Testosterone Potentiation of Ionophore and ADP Induced Platelet Aggregation : Relationship to Arachidonic Acid Metabolism

The role of arachidonic acid oxygenated products in human platelet aggregation induced by the ionophore A23187 was investigated. The ionophore produced an increased release of both saturated and unsaturated fatty acids and a concomitant increased formation of TxA2 and other arachidonate products. TxA2 (and possibly other cyclo oxygenase products) appears to have a significant role in ionophore-induced aggregation only when low concentrations (<1 μM) of the ionophore are employed.

Testosterone added to rat or human platelet-rich plasma (PRP) was shown previously to potentiate platelet aggregation induced by ADP, adrenaline, collagen and arachidonic acid (1, 2). We show that testosterone also potentiates ionophore induced aggregation in washed platelets and in PRP. This potentiation was dose and time dependent and resulted from increased lipolysis and concomitant generation of TxA2 and other prostaglandin products. The testosterone potentiating effect was abolished by preincubation of the platelets with indomethacin.

Azepines and piperidines with dual norepinephrine dopamine uptake inhibition and antidepressant activity

Herein, we describe the discovery of inhibitors of norepinephrine (NET) and dopamine (DAT) transporters with reduced activity relative to serotonin transporters (SERT). Two compounds, 8b and 21a, along with nomifensine were tested in a rodent receptor occupancy study and demonstrated dose-dependent displacement of radiolabeled NET and DAT ligands. These compounds were efficacious in a rat forced swim assay (model of depression) and also had activity in rat spontaneous locomotion assay.

[¹²⁵I]YP20: a novel radioligand specific for the extracellular domain of the CRF₁ receptor

The peptide corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) binds to the CRF₁ receptor via a two-domain mechanism such that the extracellular domain (ECD) of the receptor captures the CRF's C-terminus to facilitate the binding of CRF's N-terminus to the juxta-membrane or "J"-site. Known small molecule antagonists bind to the J-site while known CRF₁ receptor peptide radioligands bind to both sites. We report here the in vitro binding properties of the first radioligand that binds exclusively to the ECD of the CRF₁ receptor. This ligand, which we named [¹²⁵I]Yamada peptide 20 ([¹²⁵I]YP20), is a radiolabeled analog of a synthetic peptide first reported by Yamada et al. (2004). We confirmed its high affinity for the [¹²⁵I]CRF binding site on the hCRF₁ receptor and also found it to potently antagonize CRF-stimulated cAMP production in hCRF₁-CHO cells. Under optimized conditions, 20 pM [¹²⁵I]YP20 reproducibly bound to hCRF₁-CHO membranes with a pharmacology consistent with binding specific to the ECD of the CRF₁ receptor. Saturation binding studies revealed the presence of a high affinity site with an estimated K(d) of ≈0.9 nM. The kinetic association of 20 pM [¹²⁵I]YP20 binding best fit to a rapid component (t(1/2)=0.69 min) and a sluggish component (t(1/2)=42 min). [¹²⁵I]YP20's specific binding was rapidly reversible with dissociation kinetics also best described by two phases (t(1/2)=0.92 min and t(1/2)=11.7 min). While [¹²⁵I]YP20's binding kinetics are complex, its high affinity and pharmacological specificity indicate that it is an excellent radioligand for probing the ECD site of the CRF₁ receptor.

Identification of multiple glutathione conjugates of 8-amino- 2-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydroisoquinoline maleate (nomifensine) in liver microsomes and hepatocyte preparations: evidence of the bioactivation of nomifensine

8-Amino-2-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydroisoquinoline maleate (nomifensine), an antidepressant drug, was withdrawn from the market because of increased incidence of hemolytic anemia, as well as kidney and liver toxicity. Although the nature of the potentially reactive metabolites formed after nomifensine metabolism remains unknown and no glutathione (GSH) adducts of these nomifensine reactive metabolites have been reported, bioactivation has been postulated as a potential mechanism for the toxicity of nomifensine. This study was conducted to probe the potential bioactivation pathways of nomifensine in human and animal hepatocytes and in liver microsomes using GSH as a trapping agent. Two types of GSH conjugates were characterized by liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry: 1) aniline oxidation followed by GSH conjugation leading to the formation of nomifensine-GSH sulfinamides (M1 and M2); and 2) arene oxidation followed by GSH conjugation yielding a range of arene C-linked GSH adducts (M3-M9). Nine GSH adducts (M1-M9) were identified in liver microsomes of humans, dogs, monkeys, and rats and in human and rat hepatocytes. In dog hepatocyte preparations, six GSH adducts (M1-M6) were identified. The GSH adducts in dog and rat liver microsomes were formed primarily through aniline and arene oxidation, respectively. Both pathways contributed significantly to the formation of the GSH adducts in human and monkey liver microsomes. The bioactivation pathways proposed here account for the formation of the observed GSH conjugates. These investigations have confirmed the aniline and the arene groups in nomifensine as potential toxicophores capable of generating reactive intermediates.

Application of fragment-based lead generation to the discovery of novel, cyclic amidine beta-secretase inhibitors with nanomolar potency, cellular activity, and high ligand efficiency

Fragment-based lead generation has led to the discovery of a novel series of cyclic amidine-based inhibitors of beta-secretase (BACE-1). Initial fragment hits with an isocytosine core having millimolar potency were identified via NMR affinity screening. Structure-guided evolution of these fragments using X-ray crystallography together with potency determination using surface plasmon resonance and functional enzyme inhibition assays afforded micromolar inhibitors. Similarity searching around the isocytosine core led to the identification of a related series of inhibitors, the dihydroisocytosines. By leveraging the knowledge of the ligand-BACE-1 recognition features generated from the isocytosines, the dihydroisocytosines were efficiently optimized to submicromolar potency. Compound 29, with an IC50 of 80 nM, a ligand efficiency of 0.37, and cellular activity of 470 nM, emerged as the lead structure for future optimization.

Application of Fragment Screening by X-ray Crystallography to the Discovery of Aminopyridines as Inhibitors of β-Secretase

Fragment-based lead discovery has been successfully applied to the aspartyl protease enzyme beta-secretase (BACE-1). Fragment hits that contained an aminopyridine motif binding to the two catalytic aspartic acid residues in the active site of the enzyme were the chemical starting points. Structure-based design approaches have led to identification of low micromolar lead compounds that retain these interactions and additionally occupy adjacent hydrophobic pockets of the active site. These leads form two subseries, for which compounds 4 (IC50 = 25 microM) and 6c (IC50 = 24 microM) are representative. In the latter series, further optimization has led to 8a (IC50 = 690 nM).

Naphtho[2,1-b][1,5] and [1,2-f][1,4]oxazocines as selective NK1 antagonists

Previously we reported on the synthesis and properties of a series of highly potent piperidinyl 2-subsituted-3-cyano-1-naphthamide NK1 antagonists that includes 3 and 4. Here we report our efforts to alleviate a troublesome atropisomeric property of those derivatives by introduction of a tethering bridge that, in addition, could be used to lock the resulting cyclic derivatives in a purported NK1 pharmacophore conformation. Using 3 as a starting point, the naphtho[2,1-b][1,5]oxazocine, 17, was found to contain the optimal ring tether size (8) for retaining NK1 activity, was more NK1 versus NK2 selective, and reduced the number of atropisomers from four to two. Cyclic derivatives 29 and 32, which exist as essentially single atropisomers in the purported pharmacophore conformation, were prepared in the closely related naphtho[1,2-f][1,4]oxazocine series as part of an effort to use mono methyl substitution of the tethering bridge as a conformation stabilizing factor. Both 29 and 32 were found to be less active as NK1 antagonists than the non-methylated parent 28 possibly due to methyl group destabilization of receptor interaction. We discuss the above findings in the context of a previously proposed NK1 pharmacophore model and present a further refinement of that model.

Structural Analysis and Optimization of NK1 Receptor Antagonists through Modulation of Atropisomer Interconversion Properties

We have previously described a series of antagonists that showed high potency and selectivity for the NK(1) receptor. However, these compounds also had the undesirable property of existing as a mixture of interconverting rotational isomers. Here we show that alteration of the 2-naphthyl substituent can modulate the rate of isomer exchange. Comparisons of the NK(1) receptor affinity for the various conformational forms has facilitated the development of a detailed NK(1) pharmacophore model.

