Variability of non-clinical behavioral CNS safety assessment: An intercompany comparison.

INTRODUCTION: Irwin/FOB testing is routinely conducted to investigate the neurofunctional integrity of laboratory animals during preclinical development of new drugs, however, the study design frequently varies to meet specific needs. Representatives of several European-based pharmaceutical companies performed a "state-of-the-art" assessment of how they conduct their CNS safety evaluation using Irwin/FOB tests. METHODS: This assessment consisted of (1) a survey of current/historical practice, (2) an evaluation of historical studies with reference compounds (amphetamine, chlorpromazine) to determine intercompany reproducibility of results, and (3) an interlaboratory test using reference compounds (MK-801, chlorpromazine) to determine whether partially standardized conditions (animals, sex, doses, vehicles, administration route, observation time points, systemic exposure) might reduce variability of results. RESULTS: Our survey revealed several similarities, e.g., main endpoints of home cage and openfield observations, species, and positive control substances, but also a high level of heterogeneity between different companies with regard to behavioral endpoints during handling and reflex testing, scoring, group size, and timing of studies. Analysis of heterogeneously designed historical studies with amphetamine and chlorpromazine showed the anticipated behavioral changes, albeit with quantitative variability, and identified more robust (e.g., activity, posture, muscle tone, startle reflex, body temperature) and less robust (piloerection, stereotypical behavior, palpebral closure, respiration) Irwin/FOB parameters. A partially standardized interlaboratory test with MK-801 and chlorpromazine showed the expected behavioral changes and principally confirmed the historically-based more/less robust Irwin/FOB parameters, however, it also showed exposure variability and did not show a markedly reduced quantitative variability of behavioral results. DISCUSSION: Our survey and intercompany test results demonstrate certain heterogeneity in design and conduct of Irwin/FOB tests by pharmaceutical companies. Although the general behavioral profiles for the reference compounds were consistently found, quantitative variability of results remained even under partially standardized conditions. This suggests the importance of a high level of standardization with regard to the Irwin/FOB test modification used, scoring system, and observer training, in order to achieve an improved intercompany comparability of Irwin/FOB results.

Cardiac safety of lacosamide: the non-clinical perspective.

OBJECTIVES: Lacosamide is indicated for the adjunctive treatment of partial-onset seizures in adult patients. Unlike other sodium channel-blocking antiepileptic drugs, lacosamide selectively enhances sodium channel slow inactivation. Potential effects of lacosamide on cardiac sodium channels and their cardiovascular consequences were comprehensively assessed. This manuscript presents the non-clinical cardiac safety profile of lacosamide. METHODS: Lacosamide was tested in vitro on sodium and L-type calcium currents from isolated human atrial myocytes and on hERG-mediated potassium currents from stably transfected HEK293 cells. Cardiac action potentials were recorded in guinea pig ventricular myocytes. In vivo, hemodynamic and ECG parameters were evaluated in anesthetized dogs and monkeys receiving acute cumulative intravenous doses of lacosamide. RESULTS: Following intravenous dosing with lacosamide, dose-dependent PR and QRS prolongation and ECG abnormalities (loss of P waves, atrioventricular and intraventricular blocks, junctional premature contractions) were observed in anesthetized dogs and monkeys. In vitro, lacosamide reduced human cardiac sodium currents in a concentration-, voltage- and state-dependent manner. Lacosamide reductions in Vmax in guinea pig myocytes were similar to lamotrigine and carbamazepine. Lacosamide showed no relevant inhibitory effects on hERG and L-type calcium channels and did not prolong QTc in vivo. CONCLUSIONS: ECG findings in anesthetized animals correlate well with in vitro sodium channel-related effects and are also consistent with those (PR prolongation, first-degree atrioventricular block) reported in healthy volunteers and patients with epilepsy. Both in vivo and in vitro effects were detected from exposure levels 1.5- to 2-fold above those achieved with the maximum-recommended human lacosamide dose (400 mg/day).

Comparison of two methods (left carotid artery and abdominal aorta) for surgical implantation of radiotelemetry devices in CD-1 mice.

