Effects of three iron material treatments on hydrogen sulfide release from anoxic sediments

In eutrophic coastal regions, hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) is a harmful material released from sediments under anoxic conditions. To suppress its release, we conducted laboratory experiments and assessed the impacts of treatment with three iron materials (Fe, Fe₂O₃, and FeOOH), focusing on the area-specific H₂S release rate. These materials qualitatively exhibited a substantial suppression of H₂S release; however, smaller treatment levels (<150 mmol m^-2) were ineffective. FeOOH exhibited the best performance, followed by Fe₂O₃, and Fe. These differences were likely caused by variations in the oxidation or reduction potential of the materials and their reaction rates with H₂S. A simplified model suggested that the required minimum Fe²⁺ concentration was determined using the H₂S diffusivity, reaction rate constant, and treatment penetration depth. As the former two are physical constants, the latter must control the H₂S release rate. Iron materials were experimentally confirmed to persist for over three weeks, and the effective treatment level was theoretically estimated as being capable of suppressing H₂S release for more than a year. Our results will contribute to coastal environmental management and particularly benefit port authorities who manage enclosed and eutrophicated harbors and navigation channels where slag application should be avoided.

Specific Roles of NMDA Receptor Subunits in Mental Disorders

N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor plays important roles in learning and memory. NMDA receptors are a tetramer that consists of two glycine-binding subunits GluN1, two glutamate-binding subunits (i.e., GluN2A, GluN2B, GluN2C, and GluN2D), a combination of a GluN2 subunit and glycine-binding GluN3 subunit (i.e., GluN3A or GluN3B), or two GluN3 subunits. Recent studies revealed that the specific expression and distribution of each subunit are deeply involved in neural excitability, plasticity, and synaptic deficits. The present article summarizes reports on the dysfunction of NMDA receptors and responsible subunits in various neurological and psychiatric disorders, including schizophrenia, autoimmune-induced glutamatergic receptor dysfunction, mood disorders, and autism. A key role for the GluN2D subunit in NMDA receptor antagonist-induced psychosis has been recently revealed.

Improvement of learning and increase in dopamine level in the frontal cortex by methylphenidate in mice lacking dopamine transporter

The symptoms of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are characterized by inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity. It is a common childhood neurodevelopmental disorder that often persists into adulthood. Improvements in ADHD symptoms using psychostimulants have been recognized as a paradoxical calming effect. The psychostimulant methylphenidate (MPH) is currently used as the first-line medication for the management of ADHD. Recent studies have drawn attention to altered dopamine-mediated neurotransmission in ADHD, particularly reuptake by the dopamine transporter (DAT). This hypothesis is supported by the observation that DAT knockout mice exhibit marked hyperactivity that is responsive to acute MPH treatment. However, other behaviors relevant to ADHD have not been fully clarified. In the present study, we observed learning impairment in shuttle-box avoidance behavior together with hyperactivity in a novel environment in DAT knockout mice. Methylphenidate normalized these behaviors and enhanced escape activity in the tail suspension test. Interestingly, the effective dose of MPH increased extracellular dopamine in the prefrontal cortex but not striatum, suggesting an important role for changes in prefrontal dopamine in ADHD. Research that uses rodent models such as DAT knockout mice may be useful for elucidating the pathophysiology of ADHD.

The Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor Paroxetine, but not Fluvoxamine, Decreases Methamphetamine Conditioned Place Preference in Mice

Monoamine transporters are the main targets of methamphetamine (METH). Recently, we showed that fluoxetine, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), decreased METH conditioned place preference (CPP), suggesting that serotonin transporter (SERT) inhibition reduces the rewarding effects of METH. To further test this hypothesis, in the present study we investigated the effects of additional SSRIs, paroxetine and fluvoxamine, on METH CPP in C57BL/6J mice. In the CPP test, pretreatment with 20 mg/kg paroxetine abolished the CPP for METH, whereas pretreatment with 100 mg/kg fluvoxamine prior to administration of METH failed to inhibit METH CPP. These results suggest that paroxetine, a medication widely used to treat depression, may be a useful tool for treating METH dependence. Further, these data suggest that molecules other than the SERT [such as G protein-activated inwardly rectifying K+ (GIRK) channels] whose activities are modulated by paroxetine and fluoxetine, but not by fluvoxamine, are involved in reducing METH CPP by paroxetine and fluoxetine.

Effects of MDMA on Extracellular Dopamine and Serotonin Levels in Mice Lacking Dopamine and/or Serotonin Transporters

3,4-Methylendioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) has both stimulatory and hallucinogenic properties which make its psychoactive effects unique and different from those of typical psychostimulant and hallucinogenic agents. The present study investigated the effects of MDMA on extracellular dopamine (DA_ex) and serotonin (5-HT_ex) levels in the striatum and prefrontal cortex (PFC) using in vivo microdialysis techniques in mice lacking DA transporters (DAT) and/or 5-HT transporters (SERT). subcutaneous injection of MDMA (3, 10 mg/kg) significantly increased striatal DA_ex in wild-type mice, SERT knockout mice, and DAT knockout mice, but not in DAT/SERT double-knockout mice. The MDMA-induced increase in striatal DA_ex in SERT knockout mice was significantly less than in wildtype mice. In the PFC, MDMA dose-dependently increased DA_ex levels in wildtype, DAT knockout, SERT knockout and DAT/SERT double-knockout mice to a similar extent. In contrast, MDMA markedly increased 5-HT_ex in wildtype and DAT knockout mice and slightly increased 5-HT_ex in SERT-KO and DAT/SERT double-knockout mice. The results confirm that MDMA acts at both DAT and SERT and increases DA_ex and 5-HT_ex.

MOP Reduction During Long-Term Methamphetamine Withdrawal was Restored by Chronic Post-Treatment with Fluoxetine

Previously, we found fluoxetine reduces methamphetamine preference in mice. However, effects of fluoxetine on developed methamphetamine preference and on methamphetamine induced gene expression changes have been largely unknown. The present study investigates effects of post-treatment with fluoxetine on methamphetamine dependence and on gene expressions after long-term withdrawal in mice. First, we examined whether chronic post-treatment with fluoxetine attenuated methamphetamine-conditioned place preference. Next, we examined the changes in gene expression levels after long-term withdrawal (with saline or fluoxetine treatment) following chronic methamphetamine treatment. Using mRNA from the pooled frontal cortices of 10 mice per group, gene expression analyses were performed using a custom-developed cDNA array and a real-time quantitative reverse transcription-PCR. Chronic post-treatments with fluoxetine abolished the conditioned place preference developed by methamphetamine administrations. Even after long-term withdrawal from repeated methamphetamine administration, µ-opioid receptor (MOP) gene expression was significantly reduced in the frontal cortex. The reduced MOP gene expression in the frontal cortex was restored by chronic administration with fluoxetine. These changes were confirmed by Western blot analyses. These findings suggest that the chronic post-treatments with fluoxetine might be effective for restoring the reduction of MOP levels in the frontal cortex following long-term abstinence from methamphetamine.

