PDMP blocks brefeldin A-induced retrograde membrane transport from golgi to ER: evidence for involvement of calcium homeostasis and dissociation from sphingolipid metabolism.

In this study, we show that an inhibitor of sphingolipid biosynthesis, D,L-threo-1-phenyl-2- decanoylamino-3-morpholino-1-propanol (PDMP), inhibits brefeldin A (BFA)-induced retrograde membrane transport from Golgi to endoplasmic reticulum (ER). If BFA treatment was combined with or preceded by PDMP administration to cells, disappearance of discrete Golgi structures did not occur. However, when BFA was allowed to exert its effect before PDMP addition, PDMP could not "rescue" the Golgi compartment. Evidence is presented showing that this action of PDMP is indirect, which means that the direct target is not sphingolipid metabolism at the Golgi apparatus. A fluorescent analogue of PDMP, 6-(N-[7-nitro-2,1, 3-benzoxadiazol-4-yl]amino)hexanoyl-PDMP (C6-NBD-PDMP), did not localize in the Golgi apparatus. Moreover, the effect of PDMP on membrane flow did not correlate with impaired C6-NBD-sphingomyelin biosynthesis and was not mimicked by exogenous C6-ceramide addition or counteracted by exogenous C6-glucosylceramide addition. On the other hand, the PDMP effect was mimicked by the multidrug resistance protein inhibitor MK571. The effect of PDMP on membrane transport correlated with modulation of calcium homeostasis, which occurred in a similar concentration range. PDMP released calcium from at least two independent calcium stores and blocked calcium influx induced by either extracellular ATP or thapsigargin. Thus, the biological effects of PDMP revealed a relation between three important physiological processes of multidrug resistance, calcium homeostasis, and membrane flow in the ER/ Golgi system.

Regulation of [Ca(2+)](i) homeostasis in MRP1 overexpressing cells.

Regulation of capacitative Ca(2+) entry was studied in two different multidrug resistance (MDR) protein (MRP1) overexpressing cell lines, HT29(col) and GLC4/ADR. MRP1 overexpression was accompanied by a decreased response to thapsigargin. Moreover, inhibition of capacitative Ca(2+) entry by D, L-threo-1-phenyl-2-decanoylamino-3-morpholino-1-propanol (PDMP) was abolished in MRP1 overexpressing cells. Both PDMP and the MRP1 inhibitor MK571 greatly reduced InsP(3)-mediated (45)Ca(2+) release from intracellular stores in HT29 cells. Again, these effects were virtually abolished in HT29(col) cells. Our results point to a modulatory role of MRP1 on intracellular calcium concentration ([Ca(2+)](i)) homeostasis which may contribute to the MDR phenotype.

Ca(2+)-dependent and -independent mechanism of cyclic-AMP reduction: mediation by bradykinin B2 receptors.

1. Bradykinin caused a transient reduction of about 25% in the cyclic AMP level in forskolin prestimulated DDT1 MF-2 smooth muscle cells (IC50: 36.4 +/- 4.9 nM) and a pronounced, sustained inhibition (40%) of the isoprenaline-stimulated cyclic AMP level (IC50: 37.5 +/- 1.1 nM). 2. The Ca2+ ionophore, ionomycin, mimicked both the bradykinin-induced transient reduction in the forskolin-stimulated cyclic AMP level and the sustained reduction in the isoprenaline-stimulated cyclic AMP level. 3. The Ca(2+)-dependent effect on cyclic AMP induced by bradykinin was mediated solely by Ca2+ release from internal stores, since inhibition of Ca2+ entry with LaCl3 did not reduce the response to bradykinin. 4. The involvement of calmodulin-dependent enzyme activities, protein kinase C or an inhibitory GTP binding protein in the bradykinin-induced responses was excluded since a calmodulin inhibitor, calmidazolium, a PKC inhibitor, staurosporine and pertussis toxin, respectively did not affect the decline in the cyclic AMP level. 5. Bradykinin enhanced the rate of cyclic AMP breakdown in intact cells, which effect was not mimicked by ionomycin. This suggested a Ca(2+)-independent activation of phosphodiesterase activity by bradykinin in DDT1 MF-2 cells. 6. The bradykinin B1 receptor agonist, desArg9-bradykinin, did not affect cyclic AMP formation in isoprenaline prestimulated cells, while the bradykinin B2 receptor antagonists, Hoe 140 (D-Arg[Hyp3, Thi5, D-Tic7, Oic8]-BK) and D-Arg[Hyp3, Thi5,8, D-Phe7]-BK completely abolished the bradykinin response in both forskolin and isoprenaline prestimulated cells. 7. Bradykinin caused an increase in intracellular Ca2+, which was antagonized by the bradykinin B2 receptor antagonists, Hoe 140 and D-Arg[Hyp3, Thi5,8, D-Phe7]-BK. The bradykinin B2 receptor agonist,desArg9-bradykinin, did not evoke a rise in cytoplasmic Ca2 .8. It is concluded, that stimulation of bradykinin B2 receptors causes a reduction in cellular cyclic AMP in DDT1, MF-2 cells. This decline in cyclic AMP is partly mediated by a Ca2+/calmodulin independent activation of phosphodiesterase activity. The increase in [Ca2+], mediated by bradykinin B2 receptors inhibited forskolin- and isoprenaline-activated adenylyl cyclase differently, most likely by interfering with different components of the adenylyl cyclase signalling pathway.

