VRQ397 (CRAVKY): a novel noncompetitive V2 receptor antagonist.

Vasopressin type 2 receptor (V2R) exhibits mostly important properties for hydroosmotic equilibrium and, to a lesser extent, on vasomotricity. Drugs currently acting on this receptor are analogs of the natural neuropeptide, arginine vasopressin (AVP), and hence are competitive ligands. Peptides that reproduce specific sequences of a given receptor have lately been reported to interfere with its action, and if such molecules arise from regions remote from the binding site they would be anticipated to exhibit noncompetitive antagonism, but this has yet to be shown for V2R. Six peptides reproducing juxtamembranous regions of V2R were designed and screened; the most effective peptide, cravky (labeled VRQ397), was characterized. VRQ397 was potent (IC(50) = 0.69 +/- 0.25 nM) and fully effective in inhibiting V2R-dependent physiological function, specifically desmopressin-L-desamino-8-arginine-vasopressin (DDAVP)-induced cremasteric vasorelaxation; this physiological functional assay was utilized to avoid overlooking interference of specific signaling events. A dose-response profile revealed a noncompetitive property of VRQ397; correspondingly, VRQ397 bound specifically to V2R-expressing cells could not displace its natural ligand, AVP, but modulated AVP binding kinetics (dissociation rate). Specificity of VRQ397 was further confirmed by its inability to bind to homologous V1 and oxytocin receptors and its inefficacy to alter responses to stimulation of these receptors. VRQ397 exhibited pharmacological permissiveness on V2R-induced signals, as it inhibited DDAVP-induced PGI(2) generation but not that of cAMP or recruitment of beta-arrestin2. Consistent with in vitro and ex vivo effects as a V2R antagonist, VRQ397 displayed anticipated in vivo aquaretic efficacy. We hereby describe the discovery of a first potent noncompetitive antagonist of V2R, which exhibits functional selectivity, in line with properties of a negative allosteric modulator.

Are you better? A multi-centre study of patient-defined recovery from Complex Regional Pain Syndrome.

BACKGROUND: Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) symptoms can significantly differ between patients, fluctuate over time, disappear or persist. This leads to problems in defining recovery and in evaluating the efficacy of therapeutic interventions. OBJECTIVES: To define recovery from the patients' perspective and better understand their priorities for treatment approaches. METHODS: Establishing an international consortium, we used a 2-Round Delphi-based study in eight countries across Europe and North America. Participants ≥18 years who met, or had met, Budapest clinical criteria were included. Round 1 participants completed the statement: 'I would/do consider myself recovered from CRPS if/because…' alongside demographic and health questionnaires. Data were thematically organised and represented as 62 statements, from which participants identified and ranked their recovery priorities in Round 2. RESULTS: Round 1 (N = 347, 80% female, 91% non-recovered) dominant ICF themes were: activities of daily living; bodily functions; external factors; participation and personal factors. The top five priority statements in Round 2 (N = 252) were: no longer having (1) CRPS-related pain, (2) generalised pain and discomfort, (3) restricted range of movement, (4) need for medication, (5) stiffness in the affected limb. With very few exceptions, priorities were consistent, irrespective of patient demographics/geography. Symptoms affecting daily activities were among those most frequently reported. CONCLUSIONS: Our data showed a small number of themes are of highest importance to CRPS patients' definition of recovery. Patients want their pain, movement restriction and reliance on medication to be addressed, above all other factors. These factors should therefore be foremost concerns for future treatment and rehabilitation programmes. SIGNIFICANCE: Those with longstanding CRPS may no longer meet diagnostic criteria but still be symptomatic. Defining recovery is therefore problematic in CRPS. Our study has identified patients' definition of recovery from CRPS, in order of priority, as relief from: their CRPS-related pain, generalised pain, movement restriction, reliance on medication, and stiffness.

Prolonged hypercapnia-evoked cerebral hyperemia via K(+) channel- and prostaglandin E(2)-dependent endothelial nitric oxide synthase induction.

