Novel PPARγ Agonists GI 262570, GW 7845, GW 1929, and Pioglitazone Decrease Calcium Channel Function and Myogenic Tone in Rat Mesenteric Arteries

Novel non-thiazolidinedione, tyrosine-derived peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma agonists, GI 262570, GW 7845, GW 1929, developed by GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) along with pioglitazone and nisoldipine, were studied on currents through L-type voltage-dependent calcium channels (VDCC) in freshly isolated smooth muscle cells from mesenteric arteries, and on the diameter of pressurized mesenteric arteries in vitro. Using Ba2+ (10 mmol/l) as the charge carrier through VDCC, the half-inhibition constants (IC50) for GI 262570, GW 7845, GW 1929, and pioglitazone were 2.0 +/- 0.5, 3.0 +/- 0.5, 5.0 +/- 0.7, and 10.0 +/- 0.8 mumol/l, respectively. For arterial diameter measurements the IC50 values for GI 262570, GW 7845, GW 1929, and pioglitazone were 2.4, 4.1, 6.3, and 13.9 mumol/l, respectively. Each GSK compound and pioglitazone was effective at inhibiting VDCC and relaxing pressurized arteries, suggesting that the vasodilation of resistance arteries could be explained by the inhibition of calcium entry through VDCC.

Characterisation of marrubenol, a diterpene extracted from Marrubium vulgare, as an L-type calcium channel blocker

1. The objective of the present study was to investigate the mechanism of the relaxant activity of marrubenol, a diterpenoid extracted from Marrubium vulgare. In rat aorta, marrubenol was a more potent inhibitor of the contraction evoked by 100 mM KCl (IC50: 11.8+/-0.3 microM, maximum relaxation: 93+/-0.6%) than of the contraction evoked by noradrenaline (maximum relaxation: 30+/-1.5%). 2. In fura-2-loaded aorta, marrubenol simultaneously inhibited the Ca2+ signal and the contraction evoked by 100 mM KCl, and decreased the quenching rate of fura-2 fluorescence by Mn2+. 3. Patch-clamp data obtained in aortic smooth muscle cells (A7r5) indicated that marrubenol inhibited Ba2+ inward current in a voltage-dependent manner (KD: 8+/-2 and 40+/-6 microM at holding potentials of -50 and -100 mV, respectively). 4. These results showed that marrubenol inhibits smooth muscle contraction by blocking L-type calcium channels.

Ba(2+)-induced chromaffin cell death: cytoprotection by Ca(2+) channel antagonists

Exposure of bovine adrenal medullary chromaffin cells to Ba(2+) ions (in the absence of Ca(2+) ions) caused their death, measured as lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release. The concentration of Ba(2+) required to damage the cells by about 65% ranged between 1 and 10 mM (no Ca(2+) added); the required exposure time was rather brief (15 min-4 h). The simultaneous presence of Ca(2+), Mg(2+) or Zn(2+) together with Ba(2+) (2 mM, 4 h) afforded cyprotection (60-80%). Individual selective blockers of Ca(2+) channel subtypes afforded no protection. However, combined nifedipine (3 microM) plus omega-conotoxin MVIIC (3 microM) offered full protection. Substantial protection was also seen with the "wide-spectrum" Ca(2+) channel blockers penfluridol (0.3 microM), lubeluzole (3 microM), dotarizine (3 microM), flunarizine (3 microM), and mibefradil (3 microM). This protection was due to blockade of Ba(2+) entry through Ca(2+) channels because dotarizine (10 microM) inhibited the increase in cytosolic [Ba(2+)] seen in fura-2-loaded chromaffin cells. Once Ba(2+) accumulated in the cytosol, it was not extruded by the Na(+)/Ca(2+) exchanger, as shown by the prolonged and sustained elevation of the fura-2 signal. This contrasts with the fast dissipation of the fura-2 signal generated by [Ca(2+)](i) elevation. Thus, Ba(2+) overload can cause cell death by mechanisms similar to those reported for Ca(2+) overload and might be used as a novel and convenient tool to search for new cytoprotective compounds.

Inhibition of voltage-dependent calcium channels by prostaglandin E2 in rat melanotrophs

The effects of PGE2 on voltage-dependent Ca2+ channel currents were studied in dissociated rat melanotrophs by the whole-cell configuration of the patch-clamp technique. In about 90% of melanotrophs examined, PGE2 reversibly inhibited voltage-dependent Ba2+ currents elicited by voltage steps from a holding potential of -80 to 0 mV, with an ED50 of 68 nM. The maximum inhibition of Ba2+ currents by 1 microM PGE2 (35.3%) was comparable with that by the maximally effective concentration (100 nM) of dopamine. The EP1/EP3 PGE (EP) agonists, 17PT-PGE2 and sulprostone, and the EP2/EP3 agonist, misoprostol, mimicked the inhibition by PGE2, whereas the selective EP2 agonist, butaprostol, had little effect. The inhibition by PGE2 was partially, but significantly, reduced by the selective EP1 antagonist, SC-51322. The magnitude of the PGE2-induced inhibition of Ba2+ currents was greatly reduced by pretreatment with pertussis toxin, or by a depolarizing prepulse, to +80 mV, lasting for 50 msec. Although four distinct types (N-, P/Q-, L-, and R-types) of high-threshold Ba2+ currents were observed, PGE2 (1 microM) caused significant inhibition of only P/Q- and L-type currents, which were 17.3 and 10.1%, respectively, of the total Ba2+ currents. These results suggest that PGE2 inhibits P/Q- and L-type Ca2+ channels of rat melanotrophs via EP1 and EP3 receptors, which are coupled to pertussis toxin-sensitive G proteins, and produces both voltage-sensitive and -insensitive inhibition of Ca2+ channels.

Neuropeptide Y inhibition of calcium channels in PC-12 pheochromocytoma cells

We previously demonstrated, using rat PC-12 pheochromocytoma cells differentiated to a sympathetic neuronal phenotype with nerve growth factor (NGF), that neuropeptide Y (NPY) inhibits catecholamine synthesis as well as release. Inquiry into the mechanisms of these inhibitions implicated distinct pathways involving reduction of Ca2+ influx through voltage-activated Ca2+ channels. In the present investigation the effects of NPY on whole cell Ba2+ currents were examined to obtain direct evidence supporting the mechanisms suggested by those studies. NPY was found to inhibit the voltage-activated Ba2+ current in NGF-differentiated PC-12 cells in a reversible fashion with an EC50 of 13 nM. This inhibition was pertussis toxin sensitive and resulted from NPY modulation of L- and N-type Ca2+ channels. The inhibition of L-type channels was not seen with < 1 nM free intracellular Ca2+ or when protein kinase C (PKC) was inhibited by chelerythrine or PKC-(19-31). Furthermore, the effect of NPY on L-type channels was mimicked by the PKC activator phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate. These studies demonstrate that, in addition to inhibition of N-type Ca2+ channels, in NGF-differentiated PC-12 cells NPY inhibits L-type Ca2+ channels via an intracellular Ca(2+)- and PKC-dependent pathway.