Regulation of histamine- and UTP-induced increases in Ins(1,4,5)P3, Ins (1,3,4,5)P4 and Ca2+ by cyclic AMP in DDT1 MF-2 cells.

1. Stimulation of P2U-purinoceptors with UTP or histamine H1-receptors with histamine gave rise to the formation of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (Ins(1,4,5)P3) and inositol 1,3,4,5-tetrakisphosphate (Ins(1,3,4,5)P4) in DDT1 MF-2 smooth muscle cells. 2. Stimulation of P2U-purinoceptors or histamine H1-receptors caused an increase in cytoplasmic Ca2+, consisting of an initial peak, representing the release of Ca2+ from internal stores and a sustained phase representing Ca2+ influx. 3. The P2U-purinoceptor-mediated Ca(2+)-entry mechanism was more sensitive to UTP than Ca(2+)-mobilization (EC50: 3.3 microM +/- 0.4 microM vs 55.1 microM +/- 9.2 microM), in contrast to these processes activated by histamine H1-receptors (EC50: 5.8 microM +/- 0.6 microM vs 3.1 microM +/- 0.5 microM). 4. Pre-stimulation of cells with several adenosine 3':5'-cyclic monophosphate (cyclic AMP) elevating agents, reduced the histamine H1-receptor-mediated formation of Ins(1,4,5)P3 and Ins(1,3,4,5)P4. Forskolin completely inhibited Ins(1,4,5)P3 formation (IC50: 158 +/- 24 nM) whereas Ins(1,3,4,5)P4 formation was inhibited by only 45% (IC50: 173 +/- 16 nM). The P2U-purinoceptor-mediated production of these inositol phosphates was not affected by cyclic AMP. 5. Forskolin and isoprenaline reduced the histamine-induced increase in cytoplasmic Ca2+, as measured in Ca2+ containing medium and in nominally Ca(2+)-free medium but did not change the UTP-induced increase in cytoplasmic Ca2+. 6. These results clearly demonstrate that cyclic AMP differentially regulates components of the histamine induced phospholipase C signal transduction pathway. Furthermore, cyclic AMP does not affect the phospholipase C pathway activated by stimulation of P2U-purinoceptors in DDT1 MF-2 cells.

Activation of the phospholipase C pathway by ATP is mediated exclusively through nucleotide type P2-purinoceptors in C2C12 myotubes.

