[125I]-[d(CH2)5, Sar7]AVP: a selective radioligand for V1 vasopressin receptors

Neuroanatomical distribution and function of the vasopressin V1B receptor in the rat brain deciphered using specific fluorescent ligands

It is now accepted that vasopressin, through V_1A/V_1B receptors, centrally regulates cognitive functions such as memory, affiliation, stress, fear and depression. However, the respective roles of these receptor isoforms and their contribution to stress-related pathologies remain uncertain. The development of new therapeutic treatments requires a precise knowledge of the distribution of these receptors within the brain, which has been so far hampered by the lack of selective V_1B markers. In the present study, we have determined the pharmacological properties of three new potent rat V_1B fluorescent ligands and demonstrated that they constitute valuable tools for simultaneous visualization and activation of native V_1B receptors in living rat brain tissue. Thus, d[Leu⁴,Lys-Alexa 647)⁸]VP (analogue 3), the compound with the best affinity-selectivity/fluorescence ratio for the V_1B receptor emerged as the most promising. The rat brain regions most concerned by stress such as hippocampus, olfactory bulbs, cortex and amygdala display the highest V_1B fluorescent labelling with analogue 3. In the hippocampus CA₂, V_1B receptors are located on glutamatergic, not GABAergic neurones, and are absent from astrocytes. Using AVP-EGFP rats, we demonstrate the presence of V_1B autoreceptors on AVP-secreting neurones not only in the hypothalamus, but also sparsely in the hippocampus. Finally, using both electrophysiology and visualization of ERK phosphorylation, we show analogue 3-induced activation of the V_1B receptor in situ. This will help to analyse expression and functionality of V_1B receptors in the brain and contribute to further explore the AVPergic circuitry in normal and pathological conditions.

Oxytocin and vasopressin agonists and antagonists as research tools and potential therapeutics

We recently reviewed the status of peptide and nonpeptide agonists and antagonists for the V(1a), V(1b) and V(2) receptors for arginine vasopressin (AVP) and the oxytocin receptor for oxytocin (OT). In the present review, we update the status of peptides and nonpeptides as: (i) research tools and (ii) therapeutic agents. We also present our recent findings on the design of fluorescent ligands for V(1b) receptor localisation and for OT receptor dimerisation. We note the exciting discoveries regarding two novel naturally occurring analogues of OT. Recent reports of a selective VP V(1a) agonist and a selective OT agonist point to the continued therapeutic potential of peptides in this field. To date, only two nonpeptides, the V(2) /V(1a) antagonist, conivaptan and the V(2) antagonist tolvaptan have received Food and Drug Administration approval for clinical use. The development of nonpeptide AVP V(1a), V(1b) and V(2) antagonists and OT agonists and antagonists has recently been abandoned by Merck, Sanofi and Pfizer. A promising OT antagonist, Retosiban, developed at Glaxo SmithKline is currently in a Phase II clinical trial for the prevention of premature labour. A number of the nonpeptide ligands that were not successful in clinical trials are proving to be valuable as research tools. Peptide agonists and antagonists continue to be very widely used as research tools in this field. In this regard, we present receptor data on some of the most widely used peptide and nonpeptide ligands, as a guide for their use, especially with regard to receptor selectivity and species differences.

Design, synthesis, and pharmacological characterization of fluorescent peptides for imaging human V1b vasopressin or oxytocin receptors

Among the four known vasopressin and oxytocin receptors, the specific localization of the V1b isoform is poorly described because of the lack of selective pharmacological tools. In an attempt to address this need, we decided to design, synthesize, and characterize fluorescent selective V1b analogues. Starting with the selective V1b agonist [deamino-Cys(1),Leu(4),Lys(8)]vasopressin (d[Leu(4),Lys(8)]VP) synthesized earlier, we added blue, green, or red fluorophores to the lysine residue at position 8 either directly or by the use of linkers of different lengths. Among the nine analogues synthesized, two exhibited very promising properties. These are d[Leu(4),Lys(Alexa 647)(8)]VP (3) and d[Leu(4),Lys(11-aminoundecanoyl-Alexa 647)(8)]VP (9). They remained full V1b agonists with nanomolar affinity and specifically decorated the plasma membrane of CHO cells stably transfected with the human V1b receptor. These new selective fluorescent peptides will allow the cellular localization of V1b or OT receptor isoforms in native tissues.

Vasopressin and vasopressin receptor antagonists in heart failure

Antidiuretic hormone, also known as arginine vasopressin, is a hormone with a multitude of physiologic activities including the control of urinary free water excretion. Antidiuretic hormone also plays a role in vasoconstriction and has 3 receptors that have been identified. Vasopressin analogs and antagonists have been extensively studied in animal models as well as in humans. Because heart failure is associated with a state of water retention, several vasopressin antagonists have been evaluated for their potential aquaretic effect. Diuretics remain the mainstay of treatment in acute and chronic volume overload but are not shown to improve survival. In fact, they are associated with numerous side effects including hypotension, electrolyte abnormalities, worsening renal function, and activation of renin-angiotensin-aldosternone system. Tolvaptan, conivaptan, and lixivaptan are some of the vasopressin antagonists that have been studied in heart failure. The results were initially encouraging with alleviation of symptoms and effective aquaresis without worsening of hyponatremia or renal function, but yet failed to show any effect on mortality in heart failure. With an increasing number of more selective orally active vasopressin antagonists, further studies are underway to establish the role of "Vaptans" in the treatment of heart failure and other disease states with volume overload and hyponatremia.