Guanine nucleotide-sensitive inhibition of L-type Ca2+ current by lysosphingolipids in RINm5F insulinoma cells

The lysosphingolipids sphingosine-1-phosphate (SPP) and sphingosylphosphorylcholine (SPPC) reportedly increase free cytosolic Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) in a variety of cell types, apparently by activating G protein-coupled plasma membrane receptors. We investigated whether and how sphingolipids modulate Ca2+ homeostasis in the insulinoma cell line RINm5F. The addition of SPPC and glucopsychosine (GPS) did not affect basal [Ca2+]i but inhibited the KCl (30 mM)-induced increase in [Ca2+]i in a pertussis toxin-insensitive and concentration-dependent manner (EC50 approximately 5 micro M). Similar inhibitory effects were observed with dihydro-SPPC and psychosine, whereas SPP and various N-acylated sphingolipids (at 10 micro M each) had little or no effect on the KCl-induced [Ca2+]i increase. Because in RINm5F cells the primary pathway for depolarization-induced [Ca2+]i increase are L-type Ca2+ channels, we studied whether sphingolipids reduce L-type Ca2+ current (ICa.L). When added to the bath, GPS and SPPC, but not SPP (10 micro M each), rapidly reduced maximal ICa.L by approximately 35%, similar to the alpha2-adrenoceptor agonist clonidine (30 micro M). However, when applied internally, GPS had no effect on ICa. L. When the electrode solution contained the stable GDP analog guanosine-5'-O-(2-thio)diphosphate (1 and 10 mM), the inhibitory effect of GPS was abolished. In conclusion, a novel cellular action of lysosphingolipids is observed in RINm5F cells (i.e., a guanine nucleotide-sensitive inhibition of L-type Ca2+ currents). The pharmacological profile of this inhibition is unique and unlike any known lysosphingolipid receptor-mediated action.

Spasmolytic activity of aurapten analogs

Seven coumaric compounds analogous to aurapten were synthesized. Their spasmolytic activity against Ba2+, acetylcholine and histamine was evaluated to investigate their structure-activity relationship. The results of the bioassay demonstrated the important roles of the cis type of double bond at C-2' and the epoxide between c-6' and 7'.

Multiple NPY receptors coexist in pre- and postsynaptic sites: inhibition of GABA release in isolated self-innervating SCN neurons

Although NPY has been shown to influence the action of many transmitters in the brain, modulation of GABA, the primary inhibitory transmitter, has not been detected with electrophysiology. Using whole-cell patch-clamp recording, we found that NPY has a large modulatory effect on GABAergic neurons of the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) that act as the circadian clock in the mammalian brain. NPY, acting at both Y1- and Y2-like receptors, reduced the frequency of spontaneous miniature inhibitory postsynaptic currents while having little effect on the postsynaptic GABA receptors, suggesting a presynaptic mechanism of NPY action. In single self-innervating neurons, application of either Y1 or Y2 agonists to the same neuron significantly inhibited the evoked autaptic GABA release. The use of single-neuron microcultures has allowed the demonstration that a single peptide, NPY, has two different receptors coded for by different genes in the same axon terminal. The Y1 and Y2 agonists also inhibited whole-cell calcium currents when applied to the same neuron, indicating a coexistence of Y1- and Y2-like receptors in the postsynaptic cell body. The self-innervating cell model we use here may be applicable generally for discriminating presynaptic versus postsynaptic actions of other neurotransmitters and neuromodulators and locating their subtype receptors.

Calcium influx in rat thalamic relay neurons through voltage-dependent calcium channels is inhibited by enkephalin

High and low voltage-activated, transient (HVA and LVA,T) Ca2+ currents are crucial in determining the characteristic thalamic firing pattern, during the oscillatory mode. The modulatory effects induced by D-ala2-D-leu5-enkephalin (DADLE) on voltage-dependent Ca2+ channels have been investigated on acutely dissociated neurons from rat ventro-basal (VB) thalamus, by means of whole cell patch-clamp technique. DADLE (400 nM) reduced HVA Ca2+ channel currents in 37 out of 44 cells tested (-53 +/- 5.3% to 0 mV test potential, n = 24,). In 50% of the cases DADLE induced an effect which was persistent at all the potentials tested, i.e. a voltage-independent one. In the remaining neurons, the inhibition partially or totally disappeared on the currents evoked at the highest potentials. DADLE was also able to inhibit LVA Ca2+ channels (-40% in five out of 12 cells). In conclusion, thalamic relay neurons present opioid receptors negatively coupled to both HVA and LVA Ca2+ channels. The presence of two inhibitory effects of DADLE on the total HVA Ca2+ channels has been observed, and they are distinguishable on the basis of their sensitivity to voltage. It is suggested that Ca2+ current modulation may play a role in the production and tuning of the rhythmic burst discharge in these neurons.

Diazepam decreases the response to the electrical stimulation of the nerve-skin preparation of the toad Caudiverbera caudiverbera

1. The effect of diazepam was examined in the nerve skin preparation of the toad Caudiverbera caudiverbera. 2. Nerve stimulation was followed immediately by a transient increase in short-circuit current (SCC) and in the potential difference (PD), which consisted of a rapid and then a slow component. 3. Diazepam concentrations from 5.0 x 10(-5)M to 5.1 x 10(-4)M caused a dose-dependent block of both components to a 30% of their control values and also reduced the stimulatory responses to noradrenaline in this preparation. 4. Diazepam antagonized the potassium blocking effect of barium. 5. These results, based on electrophysiological and pharmacological evidence, are consistent with a calcium and sodium blocking effect of diazepam on the nerve skin junction of C. caudiverbera.

Ca2+ channel inhibition by kappa opioid receptors expressed in Xenopus oocytes

Functional coupling between kappa opioid receptors and voltage-dependent Ca2+ channels was studied in the Xenopus oocyte translation system, in which specific RNAs encoding rat kappa opioid receptor, rabbit BI-2 alpha 1 subunit, and human beta subunit were co-injected. Perfusion of the oocytes with U50488H inhibited depolarization-evoked Ba2+ current (IBa) in a reversible manner, showing maximal inhibition of 25% at 1 microM (IC50 = 31 nM). The inhibitory effect of U50488H was desensitized by pre-exposure of the oocytes to U50488H and abolished by the kappa opioid antagonist nor-binaltorphimine and by overnight pretreatment with pertussis toxin. Agents affecting the activity of protein kinase A or C did not affect the U50488H-induced inhibition of IBa. These findings suggest that kappa opioid receptors inhibit the activity of neuronal Ca2+ channels via GTP-binding proteins, without the participation of protein kinase A or C.

