Simultaneous assessment of the in vivo amount of CYP1A2 and CYP3A2 by the PKCYP-test using theophylline in rats

Recently, we developed a method for assessing in vivo drug metabolism capacity by pharmacokinetic estimation of the quantity of cytochrome P450 (CYP) in vivo (PKCYP-test), in which an apparent liver-to-blood free concentration gradient in vivo (qg) is introduced. The qg value can be alternatively defined as the ratio of the in vivo-in vitro clearance by a single CYP isoform. In this study, we examined the application of the PKCYP-test to drugs metabolized by multiple CYP isoforms in a rat model with fluctuating CYP1A2 levels using theophylline as a model drug. In control rats, the estimated qg values for each CYP1A2 and CYP3A2 based on the in vivo hepatic intrinsic clearance, in vitro Michaelis constant (K(m)) and maximal rate of metabolism (V(max)) values for liver slices agreed well. Moreover, the qg value for CYP1A2 determined by the K(m) and V(max) values for recombinant CYP1A2 was compatible with that based on liver slices. These qg values also agreed with that of rats pretreated with 3-methylcholanthrene. The time-course of theophylline concentrations in serum simulated by a physiologically-based pharmacokinetic model incorporating the hepatic clearance determined by the PKCYP-test agreed with the observed values. These results demonstrate that the qg value in the PKCYP-test is applicable to drugs metabolized by multiple CYP isoforms.

Application of the PKCYP Test to Predict Caffeine Clearance Mediated by CYP1A2 in a Rat Acute Liver Injury Model

We previously established a method for assessing in vivo drug-metabolizing capacity by pharmacokinetic estimation of the quantity of cytochrome P450 (CYP) in vivo (PKCYP test), in which an apparent liver-to-blood free concentration gradient in vivo (qg) is introduced (Matsunaga et al., Jpn. J. Hosp. Pharm., 26: 492-504 (2000)). This method was applied to estimate the amount of CYP2C11 in rats treated with carbon tetrachloride (CCl(4)-treated rats). In this study, we estimated the amount of CYP1A2 in CCl(4)-treated rats by using acetanilide and caffeine as a probe and a model drug, respectively. In CCl(4)-treated rats, the total body clearance (CL(tot)) of acetanilide and caffeine was about one-fifth and one-eighth of that in control rats, respectively. In CCl(4)-treated rats, the amount of CYP1A2 was predicted as 0.60+/-0.06 nmol/kg from the clearance of acetanilide mediated by CYP1A2. Moreover, the clearance of caffeine mediated by CYP1A2 in CCl(4)-treated rats was estimated as 0.47+/-0.05 mL/min/kg by using the predicted amount of CYP1A2. The observed value was 0.44+/-0.03 mL/min/kg, and the predicted value was within the 95% confidence interval of the observed value. In conclusion, we have demonstrated that the PKCYP test can also be applied for estimating the amount of CYP1A2 in CCl(4)-treated rats.

Application of the PKCYP-test to predict the amount of in vivo CYP2C11 using tolbutamide as a probe

Previous reports have shown that the determination of drug metabolism capacity can be made by the pharmacokinetic estimation of the quantity of cytochrome P450 (CYP) in vivo (PKCYP-test), in which an apparent liver-to-blood free concentration gradient in vivo (qg) is introduced, which is useful for evaluating fluctuations of CYPIA2 in rats. The aim of the present study was to examine the application of the PKCYP-test to evaluate the quantity of in vivo CYP2C11 by using tolbutamide as a probe, to confirm its validity using a physiologically-based pharmacokinetic rat model. Rats treated with carbon tetrachloride (CCl4-treated rats) were used as a model for low levels of CYP2C11 in the liver. In CCl4-treated rats, the total body clearance (CLtot) of tolbutamide and the amount of CYP2C11 fell to about a quarter and a third of that in control rats, respectively. The time-course of tolbutamide concentrations in serum in control rats could be simulated by a physiologically-based pharmacokinetic model. In CCl4-treated rats, take into consideration the qg value of control rats, the level of CYP2C11 was accurately predicted by the PKCYP-test, and the time-course of tolbutamide concentrations in serum could be predicted by the same physiologically-based pharmacokinetic model. In conclusion, we have shown that the PKCYP-test can be used to predict levels of CYP2C11. It was also demonstrated that the qg and amount of CYP are useful parameters in the PKCYP-test by constructing a physiologically-based pharmacokinetic model which was applied to the PKCYP-test.

Application of the PKCYP-test in cases of altered CYP1A2 for multiple CYP systems in rat models of disease

Previously, we established a method to assess drug metabolism capacity based on a pharmacokinetic estimation of the quantity of cytochrome P450 (CYP) in vivo (PKCYP-test) by introducing an apparent liver-to-blood free concentration gradient in vivo (qg). The qg values were determined as the ratio of in vivo-in vitro clearance. In this study, we examined the application of the PKCYP-test to the clearance of acetanilide and caffeine mediated by CYP1A2 using rat models in which the levels of CYP enzymes were reduced. Rats fed a choline-deficient diet (CD-fed) and aged rats were used as models for a low level of CYP in the liver. In both rat models, the contribution (fCYP) of CYP1A2 to the in vivo intrinsic clearance values (CLint) of acetanilide and caffeine metabolism was less than unity, suggesting that other metabolic pathways are involved in the CLint. The in vivo clearance for CYP1A2 was estimated by multiplying fCYP by CLint, then the value of qg was determined as the ratio of in vivo-in vitro clearance. We predicted the level of CYP1A2 in CD-fed and aged rats, based on the clearance of acetanilide mediated by CYP1A2, using the qg value of control rats. The clearance of caffeine mediated by CYP1A2 in CD-fed and aged rats, as estimated from the predicted level of CYP1A2, correlated with the observed values. In conclusion, we have demonstrated that the PKCYP-test can be applied to CYP1A2 for drugs metabolized by multiple CYP isozymes, and/or to models involving reduced CYP.