Vasopressin receptor expression in the placenta

The arginine vasopressin (AVP) type 1a receptor (V1a) is well known to mediate vasoconstriction. In pregnancy, blood flow in the placenta is crucial for sustaining normal growth and development of the fetus. This is the first AVP receptor study in the placenta and fetal membranes. The aim was to compare, quantitatively, the level of V1a gene expression with that of a known marker for vascularization, aquaporin 1 (AQP1). V1a and AQP1 gene expression did not correlate; placental V1a mRNA levels were significantly upregulated at 45 and 66+/-1 compared with 27, 100+/-4, and 140 days (term approximately 150 days). V1a mRNA levels were much lower in fetal membranes in which no significant difference across gestation was observed. In situ hybridization histochemistry localized V1a gene expression in the maternal component of the placenta similar to the receptor-binding studies using 125I-labeled [d(CH2)5, sarcosine7] vasopressin. No AVP gene expression was observed in the placenta and fetal membranes, which eliminates local AVP production. This increase in V1a expression at 45 and 66+/-1 days of gestation correlates with the period of maximal placental growth in the sheep and suggests that AVP and V1a receptors may play a hitherto unrecognized role in placental growth, differentiation, and/or function, particularly in the deleterious effects of heat stress, early in pregnancy, on fetal growth.

Immunohistochemical localization of the vasopressin V1b receptor in the rat brain and pituitary gland: anatomical support for its involvement in the central effects of vasopressin

Biological effects of vasopressin (VP) are mediated by four different receptors, two of which (the V1a and the oxytocin receptors) have been well characterized in the rodent brain, suggesting that these are the main receptors responsible for the central effects of VP. However, transcripts of the V1b VP receptor (V1bR) have been detected throughout the rat brain by RT-PCR and in situ hybridization, indicating that the V1bR adds to the population of central VP receptors. Because there are no specific ligands for the V1bR, the receptor protein itself has been difficult to visualize. In the present study, the distribution of the V1bR protein was investigated in the rat forebrain, midbrain, hindbrain, and cerebellum by immunohistochemistry using an antiserum raised against a synthetic fragment of the carboxylterminal of the rat V1bR protein. Immunohistochemistry revealed the presence of the V1bR in pituitary corticotrophs as expected. In naive, untreated rats, fiber networks containing V1bR-immunoreactivity were mainly concentrated in the hypothalamus, amygdala, cerebellum, and particularly in those areas with a leaky blood brain barrier or close to the circumventricular organs (medial habenula, subfornical organ, organum vasculosum laminae terminalis, median eminence, and nuclei lining to the third and fourth ventricles). A strikingly dense network was present in the external zone of the median eminence. Colchicine treatment was required to reveal the localization of V1bR-immunoreactive cell bodies. V1bR-containing cell bodies and associated protrusions were mainly located in the hippocampus, caudate putamen, cortex, thalamus, olfactory bulb, and cerebellum. These results demonstrate the widespread distribution of the V1bR protein in the rat brain over multiple, functionally distinct neuronal systems. These data suggest that the V1bR mediates different physiological functions of VP in the brain.

Binding properties of a selective tritiated vasopressin V2 receptor antagonist, [H]-SR 121463

BACKGROUND

[3H]-SR 121463 is the first radiolabeled selective nonpeptide vasopressin V2 receptor antagonist ligand that has been reported to date. In the present work, we studied the binding properties of [3H]-SR 121463 for renal V2 receptors from animal and human origins.

METHODS

Binding studies were performed with [3H]-SR 121463 in Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells transfected with the human V2 receptor and in various kidney preparations expressing the native V2 receptors (rat, rabbit, dog, pig, monkey, and human). Autoradiographies were performed in rat and human kidney sections.

RESULTS

[3H]-SR 121463 binding to CHO cells stably transfected with the cloned human renal V2 receptor was specific, highly stable, time dependent, saturable, and reversible. A single population of high-affinity binding sites was identified (Kd = 0.94 +/- 0.34 nmol/L, Bmax = 9876 +/- 317 fmol/mg protein). Of note, [3H]-SR 121463 revealed a higher number (about 40%) of V2 sites than [3H]-AVP in the same preparation. Displacement of [3H]-SR 121463 binding by reference peptide and nonpeptide vasopressin/oxytocin compounds exhibited a typical AVP V2 profile. [3H]-SR 121463 also displayed a high affinity for native V2 receptors in several kidney preparations from rat, pig, dog, rabbit, bovine, monkey, and human. The autoradiographic experiments using rat and human kidney sections showed intense labeling in the medullopapillary region and lower intensity in the cortex, consistent with a main localization of V2 receptors on collecting tubules.

CONCLUSION

[3H]-SR 121463 is a useful ligand for the specific labeling of animal and human V2 receptors and could be a suitable probe for the search and in situ localization of V2 sites.

