Fentanyl-induced reward seeking is sex and dose dependent and is prevented by D-cysteine ethylester.

Introduction: Despite their inclination to induce tolerance, addictive states, and respiratory depression, synthetic opioids are among the most effective clinically administered drugs to treat severe acute/chronic pain and induce surgical anesthesia. Current medical interventions for opioid-induced respiratory depression (OIRD), wooden chest syndrome, and opioid use disorder (OUD) show limited efficacy and are marked by low success in the face of highly potent synthetic opioids such as fentanyl. D-Cysteine ethylester (D-CYSee) prevents OIRD and post-treatment withdrawal in male/female rats and mice with minimal effect on analgesic status. However, the potential aversive or rewarding effects of D-CYSee have yet to be fully characterized and its efficacy could be compromised by interactions with opioid-reward pathology. Methods: Using a model of fentanyl-induced conditioned place preference (CPP), this study evaluated 1) the dose and sex dependent effects of fentanyl to induce rewarding states, and 2) the extent to which D-CYSee alters affective state and the acquisition of fentanyl-induced seeking behaviors. Results: Fentanyl reward-related effects were found to be dose and sex dependent. Male rats exhibited a range-bound dose response centered at 5 µg/kg. Female rats exhibited a CPP only at 50 µg/kg. This dose was effective in 25% of females with the remaining 75% showing no significant CPP at any dose. Pretreatment with 100 mg/kg, but not 10 mg/kg, D-CYSee prevented acquisition of fentanyl seeking in males while both doses were effective at preventing acquisition in females. Discussion: These findings suggest that D-CYSee is an effective co-treatment with prescribed opioids to reduce the development of OUD.

Pharmacological modulation of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2 ) EP receptors improves cardiomyocyte function under hyperglycemic conditions.

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) affects >30 million Americans and nearly 70% of individuals with T2D will die from cardiovascular disease (CVD). Circulating levels of the inflammatory signaling lipid, prostaglandin E2 (PGE2 ), are elevated in the setting of obesity and T2D and are associated with decreased cardiac function. The EP3 and EP4 PGE2 receptors have opposing actions in several tissues, including the heart: overexpression of EP3 in cardiomyocytes impairs function, while EP4 overexpression improves function. Here we performed complementary studies in vitro with isolated cardiomyocytes and in vivo using db/db mice, a model of T2D, to analyze the effects of EP3 inhibition or EP4 activation on cardiac function. Using echocardiography, we found that 2 weeks of systemic treatment of db/db mice with 20 mg/kg of EP3 antagonist, beginning at 6 weeks of age, improves ejection fraction and fractional shortening (with no effect on heart rate). We further show that either EP3 blockade or EP4 activation enhances contractility and calcium cycling in isolated mouse cardiomyocytes cultured in both normal and high glucose. Thus, peak [Ca2+ ]I transient amplitude was increased, while time to peak [Ca2+ ]I and [Ca2+ ]I decay were decreased. These data suggest that modulation of EP3 and EP4 activity has beneficial effects on cardiomyocyte contractility and overall heart function.

Tempol Reverses the Negative Effects of Morphine on Arterial Blood-Gas Chemistry and Tissue Oxygen Saturation in Freely-Moving Rats.

We have reported that pretreatment with the clinically approved superoxide dismutase mimetic, Tempol (4-hydroxy-2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidine-N-oxyl), blunts the cardiorespiratory depressant responses elicited by a subsequent injection of fentanyl, in halothane-anesthetized rats. The objective of the present study was to determine whether Tempol is able to reverse the effects of morphine on arterial blood-gas (ABG) chemistry in freely-moving Sprague Dawley rats. The intravenous injection of morphine (10 mg/kg) elicited substantial decreases in pH, pO2 and sO2 that were accompanied by substantial increases in pCO2 and Alveolar-arterial gradient, which results in diminished gas-exchange within the lungs. Intravenous injection of a 60 mg/kg dose of Tempol 15 min after the injection of morphine caused minor improvements in pO2 and pCO2 but not in other ABG parameters. In contrast, the 100 mg/kg dose of Tempol caused an immediate and sustained reversal of the negative effects of morphine on arterial blood pH, pCO2, pO2, sO2 and Alveolar-arterial gradient. In other rats, we used pulse oximetry to determine that the 100 mg/kg dose of Tempol, but not the 60 mg/kg dose elicited a rapid and sustained reversal of the negative effects of morphine (10 mg/kg, IV) on tissue O2 saturation (SpO2). The injection of morphine caused a relatively minor fall in mean arterial blood pressure that was somewhat exacerbated by Tempol. These findings demonstrate that Tempol can reverse the negative effects of morphine on ABG chemistry in freely-moving rats paving the way of structure-activity and mechanisms of action studies with the host of Tempol analogues that are commercially available.