Mechanisms for secondary sustained increase in cerebral blood flow (CBF) during prolonged hypercapnia are unknown. We show that induction of endothelial NO synthase (eNOS) by an increase in prostaglandins (PGs) contributes to the secondary CBF increase during hypercapnic acidosis. Ventilation of pigs with 6% CO(2) (PaCO(2 approximately)65 mm Hg; pH approximately 7.2) caused a approximately 2.5-fold increase in CBF at 30 minutes, which declined to basal values at 3 hours and gradually rose again at 6 and 8 hours; the latter increase was associated with PG elevation, nitrite formation, eNOS mRNA expression, and in situ NO synthase (NOS) reactivity (NADPH-diaphorase staining). Subjecting free-floating brain sections to acidotic conditions increased eNOS expression, the time course of which was similar to that of CBF increase. Treatment of pigs with the cyclooxygenase inhibitor diclofenac or the NOS inhibitor Nomega-nitro-L-arginine blunted the initial rise and prevented the secondary CBF increase during hypercapnic acidosis; neuronal NOS blockers 1-(2-trifluoromethylphenyl) imidazole and 3-bromo-7-nitroindazole were ineffective. Diclofenac abolished the hypercapnia-induced rise in cerebrovascular nitrite production, eNOS mRNA expression, and NADPH-diaphorase reactivity. Acidosis (pH approximately 7.15, PCO(2 approximately )40 mm Hg; 6 hours) produced similar increases in prostaglandin E(2) (PGE(2)) and eNOS mRNA levels in isolated brain microvessels and in NADPH-diaphorase reactivity of brain microvasculature; these changes were prevented by diclofenac, by the receptor-operated Ca(2+) channel blocker SK&F96365, and by the K(ATP) channel blocker glybenclamide. Acidosis increased Ca(2+) transients in brain endothelial cells, which were blocked by glybenclamide and SK&F96365 but not by diclofenac. Increased PG-related eNOS mRNA and NO-dependent vasorelaxation to substance P was detected as well in rat brain exposed to 6 hours of hypercapnia. PGE(2) was the only major prostanoid that modulated brain eNOS expression during acidosis. Thus, in prolonged hypercapnic acidosis, the secondary CBF rise is closely associated with induction of eNOS expression; this seems to be mediated by PGE(2) generated by a K(ATP) and Ca(2+) channel-dependent process.

Cyclooxygenase-2 in human and experimental ischemic proliferative retinopathy.

BACKGROUND: Intravitreal neovascular diseases, as in ischemic retinopathies, are a major cause of blindness. Because inflammatory mechanisms influence vitreal neovascularization and cyclooxygenase (COX)-2 promotes tumor angiogenesis, we investigated the role of COX-2 in ischemic proliferative retinopathy. METHODS AND RESULTS: We describe here that COX-2 is induced in retinal astrocytes in human diabetic retinopathy, in the murine and rat model of ischemic proliferative retinopathy in vivo, and in hypoxic astrocytes in vitro. Specific COX-2 but not COX-1 inhibitors prevented intravitreal neovascularization, whereas prostaglandin E2, mainly via its prostaglandin E receptor 3 (EP3), exacerbated neovascularization. COX-2 inhibition induced an upregulation of thrombospondin-1 and its CD36 receptor, consistent with the observed antiangiogenic effects of COX-2 inhibition; EP3 stimulation reversed effects of COX-2 inhibitors on thrombospondin-1 and CD36. CONCLUSIONS: These findings point to an important role for COX-2 in ischemic proliferative retinopathy, as in diabetes.

FR 173657: a new, potent, nonpeptide kinin B2 receptor antagonist. An in vitro study.

FR 173657, the first effective nonpeptide kinin B2 receptor antagonist, has been tested in four preparations from different species (human, pig, rabbit, and guinea pig). The new compound shows high apparent affinity for the four B2 receptors, with pA2 values ranging from 8.2 to 9.4 FR 173657 is a selective B2 receptor antagonist that does not interact with human, pig, or rabbit B1 receptors. The new compound is extremely specific for the kinin B2 receptors as it does not affect the myotropic effects of norepinephrine, endothelin-1, or 5-hydroxytryptamine in the human umbilical vein; the contractions elicited by substance P and angiotensin II in the rabbit jugular vein or those produced by acetylcholine and histamine in the guinea pig ileum; or the relaxation of the pig coronary artery induced by norepinephrine and substance P. FR 173657 acts as a competitive antagonist over an extended range of concentrations on human and rabbit B2 receptors, whereas on pig and guinea pig receptors, it depresses the maximal effect of bradykinin and thus appears to act as a noncompetitive antagonist.

Kinin B1 receptor antagonists containing alpha-methyl-L-phenylalanine: in vitro and in vivo antagonistic activities.