The goal of this study was to compare two surgical methods, the left carotid (LC) and the abdominal aorta (AA), for mouse instrumentation with telemetry devices, to determine the best method for measuring cardiovascular (CV) parameters by radiotelemetry in freely moving mice. Surgery success rate, postsurgical recovery rate, clinical parameters, CV data (baseline and response to nicotine) and circadian rhythm measurements were compared between these techniques. Brains of LC-implanted mice were evaluated for potential ischaemia by direct observation of the Circle of Willis anatomy and histopathology. For this purpose, a total of 31 CD-1 male mice were instrumented with PA C20 devices (10 with LC and 21 with AA). Mortality, morbidity, physical examination, body weight (BW), water and food consumption (W/FC), mean blood pressure (MBP) and heart rate (HR) were monitored daily during the recovery period (10 days). CV baseline data were recorded continuously during two periods of four days, and finally, both LC- and AA-implanted mice received an acute subcutaneous administration of 1 mg/kg nicotine; BP and HR were recorded during 5 h after nicotine administration. Results showed that, in LC-implanted mice, 80% survived surgery and recovered well. In contrast, only 57% of mice implanted with the AA technique survived surgery and some presented lethal complications. Both techniques had similar recovery times for BW and W/FC, comparable return to normal circadian rhythm (day 6 post-surgery) and similar CV baseline values. No significant differences were observed in CV response to nicotine between both groups of implanted CD-1 mice. No histopathological changes suggestive of ischaemia were noted in the brain of mice implanted in the LC. Six out of the eight LC-implanted mice remained in good health and had good pressure signal for at least 100 days post-surgery, while most of the AA-implanted mice lost the signal pressure within 14-49 days post-surgery. In conclusion, we believe that LC implantation in mice is superior to the AA technique and is more appropriate for long-term telemetry studies, especially for smaller (transgenic) animals.

In vitro inhibitory effect of SR 27417, a potent platelet-activating factor (PAF) receptor antagonist, on the PAF-induced bovine platelet aggregation.

The in vitro inhibitory effect of SR 27417, an antagonist of the platelet-activating factor (PAF) receptor, on PAF-induced platelet aggregation was studied in blood collected from seven healthy Friesien calves. Inhibitory effects of SR 27417 were determined at thirteen different concentrations (0.1-400 nM) by using the dose-response curves of PAF on calf platelet aggregation. In the presence of SR 27417, the maximal slopes of aggregation (%/min) induced by low and high concentrations of PAF were significantly different from the control values obtained without an antagonist at p < or = 0.05 and p < or = 0.01 respectively. In vitro PAF-induced calf platelet aggregation was dose-dependently inhibited by SR 27417. The drug inhibited PAF-induced platelet aggregation in a competitive reversible manner (pA2 = 10.46 +/- 2.36 mol x L(-1)). In conclusion, the results of our study showed that addition of SR 27417 to bovine platelet in vitro inhibits PAF-induced platelet aggregation.

Inflammatory effect of intratracheal instillation of ultrafine particles in the rabbit: role of C-fiber and mast cells.

The effects of ultrafine polystyrene carboxylate-modified (fluorospheres) on inflammatory processes are being investigated in rabbit lungs. One milliliter of sterile NaCl (0.9%) containing 4 mg of ultrafine particles (UFP) was intratracheally instilled into anesthetized rabbits. The control animals were only instilled with sterile NaCl (0.9%). Twenty hours after being instilled, the rabbits were killed and their lungs were excised and then tracheally perfused with phosphate-buffered physiological solution (PBS). The lung effluents, collected from small holes made in the pleura, were analyzed for substance P (SP) and histamine content by radioimmunoassay (RIA) methods, after administration of drugs. In addition, in other groups of rabbits, the lung wet/dry (W/D) weight ratio was monitored, as were the cellular and protein contents in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL). Electron microscopy examination was also performed. In tracheally superfused experiments, UFP induced a significant enhancement of both SP and histamine releases after administration of capsaicin (10(-4) M), to stimulate C-fiber, and carbachol (10(-4) M), a cholinergic agonist. A significant increase in histamine release was also recorded in the UFP-instilled group following the administration of both SP (10(-6) M) plus thiorphan (10(-5) M) and compound 48/80 (C48/80) (10(-3) M) to stimulate mast cells. In addition, the BAL fluid analysis of UFP groups showed an influx of neutrophils and an increase in total protein concentration. An increase in the lung WW/DW ratio was also recorded. Both epithelial and endothelial injuries were observed in the lungs of UFP-instilled rabbits. The pretreatment of rabbits in vivo with a mixture of either SR 140333 and SR 48368, a tachykinin NK(1) and NK(2) receptor antagonist, or a mixture of terfenadine and cimetidine, a histamine H(1) and H(2) receptor antagonist, prevented UFP- induced neutrophil influx and increased total proteins and lung WW/DW ratio. Therefore, it can be concluded that chemicaly inert, electrically charged UFP induce a pulmonary inflammatory process during which the release of SP and histamine from C-fibers and mast cells was enhanced after various stimuli. These latter mediators can also modulate the inflammatory process.