Cesium abolishes the barium-induced pacemaker potential and current in guinea pig ventricular myocytes

INTRODUCTION

The ability of cesium to block barium-induced diastolic depolarization ("Ba-DD") and pacemaker current was tested in isolated ventricular myocytes. Because Ba-DD is due to decreasing K+ conductance and there is no I(f) at the resting potential, this approach permits verification of whether Cs+ is a specific blocker of i(f) or if it instead also blocks a K+ pacemaker current.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Guinea pig isolated ventricular myocytes were studied by a discontinuous, single electrode, voltage clamp method. During hyperpolarizing voltage clamp steps from -80 up to -140 mV in Tyrode's solution, the inward current increased as a function of voltage but did not change as a function of time (no I(f) or K+ depletion). Cesium (4 mM) reduced the current size during the hyperpolarizing steps but did not induce or unmask time-dependent currents. Barium (0.05 to 0.1 mM) induced diastolic depolarization, and, in its presence, depolarizing voltage clamp steps were followed by an outward tail current that reversed at -92.0 +/- 1.3 mV. Outward tail currents were larger at -50 mV than at the resting potential, and inward tail currents decayed more rapidly and to a larger extent during larger hyperpolarizing steps. In the presence of Ba2+, Cs+ (4 mM) had little effect on the steady-state current but markedly reduced or abolished undershoot, Ba-DD, and time-dependent tail currents at potentials both positive and negative to the resting potential. Cs+ had a smaller effect on the steady-state current-voltage (I-V) relation in the presence than in the absence of Ba2+, as part of the IK1 channels were already blocked by Ba2+ and the time-dependent changes induced by Ba2+ were not present. Both Ba2+ and Cs+ had little blocking effect on the steady-state current positive to the negative slope region of the I-V relation.

CONCLUSION

In ventricular myocytes, Cs+ abolishes the Ba(2+)-induced pacemaker current by blocking the time-dependent change in K+ conductance, not by blocking I(f). Because Cs+ can also block a decaying K+ pacemaker current, the abolition of a pacemaker current by Cs+ in other cardiac tissues cannot be taken as unequivocal proof that the blocked current is I(f).

Effects of intracellular pH on calcium currents and intracellular calcium ions in the smooth muscle of rabbit portal vein

In smooth muscle cells freshly dispersed from the rabbit portal vein, effects of intracellular pH (pHi) on Ca2+ channel currents were studied with the whole-cell clamp method using nystatin in the pipette. pHi was modified with ammonium chloride (NH4Cl) and propionate. Changes in intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) and pHi were also measured with the fluorescent indicator fura-2 and a pH-sensitive dye, respectively, together with the mechanical response in intact tissues. Intracellular alkalinization caused by an application of NH4Cl (20 mM) markedly potentiated and acidification caused by propionate (20 mM) inhibited inward Ca2+ channel currents, without much change in the kinetics. Tension development induced by 60 mM K- was inhibited by NH4Cl (20 mM) and potentiated by propionate (20 mM), whereas the peak [Ca2+]i level reached during K+ contracture was reduced in the presence of NH4Cl and increased in the presence of propionate. It was concluded that the modification of Ca2+ channel currents caused by pHi is not directly related to the effects of pHi on the mechanical response to excess K+. The direct effects of pHi on [Ca2+]i and on contractile machinery are considered to be mainly responsible for the mechanical effect of pHi.

Mechanism of Ba2+ block of M-like K channels of rod photoreceptors of tiger salamanders

IKx is a voltage-dependent K+ current in the inner segment of rod photoreceptors that shows many similarities to M-current. The depression of IKx by external Ba2+ was studied with whole-cell voltage clamp. Ba2+ reduced the conductance and voltage sensitivity of IKx tail currents and shifted the voltage range over which they appeared to more positive potentials. These effects showed different sensitivities to Ba2+: conductance was the least sensitive (K0.5 = 7.6 mM), voltage dependence intermediate (K0.5 = 2.4 mM) and voltage sensitivity the most sensitive (K0.5 = 0.2 mM). Ca2+, Co2+, Mn2+, Sr2+, and Zn2+ did not have actions comparable to Ba2+ on the voltage dependence or the voltage sensitivity of IKx tail currents. In high K+ (100 mM), the voltage range of activation of IKx was shifted 20 mV negative, as was the tau-voltage relation. High K+ did not prevent the effect of Ba2+ on conductance, but abolished its ability to affect voltage dependence and voltage sensitivity. Ba2+ also altered the apparent time-course of activation and deactivation of IKx. Low Ba2+ (0.2 mM) slowed both deactivation and activation, with most effect on deactivation; at higher concentrations (1-25 mM), deactivation and activation time courses were equally affected, and at the highest concentrations, 5 and 25 mM Ba2+, the time course became faster than control. Rapid application of 5 mM Ba2+ suggested that the time dependent currents in Ba2+ reflect in part the slow voltage-dependent block and unblock of IKx channels by Ba2+. This blocking action of Ba2+ was steeply voltage-dependent with an apparent electrical distance of 1.07. Ba2+ appears to interact with IKx channels at multiple sites. A model which assumes that Ba2+ has a voltage-independent and a voltage-dependent blocking action on open or closed IKx channels reproduced many aspects of the data; the voltage-dependent component could account for both the Ba(2+)-induced shift in voltage dependence and reduction in voltage sensitivity of IKx tail currents.

Calcium antagonist and antiperoxidant properties of some hindered phenols

1. The calcium antagonist and antioxidant activities of certain synthetic and natural phenols, related to BHA (2-t-butyl-4-methoxyphenol), were evaluated in rat ileal longitudinal muscle and in lipid peroxidation models respectively. 2. Compounds with a phenol or a phenol derivative moiety, with the exception of 2,2'-dihydroxy-3,-3'-di-t-butyl-5,5'-dimethoxydiphenyl (di-BHA), inhibited in a concentration-dependent manner the BaCl2-induced contraction of muscle incubated in a Ca(2+)-free medium. Calculated pIC50 (M) values ranged between 3.32 (probucol) and 4.96 [3,5-di-t-butyl-4-hydroxyanisole (di-t-BHA)], with intermediate activity shown by khellin < gossypol < quercetin < 3-t-butylanisole < BHA < nordihydroguaiaretic acid (NDGA) < 2,6-di-t-butyl-4-methylphenol (BHT) and papaverine. 3. The Ca2+ channel activator Bay K 8644 overcame the inhibition sustained by nifedipine, BHA and BHT, while only partially reversing that of papaverine. 4. BHA, BHT, nifedipine and papaverine also inhibited in a concentration-dependent fashion CaCl2 contractions of muscle depolarized by a K(+)-rich medium. This inhibition appeared to be inversely affected by the Ca(2+)-concentration used. 5. The inhibitory effects of nifedipine, papaverine, BHA and BHT were no longer present when muscle contraction was elicited in skinned fibres by 5 microM Ca2+ or 500 microM Ba2+, suggesting a plasmalemmal involvement of target sites in spasmolysis. 6. Comparative antioxidant capability was assessed in two peroxyl radical scavenging assay systems. These were based either on the oxidation of linoleic acid initiated by a heat labile azo compound or on lipid peroxidation of rat liver microsomes promoted by Fe2+ ions. Across both model systems,di-t-BHA, NDGA, BHT, di-BHA, BHA and quercetin ranked as the most potent inhibitors of lipid oxidation, with calculated pICso (M) values ranging between 7.4 and 5.7.7. Of the 32 compounds studied only 15 phenolic derivatives exhibited both antispasmogenic andantioxidant activity. Within this subgroup a linear and significant correlation was found betweenantispasmogenic activity and antioxidation. These bifunctional compounds were characterized by the presence of at least one hydroxyl group on the aromatic ring and a highly lipophilic area in the molecule.8. Di-t-BHA is proposed as a lead reference compound for future synthesis of new antioxidants combining two potentially useful properties in the prevention of tissue damage after ischaemia reperfusion injury.