The mechanism of gamma-secretase: multiple inhibitor binding sites for transition state analogs and small molecule inhibitors

Transition state analogs pepstatin methylester (PME) and L685458 have been shown to inhibit gamma-secretase non-competitively (Tian, G., Sobotka-Briner, C., Zysk, J., Liu, X., Birr, C., Sylvester, M. A., Edwards, P. D., Scott, C. W., and Greenberg, B. D. (2002) J. Biol. Chem. 277, 31499-31505). This unusual kinetics suggests physical separation of the sites for substrate binding and catalysis with binding of the transition state analogs to the catalytic site and not to the substrate binding site. Methods of inhibitor cross-competition kinetics and competition ligand binding were utilized to address whether non-transition state small molecule inhibitors, which also display non-competitive inhibition of gamma-secretase, inhibit the enzyme by binding to the catalytic site as well. Inhibitor cross-competition kinetics indicated competitive binding between the transition state analogs PME and L685458 and between small molecules arylsulfonamides and benzodiazepines, but non-competitive binding between the transition state analogs and the small molecule inhibitors. These results were indicative of two inhibitor binding sites, one for transition state analogs and the other for non-transition state small molecule inhibitors. The presence of two inhibitor binding sites for two different classes of inhibitors was corroborated by results from competition ligand binding using [3H]L685458 as the radioligand. Although L685458 and PME displaced the radioligand at the same concentrations as for enzyme inhibition, arylsulfonamides and benzodiazepines did not displace the radioligand at their Ki values, a result consistent with the presence of two inhibitor binding sites. These findings provide useful insights into the catalytic and regulatory mechanisms of gamma-secretase that may facilitate the design of novel gamma-secretase inhibitors.

Novel small molecule inhibitors of caspase-3 block cellular and biochemical features of apoptosis

Caspase-3 is an intracellular cysteine protease, activated as part of the apoptotic response to cell injury. Its interest as a therapeutic target has led many to pursue the development of inhibitors. To date, only one series of nonpeptidic inhibitors have been described, and these have limited selectivity within the caspase family. Here we report the properties of a series of anilinoquinazolines (AQZs) as potent small molecule inhibitors of caspase-3. The AQZs inhibit human caspase-3 with Ki values in the 90 to 800 nM range. A subset of AQZs are equipotent against caspase-6, although most lack activity against this isoform and caspase-1, -2, -7, and -8. The AQZs inhibit endogenous caspase-3 activity toward a cell permeable, exogenously added substrate in staurosporine-treated SH-SY5Y cells. The AQZs reduce biochemical and cellular features of apoptosis that are thought to be a consequence of caspase-3 activation including DNA fragmentation, TUNEL staining, and the various morphological features that define the terminal stages of apoptotic cell death. Moreover, the AQZs also inhibit apoptosis induced by nerve growth factor withdrawal from differentiated PC12 cells. Thus, the AQZs represent a new and structurally novel class of inhibitors, some of which selectively inhibit caspase-3 and will thereby allow evaluation of the role of caspase-3 activity in various cellular models of apoptosis.

Design, synthesis, and SAR of tachykinin antagonists: modulation of balance in NK(1)/NK(2) receptor antagonist activity

Through optimization of compounds based on the dual NK(1)/NK(2) antagonist ZD6021, it was found that alteration of two key regions could modulate the balance of NK(1) and NK(2) potency. Substitution of the 2-naphthalene position in analogues of ZD6021 resulted in increased NK(1) potency and thus afforded NK(1) preferential antagonists. Alterations of the piperidine region could then increase NK(2) potency to restore dual NK(1)/NK(2) selectivity. Through these efforts, three novel receptor antagonists from a single chemically related series were identified; two are dual NK(1)/NK(2) antagonists, and the third is an NK(1) preferential antagonist. In this paper, the factors affecting the balance of NK(1) and NK(2) selectivity in this series are discussed and the in vitro and in vivo properties of the novel antagonists are described.

Discovery of novel, orally active dual NK1/NK2 antagonists

Exploration of the SAR around selective NK2 antagonists, SR48968 and ZD7944, led to the discovery that naphth-1-amide analogues provide potent dual NK1 and NK2 antagonists. ZD6021 inhibited binding of [3H]-NKA or [3H]-SP to human NK1 and NK2 receptors, with high-affinity (K(i)=0.12 and 0.62nM, respectively). In functional assays ZD6021 had, at 10(-7)M, in human pulmonary artery pK(B)=8.9 and in human bronchus pK(B)=7.3, for NK1 and NK2, respectively. Oral administration of ZD6021 to guinea pigs dose-dependently attenuated ASMSP induced extravasation of plasma proteins, ED(50)=0.5mg/kg, and NK2 mediated bronchoconstriction, ED(50)=13mg/kg.

Pharmacological characterization of ZD6021: a novel, orally active antagonist of the tachykinin receptors

The tachykinins, substance P, neurokinin A, and neurokinin B, have been implicated in many diseases. The present study evaluated the pharmacological properties of a novel tachykinin antagonist ZD6021 [3-cyano-N-((2S)-2-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)-4-[4-[2-(methyl-(S)-sulfinyl)-phenyl]piperidino]butyl)-N-methyl-]-napthamide]. The affinity (K(i)) of ZD6021 for the cloned human neurokinin (NK)1, NK2, and NK3 receptors was 0.12 +/- 0.01, 0.64 +/- 0.08, and 74 +/- 13 nM, respectively. Mucin secretion by Chinese hamster ovary cells transfected with the human NK1 receptor was dose dependently inhibited by ZD6021: pIC(50) = 7.6 +/- 0.1. For NK1 and NK2 receptors, the agonist concentration-response curves using isolated tissues were displaced rightward in the presence of ZD6021: rabbit pulmonary artery, pA2 = 8.7 and 8.5; human pulmonary artery and bronchus, pKB = 8.9 +/- 0.4 and 7.5 +/- 0.2, at 10(-7) M, respectively. Senktide-induced contractions of isolated guinea pig ileum were also blocked by low concentrations of ZD6021. Oral administration of ZD6021 to guinea pigs dose dependently attenuated tracheal extravasation of plasma proteins induced by the NK1 receptor agonist Ac-[Arg6,Sar9,Met(O2)11]-SP(6-11), ED50 = 0.8 micromol/kg, and bronchoconstriction, elicited by the NK2 receptor agonist [beta-Ala8]-NKA(4-10), ED50 = 20 micromol/kg. Potency was unaffected by feeding. After oral administration of ZD6021, the time to peak activity was 150 min for the NK1 receptor and 60 min for the NK2 receptor with pharmacodynamic half-lives of 280 and 458 min, respectively. These data indicate that ZD6021 is a potent, orally active antagonist of all three tachykinin receptors. This compound may be useful for future studies of tachykinin-related pathology such as asthma.

The discovery of non-basic atrial natriuretic peptide clearance receptor antagonists. Part 1

The cyclic peptide ANP 4-23 and the linear peptide analogue AP-811 have been shown to be selective ANP-CR antagonists. Via alanine scanning and truncation studies we sought to determine which residues in these molecules were important in their binding to the clearance receptor and the relationship between these two molecules. These studies show that several modifications to these compounds are possible which improve physical properties of these molecules while retaining high affinity for the ANP-CR.

4-Alkylpiperidines related to SR-48968: potent antagonists of the neurokinin-2 (NK2) receptor

A series of 4-alkylpiperidine derivatives related to the potent neurokinin-2 (NK2) receptor antagonist SR-48968 (1) is described. Simple aliphatic derivatives were found to be poorly active, but appropriate placement of an alcohol functional group afforded compounds that were of similar activity to 1. Several representatives in this series, such as the 4-(1-hydroxy-1-ethylpropyl)piperidine (14), were found to exhibit oral activity in a model of labored abdominal breathing in guinea pigs. These results expand the latitude of substituents available in this region of this series of NK2 receptor antagonists.

Pharmacology of leukotriene receptor antagonists

Preclinical pharmacological studies have demonstrated that cysLT, receptor antagonists, such as zafirlukast, montelukast, and pobilukast, are potent and selective antagonists of cysteinyl leukotriene (cysLT) activity. In vitro, these agents compete with [3H]LTD4 for binding to cysLT, receptors present on guinea pig and human lung cell membranes. Both zafirlukast and montelukast have affinities that are approximately two times greater than that of the natural ligand, LTD4. These agents block LTD4- and LTE4-induced contractions of isolated guinea pig trachea, but do not antagonize LTC4-induced contractions, which are putatively mediated by a different LT receptor, cysLT2. The cysLT2 receptor, however, has not yet been found in human airway smooth muscle. In animal models, these drugs inhibit LTD4-, LTE4-, and antigen-induced bronchoconstriction, reduce inflammatory markers in models of pulmonary inflammation, and inhibit antigen-induced late-phase bronchoconstriction. This preclinical profile suggests that cysLT, receptor antagonists may be useful in treating inflammatory conditions of the respiratory system, such as asthma and allergic rhinitis.