Essential Oils from Monarda fistulosa: Chemical Composition and Activation of Transient Receptor Potential A1 (TRPA1) Channels.

Little is known about the pharmacological activity of Monarda fistulosa L. essential oils. To address this issue, we isolated essential oils from the flowers and leaves of M. fistulosa and analyzed their chemical composition. We also analyzed the pharmacological effects of M. fistulosa essential oils on transient receptor potential (TRP) channel activity, as these channels are known targets of various essential oil constituents. Flower (MEOFl) and leaf (MEOLv) essential oils were comprised mainly of monoterpenes (43.1% and 21.1%) and oxygenated monoterpenes (54.8% and 77.7%), respectively, with a high abundance of monoterpene hydrocarbons, including p-cymene, γ-terpinene, α-terpinene, and α-thujene. Major oxygenated monoterpenes of MEOFl and MEOLv included carvacrol and thymol. Both MEOFl and MEOLv stimulated a transient increase in intracellular free Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) in TRPA1 but not in TRPV1 or TRPV4-transfected cells, with MEOLv being much more effective than MEOFl. Furthermore, the pure monoterpenes carvacrol, thymol, and ß-myrcene activated TRPA1 but not the TRPV1 or TRPV4 channels, suggesting that these compounds represented the TRPA1-activating components of M. fistulosa essential oils. The transient increase in [Ca2+]i induced by MEOFl/MEOLv, carvacrol, ß-myrcene, and thymol in TRPA1-transfected cells was blocked by a selective TRPA1 antagonist, HC-030031. Although carvacrol and thymol have been reported previously to activate the TRPA1 channels, this is the first report to show that ß-myrcene is also a TRPA1 channel agonist. Finally, molecular modeling studies showed a substantial similarity between the docking poses of carvacrol, thymol, and ß-myrcene in the binding site of human TRPA1. Thus, our results provide a cellular and molecular basis to explain at least part of the therapeutic properties of these essential oils, laying the foundation for prospective pharmacological studies involving TRP ion channels.

Stimulation of TRPA1 attenuates ischemia-induced cardiomyocyte cell death through an eNOS-mediated mechanism.

The functional expression of transient receptor potential cation channel of the ankyrin-1 subtype (TRPA1) has recently been identified in adult mouse cardiac tissue where stimulation of this ion channel leads to increases in adult mouse ventricular cardiomyocyte (CM) contractile function via a Ca2+-Calmodulin-dependent kinase (CaMKII) pathway. However, the extent to which TRPA1 induces nitric oxide (NO) production in CMs, and whether this signaling cascade mediates physiological or pathophysiological events in cardiac tissue remains elusive. Freshly isolated CMs from wild-type (WT) or TRPA1 knockout (TRPA1-/-) mouse hearts were treated with AITC (100 µM) and prepared for immunoblot, NO detection or ischemia protocols. Our findings demonstrate that TRPA1 stimulation with AITC results in phosphorylation of protein kinase B (Akt) and endothelial NOS (eNOS) concomitantly with NO production in a concentration- and time-dependent manner. Additionally, we found that TRPA1 induced increases in CM [Ca2+]i and contractility occur independently of Akt and eNOS activation mechanisms. Further analysis revealed that the presence and activation of TRPA1 promotes CM survival and viability following ischemic insult via a mechanism partially dependent upon eNOS. Therefore, activation of the TRPA1/Akt/eNOS pathway attenuates ischemia-induced CM cell death.

Modulation of TRPA1 channel activity by Cdk5 in sensory neurons.

Transient receptor potential cation channel, subfamily A, member 1 (TRPA1), is activated by a broad range of noxious stimuli. Cdk5, a member of the Cdk family, has recently been identified as a modulator of pain signaling pathways. In the current study, we investigated the extent to which Cdk5 modulates TRPA1 activity. Cdk5 inhibition was found to attenuate TRPA1 response to agonist in mouse DRG sensory neurons. Additionally, the presence of active Cdk5 was associated with increased TRPA1 phosphorylation in transfected HEK293 cells that was roscovitine-sensitive and absent in the mouse mutant S449A full-length channel. Immunopurified Cdk5 was observed to phosphorylate human TRPA1 peptide substrate at S448A in vitro. Our results point to a role for Cdk5 in modulating TRPA1 activity.