L-AP4 inhibits calcium currents and synaptic transmission via a G-protein-coupled glutamate receptor

The AP4 (2-amino-4-phosphonobutyrate) receptor is a presynaptic glutamate receptor that inhibits transmitter release via an unknown mechanism. We examined the action of L-AP4 on voltage-dependent calcium currents and excitatory synaptic transmission on cultured olfactory bulb neurons using whole-cell voltage-clamp methods. In neurons dialyzed with GTP, L-AP4 inhibited high-threshold calcium currents evoked in barium solutions. The inhibition was irreversible in the presence of GTP-gamma-S and blocked by removing intracellular Mg2+ or by preincubation with pertussis toxin (PTX), consistent with the involvement of a PTX-sensitive G-protein. Dialysis with staurosporine or buffering of intracellular calcium to pCa less than 8 did not block the action of L-AP4, suggesting that protein phosphorylation or release of intracellular calcium stores was not involved in calcium current inhibition under these experimental conditions. PTX also blocked the L-AP4-induced inhibition of monosynaptic EPSPs evoked by intracellular stimulation of cultured mitral cells. These results suggest that the presynaptic AP4 receptor is a G-protein-coupled glutamate receptor, and that inhibition of calcium influx by a membrane-delimited action of a G-protein may account for L-AP4-induced presynaptic inhibition.

Soman reversibly decreases the duration of Ca2+ and Ba2+ action potentials in bullfrog sympathetic neurons

Soman, (pinacoloxymethyl-phosphoryl fluoride) (0.1-10 microM) an irreversible cholinesterase inhibitor, reversibly reduced the duration of calcium (Ca2+)- and barium (Ba2+) spikes without significantly affecting spike amplitude in sympathetic postganglionic neurons of the adult bullfrog (Rana catesbeiana). The soman-induced shortening of the spike duration was not prevented by pretreatment with either (+)-tubocurarine (100 microM) or hexamethonium (100 microM) and atropine (10 microM) and was also recorded from acutely-dissociated sympathetic neurons. These results suggest that soman has a direct action to decrease calcium entry through voltage-dependent channels activated during a spike. This effect may contribute to both the decrease in the duration of the spike after-hyperpolarization (AHP) and the enhanced neuronal excitability produced by soman in these neurons.

Antagonism of kinin-induced contraction of isolated rat uterus by the crude hydroalcoholic extract from Mandevilla illustris

1. The crude aqueous/alcoholic extract (CE) of Mandevilla illustris (Apocynaceae) rhizomes was analysed against contractile response elicited by bradykinin (BK), lysyl-bradykinin (L-BK), oxytocin(Ot), acetylcholine (Ach), angiotensin II (AII) and barium chloride (BaCl2) in the isolated uterus of the rat. 2. The CE of this plant (0.5-2.0 mg/ml) caused a parallel and concentration-related rightward displacement of BK and L-BK contractile responses. Schild plot revealed a linear relationship (r close to one) and yielded nominal PA2 values of 3.6 and 3.2 respectively, but the slopes were significantly different from unity. 3. However, the anti-BK action of the CE of M. illustris was not selective to kinin action, since in the same range concentration the CE also affected uterine contractile responses induced by Ot, Ach, AII and BaCl2.

Stimulatory action of Ba2+ on catecholamine biosynthesis in cultured bovine adrenal chromaffin cells: possible relation to protein kinase C

The effect of Ba2+ on the catecholamine biosynthetic activity was studied by measuring the formation of [14C]catecholamines from L-[14C]tyrosine in cultured adrenal chromaffin cells. In the absence of Ca2+, [14C]catecholamine formation was markedly stimulated by Ba2+, and this stimulation was observed in a manner dependent on its concentration. The stimulation of [14C]catecholamine formation by relatively low concentrations of Ba2+ was suppressed by polymyxin B, a typical inhibitor of Ca2+/phospholipid-dependent protein kinase (protein kinase C); and this inhibitory action of polymyxin B was attenuated by increasing the Ba2+ concentration. On the other hand, a tendency toward the enhancement of Ba2+-stimulated [14C]catecholamine formation was observed by a protein kinase C activator, 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol 13-acetate (TPA). In contrast to the acute effect of TPA, [14C]catecholamine formation stimulated by Ba2+ was reduced by long-term exposure of chromaffin cells to a high concentration of TPA, which has already been reported to cause the reduction of protein kinase C activity as a result of the down-regulation of this enzyme. These findings suggest that Ba2+ stimulates catecholamine biosynthesis, probably through its direct action on protein kinase C in adrenal chromaffin cells.

Effect of flecainide acetate on reperfusion- and barium-induced ventricular tachyarrhythmias in the isolated perfused rat heart

Flecainide acetate is a new antiarrhythmic drug which suppresses different kinds of experimental arrhythmias. We studied the efficacy of flecainide acetate on reperfusion- and barium-induced ventricular tachyarrhythmias in the isolated perfused rat heart by monitoring heart rate, coronary flow rate, left ventricular systolic pressure, dp/dtmax, and the voltage of the epicardial electrogram. Seventy-five male rats were randomized into 5 groups. In group I, after a 15 min period of stabilization, hearts were perfused by ischemic perfusion and then reperfused. In group II, flecainide acetate (10(-6) M) was given after stabilization and before ischaemic perfusion. In group III, barium chloride (10(-3) M) was given after stabilization. In group IV, flecainide acetate was given after stabilization and before barium chloride administration. In group V, acetylcholine chloride (10(-6) M) was given after stabilization and before barium chloride administration. In group I, we noted during ischemia a reduction in heart rate, coronary flow rate, left ventricular systolic pressure and dp/dtmax and an increase in the voltage of the epicardial electrogram. In group II, after administration of flecainide acetate, we observed a reduction in heart rate, left ventricular systolic pressure and dp/dtmax; during the ischaemic period there was no difference in these parameters with respect to group I. Reperfusion induced ventricular arrhythmias in 12 out of 15 hearts in group I and in only 3 out of 15 in group II (p less than 0.005). Barium induced ventricular arrhythmias in the 15 hearts studied in group III as well as in group IV. On the contrary, acetylcholine chloride in group V prevented the occurrence of barium-induced ventricular arrhythmias (p less than 0.005 vs group III and IV). Thus, flecainide acetate is able to reduce reperfusion-induced ventricular arrhythmias, but is unable to reduce barium-induced ventricular arrhythmias, presumably because of a different mechanism of these two types of arrhythmias.

The effect of BaCl2 on intestinal sugar transport in the rat in vitro

The effect of BaCl2 on galactose transport across isolated rat small intestine has been investigated. The addition of 5 mM BaCl2 or theophylline (3 mM) to the bathing solutions increased cell water free sugar accumulation and decreased mucosal to serosal sugar fluxes. However the effects of BaCl2 were smaller than those induced by theophylline. Removal of Ca2+ from the bathing solutions did not modify the response to BaCl2, though the response to theophylline was partially reduced. In the presence of 0.1 mM trifluoperazine, both theophylline and BaCl2 were without effect on sugar transport. These findings are discussed in terms of an effect of Ba2+ on intestinal smooth muscle tone.