Interactions between cytochrome P-450 activities and ozone-induced modulatory effects on endothelial permeability in rabbit lungs: influence of gender.

The effects of rabbit exposure to ozone (O(3)) (0.4 ppm for 4 h) on two different cytochrome P-450 (CYP450)-dependent activities were investigated. In turn, the role of CYP450 in the inhibitory effect of O(3) on acetylcholine (ACh)-evoked increase in endothelial permeability was also assessed. Immediately after the period of exposure, rabbits of both sexes were sacrificed and their lungs were extracted. Some lungs were used for preparation of microsomes and measurement of 7-ethoxyresorufin O-deethylase (EROD) and parathion oxidase activities. Other rabbit lungs were isolated and recirculatingly blood-free perfused. Arterial, venous pressures, and lung weight were continuously recorded. Capillary pressure was measured by applying the double occlusion method. Capillary filtration coefficient (K(f,c)) was evaluated by measuring the amount of fluid filtering through the endothelium when vascular pressures were suddenly increased. Dose-response curves to ACh were constructed in air- or O(3)-exposed rabbits. Some animals were pretreated with piperonyl butoxide (PBO), a well-known inhibitor of CYP450. O(3) significantly reduced both EROD and parathion oxidase lung microsomal activities in females, while it had no effect in males. Exposure to O(3) strongly inhibited the ACh-induced increase in K(f,c). Pretreatment with PBO reversed the modulatory effect of O(3) on endothelial permeability in male rabbits, but not in females. It was concluded (1) that inhibition of 2 different CYP450-dependent activities after exposure to 0.4 ppm O(3) for 4 h appears to be a gender-dependent phenomenon, and (2) that CYP450 is probably involved in the O(3)-evoked inhibitory mechanism against ACh-induced increase in endothelial permeability, but only in males.

Modulatory effect of imetit, a histamine H3 receptor agonist, on C-fibers, cholinergic fibers and mast cells in rabbit lungs in vitro.

The pharmacological mechanisms involved in the interactions between C-fibers, cholinergic fibers and mast cells were investigated in tracheally perfused rabbit lungs by measuring the simultaneous release of substance P and histamine in lung effluents. The amounts of substance P and histamine released in lung superfusates were measured by radioimmunoassay (RIA) after administration of capsaicin and carbachol. Capsaicin (10(-4) M) induced a simultaneous increase in substance P (273 +/- 56% of baseline) and histamine (460 +/- 138%) release. Similarly, carbachol (10(-4) M) caused an increase in the release of both substance P (367 +/- 111%) and histamine (1379 +/- 351%). The effect of capsaicin was prevented by pretreating the lungs with the tachykinin NK1 receptor antagonist SR 140333 (10(-7) M), and atropine (10(-6) M). SR 140333 prevented the carbachol-induced release of substance P but not of histamine. Exogenous substance P induced an increase in histamine release (136 +/- 7%) which was significantly greater in lungs perfused with the neutral endopeptidase inhibitor, thiorphan (10(-5) M) (272 +/- 35%). This effect was prevented by atropine (10(-6) M). Pretreatment of lungs with imetit (5 x 10(-8) M), a selective H3 receptor agonist, prevented the capsaicin-induced release of both mediators. Imetit also blocked the carbachol-induced release of substance P but not of histamine. Exogenous substance P-evoked histamine release was inhibited by imetit. Therefore, it can be concluded that substance P released through the action of capsaicin can activate cholinergic fibers, leading to cholinoceptor stimulation with subsequent activation of C-fibers and mast cells. While the presence of presynaptic H3 receptors modulating substance P-induced acetylcholine release was only surmised, the existence of modulating histamine H3 receptors on C-fibers was confirmed.

Identification of mechanisms involved in the acute airway toxicity induced by parathion.