-To protect from metabolism and to improve potency of the AcLys-[D-betaNal7,Ile8]desArg9-bradykinin (BK) (R 715), we prepared and tested 3 analogues containing alpha-methyl-L-Phe ([alphaMe]Phe) in position 5: these are the AcLys-[(alphaMe)Phe5,D-betaNal7, Ile8]desArg9BK (R 892), Lys-Lys-[(alphaMe)Phe5,D-betaNal7, Ile8]desArg9BK (R 913), and AcLys-Lys-[(alphaMe)Phe5,D-betaNal7, Ile8]desArg9BK (R 914). The new compounds were tested against the contractile effect induced by desArg9BK on 2 B1 receptor bioassays, the human umbilical vein, and the rabbit aorta. Their antagonistic activities were compared with those of the early prototypes (Lys-[Leu8]desArg9BK and [Leu8]desArg9BK) and with other recently described peptide antagonists. The 3 (alphaMe)Phe analogues showed high antagonistic potencies (pA2) at both the human (8.8, 7.7, and 8. 7, respectively) and rabbit (8.6, 7.8, and 8.6, respectively) B1 receptors. No antagonistic effects (pA2<5) were observed on the B2 receptors that mediate the contractile effects of BK on the human umbilical vein, the rabbit jugular vein, and the guinea pig ileum. Moreover, these new B1 antagonists were found to be resistant to in vitro degradation by purified angiotensin-converting enzyme from rabbit lung. The Nalpha-acetylated forms, R 892 and R 914, were resistant to aminopeptidases from human plasma. In vivo antagonistic potencies (ID50) of B1 receptor antagonists were evaluated in anesthetized lipopolysaccharide-treated (for B1 receptor) and nontreated (for B2 receptor) rabbits against the hypotensive effects of exogenous desArg9BK and BK. R 892 efficiently inhibited (ID50 2.8 nmol/kg IV) hypotension induced by desArg9BK without affecting that evoked by BK (ID50 >600 nmol/kg IV). Conversely, the peptide antagonists Lys-Lys-[Hyp3,Igl5,D-Igl7,Oic8]desArg9BK (B 9858) and DArg-[Hyp3,Thi5,D-Tic7,Oic8] desArg9BK (S 0765) showed dual B1/B2 receptor antagonism in vitro and in vivo. It is concluded that R 892 and congeners provide selective, highly potent, and metabolically stable B1 kinin receptor antagonists that can be useful for the assessment of the physiological and pathological roles of kinin B1 receptors.

Structure-activity studies of B1 receptor-related peptides. Antagonists.

We tested several peptides related to des-Arg9-bradykinin as stimulants or inhibitors of B1 (rabbit aorta, human umbilical vein) and B2 (rabbit jugular vein, guinea pig ileum, human umbilical vein) receptors. We also incubated the compounds with purified angiotensin-converting enzyme from rabbit lung to test their resistance to degradation. We evaluated apparent affinities (in terms of the affinity constant pA2) of compounds and their potential residual agonistic activities (alpha E). Bradykinin and des-Arg9-bradykinin were used as agonists for the B2 and B1 receptors, respectively. Degradation of peptides by the angiotensin-converting enzyme was prevented in the presence of a D-residue in position 7 of des-Arg9-bradykinin. Replacement of Pro7 with D-Tic combined with Leu, Ile, Ala, or D-Tic in position 8 led to weak B1 receptor antagonists, some of which had strong residual agonistic activities on the B2 receptor preparations. The use of D-beta Nal in position 7, combined with Ile in position 8 and AcLys at the N-terminal (eg, AcLys[D-beta Nal7, Ile8]des-Arg9-bradykinin) gave the most active B1 receptor antagonist (pA2 of 8.5 on rabbit aorta and human umbilical vein), which is also partially resistant to enzymatic degradation. Extension of the N-terminal end by Sar-Tyr-epsilon Ahx (used for labeling purposes) and even cold-labeling of Tyr with iodine were compatible with high, selective, and specific antagonism of the B1 receptors. We compared some compounds with some already known B1 receptor antagonists to underline the novelty of new peptidic compounds.

Delayed myocardial protection induced by endotoxin does not involve kinin B(1)-receptors.