1. The presence of a nucleotide receptor and a discrete ATP-sensitive receptor on C2C12 myotubes has been shown by electrophysiological experiments. In this study, the ATP-sensitive receptors of C2C12 myotubes were further characterized by measuring the formation of inositol(1,4,5)trisphosphate (Ins(1,4,5)P3) and internal Ca2+. 2. The nucleotides ATP and UTP caused a concentration-dependent increase in Ins(1,4,5)P3 content with comparable time courses (EC50: ATP 33 +/- 2 microM, UTP 80 +/- 4 microM). ADP was less effective in increasing Ins(1,4,5)P3 content of the cells, while selective agonists for P1-, P2X- and P2Y-purinoceptors, adenosine, alpha,beta-methylene ATP and 2-methylthio ATP, appeared to be ineffective. 3. Under Ca(2+)-free conditions, the basal level of Ins(1,4,5)P3 was lower than in the presence of Ca2+, and the ATP- and UTP-induced formation of Ins(1,4,5)P3 was diminished. 4. The Ins(1,4,5)P3 formation induced by optimal ATP and UTP concentrations was not additive. ATP- and UTP-induced Ins(1,4,5)P3 formation showed cross-desensitization, whereas cross-desensitization was absent in responses elicited by one of the nucleotides and bradykinin. 5. The change in Ins(1,4,5)P3 content induced by effective nucleotides was inhibited by suramin. Schild plots for suramin inhibition of Ins(1,4,5)P3 formation in ATP- and UTP-stimulated myotubes showed slopes greater than unity (1.63 +/- 0.09 and 1.37 +/- 0.11, respectively). Apparent pA2 values were 4.50 +/- 0.48 and 4.41 +/- 0.63 for ATP and UTP, respectively. 6. Stimulation of the cells with ATP or UTP induced a rapid increase in intracellular Ca2+, followed by a slow decline to basal levels. Ca2+ responses reached lower maximal values and did not show the slow phase in the absence of extracellular Ca2+. The ATP and UTP-evoked increase in intracellular Ca2+ was not additive and showed cross-desensitization. Cross-desensitization was absent in myotubes stimulated with one of the nucleotides and bradykinin.7. These results show that ATP- and UTP-induced formation of Ins(1,4,5)P3, Ca2+ release from internal stores and Ca2+-influx from the extracellular space are mediated exclusively via the nucleotide type P2-purinoceptor in mouse C2C12 myotubes.

Characterization of P2-purinoceptor mediated cyclic AMP formation in mouse C2C12 myotubes.

1. The formation of adenosine 3':5'-cyclic monophosphate (cyclic AMP) and inositol(1,4,5)trisphosphate (Ins(1,4,5)P3), induced by ATP and other nucleotides was investigated in mouse C2C12 myotubes. 2. ATP (100 microM) and ATP gamma S (100 microM) caused a sustained increase in cyclic AMP content of the cells, reaching a maximum after 10 min. The cyclic AMP content reached a maximum in the presence of 100 microM ATP, followed by a decline at higher ATP concentrations. ATP-induced cyclic AMP formation was inhibited by the P2-purinoceptor antagonist, suramin. 3. Myotubes hydrolysed ATP to ADP at a rate of 9.7 +/- 1.0 nmol mg-1 protein min-1. However, further hydrolysis of ADP to AMP and adenosine was negligible. 4. The cyclic AMP formation induced by ADP (10 microM-1 mM) showed similar characteristics to that induced by ATP, but a less pronounced decline was observed than with ATP. ADP-induced cyclic AMP formation was blocked by suramin, while cyclic AMP formation elicited by adenosine (10 microM-1 mM) was insensitive to suramin. 5. The ATP analogue, alpha,beta-methylene-ATP also induced a suramin-sensitive cyclic AMP formation, while 2-methylthio-ATP and the pyrimidine, UTP, did not affect cyclic AMP levels. 6. Stimulation of the myotubes with ATP or UTP (10 microM-1 mM) caused a concentration-dependent increase in the Ins(1,4,5)P3 content of the cells. ADP (100 microM-1 mM) was less effective. Adenosine did not affect Ins(1,4,5)P3 levels. 7. Incubation of the cells with UTP (30 microM- 1 mM) inhibited the ATP- and ADP-induced cyclic AMP formation, suggesting that stimulation of the 'nucleotide' type P2-receptor inhibits P2-purinoceptor mediated cyclic AMP formation in C2C12 myotubes. In contrast, UTP (30 microM-I mM) enhanced adenosine-induced cyclic AMP formation.8. Adenosine-sensitive P1-purinoceptors activating cyclic AMP formation were found in C2C12 myotubes.Further, a novel P2-purinoceptor is postulated, sensitive to ATP, ADP and ATPgammaS, which also activates the formation of cyclic AMP in C2C12 myotubes.

Reversal by suramin of neuromuscular block produced by pancuronium in the anaesthetized rat.