TRPA1 ion channel stimulation enhances cardiomyocyte contractile function via a CaMKII-dependent pathway.

RATIONALE: Transient receptor potential channels of the ankyrin subtype-1 (TRPA1) are non-selective cation channels that show high permeability to calcium. Previous studies from our laboratory have demonstrated that TRPA1 ion channels are expressed in adult mouse ventricular cardiomyocytes (CMs) and are localized at the z-disk, costamere and intercalated disk. The functional significance of TRPA1 ion channels in the modulation of CM contractile function have not been explored. OBJECTIVE: To identify the extent to which TRPA1 ion channels are involved in modulating CM contractile function and elucidate the cellular mechanism of action. METHODS AND RESULTS: Freshly isolated CMs were obtained from murine heart and loaded with Fura-2 AM. Simultaneous measurement of intracellular free Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) and contractility was performed in individual CMs paced at 0.3 Hz. Our findings demonstrate that TRPA1 stimulation with AITC results in a dose-dependent increase in peak [Ca2+]i and a concomitant increase in CM fractional shortening. Further analysis revealed a dose-dependent acceleration in time to peak [Ca2+]i and velocity of shortening as well as an acceleration in [Ca2+]i decay and velocity of relengthening. These effects of TRPA1 stimulation were not observed in CMs pre-treated with the TRPA1 antagonist, HC-030031 (10 µmol/L) nor in CMs obtained from TRPA1-/- mice. Moreover, we observed no significant increase in cAMP levels or PKA activity in response to TRPA1 stimulation and the PKA inhibitor peptide (PKI 14-22; 100 nmol/L) failed to have any effect on the TRPA1-mediated increase in CM contractile function. However, TRPA1 stimulation resulted in a rapid phosphorylation of Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent kinase II (CaMKII) (1-5 min) that correlated with increases in CM [Ca2+]i and contractile function. Finally, all aspects of TRPA1-dependent increases in CM [Ca2+]i, contractile function and CaMKII phosphorylation were virtually abolished by the CaMKII inhibitors, KN-93 (10 µmol/L) and autocamtide-2-related peptide (AIP; 20 µmol/L). CONCLUSIONS: These novel findings demonstrate that stimulation of TRPA1 ion channels in CMs results in activation of a CaMKII-dependent signaling pathway resulting in modulation of intracellular Ca2+ availability and handling leading to increases in CM contractile function. Cardiac TRPA1 ion channels may represent a novel therapeutic target for increasing the inotropic and lusitropic state of the heart.

TRPA1 and TRPV1 contribute to propofol-mediated antagonism of U46619-induced constriction in murine coronary arteries.

BACKGROUND: Transient receptor potential (TRP) ion channels have emerged as key components contributing to vasoreactivity. Propofol, an anesthetic is associated with adverse side effects including hypotension and acute pain upon infusion. Our objective was to determine the extent to which TRPA1 and/or TRPV1 ion channels are involved in mediating propofol-induced vasorelaxation of mouse coronary arterioles in vitro and elucidate the potential cellular signal transduction pathway by which this occurs. METHODS: Hearts were excised from anesthetized mice and coronary arterioles were dissected from control C57Bl/6J, TRPA1-/-, TRPV1-/- and double-knockout mice (TRPAV-/-). Isolated microvessels were cannulated and secured in a temperature-controlled chamber and allowed to equilibrate for 1 hr. Vasoreactivity studies were performed in microvessels pre-constricted with U46619 to assess the dose-dependent relaxation effects of propofol on coronary microvascular tone. RESULTS: Propofol-induced relaxation was unaffected in vessels obtained from TRPV1-/- mice, markedly attenuated in pre-constricted vessels obtained from TRPA1-/- mice and abolished in vessels obtained from TRPAV-/- mice. Furthermore, NOS inhibition with L-NAME or endothelium denuding abolished the proporfol-induced depressor response in pre-constricted vessels obtained from all mice. In the absence of L-NAME, BKCa inhibition with penitrem A markedly attenuated propofol-mediated relaxation in vessels obtained from wild-type mice and to a lesser extent in vessels obtained from TRPV1-/-, mice with no effect in vessels obtained from TRPA1-/- or TRPAV-/- mice. CONCLUSIONS: TRPA1 and TRPV1 appear to contribute to the propofol-mediated antagonism of U46619-induced constriction in murine coronary microvessels that involves activation of NOS and BKCa.