In vivo and in vitro characterisation of a nonpeptide vasopressin V(1A) and V(2) receptor antagonist (YM087) in the rat

This paper reports the in vitro and in vivo characterisation of a nonpeptide, orally active, vasopressin V(1A) and V(2) receptor antagonist, YM087 (methyl-1,4,5,6-tetrahydroimidazo[4, 5-d][1]benzoazepine-6-carbonyl)-2-phenylbenzanilide monohydrochloride) in the rat. YM087 dose dependently displaced the vasopressin V(1A) receptor antagonist radioligand, 125I-labelled [d(CH(2))(5),sarcosine(7)]vasopressin at vasopressin V(1A) receptors in liver and kidney medulla membranes and caused a concentration dependent displacement of the vasopressin V(2) receptor antagonist radioligand [3H]desGly-NH(2)(9)[d(CH(2))(5), D-Ile(2), Ile(4)]vasopressin at vasopressin V(2) receptors in kidney medulla membranes. In vitro binding kinetic studies showed YM087 acted as a competitive antagonist at liver V(1A) and kidney V(1A) and V(2) vasopressin receptors. Oral administration of YM087 (0.1-3 mg/kg) dose dependently inhibited vasopressin binding to liver V(1A) and kidney V(1A) and V(2) vasopressin receptors over 24 h. Oral YM087 (1-3 mg/kg/day) for 7 days in normotensive rats caused a dose dependent aquaresis with no effect on systolic blood pressure. These results show that YM087 is an orally effective vasopressin V(1A) and V(2) receptor antagonist that may be useful in the treatment of conditions characterised by vasoconstriction and fluid retention such as congestive heart failure.

Vasopressin binding sites in the central nervous system: distribution and regulation

High affinity binding sites for vasopressin (VP) are widely distributed within the rat brain and spinal cord. Since their presence is associated with neuronal sensitivity to VP application, their anatomical distribution maps structures which could be activated by endogenous VP. Interestingly, marked species-related differences of the VP receptor distribution have been revealed. Some evidence has also been provided that mechanisms of receptor regulation may vary among species. In the rat, the expression of VP binding sites in some motor nuclei shows remarkable plasticity, in particular up-regulation after axotomy. These data suggest that VP may, in addition to affecting motoneuronal excitability, act as a trophic factor onto motoneurones.

Properties of a new radioiodinated antagonist for human vasopressin V2 and V1a receptors

A vasopressin receptor antagonist, [1-(beta-mercapto-beta,beta-pentamethylenepropionic acid), 2-o-ethyl-D-tyrosine, 4-valine, 9-tyrosylamide] arginine vasopressin (d(CH2)5[o-ethyl-D-Tyr2,Val4,Tyr-NH9(2)]AVP), has been prepared. This antagonist is a potent antiantidiuretic, antivasopressor and antioxytocic peptide with pA2 values of 7.69-7.94 and affinities of 1.12-11.0 nM. When radioiodinated at the phenyl moiety of the tyrosylamide residue at position 9, this peptide was demonstrated to bind to vasopressin V2 and V1a receptors with a dissociation constant of 0.22-0.75 nM. This ligand is a good tool for further studies on human vasopressin V2 receptor localization and characterization, when used in combination with a selective vasopressin V1a ligand.

Autoradiographic localization of vasopressin V1a receptors in the rat kidney using [3H]-SR 49059

Localization and characterization of binding sites of the selective non-peptide vasopressin receptor V1a ligand, [3H]-SR 49059, were investigated in the adult rat kidney by quantitative autoradiography using a fast-detecting radioluminographic phosphor-imaging plate system. [3H]-SR 49059, like the other V1a ligands used, showed a total absence of binding in the papilla, discrete and sparse labeling in the cortex and maximal binding in the outer part of the inner medulla. This labeling seemed to be mainly associated with medullary interstitial cells and vascular elements of the vasa recta. Conversely, [3H]-AVP intensely labeled the V2-enriched medulla-papillary portion of the kidney and, to a lesser extent, the cortical structures. [3H]-SR 49059 binding, quantified in the outer part of the inner medulla in rat kidney sections, was time-dependent, reversible, saturable and a single class of high affinity binding sites (Kd = 1.48 +/- 0.16 nM) was identified. The relative potencies of the reference peptide and non-peptide compounds to inhibit [3H]-SR 49059 binding confirm the V1a nature of the site and the stereospecificity of this binding. Thus, [3H]-SR 49059 allows the mapping and characterization of the V1a receptor population present in the rat kidney. The stability and the highly selective affinity of this non-peptide ligand for rat and human V1a receptors make it a suitable probe for the localization of V1a receptors in organs expressing heterogeneous populations of receptors.

Attenuation of genetic hypertension after short-term vasopressin V1A receptor antagonism