Characterization of benzo[a]pyrene metabolism and related cytochrome P-450 isozymes in Syrian hamster livers

Cytochrome P-450 monooxygenases of golden Syrian hamsters were characterized with respect to benzo[a]pyrene metabolism. Male hamsters were treated with phenobarbital, 3-methylcholanthrene, dexamethasone, benzoflavone, or ethanol, and the activity of aryl hydrocarbon hydroxylase and benzo[a]pyrene activation was determined by mutagenicity testing in hepatic microsomes. Aryl hydrocarbon hydroxylase activity was induced markedly by treatment with phenobarbital but not with 3-methylcholanthrene, nor with other chemicals. The degree of benzo[a]pyrene activation on mutagenicity testing was significantly elevated by treatment with 3-methylcholanthrene and phenobarbital but was reduced with dexamethasone. Immunoinhibition of these activities and Western blotting of hepatic microsomes using antibodies against cytochrome P-450 isozymes suggested that the isozymes responsible for benzo[a]pyrene metabolism in Syrian hamsters belong to the CYP1A, CYP2A, and CYP3A families, a result that differs from observations in rats.

Suppression of Na+ influx in ATP-depleted hepatocytes

The change of cytosolic Na+ concentration was examined in ATP-depleted cultured rat hepatocytes. Cytosolic Na+ concentration was increased in the hepatocytes where ATP was more than 95% depleted by chemical hypoxia with 2.5 mM KCN and 0.5 mM iodoacetate as reported in J. Biol. Chem. 266 20062-20069 (1991). However, the effect was due to the iodoacetate-treatment rather than the ATP-depletion, because the Na+ concentration was increased not by KCN but by iodoacetate, while KCN decreased ATP more than iodoacetate. Although oligomycin (10 micrograms/ml) decreased ATP to less than 5%, it did not increase cytosolic Na+ concentration much within 50 min. Ouabain (1.0 mM), an inhibitor of Na(+)-K+ pump, increased the Na+ concentration, and the increase was suppressed by oligomycin These results suggest that Na+ influx was suppressed in ATP-depleted hepatocytes.

A new cytochrome P450 form belonging to the CYP2D in dog liver microsomes: purification, cDNA cloning, and enzyme characterization

A new form of cytochrome P450 (P450 DUT2) was purified from untreated male dog liver microsomes. The final preparation (a specific content of 19.1 nmol P450/mg protein) showed a single band with an apparent monomeric molecular weight of 50,000 on sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, but was further separated into two apoproteins (P450 DUT2a and P450 DUT2b) by reverse-phase HPLC. Both proteins had identical NH2-terminal amino acid sequences, but the first three amino acids of P450 DUT2b were truncated in P450 DUT2a. Purified P450 DUT2 showed 5 to 18 times higher catalytic activities than did hepatic microsomes toward desipramine, metoprolol, and dextromethorphan. These activities in dog liver microsomes were strongly inhibited by anti-P450 DUT2-IgG. A 1.7-kilobase pair cDNA (cDUT2) encoding a male dog liver P450 of 500 amino acid residues (molecular weight 56,400) was isolated and sequenced. The first 35 NH2-terminal amino acid sequence of P450 DUT2b coincided with the deduced amino acid sequence of cDUT2 at 2-36. The deduced total amino acid sequence of cDUT2 shared high similarity with the reported 2D forms (with 2D6, 74.6%; 2D14, 75.4%; 2D1, 65.4%; and 2D9, 63.6%). Moreover, the expressed P450 DUT2 in COS-7 cells had catalytic activities similar to those of purified P450 DUT2. Therefore, this paper is the first report about dog CYP2D. Furthermore, Northern and Western blot analyses indicated that the expressed levels of mRNA and protein were almost equal between male and female dogs. Western blot analysis suggested that P450 DUT2 is a constitutive and major (approximately 20% of the total P450) form, indicating that the 2D subfamily P450 in dog liver is quite unique from CYP2D members of other species.

Selective and competitive antagonism by suramin of ATP-stimulated catecholamine-secretion from PC12 phaeochromocytoma cells

1. Suramin, a putative P2-antagonist, (10 to 300 microM) inhibited the adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP)-stimulated secretion of [3H]-noradrenaline or endogenous dopamine from phaeochromocytoma PC12 cells in a concentration-dependent manner. Suramin (300 microM) did not affect the dopamine-secretion stimulated by high K+ or nicotine. 2. Suramin shifted the concentration-response curve for ATP to the right. The antagonism was competitive with a pA2 value of 4.52. 3. ATP also stimulated an increase in intracellular Ca2+ concentration as determined by fura-2 methods. Suramin antagonized this effect over the same concentration range that antagonized the ATP-stimulated catecholamine secretion. 4. These results suggest that suramin can be used as a selective and competitive antagonist of ATP in experiments concerning mechanisms of catecholamine-secretion.

Modulation by alkyl p-hydroxybenzoates of voltage- and ligand-gated channels in peripheral neuronal cells

Effects of alkyl p-hydroxybenzoates (APHBs), which are used as preservatives, on ion channels were investigated in rat pheochromocytoma PC12 cells. Methyl p-hydroxybenzoate (MPHB; 300 microM) and butyl p-hydroxybenzoate (BPHB; 300 microM) inhibited Ba2+ current passing through Ca2+ channels, and facilitated the inactivation of the Ba2+ current. K+ current obtained with a depolarizing voltage-step was also suppressed by 300 microM MPHB or 300 microM BPHB. The extent of the suppression of the K+ current was not affected by extracellular Cd2+, suggesting that the suppression of the K+ current is not a secondary effect arising from the Ca2+ channel inhibition. An inward current activated by acetylcholine (ACh; 100 microM) was abolished by 300 microM BPHB, and it was partially blocked by 300 microM MPHB. In contrast to the ACh-activated current, an inward current activated by ATP (30 microM) was markedly potentiated by 300 microM BPHB. The results suggest that APHBs exert significant effects on the voltage- and ligand-gated channels. The significance of these channel modifications were discussed in relation to reported effects of APHBs, including induction of minor irritation.

Endothelin-3 activates a voltage-gated Ca channel via a pertussis toxin sensitive mechanism leading to dopamine release from PC12 cells

We have investigated the role of endothelin-3 (ET-3) in the stimulus-secretion coupling mechanism in rat pheochromocytoma PC12 cells. ET-3 (10-100 nM) evoked both dopamine (DA) release and an increase in intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca]i). The ET-3-evoked DA release was partially inhibited by pretreatment with pertussis toxin (PTX; 2 ng/ml, 20 h). The release was also attenuated by the voltage-gated Ca channel (VGC) blockers Cd2+ (300 microM) or nicardipine (30 microM) and was completely abolished when external Ca2+ was removed. ET-3-evoked [Ca]i increase was attenuated by the application of these VGC blockers and by pretreatment with PTX, and was abolished by removal of extracellular Ca2+. Removal of external Na+ had no effect on either response. In light of these findings, we conclude that ET-3 evokes both DA release and an increase in [Ca]i by a mechanism which involves the activation of PTX-sensitive VGCs and the resultant influx of Ca2+.