Chemical composition and phagocyte immunomodulatory activity of Ferula iliensis essential oils.

Essential oil extracts from Ferula iliensis have been used traditionally in Kazakhstan for treatment of inflammation and other illnesses. Because little is known about the biologic activity of these essential oils that contributes to their therapeutic properties, we analyzed their chemical composition and evaluated their phagocyte immunomodulatory activity. The main components of the extracted essential oils were (E)-propenyl sec-butyl disulfide (15.7-39.4%) and (Z)-propenyl sec-butyl disulfide (23.4-45.0%). Ferula essential oils stimulated [Ca2+]i mobilization in human neutrophils and activated ROS production in human neutrophils and murine bone marrow phagocytes. Activation of human neutrophil [Ca2+]i flux by Ferula essential oils was dose-dependently inhibited by capsazepine, a TRPV1 channel antagonist, indicating that TRPV1 channels mediate this response. Furthermore, Ferula essential oils stimulated Ca2+ influx in TRPV1 channel-transfected HEK293 cells and desensitized the capsaicin-induced response in these cells. Additional molecular modeling with known TRPV1 channel agonists suggested that the active component is likely to be (Z)-propenyl sec-butyl disulfide. Our results provide a cellular and molecular basis to explain at least part of the beneficial therapeutic properties of FEOs.

4-Hydroxynonenal dependent alteration of TRPV1-mediated coronary microvascular signaling.

We demonstrated previously that TRPV1-dependent regulation of coronary blood flow (CBF) is disrupted in diabetes. Further, we have shown that endothelial TRPV1 is differentially regulated, ultimately leading to the inactivation of TRPV1, when exposed to a prolonged pathophysiological oxidative environment. This environment has been shown to increase lipid peroxidation byproducts including 4-Hydroxynonenal (4-HNE). 4-HNE is notorious for producing protein post-translation modification (PTM) via reactions with the amino acids: cysteine, histidine and lysine. Thus, we sought to determine if 4-HNE mediated post-translational modification of TRPV1 could account for dysfunctional TRPV1-mediated signaling observed in diabetes. Our initial studies demonstrate 4-HNE infusion decreases TRPV1-dependent coronary blood flow in C57BKS/J (WT) mice. Further, we found that TRPV1-dependent vasorelaxation was suppressed after 4-HNE treatment in isolated mouse coronary arterioles. Moreover, we demonstrate 4-HNE significantly inhibited TRPV1 currents and Ca2+ entry utilizing patch-clamp electrophysiology and calcium imaging respectively. Using molecular modeling, we identified potential pore cysteines residues that, when mutated, could restore TRPV1 function in the presence of 4-HNE. Specifically, complete rescue of capsaicin-mediated activation of TRPV1 was obtained following mutation of pore Cysteine 621. Finally, His tag pull-down of TRPV1 in HEK cells treated with 4-HNE demonstrated a significant increase in 4-HNE binding to TRPV1, which was reduced in the TRPV1 C621G mutant. Taken together these data suggest that 4-HNE decreases TRPV1-mediated responses, at both the in vivo and in vitro levels and this dysfunction can be rescued via mutation of the pore Cysteine 621. Our results show the first evidence of an amino acid specific modification of TRPV1 by 4-HNE suggesting this 4-HNE-dependent modification of TRPV1 may contribute to microvascular dysfunction and tissue perfusion deficits characteristic of diabetes.

Modulation of Human Neutrophil Responses by the Essential Oils from Ferula akitschkensis and Their Constituents.

