides as effector molecules involved in cell-to-cell communication and the modulation of many basic aspects of tissue function. ATP itself is being clinically evaluated as a cytotoxic agent for the treatment of cancer and as an adjunct to inhalation anaesthetic use. The pyrimidine nucleotide, UTP, is in clinical trials for the treatment of cystic fibrosis. The stable ATP bioisostere, ARL 67085, is being developed as a novel antithrombotic agent, blocking with a superior safety profile and increased efficacy as compared to other agents. The diversity of P₂ receptors, with eleven having been defined using both pharmacological and molecular cloning criteria, indicates considerable additional potential and subtlety in regard to the effects of ATP on tissue function and pathophysiology.

The diverse series of recombinant P2Y purinoceptors

A cDNA encoding a P2Y purinoceptor was originally cloned from chick brain and the bovine and human homologues have recently been obtained. These are seven-transmembrane-domain polypetides, i.e. G protein-coupled receptors. When activated by agonists, this P2Y receptor mobilizes intracellular Ca2+ and has been shown to be coupled to inositol-1,4,5-trisphosphate formation. Its pharmacology has been established in several expression systems, using both ligand binding and functional responses: 2-methylthioATP has the highest potency of nucleotides and derivatives tested, while UTP and alpha, beta-methylene ATP are inactive. This was hence assigned as a new subtype of the pharmacologically defined P2Y receptors, P2Y1. P2Y1 receptors are exceptionally abundant in the brain. A P2U receptor reported by others can be designated P2Y2. Another P2 receptor subtype, P2Y3, now cloned as a cDNA from the brain and expressed in oocytes and in transfected cells, shows a quite different ligand potency profile to the first two. A fourth subtype is expressed primarily in certain haemopoietic cells and in cardiac muscle. A putative fifth subtype is expressed only in T lymphocytes, upon activation. Yet other P2Y subtypes are indicated by recent cloning studies. The amino acid sequences of all of these P2 receptors, while displaying some homology, are strikingly diverse: they form a separate and unusual new family in the G protein-coupled receptor main superfamily.

P2 purinoceptors: historical perspective and classification

This article presents an overview that gives some historical perspective to the detailed papers at the cutting edge of P2 purinoceptor research that follow. I consider the proposal, first put forward by Abbracchio & Burnstock (Pharmacol Ther 64:445-475, 1994), that P2 purinoceptors should be regarded as members of two main families: a P2X purinoceptor family consisting of ligand-gated ion channels, and a P2Y purinoceptor family consisting of G protein-coupled receptors. The latest subclasses of these two families (P2X1-4 and P2Y1-5), identified largely on the basis of molecular cloning and expression, are tabled. Finally, I suggest some future directions for P2 purinoceptor research, including studies of the long-term (trophic) actions of purines, the evolution and development of purinoceptors and therapeutic applications.

Challenges in developing P2 purinoceptor-based therapeutics

Advances in the molecular cloning, expression and functional characterization of the P2 purinoceptor superfamily have provided a wealth of data to support a diverse functional role for ATP and related nucleotides in the regulation of tissue function. As with other receptor superfamilies, it is likely that distinct subtypes of each receptor will subserve discrete functions depending on tissue distribution and disease pathophysiology. At the present time, ATP is being evaluated as an anticancer agent and as an anaesthesia adjunct whereas UTP is studied as a novel treatment for cystic fibrosis. ARL67085 is a potent and selective P2T receptor antagonist that has potential as a novel antithrombotic agent. The key to exploiting the P2 purinoceptor area to enhance understanding of disease aetiology and concurrent therapeutic potential will be to focus efforts on the identification of novel pharmacophores that have potent and selective interactions with the various receptor subtypes as potential new leads. To this end, the use of high-throughput screening in conjunction with combinatorial chemical, conventional chemical and natural product library compound sources will be critical.