Organophosphates are still widely used worldwide and cause thousands of intoxications every year. In this work we investigated the mechanisms of parathion (Pth) airway toxicity, using biochemical and functional approaches. A plethysmographic technique for unrestrained guinea pigs was used to analyze Pth-induced modifications of airway mechanics and responsiveness to acetylcholine (ACh: 0.1-3.2 mg/ml, 2-min inhalation each dose). The isolated perfused rabbit lung preparation was used to study the acute effects of Pth on airway responsiveness to ACh (10(-8)-10(-3) M), histamine (10(-8)-10(-3) M) and substance P (10(-10)-10(-6) M), pulmonary acetylcholinesterase inhibition and cytochrome P450 (P450) activity, and their modifications with previous administration of Pth (1 mg/kg s.c. daily, 7 days). We found that: (1) In guinea pigs Pth (3.2-17 mg/kg i.p.) produced a dose-dependent increase in a lung resistance index (iRL), which was greatly reverted (approximately 50%) by salbutamol (2 mg/ml, 2-min inhalation, or 10 microg/kg i.p.). This salbutamol effect was transient (5-10 min), suggesting that this bronchodilator triggered additional obstructive mechanisms. (2) Pth increased the water content in lung parenchyma samples, but not in trachea or bronchi, and augmented the respiratory secretions measured through monosaccharide content in bronchoalveolar lavage. (3) The increase in iRL was greater in female animals, probably due to a higher P450 basal activity, and completely blocked by pharmacological inhibition of P450 with piperonyl butoxide (500 mg/kg i.p.). (4) In male guinea pigs a subclinical dose of Pth (10 mg/kg i.p.) induced airway hyperresponsiveness to ACh. In isolated perfused rabbit lung Pth (10(-6) M) produced airway hyperresponsiveness to ACh and histamine, the latter prevented by atropine (10(-5) M). (5) Repetitive exposure to subclinical doses (1 mg/kg s.c.) of Pth during 1 week caused approximately 80% inhibition of P450 activity in rabbits, which was not enough, however, to prevent the functional manifestation of Pth toxicity in the airways.

Short-term Toxicity of Various Pharmacological Agents on the In Vitro Nitrification Process in a Simple Closed Aquatic System.

During the treatment of fish diseases, drugs which inhibit the nitrification process can cause acute ammonia toxicity. The same phenomenon can occur when fish are put into a tank without active cultures of nitrifying bacteria. The purpose of this study was to quantify the inhibitory effects of 15 pharmacological agents, which are often used as therapeutic agents in ichthyopathology, on ammonia removal and nitrate production in a simple closed aquatic system. The experiments were conducted in polyethylene bags containing activated biofilters and synthetic water solutions, held in a water bath. Ammonia was added to initiate the nitrification process, and graded concentrations of various pharmacological agents were added. The effects of the pharmacological agents on in vitro nitrification were assessed by monitoring ammonia and nitrate concentrations compared to controls with no added agents, for 24 hours. Graded concentrations of ampicillin (Albipen®), chloramine T, enrofloxacin (Baytril®), erythromycin, levamisole, methylene blue and polymyxin B induced dose-dependent inhibitions of ammonia removal and nitrate production. The corresponding linear regression curves showed high correlation coefficients and were highly significant (p < 0.05). The addition of chloramphenicol, copper (II ) sulphate, kanamycin disulphate, malachite green, neomycin sulphate, potassium penicillin G, tetracycline and a mixture of trimethoprim and sulphadoxin (Duoprim™) had no significant effects on the nitrification process. A significant dose-related inhibition of nitrate production, but not of ammonia oxidation, was observed with enrofloxacin. The significant correlation (r = 0.940; p < 0.001) between the degrees of inhibition of ammonia oxidation and nitrate production for the various inhibitory pharmacological agents has also been calculated, with a view to validating this method. The data presented suggest that separate tank facilities for hospitalisation or quarantine are necessary when treating diseased fish with ampicillin, enrofloxacin, chloramine T, erythromycin, levamisole, methylene blue or polymyxin B, in order to avoid ammonia poisoning.

Radioimmunoassay of substance P in lung perfusate.

A radioimmunoassay of the undecapeptide substance P (SP) and its application in rabbit lung superfusate has been developed. The assay was based on the use of a radioactive tracer, 125I-SP-Tyr8, which showed, with an excess of antibodies, a specific binding greater than 90% and a nonspecific binding lower than 2%. This tracer was stable for 4 weeks at -20 degrees C. Its specific radioactivity was 384 Ci/mmol. The assay's lower limit of detection was 10 pg/ml (0.7 fmol). The determination of SP in rabbit lung perfusate required extraction and concentration using octadecylsilane cartridges. Under these conditions, the recovery of SP from experiments on lung perfusates (n=4) was 75.0+/-4.5%, and the intraassay and interassay coefficients of variation were 7.3+/-1.9% and 10.7+/-1.3%, respectively. Amounts of SP released in rabbit lung perfusates were determined following stimulation of pulmonary C fibers with capsaicin (10(-4) M). During the stimulation period, the values of SP from lung perfusates (n=6) increased significantly when compared with baseline values.