Essential oils were obtained by hydrodistillation of the umbels+seeds and stems of Ferula akitschkensis (FAEOu/s and FAEOstm, respectively) and analyzed by gas chromatography and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Fifty-two compounds were identified in FAEOu/s; the primary components were sabinene, α-pinene, ß-pinene, terpinen-4-ol, eremophilene, and 2-himachalen-7-ol, whereas the primary components of FAEOstm were myristicin and geranylacetone. FAEOu/s, ß-pinene, sabinene, γ-terpinene, geranylacetone, isobornyl acetate, and (E)-2-nonenal stimulated [Ca(2+)]i mobilization in human neutrophils, with the most potent being geranylacetone (EC50 = 7.6 ± 1.9 µM) and isobornyl acetate 6.4 ± 1.7 (EC50 = 7.6 ± 1.9 µM). In addition, treatment of neutrophils with ß-pinene, sabinene, γ-terpinene, geranylacetone, and isobornyl acetate desensitized the cells to N-formyl-Met-Leu-Phe (fMLF)- and interleukin-8 (IL-8)-induced [Ca(2+)]i flux and inhibited fMLF-induced chemotaxis. The effects of ß-pinene, sabinene, γ-terpinene, geranylacetone, and isobornyl acetate on neutrophil [Ca(2+)]i flux were inhibited by transient receptor potential (TRP) channel blockers. Furthermore, the most potent compound, geranylacetone, activated Ca(2+) influx in TRPV1-transfected HEK293 cells. In contrast, myristicin inhibited neutrophil [Ca(2+)]i flux stimulated by fMLF and IL-8 and inhibited capsaicin-induced Ca(2+) influx in TRPV1-transfected HEK293 cells. These findings, as well as pharmacophore modeling of TRP agonists, suggest that geranylacetone is a TRPV1 agonist, whereas myristicin is a TRPV1 antagonist. Thus, at least part of the medicinal properties of Ferula essential oils may be due to modulatory effects on TRP channels.

TRPA1 is functionally co-expressed with TRPV1 in cardiac muscle: Co-localization at z-discs, costameres and intercalated discs.

Transient receptor potential channels of the ankyrin subtype-1 (TRPA1) and vanilloid subtype-1 (TRPV1) are structurally related, non-selective cation channels that show a high permeability to calcium. Previous studies indicate that TRP channels play a prominent role in the regulation of cardiovascular dynamics and homeostasis, but also contribute to the pathophysiology of many diseases and disorders within the cardiovascular system. However, no studies to date have identified the functional expression and/or intracellular localization of TRPA1 in primary adult mouse ventricular cardiomyocytes (CMs). Although TRPV1 has been implicated in the regulation of cardiac function, there is a paucity of information regarding functional expression and localization of TRPV1 in adult CMs. Our current studies demonstrate that TRPA1 and TRPV1 ion channels are co-expressed at the protein level in CMs and both channels are expressed throughout the endocardium, myocardium and epicardium. Moreover, immunocytochemical localization demonstrates that both channels predominantly colocalize at the Z-discs, costameres and intercalated discs. Furthermore, specific TRPA1 and TRPV1 agonists elicit dose-dependent, transient rises in intracellular free calcium concentration ([Ca2+]i) that are abolished in CMs obtained from TRPA1-/- and TRPV1-/- mice. Similarly, we observed a dose-dependent attenuation of the TRPA1 and TRPV1 agonist-induced increase in [Ca2+]i when WT CMs were pretreated with increasing concentrations of selective TRPA1 or TRPV1 channel antagonists. In summary, these findings demonstrate functional expression and the precise ultrastructural localization of TRPA1 and TRPV1 ion channels in freshly isolated mouse CMs. Crosstalk between TRPA1 and TRPV1 may be important in mediating cellular signaling events in cardiac muscle.

Differential regulation of TRPV1 channels by H2O2: implications for diabetic microvascular dysfunction.

We demonstrated previously that TRPV1-dependent coupling of coronary blood flow (CBF) to metabolism is disrupted in diabetes. A critical amount of H2O2 contributes to CBF regulation; however, excessive H2O2 impairs responses. We sought to determine the extent to which differential regulation of TRPV1 by H2O2 modulates CBF and vascular reactivity in diabetes. We used contrast echocardiography to study TRPV1 knockout (V1KO), db/db diabetic, and wild type C57BKS/J (WT) mice. H2O2 dose-dependently increased CBF in WT mice, a response blocked by the TRPV1 antagonist SB366791. H2O2-induced vasodilation was significantly inhibited in db/db and V1KO mice. H2O2 caused robust SB366791-sensitive dilation in WT coronary microvessels; however, this response was attenuated in vessels from db/db and V1KO mice, suggesting H2O2-induced vasodilation occurs, in part, via TRPV1. Acute H2O2 exposure potentiated capsaicin-induced CBF responses and capsaicin-mediated vasodilation in WT mice, whereas prolonged luminal H2O2 exposure blunted capsaicin-induced vasodilation. Electrophysiology studies re-confirms acute H2O2 exposure activated TRPV1 in HEK293A and bovine aortic endothelial cells while establishing that H2O2 potentiate capsaicin-activated TRPV1 currents, whereas prolonged H2O2 exposure attenuated TRPV1 currents. Verification of H2O2-mediated activation of intrinsic TRPV1 specific currents were found in isolated mouse coronary endothelial cells from WT mice and decreased in endothelial cells from V1KO mice. These data suggest prolonged H2O2 exposure impairs TRPV1-dependent coronary vascular signaling. This may contribute to microvascular dysfunction and tissue perfusion deficits characteristic of diabetes.