Pharmacological characterization of a new class of nonpeptide neurokinin A antagonists that demonstrate species selectivity

We examined the pharmacology of ZM253,270 and two representative examples of the pyrrolopyrimidines, a new class of nonpeptide, NK-2 receptor (NK-2R) antagonists. ZM253,270 competitively inhibited [3H]NKA binding to native or cloned NK-2R from hamster urinary bladder (Ki = 2 nM), but was a weaker (48-fold) inhibitor of [3H]NKA binding to cloned human NK-2R. A similar species selectivity was observed with less potent analogs of ZM253,270. The pyrrolopyrimidines demonstrated only marginal inhibition of [3H]SP binding to NK-1R in guinea pig lung membranes (Ki > 2 microM). In hamster trachea, ZM253,270 competitively antagonized the contractile response evoked by neurokinin A (NKA, -logKB = 7.5). In human bronchus, ZM253,270 was about 90-fold less potent as a competitive antagonist of NKA. The data from ligand binding assays in cloned receptors combined with functional receptor assays in airway smooth muscles, demonstrate that the nonpeptide antagonist ZM253,270 is selective for the NK2 receptor species that are prevalent in hamster, compared with those found in human tissues.

Isolation and characterization of neurokinin A receptor cDNAs from guinea-pig lung and rabbit pulmonary artery

cDNA clones for NK-2 receptors (NK-2R) were isolated from guinea-pig lung (GPl) and rabbit pulmonary artery (Rpa) using a polymerase chain reaction based methodology. The GPl NK-2R consists of 402 amino acids and encodes a protein with a relative molecular mass of 45,097. The Rpa NK-2R consists of 384 amino acids and encodes a protein with a relative molecular mass of 43,169. The GPl and Rpa NK-2Rs share significant amino acid sequence homology amongst themselves (90.1%), as well as with human, bovine, hamster and rat NK-2 receptors. The two receptors were stably transfected into mouse erythroleukemia cells, high-speed membranes were prepared from induced cells and their pharmacological properties examined utilizing [3H]-NKA in a receptor-binding assay. [3H]NKA bound to both NK-2Rs with high affinity (KD = 2-7 nM) and saturable (Bmax = 633-9000 fmol/mg protein) manner which was inhibited by GTP analogs. Competition experiments with agonists demonstrated identical order of potency in both NK-2Rs; NKA > [Nle10]NKA(4-10) > [beta-Ala8]NKA(4-10) > > Substance P > > > Senktide. Similarly, an identical profile for both receptors was observed with selective NK-2 antagonists: SR48,968 > MEN10,376 > > R396. The rank order of antagonist affinity is consistent with that in cloned human NK-2R and the observations of NK-2 receptor pharmacology in native human, guinea pig and rabbit tissues.

Synthesis, structure-activity relationships, and pharmacological evaluation of a series of fluorinated 3-benzyl-5-indolecarboxamides: identification of 4-[[5-[((2R)-2-methyl-4,4,4-trifluorobutyl)carbamoyl]-1-methyl indol- 3-yl]methyl]-3-methoxy-N-[(2-methylphenyl)sulfonyl]benzamide, a potent, orally active antagonist of leukotrienes D4 and E4

The continued exploration of a series of 3-(arylmethyl)-1H-indole-5-carboxamides by the introduction of fluorinated amide substituents has resulted in the discovery of 4-[[5-[((2R)-2-methyl-4,4,4-trifluorobutyl)carbamoyl]-1-methyli ndol- 3-yl]methyl]-3-methoxy-N-[(2-methyl-phenyl)sulfonyl]benzamide (38p, ZENECA ZD3523), which has been chosen for clinical evaluation. This compound exhibited a Ki of 0.42 nM for displacement of [3H]LTD4 on guinea pig lung membranes, a pKB of 10.13 +/- 0.14 versus LTE4 on guinea pig trachea, and an oral ED50 of 1.14 mumol/kg opposite LTD4-induced bronchoconstriction in guinea pigs. The R enantiomer was found to be modestly more potent than the S enantiomer 38o. Modification of the amide substituent to afford achiral compounds was unsuccessful in achieving comparable levels of activity. Profiling of 38p opposite a variety of functional assays has demonstrated the selectivity of this compound as a leukotriene receptor antagonist. The enantioselective synthesis of 38p, which employed a diastereoselective alkylation of (4R,5S)-3-(1-oxo-4,4,4-trifluorobutyl)-4-methyl-5-phenyl-2-oxazoli dinone (27) as the key step to establish the chirality of the amide substituent, provided an efficient route for generating 38p in > 99% enantiomeric purity.

Isolation and pharmacological characterization of a hamster urinary bladder neurokinin A receptor cDNA

Functional cDNA clones for hamster neurokinin-2 receptor (NK-2R) were isolated from hamster urinary bladder using a polymerase chain reaction-based methodology. The hamster NK-2R consists of 384 amino acids with a relative molecular weight of 43,418. Hamster NK-2R shares significant amino acid sequence homology with other tachykinin receptors, particularly with rat, bovine, and human NK-2R (94.3, 84.4, and 86.5%, respectively). To examine the pharmacology of cloned hamster NK-2R, we transfected mouse erythroleukemia cells with this receptor, prepared high speed membranes, and studied the receptor properties utilizing the ligand [4,5-3H-Leu9]NKA in a receptor-binding assay. For pharmacological comparison, we also transfected the human NK-2R into mouse erythroleukemia cells. [3H]NKA bound to hamster NK-2R receptor in a protein-dependent, high affinity (Kd1 = 4.14 +/- 0.31 nM), saturable (Bmax1 = 679 +/- 26 fmol/mg of protein), and highly specific manner (89 +/- 2%). A smaller population (10% density) of lower affinity receptors (Kd2 = 150 +/- 92 nM), was also observed in competition experiments. [3H]NKA bound to the human receptor with significantly higher affinity and overall greater receptor density (Kd1 = 0.37 +/- 0.11 nM, Bmax1 = 234 +/- 175 fmol/mg of protein; Kd2 = 9.0 +/- 2 nM, Bmax2 = 1989 + 990 fmol/mg of protein). [3H]NKA binding to both hamster and human receptors was enhanced greatly by divalent cations, whereas GTP analogs weakly inhibited binding to hamster receptor, but potently inhibited binding to the human receptor. Competition experiments with agonists demonstrated binding to high and low affinity states of NK-2 receptors, with identical order of potency in hamster or human NK-2R; NKA > [Nle10]NKA(4-10) > [beta-Ala8]NKA(4-10) >> substance P >>> Senktide. However, remarkable differences were observed in studies with selective NK-2 antagonists (hamster, SR48,968 > L659,877 > R396 >> MEN10,376 versus human, SR48,968 > MEN10,376 > L659,877 > R396). The rank order of antagonist affinity is consistent with the observations of NK-2 receptor pharmacology in the native tissues.