Endotoxin is known to confer a delayed protection against myocardial infarction. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) treatment also induces the de novo synthesis of kinin B(1)-receptors that are not present in normal conditions. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether LPS-induced B(1)-receptors are implicated in the reduction of infarct size brought about by LPS. Rabbits were submitted to a 30-min coronary artery occlusion and 3-h reperfusion sequence. Six groups were studied: pretreated or not (control animals) with LPS (5 microgram kg(-1) i.v.) 24 h earlier and treated 15 min before and throughout ischaemia - reperfusion with either the B(1)-antagonist R-715 (1 mg kg(-1) h(-1)), the B(1)-agonist Sar-[D-Phe(8)]-des-Arg(9)-bradykinin (15 microgram kg(-1) h(-1)) or vehicle (saline). Infarct size and area at risk were assessed by differential staining and planimetric analysis. The presence of B(1)-receptors in LPS-pretreated animals was confirmed by a decrease in mean arterial pressure in response to B(1) stimulation. LPS-pretreatment significantly reduced infarct size (6.4+/-1.7%, of area at risk vs 24.1+/-2.5% in control animals, P<0.05). This protection was not modified by B(1)-receptor antagonism (7.4+/-2.2%, NS) or stimulation (5.2+/-1.2%, NS). Neither antagonist nor agonist modified infarct size in control animals. In conclusion, these data suggest that LPS-induced myocardial protection in the rabbit is not related to concomitant de novo B(1)-receptor induction.

In vitro and in vivo effects of kinin B(1) and B(2) receptor agonists and antagonists in inbred control and cardiomyopathic hamsters.

The aims of this study were to examine the possible alterations occurring in the effects of kinins on isolated aortae of inbred control (CHF 148) and cardiomyopathic (CHF 146) hamsters of 150 - 175 and 350 - 375 days of age. Bradykinin (BK) and desArg(9)BK contracted isolated aortae (with or without endothelium) of hamsters of both strains and ages. After tissue equilibration (90 min), responses elicited by both kinin agonists were stable over the time of experiments. The patterns of isometric contractions of BK and desArg(9)BK were however found to be different; desArg(9)BK had a slower onset and a longer duration of action than BK. Potencies (pEC(50) values) of BK in all groups of hamsters were significantly increased by preincubating the tissues with captopril (10(-5) M). No differences in the pEC(50) values and the E(max) values for BK or desArg(9)BK were seen between isolated vessels from inbred control and cardiomyopathic hamsters. The myotropic effect of BK was inhibited by the selective non peptide antagonist, FR 173657 (pIC(50) 7.25+/-0.12 at the bradykinin B(2) receptor subtype (B(2) receptor)). Those of desArg(9)BK, at the bradykinin B(1) receptor subtype (B(1) receptor) were abolished by either R 715 (pIC(50) of 7. 55+/-0.05; alpha(E) = 0), Lys[Leu(8)]desArg(9)BK (pIC(50) of 7.21+/-0. 01; alpha(E) = 0.22) or [Leu(8)]desArg(9)BK (pIC(50) of 7.25+/-0.02; alpha(E) = 0.18). FR 173657 had no agonistic activity, exerted a non competitive type of antagonism and was poorly reversible (lasting more than 5 h) from B(2) receptor. In vivo, FR 173657 (given per os at 1 and 5 mg kg(-1), 1 h before the experiment) antagonized the acute hypotensive effect of BK in anaesthetized hamsters. It is concluded that aging and/or the presence of a congenital cardiovascular disorder in hamsters are not associated with changes in the in vitro aortic responses to either BK or desArg(9)BK.

Prostaglandin E(2) increases cyclic AMP and inhibits endothelin-1 production/secretion by guinea-pig tracheal epithelial cells through EP(4) receptors.

Prostaglandin E(2) (PGE(2)) increased adenosine 3' : 5'-cyclic monophosphate (cyclic AMP) formation in tracheal epithelial cells and concomitantly decreased the production/secretion of immunoreactive endothelin (irET). Naturally occurring prostanoids and selective and non-selective EP receptor agonists showed the following rank order of potency in stimulating cyclic AMP generation by epithelial cells: PGE(2) (EP-selective)>16,16-dimethyl PGE(2) (EP-selective)>11-deoxy PGE(2) (EP-selective)>>>iloprost (IP/EP(1)/EP(3)-selective), butaprost (EP(2)-selective), PGD(2) (DP-selective), PGF(2alpha) (FP-selective). The lack of responsiveness of the latter prostanoids indicated that the prostanoid receptor present in these cells is not of the DP, FP, IP, EP(1), EP(2) or EP(3) subtype. Pre-incubating the cells with the selective TP/EP(4)-receptor antagonists AH23848B and AH22921X antagonized the PGE(2)-evoked cyclic AMP generation. This suggested that EP(4) receptors mediate PGE(2) effects. However, in addition to any antagonistic effects at EP(4)-receptors, both compounds, to a different extent, modified cyclic AMP metabolism. The selective EP(1), DP and EP(2) receptor antagonist (AH6809) failed to inhibit PGE(2)-evoked cyclic AMP generation which confirmed that the EP(2) receptor subtype did not contribute to the change in cyclic AMP formation in these cells. The PGE(2)-induced inhibition of irET production by guinea-pig tracheal epithelial cells was due to cyclic AMP generation and activation of the cyclic AMP-dependent protein kinase since this effect was reverted by the cyclic AMP antagonist Rp-cAMPS. These results provide the first evidence supporting the existence of a functional prostaglandin E(2) receptor that shares the pharmacological features of the EP(4)-receptor subtype in guinea-pig tracheal epithelial cells. These receptors modulate cyclic AMP formation as well as ET-1 production/secretion in these cells.