Membrane translocation of TRPC6 channels and endothelial migration are regulated by calmodulin and PI3 kinase activation.

Lipid oxidation products, including lysophosphatidylcholine (lysoPC), activate canonical transient receptor potential 6 (TRPC6) channels leading to inhibition of endothelial cell (EC) migration in vitro and delayed EC healing of arterial injuries in vivo. The precise mechanism through which lysoPC activates TRPC6 channels is not known, but calmodulin (CaM) contributes to the regulation of TRPC channels. Using site-directed mutagenesis, cDNAs were generated in which Tyr(99) or Tyr(138) of CaM was replaced with Phe, generating mutant CaM, Phe(99)-CaM, or Phe(138)-CaM, respectively. In ECs transiently transfected with pcDNA3.1-myc-His-Phe(99)-CaM, but not in ECs transfected with pcDNA3.1-myc-His-Phe(138)-CaM, the lysoPC-induced TRPC6-CaM dissociation and TRPC6 externalization was disrupted. Also, the lysoPC-induced increase in intracellular calcium concentration was inhibited in ECs transiently transfected with pcDNA3.1-myc-His-Phe(99)-CaM. Blocking phosphorylation of CaM at Tyr(99) also reduced CaM association with the p85 subunit and subsequent activation of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K). This prevented the increase in phosphatidylinositol (3,4,5)-trisphosphate (PIP3) and the translocation of TRPC6 to the cell membrane and reduced the inhibition of EC migration by lysoPC. These findings suggest that lysoPC induces CaM phosphorylation at Tyr(99) by a Src family kinase and that phosphorylated CaM activates PI3K to produce PIP3, which promotes TRPC6 translocation to the cell membrane.

Propofol restores TRPV1 sensitivity via a TRPA1-, nitric oxide synthase-dependent activation of PKCε.

We previously demonstrated that the intravenous anesthetic, propofol, restores the sensitivity of transient receptor potential vanilloid channel subtype-1 (TRPV1) receptors via a protein kinase C epsilon (PKCε)-dependent and transient receptor potential ankyrin channel subtype-1 (TRPA1)-dependent pathway in sensory neurons. The extent to which the two pathways are directly linked or operating in parallel has not been determined. Using a molecular approach, our objectives of the current study were to confirm that TRPA1 activation directly results in PKCε activation and to elucidate the cellular mechanism by which this occurs. F-11 cells were transfected with complimentary DNA (cDNA) for TRPV1 only or both TRPV1 and TRPA1. Intracellular Ca(2+) concentration was measured in individual cells via fluorescence microscopy. An immunoblot analysis of the total and phosphorylated forms of PKCε, nitric oxide synthase (nNOS), and TRPV1 was also performed. In F-11 cells containing both channels, PKCε inhibition prevented the propofol- and allyl isothiocyanate (AITC)-induced restoration of TRPV1 sensitivity to agonist stimulation as well as increased phosphorylation of PKCε and TRPV1. In cells containing TRPV1 only, neither agonist induced PKCε or TRPV1 phosphorylation. Moreover, NOS inhibition blocked propofol-and AITC-induced restoration of TRPV1 sensitivity and PKCε phosphorylation, and PKCε inhibition prevented the nitric oxide donor, SNAP, from restoring TRPV1 sensitivity. Also, propofol-and AITC-induced phosphorylation of nNOS and nitric oxide (NO) production were blocked with the TRPA1-antagonist, HC-030031. These data indicate that the AITC- and propofol-induced restoration of TRPV1 sensitivity is mediated by a TRPA1-dependent, nitric oxide synthase-dependent activation of PKCε.

Propofol causes vasodilation in vivo via TRPA1 ion channels: role of nitric oxide and BKCa channels.