Metabotropic P2Y purinoceptor-mediated presynaptic and postsynaptic enhancement of cerebellar GABAergic transmission

Cerebellar GABAergic inhibitory transmission is under heterosynaptic control mediated by diverse chemical messengers. Here, we investigated roles of metabotropic P2Y purinoceptors (P2YRs) on GABAergic synapses between cerebellar interneurons and Purkinje cells (PCs). Activation of P2Y purinoceptors by two selective agonists, ADP and 2-methylthio-ADP (2MeSADP), elicited two distinct forms of synaptic plasticity of GABAergic transmission in the cerebellar cortex. First, the two agonists induced long-lasting enhancement of stimulation-evoked GABAergic IPSCs as well as GABA(A) receptor currents in PCs. This effect was completely abolished by intracellular infusion of the Ca2+-chelating agent BAPTA. Measurements of intracellular Ca2+ ([Ca2+]i) dynamics showed that puff application of 2MeSADP produced an increase in [Ca2+]i of PCs and that this increase persisted in an external Ca2+-deficient medium. These results suggest that P2Y activation postsynaptically elicits long-term enhancement of GABA(A) receptor sensitivity of PCs through a Gq-mediated increase in [Ca2+]i. The other action of P2YR agonists on cerebellar GABAergic synapses was that they produced a short-term increase in the frequency and the amplitude of spontaneous GABAA receptor-mediated IPSCs in PCs in a manner sensitive to a P2Y1R antagonist, N6-methyl 2'-deoxyadenosine 3',5'-bisphosphate. This action appeared to be attributable to an excitability increase in presynaptic GABAergic interneurons, because ADP excited all Lugaro cells examined and some of interneurons in the molecular layer. These results suggest that activation of cerebellar P2Y purinoceptors leads to modulation of GABAergic transmission in different spatial and temporal domains, namely short-term and long-term plasticity through presynaptic and postsynaptic mechanisms at interneuron-->PC inhibitory synapses in the rat cerebellar cortex.

Kinetics of [35S]dATPalphaS interaction with P2Y1 purinoceptor in rat brain membranes

Kinetics of [35S]dATPalphaS (2'deoxyadenosine-5'-[alpha-35S]-thiotriphosphate) interaction with rat brain membrane fragments was studied at 25 degrees C and at radioligand concentrations from 2 to 250 nM. At least two different ways of [35S]dATPalphaS interaction with the membranes were distinguished on the basis of radioligand on-rate. Firstly, the binding sites characterized by 'fast' on-rate can be observed. Secondly, the 'slow' binding sites were kinetically identified and quantified. As in both cases the bound radioligand could be displaced by excess of ATP, all these binding sites can be defined as 'specific sites'. In the 'slow' binding sites isomerization of the receptor-ligand complex was observed, as is typical for interaction of antagonists with G-protein coupled receptors, and the kinetic parameters for this interaction were similar with the appropriate data for the hP2Y1 receptors expressed in 1321N1 astrocytoma cells Therefore these sites could be assigned to the same receptor subtype in brain membranes while the 'fast' binding sites belong to other membrane-bound proteins, also interacting with ATP and its analogues. The kinetic properties of the latter sites were not analysed in detail.

Evidence for multiple P2Y receptors in trabecular meshwork cells

The purpose of this study was to determine whether functional purinergic P2 receptors are present in trabecular meshwork cells. The human trabecular cell line HTM-3 and cultured bovine trabecular cells were used to assess the effects of P2 agonists on intracellular Ca(2+) levels, extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK1/2) activation, and P2Y receptor expression. ATP, UTP, ADP, and 2-methyl-thio-adenosine triphosphate (2-MeS-ATP) each produced a concentration-dependent increase in intracellular Ca(2+) in bovine trabecular cells and the HTM-3 cell line. The addition of UDP did not produce any detectable rise in intracellular Ca(2+). Pretreatment with the P2Y(1) receptor antagonist 2'-deoxy-N(6)-methyladenosine-3',5'-diphosphate (MRS-2179) blocked the ADP- and 2-MeS-ATP-induced rise in intracellular Ca(2+). However, the ATP- or UTP-induced rise in intracellular Ca(2+) was not inhibited by MRS-2179 pretreatment. The addition of ADP, 2-MeS-ATP, ATP, or UTP were also found to activate the ERK1/2 signaling pathway. This activation of ERK1/2 was blocked by pretreatment with the mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase inhibitor 1,4-diamino-2,3-dicyano-1,4-bis(o-aminophenylmercapto)butadiene (U-0126) or the protein kinase C inhibitor chelerythrine chloride, but not by MRS-2179. Analysis of mRNA from HTM-3 cells by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction revealed the expression of P2Y(1), P2Y(4), and P2Y(11) receptor subtypes. These data demonstrate that multiple P2Y receptors are present in trabecular cells. Our results are consistent with the idea that the mobilization of intracellular Ca(2+)results from the activation of P2Y(1) and P2Y(4) receptors, whereas the activation of the ERK1/2 pathway results from the activation of P2Y(4) receptors alone. However, a role for the P2Y(11) receptors in mobilization of Ca(2+), or activation of the ERK1/2 pathway, cannot be discounted.