1. Rats were anaesthetized with sodium pentobarbitone and maximal twitches of a tibialis anterior muscle were evoked by stimulation of the motor nerve. 2. Suramin, injected intravenously in a series of cumulative bolus doses, each 15 mg kg-1, completely reversed a 90% depression of twitches maintained by a continuous intravenous infusion of pancuronium. The cumulated dose necessary to restore twitches to 50% of their control amplitude was 35 mg kg-1. Suramin did not modify a similar degree of block produced by suxamethonium, nor did it affect the amplitude of control maximal twitches, even in cumulative doses up to 150 mg kg-1. 3. The effects of bolus doses of suramin (85 mg kg-1), neostigmine (0.03 mg kg-1) and 4-aminopyridine (1.2 mg kg-1), calculated to restore pancuronium-blocked twitches to 95% of control amplitude, were compared. Suramin produced the most rapid reversal (1.1 +/- 0.5 min), but its duration of action was the shortest (9.4 +/- 1.6 min). Suramin was without effect on heart rate or blood pressure in the doses used. 4. The results showed that suramin reversed neuromuscular block produced by nondepolarizing blocking drug, pancuronium, but was without effect on a block produced by the depolarizing blocking drug, suxamethonium. Its short duration of action suggests that suramin would probably not be of value clinically as a reversal agent. However, it is possible that it might serve as a starter compound for the synthesis and development of a new class of reversal agents for use in anaesthetic practice.

Intracellular Angiotensin II and cell growth of vascular smooth muscle cells.

1. We recently demonstrated that intracellular application of Angiotensin II (Angiotensin II(intr)) induces rat aorta contraction independent of plasma membrane Angiotensin II receptors. In this study we investigated the effects of Angiotensin II(intr) on cell growth in A7r5 smooth muscle cells. 2. DNA-synthesis was increased dose-dependently by liposomes filled with Angiotensin II as measured by [(3)H]-thymidine incorporation at high (EC(50)=27+/-6 pM) and low (EC(50)=14+/-5 nM) affinity binding sites with increases in E(max) of 58+/-4 and 37+/-4% above quiescent cells, respectively. Cell growth was corroborated by an increase in cell number. 3. Extracellular Angiotensin II (10 pM - 10 microM) did not modify [(3)H]-thymidine incorporation. 4. Growth effects of Angiotensin II(intr) mediated via high affinity sites were inhibited by liposomes filled with 1 microM of the non-peptidergic antagonists losartan (AT(1)-receptor) or PD123319 (AT(2)-receptor) or with the peptidergic agonist CGP42112A (AT(2)-receptor). E(max) values were decreased to 30+/-3, 29+/-4 and 4+/-2%, respectively, without changes in EC(50). The Angiotensin II(intr) effect via low affinity sites was only antagonized by CGP42112A (E(max)=11+/-3%), while losartan and PD123319 increased E(max) to 69+/-4%. Intracellular applications were ineffective in the absence of Angiotensin II(intr). 5. Neither intracellular nor extracellular Angiotensin I (1 microM) were effective. 6. The Angiotensin II(intr) induced growth response was blocked by selective inhibition of phosphatidyl inositol 3-kinase (PI-3K) by wortmannin (1 microM) and of the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK/ERK) pathway by PD98059 (1 microM) to 61+/-14 and 4+/-8% of control, respectively. 7. These data demonstrate that Angiotensin II(intr) induces cell growth through atypical AT-receptors via a PI-3K and MAPK/ERK -sensitive pathway.

The nucleotide receptors on mouse C2C12 myotubes.

1. The response of C2C12 mouse myotubes to stimulation with adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and other nucleotides was studied by measuring changes in membrane potential. 2. A transient hyperpolarization followed by a slowly declining depolarization of the cells was observed in the presence of ATP (10 microM-1 mM). 3. The hyperpolarization was not observed in the absence of external calcium, and was abolished in the presence of tetraethylammonium (20 mM) or the bee toxin, apamin (0.1 microM). The depolarization was reduced under low sodium conditions. 4. A biphasic change in membrane potential was also recorded in the presence of adenosine 5'-O-(3-thiotriphosphate) (ATP gamma S) and the pyrimidine uridine triphosphate (UTP), while the ATP derivatives and analogues, adenosine diphosphate, adenosine, alpha,beta-methylene ATP and 2-methylthio ATP and the nucleotides, guanosine triphosphate and cytidine triphosphate, did not affect the membrane potential of the myotubes. 5. The hyperpolarization elicited by ATP gamma S or UTP was also blocked by apamin and abolished under Ca(2+)-free conditions. 6. In contrast to ATP and ATP gamma S, the depolarization evoked by UTP was unaffected under low Na+ and less sensitive to the antagonistic action of suramin. 7. The ATP and UTP responses at maximal concentration were not additive after simultaneous application. ATP elicited a depolarization if applied after UTP, while UTP did not change membrane potential following the application of ATP. 8. The concentration-response curves of the effective nucleotides were shifted to the right in the presence of suramin, suggesting competitive antagonism.9. These results can be explained by the presence of 'nucleotide receptors' mediating the ATP/UTPinduced hyperpolarization and depolarization in C2C12 myotubes. Furthermore, an increase in Na+-conductivity can be exclusively activated by ATP.