[The anti-H1-histaminic and antimuscarinic effect of 2- and 4-[benzyl-(2-dimethylaminoethyl)amino]pyrimidine compounds]

This paper reports the synthesis of 2- and 4- [benzyl-(2-dimethylaminoethyl)amino]pyrimidine compounds and the evaluation of their inhibitory properties against histamine (H1), acetylcholine and barium chloride, on guinea pig isolated ileum. 4-[p.Methoxybenzyl-(2-dimethylaminoethyl)amino]-2-methoxy-pyrimidine (VIII) is shown to possess H1 receptor antagonist activity, with a potency similar to that observed for Tonzylamine. By contrast, a specific, although weak, antimuscarinic effect is displayed by 4-[benzyl-(2-dimethylaminoethyl)amino]-2-methoxy-5-methylthio-pyrimidine (XII).

Comparative local anaesthetic and antiarrhythmic actions of levamisole hydrochloride and lignocaine hydrochloride

Using the guinea-pig wheal preparation for determining the degree of infiltration anaesthesia, lignocaine was found to be 2 times more potent than levamisole. Lignocaine was, however, 1.27 times more toxic than levamisole in the mouse. It is suggested that levamisole could be used as a local anaesthetic agent for infiltration anaesthesia. As regards surface anaesthesia, lignocaine was 16.6 times more potent than levamisole. Levamisole would, therefore, not be of use in surface anaesthesia. Levamisole was more effective than lignocaine in protecting toads against deaths due to the minimum dose of ouabain which caused 100% mortality. The therapeutic indices for levamisole and lignocaine were 4.57 and 1.58 respectively. Unlike with lignocaine it was possible to achieve more than 50% protection with levamisole. Levamisole was, however, only marginally more effective than lignocaine in reverting to sinus rhythm, barium chloride-induced ventricular dysrhythmia in the rat. It is suggested that levamisole could have potential value as an antiarrhythmic agent.

Antagonism of picumast and ketotifen against histamine, acetylcholine, LTC4, slow-reacting substance of anaphylaxis and barium chloride in the guinea pig ileum bioassay

The antagonism of the antiallergic compounds picumast (PIC; Boehringer Mannheim) and ketotifen (K; Sandoz) against pro-allergic mediators like histamine (H), acetylcholine (ACh), SRS-A and LTC4 as well as against the unspecific spasmogen BaCl2 was compared in the bioassay of superfused guinea pig ileum. For the evaluation of an SRS-A antagonism crude SRS-A from antigen-stimulated guinea pig lung fragments in Krebs buffer was used with the addition of atropine and mepyramine. PIC (approximately 10(-6)-10(-5) mol/l) antagonized clearly all tested spasmogens in a concentration-dependent manner. Its predominant antagonism (IC30: 2-3 X 10(-6) mol/l) was against H, LTC4 and SRS-A, which are presumably important mediators of allergic reactions. ACh- or BaCl2-induced spasms were inhibited to the same extent with a 4 or 6 times higher concentration of PIC. K was approximately 20 times more potent as antagonist against H and approximately 8 times more potent against ACh, whereas the antagonism against LTC4- or BaCl2-induced spasms reached only 1/3 of that of PIC. An antagonism of PIC against SRS-A, LTC4 and H may contribute to its antiallergic activity in vivo. K showed little activity against LTC4 but could antagonize more selectively H- and ACh-mediated effects.

Electrophysiological mechanisms for the antiarrhythmic action of mexiletine on digitalis-, reperfusion- and reoxygenation-induced arrhythmias

The antiarrhythmic potency of mexiletine was evaluated on three groups of guinea-pig isolated hearts. Arrhythmias were induced (a) with digitalis intoxication, (b) with hypoxia followed by reoxygenation and (c) with ischaemia followed by reperfusion. Mexiletine 10 microM was found to be very effective against all three types of arrhythmias in all three groups. The electrophysiological effects of mexiletine were then studied on sheep cardiac Purkinje fibres manifesting oscillatory afterpotentials and triggered automaticity induced by barium or strophanthidin. Mexiletine 10 microM consistently decreased the amplitude of oscillatory afterpotentials and blocked subsequent triggered activity in sheep Purkinje fibres. In contrast, mexiletine 10 microM had no significant effect on Vmax in normal, barium- and strophanthidin-treated preparations. The results are discussed in relation to the mechanisms of antiarrhythmic action of mexiletine.

No correlation exists between antidepressant activity and the ability of 5-HT uptake inhibitors to interact with 5-HT receptors of the rat stomach fundus strip

Several 5-HT uptake inhibitors, established and potential antidepressant drugs, were tested for their ability to counteract contractions of the rat isolated stomach fundus strip induced by 5-HT and BaCl2. Of 12 inhibitors tested, only doxepine, amitriptyline, clomipramine, imipramine, Ro 11-2465 (cyan-imipramine), citalopram and fluvoxamine antagonized the contraction induced by 10(-6) M 5-HT with IC50 values below 10(-4) M. Amitriptyline, doxepine and cyproheptadine, at concentrations inhibiting the effect of 5-HT, did not antagonize the strip contractions induced by 3 X 10(-3) M BaCl2, while the remaining compounds that antagonized 5-HT-induced contractions, also antagonized--with at least a similar potency--the contractions induced by BaCl2. From among antidepressant compounds investigated, only doxepine and amitriptyline may be regarded as antagonists of the 5-HT receptor in the rat stomach strip.

[Alkyl and aryl derivatives of isoquinoline. II. Synthesis and pharmacologic activity of dialkylaminoalkyl esters of 1-chloro-3-carboxy-4-methylisoquinoline and the corresponding 4-phenyl derivative]

The synthesis of a series of dialkylaminoalkylic esters of 1-chloro-3-carboxy-4-methylisoquinoline and of 1-chloro-3-carboxy-4-phenylisoquinoline is described. The pharmacological activity of some of these compounds was studied. The morpholinoethylester of 1-chloro-3-carboxy-4-methylisoquinoline (VIIa), dimethylaminoethylester (VIIb) and diethylaminoethylester (VIIc) showed a good antispasmodic activity. 4-Phenyl-derivatives (XVa), (XVb), (XVc) were more active than analogous 4-methyl derivatives; particularly the diethylaminoethylester of 1-chloro-3-carboxy-4-phenylisoquinoline (XVc) showed an antagonist effect against spasmogens similar to that of papaverine.

Effects of disodium cromoglycate (DSCG) on the guinea pig trachea and ileum

Disodium cromoglycate (DSCG) (10(-2)M) significantly inhibits contractions induced by potassium chloride and barium chloride on guinea pig ileum and trachea. The effects of DSCG against these spasmogens are greater on the guinea pig ileum than on its trachea, which may be related with the calcium ion if we take into account that the contraction of the latter preparation seems to be less dependent on the extracellular calcium concentration than the first one. DSCG (10(-2)M) inhibits contractions induced by electrical stimulation (0.1 Hz) but the action of exogenous acetylcholine is not affected. This effect supports a neural site of action for DSCG in the ileum. DSCG (10(-2)M) also suppresses contractions induced by electrical stimulation (20 Hz) on isolated guinea pig trachea. This effect of DSCG is concentration and time dependent. The fact that DSCG inhibits contractions induced by electrical stimulation in both, guinea pig ileum and trachea as well as atropine does, constitute evidence that either an inhibition of acetylcholine release from postganglionic parasympathetic fibers or an anticholinergic effect is involved in the mode of action of DSCG. These effects can be ascribed to membrane stabilizing properties of this antiallergic drug.