Comparison of ozone-induced effects on lung mechanics and hemodynamics in the rabbit.

The effects of rabbit exposure to ozone (O3)(0.4 ppm for 4 h) on pulmonary mechanical properties and hemodynamics have been investigated on the isolated perfused lung model. Tracheal pressure, airflow, and tidal volume were measured in order to calculate lung resistance (RL) and dynamic compliance (Cdyn). Using the arterial/venous/double occlusion method, the total pressure gradient (deltaPT) was partitioned into four components (arterial, pre-, postcapillary and venous). Dose-response curves to acetylcholine (ACh), substance P (SP), and histamine were constructed in lungs isolated from rabbits immediately or 48 h after air or O3 exposure O3 induced a significant increase in the baseline value of deltaPt, more markedly 48 h after the exposure. Immediately after the exposure, O3 partly inhibited the ACh-, SP-, and histamine-induced decreases in Cdyn and increases in RL. This inhibitory effect was still in part present 48 h after O3 treatment. In the groups studied immediately after exposure, O3 did not significantly modify the ACh-, SP-, and histamine-induced vasoconstriction. Forty-eight hours after exposure, O3 induced a contractile response to ACh and SP in the arterial segment but decreased the response to histamine. We conclude that O3 can induce direct vascular constriction. Directly, but also 48 h after exposure, O3 can inhibit the ACh-, SP-, and histamine-induced changes in lung mechanical properties. Ozone can also induce some changes in the intensity and in the location of the vascular responses to ACh, SP, and histamine.

Ozone-induced stimulation of pulmonary sympathetic fibers: a protective mechanism against edema.

Tropospheric ozone exerts well-described toxic effects on the respiratory tract. Less documented, by contrast, is the ability of ozone to induce protective mechanisms against agents that are toxic to the lungs. In particular, interactions between ozone and the sympathetic nervous system have never been considered. Using a model of permeability edema in isolated perfused rabbit lungs, we report here that, immediately after exposure of rabbits to 0.4 ppm ozone for 4 hr, the pulmonary microvascular responses to acetylcholine and substance P are completely blocked. Several lines of evidence, including partial inhibition of the ozone-induced protective effect by several drugs (alpha2- and beta-adrenergic antagonists, neuropeptide Y antagonist, guanethidine), measured levels of released catecholamines in blood and urine and the in vitro response of isolated lungs exposed to 0.4 ppm ozone all seem to suggest that ozone can stimulate pulmonary adrenergic fibers and induce the local release of catecholamines and neuropeptide Y, this resulting in transient protection against pulmonary edema. We also showed that, 48 hr after the exposure, ozone increased the baseline microvascular permeability and the response to low concentrations of acetylcholine.

Relationship between parathion and paraoxon toxicokinetics, lung metabolic activity, and cholinesterase inhibition in guinea pig and rabbit lungs.