Abnormalities of the vasopressin system are found in genetic hypertension. This study compares the delayed effects of a brief period of vasopressin V1A receptor blockade and angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibition in young female and male spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) on the development of hypertension in adult life. In a separate study, the role of vasopressin in the maintenance of blood pressure in adult SHR was assessed. Young SHR received either the nonpeptide vasopressin V1A receptor antagonist OPC-21268, the angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor ramipril, or vehicle from 6 to 10 weeks of age. During the treatment period, OPC-21268 and ramipril reduced systolic blood pressure compared with control SHR (P < .001). Blood pressure in male SHR 7 weeks after treatment withdrawal was 178 +/- 1 mm Hg in ramipril-treated, 184 +/- 1 mm Hg in OPC-21268-treated, and 200 +/- 2 mm Hg in control SHR (P < .001). Similar results were seen in female SHR, although both OPC-21268 and ramipril were less effective antihypertensive agents in female compared with male SHR. The sustained attenuation in blood pressure was not associated with significant cardiovascular structural changes (left ventricular-to-body weight ratio, renal weight-to-body weight ratio, mesenteric resistance artery media-to-lumen ratio). Results of vasopressin V1A receptor binding kinetics and plasma renin or aldosterone concentrations did not suggest a lasting effect of OPC-21268 on the vasopressin system or of ramipril on the renin-angiotensin system following treatment withdrawal.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Molecular neurobiology and pharmacology of the vasopressin/oxytocin receptor family

1. VP and OT mediate their wealth of effects via 4 receptor subtypes V1a, V1b, V2, and OT receptors. 2. We here review recent insights in the pharmacological properties, structure activity relationships, species differences in ligand specificity, expression patterns, and signal transduction of VP/OT receptor. 3. Furthermore, the existence of additional VP/OT receptor subtypes is discussed.

Effects of protease inhibitors on vasopressin transport across rat alveolar epithelial cell monolayers

The transepithelial transport of arginine vasopressin (AVP) across cultured rat alveolar epithelial cell monolayers was studied. At 0.1 nM donor [125I]AVP, the radiolabel flux measured in the apical-to-basolateral (AB) direction was about 10 times greater than that in the reverse (BA) direction. HPLC analyses of the basolateral receiver fluid collected at the end of these flux measurements showed that about 97% of the total [125I]label represented subspecies of AVP, whereas the apical receiver fluid contained largely intact AVP (approximately 85% of total [125I]label). Both donor fluids contained virtually no degradation products of AVP (> 99%). In the presence of an excess 0.1 mM unlabeled AVP in the apical donor fluid, the Papp for radiolabeled AVP in the AB direction was decreased by approximately 68%, while the fraction of intact AVP in the basolateral receiver fluid was increased six-fold as compared to that observed at 0.1 nM [125I]AVP alone. Under this condition, the flux of intact AVP was approximately the same in both directions. When the concentration of apical camostat mesylate, an aminopeptidase inhibitor, was varied from 0 to 2 mM, the radiolabeled flux in the AB direction (with 0.1 nM [125I]AVP in the donor fluid) was significantly decreased in a dose-dependent manner, yielding commensurably elevated concentrations of intact AVP in the basolateral receiver fluid. In contrast, leupeptin (0.5 mM), a serine protease inhibitor, was without effect. These data, taken together, suggest that apically-presented AVP undergoes proteolysis (most likely by peptidases localized at apical cell membranes of alveolar epithelium.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Blood pressure-lowering effect of an orally active vasopressin V1 receptor antagonist in mineralocorticoid hypertension in the rat

We studied the contribution of vasopressin to the maintenance of high blood pressure in deoxycorticosterone acetate (DOCA)-salt hypertension in the rat using the nonpeptide orally effective vasopressin V1 receptor antagonist OPC-21268. Binding kinetic studies demonstrated that oral OPC-21268 (30 mg/kg) acted as a competitive antagonist at the vasopressin V1 receptor in DOCA-salt and salt control rats. Basal mean intra-arterial blood pressure was 140 +/- 4 mm Hg (n = 12) in DOCA-salt rats compared with 111 +/- 2 mm Hg in salt control rats (n = 18). Acute oral OPC-21268 (30 mg/kg) significantly (P < .01) reduced mean intra-arterial pressure in DOCA-salt hypertension, with an average maximal decrease of 24 +/- 3 mm Hg occurring at 2.5 +/- 0.7 hours after dosing. Systolic blood pressure (tail-cuff) in DOCA-salt rats was 178 +/- 2 mm Hg. Chronic oral OPC-21268 (30 mg/kg) twice daily for 7 days significantly (P < .01) reduced systolic blood pressure in DOCA-salt hypertension, with an average maximal decrease of 27 +/- 5 mm Hg. The antihypertensive effect was reversed 5 days after treatment with OPC-21268 was stopped. In water control rats basal systolic pressure (120 +/- 1 mm Hg, n = 20) was unchanged by chronic oral OPC-21268 (30 mg/kg twice daily for 7 days), and this was confirmed by direct measurement of mean intra-arterial pressure. After chronic oral OPC-21268 (30 mg/kg twice daily for 7 days) hepatic V1 receptor binding was significantly reduced for up to 10 hours (P < .05).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Epidermal growth factor antagonizes vasopressin in vivo and in vitro

Since EGF causes diuresis through a renal action and may antagonize the hydroosmotic effect of AVP in vitro we investigated the antagonistic action of EGF with AVP in vivo and the mechanism of the antagonism in vitro. Conscious ewes received i.m. injections of a selective AVP V2-receptor agonist (1-desamino, D-Arg8 vasopressin acetate, DDAVP) every 12 hours for days 5 to 16. All ewes received an i.v. isotonic saline infusion (100 ml/day) for days 1 to 8 and days 13 to 16, and i.v. EGF in 100 ml saline/day at doses of 0 (N = 8) or 10 (N = 8) micrograms/hr for days 9 to 12. DDAVP reduced both urine volume and water intake, and increased urine osmolality. In contrast, simultaneous infusion of EGF reversed the DDAVP-induced responses, resulting in a transient negative fluid balance, kaliuresis and a transient natriuresis (all P < 0.05). When EGF treatment ceased, the effects of DDAVP treatment alone gradually became apparent. From the in vitro studies, the AVP-related peptides displaced specific AVP V1- and V2-receptor antagonist radioligands from rat renal inner medullary membranes, whereas EGF had no effect. However, EGF antagonized AVP V2-stimulated cAMP production in a dose-dependent way (IC50 = 2 x 10(-7) M). Therefore, the diuretic effect of EGF is not via direct antagonism of the antidiuretic AVP V2-receptor but seems mediated by inhibition of the antidiuretic AVP V2-receptor second messenger system.