Transport and release of chemicals from plastics to the environment and to wildlife

Plastics debris in the marine environment, including resin pellets, fragments and microscopic plastic fragments, contain organic contaminants, including polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, petroleum hydrocarbons, organochlorine pesticides (2,2'-bis(p-chlorophenyl)-1,1,1-trichloroethane, hexachlorinated hexanes), polybrominated diphenylethers, alkylphenols and bisphenol A, at concentrations from sub ng g(-1) to microg g(-1). Some of these compounds are added during plastics manufacture, while others adsorb from the surrounding seawater. Concentrations of hydrophobic contaminants adsorbed on plastics showed distinct spatial variations reflecting global pollution patterns. Model calculations and experimental observations consistently show that polyethylene accumulates more organic contaminants than other plastics such as polypropylene and polyvinyl chloride. Both a mathematical model using equilibrium partitioning and experimental data have demonstrated the transfer of contaminants from plastic to organisms. A feeding experiment indicated that PCBs could transfer from contaminated plastics to streaked shearwater chicks. Plasticizers, other plastics additives and constitutional monomers also present potential threats in terrestrial environments because they can leach from waste disposal sites into groundwater and/or surface waters. Leaching and degradation of plasticizers and polymers are complex phenomena dependent on environmental conditions in the landfill and the chemical properties of each additive. Bisphenol A concentrations in leachates from municipal waste disposal sites in tropical Asia ranged from sub microg l(-1) to mg l(-1) and were correlated with the level of economic development.

Transport and release of chemicals from plastics to the environment and to wildlife

Plastics debris in the marine environment, including resin pellets, fragments and microscopic plastic fragments, contain organic contaminants, including polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, petroleum hydrocarbons, organochlorine pesticides (2,2'-bis(p-chlorophenyl)-1,1,1-trichloroethane, hexachlorinated hexanes), polybrominated diphenylethers, alkylphenols and bisphenol A, at concentrations from sub ng g(-1) to microg g(-1). Some of these compounds are added during plastics manufacture, while others adsorb from the surrounding seawater. Concentrations of hydrophobic contaminants adsorbed on plastics showed distinct spatial variations reflecting global pollution patterns. Model calculations and experimental observations consistently show that polyethylene accumulates more organic contaminants than other plastics such as polypropylene and polyvinyl chloride. Both a mathematical model using equilibrium partitioning and experimental data have demonstrated the transfer of contaminants from plastic to organisms. A feeding experiment indicated that PCBs could transfer from contaminated plastics to streaked shearwater chicks. Plasticizers, other plastics additives and constitutional monomers also present potential threats in terrestrial environments because they can leach from waste disposal sites into groundwater and/or surface waters. Leaching and degradation of plasticizers and polymers are complex phenomena dependent on environmental conditions in the landfill and the chemical properties of each additive. Bisphenol A concentrations in leachates from municipal waste disposal sites in tropical Asia ranged from sub microg l(-1) to mg l(-1) and were correlated with the level of economic development.

Usefulness of transanal endoscopic surgery for carcinoid tumor in the upper and middle rectum

BACKGROUND

This study evaluated the indications and outcome for transanal endoscopic surgery (TES) used to manage rectal carcinoid tumor as compared with those of conventional transanal local resection (TAR).

METHODS

The retrospective study subjects were 28 patients with rectal carcinoid tumor treated by TES (n = 17) or TAR (n = 11) between January 1995 and December 2001. Patient and tumor characteristics, operative results, and postoperative outcomes were compared between the two groups.

RESULTS

The distance from the anal verge to the distal tumor margin in the TES group (range, 4-12 cm; median, 6.8 cm) was significantly greater than in the TAR group (range, 3-6 cm; median, 4.5 cm) (p = 0.001). The median tumor diameter was 5.5 mm (range, 3-11 mm) in the TES group and 5.0 mm (range, 3-8 mm) in the TAR group, showing no statistical difference. Microscopically, resected specimens in both groups were typical carcinoid tumors restricted to the submucosal layer. No recurrence was noted in either group.

CONCLUSION

Whereas TES is useful for patients with small rectal carcinoid tumor of typical histology within the submucosal layer in the upper and middle rectum, TAR is effective for accessing the lower rectum.

Changes in Expression of the Mouse Homologues of KIAA Genes after Subchronic Methamphetamine Treatment

Amphetamine abuse may be associated with adaptive changes in gene expression in the brain. In the present study, a newly developed cDNA array system comprising mouse KIAA (mKIAA) cDNA clones was used to examine the gene expression affected by chronic methamphetamine treatment. Approximately 800 mKIAA clones were blotted onto a nylon membrane and hybridized with 33P-labeled cDNA derived from mRNAs isolated from the whole brains of mice that had been treated daily with saline or methamphetamine (2 mg/kg, i.p.) for 2 weeks. The arrays displayed robust hybridization for almost all transcripts. The results obtained from five experiments were averaged, each performed with triplicate samples. Several clones were chosen as positive candidates for methamphetamine-induced changes; however, only Per2 and mKIAA0099 genes showed a significantly increased expression (P < .05). Subsequently, with the focus on the period-related proteins, the expression of these proteins in various parts of the rat brain were assessed by immunoblot analysis. Chronic administration of methamphetamine (8 mg/kg, i.p., for 10 days) caused increased Per2 protein expression in the hippocampus. Interestingly, chronic methamphetamine treatment at a lower dose (4 mg/kg, i.p., for 10 days) induced an increase in SCN circadian oscillatory protein (SCOP) expression, also in the hippocampus. These data suggest that long-lasting alterations of the period-related gene expressions in the hippocampus might play an important role in methamphetamine addiction.

Catecholamines and serotonin are differently regulated by tetrahydrobiopterin. A study from 6-pyruvoyltetrahydropterin synthase knockout mice

(6R)-L-erythro-5,6,7,8-Tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) is an essential cofactor for tyrosine hydroxylase (TH), tryptophan hydroxylase, phenylalanine hydroxylase, and nitric-oxide synthase. These enzymes synthesize neurotransmitters, e.g. catecholamines, serotonin, and nitric oxide (NO). We established mice unable to synthesize BH4 by disruption of the 6-pyruvoyltetrahydropterin synthase gene, the encoded protein of which catalyzes the second step of BH4 biosynthesis. Homozygous mice were born at the almost expected Mendelian ratio, but died within 48 h after birth. In the brain of homozygous mutant neonates, levels of biopterin, catecholamines, and serotonin were extremely low. The number of TH molecules was highly dependent on the intracellular concentration of BH4 at nerve terminals. Alteration of the TH protein level by modulation of the BH4 content is a novel regulatory mechanism. Our data showing that catecholaminergic, serotonergic, and NO systems were differently affected by BH4 starvation suggest the possible involvement of BH4 synthesis in the etiology of monoamine-based neurological and neuropsychiatric disorders.