Kinetic parameters of parathion and paraoxon uptake were determined in isolated and perfused rabbit and guinea pig lungs. They were related to organophosphate-induced lung cholinesterase inhibition. A single pass procedure was used to perfuse the lungs with an artificial medium perfusate containing paraoxon or parathion. The paraoxon and parathion concentrations were determined in the effluents collected at chosen intervals over an 18-min period beginning at the start of perfusion. Three inflowing concentrations (1 nmol/ml, 10 nmol/ml, and 20 nmol/ml) were tested in guinea pig lungs and one (10 nmol/ml) in rabbit lungs. Cholinesterase activity was determined at time 0 and at the end of the experiment. The lungs abundantly extracted paraoxon and parathion over the perfusion period. The extraction ratio was consistently greater in guinea pig than in rabbit lungs. The uptake velocity varied biexponentially in time, suggesting the existence of two compartments. Initial uptake velocities (A, B) and slopes (alpha and beta) were calculated for both compartments. In guinea pigs, A, B and A + B increased proportionally to the supply rate of paraoxon and parathion while a and b remained constant. No significant difference was observed between parathion and paraoxon uptake kinetics. Parameter B was the only one to differ significantly between the two species (rabbits: 8.19 +/- 1.53 for parathion and 6.85 +/- 1.26 for paraoxon; guinea pigs: 12.75 +/- 0.88 for parathion and 15.02 +/- 3.84 for paraoxon). In the lungs of both species, there was a linear relation between y, the percentage of cholinesterase inhibition induced by either organophosphate, and X, the total amount of drug taken up by the lung tissue (in nmol/g/18 min). The following equations were obtained: y = 0.128 x + 0.979 (R2 = 0.89, p < 0.001 for paraoxon); y = 0.120 x - 6.57 (R2 = 0.82, p < 0.005 for parathion). No difference was observed between the two organophosphates. After treatment with the cytochrome P450 inhibitor piperonyl butoxide, the above relations ceased to apply, but this treatment did not influence the kinetics of paraoxon and parathion uptake. The IC50 value calculated for paraoxon, i.e., the paraoxon concentration required to produce 50% inhibition of lung cholinesterase activity, was similar for guinea pigs (2.22 10(-7) +/- 0.22 M) and rabbits (2.36 10(-7) +/- 0.24 M). In conclusion, the biexponential evolution of the velocity of paraoxon and parathion uptake by the lungs thus demonstrates the presence of two pools. The lower extraction ratios calculated for rabbit lungs reflect the lower initial uptake velocity of the second compartment. In the range of concentrations investigated in guinea pigs, no saturable mechanism could be demonstrated for paraoxon and parathion. Cytochrome P450-related lung metabolic activity, through which parathion is converted to paraoxon, appears as a major step in parathion-induced lung cholinesterase inhibition, although it does not appear to affect parathion toxicokinetics.

Interactions between acetylcholine and substance P effects on lung mechanics in the rabbit.

The pharmacological mechanisms involved in the acetylcholine (ACh)- and substance P (SP)-induced changes in pulmonary mechanics were studied in isolated perfused rabbit lungs. Tracheal pressure (Ptr) and airflow were measured by a Fleisch pneumotachograph and pressure transducers. Air volume, lung resistance (RL) and dynamic compliance (Cdyn) were calculated. ACh induced a dose-dependent increase in Ptr and RL, and a decrease in Cdyn. These effects were strongly prevented by atropine, and partly by SR140333, a neurokinin NK1 receptor antagonist; SR48968, a neurokinin NK2 receptor antagonist; indomethacin and antihistaminics. Ketanserin had no significant protective effect against ACh. SP also induced concentration-dependent increases in RL and decreases in Cdyn. SR140333 and atropine strongly inhibited the effects of SP, while ketanserin, SR48968, antihistaminics and indomethacin did not protect the lungs against this drug. 5-hydroxytryptamine induced no significant change in lung mechanic parameters. Cumulative concentrations of histamine increased RL and decreased Cdyn. We conclude that ACh-induced changes in lung resistance and compliance are in part mediated by a direct effect on airway smooth muscle and in part by the stimulation of C fibers, by the release of histamine from mast cells and by the synthesis of arachidonic acid metabolites. In turn, the effects of SP on lung mechanics are partly due to cholinergic activation.

Endogenous nitric oxide modulates acetylcholine-induced edema and vasoconstriction in isolated perfused rabbit lungs.

The modulatory role of endogenous nitric oxide (NO) on pulmonary edema induced by acetylcholine (ACh), capsaicin, substance P (SP) and 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) was investigated by using an inhibitor of NO synthase, N-omega-nitro-L-arginine (L-NNA). The effects of endogenous NO on the hemodynamic response to ACh, 5-HT and SP were also investigated. The capillary filtration coefficient (Kf,c), the total pressure gradient (delta Pt) and its four components [arterial (delta Pa), pre- (delta Pa') and post-capillary (delta Pv'), and venous gradient (delta Pv)] were evaluated on isolated, ventilated, perfused rabbit lungs. ACh (10(-8) to 10(-4) M) and SP (10(-10) to 10(-6) M) induced a concentration-dependent increase in the Kf,c. Capsaicin (10(-4) M) and 5-HT (10(-4) M) also increased this parameter. L-NNA (10(-4) M) completely inhibited the effects of ACh and capsaicin on the Kf,c, without preventing the effects of SP and 5-HT. ACh induced a concentration-dependent vasoconstriction in the precapillary segment. Pretreatment with L-NNA enhanced this increase in delta Pa' but also increased delta Pv' and delta Pv. 5-HT increased delta Pt and delta Pa proportionally to the concentration. This effect was enhanced by L-NNA, which also increased delta Pa'. SP had no significant hemodynamic effect. Pretreatment with L-NNA did not modify the response to SP. Sodium nitroprusside (10(-5) M) induced a left shift of the concentration-response curve to ACh on the Kf,c, although it did not change the response to SP. Sodium nitroprusside also inhibited the hemodynamic effect of ACh. It was concluded that endogenous NO is involved in ACh-and capsaicin-induced edema via a prejunctional stimulatory effect on the C-fibers. Endogenous NO can also modulate ACh- and 5-HT-induced vasoconstriction by exerting a vasodilator action on the whole pulmonary vascular bed.