Interaction between epidermal growth factor and arginine vasopressin in renal medullary membranes

1. Epidermal growth factor is a potent mitogen that causes natriuresis, diuresis and inhibition of arginine vasopressin-induced water reabsorption. 2. The aim of this study was to determine any interaction between epidermal growth factor and the V1 (vascular) and/or V2 (antidiuretic) arginine vasopressin receptor subtypes. 3. Radioligand binding displacement assays demonstrated that although arginine vasopressin related peptides displaced both radioligands from renal medullary membranes at low concentrations epidermal growth factor displaced neither. 4. Arginine vasopressin V2 receptor second messenger cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) production was inhibited by epidermal growth factor (IC50 2 x 10(-7) mol/L) as was sodium fluoride cAMP production but only at much higher concentrations. 5. Therefore the diuretic effect of epidermal growth factor is not via direct antagonism of arginine vasopressin receptors but seems mediated via inhibition of the V2 second messenger system.

Vasopressin and a nonpeptide antidiuretic hormone receptor antagonist (OPC-31260)

The development of nonpeptide orally active AVP analogues has provided a new tool with which to assess the physiological and pathophysiological role of vasopressin (AVP). We have previously characterised the nonpeptide vasopressin V1 receptor antagonist OPC-21268, and now report the in vitro characterisation of the nonpeptide V2 receptor antagonist OPC-31260 in the rat. OPC-31260 caused a concentration-dependent displacement of the selective AVP V2 receptor antagonist radioligand, [3H]desGly-NH2(9)[d(CH2)5, D-Ile2,Ile4]AVP from V2 receptors in rat kidney medulla membranes. The concentration of OPC-31260 that displaced 50% of specific AVP binding (IC50) was 20 +/- 2 nmol/l for renal V2 receptors. OPC-31260 also caused a concentration-dependent displacement of the selective AVP V1 receptor antagonist radioligand, [125I]-[d(CH2)5,sarcosine7]AVP from V1 receptors in both rat liver and kidney medulla membranes. The IC50 was 500 +/- 30 nmol/l for both renal and liver V1 receptors. After oral administration to rats, OPC-31260 was an effective inhibitor of AVP at renal V2 and liver V1 receptors in a time-dependent manner. In vitro binding kinetic studies showed that OPC-31260 was a competitive antagonist at both the renal V2 receptor and the hepatic V1 receptor. OPC-31260 is a nonpeptide, orally effective competitive inhibitor of AVP with a V2:V1 receptor selectivity ratio of 25:1 indicating relative V2 receptor selectivity.

Vasopressin V1 and V2 receptors in diabetes mellitus

Diabetes mellitus causes hypertonicity, increased plasma arginine vasopressin (AVP), polydipsia, and polyuria. Downregulation of AVP V2 receptors may contribute to the polyuria through diminished V2 receptor-mediated free water retention. After 2 wk of streptozotocin-induced diabetes mellitus, the diabetic rats had raised plasma glucose, AVP, and osmolality levels (P < 0.001) compared with nondiabetic controls (Sham). Insulin treatment (4 U long-acting insulin sc, daily) partially lowered these values (P < 0.01). There was a reduction in the number of renal and hepatic V1 receptors in the diabetic and diabetic+insulin animals compared with the sham animals (P < 0.05). The receptor affinity remained unchanged. In parallel, there was a reduction in maximum AVP-activated total inositol phosphate production in the liver and kidney of the diabetic and diabetic+insulin animals compared with the sham animals (P < 0.05). The density and affinity of renal V2 receptors and AVP-stimulated adenosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate production in the diabetic and diabetic+insulin animals were unchanged compared with the sham. These results demonstrate differential regulation of AVP receptors and suggest that downregulation of renal V2 receptors does not contribute to the polyuria of diabetes. In contrast, downregulation of V1 receptors might contribute to diminished V1 receptor-mediated biological responses to AVP seen in diabetes mellitus.