Isolation and characterization of four cytochrome P450 isozymes from untreated and phenobarbital-treated beagle dogs

Four different forms of cytochrome P450 (P450) were purified from liver microsomes of untreated or phenobarbital (PB)-treated male beagle dogs using HPLC techniques, and designated as DUT-1, DPB-1, DPB-2 and DPB-3, respectively. Specific contents of the purified DUT-1, DPB-1, DPB-2 and DPB-3 were 13.3, 9.6, 15.6 and 12.2 nmol/mg protein, respectively. On sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE), the monomeric molecular weights of DUT-1, DPB-1, DPB-2 and DPB-3 were estimated to be 57.5, 50.0, 47.0 and 50.0 kDa, respectively. The absolute spectra of the oxidized forms indicated that they exist in the low-spin state of heme in their oxidized forms. The NH2-terminal amino acid sequence of DUT-1 was unique and different from that of any other P450 so far reported. DUT-1 was active in the omega-hydroxylation of lauric acid. The amino-terminal sequences of DPB-1, DPB-2 and DPB-3 suggested that they belong to the P450 3A, 2C and 2B gene families, respectively. DPB-3 was a major form of P450 in PB-treated dog liver microsomes. Purified DPB-1 catalyzed nifedipine and (+)- and (-)-nilvadipine oxidations, as well as testosterone 6 beta-hydroxylation in the reconstituted system. These activities were enhanced 3- to 5-fold by the addition of cytochrome b5. DPB-2 and DPB-3 catalyzed aminopyrine N-demethylation, 7-ethoxycoumarin O-deethylation, biphenyl 4-hydroxylation and testosterone 16 alpha-hydroxylation. We believe that DUT-1 is a new form not purified previously.

Inhibition of hepatocyte gap junctional communication by 25-hydroxycholesterol may be mediated through free radicals

25-Hydroxycholesterol, an autoxidation product of cholesterol, has been shown to inhibit gap junctional communication between rat hepatocytes. In this study, we investigated whether free radicals are responsible for the effect of 25-hydroxycholesterol on hepatocytes. Addition of superoxide dismutase, hydroxyl radical scavenger mannitol, or the antioxidants diphenylphenylenediamine and alpha-tocopherol markedly decreased the inhibitory effect of 25-hydroxycholesterol. However, addition of catalase or the catalase inhibitor aminotriazole did not influence the inhibition of gap junctional communication by 25-hydroxycholesterol. Data from this study suggest that free radicals other than hydrogen peroxide are involved in the mechanism of 25-hydroxycholesterol-induced inhibition of gap junctional communication.

Oxysterols inhibit gap junctional communication between rat hepatocytes in primary culture

Several oxysterols were examined for their effect on gap junctional communication between rat hepatocytes in primary culture. 25-Hydroxycholesterol, 22(S)-hydroxycholesterol and 7 beta-hydroxycholesterol, in decreasing order of potency, markedly inhibited gap junctional communication. In contrast, 7-ketocholesterol showed no inhibitory effect. The inhibition of gap junctional communication by oxysterols was not a consequence of changes in cell viability, as measured by lactate dehydrogenase leakage and 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) reduction activity. The addition of exogenous cholesterol to the culture medium did not abolish the effect of 25-hydroxycholesterol, suggesting that the capacity of oxysterols to inhibit gap junctional communication is independent of their inhibitory effect on cholesterol synthesis. We suppose that inhibition of gap junctional communication may be an early sign of oxysterols-induced toxicity on hepatocytes.

Non-competitive antagonism by hirsuteine of nicotinic receptor-mediated dopamine release from rat pheochromocytoma cells

Effects of hirsuteine, an indole alkaloid extracted from Uncaria genus, on nicotine- and high K-induced responses were investigated in rat pheochromocytoma PC12 cells. Hirsuteine (300 nM-10 microM) inhibited dopamine release evoked by 100 microM nicotine in a concentration-dependent manner. Hirsuteine did not produce a parallel shift of the concentration-response relationship curve for nicotine, but reduced maximal dopamine release. Dopamine release evoked by 60 and 155 mM KCl was also inhibited by hirsuteine, but the concentration necessary for significant inhibition was higher (more than 10 microM). Under whole cell voltage-clamp, hirsuteine reversibly inhibited inward currents activated by 100 microM nicotine. The current inhibition was slightly accelerated by hyperpolarization. The results suggest that hirsuteine non-competitively antagonizes nicotine-evoked dopamine release by blocking ion permeation through nicotinic receptor channel complexes. The blockade of Ca channels, which are activated during nicotine-evoked depolarization, may not play a major role in the antagonism.

Culture of postimplantation rat embryos in rabbit serum for the identification of the growth factor in fractionated rat serum

The growth factor for postimplantation rat embryos was investigated on the basis of the serum species-specificity in supporting embryonic development in culture. We used rabbit serum as a basal medium for the culture of head-fold stage rat embryos, and examined the effects of various fractions of rat serum on their development. In rabbit serum alone, rat embryos developed poorly. With the rat serum ultrafiltrate of molecular weight (MW) < 300,000, embryonic development improved, but not with the ultrafiltrate of MW < 100,000. With dialyzed rat serum or the globulin fraction of rat serum, embryonic development improved, but the albumin fraction had no effect. It was concluded from these results that some macromolecular growth factor for cultured postimplantation rat embryos was present in the globulin fraction of rat serum. The molecular weight of this growth factor was estimated to be between 65,000 and 300,000. Rabbit serum was considered to be suitable as a medium for the identification of this growth factor.

Effect of tetrakis-mu-3,5-diisopropylsalicylatodiaquodicopper(II) on the status of reduced glutathione in freshly isolated hepatocytes

Effects of different concentrations of tetrakis-mu-3,5-diisopropylsalicylatodiaquodicopper(II) (Cu(II)2(3,5-DIPS)4(H2O2)2) on the reduced status of glutathione (GSH), the major nonprotein thiol in tissues, were investigated using freshly isolated hepatocytes. Cu(II)2(3,5-DIPS)4 below 100 microM did not have any significant effects on either the GSH content or viability of the hepatocytes, but at 150-250 microM it decreased both parameters after 1 h of incubation. The decrease in cellular GSH was not followed by an increase in the oxidized form of GSH (GSSG) in the cell suspension. The addition of deferoxamine with Cu(II)2(3,5-DIPS)4 to the hepatocyte suspension prevented depletion in GSH content and loss of cell viability by Cu(II)2(3,5-DIPS)4. Both GSH depletion and loss of cell viability were found to be Cu(II)2(3,5-DIPS)4 dose dependent. From these results, it appears that Cu(II)2(3,5-DIPS)4 penetrated the cell membrane and acted by decreasing the GSH level by forming a copper-glutathione complex.