Cellular Distribution and Functions of P2 Receptor Subtypes in Different Systems

This review is aimed at providing readers with a comprehensive reference article about the distribution and function of P2 receptors in all the organs, tissues, and cells in the body. Each section provides an account of the early history of purinergic signaling in the organ?cell up to 1994, then summarizes subsequent evidence for the presence of P2X and P2Y receptor subtype mRNA and proteins as well as functional data, all fully referenced. A section is included describing the plasticity of expression of P2 receptors during development and aging as well as in various pathophysiological conditions. Finally, there is some discussion of possible future developments in the purinergic signaling field.

Quantitation of the P2Y(1) receptor with a high affinity radiolabeled antagonist

2-Chloro-N(6)-methyl-(N )-methanocarba-2'-deoxyadenosine-3',5'- bisphosphate (MRS2279) was developed previously as a selective high-affinity, non-nucleotide P2Y(1) receptor (P2Y1-R) antagonist (J Med Chem 43:829-842, 2002; Br J Pharmacol 135:2004-2010, 2002). We have taken advantage of the N(6)-methyl substitution in the adenine base to incorporate [(3)H]methylamine into the synthesis of [(3)H]MRS2279 to high (89 Ci/mmol) specific radioactivity and have used this molecule as a radioligand for the P2Y1-R. [(3)H]MRS2279 bound to membranes from Sf9 insect cells expressing recombinant human P2Y1-R but not to membranes from wild-type Sf9 cells or Sf9 cells expressing high levels of recombinant P2Y(2) or P2Y(12) receptors. Equilibrium binding of [(3)H]MRS2279 to P2Y1-R expressed in Sf9 membranes was with a high affinity (K(d) = 8 nM) essentially identical to the apparent affinity of MRS2279 determined previously in studies of P2Y1-R-promoted inositol phosphate accumulation or platelet aggregation. A kinetically derived K(d) calculated from independent determinations of the rate constants of association (7.15 x 10(7) M(-1) min(-1)) and dissociation (0.72 min(-1)) of [(3)H]MRS2279 also was in good agreement with the K(d) derived from equilibrium binding studies. Competition binding assays with [(3)H]MRS2279 and P2Y1-R expressing Sf9 cell membranes revealed K(i) values for the P2Y1-R antagonists MRS2279 (K(i) = 13 nM), N(6)-methyl-2'-deoxyadenosine-3',5'-bisphosphate (MRS2179; K(i) = 84 nM), adenosine-3', 5'-bisphosphate (K(i)=900 nM), and pyridoxal phosphate-6-azophenyl-2',4'-disulfonic acid (K(i) = 6 microM) that were in good agreement with antagonist activities of these molecules previously determined at the P2Y1-R in intact tissues. Moreover, [(3)H]MRS2279 also bound with high affinity (K(d) = 4-8 nM) to Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) or 1321N1 human astrocytoma cells stably expressing the human P2Y1-R, but specific binding was not observed in wild-type CHO or 1321N1 cells. [(3)H]MRS2279 bound with high affinity (K(d) = 16 nM) to a binding site on out-dated human platelets (5-35 receptors/platelet) and rat brain membranes (210 fmol/mg protein) that fit the expected drug selectivity of a P2Y1-R. Taken together, these results indicate that [(3)H]MRS2279 is the first broadly applicable antagonist radioligand for a P2Y receptor.