Localization and characterization of vasopressin binding sites in the rat brain using an iodinated linear AVP antagonist

The binding characteristics and central distribution of 125I-Linear AVP antagonist, a new ligand for vasopressin binding sites, are described in the following studies. Saturation studies performed on rat brain septal membranes demonstrated that 125I-Linear AVP antagonist binds to a single class of sites with high affinity (55 pM) and limited capacity (88 fmol/mg protein). In autoradiographic studies, 125I-Linear AVP antagonist labeled brain areas known to contain vasopressin receptors without binding to neurophysins. 125I-Linear AVP antagonist also labeled sites in cortex, hypothalamus, ventral tegmental area and substantia nigra. In competition studies, 125I-Linear AVP antagonist binding was most readily blocked by AVP and a selective V1a agonist. Oxytocin and a selective V2 ligand were effective only in micromolar concentrations. A selective oxytocin agonist was virtually ineffective in blocking 125I-Linear AVP antagonist binding. In regions that contain a high density of oxytocin binding sites, however, oxytocin-displaceable binding was observed. In agreement with studies on peripheral tissues, the binding profile generated from these studies indicates that 125I-Linear AVP antagonist binds to vasopressin receptors of the V1a subtype. These results suggest that 125I-Linear AVP antagonist is a valuable ligand for the study of central AVP receptors.

Monoclonal antibodies to arginine vasopressin receptor bind to liver, kidney and pituitary membranes

1. A vasopressin binding protein purified from rat liver membranes was used to immunize Balb/c mice and, subsequently, for the screening of hybrids raised in two different cell fusions. 2. Three hybrids were obtained which secreted monoclonal antibodies (MoAb) that bound to the purified solubilized receptor as detected by an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay technique. All three MoAb immunoprecipitated the purified receptor. 3. In addition, the MoAb bound in a concentration-dependent manner to crude liver, kidney and anterior pituitary membranes, tissues known to contain arginine vasopressin (AVP) receptors but not to cardiac ventricle membranes which lack AVP receptors. 4. However, the binding of [125I]-[d(CH2)5,Sar7]AVP (a specific radiolabelled V1 antagonist) to the membrane-bound receptor was not inhibited by these antibodies. 5. These results suggest that MoAb recognize epitopes which are common to rat liver, kidney and anterior pituitary membranes but are not at the ligand binding site.

Effects of an orally active vasopressin V1 receptor antagonist

1. This paper reports on the in vitro and in vivo characteristics of a non-peptide vasopressin V1 receptor antagonist 1-(1-[4-(3-acetylaminopropoxy)benzoyl]-4-piperidyl)-3,4-dihydro-2( 1H)- quinolinone (OPC-21268). 2. OPC-21268 caused a concentration-dependent displacement of the selective V1 receptor antagonist radioligand, [125I]-[d(CH2)5, sarcosine7]AVP from vasopressin V1 receptors in rat liver and kidney membranes, inhibitory concentration of 50% (IC50) 4 x 10(-8), 0.3 mol/L liver and 1.5 x 10(-8), 0.2 mol/L kidney. OPC-21268 had little effect on the selective V2 antagonist radioligand [3H]desGly-NH2(9)-d(CH2)5[D-Ileu2, Ileu4]AVP binding to V2 receptors in renal membranes (IC50 > 10(-4) mol/L). 3. After oral administration to rats, OPC-21268 was an effective V1 antagonist to both liver and kidney V1 receptors, in a dose-dependent manner. 4. These studies confirm that OPC-21268 is a potent non-peptide, orally effective V1 vasopressin receptor antagonist.

Regulation of vasopressin receptors in deoxycorticosterone acetate-salt hypertension

Since arginine vasopressin may play a role in mineralocorticoid hypertension, we examined the effects of deoxycorticosterone acetate (DOCA)-salt on vasopressin V1 and V2 receptor binding and their second messengers, inositol phosphate and adenylate cyclase, respectively, in liver and kidney to determine whether altered vasopressin receptor binding is pathogenetic in mineralocorticoid hypertension. The mean arterial blood pressure of mineralocorticoid (DOCA-salt)-treated rats (163 +/- 1 mm Hg) was increased compared with control salt-treated rats (salt) (122 +/- 1 mm Hg) and water-treated rats (120 +/- 1 mm Hg; p less than 0.001). Mineralocorticoid treatment also increased plasma sodium, osmolality, and vasopressin concentration (p less than 0.001). In the hypertensive animals, there was a reduction in hepatic V1 (DOCA-salt, 91 +/- 12; salt, 132 +/- 13; and water, 145 +/- 13 fmol/mg protein; p less than 0.05) and renal V2 receptor binding density (DOCA-salt, 53 +/- 5; salt, 93 +/- 9; and water, 95 +/- 9 fmol/mg protein; p less than 0.01), although receptor affinities remained unaltered. In contrast, the density of renal V1 receptors was increased by mineralocorticoid treatment (DOCA-salt, 24 +/- 2; salt, 16 +/- 2; water, 18 +/- 1 fmol/mg protein; p less than 0.05), although the affinity was unchanged. Downregulation of V2 receptors was associated with a decrease in maximum cyclic adenosine monophosphate levels (DOCA-salt, 19 +/- 4; salt, 49 +/- 6; water, 53 +/- 9 pmol.mg protein-1.10 min-1; p less than 0.05), whereas changes in V1 receptor levels were not associated with changes in maximum inositol phosphate levels.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Presence of functional vasopressin V1 receptors in rat vagal afferent neurones