[Effect of ATP-sensitive K+ channel blocker (quinine) on the dopamine decrease induced by selective D3 agonist (7-OH-DPAT) in the rat striatum]

In vivo brain microdialysis was used to investigate the role of D3 receptors relating to dopamine auto-regulated systems in the rat. A local infusion of the dopamine D3 selective agonist, 7-OH-DPAT (100 nM), into the striatum through the dialysis membrane produced a significant decrease in extracellular concentrations of dopamine. A local application of ATP-sensitive K+ (KATP) channel blocker, quinine (10 microM, 100 microM, 1 mM), produced dose-dependent increases in extracellular concentrations of dopamine. Quinine (100 microM, 1 mM) significantly blocked a 7-OH-DPAT-induced decrease in the striatal dopamine levels in the dose-dependent manner. Because of many previous reports, the autoregulated functions of dopamine release by D3 receptors in the striatum can be regarded mainly as nerve terminal autoreceptors and/or a short-loop negative feedback system. Therefore these results suggest that KATP channels may be present in nigrostriatal dopaminergic terminals and that in the striatum, presynaptic dopamine D3 autoreceptors and/or a post-synaptic D3 related short-loop negative feedback system inhibit dopamine release tonically by the activation of KATP channels.

GTP cyclohydrolase I from Tetrahymena pyriformis: cloning of cDNA and expression

A full-length cDNA clone for GTP cyclohydrolase I (EC 3.5.4.16) was isolated from a Tetrahymena pyriformis cDNA library by plaque hybridization. The nucleotide sequence determination revealed that the length of the cDNA insert was 1516 bp. The coding region encoded a protein of 223 amino acid residues with a calculated molecular mass of 25 416 Da. The deduced amino acid sequence of Tetrahrymena GTP cyclohydrolase I showed sequence identity with that of Escherichia coli (55%). The identity of T. pyriformis GTP cyclohydrolase I with sequences of Dictyostelium discoideum, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Drosophila melanogaster, mouse, rat, and human enzymes was less marked and was 30, 30, 25, 28, 28, and 27%, respectively. RNA blot analysis showed a single mRNA species of 2.1 kb in this protozoan. The mRNA level of GTP cyclohydrolase I increased during synchronous cell division induced by intermittent heat treatment. The results suggest that the mRNA expression is associated with the cell cycle of T. pyriformis.

Interaction between cytochrome P450 and other drug-metabolizing enzymes: evidence for an association of CYP1A1 with microsomal epoxide hydrolase and UDP-glucuronosyltransferase

Protein-protein interactions between cytochrome P450 (P450) and other drug-metabolizing enzymes were studied by affinity chromatography using CYP1A1-, glycine-, and bovine serum albumin (BSA)-conjugated Sepharose 4B columns. Sodium cholate-solubilized microsomes from phenobarbital-treated rat liver were applied to the columns and the material eluted with buffer containing NaCl was analyzed by immunoblotting. Microsomal epoxide hydrolase (mEH) and UDP-glucuronosyltransferases (UGTs), as well as NADPH-P450 reductase, were efficiently trapped by the CYP1A1 column. Glycine and BSA columns exhibited no ability to retain these proteins. Protein disulfide isomerase and calnexin, non-drug-metabolizing enzymes expressed in the endoplasmic reticulum, were unable to associate with the CYP1A1 column. These results suggest that CYP1A1 interacts with mEH and UGT to facilitate a series of multistep drug metabolic conversions.

The distribution of serotonergic nerves in microencephalic rats treated prenatally with methylazoxymethanol

Prenatal exposure of pregnant rats to methylazoxymethanol acetate (MAM) induces microencephaly in the offspring. In the present study of these microencephalic rats (MAM rats) we used quantitative autoradiography to investigate [3H] paroxetine binding sites, which are a selective marker of serotonin (5-HT) transporters (5-HTT). The binding in the accumbens, cortex, hippocampus, and dorsolateral thalamus was significantly increased in MAM rats, compared to the control rats, while there was a significant decrease in the dorsal raphe nucleus of the MAM rats. The levels of 5-HTT mRNA in the dorsal raphe nuclei were analyzed by in situ hybridization, which revealed a significant decrease in 5-HTT mRNA-positive neurons in the MAM rats compared to the control rats. The results imply serotonergic hyperinnervation in the cerebral hemispheres of MAM rats, while a target-dependent secondary degeneration of 5-HT neurons might be induced in the dorsal raphe nuclei of MAM rats.

Dopamine D3 receptor binding by D3 agonist 7-OH-DPAT (7-hydroxy-dipropylaminotetralin) and antipsychotic drugs measured ex vivo by quantitative autoradiography

Because the dopamine D3 receptor is primarily expressed in regions of the limbic system of brain, it was proposed that it may represent a target for antipsychotic drugs that is free of extrapyramidal side effects. An ex vivo receptor binding technique employing [3H]7-OH-DPAT was used to evaluate in vivo occupancy of dopamine D3 receptors in the rat nucleus accumbens by selective D3 agonist 7-OH-DPAT (7-hydroxy-dipropylaminotetralin) and various antipsychotic drugs. With an ID50 value of 0.07 mg/kg, the selective D3 agonist (+)-7-OH-DPAT had the most potent inhibitory effect on ex vivo binding of [3H]7-OH-DPAT among all drugs tested. Clinical doses of phenothiazine drugs, such as chlorpromazine and levomepromazine, induce binding to D3 receptors in vivo, while atypical antipsychotic drugs, such as clozapine, pimozide, and sulpiride, are very weak in inhibiting ex vivo binding of [3H]7-OH-DPAT, indicating that the role of D3 receptors as targets of antipsychotic drugs free of extrapyramidal side effects may not be important.

Molecular cloning of the human Nurr1 gene: characterization of the human gene and cDNAs

Nurr1 is a member of the nuclear receptor superfamily of transcription factors that is expressed predominantly in the central nervous system, including developing dopaminergic neurons. Recently, it was demonstrated that Nurr1 is critical for midbrain dopaminergic cell differentiation. In order to investigate a possible relation of Nurr1 with the pathogenesis of Parkinson's disease or other neuropsychiatric disorders, we have cloned and characterized the human Nurr1 gene. The gene exists as a single copy in the human genome and comprises eight exons spanning 8kb. We determined the complete nucleotide sequence and flanking regions of the gene. Potential regulatory regions included consensus binding sites for NF-kappaB, CREB, and Sp1. Isolation of human Nurr1 cDNAs from fetal brain suggested the presence of a new splicing variant of Nurr1 in the human brain.

The atypical antipsychotic sertindole enhances efflux of dopamine and its metabolites in the rat cortex and striatum

Previous studies have shown that sertindole (1-[2-[4-[5-chloro-1-(4-fluorophenyl)-1H-indol-3-yl]-1-piperidinyl]ethyl ]-2 imidazolidinone), an atypical antipsychotic drug that is a potent 5-HT2A and dopamine D2 receptor antagonist, preferentially affects mesocorticolimbic rather than mesostriatal dopamine neurons. Using in vivo microdialysis in conscious rats, we investigated the effects of sertindole on dopamine release and metabolism in the striatum and the medial prefrontal cortex. Systemic administration of sertindole dose dependently enhanced dopamine release in the medial prefrontal cortex and the striatum to the same extent.