Dopamine receptor agonists and antagonists enhance ATP-activated currents

The effects of dopamine and related compounds on ATP-activated channels were investigated in pheochromocytoma PC12 cells. Dopamine (10 microM) enhanced an inward current activated by 100 microM ATP. A similar enhancement of the ATP-activated current was observed with apomorphine (10 microM), a non-selective dopamine receptor agonist, with (+)-SKF-38393 (10 microM), a selective dopamine D1 receptor agonist, and with (-)-quinpirole (10 microM), a selective dopamine D2 receptor agonist. Moreover, (+)-SCH-23390 (30 microM), a dopamine D1 receptor antagonist, and (-)-sulpiride (30 microM), a dopamine D2 receptor antagonist, also enhanced the ATP-activated current. The results suggest that ATP-activated channels are modulated by dopaminergic mechanisms, and that this modulation cannot be attributed to any single class of dopamine receptors.

Neurochemical and histological analysis of motor dysfunction observed in rats with methylnitrosourea-induced experimental cerebellar hypoplasia

Histological and neurochemical changes related to motor dysfunction observed in rats after neonatal treatment with nitrosoureas were examined. Neonatal rats received subcutaneous injections of methylnitrosourea (MNU: 0.125 mmol/kg, s.c.) or ethylnitrosourea (ENU: 0.25 mmol/kg, s.c.) daily at 4,5,6 and 7 days post partum, a period of cerebellar granule cell, stellate cell and basket cell formation. At 14 days and 45 days after birth, MNU-treated rats displayed a lowering in motor coordination skills measured by tests of retainment ability on a rod of 26 mm diameter, chinning-climbing ability on parallel rods or retainment ability on a rotating rod. Histological examination at 14 days after birth showed a cerebellar hypoplasia with reduced cellularity of the internal granule cell layer and a disperse disposition of Purkinje cells in the granule cell layer. Cerebellar growth and cerebellar content and concentration of DNA were remarkably reduced in the MNU-treated rat. The degree of the reduction in cerebellar content of glutamic acid paralleled the degree of the cerebellar hypoplasia at 14 and 45 days after birth. In contrast, the concentrations of gamma-aminobutyric acid, acetylcholine, 5-hydroxytryptamine and norepinephrine were significantly increased by MNU treatment. ENU treatment control did not exert any significant changes in the neurotransmitters and motor coordination. These results suggest that the motor dysfunctions observed in MNU treated rats are induced by unbalanced output activities from Purkinje cells to motor neurons.

N-nitrosodialkylamine dealkylation in reconstituted systems containing cytochrome P-450 purified from phenobarbital- and beta-naphthoflavone-treated rats

Five cytochrome P-450 forms were purified from livers of rats pretreated with phenobarbital (PB) or beta-naphthoflavone (BNF), and the oxidative dealkylation of N-nitrosodialkylamines by the reconstituted cytochrome P-450 systems was measured. PB-II (P450IIB1) showed very high N-nitrosomethybutylamine (NMBA) debutylase activity, high NMBA demethylase activity and high N-nitrosomethyl-benzylamine (NMBeA) debenzylase activity, suggesting that the increase following PB treatment in hepatic microsomal NMBA debutylation and NMBeA debenzylation was due to the induction of PB-II. BNF-H (P450IA2) showed very high NMBA debutylase and high NMBeA debenzylase activities, and BNF-L (P450IA1) showed NMBA debutylase and high NMBeA debenzylase activities. These results suggested that the increase by BNF pretreatment in hepatic microsomal NMBA debutylation was due mainly to the induction of BNF-H and in some part to that of BNF-L. PB-II also showed very high dealkylation activity of lipophilic N-nitrosodialkylamines with long alkyl moieties. On the other hand, BNF-H dealkylated N-nitrosodipropylamine (NDPA), N-nitrosomethylbutylamine (NMBA) and N-nitrosoethylbutylamine (NEBA) at higher rates than N-nitrosodibutylamine (NDBA). BNF-L dealkylated NEBA at higher rates than NMBeA and NDBA. These results reveal that substrate specificity of each cytochrome P-450 form in N-nitrosodialkylamine metabolism is different from each other and several forms of cytochrome P-450 support each N-nitrosamine dealkylase activity in mammalians.

Indium inhibits gap junctional communication between rat hepatocytes in primary culture

The effect of indium on gap junctional communication was investigated in primary cultured rat hepatocytes. Treatment of hepatocytes with indium chloride at concentrations of 100 microM to 1 mM for 2 h resulted in dose-dependent inhibition of gap junctional communication between hepatocytes. The effect of indium on hepatocytes was also evaluated using two indices for cell viability: lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) leakage and 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) reduction. Indium did not cause any increase in LDH leakage from hepatocytes at the above concentrations, but inhibition of MTT reduction was observed at concentrations above 500 microM. These results suggest that the gap junctions between hepatocytes may be vulnerable sites to indium toxicity.

Extracellular adenosine 5′-triphosphate-evoked glutamate release in cultured hippocampal neurons

Characteristics of extracellular ATP-evoked electrical responses in rat hippocampal neurons were investigated. Extracellular ATP (100 microM) induced a rapid depolarization followed by repetitive firings of spikes in these cells under whole-cell current-clamp. In whole-cell voltage-clamp experiments, ATP activated 2 types of inward currents that were inhibited by P2-purinoceptor blocker suramin (300 microM). One is a small (about -20 pA) sustained current which is insensitive to tetrodotoxin (TTX), and the other is a large (-100 to -300 pA) transient current which abolished in the presence of 3 microM TTX. The ATP-induced transient current was blocked by 6-cyano-7-nitro-quinoxaline-2,3-dione (CNQX; 30 microM), a non-N-methyl-D-aspartate (non-NMDA) receptor antagonist. ATP failed to induce the transient current in the cell which showed the desensitization to quisqualic acid (QA; 10 microM), a non-NMDA receptor agonist. These findings suggest that ATP directly activates small sustained currents, and indirectly induces the transient currents by evoking glutamate release.