The nucleus of the solitary tract (NTS) is one of the brain regions by which arginine vasopressin (AVP) influences blood pressure. This series of experiments in adult male rats was designed to determine whether the AVP binding sites which have been demonstrated in the NTS by in vitro autoradiography might be presynaptic on vagal afferents from the nodose ganglion; whether the AVP binding sites on vagal afferent neurones are functional receptors; and whether vagal transport of AVP receptors to other organs also occurs. High affinity binding sites (using the selective V1 antagonist radioligand [125I][d(CH2)5,Sar7]AVP and in vitro autoradiography) with characteristics of V1 receptors in the medial subnucleus of the NTS were reduced by 40% ipsilateral to nodose ganglionectomy. The nodose ganglion itself also contained high affinity V1 AVP binding sites that localised over cell bodies of vagal sensory neurones. That these binding sites were functional receptors was apparent when low concentrations of AVP but not oxytocin were found to depolarize the isolated nodose ganglion utilizing the 'silicone grease gap' technique. Furthermore, the actions of AVP were antagonised by low concentrations of a selective V1 receptor antagonist. However, there was no accumulation of AVP binding sites adjacent to either the proximal or distal vagal ligations suggesting that peripheral vagal transport of AVP receptors may not occur. Therefore these results are consistent with functional AVP V1 receptors occurring in the nodose ganglion. These receptors may occur on central terminals of vagal sensory neurones in the medial subnucleus of the NTS, but there was no evidence for peripheral transport of AVP V1 receptors.

Novel approach to the design of synthetic radioiodinated linear V1A receptor antagonists of vasopressin

We report the solid phase synthesis of six analogs of the potent and selective linear AVP vasopressor (V1a receptor) antagonist: Phaa1-D-Tyr(Et)2-Phe3-Gln4-Asn5-Lys6-Pro7-Arg-NH(8)2(A) (where Phaa = phenylacetyl) in which the Phaa1 residue is replaced by hydroxyphenylacetyl (HO-Phaa), hydroxyphenylpropionyl (HO-Phpa) and phenylpropionyl (Phpa) and the D-Tyr(Et)2 and Lys6 residues by D-Tyr(Me)2 and Arg6 substituents. The phenolic-containing peptides were synthesized to test the feasibility of using this approach for the design of high affinity selective ligands for AVP V1a receptors. The following analogs of A were synthesized: 11 [(HO)Phaa1]; 2. [(HO)Phaa1,D-Tyr(Me)2]; 3. [(HO)Phaa1,D-Tyr(Me)2, Arg6]; 4. [(HO)Phaa1,Arg6]; 5. [Phpa1]; 6. [(HO)Phpa1]. All six peptides were examined for agonistic and antagonistic potencies in vasopressor (V1a-receptor) and antidiuretic (V2-receptor) and in vitro oxytocic assays in rats. The affinities of the phenolic-containing peptides for hepatic V1a and uterine receptors were also determined. The phenolic-containing peptides all exhibit potent V1a antagonism. Their anti-V1a pA2 values range from 8.23 to 8.63 (the anti-V1a pA2 value of A = 8.69). Their inhibition constants (Ki in nM) range 0.4 to 1.0. They are weak antidiuretic agonists with activities ranging from 0.022 U/mg to 0.13 U/mg (A = 0.033 U/mg). They all exhibit OT antagonism in vitro. Their anti-OT pA2 values range from 7.28 to 7.71 (A = 7.62). All five phenolic compounds were iodinated using iodine chloride and tested in the same in vivo and in vitro assay system.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Isolation and characterization of the rat liver AVP receptor using [125I][d(CH2)5'sarcosine7]AVP

1. A vasopressin (AVP) binding protein was purified from rat liver membranes by an improved method using [125I][d(CH2)5'Sarcosine7]AVP, a selective V1 AVP radioligand and a combination of CHAPS solubilization, gel filtration, lectin affinity and FPLC ion exchange chromatography. 2. The purified protein exhibited a maximum binding activity of 2480 pmol/mg protein with a KD of 4.5 nmol/L, which corresponds to a purification of approximately 26,700-fold. The molecular weight of this protein was 70,000 Da. 3. The binding of [125I][d(CH2)5'Sarcosine7]AVP to the solubilized membranes was dependent on the protein concentration, and was inhibited by the unlabelled peptides [d(CH2)5'Sarcosine7]AVP, AVP, and to a lesser degree by peptides with high V2 receptor affinity, such as 1-desamino-D-AVP and [d(CH2)5'D-Ileu2-Ileu4]AVP. 4. In addition, an AVP anti-idiotypic monoclonal antibody bound to both the partially purified and purified lectin affinity AVP binding protein in a concentration-dependent manner. These results indicate that the purified protein displays similar characteristics to the liver membrane-bound AVP V1 receptor.

[3H]desGly-NH2(9)-d(CH2)5[D-Ileu2,Ileu4]AVP: an AVP V2 receptor antagonist radioligand

Binding characteristics of the selective V2 antagonist radioligand [3H]desGly-NH2(9)-d(CH2)5[D-Ileu2,Ileu4]AVP to rat kidney were determined. Binding was specific, saturable and reversible. The peptide bound to a single class of high-affinity binding sites with Bmax 69.4 +/- 6.8 fmol/mg protein and KD 2.8 +/- 0.3 nM. AVP and other related peptides displaced [3H]desGly-NH2(9)-d(CH2)5[D-Ileu2,Ileu4]AVP binding. The order of potency of inhibition was desamino-D-AVP greater than AVP greater than d(CH2)5[D-Ileu2,Ileu4]AVP greater than oxytocin greater than d(CH2)5[Tyr(Me)2]AVP greater than d(CH2)5[sarcosine7]AVP, which is typical of a selective V2 radioligand. Autoradiographic localization of [3H]desGly-NH2(9)-d(CH2)5[D-Ileu2,Ileu4]AVP binding sites in kidney showed dense binding in the inner and outer medulla with less binding in the cortex, which is consistent with known renal V2 receptor distribution.