Enzymes related to catecholamine biosynthesis in Tetrahymena pyriformis. Presence of GTP cyclohydrolase I

We first identified GTP cyclohydrolase I activity (EC 3.5.4.16) in the ciliated protozoa, Tetrahymena pyriformis. The Vmax value of the enzyme in the cellular extract of T. pyriformis was 255 pmol mg-1 protein h-1. Michaelis-Menten kinetics indicated a positive cooperative binding of GTP to the enzyme. The GTP concentration producing half-maximal velocity was 0.8 mM. By high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with fluorescence detection, a major peak corresponding to D-monapterin (2-amino-4-hydroxy-6-[(1'R,2'R)-1',2',3'-trihydroxypropyl]pteridin e, D-threo-neopterin) and minor peaks of D-erythro-neopterin and L-erythro-biopterin were found to be present in the cellular extract of Tetrahymena. Thus, it is strongly suggested that Tetrahymena converts GTP into unconjugated pteridine derivatives. In this study, dopamine was detected as the major catecholamine, while neither epinephrine nor norepinephrine was identified. Indeed, this protozoa was shown to possess the activity of a dopamine synthesizing enzyme, aromatic L-amino acid decarboxylase. On the other hand, activities of tyrosine hydroxylase or tyrosinase which converts tyrosine into dopa, the substrate of aromatic L-amino acid decarboxylase, could not be detected in this protozoa. Furthermore, neither dopamine beta-hydroxylase activity nor phenylethanolamine N-methyltransferase activity could be identified by the HPLC methods.

Effect of chronic amitriptyline administration on serotonergic receptors in rats with methylazoxymethanol-induced microencephaly

Methylazoxymethanol (MAM)-induced cortical hypoplasia resulted in a 20% decrease in the Bmax of 5-HT2A receptors in the frontal cortex with no change in the Bmax of 5-HT1A receptors. Chronic treatment with amitriptyline did not further decrease the Bmax of 5-HT2A receptors in the MAM-lesioned cortex, suggesting that the persistent down-regulation of cortical 5-HT2A receptors in MAM-lesioned rats was induced by serotonergic hyperinnervation.

Effects of prenatal methylazoxymethanol treatment on striatal dopaminergic systems in rat brain

To further examine the effects of prenatal methylazoxymethanol (MAM) treatment on striatal dopaminergic systems, the status of presynaptic dopamine transporters was examined by quantitative autoradiography of [3H]GBR 12935 binding. Significantly higher [3H]GBR 12935 binding was seen in MAM-lesioned striatum in comparison to the controls, indicating relative dopaminergic hyperinnervation in MAM-induced hypoplastic striatum. The effect of prenatal MAM treatment on extracellular levels of dopamine and its metabolites in the striatum was also examined using in vivo microdialysis. As measured in conscious freely-moving rats, prenatal MAM treatment significantly increased basal dopamine (DA) and 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid (DOPAC) release in the striatum in comparison with control rats. These data suggest that in accordance with morphological dopaminergic hyperinnervation, dopaminergic functions are significantly augmented in MAM-lesioned brains. Thus, it is suggested that MAM-induced microencephalic rats should serve as a good animal model for the study of augmented dopaminergic functions in the striatum.

Nitric oxide donor NOR 3 inhibits ketogenesis from oleate in isolated rat hepatocytes by a cyclic GMP-independent mechanism

Studies were conducted to clarify the effects of nitric oxide donors NOR 3 ((+/-)-(E)-ethyl-2-[(E)-hydroxyimino]-5-nitro-3-hexeneamide, FK409), SIN-1 (3-morpholinosydnonimine) and SNAP (S-nitroso-N-acetylpenicillamine) on the accumulation of cGMP and cAMP and Ca2+ mobilization as well as ketogenesis from oleate in isolated rat hepatocytes. NOR 3 caused inhibition of ketogenesis from oleate along with stimulation of cGMP accumulation in rat hepatocytes, whereas SIN-1 and SNAP exerted no effect on ketogenesis despite their marked stimulation of cGMP accumulation. Although the nitric oxide trapping agent, carboxy-PTIO (2-phenyl-4,4,5,5-tetramethylimidazoline-1-oxyl 3-oxide), antagonized the stimulation by NOR 3 of cGMP accumulation, it failed to modulate the anti-ketogenic action of NOR 3. Furthermore, neither 8-bromoguanosine-3',5'-cyclic monophosphate nor N2,2'-O-dibutyrylguanosine-3',5'-cyclic monophosphate mimicked the anti-ketogenic action of NOR 3. It is concluded in the present study that NOR 3-induced inhibition of ketogenesis in rat hepatocytes is not mediated by cGMP. The present study revealed that the remaining structure of NOR 3 from which nitric oxide had been spontaneously released had no anti-ketogenic action. We first and clearly demonstrated that nitrite production was dramatically enhanced when NOR 3 was incubated in the presence of rat hepatocytes. The mechanism whereby NOR 3 inhibits ketogenesis in rat hepatocytes will be discussed.

Tetrahydrobiopterin biosynthesis enhanced by lipopolysaccharide stimulation in murine neuroblastoma cell line N1E-115

We investigated for the first time the effect of lipopolysaccharide and the signal transduction pathway on the biosynthesis of tetrahydrobiopterin [(6R-L-erythro-1',2'-dihydroxypropyl) -2-amino-4-hydroxy-5,6,7,8-tetrahydropteridine], the cofactor for the enzymatic hydroxylation of the aromatic amino acids, in the murine neuroblastoma cell line N1E-115, which synthesizes tetrahydrobiopterin constitutively. Activation of N1E-115 cells with 1 microgram/ml lipopolysaccharide resulted in statistically significant increases in both intracellular tetrahydrobiopterin contents and the activity (Vmax) of GTP cyclohydrolase I, a rate-limiting enzyme in tetrahydrobiopterin de novo biosynthesis. Following simultaneous addition of the inhibitors of protein tyrosine kinases and GTP-binding proteins into serum-free culture media with lipopolysaccharide, we analyzed the transduction pathway of lipopolysaccharide signal toward the tetrahydrobiopterin biosynthetic system in N1E-115 cells. Our data indicate the following conclusions: (a) Protein tyrosine kinase systems are involved in mediating lipopoly-saccharide signal to tetrahydrobiopterin production, and (b) there may be a cross-talk between GTP-binding protein and the protein tyrosine kinase system in mediating lipopolysaccharide signal. These observations suggest that a neuronal cell such as N1E-115, which barely expresses CD14 on its cell surface, responds to lipopolysaccharide like macrophages and monocytes in the absence of soluble CD14.

Analysis of an alternative promoter that regulates tissue-specific expression of the human aromatic L-amino acid decarboxylase gene in cultured cell lines

The human aromatic L-amino acid decarboxylase (AADC) gene is transcribed in a tissue-specific manner by an alternative promoter. In this study using human cultured cell lines, we analyzed the alternative promoter that regulates tissue-specific expression of AADC. Neither neuronal nor nonneuronal-type mRNA of AADC was detected in HeLa cells, nonneuronal-type mRNA of AADC was expressed in HepG2 cells, and the neuronal-type was expressed in the SK-N-SH cell line. We examined the promoter activities located in 5'- and 3'-flanking regions of exon N1 and exon L1 by transfection experiments. Plasmids containing 5'-flanking regions of exon L1, the shortest of which was 0.3 kb, could promote specifically high expression of the reporter gene HepG2 cells. On the other hand, plasmids containing 5'-flanking regions of exon N1 (3.6 kb to 0.5 kb) could promote the reporter gene expression not only in SK-N-SH cells but also in HeLa and HepG2. More enhanced expression were observed by transfection of plasmids containing parts of the first intron in these cell lines. Thus, these results suggest that the basal liver-specific promoter activity is located in the 5'-flanking region of exon L1 and that the first intron may also be needed for enhanced expression rather than determination of cell-specificity.