Kinetic analysis of [35S]dATP alpha S interaction with P2y(1) nucleotide receptor

The kinetics of 2'-deoxyadenosine-5'-O-(1-thiotriphosphate) ([(35)S]dATP alpha S) interaction with membrane fragments of transfected astrocytoma 1321N1 cells, expressing human P2Y(1) receptors, and the same wild-type cells, not expressing P2Y receptors were studied. Binding of this radioligand was observed with both types of membranes, but sites showing slow on-rate were found only on the transfected cells. These "slow" binding sites behaved as a kinetically homogeneous population and their interaction with the radioligand was shown to occur in two steps, R+A(K(A))<==>RA(k(i))<==>(k(-i))(RA), including the relatively slow isomerization of the complex RA into (RA). Evidence was obtained to assign the isomerized ("slow") binding sites on the transfected cells as P2Y(1) receptor sites, differentiated from other binding sites of non-receptor origin by kinetic analysis, and characterised by the kinetic parameters K(A)=59 +/- 19 nM, k(i)=(9.0 +/- 0.8)10(-3)s(-1) and k(-i)=(3.9 +/- 0.7)10(-3)s(-1). [(35)S]dATP alpha S binding, with kinetic criteria, can be of value for differentiation of the receptor sites from non-receptor sites and thus provides solid basis for radioligand assay of P2Y(1) receptors.

Interaction between P2Y and NMDA receptors in layer V pyramidal neurons of the rat prefrontal cortex

In the first part of this study, monosynaptic excitatory postsynaptic potentials (EPSPs) in layer V of the rat prefrontal cortex were evoked by electrical stimulation of layer I. Recordings by intracellular sharp microelectrodes showed that EPSPs were concentration-dependently facilitated by the P2 receptor antagonistic ATP analogue 2-methylthio ATP (2-MeSATP), while ATP itself depressed the synaptic potentials. The inhibitory effect of ATP turned into facilitation in the presence of the adenosine A(1) receptor antagonist DPCPX. The 2-MeSATP-induced potentiation of EPSP amplitudes were prevented by the P2 receptor antagonists PPADS and Suramin. The EPSP was almost abolished by coapplication of the NMDA receptor antagonist AP-5 and the AMPA/kainate receptor antagonist CNQX. After blockade of the NMDA receptor-mediated part of the EPSP by AP-5, the stimulatory effect of 2-MeSATP disappeared. When NMDA or AMPA were pressure-applied onto pyramidal cells, only the NMDA-induced depolarization was potentiated by 2-MeSATP. In the second part of the study, NMDA-induced currents were measured by whole-cell patch-clamp pipettes. ATP, 2-MeSATP, UDP and UTP potentiated the response to NMDA, while ADP-beta-S was inactive. PPADS antagonized the effect of ATP. Synaptic isolation of pyramidal neurons by a Ca(2+)-free medium or tetrodotoxin did not alter the effect of ATP which, however, was markedly depressed when GTP in the micropipette was replaced by GDP-beta-S. These observations suggest that in layer V pyramidal neurons of the prefrontal cortex postsynaptically localized P2Y receptors interact with NMDA receptor-channels.

Regional distribution of [35S]2'-deoxy 5'-O-(1-thio) ATP binding sites and the P2Y1 messenger RNA within the chick brain

The distribution of the P2Y1 receptor protein and transcript in the one-day-old chick brain were determined by quantitative in vitro ligand autoradiography and in situ hybridization histochemistry. We have previously used [35S]2'-deoxy 5'-O-(1-thio) ATP as a radioligand for the recombinant P2Y1 receptor transiently expressed in COS-7 cells and have also shown that such sites are present at high density (Bmax: approximately 37 pmol radioligand bound/mg protein) in chick brain membranes. Here we report the macroscopic localization of these [35S]2'-deoxy 5'-O-(1-thio) ATP binding sites within the chick brain. They were found to be widely distributed there (within the range of 0.047 +/- 0.012 to 0.309 +/- 0.035 pmol bound/mg wet tissue). The affinities of P2 agonists and antagonists at these binding sites was comparable to that found previously for the recombinant P2Y1 receptor. In parallel experiments, the regional and cellular localization of the P2Y1 receptor messenger RNA was examined by in situ hybridization. The transcript was also found to be widely distributed throughout the brain. High levels of hybridization were detected in the cortex piriformis, ectostriatum, hippocampus, cerebellum and in a range of discrete nuclei throughout the brain, including the ovoidalis, isthmo-opticus and spiriformis lateralis nuclei. Localization at cellular level indicates that this receptor transcript is expressed in neurons and also at non-neuronal sites. Furthermore, the distribution of the P2Y1 transcript and the [35S]2'-deoxy 5'-O-(1-thio) ATP binding sites matched in a number of the regions and structures mentioned above. The present study clarifies the anatomical distribution of the P2Y1 receptor within the chick brain. Its broad distribution coupled with its neuronal expression suggest an important role for this type of metabotropic nucleotide receptor within the brain.