Characterization of monoclonal antibodies to a rat liver vasopressin receptor

1. Balb/c mice were immunized against a vasopressin binding protein purified from rat liver. The hybrids produced from two cell fusions were screened against this receptor. Three hybrids were selected, cloned and expanded in serum-free media. The monoclonal antibodies (MoAb) secreted by these three hybrids were of the subclass IgM and were able to immunoprecipitate [125I]-labelled purified receptor. 2. All three MoAb bound to the purified solubilized receptor, crude liver and kidney membranes in a concentration-dependent manner. However, the binding of MoAb to the membranes did not inhibit the binding of [125I]-[d(CH2)5,Sar7]AVP, a selective V1 receptor radioligand, to the liver membrane-bound receptor. 3. These results suggest that the three MoAb recognize epitopes on the V1 receptor which are not denatured by solubilization, but are common to both rat liver and kidney membranes.

A radioiodinated linear vasopressin antagonist: a ligand with high affinity and specificity for V1a receptors

A linear vasopressin antagonist, Phaa-D-Tyr(Me)-Phe-Gln-Asn-Arg-Pro-Arg-Tyr-NH2 (Linear AVP Antag) (Phaa = Phenylacetyl), was monoiodinated at the phenyl moiety of the tyrosylamide residue at position 9. This antagonist appeared to be a highly potent anti-vasopressor peptide with a pA2 value in vivo of 8.94. It was demonstrated to bind to rat liver membrane preparations with a very high affinity (Kd = 0.06 nM). The affinity for the rat uterus oxytocin receptor was lower (Ki = 2.1 nM), and affinities for the rat kidney- and adenohypophysis-vasopressin receptors were much lower (Ki = 47 nM and 92 nM, respectively), resulting in a highly specific vasopressin V1a receptor ligand. Autoradiographical studies using rat brain slices showed that this ligand is a good tool for studies on vasopressin receptor localization and characterization.

Steroid modulation of oxytocin/vasopressin receptors in the uterus

Oxytocin (OT) and V1 vasopressin (VP) receptors are present simultaneously in several tissues, including the uterus. In myometrium these receptors mediate contractility, while in endometrium they mediate the release of other uterotonic substances as endothelin (ET). In rabbit myometrium, estrogens increase, while progesterone blunts neurohypophysial hormone receptors. However, the action of sex steroids on OT and V1 VP receptors differs in terms of the ED50 and maximal effect. Therefore, at parturition, only OT receptors show a dramatic rise, while V1 VP receptors do not change, suggesting a major role for OT in labor. ET is a potent stimulator of uterine activity acting through specific receptors present on myometrial cells. These receptors as well as the endometrial localization of ET are modulated by sex steroids, indicating that ET might represent a paracrine regulator of uterine activity. In humans, OT but not V1 VP receptors increase as pregnancy progresses, confirming the primary relevance of OT in timing delivery.

Vasopressin antisense peptide interactions with the V1 receptor

The molecular recognition hypothesis, that peptide ligands and their receptor binding sites are encoded by complementary nucleotide sequences, was tested for arginine vasopressin (AVP) and its V1 receptor. Binding of [125I] [d(CH2)5,Sar7]AVP (a selective V1 vasopressin antagonist radioligand) or [3H]AVP to rat liver plasma membranes was inhibited by peptides known to bind to V1 receptors but not by the AVP complementary peptide (Ser-Ser-Trp-Ala-Val-Leu-Glu-Val-Ala) (PVA). Rabbit anti-PVA antibodies were nonimmunoreactive with any protein in rat liver membranes or in a partially purified preparation from rat liver containing reconstitutable vasopressin binding activity. Furthermore, there was no suppression of the AVP pressor effect by PVA in vivo using a rat blood pressure bioassay. These findings do not support the hypothesis that the V1 receptor binding site is encoded by the antisense DNA strand to AVP.

Reduced V1 vasopressin binding in the rat nucleus solitarii after nodose ganglionectomy

1. Anaesthetized male Sprague-Dawley rats underwent unilateral nodose ganglionectomy or sham operation. 2. One week later hindbrain V1 vasopressin binding site density was assessed by in vitro autoradiography with the selective V1 antagonist radioligand [125I] [d(CH2)5, Sar7]AVP. 3. Specific binding was observed in the nodose ganglion, nucleus tractus solitarius (NTS), area postrema, and inferior olive. Only binding in the medial subnucleus of the NTS was reduced by ipsilateral nodose ganglionectomy. 4. These findings are consistent with V1 vasopressin receptors occurring presynaptically on vagal primary viscerosensory afferent fibres. 5. Such receptors may be involved in the effect of AVP on blood pressure and/or the baroreflex.

Experimental uses of neurohypophysial hormone analogs

Structural analogs of neurohypophysial peptides with specific agonistic and antagonistic activities are valuable tools for research on these hormones and their receptors. They may also provide new or improved therapeutic agents.