Characterization of bradykinin receptors in guinea pig gall bladder

Specific binding of [3H]bradykinin (BK) to guinea pig gall bladder (GPGB) membranes was protein dependent, rapid (Kon = 0.067 min-1) with high affinity (Kd = 0.45 +/- 0.02; n = 3), saturable (Bmax = 546 +/- 56 fmol/mg of protein) and showed no cooperativity (nH = 1.19 +/- 0.08). A BK B2 receptor type was indicated by the rank order of potency for inhibition of binding by B2 antagonists, [(D)Arg-[Hyp3,Thi5,(D)Tic7-Oic8]-bradykinin (HOE140) > (D)Arg-[Hyp3,(D)HypE(transpropyl)7-Oic8]-bradykinin (NPC17731) > (D)Arg-[Hyp3,Thi5, (D)Tic7-Tic8]-bradykinin (NPC16731) > (D)Arg-[Hyp3,(D)Phe7]-bradykinin (NPC567)] and agonists (BK = kallidin = Tyr(Me)8-BK > Tyr8-BK,> Hyp4-kallidin) as well as inactivity of the B1 agonist des(Arg9)-BK. Nonhydrolyzable GTP analogs (GTP-gamma-S and guanylyl-5'-imido-diphosphate) produced 80% inhibition of specific binding suggesting receptor coupling to guanine nucleotide-binding proteins. BK increased polyphosphoinositide hydrolysis in chopped GPGB in a concentration-dependent manner (0.01-300 microM; EC50 = 414 +/- 171 nM; n = 3-9 tissues/concentration). HOE140 and NPC16731, inhibited BK-induced polyphosphoinositide hydrolysis but only the latter appeared competitive (pKb 8.09 +/- 0.19, n = 3). U73122, an inhibitor of phospholipase C pathway, also inhibited BK-induced turnover in GPGB (IC50 = 46.9 +/- 17.3 nM). BK produced a concentration-related contraction of isolated strips of GPGB. Indomethacin significantly decreased both the potency and efficacy of BK whereas thiorphan, a neutral endopeptidase inhibitor, and/or captopril, an angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor, enhanced potency.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Pharmacological characterization of cloned human NK-2 (neurokinin A) receptor expressed in a baculovirus/Sf-21 insect cell system

Using the novel ligand [4,5-3H-Leu9]neurokinin A ([4,5-3H-Leu9] NKA) in a receptor binding assay, we characterized the pharmacology of a cloned neurokinin NK-2 receptor from human lung (hNK-2R), expressed in baculovirus-infected Sf-21 insect cells. Functional hNK-2R cDNA clones were isolated from human lung using a polymerase chain reaction-based methodology. hNK-2R was cloned into pAcYM1, a vector designed to couple expression to the polyhedrin promoter, and the recombinant baculovirus was isolated and used to infect Sf-21 insect cells. hNK-2R expression levels were monitored by Northern blots and 125-I-NKA binding assays. Isolates demonstrating the highest specific binding of 125-I-NKA were grown and membrane preparations from high-speed centrifugations were prepared from both hNK-2R-expressing and wild-type virus-infected cells. [3H]NKA bound in a protein-dependent, saturable (Bmax = 820 +/- 167 fmol/mg of protein), and highly specific (88 +/- 5%) manner to hNK-2R, but not to membranes from cells infected with wild-type virus (14 +/- 8%, 7 +/- 10 fmol/mg of protein). [3H]NKA binding was rapid (k1 = 0.085 nM-1 x min-1) and reversible (t1/2 = 4-5 min). Equilibrium binding experiments demonstrated binding to a mixture of receptors in high and low affinity states (Kd1 = 2.28 +/- 0.26 nM and Kd2 = 266 +/- 91 nM). Binding to hNK-2R was greatly enhanced (400%-600%) by Ca2+ and Mg2+ (EC50 values of 30 microM and 140 microM, respectively), whereas guanosine-5'-O-(3'-thio)triphosphate and guanosine-5'-(beta, gamma-imido)diphosphate were inhibitory. Competition experiments with agonists also demonstrated binding to high and low affinity states, with the following order of potency: NKA > [Nle10]NKA(4-10) > [beta-Ala8]NKA(4-10) >> substance P; Senktide and the NK-1 antagonist CP96,345 (10 microM) did not inhibit binding. Inhibition of binding by selective NK-2 antagonists was consistent with a single affinity state and demonstrated the following order of affinity: SR48,968 >> MEN10,376 > L659,877 > R396. These data suggest that infection of Sf-21 cells with baculovirus expression vector harboring the cDNA of hNK-2R resulted in expression of high affinity, G protein-coupled hNK-2R, with pharmacological selectivity compatible with the NK-2A receptor subtype.

Substituted 3-(phenylmethyl)-1H-indole-5-carboxamides and 1-(phenylmethyl)indole-6-carboxamides as potent, selective, orally active antagonists of the peptidoleukotrienes

Substituted indole-5-carboxamides and indole-6-carboxamides have been found to be potent and selective antagonists of the peptidoleukotrienes. Initial derivatives of these series (4-[[5-[(cyclopentylmethyl)carbamoyl]-1-methylindol-3-yl] methyl]-3-methoxy-N-[(2-methylphenyl)sulfonyl]benzamide (5a) and 4-[[6-[(cyclopentylmethyl)carbamoyl]-3-methylindol-1-yl] methyl]-3-methoxy-N-[(2-methylphenyl)sulfonyl]benzamide (6a), respectively), when compared to the corresponding indole amides (e.g. 28 and 29), were found to be approximately 10-fold less potent in vitro and substantially less active when administered orally to guinea pigs. Efforts to improve the potency of the title series by variation of the amide, indole, or sulfonamide substituents led to compounds of comparable in vitro potency to ICI 204,219, but of somewhat lower oral activity. A trend which suggested that more lipophilic transposed amides were needed to increase oral activity was exploited with some success and has led to the discovery of 5q (4-[[5-[(2-ethylbutyl)-carbamoyl]-1-ethylindol-3-yl]methyl]- 3- methoxy-N-[(2-methylphenyl)sulfonyl]benzamide), a transposed amide with subnanomolar affinity for the leukotriene receptor and an oral ED50 of 5 mg/kg in a model of asthma in guinea pigs. In this model, ICI 204,219 was active at 0.4 mg/kg. The absolute bioavailability of 5q has been found to be 28% in the rat, as compared to 68% for ICI 204,219, with significant levels of 5q observed in the blood of rats up to 24 h postdose.

Pharmacologic characterization of the novel ligand [4,5-3H-Leu9]neurokinin-A binding to NK-2 receptors on hamster urinary bladder membranes

We synthesized a novel ligand [4,5-3H-Leu9]-Neurokinin A (3H-NKA, S.A 117-144 Ci/mmol), and evaluated its binding to hamster urinary bladder membranes (HUBM). The ligand bound to HUBM in a highly-specific (94 +/- 4%) and protein-dependent manner. Binding was rapid (k1 = 0.037 nM-1*min-1) and saturable (Bmax = 1210 +/- 177 fmol/mg protein), to a single population of high-affinity sites (KD = 2.41 +/- 0.15 nM, nH = 0.99 +/- 0.02). Binding was inhibited by non-hydrolyzable GTP analogs. Competition experiments with HUBM demonstrated the following rank order of potency: NKA > Kassinin > [beta-Ala8]-NKA(4-10) > [Nle10]-NKA(4-10) = Eledoisin = NKB > Physaelamin > Substance P. The selective NK-1 and NK-3 ligands, [Sar9-Met (O2)11]-SP, (+/-) CP96,345 and Senktide respectively, did not inhibit binding at 10 microM, whereas, the selective NK-2 antagonists: (+/-) SR-48,968 >> L-659,877 > R396 >> MEN-10,207 > MEN-10,376, inhibited binding in a competitive manner. In contrast, the low specific binding (< 30%) detected in guinea pig lung membranes, was not inhibited by selective NK-2 ligands. Over 30 ligands (0.1-10 microM) from other receptor classes, were not inhibitory. The data suggest that this new ligand binds with high-affinity and selectivity to homogeneous population of NK-2 receptors on HUBM but not on lung membranes, and is a suitable ligand to study NK-2 receptors.

1,3,6-trisubstituted indoles as peptidoleukotriene antagonists: benefits of a second, polar, pyrrole substituent

1,6-Substituted and 3,5-substituted indoles and indazoles containing acylamino and N-arylsulfonyl amide appendages are potent antagonists of the peptidoleukotrienes LTD4 and LTE4. A compound from the 3,5-substituted indole series, N-[4-[[5-[[(cyclopentyloxy)carbonyl]amino]-1-methylindol- 3-yl]methyl]-3-methoxybenzoyl]-2-methyl-benzenesulfonamide (ICI 204,219), is undergoing clinical evaluation for asthma. Two new elements of structural diversity were introduced to this series of antagonists. An investigation of pyrrole substituents in the 1,6-substituted indoles demonstrated that substitution at C-2 was detrimental to biological activity, but the incorporation of hydrophilic groups at C-3 was beneficial. The introduction of a propionamide moiety at C-3 enhanced activity by 1 order of magnitude; N-[4-[[6-(cyclopentylacetamido)-3-[2-(N- methylcarbamoyl)ethyl]indol-1-yl]methyl]-3-methoxy- benzoyl]benzenesulfonamide (15c) has a pKB of 10.7 at the LTD4 receptor on guinea pig trachea. Modifications of the acylamino portion of the disubstituted antagonists demonstrated that a transposition of the amide CO and NH atoms was viable. N-Cyclopentylmethyl amides in both the 1,6- and 3,5-disubstituted indole series were 1 order of magnitude less potent than the corresponding cyclopentylacetamides. In both series this potency loss could be regained by the incorporation of a propionamide substituent at either C-3 or N-1, respectively. For example, N-[4-[[6-[N-(cyclopentylmethyl)carbamoyl]-3-[2-(pyrrolidin-1 - methylbenzenesulfonamide (39c) has a pKB of 9.5.