The effect of the PKC inhibitor GF109203X on the release of Ca2+ from internal stores and Ca2+ entry in DDT1 MF-2 cells.

1. The effects of the specific protein kinase C (PKC) inhibitor, GF109203X, were measured on the cytoplasmic Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i), and on histamine H1 receptor- and thapsigargin-mediated increases in [Ca2+]i in DDT1 MF-2 smooth muscle cells. 2. After pretreatment of cells with GF109203X (5 microM, 45 min), the histamine (100 microM)-induced initial rise in [Ca2+]i, representing Ca2+ mobilization from internal stores, was inhibited (by 59 +/- 7%). The slowly declining phase of the histamine induced Ca2+ response, reflecting Ca2+ entry, was enhanced (83 +/- 26%) in the presence of the PKC inhibitor. 3. The histamine induced release of Ca2+ from internal stores, measured after blocking Ca2+ entry with LaCl3 was inhibited by GF109203X in a concentration-dependent manner (IC50: 3.1 +/- 1.1 microM). 4. Histamine-induced formation of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (Ins(1,4,5)P3) was not changed in the presence of GF109203X. 5. The PKC activating phorbol ester, phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA, 1 microM), strongly reduced histamine-induced Ins(1,4,5)P3 formation (58 +/- 16%). This effect was reversed by GF109203X (5 microM). Furthermore, PMA diminished histamine evoked Ca2+ release (50 +/- 6%) and blocked Ca2+ entry completely. 6. The rise in [Ca2+]i caused by blocking endoplasmic reticulum Ca2(+)-ATPase with thapsigargin (1 microM), was strongly reduced (57 +/- 3%) after pretreatment of cells with GF109203X. Downregulation of PKC by long-term pretreatment of cells with PMA (1 microM, 48 h) did not abolish this effect of GF109203X (48 +/- 3% inhibition). 7. In permeabilized DDT, MF-2 cells preloaded with 45Ca2+ in the presence of GF109203X, the amount of 45Ca2+ released by Ins(1,4,5)P3 (10 microM) was markedly reduced (42 +/- 9%). GF109203X did not release Ca2+ itself and did not impair Ins(1,4,5)P3 receptor function. 8. Uptake of 45Ca2+ by intact cells, representing Ca2+ entry, was enhanced by GF109203X (65 +/- 11%), by histamine (24 +/- 6%) and also by thapsigargin (121 +/- 10%). The GF109203X- and the thapsigargin-induced uptake of 45Ca2+ were not additive. 9. These data suggest that GF109203X reduces the filling-state of intracellular Ins(1,4,5)P3 sensitive Ca2+ stores by inhibiting the Ca2+ uptake into these stores, thereby promoting store-dependent (capacitive) Ca2+ entry.

Different mechanisms of Ca2(+)-handling following nicotinic acetylcholine receptor stimulation, P2U-purinoceptor stimulation and K(+)-induced depolarization in C2C12 myotubes.