Adenosine induces cyclic-AMP formation and inhibits endothelin-1 production/secretion in guinea-pig tracheal epithelial cells through A(2B) adenosine receptors.

1. The adenosine receptor subtype mediating adenosine 3' : 5'-cyclic monophosphate (cyclic AMP) formation and the effect of its activation on endothelin-1 (ET-1) secretion were studied in primary cultures of tracheal epithelial cells. 2. Adenosine analogues showed the following rank order of potency (pD(2) value) and intrinsic activity on the generation of cyclic AMP by tracheal epithelial cells: 5'-N-ethylcarboxyamidoadenosine (NECA, A(1)/A(2A)/A(2B), pD(2): 5.44+/-0.16)>adenosine (ADO, non selective, pD(2): 4.99+/-0. 09; 71+/-9% of NECA response) >/=2-Cl-adenosine (2CADO, non selective, pD(2): 4.72+/-0.14; 65+/-9% of NECA response)>>>CGS21680 (A(2A); inactive at up to 100 microM). 3. Cyclic AMP formation stimulated by NECA in guinea-pig tracheal epithelial cells was inhibited by adenosine receptor antagonist with the following order of apparent affinity (pA(2) value): Xanthine amine congeners (XAC, A(2A)/A(2B), 7.89+/-0.22)>CGS15943 (A(2A)/A(2B), 7.24+/-0. 26)>ZM241385 (A(2A), 6.69+/-0.14)>DPCPX (A(1), 6.51+/-0. 14)>3n-propylxanthine (weak A(2B), 4.30+/-0.10). This rank order of potency is typical for A(2B)-adenosine receptor. 4. Adenosine decreased basal and LPS-stimulated irET production in a concentration-dependent manner. Moreover, NECA but not CGS21680 inhibited LPS-induced irET production. 5. The inhibitory effect of NECA on LPS-induced irET production was reversed by XAC (pA(2)=8.84+/-0. 12) and DPCPX (pA(2)=8.10+/-0.22). 6. These results suggested that adenosine increased cyclic AMP formation and inhibited irET production/secretion by guinea-pig tracheal epithelial cells through the activation of a functional adenosine receptor that is most likely the A(2B) subtype. This adenosine receptor may be involved in the regulation of the level of ET-1 production/secretion by guinea-pig tracheal epithelial cells in physiological as well as in pathophysiological conditions.

Receptors for kinins in the human isolated umbilical vein.

1. The human umbilical vein has been found to contract in response to bradykinin (BK) and desArg9BK. 2. The rank order of potency of agonists, in the presence of the B1 receptor antagonist Lys[Leu8]desArg9BK, is as follows: [Hyp3, Tyr(Me)8]BK (pD2 8.88) = [Hyp3]BK (pD2 8.86) = LysBK (pD2 8.81) > or = BK (pD2 8.60) >> [Aib7]BK (pD2 6.38) >> desArg9BK and LysdesArg9BK (inactive). 3. Hoe 140 (pA2 8.42) inhibits the effects of BK while other B2 receptor peptide antagonists are very weak and WIN 64338 is practically inactive. 4. Venoconstrictor responses to desArg9BK of fresh tissues increase with time during the in vitro incubation and reach a maximum after 4-6 h. The activity of Hoe 140 (pA2 5.48) is negligible against B1 receptor agonists. 5. When measured in the presence of the selective B2 receptor antagonist Hoe 140 (400 nM), the order of potency of kinin related peptides on the B1 receptor is Lys[desArg9]BK (pD2 8.60) > desArg9BK (pD2 6.69). BK, LysBK, [Hyp3]BK and other B2 receptor agonists are inactive. 6. The B1 receptor antagonist, Lys[Leu8]desArg9BK (pA2 7.99), inhibits the response of the human vein to B1 receptor agonists (LysdesArg9BK or desArg9BK), but do not alter the effect of BK. 7. The results summarized in this paper indicate that the human isolated umbilical vein is a sensitive preparation containing both B1 and B2 receptors. The human B2 receptor shows some similarity with that of the rabbit (at least for agonist potencies) and differs from the B2 receptor of the guinea-pig. Compared to the rabbit B1 receptor, the human B1 receptor shows low sensitivity to peptides that lack the N-terminal Lys.