Coexpression of ligand-gated P2X and G protein-coupled P2Y receptors in smooth muscle. Preferential activation of P2Y receptors coupled to phospholipase C (PLC)-beta1 via Galphaq/11 and to PLC-beta3 via Gbetagammai3

P2 receptor subtypes and their signaling mechanisms were characterized in dispersed smooth muscle cells. UTP and ATP stimulated inositol 1,4,5-triphosphate formation, Ca2+ release, and contraction that were abolished by U-73122 and guanosine 5'-O-(3-thio)diphosphate, and partly inhibited (50-60%) by pertussis toxin (PTX). ATP analogs (adenosine 5'-(alpha, beta-methylene)triphosphate, adenosine 5'-(beta, gamma-methylene)triphosphate, and 2-methylthio-ATP) stimulated Ca2+ influx and contraction that were abolished by nifedipine and in Ca2+-free medium. Micromolar concentrations of ATP stimulated both Ca2+ influx and Ca2+ release. ATP and UTP activated Gq/11 and Gi3 in gastric and aortic smooth muscle and heart membranes, Gq/11 and Gi1 and/or Gi2 in liver membranes, and Go and Gi1-3 in brain membranes. Phosphoinositide hydrolysis stimulated by ATP and UTP was mediated concurrently by Galphaq/11-dependent activation of phospholipase (PL) C-beta1 and Gbetagammai3-dependent activation of PLC-beta3. Phosphoinositide hydrolysis was partially inhibited by PTX or by antibodies to Galphaq/11, Gbeta, PLC-beta1, or PLC-beta3, and completely inhibited by the following combinations (PLC-beta1 and PLC-beta3 antibodies; Galphaq/11 and Gbeta antibodies; PLC-beta1 and Gbeta antibodies; PTX with either PLC-beta1 or Galphaq/11 antibody). The pattern of responses implied that P2Y2 receptors in visceral, and probably vascular, smooth muscle are coupled to PLC-beta1 via Galphaq/11 and to PLC-beta3 via Gbetagammai3. These receptors co-exist with ligand-gated P2X1 receptors activated by ATP analogs and high levels of ATP.

Nucleotide receptors in the nervous system. An abundant component using diverse transduction mechanisms

Extracellular nucleotides achieve their role as cell-to-cell communicators by acting at cell surface transmembrane receptors-the P2 receptors. Before molecular cloning led to the isolation of any P2-receptor sequence, a small number of receptor types had been proposed on the basis of pharmacological evidence. The application of molecular biology to this field of receptor research has indicated that a great underestimation of the number of receptor subtypes and of their abundance had occurred. There are now known to be seven characterized P2Y (G protein linked) receptors and the same number again of P2X receptors of the transmitter-gated ion channel type. In this review, we discuss the properties of these cloned receptors, their distribution within the nervous system, and their methods of signal transduction.