[Experimental study on the action mechanism of a new bronchodilator agent, BB-1502]

The action mechanism of the bronchodilator activity of BB-1502 was studied in comparison with aminophylline. Orally administered BB-1502 did not inhibit passive cutaneous anaphylaxis in rats, an immediate allergic reaction of Type I, but strongly protected the same antigen-mediated anaphylactic asthma by the intraduodenal route, the activity being approximately 13 times more potent than that of aminophylline. BB-1502 also inhibited IgG-mediated anaphylactic asthma in guinea pigs by the oral route. Both IgE- and IgG-mediated histamine releases from rat lung were similarly inhibited by BB-1502, the potency being 2--3 times that of aminophylline. Disodium cromoglycate showed specific inhibition of the IgE-mediated reaction. BB-1502 and aminophylline showed nonspecific inhibition of the spasms of guinea pig ileum elicited by histamine, acetylcholine and BaCl2. Both compounds inhibited cyclic AMP and cyclic GMP phosphodiesterases (PDEs) derived from guinea pig organs. BB-1502 specifically inhibited the cyclic AMP PDE of lung and brain origins, while aminophylline showed no such specificity. The results of the present study suggested that the bronchodilator and anti-asthmatic actions of BB-1502 might, at least in part, be due to the regulation of cyclic nucleotide PDEs.

Kinetics of Ca2+-activated K+ channels from rabbit muscle incorporated into planar bilayers. Evidence for a Ca2+ and Ba2+ blockade

The interaction of Ca2+ and Ba2+ with a Ca2+-activated K+ channel from rabbit skeletal muscle membranes is studied in planar lipid bilayers. At [Ca2+] greater than or equal to 100 microM in the cis side (the side to which the vesicles are added) and at positive voltages, the channel kinetics consisted of bursts of activity interrupted by long periods of quiescence. We found that the reciprocal of the mean burst time increases linearly with [Ca2+], whereas the mean time for the quiescent (closed) periods is independent of [Ca2+]. The number of quiescent periods is reduced by increasing [K+]. Micromolar amounts of cis Ba2+ do not activate the channel, but induce similar "slow" closings. Also, in this case, the mean burst time is inversely proportional to the [Ba2+] and the mean closed time is independent of [Ba2+]. Raising [K+] either symmetrically or only in the trans side relieved the Ba2+ effect. trans Ba2+ also induces changes in the slow kinetics, but in millimolar amounts. These results suggest that the quiescent periods correspond to a channel blocked by a Ba ion. The voltage dependence of the cis blockade indicates that the Ba2+ binding site is past the middle of the membrane field. The similarities in the slow kinetics induced by Ca2+ and Ba2+ suggest that Ca2+ blocks the channel by binding to the same site. However, binding of Ca2+ to the site is 10(5)-fold weaker.

Antinociceptive and lethal effects of intraventricularly administered barium and strontium: antagonism by atropine sulfate or naloxone hydrochlorine

The intracerebroventricular injection of Ba++ and Sr++ produced naloxone and atropine reversible antinociception as measured by the mouse tail-flick test. Naloxone antagonized the antinociception produced by Ba++ more effectively than atropine (pA2 5.9 vs. 7.0, respectively). Naloxone was less efficient than atropine in blocking lethality. Together these results suggest different mechanisms involved in the production of antinociception and lethality by these ions.

[Ba-induced contraction of the guinea pig ileal longitudinal muscle and its inhibition by D-600, benactyzine, and papaverine]

In the guinea-pig ileal longitudinal smooth muscle, Ba caused an initial phasic contraction, followed by a gradual decrease of the contraction (tonic contraction). In the Ca-free and the Ca-free, K-rich physiological solution, Ba could also contract the longitudinal muscle, but 30 min- and 60 min-immersion of the tissue in the Ca-free solution decreased lower than 20% of control of the Ba contraction. Although the K-induced depolarization intensified the Ba contraction after the 30 min-immersion, within 10 min after the immersion in the two solutions there is no difference in the height of Ba contractions. In the normal physiological solution, Ba seems to serve the contractile protein with free Ca ions rather than itself for the Ba contraction. D-600 induced an equal inhibition on the Ba contractions in the normal physiological solution and in the Ca-free solution, and it inhibited the tonic contraction more than the phasic one. The phasic component may be due to the cellular Ca mobilized by Ba which passes through D-600-sensitive pathway, and at least part of the tonic component may utilize the extracellular Ca. Benactyzine perferentially inhibited the Ba contraction in the Ca-free solution, and it depressed the phasic component more than the tonic one. Treatment with papaverine induced an equal inhibition on the phasic and tonic components of Ba contractions and the Ba contraction in the Ca-free solution. Benactyzine may exert the main influence on the mobilization of the cellular Ca through the competition with Ca. Papaverine seems to inhibit the Ba contractions by diverse actions.

An index for comparing the inhibitory action of vasodilators

An index for comparing the inhibitory effects of vasodilators was developed to gain insight into their mechanism of action on vascular smooth muscle. Rat aortic strips were bathed in Krebs bicarbonate solution and were initially contracted to a stable tension by either phenylephrine or barium chloride. A vasodilator was then added and the remaining tension was noted; this was repeated for cumulative concentrations of vasodilator. At each concentration of vasodilator, the percent reduction in phenylephrine-induced tension (Phe) was compared to the percent reduction in barium-induced tension (Ba) and was expressed as a ratio (Phe/Ba). This ratio clearly separated verapamil and nifedipine (ratio less than 1), which block calcium influx, from papaverine (ratio = 1) which promotes calcium sequestration regardless of the source of calcium, and from dantrolene (ratio greater than 1) which interferes with intracellular calcium mobilization. This index provides a method for comparing the action of those agents presently classified as non-receptor specific vasodilators which act directly on vascular smooth muscle.

[Electrophysiologic effects of magnesium chloride on the Purkinje fibers of the dog]

In order to relate the cardiac antiarrhytmic properties of magnesium chloride (MgCl2) to its electrophysiological effects, a comparison of its actions on three different models of automaticity of the isolated Purkinje fibers of the dog, has been carried out. The spontaneous activity of the Purkinje fibers perfused with Tyrode's solution containing 2.7 mM KC1 was gradually reduced as MgC12 concentration was increased from 3 to 9 mM/1. The automaticity induced adding barium chloride (BaC12) to the perfusion solution was suppressed increasing the concentration of MgC12 in the Tyrode's solution up to 5 mM/1. Previous increases in the concentration of MgCl2 prevents the electrophysiological effects BaC12. The negative chronotropic effects of MgC12, were less evident on the adrenalin induced automaticity of the Purkinje fibers. Simultaneous addition of adrenalin and MgC12 to the perfusion media increases membrane resting potential action potential amplitude and maximun rate of depolarisation of phase O in Purkinje fibers. It is concluded that MgC12 acts by distinct electrophysiological mechanisms against the different models of cardiac automaticity studied. This findings may provide interesting perspective in respect to the therapeutic properties of magnesium chloride.