Preservation of neural function in the perinate by high PGE(2) levels acting via EP(2) receptors.

Despite increasingly frequent and longer lasting hypoxic episodes during progressive labor, the neonate is alert and vigorous at birth. We investigated whether high levels of PGs during the perinatal period assist in preserving neural function after such "stressful" hypoxic events. Visual evoked potentials (VEPs) and electroretinograms (ERGs) were recorded before and 45 min after mild moderate asphyxic hypoxia (two 4-min asphyxic-hypoxic periods induced by interrupting ventilation at 8-min intervals) in newborn piglets <12 h old treated or not treated with inhibitors of PG synthase (ibuprofen or diclofenac) with or without PG analogs. At 45 min after the hypoxic episode, P2 and b-wave amplitudes were slightly decreased and latencies were delayed. These changes in the VEP and ERG returned to near normal by 120 min. Ibuprofen and diclofenac decreased brain and retinal PG levels and markedly intensified 45 min after hypoxia-induced changes in VEP and ERG, but cerebral and retinal blood flows improved. Combined treatment with PG synthase inhibitor in combination with 16,16-dimethyl-PGE(2) (a PGE(2) analog), but not with PGI(2) and PGF(2alpha) analogs, and in combination with the EP(2) receptor agonist butaprost (but not EP(1) or EP(3) agonists), prevented ibuprofen- and diclofenac-aggravated postasphyxia electrophysiological changes. In conclusion, high levels of PGE(2) in nervous tissue, via actions on EP(2) receptors, seem to contribute to preservation of neural function in the perinate subjected to frequent hypoxic events.

Role of thromboxane in retinal microvascular degeneration in oxygen-induced retinopathy.

Microvascular degeneration is an important event in oxygen-induced retinopathy (OIR), a model of retinopathy of prematurity. Because oxidant stress abundantly generates thromboxane A2 (TxA2), we tested whether TxA2 plays a role in retinal vasoobliteration of OIR and contributes to such vascular degeneration by direct endothelial cytotoxicity. Hyperoxia-induced retinal vasoobliteration in rat pups (80% O2 exposure from postnatal days 5-14) was associated with increased TxB2 generation and was significantly prevented by TxA2 synthase inhibitor CGS-12970 (10 mg x kg(-1) x day(-1)) or TxA2-receptor antagonist CGS-22652 (10 mg x kg(-1) x day(-1)). TxA2 mimetics U-46619 (EC50 50 nM) and I-BOP (EC50 5 nM) caused a time- and concentration-dependent cell death of neuroretinovascular endothelial cells from rats as well as newborn pigs but not of smooth muscle and astroglial cells; other prostanoids did not cause cell death. The peroxidation product 8-iso-PGF2, which is generated in OIR, stimulated TxA2 formation by endothelial cells and triggered cell death; these effects were markedly diminished by CGS-12970. TxA2-dependent neuroretinovascular endothelial cell death was mostly by necrosis and to a lesser extent by apoptosis. The data identify an important role for TxA2 in vasoobliteration of OIR and unveil a so far unknown function for TxA2 in directly triggering neuroretinal microvascular endothelial cell death. These effects of TxA2 might participate in other ischemic neurovascular injuries.

Two NK-3 receptor subtypes: demonstration by biological and binding assays.

The existence of two neurokinin NK-3 receptor subtypes has been suggested on the basis of results obtained in binding assays. In the present study, we have confirmed the two NK-3 receptor subtypes by using data obtained in both biological and binding assays. Experiments have been performed in the rat portal vein and in the guinea-pig ileum treated with NK-1 and NK-2 selective antagonists, namely CP 96345 and SR 48968. Orders of potency of agonists on the rat portal vein are as follows: for neurokinins, NKB > NKA > SP; for tachykinins, KAS > ELE > PHY; and for selective agonist: [MePhe7]NKB >> senktide. On the guinea-pig ileum, the agonist rank orders of potency are: NKB > SP > NKA, ELE > KAS > PHY; and for selective agonist: [MePhe7]NKB = senktide. The apparent affinity of antagonists shows differences in both biological and binding assays. In fact, on the rat portal vein, SR 48968 is almost inactive (pA2 or IC50 approximately 4.8), while R-486 [Trp7, beta Ala8]NKA(4-10) shows a pA2 value of 7.45 and an IC50 of 5.6. An opposite pattern of activity is observed in the guinea-pig ileum, where SR 48968 shows a pA2 of 6.05 and an IC50 of 6.7, while R-486 has a pA2 of 6.1 and an IC50 of < 5.0. These results confirm the existence of two NK-3 sites differing pharmacologically. It is proposed to name NK-3A the receptor of the guinea-pig ileum and NK-3B the receptor of the rat portal vein.