[Studies on the teratogenic potential of p-tert-butylphenolformaldehyde resin in rats]

p-tert-Butylphenolformaldehyde resin, an adhesive, was given orally to pregnant Wistar rats by stomach intubation at the dose levels of 250, 500 and 1000 mg/kg body weight during days 7 to 17 of gestation, and the effects of the compound on dams and fetal developments were examined. No changes in general conditions, maternal body weight, food consumption, numbers of corpora lutea and implantation ratio were observed. There was no evidence of an increase in fetal death or of malformation attributable to the treatment with p-tert-butylphenolformaldehyde resin in any of dose levels examined. It was concluded that p-tert-butylphenolformaldehyde resin has no teratogenic effect in rats.

Inhibition of ion channels by hirsutine in rat pheochromocytoma cells

Effects of hirsutine, an alkaloid that produces a potent ganglion blocking effect, were investigated using rat pheochromocytoma PC12 cells. Hirsutine (1 to 10 microM) suppressed dopamine-release evoked by 100 microM nicotine. In voltage-clamped cells, hirsutine (1 to 10 microM) inhibited the inward current activated by 100 microM nicotine. Hirsutine was equipotent to hexamethonium in blocking the nicotine-activated current. The voltage-dependency of the nicotine activated current was not modified by hirsutine. Effects of hirustine on other ion channels were tested to determine its selectivity. Inward currents mediated through ATP-activated channels were scarcely affected by hirsutine (up to 100 microM). However, hirustine (10 microM) inhibited Ba currents passing through Ca channels and K currents activated by depolarizing voltage steps. The results suggest that hirsutine potently blocks nicotinic receptor-channels, but hirsutine also inhibits voltage-gated Ca and K channels. Roles of the inhibition of these channels in the pharmacological effects of hirsutine were discussed.

Inhibitory action of peripheral-type benzodiazepines on dopamine release from PC12 pheochromocytoma cells

Characteristics of the benzodiazepine inhibition of dopamine (DA) release in PC12 cells were investigated. Diazepam inhibited DA release evoked by high concentrations of extracellular K+ in a dose-dependent manner (IC50, 10 microM). Ro 5-4864 [7-chloro-1,3-dihydro-1-methyl-5-(p-chlorophenyl)-2H-1,4-benzodiazepine- 2-one], a peripheral-type benzodiazepine, also inhibited DA release effectively. PK 11195 [1-(2-chlorophenyl)-N-methyl-N-(1-methyl-propyl)-3-isoquinoline carboxamide], a benzodiazepine generally considered a peripheral-type benzodiazepine receptor antagonist, did not antagonize the inhibition induced by diazepam, but rather inhibited DA release itself. On the other hand, the central-type benzodiazepines, clonazepam and Ro 15-1788 (ethyl-8-fluoro-5,6-dihydro-5-methyl-6-oxo-4H-imidazo[1,5a] [1,4]benzodiazepine-3-carboxylate) did not affect the DA release. Diazepam, Ro 5-4864 and PK 11195 also inhibited a Ba(++)-current carried by voltage-gated Ca++ channels, and diazepam suppressed an increase in intracellular Ca++ evoked by 80 mM extracellular K+ as measured by the fura-2 method. These results suggest that the inhibitory action of diazepam and other benzodiazepines on DA release from PC12 cells may be mediated through one type of peripheral-type benzodiazepine receptors which are coupled to voltage-gated Ca++ channels and that these receptors may not necessarily be the same as those in other tissues.

Inhibition of Ca-channels by diazepam compared with that by nicardipine in pheochromocytoma PC12 cells

The effects of diazepam on voltage-gated Ca channels were studied in PC12 pheochromocytoma cells using whole-cell voltage-clamp techniques. An inward current activated by a depolarizing voltage step to +10 mV from a holding potential of -60 mV in 10.8 mM Ba was larger than that activated in 10.8 mM Ca. The Ba current was completely blocked by a low concentration of Cd (30 microM) and was also sensitive to nicardipine (100 nM to 10 microM). Diazepam (1-100 microM) inhibited the Ba current in a concentration-dependent manner. Neither diazepam nor nicardipine affected the current-voltage relationship or the dependence on holding potentials of the Ba current. Both slightly accelerated the inactivation time course of the Ba current. When diazepam was applied to the cells in combination with nicardipine, the observed inhibition agreed with a value predicted assuming independent blockade by diazepam and by nicardipine. These results suggest that diazepam inhibits Ca channels in a manner similar to nicardipine, but that the binding sites for diazepam are different from those for nicardipine.

Antagonism by reactive blue 2 but not by brilliant blue G of extracellular ATP-evoked responses in PC12 phaeochromocytoma cells

1. The effects of reactive blue 2 and brilliant blue G, which have been shown to block extracellular ATP-evoked responses, were investigated to discover whether these compounds act as P2-purinoceptor antagonists in PC12 phaeochromocytoma cells. 2. Reactive blue 2 (10 to 100 microM) suppressed the ATP-stimulated dopamine secretion from PC12 cells in a dose-dependent manner. The concentration-response curve for ATP was shifted to the right and the maximal response was decreased by reactive blue (30 and 100 microM). Brilliant blue G (up to 100 microM) did not significantly affect the secretion. 3. Reactive blue 2 (10 to 100 microM) suppressed the ATP-activated inward current recorded from the voltage-clamped cells in a concentration-dependent manner. Brilliant blue G (up to 100 microM) did not affect the current. 4. The results suggest that reactive blue 2 but not brilliant blue G is a P2-purinoceptor antagonist in PC12 cells. The purinoceptors in these cells may be the same type as those involved in ATP-evoked smooth muscle relaxation, judging from the antagonism by reactive blue 2.