BACKGROUND: Transient receptor potential (TRP) ion channels of the A1 (TRPA1) and V1 (TRPV1) subtypes are key regulators of vasomotor tone. Propofol is an intravenous anesthetic known to cause vasorelaxation. Our objectives were to examine the extent to which TRPA1 and/or TRPV1 ion channels mediate propofol-induced depressor responses in vivo and to delineate the signaling pathway(s) involved. METHODS: Mice were subjected to surgery under 1.5-2.5% sevoflurane gas with supplemental oxygen. After a stable baseline in mean arterial pressure (MAP) was achieved propofol (2.5, 5.0, 10.0 mg/kg/min) was administered to assess the hemodynamic actions of the intravenous anesthetic. The effect of nitric oxide synthase (NOS) inhibition with L-NAME and/or calcium-gated K+ channel (BKCa) inhibition with Penetrim A (Pen A), alone and in combination, on propofol-induced decreases in mean arterial pressure were assessed in control C57Bl/6J, TRPA1-/-, TRPV1-/- and double-knockout mice (TRPAV-/-). RESULTS: Propofol decreased MAP in control mice and this effect was markedly attenuated in TRPA1-/- and TRPAV-/- mice but unaffected in TRPV1-/-mice. Moreover, pretreatment with L-NAME or Pen A attenuated the decrease in MAP in control and TRPV1-/- mice, and combined inhibition abolished the depressor response. In contrast, the markedly attenuated propofol-induced depressor response observed in TRPA1-/- and TRPAV-/- mice was unaffected by pre-treatment with Pen A or L-NAME when used either alone or in combination. CONCLUSION: These data demonstrate for the first time that propofol-induced depressor responses in vivo are predominantly mediated by TRPA1 ion channels with no involvement of TRPV1 ion channels and includes activation of both NOS and BKCa channels.

α-Synemin localizes to the M-band of the sarcomere through interaction with the M10 region of titin.

α-Synemin contains a unique 312 amino acid insert near the end of its C-terminal tail. Therefore we set out to determine if the insert is a site of protein-protein interaction that regulates the sub-cellular localization of this large isoform of synemin. Yeast-two hybrid analysis indicated that this region is a binding site for the M10 region of titin. This was confirmed with GST pull-down assays. Co-immunoprecipitation of endogenous proteins indicated close association of the two proteins in vivo and immunostaining of cardiomyocytes demonstrated co-localization of the proteins at the M-band of the sarcomere.

Disruption of TRPV1-mediated coupling of coronary blood flow to cardiac metabolism in diabetic mice: role of nitric oxide and BK channels.

We have previously shown transient receptor potential vanilloid subtype 1 (TRPV1) channel-dependent coronary function is compromised in pigs with metabolic syndrome (MetS). However, the mechanisms through which TRPV1 channels couple coronary blood flow to metabolism are not fully understood. We employed mice lacking TRPV1 [TRPV1((-/-))], db/db diabetic, and control C57BKS/J mice to determine the extent to which TRPV1 channels modulate coronary function and contribute to vascular dysfunction in diabetic cardiomyopathy. Animals were subjected to in vivo infusion of the TRPV1 agonist capsaicin to examine the hemodynamic actions of TRPV1 activation. Capsaicin (1-100 µg·kg(-1)·min(-1)) dose dependently increased coronary blood flow in control mice, which was inhibited by the TRPV1 antagonist capsazepine or the nitric oxide synthase (NOS) inhibitor N-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME). In addition, the capsaicin-mediated increase in blood flow was attenuated in db/db mice. TRPV1((-/-)) mice exhibited no changes in coronary blood flow in response to capsaicin. Vasoreactivity studies in isolated pressurized mouse coronary microvessels revealed a capsaicin-dependent relaxation that was inhibited by the TRPV1 inhibitor SB366791 l-NAME and to the large conductance calcium-sensitive potassium channel (BK) inhibitors iberiotoxin and Penetrim A. Similar to in vivo responses, capsaicin-mediated relaxation was impaired in db/db mice compared with controls. Changes in pH (pH 7.4-6.0) relaxed coronary vessels contracted to the thromboxane mimetic U46619 in all three groups of mice; however, pH-mediated relaxation was blunted in vessels obtained from TRPV1((-/-)) and db/db mice compared with controls. Western blot analysis revealed decreased myocardial TRPV1 protein expression in db/db mice compared with controls. Our data reveal TRPV1 channels mediate coupling of myocardial blood flow to cardiac metabolism via a nitric oxide-dependent, BK channel-dependent pathway that is corrupted in diabetes.