1. The increase in intracellular CA2+ on nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) stimulation, P2U-purinoceptor stimulation and K(+)-induced depolarization was investigated in mouse C2C12 myotubes by use of fura-2 fluorescence to characterize the intracellular organisation of Ca2+ releasing stores and Ca(2+)-entry process. 2. Stimulation of nAChRs with carbachol induced a rapid rise in internal Ca2+ (EC50 = 0.85 +/- 0.09 microM), followed by a sustained phase. The Ca2+ response evoked by carbachol (10 microM) was completely blocked by the nAChR antagonist, pancuronium (3 microM), but was not affected by the muscarinic antagonist, atropine (3 microM), or under conditions when Ca2+ entry was blocked by La3+ (50 microM) or diltiazem (10 microM). Addition of pancuronium (3 microM) during the sustained phase of the carbachol-evoked response did not affect this phase. 3. Stimulation of P2U purinoceptors with ATP (1 mM) induced a somewhat higher biphasic Ca2+ response (EC50 of the rapid phase: 8.72 +/- 0.08 microM) than with carbachol. Pretreatment with La3+ abolished the sustained phase of the ATP-induced Ca2+ response, while the response was unaffected by diltiazem or pancuronium. 4. Stimulation of the cells with high K+ (60 mM), producing the same depolarization as with carbachol (10 microM), induced a rapid monophasic Ca2+ response, insensitive to diltiazem, pancuronium or La3+. 5. Under Ca(2+)-free conditions, the sustained phase of the carbachol- and ATP-evoked responses were abolished. Pre-emptying of depolarization-sensitive stores by high K+ under Ca(2+)-free conditions did not affect the carbachol- or ATP-evoked Ca2+ mobilization and vice versa. Preincubation of the cells with ATP in the absence of extracellular Ca2+ decreased the amplitude of the subsequent carbachol-induced Ca2+ response to 11%, while in the reverse procedure the ATP-induced response was decreased to 65%. Ca2+ mobilization evoked by simultaneous addition of optimal concentrations of carbachol and ATP was increased compared to levels obtained with either agonist. 6. Preincubation with high K+ under normal conditions abolished the sustained phase of the ATP-evoked Ca2+ response. The carbachol response consisted only of the sustained phase in the presence of high K+. 7. The carbachol-induced Ca2+ response was completely abolished under low Na+/Ca(2+)-free conditions, while under low Na+ conditions only a sustained Ca2+ response was observed. The ATP- and K(+)-induced responses were changed compared to Ca(2+)-free conditions. 8. ATP (300 microM) induced the formation of Ins(1,4,5)P3 under Ca(2+)-free conditions with a comparable time course to that found for the rise in internal Ca2+. In contrast to ATP, carbachol (10 microM) did not affect Ins(1,4,5)P3 levels under Ca(2+)-free conditions. 9. It is concluded that the Ca2+ release from discrete stores of C2C12 myotubes is induced by stimulation of nAChRs, P2U-purinoceptors and by high K+. Only the P2U-purinoceptor and nAChR activated stores show considerable overlap in releasable Ca2+. Sustained Ca(2+)-entry is activated by stimulation of nAChRs and P2U-purinoceptors via separate ion-channels, which are different from the skeletal muscle nAChR-coupled cation-channel.

Changes in membrane potential and phosphoinositides during alpha 1-adrenoceptor stimulation in smooth muscle cells of guinea-pig taenia caeci.

The effect of a submaximal concentration of adrenaline (3-5 microM) was studied in taenia caeci smooth muscle cells. Membrane potential hyperpolarization was observed in intact muscle preparations and this response could be separated into two phases, depending on the state of a membrane-bound calcium compartment. The effect of alpha 1-adrenergic stimulation was also measured by [3H]inositol incorporation into phospholipid and inositol phosphate fractions of taenia cell suspensions both in the absence and presence of 2.5 mM extracellular calcium. In the absence of extracellular calcium the inositol phospholipids increased within 15 s after stimulation, followed by enhanced inositol phosphates. With calcium present there was a biphasic increase in the phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PIP2) fraction with a simultaneous release of inositol phosphates. Lithium ions affected the incorporation of label into the lipids but not into the inositol phosphate fractions. These findings suggest that, in taenia caeci cells, alpha 1-adrenergic-induced membrane hyperpolarization resulting in muscle relaxation is associated with changes in the PIP2 content.

Calcium translocation during activation of alpha 1-adrenoceptor and voltage-operated channels in smooth muscle cells.

Changes in potential and mechanical activity were measured with the sucrose-gap method and changes in intracellular free calcium were determined from the fluorescence intensity of the calcium-quin 2 complex at 37 degrees C in smooth muscle cells of guinea-pig taenia caecum following alpha 1-adrenoceptor stimulation. The muscle cells responded with a transient hyperpolarization and a transient increase in intracellular free calcium on alpha 1-adrenoceptor stimulation in the absence of extracellular calcium. Sustained hyperpolarization, cessation of spike activity, relaxation and an increase in fluorescence intensity were observed following alpha 1-adrenoceptor stimulation in the presence of extracellular calcium. Similar characteristics were observed on alpha 1-adrenoceptor stimulation in the presence of diltiazem used to suppress spontaneous activity and in the presence of cytochalasin B used to prevent changes in the contractile state of the muscle cells. Treatment of the preparation with caffeine caused an initial depolarization, contraction and increase in free intracellular calcium. Stimulation of the alpha 1-adrenoceptors in the presence of caffeine did not block the alpha 1-adrenoceptor-induced hyperpolarization, but the changes in fluorescence intensity were completely inhibited. It was concluded from the results obtained that changes in intracellular calcium derived from both receptor and from voltage-operated systems were detected. Furthermore, it was concluded that mobilization of calcium, most likely from a plasma membrane-bound store, on alpha 1-adrenoceptor stimulation mediated the release of calcium from an intracellular compartment, probably the endoplasmic reticulum, and promoted the opening of potassium channels with as a result hyperpolarization and inhibition of smooth muscle activity of taenia caecum.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

The phospholipase C activating P2U purinoceptor also inhibits cyclicAMP formation in DDT1 MF-2 smooth muscle cells.