Effects of ATP antagonists on purinoceptor-operated inward currents in rat phaeochromocytoma cells

The effects of suramin, reactive blue 2 (RB2) and d-tubocurarine (d-TC) were investigated electrophysiologically to elucidate the mechanisms underlying their antagonism of P2 purinoceptor-mediated responses. All three compounds inhibited an adenosine triphosphate (ATP)-activated inward current in rat phaeochromocytoma PC12 cells in a concentration-dependent manner. The order of potency was RB2 greater than suramin greater than d-TC. The inhibition induced by suramin or RB2 was reversible, whereas that induced by d-TC was not reversed after a 5-min rinse. The inactivation of the ATP-activated current was accelerated by d-TC but not by suramin or RB2. RB2 administered simultaneously with ATP exerted much weaker inhibition compared to that induced by prior administration, suggesting that RB2 is a slowly acting antagonist. This was not observed for suramin or d-TC. Suramin and RB2 caused a parallel shift in the concentration/response curve for the ATP-activated current. With d-TC the maximal response of ATP was decreased but the concentration producing half-maximal response was unchanged. The voltage dependency of the ATP-activated current showed less inward rectification in the presence of d-TC. Suramin or RB2 did not affect the voltage dependency. These results suggest that suramin and RB2 reversibly block binding of ATP to receptors, whereas d-TC blocks ion permeability through the ATP-activated channel.

Comparison of adenosine triphosphate- and nicotine-activated inward currents in rat phaeochromocytoma cells

1. The adenosine triphosphate (ATP)-activated inward current was compared to the nicotine-activated inward current in nerve growth factor (NGF)-treated rat phaeochromocytoma PC12 cells. 2. Both ATP and nicotine activated an inward current at negative holding potentials. The concentration of ATP necessary to activate the inward current was about 10-fold higher than that of nicotine; the EC50 was 20.5 microM for ATP and 2.4 microM for nicotine. The maximal responses induced by ATP and nicotine were almost identical in the same cells. The current-voltage relationship for the ATP-activated current was very similar to that for the nicotine-activated current, and both currents reversed around 0 mV in a physiological saline. 3. The ATP-activated current and the nicotine-activated current were not additive; the current activated by a combined administration of ATP (100 microM) and nicotine (10 microM) was only about 20% larger than the current activated by either ATP or nicotine alone. Nicotine (100 microM) did not increase the current activated by 1 microM-ATP. 4. ATP could activate an inward current in the cells even after desensitization to nicotine had developed. 5. Hexamethonium (100 microM) selectively blocked the nicotine-activated current whereas suramin (100 microM), a purinoceptor antagonist, selectively blocked the ATP-activated current. 6. Ionic selectivity was studied by changing compositions of extracellular solutions. When external Na+ was replaced with Cs+, both ATP and nicotine activated inward currents. However, with an extracellular solution containing Tris or glucosamine as a major cation, only ATP, not nicotine, activated an inward current. 7. ATP- and nicotine-activated currents were also recorded from cells bathed in a solution containing 1.8 mM-Ca2+ as the only external cation, suggesting that both pathways are Ca2+ permeable. 8. The results suggest that the ATP-sensitive ionic pathway is not independent of the nicotine-sensitive pathway in these cells. Our working hypothesis is that ATP and nicotine activate the same channels but the binding sites and the open-states of the channels are different between these two agonists.

[Studies on the uptake of 8-anilino-1-naphthalene sulfonate by rat freshly isolated renal cells]

The addition of 8-anilino-1-naphthalene sulfonate (ANS) into rat renal cell suspension caused a rapid increase in fluorescence (Ex. 400 nm, Em. 470 nm). The increase in fluorescence seemed to be composed of two phases. When the cells were disrupted by ultrasonic wave, the fast phase (0-ca 20 sec) increased and the slow phase (after ca 40 sec) disappeared. The rate of increase in the slow phase was dependent on the concentration of ANS and on the ambient temperature. A double reciprocal plot of the rate and the concentration exhibited straight line. It was decreased by bromophenol blue and rose bengal but not by other organic anions like p-aminohippuric acid and several metabolic inhibitors. It seemed that the uptake of ANS into the renal cell is mediated by a carrier which is different from that for p-aminohippuric acid.

[Studies on the teratogenic potential of 2,2'-isobutylidene-bis (4,6-dimethylphenol) in rats]

2,2'-Isobutylidene-bis(4,6-dimethylphenol), an antioxidant, was given orally to pregnant Wistar rats by stomach intubation at the dose levels of 5, 15 or 45 mg/kg body weight during days 7 to 17 of gestation, and the effects of the compound on dams and fetal developments were examined. In the dams at the two higher dose levels of 15 and 45 mg/kg, toxic signs (tremor, startle reflex, salivation, involuntary urination, wheezing and nostril discharge) were observed. Moreover, at the highest dose level, additional toxic signs (lacrimation and vaginal bleeding), suppression in maternal body weight gain and food consumption were observed. However, there was no evidence of an increase in malformations attributable to the treatment with 2,2'-isobutylidene-bis(4,6-dimethyl-phenol) in any of the treated groups. It was concluded that 2,2'-isobutylidene-bis(4,6-dimethylphenol) has no teratogenic effect in rats, though toxic signs were observed in treated dams of the 15 and 45 mg/kg groups.

ATP-activated single-channel currents recorded from cell-free patches of pheochromocytoma PC12 cells

Single-channel recordings were made using cell-free membrane patches (outside-out configuration) isolated from pheochromocytoma PC12 cells. ATP (50 microM) activated single channel currents in the isolated patches and the currents inactivated with a half-decay time of about 5s. The single channel conductance was about 13 pS in external solution with 140 mM Na. The amplitudes of the single-channel currents were decreased when external Ca was increased from 1.8 to 16.2 mM, suggesting that Ca blocks ion permeation through the channel. These properties of single-channel currents may underlie those of the macroscopic current.

Reversible and selective antagonism by suramin of ATP-activated inward current in PC12 phaeochromocytoma cells

1. The effects of suramin on an adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP)-activated inward current were investigated in PC12 phaeochromocytoma cells with whole-cell voltage-clamp techniques. 2. Suramin (30 to 300 microM) inhibited the ATP-activated current in a dose-dependent manner. The inhibitory effects were reversible and competitive. 3. Suramin also suppressed the current activated by adenosine 5'-O-(3-thiotriphosphate) but did not affect the current activated by nicotine. Suramin did not affect the suppression of a K current induced by methacholine. 4. The results suggest that suramin antagonizes the ATP-receptor-operated membrane current reversibly and selectively.