Leukotriene D4 increases both the force of contraction and polyphosphoinositide formation in guinea-pig papillary muscle

Leukotriene D4 (LTD4) increased the force of contraction in guinea-pig papillary muscle. A rapid (less than 1 min), transient (less than 5 min) response to LTD4 (1 microM) reached 19.3 +/- 5.4% of isoproterenol maximum. A single exposure to LTD4 resulted in complete and homologous desensitization which was not influenced by indomethacin. LTD4 (0.1-3.0 microM) increased total inositol phosphates released from [3H]inositol-labeled tissue. ICI 198,615, a selective LT receptor antagonist, blocked both the increase in force of contraction and the increase in inositol phosphates by LTD4, but had no effect on the inotropic response to isoproterenol. These data support the existence of specific functional LTD4 receptors in myocardial tissue of guinea-pigs.

Binding of the novel ligand [4,5-3H-Leu10]substance P to high-affinity NK-1 receptors on guinea pig lung membranes: modulation by GTP analogs and sulfhydryl modifying agents

A novel ligand, [4,5-3H-Leu10]substance P ([3H]SP), with high specific activity (137 Ci/mmole) was utilized to investigate the properties of NK (neurokinin)-1 receptors on guinea pig lung membranes (GPLM) and compared them to NK-1 receptors on rat submaxillary glands (RSGM). In the presence of a neutral endopeptidase inhibitor, thiorphan (100 microM), [3H]SP bound with high specificity (greater than 95%), rapidly (k1 = 0.116 nM-1 x min-1) and in a reversible (k-1 = 0.012 min-1) manner to a single class of high-affinity (Kd = 0.16 nM) and saturable (Bmax = 256 fmol/mg protein) receptors. High specific binding with higher density (5-fold) was also detected in RSGM, albeit with a lower affinity (Kd = 1.36 nM). Guanyl-5'-yl-imidodiphosphate and guanosine-5'-O-3-thiotriphosphate inhibited binding to GPLM (and RSGM) in a concentration-related manner. In GPLM, this effect was mediated by a reduction in affinity, mainly via enhancement of ligand dissociation rates and appearance of a lower affinity state (Kd = 3.4 nM). Preincubation of GPLM with sulfhydryl modifying agents (p-chloromercuriphenyl sulfonic acid and N-ethylmaleimide) reduced receptor density and affinity in a time- and concentration-dependent manner. Competition experiments with tachykinins and analogs illustrated a rank order of potency of: SP greater than or equal to [Sar9,Met(O2)11]SP greater than SP-methyl ester greater than or equal to physalaemin greater than SP(6-11) much greater than kassinin greater than neurokinin A = eledoisin much greater than neurokinin B greater than Nle10-NKA(4-10), clearly demonstrating that these receptors are of NK-1 type. Moreover, analysis of over 30 peptide and non-peptide hormones and antagonists demonstrated exquisite selectivity (greater than 10,000-fold) towards NK-1-selective agonists (vs. other ligands. A highly significant (P less than .005) linear correlation (r = 0.924) exists between agonist affinities in GPLM and RSGM. Combined, the data suggest that [3H]SP labels a nearly homogeneous population of high-affinity, G-protein coupled NK-1 receptors on GPLM and RSGM, with very high degree of selectivity.

Evidence for leukotriene D4 receptors in guinea pig left atria

The effects of peptidoleukotrienes (LTs) on electrically driven guinea pig left atria (GPLA) were investigated. LTD4 produced a positive inotropic response; however, rapid desensitization required the construction of noncumulative dose-response curves to naive tissues. The maximal inotropic response to LTD4 was 24 +/- 3% of isoproterenol and the EC50 = 267 +/- 77 nM. The functional response was corroborated by the demonstration of specific and rapid [3H]LTD4 binding to GPLA membranes with low affinity (Kd = 212 +/- 80.2 nM), in a saturable (Bmax = 20 +/- 1.1 pmol/mg protein) manner. In tissues pretreated with acivicin, which inhibits conversion of LTC4 to LTD4, the response to LTC4, but not LTD4, was abolished. Selectivity towards LTD4 was demonstrated by the inability of propranolol, prazosin, atropine, pyrilamine, capsaicin or indomethacin (all tested at 1 microM) to alter the functional response to LTD4. Similarly, none of the tested compounds (100 microMs) was inhibitory in the binding assay. Structurally diverse LTD4 antagonists SKF102922 (pKb = 6.42) and ICI 198.615 (pKb = 8.74) were able to inhibit the functional response as well as [3H]LTD4 binding to GPLA membranes. The calcium channel antagonist, verapamil, inhibited the functional response but did not alter [3H]LTD4 binding. These data support the existence of specific LTD4 receptors in GPLA which evoke a modest, rapidly desensitized, increase in the force of myocardial contraction.

Modulation of affinity and density of LTB4 receptors on guinea pig lung membranes by divalent cations and guanine nucleotides

We investigated the mechanism by which guanine nucleotides and divalent cations modulate the affinity and apparent density of high-affinity receptors for Leukotriene B4 (LTB4) on guinea pig lung membranes (GPLM). Divalent cations (Mg2+ = Ca2+ greater than Mn2+) stimulated, whereas EDTA inhibited (IC50 = 0.31 +/- 0.08 mM) binding of [3H]LTB4. Saturation analysis demonstrated that omission of divalent cations caused a two-fold reduction in apparent site density, (B max = 297 +/- 24 fmol/mg protein vs. 149 +/- 21 fmol/mg protein, P less than 0.01, for control and EDTA-treated respectively), but no significant change in receptor affinity (KD = 0.67 +/- 0.16 nM and 1.01 +/- 0.19 nM, P greater than 0.05). Competition experiments with LTB4 and the low-affinity (Ki = 165 nM) competitive LTB4-antagonist U75302, also demonstrated that EDTA caused a significant reduction (1.7 and 3.6-fold, P less than 0.05 and P less than 0.01, respectively), in affinity to both ligands. In the same experiments, the the guanine nucleotide analog GppNHp also reduced the affinity for LTB4 and U75302, similar to that observed with EDTA, suggesting that removal (Mg2+), or addition (GppNHp), of allosteric modulators of G-protein(s), causes reduction in receptor affinity. Saturation experiments also demonstrated that GppNHp, or GTP(gamma S), caused a significant reduction (40-50%) in receptor density. A larger reduction in affinity for U75302 (3- to 3.6-fold) than for LTB4 (1.7-fold) was induced by EDTA as well as GTP analogs.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Modulation of ligand binding to leukotriene B4 receptors on guinea pig lung membranes by sulfhydryl modifying reagents

We investigated the mechanism and modulation of 3H-labeled leukotriene B4 (LTB4) binding to guinea pig lung membranes. [3H] LTB4 bound specifically and rapidly (Kobs = 0.06 +/- 0.006 min-1) to high affinity (Kd = 0.63 +/- 0.06 nM) and saturable (Bmax = 224 +/- 16 fmol/mg) sites without cooperativity (nH = 1.05). Bound ligand was partially (70%) dissociated with excess LTB4 or the selective antagonist U-75,302. Complete dissociation could be achieved with either LTB4 or U-75,302 in combination with 10 microM GTP gamma S. A series of structural analogs and selective antagonists inhibited binding in a competitive manner with the following order: LTB4 much greater than 20-(OH)-LTB4 greater than LTB5 greater than LTB-dimethylamide = U-75,302 greater than 12(R)-hydroxy-eicosatetraenoic acid greater than 5(S),12(S)-dihydroxy,6-trans,8-cis,10-trans,14-cis-ETE greater than 12(S)-hydroxy-eicosatetraenoic acid much greater than trans-LTB4 isomers. 5(S)-hydroxy-eicosatetraenoic acid, prostaglandins, peptide-leukotrienes and platelet-activating factor (at 10 microM each) did not inhibit, providing evidence that [3H]LTB4 bound to specific receptors on guinea pig lung membranes. N-Ethylmaleimide (NEM) and p-chloromercuriphenyl sulfonic acid (PCMP) inhibited binding (IC50 = 144 +/- 66 and 4.6 +/- 1.0 microM, respectively) in an irreversible manner, as evident by an inability to overcome the inhibition by extensive washing.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Evolution of a series of peptidoleukotriene antagonists: synthesis and structure/activity relationships of 1,3,5-substituted indoles and indazoles