Distribution of [35S]dATP alpha S binding sites in the adult rat neuraxis

Highly abundant, saturable and specific binding sites for [35S]2'-deoxyadenosine 5'-O-(1-thio) triphosphate ([35S]dATP alpha S, Kd: 9 +/- 2 nM; Bmax: 39 +/- 8 pmol/mg protein) are present in adult rat brain membranes and have characteristics consistent with those expected for a P2Y1 receptor. The anatomical distribution of these binding sites in the brain and spinal cord was examined using in vitro autoradiography. The [35S]dATP alpha S binding sites showed a widespread distribution throughout the brain and spinal cord. They could be displaced by a large excess (100 microM) of 2-methylthioATP (2MeS-ATP) but not by uridine-5'-triphosphate (UTP) or alpha,beta-methyleneATP (alpha,beta-meATP). Within the cortical regions labelling was of equal medium density. However, discrete structures and nuclei within the olfactory bulb, subcortical telencephalon, hippocampal complex, thalamic regions and mesencephalon displayed a variety of densities. Within the spinal cord, gray matter was labelled at a greater density than the funiculi. The present study clarifies the anatomical distribution of P2Y1 and closely related receptors within the central nervous system of rat and extends the evidence that those receptors are abundant and widely distributed within the neuraxis.

Characterization of [35S]-ATP alpha S and [3H]-alpha, beta-MeATP binding sites in rat brain cortical synaptosomes: regulation of ligand binding by divalent cations

1. We made a comparative analysis of the binding characteristics of the radioligands [35S]-ATP alpha S and [3H]-alpha, beta-MeATP in order to test whether these ligands can be used to analyse P2-purinoceptors in synaptosomal membranes from rat brain cortex. 2. Synaptosomes possess sites with high affinity for [35S]-ATP alpha S (Kd = 22.2 +/- 9.1 nM, Bmax = 14.8 pmol mg-1 protein). The rank order of the competition potency of the different compounds (ATP alpha S, ATP, ATP gamma S > ADP beta S, 2-MeSATP > deoxyATP, ADP > > UTP, alpha, beta-MeATP, AMP, Reactive Blue-2, suramin, isoPPADS) is consistent with pharmacological properties of P2Y-purinoceptors. 3. Under identical conditions [35S]-ATP alpha S and [3H]-alpha, beta-MeATP bind to different binding sites at synaptosomal membranes from rat brain cortex. The affinity of the [3H]-alpha, beta-MeATP binding sites (Kd = 13.7 +/- 1.8 nM, Bmax = 6.34 +/- 0.28 pmol mg-1 protein) was 38 fold higher than the potency of alpha, beta-MeATP to displace [35S]-ATP alpha S binding (Ki = 0.52 microM). ATP and ADP beta S competed at both binding sites with different affinities, 60 fold and 175 fold, respectively. The other agonists tested (2-MeSATP, UTP, GTP) did not affect specific [35H]-alpha, beta-MeATP binding at concentrations up to 100 microM. The antagonists (suramin, isoPPADS, Evan's Blue) showed completely different affinities for both binding sites. 4. Binding of [35S]-ATP alpha S on synaptosomes was regulated by GTP, which is indicative for G-protein coupled receptors. The Kd value for the high affinity binding site was reduced in the presence of GTP about 5 fold (from 1.8 nM to 8.6 nM). In the presence of Mg2+ the affinity was increased (Kd 1.8 nM versus 22 nM in the absence of Mg2+). 5. The binding of both radioligands was regulated in an opposite manner by physiological concentrations of Ca2+ and Mg2+. Binding of [3H]-alpha, beta-MeATP to synaptosomal membranes was increased 3 fold by raising the Ca2+ concentration from 10 microM to 1 mM, whereas the addition of Mg2+ in the same concentration range resulted in an 80% reduction of the binding. In contrast, [35S]-ATP alpha S binding was not influenced at the same range of Ca2+ or Mg2+ concentrations (10 microM to 1 mM). The addition of Mg2+ (5 mM) increased the affinity of [35S]-ATP alpha S for the high affinity site 10 fold. 6. Diadenosine polyphosphates had a bimodal effect on [35S]-ATP alpha S binding to synaptosomal membranes. AP5A and Ap6A enhanced binding of [35S]-ATP alpha S 1.6 fold in a concentration range between 0.1 and 50 microM. Ap3A was a weak inhibitor with a Ki value of 7.2 microM. Ap4A, AP5A and Ap6A inhibited with Ki values > 100 microM. These data support the concept that diadenosine polyphosphates do not directly interact with ATP alpha S binding sites. 7. In conclusion, on the basis of present knowledge of the interaction of P2-purinoceptor active compounds with P2x- and/or P2Y-purinoceptors, our data strongly suggest that [35S]-ATP alpha S is a useful tool to study P2Y-purinoceptors. Thus, the [35S]-ATP alpha S binding site might to a large extent represent P2Y-purinoceptors in synaptosomes from rat brain cortex. The nucleotide binding is regulated by G proteins, indicated by the effects of GTP/Mg2+ on binding.