Protective effect of various antagonists of inflammatory mediators against paraoxon-induced pulmonary edema in the rabbit.

The protective effect of some antagonists of various inflammatory mediators against paraoxon-induced increases in endothelial permeability has been investigated in isolated perfused rabbit lungs. The edema induced by paraoxon has been previously related to a chain reaction mediated by acetylcholine. Lungs were ventilated and blood-free perfused with a constant flow. Arterial and venous pressures and lung weight were continuously recorded. Endothelial permeability was evaluated by measuring the capillary filtration coefficient (Kf,c). Paraoxon (4 x 10(-4) M) was injected in the perfusion circuit, in lungs with or without pretreatment with atropine, ketanserin, clonidine, morphine, indomethacin, and terfenadine plus cimetidine. Paraoxon induced a time-dependent increase in the Kf,c, a maximal effect being recorded 60 min after the injection. All the antagonists used as pretreatment significantly reduced the maximal effect recorded after paraoxon. These results show that muscarinic receptor antagonists, inhibitors of neuropeptides release, cyclooxygenase inhibitors, and 5-hydroxytryptamine and histamine receptor antagonists can protect the lung against the edema induced by paraoxon. This protective effect is due to inhibition of the chain reaction triggered by acetylcholine.

Modulation of acetylcholine, capsaicin and substance P effects by histamine H3 receptors in isolated perfused rabbit lungs.

The modulatory role of histamine H3 receptors in pulmonary oedema induced by acetylcholine, capsaicin and by exogenous substance P was investigated in isolated, ventilated rabbit lungs. Endothelial permeability was evaluated by measuring the capillary filtration coefficient (Kf,c). Acetylcholine (10(-8) to 10(-4) M), substance P (10(-10) to 10(-6) M), capsaicin (10(-4) M) and 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) (10(-4) M) induced an increase in the Kf,c. Carboperamide, a novel histamine H3 receptor antagonist, induced a significant leftward shift of the concentration-response curve to acetylcholine and also enhanced the effect of capsaicin on the Kf,c, while it had no significant effect on the response to substance P and 5-HT. Imetit, a new histamine H3 receptor agonist, strongly inhibited the effects of acetylcholine and capsaicin. Imetit also strongly protected the lung against substance P effects but did not prevent the 5-HT-induced increase in the Kf,c. Carboperamide completely blocked the inhibitory effect of Imetit on the acetylcholine response. (R)-alpha-Methylhistamine, an other histamine H3 receptor agonist, had the same protective effect against acetylcholine response as Imetit. We conclude that histamine H3 receptors could protect the lung against acetylcholine- and capsaicin-induced oedema via a prejunctional modulatory effect on the C-fibres. However, since the response to exogenous substance P was also inhibited by histamine H3 receptor stimulation, the presence of such receptors at a postsynaptic level, probably on mast cells, was also suggested.

Mechanisms of substance P-induced pulmonary oedema in the rabbit: interactions between parasympathetic and excitatory NANC nerves.

The pharmacological mechanisms involved in the substance P (SP)-induced pulmonary oedema were studied in isolated perfused rabbit lungs. Substance P induced a dose-dependent increase in the capillary filtration coefficient (Kf,c), responsible for oedema. Atropine, hemicholinium-3 and ruthenium red pretreatment partly protected the lungs against SP effects, while tetrodotoxin and hexamethonium did not significantly modify them. (+/-)CP96,345, a NK1 receptor antagonist, completely inhibited the SP-induced increase in the Kf,c. Like SP, acetylcholine (ACh) and capsaicin also increased the Kf,c. Atropine and (+/-)CP96,345 completely blocked the oedema induced by both drugs. Tetrodotoxin and ruthenium red strongly inhibited the response to capsaicin and acetylcholine. It was concluded that SP-induced pulmonary oedema is in part mediated by a stimulating action on cholinergic efferent nerves, with subsequent release of endogenous acetylcholine. Acetylcholine can, in turn, stimulate the release of SP from excitatory non adrenergic, non cholinergic nerves. The effects induced by capsaicin and exogenous acetylcholine, thus endogenous SP, involve tetrodotoxin-sensitive mechanisms, while those produced by exogenous SP are tetrodotoxin-resistant.