1,3,5-Substituted indoles and indazoles have been studied as receptor antagonists of the peptidoleukotrienes. The best of these compounds generally had a methyl group at the N1 position, a [(cyclopentyloxy)carbonyl]amino or 2-cyclopentylacetamido or N'-cyclopentylureido group at the C-5 position, and an arylsulfonyl amide group as part of the acidic chain at the C-3 position of the ring. Such compounds had in vitro dissociation constants (KB) in the range 10(-9) - 10(-11) M on guinea pig trachea against LTE4 as agonist and inhibition constants (Ki) less than or equal to 10(-9) M on guinea pig parenchymal membranes against [3H]LTD4. A number of compounds were orally effective at doses less than or equal to 1 mg/kg in blocking LTD4-induced "dyspnea" in guinea pigs. Compound 45 [N-[4-[[5-[[(cyclopentyloxy)carbonyl]-amino]-1-methylindol-3- yl]methyl]-3-methoxybenzoyl]-2-methylbenzenesulfonamide, ICI 204,219; pKB = 9.67 +/- 0.13, Ki = 0.3 +/- 0.03 nM, po ED50 = 0.3 mg/kg] is currently under clinical investigation for asthma. In the indole series, certain alkylsulfonyl amides possessing a 3-cyanobenzyl substituent at the N-1 position (60, 61) were produced that had KB less than or equal to 10(-9) M on guinea pig trachea.

Pharmacologic characterization of the contractile activity of peptide leukotrienes in guinea-pig pulmonary artery

The actions of the peptide leukotrienes (LT) LTC4, LTD4 and LTE4 and phenylephrine (PE) were studied in isolated left branches of the guinea-pig pulmonary artery (GPPA). Indomethacin 5 x 10(-6) M enhanced both the potency and maximal response of all agonists, but the effect on LTD4 and LTE4 was larger. The influence of indomethacin suggests the release of an endogenous vasodilating cyclooxygenase product in GPPA. In the presence of indomethacin the rank-order of potency was LTC4 greater than LTD4 greater than LTE4 greater than or equal to PE with respective pD2 values of 7.65, 7.39, 6.35 and 6.26. All further studies were carried out in the presence of 5 x 10(-6) M indomethacin. Removal of the endothelium further increased both potency (greater than 3-fold) and the maximal response of all agonists tested, indicating that a non-cyclooxygenase endothelium-dependent relaxing factor may be present in GPPA. In separate studies, GPPA was demonstrated capable of metabolizing 3H-LTC4 to 3H-LTD4 by an L-serine borate inhibitable gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase. In contrast, relatively little formation of 3H-LTE4 was apparent either from 3H-LTC4 or 3H-LTD4. The LTD4-selective antagonists, LY 171,883 and ICI 198,615 had -log molar KB values of 6.07 +/- 0.14 and 9.38 +/- 0.32, respectively, against LTD4 in the absence of endothelium. The ability of LY 171,883 to antagonize LTC4 was eliminated in the presence of 45 mM serine borate in endothelium denuded tissues. LT receptors in GPPA appear to be heterogeneous and similar to guinea pig airway receptors.

The preclinical pharmacology of ICI 204,219. A peptide leukotriene antagonist

ICI 204,219 (4-(5-cyclopentyloxycarbonylamino-1-methylindol-3-ylmethy l)-3- methoxy-N-o-tolylsulfonylbenzamide) was designed as a peptide leukotriene (LT) antagonist. The compound is a competitive antagonist of LTD4- and LTE4-induced contraction of guinea pig lung tracheal and parenchymal strips with an apparent negative log molar dissociation constant (KB) of approximately 9.6. ICI 204,219 did not antagonize LTC4-induced contractions of guinea pig trachea when the metabolism of LTC4 to LTD4 and, subsequently, to LTE4 was inhibited. The compound inhibited the binding of [3H]LTD4, [3H]LTE4, and [3H]ICI 198,615 (a potent LT antagonist from a different heterocyclic series) to guinea pig lung parenchymal membranes in a competitive manner, and also inhibited [3H]ICI 198,615 binding to human lung parenchymal membranes. ICI 204,219 did not bind to a variety of other receptors when evaluated at concentrations 1,000- to 10,000-fold higher than the apparent KB value for peptide LT receptors. When administered orally, intravenously, or by aerosol, the compound provided dose-related antagonism of the airway effects of aerosol LTD4 in conscious guinea pigs. ED50 values and pharmacodynamic t1/2 (min) for oral, intravenous and aerosol routes of administration were, respectively: 0.52 mumol/kg, greater than 816 min; 0.046 mumol/kg, 85 min; 5.1 x 10(-6) M, 109 min. ICI 204,219 also produced dose-related inhibition of the effects of LTC4 (aerosol or intravenous administration) on pulmonary mechanics in anesthetized guinea pigs when administered orally, intraduodenally, intravenously, or by aerosol. The compound also reversed bronchospasm produced by LTs. Aerosol ovalbumin antigen-induced bronchospasm in guinea pigs was both inhibited and reversed by ICI 204,219. Lastly, the compound inhibited LTD4-induced increases in cutaneous vascular permeability in guinea pigs, being 1,006- and 679-fold more potent than the first generation LT antagonists LY 171,883 and FPL 55712, respectively. ICI 204,219 is a potent, selective, orally active LT antagonist currently undergoing clinical trials.

Specific binding of 3H-ICI 198,615, a potent LTD4 antagonist, to guinea pig cardiac ventricular membranes

Peptido-leukotrienes (LTs) elicit myocardial depression in several mammalian species, and radioligand binding assays with 3H-LTC4 and 3H-LTD4 have provided evidence of putative receptor sites on guinea pig cardiac ventricular membranes (GPCVM). Our objective was to characterize specific binding of 3H-ICI 198,615, a potent and selective LTD4 antagonist, to the 155,000 X g pellet of GPCVM. 3H-ICI 198,615 (0.01-3.8 nM) showed high specific binding (85-90% of total), which was protein dependent, saturable (Bmax = 4914 +/- 706 fmol/mg protein, n = 3), of high affinity (Kd = 4.3 +/- 0.8 nM, n = 3) and without cooperativity. Equilibrium binding was achieved by 20 minutes and could be rapidly reversed by addition of excess unlabeled ICI 198,615 or FPL55712. Competition studies with 3H-ICI 198,615 against several LTD4 antagonists produced an order of potency: ICI 198,615 much greater than SKF102922 greater than FPL55712 greater than or equal to LY171883. Addition of divalent cations caused a concentration dependent decrease in specific binding apparently due to a reduction in affinity. Binding was not influenced by the guanine nucleotide analogs GTP gamma S and Gpp(NH)p, EDTA, or a multitude of diverse non-LT receptor agonists and antagonists. These data provide evidence supporting the existence of specific and high affinity binding sites for 3H-ICI 198,615 in GPCVM.

Assessment of leukotriene D4 receptor antagonists

Both [3H]LTD4 and [3H]ICI 198,615 bind selectively and with high affinity to LTD4 receptors on guinea pig and human lung membranes. Binding is inhibited by selective LTD4 antagonists. However there may be some advantages for preferring one over the other, which is largely due to the specific experimental design. For example, due to the apparent higher affinity of agonists in the [3H]LTD4 binding assay, one can use this ligand to measure competition by agonists, partial agonists, and to determine the stereoselectivity of LTD4 analogs. The disadvantages are susceptibility to oxidation, double-bond isomerization under acidic condition, metabolism by membrane aminopeptidase, and requirement for optimization of "agonist binding conditions" that may limit the use of this ligand in different tissues (i.e., ileum or brain). [3H]ICI 198,615 does not suffer from these disadvantages and allows the direct determination of potency for structurally diverse antagonists without the necessity to optimize the assay for agonist binding. An additional advantage is the ability to distinguish between agonists and antagonists at the receptor binding level, since only agonists inhibition curves (against [3H]ICI 198,615) are shifted to lower affinity by stable GTP analogs. However, one has to bear in mind that although these binding assays are highly efficient, rapid, and possess high capacity to test antagonist potency and mechanism, they do not provide broad pharmacological information as do functional receptor assays that utilize viable tissues.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Inhibition by REV-5901 of leukotriene release from guinea-pig and human lung tissue in vitro