Nucleotide receptors

Adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP) and/or related nucleotides act at both ionotropic (P2X) and metabotropic (P2Y) receptors. P2X receptor subunits (P2X1-P2X7) form ligand-gated cation channels, as homomultimers or heteromultimers. Recent work indicates that P2X3 subunits participate in channels expressed by nociceptive sensory neurons, and that the second of the two transmembrane domains of each subunit contributes to the ion permeation pathway. P2X7 subunits form large cytolytic pores in addition to cation channels; they have been found in macrophages and brain microglia. P2Y receptors form a distinct subset of G-protein-coupled receptors; most couple through G proteins to phospholipase C, but inhibition of adenylate cyclase and N-type Ca2+ channels, and activation of K+ channels also occurs. Expressed P2Y receptors have generally been distinguished pharmacologically by the rank order of effectiveness of agonists; some prefer pyrimidines to purines. Recent studies suggest that it is important to use purified nucleotides in such classifications. Several P2Y receptors have a very widespread tissue distribution.

An examination of deoxyadenosine 5'(alpha-thio)triphosphate as a ligand to define P2Y receptors and its selectivity as a low potency partial agonist of the P2Y1 receptor

1. The functional activity of deoxyadenosine 5'(alpha-thio)triphosphate (dATP alpha S) was assessed at the cloned human P2Y1 receptor stably expressed in 1321N1 human astrocytoma cells and transiently expressed in Cos-7 cells. 2. Cells expressing the receptor responded to adenine nucleotides with an increase in [3H]-inositol phosphate accumulation. Half-maximal responses were obtained at approximately 30 nM for 2-methylthioadenosine-5'-triphosphate (2MeSATP), 300 nM for dATP alpha S, and 1000 nM for adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP). dATP alpha S produced a maximal response that was only 37 +/- 4% of that produced by ATP or 2MeSATP. dATP alpha S also competitively antagonized the phospholipase C response to 2MeSATP with a KB of 644 +/- 14 nM. Thus dATP alpha S acts as a low potency partial agonist at P2Y1 receptors. 3. The selectivity of dATP alpha S for P2Y1 receptors was determined by examining its capacity to activate P2Y2, P2Y4 and P2Y6 receptors also stably expressed in 1321N1 cells. Although dATP alpha S was a partial agonist at P2Y1 receptors it was a full agonist at P2Y2 receptors, albeit with a potency that was two orders of magnitude lower than at P2Y1 receptors. No agonist or antagonist activity was observed at P2Y4 and P2Y6 receptors. 4. Although [35S]-dATP alpha S bound to a relatively high density (ca 10 pmol mg-1 protein) of binding sites in membranes from 1321N1 or Cos-7 cells expressing the P2Y1 receptor, no difference in the total density of sites was observed between membranes from wild-type, empty vector-transfected, or P2Y1 receptor-expressing cells. Moreover, adenine nucleotide analogues inhibited [35S]-dATP alpha S binding with an order of potency that differed markedly from that for the accumulation of inositol phosphates in intact transfected P2Y1 receptor-expressing cells. Saturation binding experiments demonstrated multiple affinity states for [35S]-dATP alpha S binding in wild-type Cos-7 cell membranes. These data from 1321N1 and Cos-7 cells suggest that cellular membranes exhibit a large number of high affinity binding sites for [35S]-dATP alpha S that are not related to P2Y receptor subtypes.