Bradykinin receptors and their antagonists.

Bradykinin and related kinins act on two receptor types, named B1 and B2. Initially identified in classical bioassays, these receptors have been cloned and characterized in binding assays performed on plasma membranes of cells expressing the native or the transfected human kinin B1 or B2 receptor types. The two classification criteria recommended by Schild, namely the order of potency of agonists and the actual affinity of antagonists have been found to be applicable for receptor classification based not on data only from bioassays but also from other approaches (binding assays, molecular biology techniques). The order of potency for agonists was found with naturally occurring peptides (the kinins, their desArg9-metabolites) and with selective agonists (e.g., [Hyp3]bradykinin, [Aib7]bradykinin): the findings obtained with agonists could be validated with various antagonists. Critical evaluation of the initial compounds, typified by D)-Arg-[Hyp3, D-Phe7]bradykinin, has indicated that they are short-acting, partial agonists, non-selective for the bradykinin B2 receptor because they can be metabolized to desArg9-fragments that act on the kinin B1 receptor. Use of such compounds has given rise to misunderstandings, especially with regard to new receptor types (e.g., type B3), the existence of which was not confirmed by molecular cloning. A second generation of antagonists, represented by D-Arg[Hyp3,Thi5,D-Tic7,Oic8]bradykinin (HOE 140) has been found resistant to degradation, long-acting in vivo, selective and specific for the B2 receptor and potent in all species tested. HOE 140 has been used successfully in basic pharmacology, in animal physiopathologies involving kinins and their receptors and even in clinical studies. A third generation of non-peptide B2 receptor antagonists, whose prototype is FR 173657 ((E)-3-(6-acetamido-3-pyridyl)-N-[N-2-4-dichloro-3-[(2-methyl-8-quinolin yl)oxymethyl]phenyl]-N-methylamino carbonyl-methyl]acrylamide) is now emerging and may represent substantial progress since FR 173657 is a potent orally active, selective and specific antagonist of the human and other species B2 receptors. There is also progress regarding antagonists for the B1 receptor. The initial compounds, especially Lys-[Leu8]desArg9-bradykinin remain among of the most potent, specific and selective B1 antagonists which, however, show partial agonistic effects in some B1 receptor subtypes (e.g., the mouse). Progress has been made with AcLys-[D-betaNal7, Ile8]desArg9-bradykinin (R 715) and Lys-Lys-[Hyp3, Cpg5, D-Tic7,Cpg8]desArg9-bradykinin (B 9958) which are pure B1 antagonists in humans and rabbits; both peptides have shown resistance to degradation by peptidases and have little if any, residual agonistic activity on mouse and rat B1 receptors. No non-peptide antagonists are yet available for the B1 receptor.

Involvement of bradykinin B1 and B2 receptors in pulmonary leukocyte accumulation induced by Sephadex beads in guinea pigs.

The effects of selected bradykinin receptor antagonists on leukocyte infiltration into the lungs were studied in a model of guinea pig lung inflammation induced by the intravenous injection of Sephadex beads. The bradykinin B1 receptor antagonist, [Leu8]desArg9-BK (40 mg kg(-1) 24 h(-1)) and the bradykinin B2 receptor antagonist, DArg[Hyp3,Thi5,DTic7,Oic8]BK (code name HOE 140; 4 mg kg(-1) 24 h(-1)), administered intravenously by osmotic pumps, significantly reduced eosinophil counts by 33% and 42% in bronchoalveolar fluid, respectively. HOE 140 decreased neutrophil counts by 35%. LysLys[Hyp3,Igl5,D-Igl7,Oic8]desArg9BK+ ++ (code name B 9858), a newly described bradykinin B1 receptor antagonist, administered intraperitoneally (1 mg kg(-1)), decreased eosinophil and neutrophil counts by 45% in bronchoalveolar fluid. D-Arg[Hyp3,Igl5,D-Igl7,Oic8]BK (code name B 9430), a non-selective bradykinin B1/B2 receptor antagonist, also administered intraperitoneally (1 mg kg(-1)), decreased eosinophil and macrophage counts by 62% and 80% in bronchoalveolar fluid. These results suggest that bradykinin B1 and B2 receptors are involved in leukocyte recruitment in our model of lung inflammation.