Modulatory effect of neuropeptide Y on acetylcholine-induced oedema and vasoconstriction in isolated perfused lungs of rabbit.

1. The modulatory role of neuropeptide Y (NPY) on pulmonary oedema induced by acetylcholine and capsaicin was investigated. The effects of NPY on the haemodynamic response to acetylcholine, phenylephrine and substance P were also investigated. 2. Isolated, ventilated, exsanguinated lungs of the rabbit were perfused with a constant flow of recirculating blood-free perfusate. The double/arterial/venous occlusion method was used to partition the total pressure gradient (delta Pt) into four components: the arterial gradient (delta Pa), the pre- and post-capillary gradients (respectively delta Pa' and delta Pv') and the venous pressure gradient (delta Pv). Endothelial permeability was evaluated by measuring the capillary filtration coefficient (Kf,c). 3. Acetylcholine (10(-8) M to 10(-4) M) and substance P (SP, 10(-10) M to 10(-6) M) induced a concentration-dependent increase in the Kf,c. Capsaicin (10(-4) M) and 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) (10(-4) M) also increased this parameter. NPY (10(-8) M) completely inhibited the effects of acetylcholine and capsaicin on the Kf,c, without preventing the effects of substance P and 5-HT. 4. Acetylcholine induced concentration-dependent vasoconstriction in the precapillary segment. The effect was inhibited by NPY and aspirin, an inhibitor of cyclo-oxygenase, while ketanserin, a 5-HT2 receptor antagonist, and SR140333, a new NK1 antagonist, had no protective effect. Phenylephrine increased delta Pa at high concentration, an effect also inhibited by NPY and aspirin. Substance P had no significant haemodynamic effect. When injected together with NPY, substance P (10(-6) M) induced a significant increase in the total pressure gradient. 5. It was concluded that NPY can protect the lung against acetylcholine- and capsaicin-induced oedemavia a prejunctional modulatory effect on the C-fibres. NPY also inhibits acetylcholine-evoked precapillary and phenylephrine-induced arterial vasoconstriction, probably by interfering with cyclo-oxygenase products synthesis.

Modulation of the acetylcholine- and substance P-induced pulmonary edema by calcitonin gene-related peptide in the rabbit.

The effects of calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) (6 x 10(-8) M) on hemodynamics and on pulmonary microvascular permeability were investigated in isolated, perfused rabbit lungs by measuring the arterial, capillary and venous pressures and the capillary filtration coefficient (Kf,c). CGRP was administered alone or in combination with capsaicin (10(-4) M), acetylcholine (ACh) (10(-11) M to 10(-7) M), substance P (SP) (10(-10) M to 10(-6) M) and serotonin (10(-4) M). The influence of a specific antagonist of CGRP receptors, CGRP8-37 (10(-8) M), on the pulmonary edema induced by these mediators was also considered. CGRP had no direct effect on the vascular pressures or on Kf,c. Capsaicin and serotonin induced an increase in Kf,c of 271 +/- 49% and 676 +/- 147% of base line, respectively. ACh and SP also increased the microvascular permeability, in proportion to the concentration. The effects of capsaicin, ACh and SP have been related to the activation of neurokinin NK1 receptors. Co-administration of CGRP with capsaicin and ACh enhanced the increase in Kf,c induced by these two drugs. By contrast, when co-injected with SP, CGRP inhibited the Kf,c increase induced by 10(-8) M and 10(-7) M of SP (P < .05) and significantly decreased the arterial and capillary pressures. CGRP also partly prevented the pulmonary edema induced by serotonin (P < .05). Pretreatment with CGRP8-37 partly prevented the effects of capsaicin and ACh on Kf,c but bestowed no protection against SP-induced pulmonary edema. These data suggest that CGRP is co-released with SP from the C-fibers upon the action of capsaicin and ACh in the rabbit lung. Because CGRP potentiated the pulmonary edema induced in capsaicin and ACh, but decreased the effects of SP, we hypothesize that CGRP exerts a positive retro-control on the release of neuropeptides by these fibers but can attenuate their effects on the target cells.