The P2Y purinoceptor in rat brain microvascular endothelial cells couple to inhibition of adenylate cyclase

1. B10 cells, a clonal line of rat brain capillary endothelial cells, exhibit a single P2 purinoceptor, activation of which leads to increases in free intracellular calcium. In the current study the identity of this P2Y receptor was determined by its binding parameters for a range of purinoceptor ligands and by its complementary DNA (cDNA) sequence. The signal transduction mechanism activated by this receptor was also investigated. 2. The radioligand [35S]-dATP alpha S bound with high affinity (Kd = 9.8 nM) to the P2Y purinoceptor expressed on B10 cells, which was found to be extremely abundant (Bmax = 22.5 pmol mg-1 protein). The calculated Ki values of a range of P2 purinoceptor agonists which competitively displaced binding of [35S]-dATP alpha S led to the rank order of affinity: dATP alpha S (Ki 3.4 nM) > 2-chloroATP (2-ClATP) (13 nM), ATP (22 nM) > ATP gamma S (43 nM) > 2-methylthioATP (2-MeSATP) (88 nM) > ADP (368 nM) > > UTP, L-beta,gamma-methyleneATP (both > 10,000 nM). The P2 purinoceptor antagonists, Reactive blue 2 and suramin, were also able to displace binding, with Ki values of 833 and 1358 nM respectively. In contrast pyridoxal-phosphate-6-azophenyl-2',4'-disulphonic acid 4-sodium (PPADS) was able to displace only 20% of [35S]-dATP alpha S binding at a concentration of 100 microM. 3. 2-ClATP (EC50 = 0.22 microM), 2-MeSATP (0.54 microM), ADP (7.9 microM) and ATP (a partial agonist), but not UTP, inhibited the cyclic AMP formation stimulated by cholera toxin, in a manner that was prevented by pertussis toxin. The purinoceptor antagonist, PPADS, was found to be inactive at a concentration of 100 microM. 4. A P2Y receptor cDNA was derived from mRNA from B10 cells and from C6-2B, a rat glioma cell line known to possess a P2Y receptor that is coupled to the inhibition of adenylate cyclase. Sequence analysis of the entire coding region revealed that both were 100% identical to the rat P2Y1 purinoceptor cDNA. No other P2Y-type receptor mRNA could be detected in B10 cells. Exactly the same sequence was isolated from rat brain cortical astrocytes, where 2-MeSATP has been shown to increase phospholipase C activity. 5. Since the receptor responsible for the transduction shares with the aforementioned binding site significant pharmacological features, including a strong activity of 2-MeSATP (characteristic of P2Y1 receptors alone among all known P2Y purinoceptors) and an unusual insensitivity to PPADS, and since abundant mRNA is present of the P2Y1 receptor but not of any other type resembling the known P2Y receptors, it is concluded that a P2Y1 receptor on rat brain microvascular endothelial cells can account for all of the observations. This single P2Y1 receptor, therefore, appears to couple in different native cell types to either adenylate cyclase inhibition or to phospholipase C activation.

Characterisation of a recombinant P2Y purinoceptor

We have previously cloned a cDNA encoding a G-protein-coupled P2 purinoceptor from chick brain and designated this as a P2Y1 purinoceptor (Webb, T.E., J. Simon, B.J. Krishek, A.N. Bateson, T.G. Smart, B.J. King, G. Bumstock and E.A. Barnard, 1993, FEBS Lett. 324, 219). Here, we describe the further characterisation of this recombinant receptor expressed in both simian kidney endothelial (COS-7) cells and Xenopus oocytes. In transfected COS-7 cell membranes, the recombinant receptor showed a high level of expression (Bmax = 7.9 +/- 2.2. pmol [35S]dATP alpha S bound/mg protein) and affinity (Kd = 6.6 +/- 0.3 nM). In these COS-7 cells, the activation of the implanted purinoceptor induced a suramin-sensitive formation of inositol 1,4,5-triphosphatic (1,4,5InsP3). Upon expression in Xenopus oocytes, ATP was the only natural nucleoside triphosphate to elicit a Ca(2+)-activated chloride current. The P2 purinoceptor antagonists suramin and Reactive Blue-2 were both able to inhibit this evoked current. Utilizing both expression systems, the binding affinity profile and the functional pharmacological profile of the agonists, the common series found was: 2-methylthioATP (2-MeSATP) > or = ATP > ADP beta S > ADP. These two agonist series and the lack of activity of adenosine, alpha, beta-methyleneATP (alpha, beta-meATP), 3'-O-(4-benzoyl) benzoyl-ATP (Bz-ATP) and UTP, together confirmed that this receptor is a specific subtype of the P2Y purinoceptors.