Metabolic effects of glibenclamide in isolated rat hepatocytes in the absence of extracellular Ca2+

We examined the metabolic effects of glibenclamide, a potent second-generation sulfonylurea, in isolated rat hepatocytes incubated in the absence of extracellular Ca2+. We first demonstrated in the present study that glibenclamide caused a significant increase in basal glucose release and lactate production without any modification of intracellular Ca2+ concentration or cAMP levels in isolated rat hepatocytes. Furthermore, glibenclamide inhibited the noradrenaline-induced increase in cAMP accumulation, while activation of glycogenolysis by noradrenaline was not suppressed by this agent. Our data indicate that glibenclamide exerts its metabolic effects independent of intracellular Ca2+ mobilization and cAMP accumulation.

Isolation of a full-length cDNA clone for human GTP cyclohydrolase I type 1 from pheochromocytoma

Although the existence of three different cDNA forms of human GTP cyclohydrolase I (GCH I) have been reported (Togari et al., 1992), the full-length sequence of any human GCH I cDNA involving poly (A) tail has not yet been documented. In the present study, we first isolated a full-length cDNA clone encoding human GCH I type 1 from human pheochromocytoma cDNA library. The length of the cDNA insert was 2,921 base pairs including poly (A) tail. RNA blot analysis showed a single mRNA species of 4.0 kb in human pheochromocytoma tissue.

Effects of systemically administered ceruletide on the in vivo release and metabolism of dopamine in the medial prefrontal cortex of awake, freely moving rats: an in vivo microdialysis study

The effects of the cholecystokinin octapeptide-related peptide, ceruletide (CER), on the in vivo release and metabolism of dopamine (DA) in the medial prefrontal cortex were examined in awake, freely moving rats, using in vivo microdialysis. Subcutaneously administered CER (200 micrograms/kg) increased extracellular levels of DA, 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid (DOPAC), and homovanillic acid (HVA), indicating that extracellular levels of DOPAC and HVA may reflect DA release in the medial prefrontal cortex. Bilateral subdiaphragmatic vagotomy markedly attenuated the CER-induced effect, but did not abolish it completely. CER (10(-7) and 10(-10) M), applied locally via the dialysis tube, had no effect on the extracellular levels of either DOPAC or HVA. The CCK-A receptor antagonist, L-364,718 (3 mg/kg, i.p.), completely prevented CER-induced increases in the extracellular levels of DOPAC and HVA. The CCK-B antagonist, L-365,260 (3 mg/kg, i.p.), however, given 1 h before the CER treatment, slightly attenuated the CER-induced increase in the extracellular levels of DOPAC, but not the CER-induced increase in HVA, 60-180 min after the treatment. These findings indicate that systemically administered CER modulates the in vivo release and metabolism of DA in the medial prefrontal cortex. We suggest that systemically administered CER exerts its action on both vagal afferent nerves and the area postrema via CCK-A receptors, thus enhancing the in vivo release and metabolism of DA in the medial prefrontal cortex.

Alpha 1B-adrenoceptor-mediated stimulation of Ca2+ mobilization and cAMP accumulation in isolated rat hepatocytes

Noradrenaline stimulates not only Ca2+ mobilization but also cAMP formation through activation of alpha 1-adrenoceptors in hepatocytes from mature male rats. We examined which subtype(s) of alpha 1-adrenoceptor mediate these signal transduction mechanisms. Treatment of hepatocytes with chloroethylclonidine produced a dose-dependent inhibition of noradrenaline-induced Ca2+ mobilization, involving both transient and sustained components. Chloroethylclonidine also blocked noradrenaline-induced cAMP accumulation. It was observed that prazosin was much more potent than WB4101 (2-(2,6-dimethoxy-phenoxyethyl)aminomethyl-1,4-benzodioxane) in antagonizing noradrenaline-induced Ca2+ mobilization. The same potency order was found in cAMP formation studies. Pretreatment of rats with pertussis toxin did not affect alpha 1-adrenergic responsiveness. Incubations of hepatocytes with tumor-promoting phorbol esters eliminated both Ca2+ mobilization and cAMP accumulation caused by noradrenaline. Our data suggest that in hepatocytes from mature male rats, single alpha 1B-adrenoceptors are linked to cAMP formation as well as Ca2+ mobilization.

Cloning and sequencing of cDNA encoding mouse GTP cyclohydrolase I

A full-length cDNA clone for GTP cyclohydrolase I (EC 3.5.4.16) was isolated from a mouse brain cDNA library by plaque hybridization. The nucleotide sequence determination revealed that the length of the cDNA insert was 994 base pairs. The coding region encoded a protein of 241 amino acid residues with a calculated molecular mass of 27,014 daltons. The deduced amino acid sequence of mouse GTP cyclohydrolase I was found to be highly homologous to rat (96%) and human type 1 (89%) enzymes.

Ribosomal DNA clusters in pulsed-field gel electrophoretic analysis of human acrocentric chromosomes

For determination of the extent to which ribosomal DNA (rDNA) is organized in tandemly repeated arrays, cellular DNA was digested with a restriction enzyme (EcoRV) that does not cut within the single 44-kb rDNA unit, and fragments separated by PFGE were hybridized to specific rDNA probes. A series of bands large enough to contain 15 to more than 30 rDNA repeat units was observed. In YACs containing cloned rDNA, however, such clusters were not observed, presumably because, as shown here for a clone starting with 1.5 tandem repeat units, there is a tendency for repeat units to delete out of the insert. By comparative gel electrophoretic analyses of DNAs from rodent hybrid cells containing singly isolated human chromosomes, most of the bands seen in total human DNA were assigned to at least one of the acrocentric chromosomes. Thus, large characteristic assemblies of DNA containing rDNA and lacking EcoRV sites were stable enough to be conserved in some human/rodent hybrid lines. When further digested with HindIII, which cuts rDNA at several points, the rDNA in each band yielded the expected fragments. If the large species consist completely of clusters of tandemly repeated rDNA units, they account for about half of the total cellular rDNA content estimated by saturation hybridization measurements.

Tissue-specific alternative splicing of the first exon generates two types of mRNAs in human aromatic L-amino acid decarboxylase

Aromatic-L-amino-acid decarboxylase (AADC) is an enzyme that plays an essential role in synthesizing catecholamines and serotonin in neuronal and endocrine tissues. AADC has also been detected in other nonneuronal tissues including liver and kidney, although its physiological role in nonneuronal tissues has not yet been defined. Previously we have cloned a human AADC cDNA from a neuronal tissue (pheochromocytoma) [Ichinose, H., Kurosawa, Y., Titani, K., Fujita, K., & Nagatsu, T. (1989) Biochem. Biophys. Res. Commun. 164, 1024-1030] and the corresponding genomic DNA [Sumi-Ichinose, C., Ichinose, H., Takahashi, E., Hori, T., & Nagatsu, T. (1992) Biochemistry 31, 2229-2238]. Here we present isolation and characterization of AADC cDNA and genomic DNA from a nonneuronal tissue (human liver). The nonneuronal and neuronal AADC mRNAs differed only in the region corresponding to the untranslated first exon. The first exon for the nonneuronal-type mRNA was located 4.2 kilobases upstream to that for the neuronal-type mRNA and 22 kilobases from exon 2, to which it is spliced. Determination of the transcription initiation site indicated that the length of the nonneuronal-type exon 1 was 200 bp. A TATA box-like motif was located between positions -26 and -20 from the transcription initiation site. These results showed that an alternative usage of the first exon in the 5'-untranslated regions produces two types of mRNAs in AADC and suggested that alternative splicing would regulate the tissue-specific expression of AADC.