The 5-lipoxygenase inhibitor REV-5901 [alpha-pentyl-3-(2-quinolinylmethoxy)benzene-methanol] was evaluated for effects on mediator release in vitro from fragmented guinea-pig and human lung. In guinea-pig lung, REV-5901 inhibited the antigen-induced release of immunoreactive leukotriene D4 (iLTD4) with an IC50 of 9.6 +/- 2.9 microM and immunoreactive leukotriene B4 (iLTB4) with an IC50 of 13.5 +/- 2.2 microM. REV-5901 also inhibited the calcium ionophore-induced release of immunoreactive leukotrienes from human lung in vitro with IC50 values of 11.7 +/- 2.2 MicroM versus peptide leukotrienes and 10.0 +/- 1.1 microM versus iLTB4. The inhibition of release of iLTD4 and iLTB4 with similar IC50 values suggests that REV-5901 acts by inhibiting 5-lipoxygenase in this system. At concentrations as high as 50 microM, REV-5901 did not inhibit the release of thromboxane B2 (TxB2), 6-keto-prostaglandin-F1 alpha (6-keto-PGF1 alpha), or histamine from either lung. The lack of effect on TxB2 and 6-keto-PGF1 alpha indicates that REV-5901 did not inhibit phospholipase A2, cyclooxygenase, or thromboxane synthetase. Inhibition of leukotriene release by REV-5901 could not be reversed by washing. Among various 5-lipoxygenase inhibitors, the order of potency for inhibition of iLTD4 release from guinea-pig lung was AA-861 greater than REV-5901 greater than phenidone greater than nafazatrom greater than NDGA greater than BW755C. These findings suggest that REV-5901 is a selective and relatively potent inhibitor of leukotriene release from lung tissue in vitro.

Guanyl-5'-yl-lmidodiphosphate regulation of ligand binding to LTD4 receptors on guinea pig lung membranes

We investigated the mechanism of guanyl-5'-yl-imidodiphosphate (GppNHp) regulation of peptidoleukotrienes (LTs) and LT-antagonists binding to LTD4 receptors on guinea pig lung membranes (GPLMs). In saturation experiments, [3H]LTD4 saturable (maximum binding = 943 +/- 39 fmol/mg of protein) binding to GPLM was significantly (P less than .01) inhibited by GppNHp (60 nM, maximum binding = 446 +/- 113 fmol/mg of protein) in a concentration-dependent manner. No significant change in the affinity (Kd = 0.29 +/- 0.02 nM vs. 0.43 +/- 0.12 nM for control and treated GPLM, respectively) for [3H]LTD4 was observed. The binding affinity for the selective LTD4 antagonist ICI 198,615 (Ki = 0.13 +/- 0.04 nM) as determined by competition against [3H]LTD4, was not changed by GppNHp. Saturation analysis of [3H]ICI 198,615 binding confirmed that GppNHp did not change the apparent affinity or site-density for this ligand. In competition experiments against [3H]-ICI 198,615, GppNHp (1 microM) caused a significant (P less than .01) rightward shift of the inhibition by agonists (94-, 50- and 8-fold shifts for LTD4, LTE4 and YM-17690, respectively). In contrast, inhibition of [3H]ICI 198,615 by four LTD4 antagonists (ICI 198,615, 4-[5-cyclopentylcarbonylamino-1-[3-cyanobenzyl] indol-3-yl-methyl]3-methoxybenzoic acid, 4-[5-cyclopentylcarbonylamino-3-chloroindol-1-y-methyl]3-met hoxybenzoic acid and FPL55712) was not affected by GppNHp. Taken together the data suggest that LTD4 receptors are coupled to a G-protein that modulates the affinity of agonists but not antagonists binding.

Inhibition of antigen-induced contraction of guinea pig trachea by ICI 198,615

We examined the extent of peptide leukotrienes involvement in ovalbumin-induced contraction of guinea pig trachea isolated from animals passively sensitized with antiovalbumin antibodies. Antigen challenge resulted in a concentration-dependent (EC50 = 10 +/- 3 ng/ml, X +/- S.E.M., n = 6) and prolonged (greater than 60 min) contraction of guinea pig trachea. The maximal contractile response was directly proportional to the quantity of sensitizing antibodies. The maximal response (but not EC50 for ovalbumin) was significantly (P less than 0.01) enhanced by indomethacin (20%), only slightly (10%) inhibited by the histamine H1-antagonist pyrilamine and unaffected by the platelet-activating factor (PAF) antagonist CV-3988. The potent and selective leukotriene antagonist ICI 198,615 partially (45%) inhibited the antigen-induced contraction in a concentration-related fashion (1-300 nM). Even at concentrations that abolish responses to leukotrienes, ICI 198,615 did not further inhibit the response, nor could other leukotriene antagonists (i.e. LY 171883 or FPL 55712) inhibit more than 50% of this response. In contrast, the 5-lipoxygenase inhibitors AA-861 and REV 5901, also a leukotriene antagonist, abolished the contractile response. Taken together, the results suggest that in guinea pig trachea, leukotrienes, in combination with other lipoxygenase metabolites, mediate a major part of the response to antigen. In contrast, PAF, histamine and prostaglandins appear to play only a minor role.

Kinetic and pharmacologic analysis of [3H]leukotriene E4 binding to receptors on guinea pig lung membranes: evidence for selective binding to a subset of leukotriene D4 receptors

The specific binding of [3H]leukotriene (LT) E4 to receptors on guinea pig lung parenchymal membranes was investigated and compared to that of [3H]LTD4. [3H]LTE4 bound slower than [3H] LTD4 (k1: 0.07 +/- 0.02 nM-1.min-1 vs. 0.13 +/- 0.01 nM-1.min-1, respectively) reaching equilibrium at lower binding levels (3-fold) than [3H]LTD4. Unlike [3H]LTD4, receptor-bound [3H]LTE4 could be rapidly (k-1 = 0.22 +/- 0.04 min-1) and fully dissociated by excess of both agonists (LTD4 and LTE4) and selective LTD4/LTE4 antagonist ICI 198,615. Equilibrium saturation analysis (paired) of specific [3H]LTE4 and [3H]LTD4 binding confirmed that [3H]LTE4 possesses lower affinity (kd values: 1.17 +/- 0.14 and 0.38 +/- 0.06 nM, respectively, n = 6, P less than .01) and lower density (maximum binding values: 524 +/- 46 and 988 +/- 66 fmol/mg, n = 6, P less than .01) binding sites. Binding of [3H]LTE4 was 3 to 4-fold more sensitive to inhibition by GTP analogs than has been demonstrated previously on [3H]LTD4. Drug competition assays illustrate that inhibition of [3H]LTE4 binding by agonists displays similar selectivity of (LTD4 greater than LTE4 much greater than LTC4) and stereoselectivity (5S,6R-LTD4 much greater than R,R greater than R,S greater than S,S) to the observed inhibition of [3H]LTD4, suggesting that [3H]LTE4 binds to LTD4 receptors. Selective LTD4 antagonists inhibited [3H]LTE4 binding with a relative potency [compound 1 (ICI 198,615 analog) greater than ICI 198,615 = ICI 204,219 greater than LTD4 greater than LTE4 much greater than FPL55712 = LY171,883] comparable to that obtained against [3H]LTD4.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Biochemical and pharmacological characterization of ICI 198,615: a peptide leukotriene receptor antagonist

ICI 198,615 is one representative of a new chemical class of peptide leukotriene receptor antagonists that are the most potent and selective described to date. ICI 198,615 antagonized LTC4-, LTD4- and LTE4-induced increases in cutaneous vascular permeability in the guinea pig, with i.v. ED50 values of 0.083, 0.11 and 0.067 mumol/kg, respectively. Against LTD4, ICI 198,615 was 615 and 415 times more potent than LY 171883 and FPL 55712, respectively. L-Serine borate, an inhibitor of the metabolism of LTC4 to LTD4, did not influence the antagonism by ICI 198,615 of LTC4-induced increases in cutaneous vascular permeability. The compound both inhibited and reversed aerosol ovalbumin antigen-induced increases in pulmonary resistance in passively sensitized guinea pigs, but demonstrated little ability to inhibit or reverse ovalbumin antigen-induced decreases in dynamic lung compliance. At concentrations ranging from 10(-8) to 10(-5) M, ICI 198,615 had no significant effect on either the spontaneous or ovalbumin antigen-induced release of histamine, peptide leukotrienes, thromboxane B2 or 6-keto-prostaglandin F1 alpha from chopped guinea pig lung. At 10 microM, the compound did not inhibit 5-, 12- or 15-lipoxygenase. Finally, ICI 198,615 antagonized LTD4-induced increases in TxB2 release from chopped guinea-pig lung.