Relaxant effects of amrinone upon pulmonary smooth muscle

Amrinone, a cardiac positive inotropic agent, inhibited histamine-induced bronchoconstriction in a dose-related manner in dogs when administered intra-duodenally at doses ranging from 0.3 to 10 mg/kg. This bronchodilatory property of amrinone in vivo was confirmed in vitro: amrinone relaxed carbachol-induced contractions and it inhibited Ba2+- or histamine-induced contractions of guinea pig tracheas. When amrinone was examined for its inhibition of histamine contractions under modified Ca2+ availability, the EC25 and EC75 of amrinone were 76 and 8 times smaller, respectively, under conditions of intracellular rather than normal Ca2+ availability. The corresponding decreases for verapamil were 12,414 and 33 times. No meaningful changes in the potencies of amrinone or verapamil were seen when normal Ca2+ availability was changed to extracellular Ca2+ availability. These data suggest that verapamil, and partially amrinone, inhibit histamine-induced tracheal contractions by reducing the bioavailability of intracellular Ca2+.

Effect of cadmium on the isolated vas deferens from guinea-pig

The effects of cadmium on the responses to the agonists, K, acetylcholine, noradrenaline, Ba and Ca were investigated in the isolated vas deferens from guinea pig. 1. The low concentration of cadmium enhanced the effects of tested agonists, and the enhancement was larger in order of K, Ba, Ca, noradrenaline=acetylcholine. 2. The high concentration of cadmium inhibited the effects of tested agonists with a dose-dependent manner. The inhibitory effect was weaker against the contraction by K and was stronger against the contractions by Ba, Ca, acetylcholine and noradrenaline. 3. The inhibitory effects of cadmium against the contractions by acetylcholine and noradrenaline were almost the same. 4. On the shape of contraction by K, cadmium showed the stronger inhibition against the tonic contraction than the phasic contraction. 5. The above mentioned results were mainly discussed on the Ca mobilization and the receptor selectivity.

Reactivity of isolated digital arteries in hypertension

To see whether the increased peripheral vascular resistance seen in human hypertension is due to an altered reactivity of vascular smooth muscle, strips of digital arteries obtained post mortem from 13 hypertensive have been compared with those from 13 normotensives. The strips from the hypertensives were significantly thicker than those from the normotensives, as were those from male patients compared to females. This was reflected in a significantly greater response of the strips from the hypertensives and males to 80 mM KCl. The maximum responses to noradrenaline and 5-hydroxytryptamine, but not the concentrations required to produce 50% of the maximum responses, were significantly smaller in the strips from hypertensives than in those from normotensives. There were no significant differences between the strips from hypertensives and normotensives in either the maximum responses to angiotensin or barium chloride, or the concentration of those agonists required to produce 50% of the maximum response. It is concluded that the decreased reactivity to noradrenaline of the hypertensive vessels may be a sequel of either the increased pressure itself or increased exposure in vivo of the blood vessels from hypertensives to noradrenaline.

BaCl2-induced contractions in the guinea pig ileum longitudinal muscle: role of presynaptic release of neurotransmitters and Ca2+ translocation in the postsynaptic membrane

Early studies indicated that the baCl2-induced contractions in the guinea pig ileum longitudinal muscle strip (GPI-LMS) were, in part, neuronal in origin. However, recent studies have suggested that BaCl2-induced contractions were produced by an action directly on the smooth muscle membrane. The purpose of this study was to investigate the mechanism of the BaCl2 contractions in the GPI-LMS. Botulinum toxin (5 x 10(5) MLD/mL), which blocks the electrically induced release of acetylcholine (ACh), hemicholinium-3 (HC-3; 110 micro M), which blocks ACh synthesis, tetrodotoxin (TTX; 60 nM), which blocks Na+ channels, black widow spider venom, which depletes the presynaptic neuron of neurotransmitter, and atropine (2.9 micro M), a potent muscarinic antagonist, had no effect on the BaCl2 contractions. Densensitization of the GPI-LMS to substance P did not affect the BaCl2 contraction. In Ca2+ -free buffer the BaCl2 dose-response curve was shifted to the right. In Ca2+-free solution the time to 50% inhibiton of the contractile response to ACh (73 nM) and BaCl2 (1.16 mM) was 3.7 and 125 min, respectively. The D 600 Ic50 for ACh and BaCl2 contractions was 220 and 130 nM, respectively. In Ca2+-free buffer either EGTA (0.53 mM) or D 600 (1 micro M) were potent inhibitors of BaCl2 contractions. These results suggest that in the GPI-LMS the BaCl2 response is not mediated by a release of ACh (or substance P) because inhibitors of ACh release, synthesis, and receptors do not affect the responses. Also, the BaCl2 contraction is not due to activation of Na+ channels because TTX is without effect. The BaCl2-induced contraction appears to be mainly due to the movement of membrane bound Ca2+ through D 600 sensitive Ca2+ channels with extracellular Ca2+ and possible passage of Ba2+ ions intracellularly playing relatively minor roles.

Pharmacological studies of o-chloro-alpha-[(tert.-butylamino)methyl]benzylalcohol hydrochloride (C-78), a new bronchodilator. II. Actions on the cardio-vascular system and smooth muscle organs

The neuroradiologic evaluation and findings in 25 symptomatic patients with surgically proven progressive posttraumatic cystic myelopathy are reviewed. To follow patients with spinal cord injury, neuroradiologic algorithms were developed to confirm and define cystic myelopathy. The algorithm used in the early and mid 1970s relied on the myelographic demonstration of a large cord for suspicion of a cyst. Review of this material found that in progressively symptomatic patients 14 of 25 proven cysts were in large cords. A more recent algorithm used computed tomographic metrizamide myelography. In nine of 11 patients studied in this fashion, the cyst filled with contrast material 2–4 hr after injection, yet it did not communicate with the subarachnoid space at subsequent surgery. The origin of the cyst fluid and mechanism of cyst demonstration with metrizamide may be associated with transneural migration of fluid. This condition must be clinically suspected and radiologically confirmed for surgical treatment (cyst-shunt procedure) if neurologic preservation of function is to be maintained.

alpha-Adrenoceptor blocking properties of a new antihypertensive agent, 2-[4-(n-butyryl)-homopiperazine-1-yl]-4-amino-6,7-dimethoxyquinazoline (E-643)

Postsynaptic alpha-receptor blocking properties of E-643 were studied in vivo and in vitro and compared with these same properties of phentolamine and phenoxybenzamine. In anesthetized rats, E-643 (i.v.) attenuated pressor response to adrenaline dose-dependently and an adrenaline-reversal was seen with large doses. The in vivo alpha-adrenoreceptor blocking effect of E-643 was 3.4 times more potent than that of phentolamine. On the other hand, hypotensive action of E-643 was 9.4 times more potent than that of phentolamine. In the isolated rabbit aorta, E-643 blocked noradrenaline-induced contraction of the aorta with a parallel shift of the dose-response curve to the right. The pA2 values for E-643 and phentolamine were 8.60 and 7.65, respectively. The alpha-blocking effect of E-643 was reversible. E-643 protected alpha-receptors against irreversible inhibition by phenoxybenzamine. E-643 neither exhibited significant blocking effects on K+-, Ba2+- and angiotensin-induced contractions of the aorta nor caused relaxation of the aorta contracted by Ca2+. These data suggest that E-643 is a specific and competitive inhibitor of noradrenaline at the alpha-adrenoceptors.