An ATP-activated conductance in pheochromocytoma cells and its suppression by extracellular calcium

1. ATP-activated inward current in PC12 pheochromocytoma cells was characterized using the whole-cell voltage-clamp technique. 2. ATP (100 microM) applied extracellular elicited an inward rectifying current with a reversal potential of about +7 mV. The current was desensitized in seconds in spite of continued presence of ATP. 3. A comparison was made of the ability of ATP and its analogues. The order of potency in activating the inward current was ATP greater than ATP gamma S greater than ADP; AMP, adenosine and alpha, beta-methylene ATP were inactive at concentrations up to mM. 4. The ATP-activated current was also observed when external Na+ and Ca2+ were replaced with K+, TEA, Tris or glucosamine. The order of ion selectivity was Na+ greater than K+ greater than TEA not equal to Tris greater than glucosamine. 5. The ATP-activated current was also recorded in extracellular solutions containing Ca2+ as the only external cation. The amplitude increased as the concentration of Ca2+ was increased in the range between 1.8 and 16.2 mM. However, the current amplitude decreased at higher Ca2+ concentrations and the current was not recorded in 110 mM-Ca2+ solution. 6. In the presence of 140 mM-Na+ in the external solution, the current amplitude also decreased as the external Ca2+ concentration was increased (from 1.8 to 16.2 mM). 7. The results indicate that Ca2+ as well as monovalent cations permeate through the ATP-sensitive pathway and that Ca2+ blocks ion permeation, including its own permeation through the pathway. This regulation by extracellular Ca2+ is different to the ATP-activated current in smooth muscle cells.

Neurokinin A suppresses a voltage-gated K+ current in smooth muscle cells from rat vas deferens

The effects of neurokinin A (NKA) on freshly isolated smooth muscle cells from the rat vas deferens were investigated electrophysiologically. NKA (10(-7) M) prolonged the duration of action potentials without affecting resting potentials. Under voltage-clamp conditions, NKA (10(-7) M) suppressed an outward K+ current activated by depolarizing voltage steps. Substance P (SP, 10(-7) M) did not affect the K+ current, suggesting that NKA is more potent in suppressing the K+ current than SP is, as is also true for the contractions of smooth muscles of the rat vas deferens. The suppression of the K+ conductance now reported may contribute to NKA-induced smooth muscle contraction.

Loss of viability after disulfiram treatment without preceding depletion of intracellular GSH

Effects of disulfiram (DSF) on freshly isolated hepatocytes were examined. Its effects on the cellular reduced form of glutathione (GSH) were triphasic; GSH decreased instantly after the addition of DSF, returned to subnormal levels within 30 min, and then declined gradually. The initial decrease in GSH after DSF treatment and the subsequent recovery of GSH were accompanied by an increase and decrease in the oxidized form of glutathione (GSSG), respectively. Decreases in cell viability brought about by 0.4 mM of DSF were correlated with the later gradual decrease in GSH. The loss of viability by DSF treatment seemed to appear when the initial GSH levels became lower than approximately 5 nmole/10(6) cells. Hepatocyte toxicity of DSF was potentiated by diethylmaleate (GSH depletor) and inhibited by N-acetylcysteine (GSH biosynthesis precursor). 1,3-bis(2-chloroethyl)-1-nitrosourea (BCNU), an inhibitor of GSH reductase, inhibited the GSH recovery and potentiated the toxicity. Respiration of hepatocytes was also inhibited by DSF. Free sulfhydryl groups other than GSH showed similar changes to those of GSH. From these results, it seemed that DSF reacted with cellular GSH and other free sulfhydryl groups to form diethyldithiocarbamate and GSSG, GSSG was reduced back to GSH by glutathione reductase, and the decrease in the viability was dependent on the initial loss of GSH.

Difference between substance P- and acetylcholine-induced currents in mammalian smooth muscle cells

The effects of substance P (SP) and acetylcholine (ACh) on membrane currents were compared using freshly isolated smooth muscle cells from guinea-pig ileum. Both SP (100 nM) and ACh (10 microM) induced inward currents at negative holding potentials. The ACh-induced current, but not the SP-induced current, showed relaxation upon voltage-stepping. The SP-induced current was increased by hyperpolarization more negative than -50 mV whereas the ACh-induced current was decreased by hyperpolarization. The results suggest that the SP-induced inward current is elicited via an ionic pathway different from that involved with ACh-activated channels.

Aflatoxin B1-specific cytochrome P-450 isozyme (P-450-AFB) inducible by 3-methylcholanthrene in golden hamsters

Hepatic microsomes of polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB)-treated Syrian Golden hamsters possessed a higher potency toward aflatoxin B1 activation, based on the Ames test, than other animal species. This activity was induced in hamsters preferentially by treatment with 3-methylcholanthrene rather than phenobarbital. The contribution of an isozyme of cytochrome P-450 (P-450-AFB) to the activity of hamster livers for aflatoxin B1 was studied. P-450-AFB, purified from 3-methylcholanthrene-treated hamster livers, was shown to possess the highest activation of aflatoxin B1 in the Ames test. The quantification of this isozyme by a fluorometric sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) demonstrated that P-450-AFB was induced mainly in Syrian Golden hamsters but not in Chinese hamsters, or in other species. This isozyme constitutes approximately 40% of the total cytochrome P-450 of the hepatic microsomes from 3-methylcholanthrene-treated Golden hamsters but only 1% in the microsomes of phenobarbital-treated hamsters. Thus, we conclude that the high activity of Golden hamster livers towards aflatoxin B1 activation was due presumably to this distinct and unique cytochrome P-450 isozyme which was induced mainly by 3-methylcholanthrene in Golden hamsters.

[Studies on the teratogenic potential of 2,2'-methylenebis (4-methyl-6-tert-butylphenol) in rats]

2,2'-Methylenebis (4-methyl-6-tert-butylphenol), an antioxidant, was given orally to pregnant Wistar rats by stomach intubation at the dose levels of 93.5, 187 or 375 mg/kg body weight during days 7 to 17 of pregnancy, and the effects of the compound on dams and fetal developments were examined. In the dams at the two higher doses of 187 and 375 mg/kg, toxic signs such as hair fluffing and diarrhoea were observed, and their body weight gain and food consumption were suppressed. Two dams, which showed marked diarrhoea in the highest dose group, died. However, there was no evidence of fetal malformation attributable to treatment with the compound in any of the dose groups treated, although a slight increase in fetal death was found in the highest dose group. It is concluded that 2,2'-methylenebis (4-methyl-6-tert-butylphenol) has a weak lethal effect on fetal development but not a teratogenic effect in the rat.