Effects of kinins on isolated stomachs of control and transgenic knockout B2 receptor mice.

The aim of this study was to investigate the pharmacological profile of the kinin B1 and B2 receptors in isolated stomachs from wild-type control and B2 receptor knockout mice. Isometric contractions evoked by bradykinin (BK) (9 nM) and desArg9BK (28 nM) were shown to be different. The contraction induced by desArg9BK had a longer duration than that evoked by BK and increased during incubation in vitro in stomachs of wild-type controls, while in the transgenic B2 receptor knockout mice, the contractions evoked by desArg9BK and BK were similar and followed the B1 receptor agonist pattern. BK but not the carboxypeptidase-resistant analog, [Phe8psi(CH2-NH)Arg9]BK, was found to be active in the stomach of B2 receptor knockout mice. BK-induced contractions were prevented by mergetpa (a carboxypeptidase M inhibitor) (10 microM) and by a the B receptor antagonist, AcLys[DbetaNal7,Ile8]desArg9BK (R 715) (0.88 microM), while not being influenced by the B2 receptor antagonist HOE 140 (0.38 microM). BK and [Phe8psi(CH2-NH)Arg9]BK were potent contractants of the wild-type mice stomach and their effects were not influenced by mergetpa or by the B receptor antagonist: they were reduced by HOE 140. After incubation in vitro for 3-4 hours, the tissues were treated with HOE 140 (4 microM) and FR-173657 (17 microM) to eliminate B2 receptor function. In these tissues, BK evoked a B1-like contraction which was inhibited by mergetpa (10 microM) and antagonized by R 715 (8 microM). The results indicate that BK acts primarily on B2 receptors. However, after intramural conversion to desArg9BK, activation of B1 receptors of the mice stomach occurs. In the tissues of B2 receptor knockout mice, BK behaves as a pure B1 receptor agonist while in stomachs of control animals, the B2 receptor contribution is overwhelming. After complete blockade of the B2 receptor, BK is able to evoke B1-mediated responses similar to those observed in tissues of B2 receptor knockout mice. It is concluded that the disruption of the B2 receptor gene eliminates the B2 receptor without influencing the B1 receptor system.

Non-selectivity of new bradykinin antagonists for B1 receptors.

Two new B1 receptor antagonists, [Hyp3,Thi5,DTic7,Oic8]desArg9-BK and DArg[Hyp3,Thi5,DTic7,Oic8]desArg9-BK were tested in vitro on the rabbit jugular vein and the guinea pig ileum (preparations containing B2 receptors) and on the rabbit aorta (preparation containing B1 receptors) for pharmacological characterization. The results indicate that both compounds are antagonists on both B1 and B2 receptors, are competitive and discriminate between B2A and B2B receptor subtypes.

Bradykinin receptor types and B2 subtypes.

Bradykinin, desArg9BK, some agonist analogues and several antagonists have been tested in isolated organs in order to identify bradykinin B2 receptor subtypes. The initial pharmacological characterization was made in the rabbit jugular vein and the guinea pig ileum, two widely used B2 preparations which have shown marked differences in their sensitivities to both agonists and antagonists. The study has then been extended to peripheral tissues (stomach, colon, urinary bladder) of four species (the rat, guinea pig, rabbit and man) and to isolated vessels (rabbit jugular vein, rabbit vena cava, guinea pig pulmonary artery, rat portal vein) in order to determine if pharmacologic receptor subtypes may be related to species. It has been shown that B2 receptors in rat and guinea pig tissues belong to a similar pharmacological entity, a receptor which is different from that mediating the responses of rabbit and human tissues. Agonists order of potency ([Hyp3]BK > BK > [Aib7]BK) obtained in the rabbit jugular vein is different from that found in the guinea pig ileum (BK < or = [Aib7]BK > [Hyp3]BK). Affinities of competitive antagonists (for instance DArg[Hyp3,DPhe7,Leu8]BK) in rabbit tissues are higher than in guinea pig and rat tissues by at least 2 log units, while the non peptidic compound WIN 64338 is more active (also by two log units) in guinea pig than in human and rabbit tissues. The non competitive long-acting antagonist HOE 140 is very potent and equally active in the four species. Some antagonists (peptides without unnatural residues, peptides with unnatural residues, non peptides) have been shown to be specific for kinin receptors and selective for the B2. Altogether, the present results a) confirm the existence of two B2 receptor subtypes, b) suggest that receptor subtypes may be species dependent and c) indicate that the B2 receptor subtype found in the rabbit is similar to that found in man.