The effects of intraperitoneally administered phencyclidine on the central nervous system: behavioral and neurochemical studies

The effects of intraperitoneally (IP) injected phencyclidine (phencyclohexyl piperidine; PCP) on the metabolism of dopamine (DA) and cholecystokinin-like immunoreactivity (CCK-LI) in the rat brain were investigated in connection with PCP-induced behavioral changes. The predominant behavior change elicited by 2.5 mg/kg PCP was locomotion, while with higher doses (5 and 10 mg/kg) sniffing, swaying and falling were observed in addition to the enhanced locomotor activity. Backpedaling and rotation were observed in 10 mg/kg PCP-treated rats. IP injection of PCP caused a dose-related increase in the levels of DA and 3,4-dihydroxy-phenylacetic acid (DOPAC) in the medial frontal cortex (MFC) and anterior cingulate cortex (ant.CC) without any changes in the nucleus accumbens (NAc) or striatum. CCK-LI in the MFC, ant.CC and NAc was decreased in a dose-dependent manner following IP injection of PCP. These findings support the evidence that PCP selectively activates the mesocortical DA systems. Furthermore, our results indicate a functional relationship between the mesocortical DA neurons and intrinsic CCK containing cortical neurons, and the change in the activity of the intrinsic CCK-containing cortical neurons in these two areas, perhaps due to an alteration in DA transmission, might be involved in behavioral changes after PCP injection.

The human HPRT gene on a yeast artificial chromosome is functional when transferred to mouse cells by cell fusion

A 680-kb yeast artificial chromosome (YAC) that contains a functional copy of the human hypoxanthine phosphoribosyltransferase (HPRT) gene has been isolated. This YAC, yHPRT, and another YAC, yXY837, which contains the 3' end of the HPRT gene, have been mapped with restriction enzymes that cleave human DNA infrequently. The HPRT gene lies near the center of yHPRT. Fusion of yHPRT-containing yeast spheroplasts with mouse L A-9 cells, which are HPRT-negative, gives rise to HPRT-positive colonies. These colonies contain the human HPRT gene and express human HPRT mRNA. Fusion of yeast with mammalian cells is an efficient way of testing the integrity and functionality of human DNA contained in YACs.

Alpha 1-adrenergic regulation of ketogenesis in isolated rat hepatocytes

Studies were conducted to clarify the effects of noradrenaline on oleate metabolism in isolated hepatocytes from fed rats. Noradrenaline caused an inhibition of ketogenesis from oleate along with a stimulation of glucose release through alpha 1-adrenergic receptors. Anti-ketogenic action of noradrenaline was confirmed by the suppression of the formation of radioactive acid-soluble products from [1-14C]oleate in response to this agent. Noradrenaline increased the conversion of [1-14C]oleate into 14CO2 but failed to affect [1-14C]oleate esterification. When hepatocytes were incubated in a medium containing 1 mM EGTA but no Ca2+, the effects of noradrenaline on oleate oxidation were negated. On the other hand, noradrenaline-induced increase in glucose release remained unchanged even in the absence of Ca2+ in the incubation medium. Decrease in ketogenesis and increase in glucose release produced by vasopressin was completely abolished by calcium depletion. Noradrenaline caused a significant increase in cAMP levels in both the presence and absence of Ca2+, although the effect was more marked in the latter. Vasopressin did not affect it. The noradrenaline-induced increase in cAMP and glucose release in the absence of Ca2+ was also mediated by alpha 1-adrenergic receptors. These data are discussed and it is suggested that alpha 1-adrenergic agonists may control hepatic ketogenesis and glycogenolysis through two separate signal transduction mechanisms, i.e., a calcium-mobilizing system which is common with vasopressin, and a cAMP generation system which vasopressin lacks.

Stable integration and expression in mouse cells of yeast artificial chromosomes harboring human genes

We have developed a way to fit yeast artificial chromosomes (YACs) with markers that permit the selection of stably transformed mammalian cells, and have determined the fate and expression of such YACs containing the genes for human ribosomal RNA (rDNA) or glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD). The YACs in the yeast cell are "retrofitted" with selectable markers by homologous recombination with the URA3 gene of one vector arm. The DNA fragment introduced contains a LYS2 marker selective in yeast and a thymidine kinase (TK) marker selective in TK-deficient cells, bracketed by portions of the URA3 sequence that disrupt the endogenous gene during the recombination event. Analyses of transformed L-M TK- mouse cells showed that YACs containing rDNA or G6PD were incorporated in essentially intact form into the mammalian cell DNA. For G6PD, a single copy of the transfected YAC was found in each of two transformants analyzed and was fully expressed, producing the expected human isozyme as well as the heterodimer composed of the human gene product and the endogenous mouse gene product.

Counteraction of estradiol-induced activation of tissue-type plasminogen activator in a human breast cancer cell line by an anti-estrogen, LY117018

LY117018 is a non-steroid anti-estrogen which exhibits about 100 times higher affinity for estrogen receptor than tamoxifen, another anti-estrogen. The cell line ES-1, which was isolated from human breast cancer MCF-7 cells, was highly sensitive to the cytocidal action of estradiol. Growth of ES-1 cells was inhibited by 10(-8)M 17 beta-estradiol, a concentration that stimulated the growth of parental MCF-7 cells. The estradiol-induced growth inhibition of ES-1 cells was almost completely reversed by treatment with LY117018, but not by treatment with tamoxifen. The relative binding affinity of LY117018 for estradiol receptor was equal to that of estradiol in both MCF-7 and ES-1 cells. Treatment of ES-1 cells with estradiol specifically induced tissue-type plasminogen activator (t-PA), whereas such estradiol-induced activation was not observed in parental MCF-7 cells. Quantitative immunoreactive assays and Northern blot analysis showed that estradiol-induced expression of t-PA was blocked by LY117018 in ES-1 cells. The inhibitory effect of tamoxifen was about 100 times lower than that of LY117018. The inhibition of t-PA gene expression by LY117018 might be due to competitive inhibition with estradiol in estradiol receptor binding.