A newly isolated antispasmodic--butylidenephthalide

Butylidenephthalide (BdPh), ligustilide and butylphthalide were isolated and purified from neutral oil of Ligusticum wallichii Franch. Among these three, BdPh proved to be the most active in inhibiting rat uterine contractions induced by prostaglandin F2 alpha, oxytocin and ACh. In studies done to compare the effects of BdPh and papaverine (Pap), guinea pig ileum, vas deferens and taenia coli were used. BdPh inhibited contractile responses of the ileum to agonists including ACh, K+ and Ba2+ in normal Tyrode solution and to exogenous Ca2+ in high K+ (80 mM), Ca2+-free Tyrode solution, and also responses of vas deferens responses to norepinephrine. Thus, BdPh is a non-specific antispasmodic but weaker in potency than Pap. However, as the inhibitory effects of BdPh on phasic contraction (PC) and tonic contraction (TC) of preparations, including depolarized and non-depolarized ileum and taenia coli, were much the same, it is suggested that the action mechanism of BdPh may differ from that of Pap which inhibited TC more selectively than PC. It may be concluded that BdPh possesses an non-specific antispasmodic action like Pap, the mechanism of action being different from that of Pap.

Inhibition of intestinal smooth muscle contraction by surface-active alkyltrimethylammonium salts

The effects of surface-active alkyltrimethylammonium salts (C10--C20) on the contractile activity of isolated rat jejunum and on the gastrointestinal motility in anaesthetized rats were studied. The surfactants caused a dose-dependent depression of spontaneous contractions and of acetyl-beta-methylcholine and BaCl2 induced contractions of isolated rat jejunum. The depressant activity of the surface-active alkyltrimethylammonium salts on smooth muscle contraction increased with an increase in the length of the alkyl chain to maximum activity at C16. It is suggested that the depressant activity of the surface-active alkyltrimethylammonium salts on smooth muscle contraction is due to a non-specific interaction of the surfactants with the cellmembrane of the muscle cells. No effect on gastric and intestinal motility in vivo was observed following intragastric or intraintestinal administrations of surface-active alkyltrimethylammonium salts. This lack of effect upon intraintestinal or intragastric administration probably depends on an inability of the surfactants to reach the site of action when administered from the mucosal side.

In vitro study of antispasmodic effects of dicyclomine hydrochloride on vesicourethral smooth muscle of guinea pig and rabbit

Dicyclomine inhibition of acetylcholine-induced and barium chloride-induced isotonic contractions of the smooth muscle from three segments of the lower urinary tract (bladder body, bladder base, and proximal urethra) of the guinea pig and the rabbit was studied in vitro. In the guinea pig dicyclomine caused competitive inhibition of acetylcholine-induced contraction of the bladder body (1 x 10(-7) M to 1 x 10(-5) M) and the bladder base (1 x 10(-6) M, 1 X 10(-5) M) and was less potent than atropine and propantheline. In the rabbit significant blockade of acetylcholine-induced contractions occurred at dicyclomine concentrations of 5 x 10(-6) M to 3 x 10(-5) M in the bladder body and at 1 x 10(-5) M and 3 x 10(-5) M in the bladder base. In both species dicyclomine inhibitory effects were most marked in the bladder body, moderate in the bladder base, and minimal in the proximal urethra. Dicyclomine failed to cause inhibition of the barium chloride-induced contractions in the guinea pig vesicourethral smooth muscle. In rabbits, however, significant antagonism P less than 0.01) of barium chloride-induced muscle contraction was observed with dicyclomine at concentration 1 x 10(-5) M in both bladder body and the bladder base. The clinical implication of such properties of dicyclomine are discussed.

[Effects of orciprenaline on the responses to Ca, K, acetylcholine and Ba in the isolated seminal vesicles of guinea pigs, especially in relation to cyclic AMP (author's transl)]

By using the isolated seminal vesicles of guinea pigs, the effects of dibutyryl cyclic AMP and beta-stimulant, orciprenaline, on the responses to Ca, K, acetylcholine and Ba were investigated, especially in relation to cyclic AMP. The following results were obtained. 1. Orciprenaline inhibited the contraction produced by Ca, K, acetylcholine and Ba in a dose-dependent manner, and the inhibition became larger in the order of Ca, K, acetylcholine and Ba. 2. Dibutyryl cyclic AMP showed the same results as those of orciprenaline. That is, dibutyryl cyclic AMP inhibited the contractions produced by acetylcholine and Ba. 3. Orciprenaline showed the increased level of cyclic AMP in a dose-dependent manner. But the increase was not remarkable in the concentration in which the contractions produced by the tested contractile agents were inhibited by about 50%. From these results, the following suggestions were obtained; (1) there exists beta-receptor in guinea pig seminal vesicles and (2) a part of actions of orciprenaline is due to a mechanism unrelated to cyclic AMP.

Investigation of the mechanism of decreased sensitivity of the rat seminal vesicle to norepinephrine by lithium

Li+ is reported to reduce sensitivity of alpha-adrenergic receptors to NE. The present investigation was designed to investigate the mechanism of this decreased sensitivity on the rat isolated seminal vesicle. In innervated preparations, 1.35 X 10(-3) M Li+ (i) shifted the concentration-response curves of NE, methoxamine, ACh and BaCl2 to the right and reduced their maximum responses; (ii) antagonized the leftward shift and the enhancement of maximum responses to NE by cocaine (2.9 X 10(-4) M), and (iii) reduced only the maximum responses to KCl. In denervated preparations, 1.35 X 10 (-3) M Li+ shifted the concentration response curve of NE to the left without any change in the maximum responses. The antagonistic effects of Li+ on maximal responses to NE, ACh and KCl observed in innervated preparations were significantly increased in Ca++-free medium. Li+ (1.35 X 10(-3) M) increased NE uptake by the seminal vesicle significantly. It is concluded that decreased sensitivity of the seminal vesicle to NE by Li+ could be due to an increase in the uptake of NE and to a nonspecific postsynaptic spasmolytic action.

Comparative in vitro effects of imipramine, oxybutynin, and flavoxate on rabbit detrusor

The ability of imipramine, oxybutynin, and flavoxate to antagonize carbamylcholine and barium chloride (BaCl2)-induced contractions of rabbit detrusor, and to block impulse conduction in desheathed frog sciatic nerves has been assessed in vitro. Impiramine exerts noncompetitive carbamylcholine and BaCl2 blockade by 10(-5) M and a local anesthetic effect equipotent with that of tetracaine. Oxybutynin exerts a strong competitive antagonism of carbamylcholine by 10(-8) M, a noncompetitive antagonism of BaCl2 equivalent to that of imipramine, and moderate local anesthetic activity. Flavoxate, under these experimental conditions exerts little anticholinergic, antispasmodis, or local anesthetic activity. Imipramine and oxybutynin thus demonstrate a number of smooth muscle effects by which their therapeutic actions may be exerted. The mechanisms of action of flavoxate remain obscure.