Endothelin-mediated in vivo pressor responses following TRPV1 activation.

Transient receptor potential vanilliod 1 (TRPV1) channels have recently been postulated to play a role in the vascular complications/consequences associated with diabetes despite the fact that the mechanisms through which TRPV1 regulates vascular function are not fully known. Accordingly, our goal was to define the mechanisms by which TRPV1 channels modulate vascular function and contribute to vascular dysfunction in diabetes. We subjected mice lacking TRPV1 [TRPV1((-/-))], db/db, and control C57BLKS/J mice to in vivo infusion of the TRPV1 agonist capsaicin or the α-adrenergic agonist phenylephrine (PE) to examine the integrated circulatory actions of TRPV1. Capsaicin (1, 10, 20, and 100 µg/kg) dose dependently increased MAP in control mice (5.7 ± 1.6, 11.7 ± 2.1, 25.4 ± 3.4, and 51.6 ± 3.9%), which was attenuated in db/db mice (3.4 ± 2.1, 3.9 ± 2.1, 7.0 ± 3.3, and 17.9 ± 6.2%). TRPV1((-/-)) mice exhibited no changes in MAP in response to capsaicin, suggesting the actions of this agonist are specific to TRPV1 activation. Immunoblot analysis revealed decreased aortic TRPV1 protein expression in db/db compared with control mice. Capsaicin-induced responses were recorded following inhibition of endothelin A and B receptors (ET(A) /ET(B)). Inhibition of ET(A) receptors abolished the capsaicin-mediated increases in MAP. Combined antagonism of ET(A) and ET(B) receptors did not further inhibit the capsaicin response. Cultured endothelial cell exposure to capsaicin increased endothelin production as shown by an endothelin ELISA assay, which was attenuated by inhibition of TRPV1 or endothelin-converting enzyme. TRPV1 channels contribute to the regulation of vascular reactivity and MAP via production of endothelin and subsequent activation of vascular ET(A) receptors. Impairment of TRPV1 channel function may contribute to vascular dysfunction in diabetes.

Propofol restores transient receptor potential vanilloid receptor subtype-1 sensitivity via activation of transient receptor potential ankyrin receptor subtype-1 in sensory neurons.

BACKGROUND: Cross talk between peripheral nociceptors belonging to the transient receptor potential vanilloid receptor subtype-1 (TRPV1) and ankyrin subtype-1 (TRPA1) family has been demonstrated recently. Moreover, the intravenous anesthetic propofol has directly activates TRPA1 receptors and indirectly restores sensitivity of TRPV1 receptors in dorsal root ganglion (DRG) sensory neurons. Our objective was to determine the extent to which TRPA1 activation is involved in mediating the propofol-induced restoration of TRPV1 sensitivity. METHODS: Mouse DRG neurons were isolated by enzymatic dissociation and grown for 24 h. F-11 cells were transfected with complementary DNA for both TRPV1 and TRPA1 or TRPV1 only. The intracellular Ca concentration was measured in individual cells via fluorescence microscopy. After TRPV1 desensitization with capsaicin (100 nM), cells were treated with propofol (1, 5, and 10 µM) alone or with propofol in the presence of the TRPA1 antagonist, HC-030031 (0.5 µM), or the TRPA1 agonist, allyl isothiocyanate (AITC; 100 µM); capsaicin was then reapplied. RESULTS: In DRG neurons that contain both TRPV1 and TRPA1, propofol and AITC restored TRPV1 sensitivity. However, in DRG neurons containing only TRPV1 receptors, exposure to propofol or AITC after desensitization did not restore capsaicin-induced TRPV1 sensitivity. Similarly, in F-11 cells transfected with both TRPV1 and TRPA1, propofol and AITC restored TRPV1 sensitivity. However, in F-11 cells transfected with TRPV1 only, neither propofol nor AITC was capable of restoring TRPV1 sensitivity. CONCLUSIONS: These data demonstrate that propofol restores TRPV1 sensitivity in primary DRG neurons and in cultured F-11 cells transfected with both the TRPV1 and TRPA1 receptors via a TRPA1-dependent process. Propofol's effects on sensory neurons may be clinically important and may contribute to peripheral sensitization to nociceptive stimuli in traumatized tissue.