Effects of ceruletide and haloperidol on the hypothalamo-pituitary beta-endorphin system and brain beta-endorphin contents in the rat: with special reference to effects of ceruletide in chronically haloperidol-treated rats

Subcutaneous (sc) administration of 200 micrograms/kg ceruletide (CER), a decapeptide chemically related CCK-8, and 5 mg/kg haloperidol (HLP) to rats increased the plasma immunoreactive beta-endorphin (ir-beta-END) level. The combined injection of CER and haloperidol caused higher plasma ir-beta-END levels than either drug alone. High plasma ir-beta-END levels returned to control levels on the 2nd day. Prior intraperitoneal (ip) administration of a CCK receptor antagonist, L-364,718 (3 mg/kg), but not proglumide (400 mg/kg, ip), inhibited CER-induced, but not HLP-induced, elevation in plasma ir-beta-END levels. The dopamine agonist, bromocriptine (1 mg/kg, ip) decreased plasma ir-beta-END levels, but had not effect on CER-induced elevation in plasma ir-beta-END levels, whereas bromocriptine-induced reduction in plasma ir-beta-END levels was antagonised by HLP. CER injection to chronically HLP-treated rats caused a greater elevation of plasma ir-beta-END levels compared to saline-injected rats. In contrast to the acute experiment, plasma ir-beta-END levels remained elevated over a period of 24 h. In the acute experiment, CER, HLP or the combined treatment with these two drugs had no effect on ir-beta-END contents in the pituitary gland and brain. In the chronic experiment, HLP increased the adenohypophyseal and septal ir-beta-END contents and decreased the hippocampal ir-beta-END contents 24 h after the final HLP injection. CER caused a small reduction only in the hippocampal ir-beta-END contents of CER-injected rats 15 min after injection. When determined on the 2nd day, however, the increases in the adenohypophyseal and septal ir-beta-END contents and the decrease in the hippocampal ir-beta-END contents observed in CER-injected rats were of the same magnitude as those of rats not given the CER injection. These findings indicate that CER stimulates the release of ir-beta-END from the adenohypophysis through CCK-A receptors and that elevated plasma ir-beta-END levels is partly involved in some behavioural effects induced by CER. Furthermore, sustained elevation of plasma ir-beta-END levels after a single injection of CER to chronically HLP-treated rats may explain its long-lasting therapeutic and behavioural effects.

Effects of exogenous phospholipase enzymes, arachidonic acid and 1-oleoyl-2-acetyl-sn-glycerol on ketogenesis in isolated rat hepatocytes

Studies were conducted to see whether exogenous phospholipase C from Clostridium perfringens, phospholipase A2 from Crotalus adamanteus venom, arachidonic acid and 1-oleoyl-2-acetyl-sn-glycerol (OAG) mimic the anti-ketogenic action of vasopressin in isolated rat hepatocytes. Exogenous phospholipase C inhibited ketogenesis in the presence of 0.5 mM oleate. Experiments employing [1-14C]oleate, however, indicated that the mechanism involved in the anti-ketogenic action of exogenous phospholipase C is distinct from that of vasopressin. The decreased rate of the production of acid-soluble products from [1-14C]oleate in response to vasopressin could be explained by the sum of the increased rates of 14CO2 formation and [1-14C]oleate esterification. By contrast, exogenous phospholipase C suppressed not only the formation of acid-soluble products but also 14CO2 production and [1-14C]oleate esterification. Indeed, phospholipase C greatly inhibited [1-14C]oleate uptake into hepatocytes. It is suggested that the alteration of the architecture of plasma membrane by exogenous phospholipase C may lead to the disturbance of oleate uptake and consequent general suppression of oleate metabolism. Exogenous phospholipase A2, arachidonic acid and OAG increased ketogenesis regardless of the presence of oleate. The ketogenic effects may be attributed to the supply of fatty acids by these agents to hepatocytes.

A behavioural pharmacological study on intracerebroventricularly administered CCK-8 related peptides in mice

The sulfated form of cholecystokinin octapeptide (CCK-8) and ceruletide (CER), but not their non-sulfated forms of CCK-4, significantly decreased the rates of locomotor activity and rearing during the first 10 min test session 10 min after intracerebroventricular (ICV) administration at doses more than 25 and 3.125 mg, respectively. CER-S antagonized methylphenidate-induced hypermotility after ICV administration at a dose of 800 ng. Plasma levels of CER-like immunoreactivity (CER-LI) measured at 120 min after subcutaneous injection, when the locomotor suppressive activity induced by 100 and 200 micrograms was no longer observed, were similar to or much higher than that 30 min after ICV administration at a dose of 800ng, suggesting that the effects of ICV CER-S are not mediated by a peripheral redistribution. These findings indicate that (1) the structural requirement for the locomotor suppressive activity is sulfated tyrosine residue; (2) the behavioural effects of ICV-administered CCK-8-S and CER-S are due to their central actions and mediated by the/inhibition of the central dopamine (DA) function; and (3) CCK-8-S in the brain is functionally associated with the central DA system.

Potentiation by a biscoclaurine alkaloid, cepharanthine, of the toxicity of conjugates of epidermal growth factor with Pseudomonas exotoxin in HeLa cells

Cepharanthine, a biscoclaurine alkaloid, causes an 8-fold enhancement of the cytotoxic effect of a conjugate of epidermal growth factor (EGF) coupled with Pseudomonas exotoxin in HeLa cells. Cepharanthine also potentiates the effect of Pseudomonas exotoxin. Cepharanthine does not affect the binding and uptake of 125I-EGF by HeLa cells, but it delays the release of radioactivity associated with 125I-EGF into the medium. Analysis by colloidal silica gradients using cell homogenates suggests that 125I-EGF accumulates in the lysosomes of cells treated with cepharanthine and that [3H]cepharanthine accumulates in lysosomes. The pH in HeLa cell lysosomes is 5.2, and cepharanthine does not significantly increase the pH. Electron microscopy shows an increased number of electron-dense bodies and dilated Golgi apparatus after cepharanthine treatment. Cepharanthine appears to accumulate in lysosomes, and it may delay degradation of EGF-Pseudomonas exotoxin in the cells as does 125I-EGF.

Estrogen inhibits the growth of MCF-7 cell variants resistant to transforming growth factor-beta

Human breast cancer MCF-7 cells containing estrogen receptor are killed by transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta). We isolated variants of MCF-7 highly resistant to TGF-beta. Variants ES-1 and ES-4 were cloned, and the growth of ES-1 and ES-4 was found to be inhibited by estradiol, whereas estradiol stimulated the growth of the parental MCF-7 cells. ES-1 cells contained about 2-fold higher level of estradiol receptor than MCF-7 cells. Addition of estradiol to the culture medium for MCF-7 and the variant changed the expression of several secreted proteins. The repertoire of secreted proteins was markedly altered in the variant. Polypeptides of molecular weight 52,000 (52 K), 65 K and 160 K were increased about 10- to 50-fold in both estradiol-treated MCF-7 and ES-1 cells. Polypeptide of 130 K was decreased in estradiol-treated ES-1 cells while this polypeptide was increased about 4-fold in estradiol-treated MCF-7, as compared with untreated MCF-7. Polypeptide of 100 K was specifically secreted in ES-1 whether or not estradiol was present, but there appeared to be no significant amount of the 100 K protein in MCF-7. The estradiol-hypersensitive phenotype is discussed in relation to its aberrant expression of secreting proteins.