The P2U purinoceptor mediated effect on cellular cAMP was investigated in DDT1 MF-2 smooth muscle cells. Stimulation of these receptors by ATP or UTP caused a pronounced decrease of about 50% in cellular cAMP levels in forskolin or isoprenaline pretreated cells. This action of the nucleotides was concentration dependent with an IC50 of 9.4 +/- 0.2 microM and 29.0 +/- 0.5 microM for UTP and ATP, respectively and was inhibited by the P2-purinoceptor antagonist suramin. The cAMP level appeared to be modified by intracellular Ca2+, represented by an initial decline in cAMP. Neither inactivation of protein kinase C by staurosporine nor elevated cytoplasmic Ca2+ concentrations interfered with the sustained decrease in cAMP levels induced by ATP or UTP, showing that this effect is not mediated via the phospholipase C pathway known to be activated after P2U purinoceptor stimulation in DDT1 MF-2 cells. Pertussis toxin inhibited the action of these nucleotides on the cellular cAMP level. It can be concluded that the P2U purinoceptor in DDT1 MF-2 cells is coupled to different G-proteins, activating phospholipase C and inhibiting adenylyl cyclase activity.

P2-purinoceptor-mediated membrane currents in DDT1 MF-2 smooth muscle cells.

The electrophysiological response evoked by ATP was investigated in the DDT1 MF-2 smooth muscle cell line using the microelectrode technique and the whole-cell patch clamp technique. Application of ATP (10(-3) M) to the bathing solution caused a small initial depolarization of the cell membrane, followed by hyperpolarization and slow depolarization. During voltage clamping (-50 mV) a triphasic response was recorded on stimulation with ATP (10(-4)-10(-3) M). A short-lasting inward current was followed by a transient outward current and a slowly decreasing inward current. This response was not affected by the receptor antagonists, propranolol (3 X 10(-6) M), phentolamine (3 X 10(-6) M), atropine (3 X 10(-6) M) or theophylline (10(-3) M). The ATP-induced currents were not modified by the voltage-dependent channel blocking agents, tetraethyl ammonium (3 X 10(-3) M), 3,4-diaminopyridine (10(-3) M), tetrodotoxin (3 X 10(-7) M) or diltiazem (10(-5) M). The fast inward current was not detectable at a low ATP concentration (10(-5) M). The outward current showed a reversal potential near -76 mV, which equals the potassium equilibrium potential. This current was abolished after neutralization of the potassium electrochemical gradient. The outward current was suppressed under calcium-free conditions and also in the presence of tolbutamide (10(-4) M) or glipizide (5 X 10(-6) M). Guanosine triphosphate (5 X 10(-6) M) promoted the outward current, while this current was inhibited in the presence of guanosine diphosphate (5 X 10(-6) M).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

The multiple action of bradykinin on smooth muscle of guinea-pig taenia caeci.

The action of bradykinin on the smooth muscle of guinea-pig taenia caeci was studied by measuring changes in membrane potential, the contractile state of the muscle cells and intracellular calcium concentrations at 22 degrees C in the presence of tetrodotoxin, yohimbine, prazosin, propranolol and atropine. The bradykinin response was characterised by an initial hyperpolarization and suppression of spike activity followed by a sustained depolarization and an increased spike activity accompanied by inhibition of the phasic contractions, an increase in muscle tone and the development of phasic contractions, respectively. The actions of bradykinin were not affected after B1-bradykinin receptors were blocked with des-Arg9-[Leu8]bradykinin. The events induced by bradykinin were accompanied by an increase in the intracellular calcium concentration, as monitored by quin-2 fluorescence. The hyperpolarization and depolarization persisted in the presence of diltiazem (10(-5) M) and in calcium-free conditions. The hyperpolarization could be evoked only once in the absence of calcium and was inhibited in the presence of apamin and after stimulation of alpha 1-adrenoceptors or P2-purinoceptors. Membrane conductance was decreased during the sustained depolarization. The membrane depolarization was abolished after the sodium concentration gradient was reduced. These results show a multiple action of bradykinin mediated via B2-receptors: (1) on calcium mobilization associated with activation of potassium channels; (2) on calcium release from intracellular stores and (3) on receptor-activated sodium channels.