Extracellular adenosine 5'-triphosphate-evoked norepinephrine secretion not relating to voltage-gated Ca channels in pheochromocytoma PC12 cells

Characteristics of extracellular ATP-stimulated norepinephrine (NE) secretion were investigated by the batch method in relation to membrane current measured with the whole cell voltage-clamp technique. Extracellular ATP stimulated [3H]NE secretion from PC12 cells in a concentration range from 10 microM to 1 mM. The maximal effect of ATP was about 5 times larger than that of nicotine. ATP-stimulated secretion was extracellular Ca-dependent, but it was not inhibited by the Ca-channel blockers, cadmium (300 microM) or nicardipine (10 microM). Extracellular ATP activated an inward current in PC12 cells and the peak amplitude of the current was about 5 times larger than that activated by nicotine. These findings suggest that extracellular ATP activates receptor-operated channels and causes NE secretion.

Existence of muscarinic suppression of a K current in PC-12 pheochromocytoma cells

Muscarinic influence on membrane currents of PC-12 pheochromocytoma cells were investigated with whole cell voltage-clamp methods. An outward K current was observed when depolarizing voltage steps were applied to the cells. Methacholine (MCh, 300 microM), a selective agonist for muscarinic receptors, partially suppressed the K current, and the suppression was enhanced by removal of external Ca. The effect of MCh was antagonized by a low dose (100 nM) of atropine. Nicotine (10 microM) induced an inward current in these cells but did not affect the K current activated by depolarizing voltage steps. A Ba current flowing through voltage-gated Ca channels was not changed by MCh. The results indicate the existence of a MCh-sensitive K current in PC-12 cells and suggest that the membrane currents of these cells are modulated by cholinergic agents through muscarinic mechanisms in addition to well-known nicotinic mechanisms.

Induction of cytochrome P-450c and P-450d by metyrapone in the primary culture of rat hepatocytes

The effects of metyrapone on qualitative changes in cytochrome P-450-dependent drug metabolizing activities in primary cultures of rat hepatocytes were investigated. Metyrapone apparently increased benzo(a)pyrene hydroxylation and maintained both ethoxycoumarin-O-deethylation and propoxycoumarin-O-depropylation, whereas it had little effect on methoxycoumarin-O-demethylation. Furthermore, P-450d (high spin type of P-448) as well as P-450c (low spin type of P-448) were induced by metyrapone, while P-450b and P-450e were not. In conclusion, metyrapone act as a 3-methylcholanthrene-like inducer in the primary cultures of rat hepatocytes.

[Effects of extract from a herbal drug, cnidium rhizome (senkyu), on contraction, heart rates and membrane potentials of isolated guinea pig atria]

Effects of extract from a herb, Cnidium rhizome (Senkyu), on isolated guinea pig atria were investigated pharmacologically and electrophysiologically. The methanol extract from Cnidium rhizome decreased the contraction and slightly increased the heart rates of the isolated atria. Extracts from five other herbs, such as Japanese anglica root (Toki), Peony root (Shakuyaku), Moutan bark (Botanpi), Glycyrrhiza (Kanzo), Bupleurum (Saiko), affected neither the contraction nor the heart rates. The methanol extract from Cnidium rhizome was fractionated with chloroform and water fractions. The chloroform fraction exerted potent negative inotropic and chronotropic effects in isolated atria. The contraction was attenuated by two major components in the chloroform fraction, ligustilide and senkyunolide, but the heart rates were scarcely affected by these components. The chloroform fraction induced changes in resting potentials and configurations of normal action potentials recorded in the isolated left atria: the resting potentials were depolarized, and the upstroke velocity of the action potentials decreased. Neither ligustilide nor senkyunolide exerted such effects. The upstroke velocity of action potentials recorded in partially depolarized atria was reduced by the chloroform fraction as well as ligustilide and senkyunolide. The mechanisms underlying the effects of the extract from Cnidium rhizome were discussed.

Characterization of three forms of cytochrome P-450 inducible by 3-methylcholanthrene in Golden hamster livers with special reference to aflatoxin B1 activation

Three forms of cytochrome P-450 of liver microsomes of 3-methylcholanthrene-treated Golden hamsters were purified and characterized as regards their catalytic activity toward aflatoxin B1-related hepatocarcinogenic mycotoxins. These include two major forms, designated as cytochrome P-450-AFB (P-450-I) and P-450-II, and one minor form, P-450-III. Cytochromes P-450-AFB, P-450-II, and P-450-III have their absorption maximum in the carbon monoxide-complex of the reduced form at 448.5, 447.0, and 448.0 nm, have apparent molecular weights of 56,000, 58,000, and 59,500, and are in the low spin, high spin, and low spin state, respectively. Of these, cytochrome P-450-AFB was shown to be highly active in the mutagenic activation of aflatoxin B1-related hepatocarcinogens such as sterigmatocystin and O-methylsterigmatocystin. Activation of aflatoxin B1 by hepatic microsomes of 3-methylcholanthrene-treated hamsters was inhibited almost completely by the antibody against P-450-AFB but not by the antibody against P-450-II, indicating that P-450-AFB is the major component responsible for the activation of aflatoxin B1 by hamster liver. Western blot analysis demonstrated that no protein cross-reacted with the antibody to P-450-AFB in the liver microsomes from guinea pig, rat, mouse, and house musk shrew (Suncus murinus) treated with 3-methylcholanthrene, while one or two proteins cross-reacted with the antibody to P-450-II in the liver microsomes of these animals.

Complete cDNA sequence of a major 3-methylcholanthrene-inducible cytochrome P-450 isozyme (P-450AFB) of Syrian hamsters with high activity toward aflatoxin B1

Cytochrome P-450AFB is major isozyme inducible by 3-methylcholanthrene in Syrian golden hamsters and shows high potency toward aflatoxin B1 activation. We have isolated and sequenced cDNA clones to P-450AFB by immunoscreening a hamster liver cDNA library in lambda gt11. The longest clone contains an open reading frame of 1482 nucleotides and encodes a protein of 494 amino acids with a molecular weight of 57,420. The sequence of P-450AFB shares a 73% and 65% homology with that of mouse P-450 15 alpha (IIA3) and rat P-450a (IIA1), respectively, indicating that P-450AFB is a unique gene of the P-450IIA subfamily. The apparent concentration of a mRNA species hybridizable to the clone as well as the concentration of a protein immunoreactive to P-450AFB was increased significantly by the treatment with 3-methyl-cholanthrene, which indicates that the increase in P-450AFB protein is due mainly to an elevation of the mRNA.