Effect of ceruletide on discriminated avoidance behavior in rats

To clarify the central action of peripherally administered ceruletide, we examined the effects of ceruletide and four different classes of neuroleptics, i.e. haloperidol, chlorpromazine, oxypertine and sulpiride, on the discriminated avoidance response (DAR) in rats. Ceruletide and sulpiride did not suppress the DAR over a broad range of doses, whereas other three neuroleptics caused a dose-related decrease in both avoidance and response rates. In addition, the combined administration of ceruletide (100 micrograms/kg s.c.) and neuroleptics at critical doses that suppress the DAR caused a significant reduction in the avoidance rate without affecting the response rate, compared with neuroleptics alone. These findings suggest that ceruletide influences the central dopaminergic system, potentiating the central effects of neuroleptics and producing the favorable therapeutic effects observed in the clinical trials.

Effects of phorbol esters, A23187 and vasopressin on oleate metabolism in isolated rat hepatocytes

Studies were conducted to compare the metabolic effects of vasopressin, 4 beta-phorbol-12-myristate-13-acetate (PMA) and A23187 on ketogenesis and oleate metabolism in isolated hepatocytes from fed rats. Vasopressin inhibited the formation of acid-soluble products from [1-14C]oleate (0.25 mM, 0.5 mM and 1 mM), the inhibition being most marked at low (0.25 mM) concentration of oleate. Conversion of [1-14C]oleate into 14CO2 and esterified products was stimulated by vasopressin. The stimulatory effect of this hormone on 14CO2 production was most marked at high (1 mM) concentration of oleate, whereas that on [1-14C]oleate esterification was most marked at low (0.25 mM) concentration of oleate. These vasopressin actions were abolished when hepatocytes were incubated in the absence of calcium in the medium. Our results strongly suggest that both increase in esterification and increase in oxidation to CO2 contribute to the anti-ketogenic action of vasopressin when oleate is added as substrate, although the relative extent of their contribution varies according to the oleate concentration. The anti-ketogenic action of vasopressin was mimicked by PMA but not by A23187. PMA also caused a stimulation of [1-14C]oleate esterification although the effect was diminished at 1 mM [1-14C]oleate. A23187 failed to affect [1-14C]oleate esterification. The metabolic effects of PMA were elicited in the absence of extracellular calcium, too. Conversion of [1-14C]oleate into 14CO2 was only slightly increased by both PMA and A23187 when 1 mM [1-14C]oleate was added as substrate. The marked stimulatory effect of vasopressin on 14CO2 production from [1-14C]oleate was not reproduced even by the combination of PMA and A23187.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Bilateral subdiaphragmatic vagotomy does not prevent the behavioral effects of systematically administered ceruletide in mice

To clarify the vagal mediation of behavioral changes following systematically administered CCK-like peptides, we examined the effects of subcutaneously injected ceruletide on several behavioral parameters. Ceruletide at a dose of 100 micrograms/kg reduced the rates of spontaneous locomotor activity and rearing, and also inhibited methylphenidate- and methamphetamine-induced hyperactivity in both sham-operated and vagotomized mice to same extent, whereas bilateral subdiaphragmatic vagotomy attenuated these behavioral parameters. These results indicate that the ascending sensory pathway mediating a peripheral CCK-elicited signal may not be responsible for producing the behavioral effects of systematically administered CCK-like peptides.

A case report of mixed mesodermal tumor of the uterine cervix (mixed, heterologous and homologous sarcoma of the uterine cervix)

A case of mixed sarcoma of the uterine cervix in a 17-year-old girl is reported. The tumor showed polypoid features resembling sarcoma botryoides, and was histologically composed of chondrosarcoma as a heterologous element and stromal sarcoma as a homologous one. Leiomyosarcoma was also found in the tumor, but striated rhabdomyoblasts were not present. No epithelial component was detected. After a total hysterectomy, the patient was given chemotherapy and is in good condition.

A behavioral pharmacological study on CCK-8 related peptides in mice

The effects of CCK-8, ceruletide, their non-sulfated forms and CCK-4 on locomotor activity and rearing in mice were examined. CCK-8 and ceruletide, but not their non-sulfated forms and CCK-4, significantly inhibited the behavioral parameters dose-dependently. The inhibitory effects of CCK-8 and ceruletide were similar, but ceruletide acted more slowly and its inhibitory effect continued much longer than CCK-8, suggesting a difference in stability with the chemical structure. The antagonistic effects of ceruletide on behavioral changes induced by DA agonists were also examined. Peripherally injected ceruletide antagonized both methylphenidate- and methamphetamine-induced hyperactivity in mice dose-dependently, whereas it had no dose-related antagonistic effect on methylphenidate-induced stereotyped behavior. Ceruletide also significantly inhibited apomorphine-induced hyperactivity when injected peripherally. However, no obvious dose-response relationship was observed in either intensity or duration of inhibitory action of ceruletide. These findings suggest that ceruletide does not interfere with dopaminergic transmission due to the blockade of postsynaptic DA receptors in the brain. In conclusion, peripheral injection of CCK-8 and ceruletide may affect directly or indirectly dopamine function producing behavioral changes that resemble those of neuroleptics in some respects.

Human mammary cancer cell mutants with altered hormone receptor activity

We have recently isolated retinoic acid-resistant clones U-2 and U-3 from human breast cancer cell line MCF-7 (Ueda et al. (1985) Cancer Res. 45, 3332-3338). Growth of MCF-7 cells was found to be stimulated by estradiol but that of U-2 or U-3 was not. Cytosol from U-2 or U-3 cells contained no detectable estradiol receptor activity, whereas that from the parental MCF-7 cells showed estradiol receptor activity of 32 fmol/mg cytosol protein with a Kd of 2.6 X 10(-10) M by Scatchard analysis. Sucrose gradient centrifugation analysis of the cytosol fraction confirmed the presence of estradiol receptor activity in MCF-7 but not in U-2. Cytosol from MCF-7 and U-2 cells showed progesterone receptor activities of 106 fmol/mg protein with a Kd of 7.4 X 10(-10) M and 13 fmol/mg protein with a Kd of 9.9 X 10(-10) M, respectively. Addition of estradiol to the culture medium of the cells increased the level of progesterone receptor about 2-fold in MCF-7, but not in U-2. U-2 or U-3 cells showed about 5-fold higher resistance to an antiestrogen, tamoxifen, than MCF-7, and they were also 300- to 1,000-fold more resistant to other antiestrogens, epitiostanol and medroxyprogesterone, than MCF-7. The altered cellular sensitivity of U-2 or U-3 to the hormone antagonists is discussed in relation to the absence or presence of hormone receptors.

Effects of vasopressin, angiotensin II and phenylephrine on hepatic ketogenesis and fatty acid synthesis

Studies were conducted to clarify the effects of vasopressin, angiotensin II and phenylephrine on hepatic ketogenesis and fatty acid synthesis. Hepatocytes from fed rats were incubated with oleate or octanoate. Vasopressin stimulated fatty acid synthesis as well as lactate and pyruvate accumulation in the presence of oleate. In accordance with this action, vasopressin caused a marked decrease in ketogenesis from oleate. When octanoate was added as a substrate, vasopressin failed to inhibit ketogenesis. Neither angiotensin II nor phenylephrine affected ketogenesis or fatty acid synthesis. The results in the present study show that there are vasopressin-mediated reciprocal changes in ketogenesis from oleate and fatty acid synthesis in isolated hepatocytes.