Effect of cromakalim on smooth muscle cells of guinea-pig taenia caeci.

Cromakalim caused hyperpolarization and reduction of the electrotonic potential in a concentration-dependent manner in smooth muscle cells of guinea-pig taenia caeci. There was a relatively constant change in the electrotonic potential under calcium-free, low-sodium and low-chloride conditions in the presence of cromakalim as compared to control conditions with Krebs solutiuon. The effect of cromakalin (10(-5) M) was inhibited by glibenclamide (5 X 10(-5) M). These results indicate that cromakalim specifically promotes potassium efflux in smooth muscle cells of the guinea-pig taenia caeci via glibenclamide-sensitive potassium channels, to cause hyperpolarization, suppression of spike activity and relaxation.

The role of inositol 1,3,4,5-tetrakisphosphate in internal Ca2+ mobilization following histamine H1 receptor stimulation in DDT1 MF-2 cells.

Receptor-activated formation of inositol phosphates results in mobilization of intracellular stored Ca2+ in a variety of cells, including vas deferens derived DDT1 MF-2 cells. Stimulation of the histamine H1 receptor on these cells caused a pronounced formation of inositol 1,3,4,5-tetrakisphosphate (Ins(1,3,4,5)P4) with respect to that of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (Ins(1,4,5)P3). In this study, the role of inositol phosphates, in particular Ins(1,3,4,5)P4 on the internal Ca(2+)-releasing process was investigated in permeabilized and histamine-stimulated intact DDT1 MF-2 cells. In permeabilized cells. Ins(1,4,5)P3 induced a concentration-dependent release of intracellular stored Ca2+. Addition of Ins(1,3,4,5)P4 did not cause Ca2+ mobilization, but its presence enhanced the amount of Ca2+ released by Ins(1,4,5)P3, thereby increasing the total Ca(2+)-releasing capacity. The effect of both inositol phosphates was inhibited by heparin, known to block Ins(1,4,5)P3-sensitive receptors. Thus, the additional amount of Ca2+ released by Ins(1,3,4,5)P4 is mediated, either via Ins(1,4,5)P3-sensitive Ca2+ channels, or via different heparin-sensitive Ca2+ channels activated by both Ins(1,4,5)P3 and Ins(1,3,4,5)P4. Histamine H1 receptor stimulation in intact cells induced a Ca(2+)-dependent K+ current, representing Ca2+ release from internal stores if receptor-activated Ca2+ entry from the extracellular space was prevented under Ca(2+)-free conditions or in the presence of La3+. This transmembrane current was abolished in the presence of intracellularly applied heparin. Depletion of Ins(1,4,5)P3-sensitive Ca2+ stores by internal application of Ins(1,4,5)P3 reduced the histamine evoked K+ current to some extent if the contribution of external Ca2+ was excluded.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Characterization of the UV-induced electrophysiological response in smooth muscle.

The effect of ultraviolet (UV) light on taenia caeci smooth muscle of guinea-pig was studied. This stimulus induced a decrease in membrane conductance, hyperpolarization of the smooth muscle cells, a decrease in spike activity and a diminished level of cGMP and enhancement of lipid peroxidation. The hyperpolarization evoked by UV light was attenuated in the presence of sodium nitrite, reaching a maximum at 0.5 mM sodium nitrite. The level of cGMP was enhanced in the presence of nitrite and lipid peroxidation was not changed. Under these conditions lipid peroxidation was not changed during UV irradiation either. The UV-induced hyperpolarization was abolished in the absence of extracellular calcium, inhibited in the presence of 8-Br-cGMP and enhanced by an increase in the extracellular calcium concentration. These results are consistent with the supposition that UV-A irradiation blocks calcium influx via a cGMP-dependent mechanism.

Nucleotide receptors on DDT1 MF-2 vas deferens cells.

On exposure to triphosphatic nucleotides vas deferens DDT1 MF-2 smooth muscle cells responded with an outward K+ current as measured with the whole-cell patch clamp configuration. The rank order of potency was: ATP greater than UTP greater than TTP greater than CTP = GTP. The responses evoked by these agonists were blocked by suramin. Adenosine, ADP, alpha, beta-methylene-ATP and 2-methylthio-ATP did not affect the transmembrane current. The responses evoked by the nucleotides in DDT1 MF-2 cells are supposed to be mediated via 'nucleotide' receptors.