Inhibition of 3H-leukotriene D4 binding to guinea pig lung receptors by the novel leukotriene antagonist ICI 198,615

The specific binding of [3H]5(S)hydroxy-6(R)-S-cysteinylglycyl -7(E),9(E),11(Z),14(Z)-eicosatetraenoic acid ([3H]LTD4) to receptors on guinea pig lung parenchymal membranes and its inhibition by ICI 198,615, a representative example of a new class of leukotriene antagonists, was characterized by a receptor-ligand binding assay. [3H]LTD4 bound specifically and rapidly (Kon = 0.29 +/- 0.6 nM-1.min-1) reaching equilibrium within 15 min. The rate of binding was greatly inhibited in the presence of ICI 198,615. Excess LTD4 or ICI 198,615 slowly (t1/2 = 20 min) dissociated about 70% of the receptor-bound [3H]LTD4, whereas in combination with GTP analogs, both induced a rapid (t1/2 less than 5 min) and full dissociation. Equilibrium saturation analysis of [3H]LTD4 binding demonstrated a saturable (Bmax = 1014 +/- 174 fmol/mg) and high affinity (Kd = 0.43 +/- 0.09 nM) binding site. A high degree of stereoselectivity was demonstrated with inhibition of binding by the stereoisomers of LTD4: S,R much greater than R,R greater than R,S much greater than S,S. The rank order for inhibition of binding by peptide leukotriene was: LTD4 greater than 5(S)-hydroxy-6(R)-S-cysteinyl-7(E),9(E),11(Z),14(Z)-eicosatetraenoic acid much greater than 5(S)hydroxy-6(R)-S-glutathionyl-7(E),9(E),11(Z),14(Z)-eicosatetraenoic acid (potency ratios were: 1:4:590). In competition assays, ICI 198,615 competitively inhibited binding of [3H]LTD4 (Ki = 0.27 +/- 0.16 nM) and was 2300-fold and 3100-fold more potent than LY171883 or FPL55712. These data, together with results obtained previously in functional receptor assays, illustrate that this new class of leukotriene antagonists are the most potent and selective competitive antagonists of LTD4 receptors yet described.

Kinetic studies on the inactivation of 5-lipoxygenase by 5(S)-hydroperoxyeicosatetraenoic acid

The oxygenation of arachidonic acid (AA) by guinea-pig neutrophil 5-lipoxygenase terminates prematurely at a substrate utilization of only 50%. In the presence of dithiothreitol (DTT), reaction progress continues longer but still terminates prematurely, at about 70% substrate turnover. The addition of more substrate during the first 60 seconds of the initial reaction resulted in continued product formation. However, at times after 120 seconds, the addition of more AA could not produce additional product formation. Together, these results indicate a time-dependent (t1/2 = 0.5-1.0 min), irreversible loss of enzyme activity. To determine if the product 5-hydroperoxy-6,8,11,14-eicosatetraenoic acid (5-HPETE) mediates the inactivation, it was tested for its ability to irreversibly inhibit the enzyme and found to inactivate 5-lipoxygenase with Ki = 0.05 +/- 0.01 microM and ki = 1.4 +/- 0.4 min-1. DTT changed the apparent affinity of 5-HPETE (Ki = 0.33 +/- 0.09 microM) but had no effect on the rate of inactivation (ki = 1.26 +/- 0.62 min-1). In contrast, the hydroxy derivative of 5-HPETE, 5-hydroxy-6,8,11,14-eicosatetraenoic acid (5-HETE), is a reversible, time-independent inhibitor with Ki = 6.3 +/- 0.9 microM regardless of DTT. The ability of thiols to protect 5-lipoxygenase from production inactivation is due, at least in part, to a non-enzymatic reaction between DTT and 5-HPETE that converts the hydroperoxy acid to a material that can no longer inactivate the enzyme.

Kinetic mechanism of guinea pig neutrophil 5-lipoxygenase

The kinetic mechanism of guinea pig neutrophil 5-lipoxygenase was investigated using a continuous spectrophotometric assay that monitors product diene formation at 236 nm due to substrate oxygenation. Progress curves for reactions with both arachidonic acid and eicosapentaenoic acid are characterized by 1-3-min lag phases in the attainment of steady-state velocities and product inhibition, as indicated by the total cessation of the reaction prior to complete depletion of substrate. The dependence of the steady-state velocity on arachidonic acid concentration appears to follow Michaelis-Menten kinetics, with Vmax = 4.2 +/- 0.4 nmol of 5-hydroxy-6,8,11,14-eicosatetraenoic acid/min/mg of protein and Ks = 25 +/- 4 microM. The addition of Ca2+ results in an overall activation: lag phases are shortened to 10-20 s, Vmax increases to 24 +/- 2 nmol/min/mg of protein, and Ks decreases to 7.7 +/- 1.7 microM; and a change in a mechanism to one involving substrate inhibition (Kss = 13 +/- 1 microM). The observed activation by Ca2+ has a half-maximal response at around 30 microM. In the presence of Ca2+, ATP causes an increase in Vmax to 30 +/- 4 nmol/min/mg of protein without changing Ks or Kss and a reduction of the lag to less than 5 s. The half-maximal response for ATP is 31 +/- 7 microM. Oxygenation of eicosapentaenoic acid in the presence of Ca2+ and ATP occurs with similar kinetics, except for significantly less substrate inhibition: Vmax = 31 +/- 6 nmol/min/mg of protein, Ks = 7 +/- 1 microM, and Kss = 33 +/- 2 microM. This is the first report suggesting a kinetic mechanism for 5-lipoxygenase, which accounts for substrate inhibition, regulation by Ca2+, and ATP and substrate specificity.

In vitro metabolism of [3H]-peptide leukotrienes in human and ferret lung: a comparison with the guinea pig

Fragmented lung tissue prepared from human, ferret and guinea pig converted [3H]-leukotriene C4 ([3H]-LTC4) to [3H]-LTD4 and [3H]-LTE4. [3H]-LTD4 was the major product recovered from incubations with human and guinea pig lung, whereas [3H]-LTE4 was the predominant metabolite in ferret. Kinetic analysis in human lung yielded a much faster rate for the conversion of [3H]-LTC4 to [3H]-LTD4+E4 than for the conversion of [3H]-LTD4 to [3H]-LTE4. In all three species serine-borate complex blocked the metabolism of [3H]-LTC4, whereas L-cysteine blocked the metabolism of [3H]-LTD4. These studies demonstrate that guinea-pig and human lungs have a similar metabolic pattern and capacity which is dissimilar to the ferret.

Discriminative effect of gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase inhibitors on metabolism of leukotriene C4 in peritoneal cells

Leukotrienes are naturally-occurring metabolites of arachidonic acid that are formed via the 5-lipoxygenase pathway in several tissues. Rat peritoneal cells (RPC) can produce leukotrienes C4, D4 and E4 (LTC4, LTD4 and LTE4) in response to stimulation with the calcium ionophore A23187 (1,2). The mechanism of enzymatic conversion of LTC4 to LTD4 is presumed to be via the action of gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (gamma-GTPase, Figure 1) and has been demonstrated with purified enzymes from rat and porcine kidneys (3-6). We report that RPC contain gamma-GTPase-like activity that catalyzes the liberation of p-Nitroaniline (p-NA) from the chromophoric substrate gamma-glutamyl-p-nitroanilide (gamma-GpNA) in the presence of the acceptor molecules glycylglycine and L-cysteine. Furthermore, we demonstrate that under similar conditions, this preparation catalyzes the conversion of LTC4 to LTD4. Activity with gamma-GpNA is inhibited by D,L-gamma-glutamyl(o-carboxy)-phenylhydrazide (GOP) and serine-borate complex, (competitive inhibitors of kidney gamma-GTPase), and 6-diazo-5-oxo-L-norleucine (DON) and o-diazo-acetyl-L-serine (AZA), (irreversible inhibitors of kidney gamma-GTPase). In contrast, conversion of both endogenously-generated or exogenous LTC4 into LTD4 by RPC is inhibited only by serine-borate complex. These results suggest that RPC contain at least two distinct forms of gamma-GTPase; one capable of recognizing gamma-GpNA and susceptible to inhibition by all four compounds, and a second form utilizing also LTC4 as substrate, and is not inhibited by high concentrations of several "classic" gamma-GTPase inhibitors.